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Experience the West Kootenays
The traditional route heading east from Revelstoke is along the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 to Golden (see pg 59). 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 the calming effect of water, you’ll love this route!
The road forks as you depart Galena Bay. Hwy 23 heads south to the luxury of Halcyon Hot Springs. Open year-round, your worries will melt away while you drink in the incredible view of the Arrow Lakes and Monashee Mountains. With its quaint village-like atmosphere, the welcoming philosophy here is simple. 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 take a dip in the lake. halcyon-hotsprings. com
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30 minutes south, and flanked by the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges, Nakusp is another great place to rejuvenate both the body and mind. Soak in hot springs. Relax at a spa. Lounge on the beach or hike among the cedars.
Alternatively, scenic Hwy 31 from Galena Bay runs southeast, following the shores of Kootenay and Trout lakes. A stroll down Front Street in Kaslo will bring you to the majestic SS Moyie, one of the last great sternwheelers. It operated on Kootenay Lake for 59 years. As enchanting music wafts over the water, the Kaslo Jazz Etc Summer Festival offers family fun. It runs from Aug 2-4, 2019. Reuters calls it one of “the Top 10 places to enjoy outdoor summer music.”
Continuing on, you will need to determine if you want to head southwest to Nelson or southeast to Creston. Nelson is an enchanting city famous for its heritage. The movie ‘Roxanne’, starring Steve Martin and Daryl Hannah was filmed here.
The first leg of your journey to Creston begins at Balfour, a serene community that’s home to the Kootenay Lake ferry. Trip Advisor rates this FREE ferry ride (35 min, the world’s longest) with 5 Stars! It ends near the artisan’s enclave of Crawford Bay.
Experience the laid-back charm of West Kootenays. You will leave with a lifetime of great memories!
