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March 20, 2025

Where Sun Meets Sand - Invermere on the Lake

The beauty of Invermere is renowned for its inviting beaches and charming downtown. Dive into the warmth of Lake Windermere at the three accessible public beach parks inviting you to enjoy the ultimate relaxation. Experience vibrant summers in Invermere-on-the-Lake with unmatched paddling and delightful beach days. Discover Invermere’s downtown, a treasure trove of distinctive local art galleries, shops and boutiques, and charming eateries.

Looking out onto the Columbia River Wetlands, photo by Mitch Winton

Nestled between the renowned Canadian Rockies to the east and the towering Purcells to the west, lies the majestic Invermere community. Sitting at the heart of the breathtaking Columbia Valley, it serves as one of the gateways to Kootenay Rockies eastern borders, and the Rainforest to Rockies route. Enveloped by natural wonders, it’s a short drive away from Radium Hot Springs, Panorama Mountain Village, Fairmont Hot Springs, Columbia Lake/Canal Flats and tranquil Windermere.

BEACHES – LAKE WINDERMERE

At James Chabot Provincial Park, maximize your summer by setting up camp and luxuriating in the abundance of amenities. Come prepared with your beach chairs, sunscreen, and a good book and let tranquility wash over you. Feel the call of Lake Windermere? Embrace adventure on your paddling device. The beach lends itself to a diverse group of visitors, with a playground, an interpretive boardwalk, soothing shady areas, and a competitive volleyball court. Whether you’re a family, a group of friends, or a solo wanderer craving a cool-down.

Stocked with a myriad of engaging activities, such as the Rotary Splash Park, an inviting playground, and a thrilling water slide dock, it’s a haven for family fun at Kinsmen Beach. Craving a paddle across Lake Windermere? Our convenient Columbia River Paddle’s rental kiosk is stationed right at Kinsmen Beach. Here, we provide easy access to all your paddle boarding, kayaking, and playful floaty toys needs.

Beach action & paddling near Kinsmen Beach, photo by Mitch Winton

Uncover the charm of Windermere Beach on Lake Windermere. With its floating dock, picnic tables, and expansive grassy zone, this beach invites you with open arms. Ideal for those who crave a personal touch to their outdoor ventures and some refreshing splash into the water. Arrive with your paddle board, kayak, or canoe to navigate the lake’s beauty, or simply bring your noodles for a relaxing float.

SUP-boarding on Lake Windermere, photo by Mitch Winton

Adventures with Columbia River Paddle include canoeing, kayaking, and SUP-boarding – all set in the magnificent backdrop of the Columbia River Valley. Their high-end fleet of canoes, kayaks, and SUPs are modern, sturdy, and user-friendly, guaranteeing an effortless paddling experience. DIY paddles as well as guided tours are available.

Guided paddle with Columbia River Paddle, photo by Mitch Winton

Experience the thrill of Lake Windermere like never before with Pete’s Marina. They provide exciting boat & jet ski rentals, but also ensure top-tier boat repair & maintenance services.  

BIKING & HIKING

The Hoodoos Trail, located just outside Fairmont Hot Springs. With each step uphill, prepare to be graced by a panoramic spectacle at the top, which boasts stunning outlooks of Columbia River, Dutch Creek River and Columbia Lake. Rest assured; your efforts are rewarded as the rest of the hike is an easy walk. Trek the trail in the refreshing hours of the summer morning, before the day’s heat rolls in, for the most optimal experience.

Aerial view of the Hoodoo Trail Summit, photo by Mitch Winton

It’s a steep climb from Mount Swansea’s upper parking lot. The trail’s challenging switchbacks propel you up for a breathtaking 700-meter ascent to Mount Swansea’s peak. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring panorama of Invermere, Lake Windermere, the majestic Purcell Mountains, and the expansive Columbia Valley.

View the Purcells mountains & Invermere from Mt. Swansea, photo by Heidi Korven

Take on The Johnson, an invigorating 9.5-km hiking route in Invermere, nestled in a dense maze of hiking and mountain bike trails near the Lillian Lake Recreation Site. Engulfed in lush forests, this hike promises a rollercoaster of ascents and descents leading to a spectacular viewpoint with panoramic views of the Columbia Valley. 

Experience the majesty of the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail. Spanning from Invermere to Fairmont Hot Springs, this path is expertly paved and boasts sweeping views of serene lakes and grand mountains. Navigate with confidence using our detailed guide for each section of the journey and parking areas.

Markin-Machail Westside Legacy Trail, photo by Mitch Winton

The natural beauty of Wilmer Wetlands Trail, a gem nestled on the outskirts of Invermere. This captivating hike offers the perfect blend of tranquility and scenery if you appreciate the allure of the Columbia River Wetlands. Experience soul-stirring views of the wetlands and enjoy the fantastic opportunities for wildlife sightings along the way.

GOLFING

With an exceptional range of over a dozen premium courses, be prepared to find your new ultimate golf destination. The Columbia Valley Golf Trail, a vivid blend of captivating scenery, superior quality, and a diversity of experiences – all nestled within a compact 25-minute drive, has earned its reputation as a golfer’s paradise. Choose from quaint to world-renowned courses offering stunning views of the valley.

Eagle Ranch Golf Course in Inveremere, photo by Evan Schiller

SHOPPING | ARTS & CULTURE

Experience the charm of Invermere’s Main Street! It’s an alluring locale all year round, boasting independently owned boutiques, shops, and captivating art galleries instead of generic big box stores. Indulge in a unique shopping adventure.

The Invermere Farmers and Artists’ Market, in the heart of downtown Invermere, happens every Saturday, from mid-June to the end of September.  They proudly demonstrate their motto of ‘Make it, Bake it, Grow it, Raise it’. Join them and witness the magic of homegrown and homemade!

Walkable downtown Invermere with the Farmer & Artists’ Market, photo by Scott Rowed

SIP & SAVOUR

Experience the dynamic flavours of locally brewed beers and handcrafted spirits in Invermere. Arrowhead Brewing invites you to experience their exquisite range of six permanent beers. Immerse yourself in a tasting adventure with their ever-changing seasonal taps. The ’50s Gastown-themed taproom is the perfect place to relax, savour a pint, and indulge in delightful snack selections.

Experience Invermere’s extraordinary restaurants, bistros, and diners and get ready to elevate your taste buds to new heights. With an abundance of dining options in a warm and welcoming setting, your gastronomic adventure of a lifetime awaits you here.

The exquisite flavours of Taynton Bay Distillery at their Tasting Room is walking distance to Lake Windermere and the Kinsmen Beach. As a testament to their commitment to local sourcing, their  spirits are expertly crafted from wheat harvested just 10-km from the distillery.

Delicious cocktails at Taynton Bay Spirits, photo by Mitch Winton

Places to stay in Invermere & the Columbia Valley.

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