PART 3

Life from the River, follows the flow of the Miȼ̓qaqas ʔakinmit̓uq / Columbia River from Revelstoke to Nakusp, Fauquier, Castlegar and Trail. The Columbia River is recognized for it’s recreational pursuits, attracting both local residents and visitors. Its expansive waters provide ideal conditions for activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and fishing.

UPPER ARROW LAKE

The Columbia River flows south of Revelstoke through the valley, bordered by the Selkirk and Monashee mountains, leading to Shelter Bay/Galena Bay and eventually reaching the Arrow Lakes – a long, narrow reservoirs. Upper Arrow Lake, the initial section, extends to Nakusp, where the river widens considerably. Located on the west shore of Upper Arrow Lake, Nakusp overlooks a calm, lake-like stretch of water formed as part of the BC Hydro reservoir system.

NAKUSP | ¢aǂnu ʔakuq̓nuk

Nakusp stands out for its easy access to soothing hot springs like Nakusp Hot Springs, Campground & Chalet and Halcyon Hot Springs Resort & Spa. These world-class thermal waters are a true magnet for those seeking relaxation and wellness, thanks to their rich minerals. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the area offers an unbeatable, tranquil retreat where you can fully recharge in nature’s embrace.

Nakusp’s Waterfront Trail offers a serene setting along the shores of the Arrow Lakes, inviting visitors to enjoy tranquil walks amid stunning mountain and forest scenery. This well-maintained path provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and appreciate the area’s natural beauty, making it a distinctive feature for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience.

LOWER ARROW LAKE

The construction of the Hugh Keenleyside Dam near Castlegar, as part of the Columbia River development, has had significant social, cultural, and economic impacts on Indigenous communities in the region, including the Sinixt and Ktunaxa peoples. The resulting flooding from the Arrow Lakes Dam led to the loss of ancestral villages, hunting grounds, agricultural lands, and the displacement of communities. The changes to river ecosystems have also affected traditional fishing sites and the availability of important species such as salmon, while the submergence of sacred sites has disrupted cultural traditions and the transmission of knowledge.

The Columbia River Treaty Heritage Project aims to establish a touring route within the Columbia River Treaty Basin. This project will connect key locations throughout the Basin, where visitors can learn about the impacts and losses experienced by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities because of the Treaty’s implementation through thoughtfully curated, place-based stories.

CASTLEGAR | Kik̓siⱡuk

Castlegar is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a wide array of activities set against stunning natural scenery. From watersports and biking to hiking, climbing, and golf, the area offers something for everyone seeking adventure. The river’s broad, calm waters provide an ideal setting for an enjoyable paddling experience, suitable for both newcomers and seasoned explorers.

Experience the tranquility of paddling on Miȼ̓qaqas ʔakinmit̓uq (the Columbia River), where you may observe the remarkable wiyaǂ (sturgeon) in their native environment. These white sturgeons are recognized as one of Canada’s largest freshwater fish species, with life spans exceeding 100 years (and can reach up to 3-metres/10-feet long). The best places to view these incredible creatures is along the Columbia River shoreline: the Castlegar’s Millennium Walkway, Pass Creek Regional Park, and the Robson Boat Ramp Regional Park in May-June.  

The Columbia River and the Kootenay River converge in Castlegar, forming a notable geographical and historical landmark in the region. Originating near Canal Flats, the Kⱡantawsanmituk / Kootenay River. follows a distinctive route – travelling south into the United States through Montana and Idaho, then returning north into Canada near Creston. It passes through Kootenay Lake, emerges at Nelson, and ultimately joins the Columbia River at Castlegar.

ChillyBilly Sportfishing Charters – Experience professional drift boat fishing tours along the Columbia River in Castlegar. Renowned for exceptional fly-fishing and robust Rainbow Trout, the Columbia’s pristine, cold waters cultivate one of North America’s premier fisheries. Enjoy an unmatched angling experience in a thriving, scenic environment.

Endless Adventures Inc. – Experience the unique opportunity to observe sturgeon in their natural habitat while stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on the clear waters of the Columbia River near Castlegar, BC. With professional guidance, participants receive instruction in SUP techniques before embarking on a guided tour to explore the river and view these remarkable prehistoric fish.

Katchem Fly Fishing – Discover the remarkable fishing opportunities available year-round in the stunning West Kootenay area of British Columbia. The Upper Columbia River (near Castlegar & Trail) offers an exceptional fishery, renowned for its vigorous Rainbow Trout and impressive river system.

Mountain Valley Sports Fishing & Tours – Exceptional fly-fishing opportunities on the Columbia River with Mountain Valley Sports Fishing & Tours. As the region’s first specialized fly-fishing company, established in the early 1990s, they take pride in their expertise and heritage in southern BC. Enjoy exciting fishing experiences throughout the season, with Rainbow Trout as their primary focus due to their abundance in these waters.

Experience the unspoiled beauty of the river between Castlegar and Waneta, BC. Mountain Valley Sportfishing Charters provides guided float tours from Scotties Marina in Castlegar to Waterloo (renamed by the local Doukhobors as Brilliant) and from Sprout’s Landing in Castlegar to Trail. These excursions offer visitors an impressive perspective on the scale and grandeur of the areas’s rivers.

TRAIL

Trail seamlessly blends rich history, scenic natural landscapes, diverse culinary experiences, and vibrant entertainment options. Enjoy mild weather, stunning views of the Columbia River and Monashee Mountains, explore the city’s heritage as the ‘Home of Champions,’ attend live sports events, and experience performances by local artists.

St. Mary Angler Fly Shop – Experience fly-fishing on the upper Columbia River with their custom-built 16-foot jet boat, designed to navigate both shallow and deep waters efficiently. Explore four prime fishing locations: Castlegar, Genelle, Trail, and south of Trail to the US border.

The Columbia River flows south into the United States at the Waneta Border Crossing, where the Waneta Dam has played a vital role in supporting Trail’s smelter operations since 1954. Originally constructed by Cominco (now Teck Resources), the dam represents the last Canadian hydroelectric facility on the river. In 2018, ownership was transferred to BC Hydro and Columbia Power Corporation, demonstrating its continued importance to this area.

Learn more: Part 1 – Canal Flats to Radium Hot Springs and Part 2 – Golden to Revelstoke.