The Kootenay Rockies region in the southeast corner of British Columbia, Canada is epically known as BC’s Mountain Playground. And, we offer some of the best road trips in Canada.
#1 – Unwind along the Hot Springs Route
Wedged into the rocky and remote creases of these stunning mountains are natural hot springs that soothe, inspire and rejuvenate. Drive along quiet, tree-lined lakeshores where wonderful resorts, natural caves and mountainous settings leave a lasting impression. Venture along this route and enjoy the therapeutic warm, mineral rich water at some of the most enticing natural hot springs in the province.
#2 – Ski/Ride the Powder Highway
British Columbia’s Kootenay Rockies is home to the POWDER HIGHWAY®, where deep snow, funky towns, and adventure-packed ski resorts in North America exist. Throw in some of the world’s most renowned heli-skiing and cat-skiing operations, as well as highly-coveted backcountry lodges and this area of BC stands out as one of the premier ski destinations.
#3 – Explore the Rainforest to Rockies Routes
Via Highway 1 (The Trans-Canada) – Embark on a captivating road trip that takes you from the Pacific Ocean to the Canadian Rockies. Travel along the TransCanada Highway 1 through cities and towns, alongside lakes and forests, and witness BC’s highlights and highest peaks.
Via Highway 3 (The Crowsnest) – Follow a road less travelled that connects the forest-fringed city of Vancouver to the rugged mountain town of Fernie. The scenic drive crosses plunging canyons, arid desert and wine country before reaching the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Venture down this gem of a route to connect with Indigenous cultures, sample farm-to-table cuisine and get a glimpse of fascinating BC history – all set against incredible nature-scapes.
#4 – Embrace the Vibrant Fall Colours
Autumn is such a magical season and it carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons. The Kootenay Rockies region is famous for its beautiful falls. Discover the one of a kind colourful scenes. Each community features a popular area that showcases fall colours.
#5 – Follow the Scenic West Koot Route
Quiet roads that twist through the heart of the British Columbia wilderness. Dense forests that yield to rising rock and glacier-scoured summits where only the bravest mountaineers have ventured. A place to be respected and admired. Stunning backcountry beauty – around every corner on the West Koot Route – is the norm. Soak in it. Stop for a hike, paddle a perfect lake, fling a fly in a trout-filled stream and find your little patch of paradise in the West Kootenays.
#6 – Sip & Savour the Kootenay Ale Trails
Explore British Columbia’s bounty of craft beer with the BC Ale Trail. Explore stouts and snow-capped peaks, brown ales and beaches, or bikes and hikes that lead to a tasting room. The suggested self-guided tours showcase the rich and vibrant craft beer scene.
In addition to these six road trip, check out details about these additional Kootenay Road Trips!
