Experience the West Kootenays

The traditional route east from Revelstoke is along the Trans Canada Hwy 1 to Golden (pg 57 of the 2018 edition of Experience the Mountain Parks). To take a path less travelled, follow the scenic Hwy 23 south towards Nelson and the free ferry across Upper Arrow Lake. This waterway is part of the Columbia River System, so if you like water this may be perfect.

The road forks as you depart Galena Bay. Hwy 23 heads south to the luxury of Halcyon Hot Springs. Open year-round, here you can soak your worries away while soaking up the incredible view of the Arrow Lakes and Monashee Mountains. With its quaint village-like atmosphere, Halcyon’s welcoming philosophy is that healing waters should be shared with the world. A great spot even on a hot summer’s day when you can utilize the mineral swimming pool on the lower deck or even take a dip in the lake. halcyon-hotsprings. com

30 minutes south, and flanked by the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges, Nakusp is another great place for rejuvenating body and mind, soaking in hot springs, relaxing at a spa, lounging on the beach, or hiking among the cedars.

Alternatively, scenic Hwy 31 from Galena Bay runs southeast following the shores of Kootenay and Trout Lakes, to Balfour. A stroll down Front Street in Kaslo will bring you to the majestic SS Moyie, one of the last great sternwheelers that operated on Kootenay Lake. As enchanting music wafts over the water, the Kaslo Jazz Etc Summer Music Festival offers family fun Aug 3-5, 2018. REUTERS calls it one of “the Top 10 places to enjoy outdoor summer music.”

Continuing on, you’ll need to decide if you want to head southwest to Nelson or southeast to Creston. Nelson is notorious for its charm while the first leg of your journey to Creston begins at Balfour, on the world’s longest (35 min) FREE ferry ride which ends near the artisan’s enclave of Crawford Bay.

Experience the laid back charm of West Kootenays. You will leave with a lifetime of memories!