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March 12, 2024

Spring to It: Early Season Activities To Do in the Kootenays

Experience some of the best activities to do in the Kootenays this spring! Say goodbye to hibernation and indulge in our exquisite craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, and wineries. Don’t forget to unwind at our rejuvenating natural hot springs after each day’s adventure. Discover a variety of snow-free activities to make your trip unforgettable.

Zuckerberg Island Hertitage Park in Castlegar; photo by MItch Winton

COLUMBIA VALLEY GOLF TRAIL

The Columbia Valley Golf Trail is the group of 10 golf courses in the Columbia Valley of British Columbia, Canada. The Columbia Valley is nestled between the beautiful Rocky and Purcell Mountain ranges and is home to the communities of Spur Valley, Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Windermere, and Fairmont Hot Springs.

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The Springs at Radium Hot Springs; photo by Mitch Winton

GYRO PARK IN TRAIL

Situated along the Columbia River, this park offers stunning views of the river valley and a variety of amenities to cater to all. A top choice for families, gatherings, weddings, events, or simply enjoying a beautiful day outdoors.

Discover the stunning 1.4-km out-and-back Columbia River Skywalk Trail. This route is perfect for leisurely drives and walks, offering a peaceful escape. Fun Fact: The bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges of its kind in North America at 305-metres (1,000 ft.) landing to landing.

FORT STEELE HERITAGE TOWN

Fort Steele, near Cranbrook, thrives year-round! Experience an array of new animal breeds, from majestic Clydesdales to heritage livestock. Join them (the Friends of Fort Steele) in building a sustainable future through conservation, partnerships, and an immersive Fort Steele journey.

A young family visits the Clydesdale horses at Fort Steele Hertage Town; photo by Kari Medig

HOODOO TRAIL

Venture down the Hwy 93/95, south of Fairmont Hot Springs – witness the jaw-dropping spectacle of the Hoodoos, a staple landmark within the ever-breathtaking Columbia Valley. You can stand beneath in awe and reward yourself with a hike to the summit. This straightforward, family-friendly adventure offers unparalleled perspectives of the Columbia River Valley coupled with the majestic vista vies of Purcell and Rocky Mountains.

Hoodoo Summit; photo by Chris Wheeler

KASLO RIVER TRAIL

Discover the enchanting Kaslo River trail, where mossy banks and vibrant bridges await. Let the audio tour lead you on a captivating journey of exploration along the lively Kaslo River with bright bridges and hidden sculptures, all unveiled to capture your curiosity.

Exploring the Kalso River Trail and the Hidden Sculptures; photo by Mitch Winton

KOOTENAY HOT SPRINGS ROAD TRIP

Embark on an adventure alongside tranquil, tree-canopied lakeshores brimming with magnificent resorts, mystical caves, and dramatic mountain landscapes that will etch unforgettable memories. Assertively tread this pathway and lavish in the healing warmth of the mineral-rich waters found at British Columbia’s most tantalizing natural hot spring pools. Buckle up for an esteemed tour spanning a grand 800-km (500-mi) – prepare to be rejuvenated.

Halcyon Hot Springs Resort Pools; photo by Mitch Winton

KOOTENAY NATIONAL PARK – MARBLE CANYON

Prepare to be awe-inspired by Marble Canyon’s breathtaking 600-metre long gorge within Kootenay National Park. Learn how nature sculpted this stunning masterpiece over 10,000 years.

KOOTENAY WINERIES

The family-owned Kootenay wineries stand strong with tradition spanning over two decades. They have been nurturing grapes in the microclimates of our Kootenay valleys since 1995. They cultivate a variety of wines in Creston, Nakusp/Slocan Valley and Trail like Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Maréchal Foch (to name a few). During the spring to fall season, they offer tours, tastings and culinary delights.

Enjoying the beauty of the vineyard at Baillie-Grohman in Creston; photo by Kari Medig

NORTHSTAR RAILS TO TRAILS

The Northstar Rails to Trails stretches over 28-km, one-way (17-mi) and links the cities of Kimberley and Cranbrook. The trail is nestled between the Purcell Mountains and the Rocky Mountain Trench in southeastern British Columbia. The area is naturally beautiful surrounded by mountains dotted with forests and grasslands, broken up by lakes and rivers.

Hiking and biking the Northstar Rails-to-Trails near Kimberley; photo by Mitch Winton

ZUCKERBERG ISLAND HERITAGE PARK

Take a walk around Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park in Castlegar and discover the unique Columbia River Valley history. Almost 200 years ago, in 1800, David Thompson canoed down the Columbia River past the island, and 60 years ago, Alexander Zuckerberg built his unique Russian Orthodox Chapel House.

Hiking along the Columbia River shore in Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park; photo by Mitch Winton

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