Kootenay RocKies - KootenayBrochures.ca

9
27
CANADA
BC
R
Bo
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Alberta
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bo
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Elk
Koo
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mi
18
km
29
BC
m 20 i
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mi
16 km 10 mi
i
5 6 k m 3 5 mi
ea
25 m i
40 km
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21 km1 3 m
26 m
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42 k
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16
mi
22
mi
32 k
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1 4 k m 9 mi
20
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5 km
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47 m
76 k
m
6
58 k m 3
km
18
m
i
10 km 6 mi
11
elt L
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Roo
mi
12
km
20
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mi
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19
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km
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30
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ad
i
55 m
the
93
Highway Reports
Year-round & a free service.
DriveBC.ca
35
83
Polson
93
Visit DriveBC.ca for real time info.
1-800-550-4997
Missoula
This map of the Kootenay Rockies region is intended as a locator map only and is designed to be
used in conjunction with the BC Road Map and Parks Guide available at Visitor Centres.
www.kumr.ca
Traditional value, modern convenience, friendly service
Single queen, double queen or king rooms
INN
Grand
Restaurant, Lounge & Gift Shop
Junction
41 Newly Renovated Rooms
with Air Conditioning
CRANBROOK, B.C.
Adjoining rooms, suites, wheelchair accessible units
Where we go that extra mile for you …
Enjoy your stay at the Model A
1908 Cranbrook St N 1.888.489.4600
TRAINS DELUXE
The Canadian Museum
of RAIL TRAVEL
Enjoy the restaurant
& deck for breakfast,
lunch & dinner.
Cranbrook, BC
National Heritage Designation - 2011
Superb Workmanship from the Past
New RV Park in a
lovely park setting.
1218 Canyon St (Hwy 3) | 1.800.665.9904 | DowntownerCreston.com | HelloBC.com
1-877-999-2929 • www.kimberleycampground.com
Kimberley’s Underground Mining Railway
CLEAN • QUIET • COMFORTABLE
E
M O D L “ A”
Stay a day or stay a week; it’s up to you!
Kellogg
Full-service RV sites • Tenting • Internet access
Comfortable, clean & quiet • New putting course
• Roosville & Kingsgate (Cranbrook) - open 24 hours
• Rykerts (Creston) - open 7 am to 11 pm (summer)
• Waneta (Trail) & Midway (Okanagan) - open 9 am - 5 pm
• Paterson (Rossland) & Oroville (Osoyoos) - open 24 hours
• Carson (Grand Forks), Cascade (Christina Lake) & Nelway (Nelson) - open 8 am to midnight
• Carway (Alberta) - open 7 am to 11 pm
• Chief Mountain (Alberta) - open 7 am to 10 pm (summer)
Be prepared — At the Canadian/US border, be sure to have a passport or the equivalent.
For complete info, visit Travel.state.gov or CBSA.gc.ca; 1-800-461-9999
Pablo
Reservoir
Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park
1-800-666-0324 • www.GolfCastlegar.com • [email protected]
89
Wallace
1-800-668-1171
While in Kimberley BC relax in the comfort
of an elegant suite at Mountain Spirit Resort.
East Glacier Park
Fla
km
90
70
HotNaturally.com
89
ork
Pinehurst
Great Falls
F
le
Thompson Falls
i
d
id
Kellogg
m
12
km
2
Ferry Service
Flathead L
70 Cave & Pools
Hot Springs,
15
3 2 km 20 mi
Coeur d’ Alene
2
49
www.mountainspiritresort.ca | 1.877.432.6006
es
er
vo
ir
83
93
28
or
se
R
Bigfork
R
Hayden L
89 20 km 12 mi
Border Crossings
Lake Mary
Ronan
KOOTENAY App
2
Browning
M
Flathead R
82
1 0 km 6 m i
Somers
i
KootRock
35
93
0m
200
Hu
ng
ar
yH
35
m1
Noxon
Reservoir
Hubbart
Reservoir
206
16 k
Cabinet Gorge
Reservoir
t
Bitterroo
25
R
i
mi
La Salle
21 km 13 mi
0m
90
Salt Lake City
Provo
r
ate
llw
m1
14
21 k m 13 mi
90
Hayden
Book Today:
1.800.663.4979
fairmonthotsprings.com
Lower Two
Medicine L
5 km 3 m i
Sti
16 k
4 km
2 mi
56
200
Columbia
Falls
2
Escape your everyday, just 1.5
hours south of the Trans-Canada
Highway, on Highway 93/95.
Port of Del Bonita
89
St Mary L
West Glacier
40
2
Please
note: You may begin driving tours
from any Kalispell
Ashley L
point along the routes. The route itineraries on the
nt Valle F
ish
reverse sidesa arey suggestions.
er
R
Little
Bitterroot L
2
6k
Stop at our Visitor Centres
located
throughout
the
m9
1m
i
Thompson Lks
region and stay connected with:
8 km 5 mi
53
41
Tally L
Fisher R
31 k
i
m 19 m
Post
Falls
MONTANA
Coutts
Duck L
Lake McDonald
Whitefish
Del Bonita
Saint Mary
3 mi
km 5 un Road
85 to the S
ng
93
mi
Bull L
i
Spokane
290
otenai R
9m
90
n
oka e R
Sp
USA
89
Logging L
k
113
68
km
54
13 km 8 mi
Rathdrum 95
17
Lower
Lake Sherburne St Mary L
m7
0m
i
9
Port of
Chief
Mountain
Babb
Quartz L
km
Newman L
2
L
le
el
Ko
km 3
28
Hauser L
34 km 21 mi
Libby
63
Davenport
24 km 15 mi
mi 41
Long L
R
R
lk
International
Peace Park
Canada
Carway
Experience Canada’s
largest natural mineral
hot springs!
Milk in the Fairmont Hot Springs
Stay
River
Resort Mountain Lodge and
enjoy free access to the famous
natural hot springs.
62
Chief
Mountain
Bowman L
i
Reardan
2 1 k m 13 m i
56
2
95
Ol
dm
an
Elk R
R
ll
Bu
A l berta
16 m
i
mi
Ko
oca
nus
a
Eureka
i
Waterton-Glacier
Kinta L
ob
ac
co
R
La
ke
7m
i
mi
1
ar
km
7
Salmo R
15 k
m
yR
wford Bay
Cro
34
Salmo R
20
26 km
1
M
mi
49
79 k
m
Ko km 12
ote mi
nay
R
6 mi
Columbi
aR
7k
m
St
57
km
Hi
o
R
sha
n
km 4 i
3m
70
10 k m
6 mi
9 mi
2
Bea
t
Shusw
ap R
Mabel L
Wha
t
43 k m 2
USA
17 m
2
20
231
Long
Lake
i
22 m
35 km
13 km 8 mi
85
m
32 k
395
90
28
Casper
29
mi
Pend Or
eill
eR
i
8m
6 km
4 mi
33
Flathead
Akamina-Kishinena
Waterton L
ad
the
Fla
km
mi
47
k
m 32
mi
k
51
Canada
21 km 1 3 m
Waterton
Whitefish L
mi
Newport
Priest River
4
Kiowa
IDAHO
2
292
8 km 5 mi
37
10
Outlet Bay
10 km 6 mi
5
6
k
35
26 km 16 mi 20
Magrath
Waterton
Reservoir
eR
Mountain
Time
An oasis of well-being.
Raymond
St Mary
Reservoir
stl
Pacific
Time
57
211
5
2
R
2:00
36
Stand Off
5
93
1:00
95
Sandpoint
Valley
Bonners
Ferry
27
mi
m
27 k
Usk
km
45 km 2
Roosville
Yaak R
2
Fort
Macleod
Cardston
Grasmere
i
6m
39
mi
12
Kikomun Creek
m1
Cusick
km
26
Pen rei
dO
44
3
32 k
Elko
3
Lethbridge
Pincher
Creek
ad
Flathe
m9
20
Corbin
R
15 k
Oldman River
Reservoir
mi
m
wa
30 km 19 m
i
Coleman
42 Blairmore
km 2
Frank
6
ig
W
11
m
55
k
Sh
usw
a
L
Ma
ra
mi
24
km
39
84 mi
5 km
3
Ca
Lake
Koocanusa
T
R
m
Goa
tR
Anst
e
yA
rm
Seym
9 mi
Okanagan L
46 km 2
13
Crowsnest
E
21 km 13 mi
anai
Koot
Ne
spe
le
2m
i
m
4k
i
2m
3
Galloway
Jaffray
Gilnockie
2
mi
ill
eR
Lamb
Creek
20
mi
L
Mud L
60 km 37 mi
34
mi
95 Yahk
Moyie R
mi
11
1 7 k m 11
94
Priest L
23 mi
37 km
km
10 km 6 m i
km
18
95 6 km 16 mi
2
Nordman
95 km 59 mi
mi
41 km 25
71 km 4 4 m i
an
55
Kingsgate
1
Upper
Priest L
Taber
93
Eastport
25
785
Fernie
2 mi
36 km 2
13 k m
8 mi
Porthill
dm
Ol
Duck
Rykerts
e r ta
S
Moyie Lake
mi
S
Canada
BC
Wardner
k m 48
N
21
Keho L
1
km
19
mi
15
R
N
Mount Fernie
Wardner
Yahk
Erickson
Canyon
Lister
R
Hosmer
Norbury
Lake
78
I
Creston
35 km 22 mi
ay
m
25 k
te n
Fort Steele Heritage Town
3 95
3 38 km 2 3
mi
Claresholm
Rocky
Mountain
Forest
Reserve
Rocky
Mountain
Forest
Reserve
Fording R
ier R
Luss
Ko o
I
8 km i
5m
36
23
2
A lb
5 mi
A
Lake
A
3
Kitchener
ALBERTA
49 km 30 mi
Sparwood
95 93
i
42 m
68 km
Wynndel
Badger L
Nanton
Wasa Lake
Moyie
Sirdar
Sullivan L
20
77 km 48 mi
Ba
nk
s
R
S
te
km 4
43
T
Kootenay
T
m 4 3 mi
White R
hi
72
N
N
3A
43
Elkford
McGregor L
Vulcan
Chain Lks
hite R
Cranbrook
R
ie
oy
M
57 km 35 mi
N
W
L
U
U
70 k
Stagleap
Park
R
R
I
a
Columbi
O
Lake
O
Kianuko
27 km 17 mi
A
i
M
Kootenay
M
Boswell
High
River
R
16
km 533
27
East W
93 3
Jimsmith Lake
od
23
2A
Kananaskis
BRITISH
COLUMBIA
Brooks
San Francisco L
39 km 24 mi
23 km 14 mi
T
yR
1m
km 1
40
Premier Lake
Wycliffe
St Mary L
2
24
wo
Elk
Lakes
Top of
the World
27 k m
95A
L
o
alm
SS
an
22
Longview
Height of
the Rockies
Medicine Hat
Bow R
7
R
er R
18
R
K
5
Okano
g
ep
Bow R
Black
Diamond
17 km 10 mi
e
Sh
40
Whiteswan
Lake
Skookumchuck
Kimberley
Okotoks
Turner Valley
Pallis
Fairmont
Hot Springs
Pe
nd
Or
Anst
ey R
our
Arm
Perry R
A da
ms
L
mi
52
km
17 km 11 mi
Elbow-Sheep
Wildland
Kananaskis
Lks
Mexico City
1A
22X
56
MEXICO
mi
82
22
Miami
24
25
R
ert
Houston
62 km 39 mi
km
Peter
Lougheed
N
na
i
Windermere
U. S. A.
Los Angeles
41
U
ot e
m8m
Ko
13 k
L
mi James Chabot
Ta Ta Creek
Lockhart
Creek
9
36
31 km 19 mi
ll R
che
O
L
Dry Gulch
Riondel
m2
Si
R
Mi t
M
E
R
b
Al
Atlantic
Ocean
R
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Sinclair
Pass Radium
Hot Springs
Chicago
21
w
i
ay R
Bragg Creek
Spray L
Cross
Toronto
New York
Bo
8m
i
Barrier L
Kananaskis
Vermilion
Crossing
St Mary
Alpine
Pilot
Bay
San Francisco
Calgary
Spr
m
65
nR
34 km 21 mi
1
km
29
i
Salt Lake City
Strathmore
Mt Assiniboine
Coeur d’ Aleane L
430 Front Street | 250-353-7714 | KasloHotel.com
23 m
mi
km 66
107
Canal Flats
Crawford Bay
Pacific
Airdrie
Ocean
km
Y
pso
R
i
5
10
K
R
au
R
6
12
Ogden
NEVADA
37 km
Montreal
Minneapolis
mi
C
R
Invermere
Kaslo
Gray Creek
9
17
O
U
Tho
m
C
km
R
P
ay
Kootenay
Purcell
Wilderness
Conservancy
Sanca
25
Logan
CALIFORNIA
Cochrane
Ghost L
Canmore
m
6k i
4m
km
80
Banff
95 93
40 k
mi
41
[email protected]
21
17
m
Drumheller
Calgary
Seattle
106 km 69 mi
Spokane
Portland
72
Ghost R
Kootenay
Rockies
Mountain
Time
Ymir
48 km 30 mi
63
km
22 km 1 3 mi
89
km
en
Radium Hot Springs
I
m
Ar
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Pend O
395
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ka
15
mi
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26
47
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Village of
2:00
Metaline
Falls
31
Colville
25
25
Wilbur
22
1A
93
95
USA
25
2
WYOMING
Pocatello
Twin Falls
Ko
66
Harrogate
i
Sloca
10 m
i
21
174
26
10
6 km
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m
90
Idaho Falls
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231
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95
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Procter
251
i
Kettle Falls
Billings
Leahy
24
Luxury accommodation,
fine food at aChico
fair price...
Reno
all with a million dollar view!
5
Bring in this map for a
80
Carson
15% discount on lodging.
City
94
17 93
Boise
199
e you
“WherRedding
want to be!”
0k
10
mi
i
85
Grand Coulee
Parson
R
E
MONTANA
Butte
28
km
S
3m
87
Helena
R
174 15
IDAHO
97
Kokanee Creek
mi
21
km
Harrop
8m
WASHINGTON
90
173
20
Medford
S
17
395
101
R
OREGON
I N
bia
lum
Co
95
Eugene
T A
37
Great Falls
90
ia
Johnsons
Landing
Kootenay
Balfour Bay
3 6
Rosebud L
d D'Oreille
Pen
R
85
93
mb
Argenta
Ione
R
Sanpoil
97
Lake Ghelan
46
15
2
89
M
1.800.661.8007 OR 250.265.3666
www.selkirkinn-nakusp.com
87
Salem
5
59
km
2
89
Lewiston
Portland
20
spacious new &
recently reconditioned units
• Single & deluxe rooms with
phone, fridge & cable TV with
sports, movie & super channels
• Handicap unit & meeting room
• Air conditioning, wireless internet &
courtesy coffee; CAA / AAA approved
Kalispell
Missoula
NakuspHotSprings.com
• 39
5
2
20
95
Vancouver
Lake
Minnewanka
on the Lake
m 28 mi
20
Spokane
82
Beaver
Creek
25
mi
lv
Co
5
ay
Halfw
7
97
Montrose
Metaline
93
395
84
1-866-999-4528
20
km
Return.
26
4
de
R
Tiger
Swift Current
107 k
m 6 7 mi
Yakima
Pools open year-round
Campground open
May to mid-Oct
3
ail
Meadow Creek
Salmo
i
Fruitvale
3B
4
12 6 k m 7 8 m i
Olympia
Refresh.
395
90
m
53
2
97 d' Alene
Coeur
90
Trail
7k
34 k m 2 1 m
Moose Jaw
Sa
np
oil R
2
2
halcyon-hotsprings.com
395
ca
9
KOOTENAY
ROCKIES
2
Panorama
Mountain Village
mi
20
20
WASHINGTON
Lethbridge
m
13 k
R
bia
31
97
Seattle
R
Rossland/Trail
25
Fernie
3
SK
Medicine
Hat
2
lum
Co
ttle
8 mi
5
22
20
25
km
Saskatoon
7
ALBERTA
Calgary
Elkford
Kaslo
Sparwood
Kimberley
395 25
101
Invermere
95 93
3
1.888.689.4699
Radium
97
Victoria
68Km soUth
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on arroW laKE
Nakusp
6
Tonasket
93
Nelson 3A
Penticton
Castlegar 6 Cranbrook
Creston
3
km
South Slocan
Shoreacres
Glade
Champion
Lakes
4mi
i
4m
Northport
Ke
Ancient HeAling
WAters AWAit!
Near Nakusp Hot Springs, Halcyon Hot Springs &
Nakusp Golf Course, a short walk from Upper Arrow Lake
R
9
95
3B
mi
21
Golden
23
Kelowna
Vancouver
210 - 6 Ave West, NAKUSP BC
m 14 mi
45 km 2
Kamloops
Vernon
20
28 km 3
17 m
i
Rossland Warfield
97
Revelstoke
3
11
2
3k
t
Ke
5
5
N
R
tle
Revelstoke: 1925 Laforme Blvd
1.855.837.2043 RevelstokeBestWestern.com
U
0 mi
Oroville
97
eR
rd
e
Nelson West
Arm
Taghum
1 2 mi
mi
Grand
Forks Christina Lake
Boundary Falls
2 1 k m 1 3 mi
Carson
Kettle R
CascadeC a n a d a Paterson
Prince Albert
Waneta
Danville
Laurier
Boundary
U S A Frontier
3
m 1 Midway
16
een
O
Edmonton
ka
mil meen
200 Third St west
BRITISH
COLUMBIA
M
Regional Boundary
16 k
ach
Hot Springs
6
22
mi
Rock Creek
5 2 km 3 2 m i
Wilgress L
Greenwood
Kettle Valley
Bridesville
illm
Kokanee
31
Glacier Ainsworth
3A
Robson Thrums
26 km 16
m 17
Osoyoos
ert
Silverton
3A
Genelle
Nancy
Greene
Lake
28 k
3
mi
aL
Provincial & State Borders
lu
Pacific
Time
31A
Castlegar
9 mi
m2
in
Christ
5 5 km 3 4
Family Hotel in Canada 2012
SELKIRK INN
mi
Burrell R
97
46 k
Sandon
Winlaw
Vallican
3
Gladstone
Osoyoos L
Sp
Mirror Lake
Applegrove
Syringa
mi
Cathedral
ors
Co
Lost Ledge
Crescent
Valley
Jewel L
4 7 km 2 9
International Border
gH
Ott
33 m
i
95
Davis Creek
6
Slocan Park
Tugidnuit L
Oliver
53 km
11
8 km
Goat
Range
6
Lower Arrow L
Okanagan Falls
47 km 29 mi
Keremeos
Golf Courses
Great British Restaurant
& Pub with Patio
0
3
Ski Resorts
e Ac co mm odatio n
Down tow n Re ve ls tok
m2
1A
Spillimacheen
Valhalla
S
32 k
3A
mi
kin
Howser
New Denver
N
Kaleden
Campgrounds/RV Parks
33
aL
Skah
Princeton
Provincial Parks Without Camping
Daily Air Service
Penticton
1 4 k m 9 mi
National, Provincial & Wilderness Parks
McDonald
Creek
T
97
as
95 93
Slocan
I
Villages
Kic
1:00
La
Summit L
2 8 mi
Burton
6
Lake Louise
Edgewater
Rosebery
mi
35
Banff
93
Summit Lake
km
Fauquier
Edgewood
A
L
an
ag
7 mi
Naramata
Summerland
Towns
1 4 km
9 mi
Nakusp Hot Springs
Arrow Park
Needles
Granby
an
Ok
km 2
Cities
0
49 km 3
Okanagan
Mountain
43
Ferries
Relax.
6
Kelowna
4 mi
km 1
23
Golden
Kicking
Horse
Pass
16mi
Bugaboo
Nakusp
What
shan L
Gravel Roads
• Complimentary breakfast
• Outdoor hot tubs & pool, fitness centre & free wireless
• Minutes from historic downtown Revelstoke
Cherryville
N
Westbank
Peachland
Paved Roads
#6
R
U
Merritt
97C
Field
R
31
23
O
Seasonal Highways
3
Voted
h us
wap
Major Highways
3
1.800.991.4455
Shuswap
Falls
S
Winfield
Multi-lane Highways
PowderSprings.ca
Wood L
ead
Trout Lake
Bear L
M
Lake Country
International Selkirk Loop
Kalmalka L
erh
25 k m
Rocky
Mountain
Forest
Reserve
Brisco
Armstrong L
L
row
Ar
Hot Springs Route
97
Emerald L
Ott
Duncan L
Upper
Hwy 5A
54 km 34 m i
Sugar L
E
Mountains & Vineyards Route
Coldstream
L
Vernon Lumby
Waterton-Glacier Intl Peace Park
Beaton
Halcyon
Hot Springs
Monashee
E
Swan L
ow
Arr
40 km 2 5 mi
Rockies & Ranchlands Route
Silver
Star
n
A rm
Galena
Shelter
Bay
H
Armstrong
Spallumcheen
Silvery Slocan Route
mi
31
Golden Triangle Route
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Salmon Arm
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Kamloops
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Downtown, 57 Van Horne St S (Hwy 3/95)
Palace Sleeper “Omenee”
250-489-3918
Royal Alexandra Hall (1906)
(1906) - One of 24 luxurious
trainsdeluxe.com
[email protected] Centrepiece of new facilities
railway cars on display
Come Ride the Train!
Weekends in May & June
Daily from July 1 to Labour Day
Departures from the Downtown Station
11:00 am • 1:00 pm • 3:00 pm
Early Bird Special Fri & Sat 9:00 am
Kid’s Express Train Sun 10:00 am
Follow us on
Tour the Kootenay Rockies — British Columbia’s Mountain Playground
Spectacular rides
Grand Forks is located 20 km (12 mi) from Christina Lake at the junction
of two rivers. It’s proud of its mining and Doukhobor heritage, pristine
surroundings and outdoor opportunities. Continue west on the Crowsnest
Highway #3 and pass through many historical villages along the way, such as
Greenwood, Midway, Rock Creek and Bridesville. Craft shops, artist studios,
B&Bs, guest ranches and attractions dot the countryside. Greenwood is a
historic mining town with many remnants of days gone by. Visit the museum,
follow the art walk, shop for antiques and enjoy the hospitality. Points of
interest in Midway include the Kettle River Museum, the Entwined Trees Park
and the heritage Old Thomet Hotel built in 1900—now the Kettle River Inn.
Rock Creek, nestled in the Kettle Valley, was once the centre of the gold rush of
A grand loop drive or bicycle ride
takes you to two national parks, over
the Continental Divide and into some
great communities in Alberta, British
Columbia and Montana. Year-round,
experience a tremendous diversity of
scenery, wildlife and history. And during
the summer months, you have the option
of exploring the Going-to-the-Sun Road
in Glacier National Park (U.S.).
If you are a U.S. visitor travelling from the south, begin your tour in
Columbia Falls with a stop at Montana Coffee Traders for a cup of their
famous locally roasted coffee. Then travel on to Whitefish for a historical look
at the Great Northern Railway Depot or a pint at the Great Northern Brewery
in the quaint downtown. Heading north along Highway #93, pass through
the Flathead and Kootenai National Forests, Stillwater State Forest, then by two
beautiful lakes—Dickey and Murphy.
Nearing Canada, the community of Eureka in the Tobacco River Valley
offers wonderful walks by the river and Café Jax—stop for a delicious old-time
milkshake. Highway #93 continues across the U.S. / Canada border.
Once in Canada, drive through the Ktunaxa Nation Tobacco Plains Reserve.
You’ll cross the Elk River as it spills into Lake Koocanusa. The tiny community
of Elko is situated just east of Highway junction #3/#93. Travel northeast
on Highway #3 towards the city of Fernie—watch for Morrissey Road and
cross the bridge over the Elk River. A short interpretive forest walk takes you
through magical black cottonwoods and ancient red cedar.
Fernie is fully encircled by the majestic Canadian Rockies making it a
bucket-list location for adventurers and sightseers alike.
World-class fly-fishing, thrilling whitewater rafting and over 100 mountain
bike and hiking trails complement the eclectic arts community which brings
Summer Sunday Socials and the Wapiti Music Festival in August.
The town of Sparwood is a short drive north of Fernie. On display at
Sparwood is the world’s largest tandem axle dump truck, a larger-than-life
mural tour depicting life as it used to be and underground mining artifacts.
Teck Coal offers free tours of open pit mine operations throughout the
summer from the Visitor Centres in Elkford and Sparwood. The area’s mining
heritage continues as you drive east across the Crowsnest Pass. Stretch your
legs at Summit Lake before entering
the province of Alberta.
At Pincher Creek, take Highway
#6 south to Waterton. Waterton
Village in the heart of Waterton
Lakes National Park is a vibrant
centre offering activities, lodging
and dining. The park is all about
beauty and adventure; it’s a rare
gem tucked in the Rocky Mountains.
Discover the lakes, hikes, wildlife,
heritage and culture. Waterton grabs
a hold of your memory and never
lets go.
This Loop may continue along
Highway #5 to Cardston or south
Fernie Café
along Highway #17 and #89, and
across the international border again
to the town of Babb and the village of Saint Mary.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a spectacular 85 km (53 mi) paved two-lane
highway that bisects Glacier National Park east and west. It spans the width
of the park, crossing the Continental Divide at 2,000 m (6,646 ft) high Logan
Pass. Scenic viewpoints line the road and it’s well worth travelling this road in
each direction—the views are very different and equally stunning. Season of
operation for this road is usually mid-June to early-fall and there are vehicle
size restrictions. Make sure you call or visit the Glacier National Park website
for information and updates on the status of the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The route along the perimeter of the park on Highway #2 through East and
West Glacier Park is also a great way to wrap up this tour. Located about half
way in between these gateway towns is Goat Lick Crossing; an exposed riverbank where mountain goats come to lick the mineral-laden cliffs.
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Nature, of course, pays no attention to national boundaries, but as you
follow this circle route, plan on stopping twice for customs and immigration.
The tour explores the Selkirk Mountain Range from the beautiful Pend
Oreille Valley in Washington State, north to the magnificent Kootenay
Lake in British Columbia and south through the Idaho Panhandle. It is
designated as one of the Top-10 Scenic Drives in the Northern Rockies and
as an All-American Road National Scenic Byway by the US Federal Highway
Administration.
From Spokane, begin heading north on Highway #2 which connects with
Highway #20 at Newport, to Metaline and Metaline Falls. This section of
highway passes through several communities, including Usk, Cusick, Tiger
and Ione.
The Tiger Historical Centre & Museum is the doorway to the past and is
also the southern gateway to the North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway #31. This
former general store was built in 1912. It features displays depicting the
community’s history, the works of local artisans and a working turn of the
century forge.
The town of Metaline Falls is known as one of America’s ‘Top 100 Best
Small Arts Towns’. It is also home to the Cutter Theatre, a 1912 restored
schoolhouse. Popular area attractions include the Mill Pond Historic Trail
and a free guided tour of Gardner Caves.
From Metaline Falls, head north on Highway #31 to the U.S./Canadian
border at Nelway and along Highway #6 to the community of Salmo—
famous for its murals made from locally quarried stone that depict local
historic themes—then on to Nelson.
Downtown Nelson
Visit the charming historic downtown
district to catch a glimpse of the original turn
of the century buildings before visiting the
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge just west of
downtown. The refuge hosts more than 230
species of birds, 45 species of mammals and
22 species of fish and has a 4-mile auto-tour
route.
Continue south on Highway #95 to the city of
Sandpoint situated on Lake Pend Oreille. Water
sports enthusiasts of all types explore this vast
aquatic playground. Lake Pend Oreille Cruises offer excellent interpretive
tours from City Beach all summer long. Schweitzer Mountain Resort offers
year-round recreation including mountain biking, hiking and world-class
Nelson’s brick and stone downtown core is the centrepiece of a small
city that boasts over 350 heritage buildings. The city’s two self-guided
tour brochures can be extremely helpful, but be warned: there are many
distractions including sidewalk cafes and specialty shops.
Your drive on Highway #3A by Kokanee Creek Provincial Park leads you
to the Balfour ferry landing. The village of Balfour is small but vibrant and
offers visitors full amenities. Enjoy the 45-minute scenic and free ferry ride
across beautiful Kootenay Lake. Pilot Bay Provincial Park to the south of the
ferry landing offers several hiking trails including one to the restored Pilot
Peninsula Lighthouse. Just a short drive from the ferry terminal is Crawford
Bay that is home to many unique artisan shops and galleries.
Follow scenic Highway #3A south along Kootenay Lake to Creston. Along
the way, take some time to tour the Glass House near Sanca. Its construction
was started in 1952 and was created out of over 500,000 square embalming
fluid bottles.
Upon your arrival to Creston, watch for signs to the Creston Valley
Wildlife Management Area. Lush wetland habitat stretches 17,000 acres
from the southeast tip of Kootenay Lake to the USA. Take a voyageur canoe
tour or stroll along the marshes on a boardwalk to one of two three-story
observation towers. An estimated 300 species of birds call this area home.
It’s a very short drive from Creston to the international border at Rykerts
and you’ll be back in the United States again. Follow Highway #1 until it
reaches Highway #95 and then head south to Bonners Ferry, Idaho where
the primary attraction is the community’s year-round outdoor recreation.
Touring Highway 3A
Gluns.ca
the 1860s. Nuggets and flakes, along with garnets,
can still be panned from the area’s creeks and
rivers. And Bridesville was once a railroad hub—
honeymooners sometimes stop here to mail their
postcards with the ‘Bridesville’ stamp.
At the Highway junction of #3 and #97 is
Osoyoos—Canada’s only true desert town
offering a plethora of First Nations culture, winery
experiences, great golf and family recreation.
While in town, visit Nk’Mip First Nation’s Desert Cultural Centre or see some of
the wild desert creatures from the safety of a boardwalk at the Osoyoos Desert
Centre. The drive north from Osoyoos to Kelowna is along the ‘Wine Route’ and
BC’s most productive region for vineyards and orchards. Be sure to stop along
the way for a wine tour or fruit sampling.
Penticton is a must see! Set between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake with
kilometres of beautiful beaches, this city has something for everyone—culture,
heritage, wineries, orchard markets, outdoor adventure as well as a family
charm that entices you to stay awhile. Climb aboard the vintage Kettle Valley
Steam Railway in Summerland. It offers a unique 90-minute journey on one of
BC’s few remaining fully operational steam railways.
The beautiful city of Kelowna, set alongside the grand Okanagan Lake, plays
host to numerous outdoor activities and events, entertainment and the Arts.
The city also has a number of beautiful lakeside resorts and plenty of sandy
public beaches!
Continue north on Highway #97 towards Vernon. The beautiful landscape
surrounding Vernon is complemented by the wide range of activities it
offers. Check out the O’Keefe Historical Ranch—home to the first pioneer
families to the valley and highlights the beginning of ranching in the area.
While Armstrong is famous for its cheese, vast farmlands, fresh produce and
their weekly farmers market held April to October, Enderby offers great golf
and numerous lakes, including Mara Lake that offers terrific canoeing and
camping opportunities. Highway #97A brings you to the town of Sicamous
and the Shuswap Lake area. Known as ‘The Houseboating Capital of Canada’,
houseboating cruises on Shuswap and Mara Lakes provide over 1,000 km (620
mi) of shoreline that provides a vast area to swim, camp, fish, hike and bike.
The TransCanada Highway #1 leads you to historic Craigellachie famous
for the point where the ‘last spike’ was driven, joining the western part of the
Canadian Pacific Railway to the segment built from the east. And, just moments
further east on Highway #1 is The Enchanted Forest, Skytrek Adventure Park
and Crazy Creek Waterfalls and Suspension Bridge—all are excellent attractions
and worthwhile stops. Before you reach the city of Revelstoke, the unique
community of Three Valley combines a large modern resort with a historic
ghost town, which allows visitors to step back in history to relive the colourful
pioneer days of the late 1880s.
The railway city of Revelstoke is situated at the highway junction #1 and
#23. With Mount Revelstoke National Park at its city limits, Revelstoke enjoys a
truly dramatic mountain setting. Downtown, heritage buildings are clustered
around Grizzly Plaza, a venue for live music on summer evenings. Pick up a
Heritage Tour brochure from the Visitor Centre and learn about its fascinating
history. Visit Revelstoke’s excellent museums, take a tour of BC Hydro’s colossal
Revelstoke Dam or play a round of golf at the beautiful riverside course.
You may like to plan to spend some extra time exploring Mount Revelstoke
and Glacier National Parks.
Just outside of Revelstoke, watch for signs to Mt Revelstoke National Park’s
Meadows in the Sky Parkway and drive to within 2 kilometres (1 mi) of the
summit. A shuttle bus or trail takes you the rest of the way, through flowerfilled subalpine meadows to the only road-accessible mountain summit in
Canada’s national park system. In the valley far below, you can stroll through
rare old-growth rainforest, containing cedar trees that are 800 years old with
easy access on two interpretive boardwalk trails.
With over 400 glaciers covering one-tenth of its area, Glacier National Park is
a stunning setting for some fascinating mountaineering history. One of British
Columbia’s great mountain crossings, Rogers Pass is a National Historic Site.
The Rogers Pass Discovery Centre lets you relive the larger-than-life stories of
the explorers, railroaders, adventurers and avalanche-fighters that made Rogers
Pass famous. From the summit of the Pass, the TransCanada Highway takes you
back to the town of Golden, with sweeping views of the Selkirk, Purcell and
Rocky mountain ranges at every turn.
MarkGallup.com
Hux.net / StEugene.ca
Tour the vineyards – Trail, Creston & the Okanagan
C.Dadson Photo
The mighty Rocky Mountains
Gluns.ca
take you over the edge. Enjoy the Gold Fever Follies, a theatrical celebration that
is presented throughout the summer at the Rossland Miners Hall.
Take Highway #3B north to the Crowsnest Highway #3 and head west
through Gladstone Provincial Park and the community of Christina Lake.
There’s so much to see and do here, you might want to stay for a while.
Christina Lake is one of the best summer family vacation destinations, as
it offers everything from one of the warmest swimming lakes in Canada and
sandy beaches to awesome mountain biking opportunities on abandoned
railbeds of the TransCanada Trail.
International Selkirk Loop Approx 450 km/280 mi
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AllCanadaPhotos.com / John Marriott
Tourism BC/Dave Heath
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Emerald Lake, Yoho National Park
This tour reveals the character of both sides of the famous Canadian Rocky
town. Tours of this active mine are available
Mountains. Explore the foothills of southern Alberta’s cowboy country and
throughout the summer.
enjoy the beauty of big skies and wide open plains. Experience the dramatic
A quick side trip north on Highway #43
vistas where the prairies meet the mountains. Then head west through the
takes you to Elkford which is ‘Wild at heart’.
Rockies and cross the Continental Divide to find yourself in the deep forests,
This area has one of the largest bighorn sheep
towering peaks and glaciers of British Columbia.
populations on the continent and is also
Starting in Calgary, head south on Macleod Trail (Highway #2) and watch
home to Teck Coal—offering free tours of
for signs to Spruce Meadows. Take a tour of this local success story, voted the
the open pit mine operations on Saturdays
#1 horse show jumping facility in the world.
during the summer. Close to town, enjoy
Now head west on Hwy #22X until you come to Hwy #22, known as the
the easy 45-minute hike to a lookout above
Cowboy Trail, and swing south through the rolling foothills of Alberta’s high
Josephine Falls or a round of golf. For the
ranch country to the sister communities of Black Diamond and Turner Valley.
more adventurous, travel further north to
Turner Valley is the birthplace of Alberta’s oil and gas industry—the site of
the Elk Lakes Provincial Park.
the 1914 Dingman Discovery Well that began Alberta’s first oil boom, now
Historic Fernie is packed with Victorian charm; pick up a Heritage Walking
preserved as a National Historic Site.
Tour brochure at the Fernie Museum and visit turn-of-the century attractions
Continue south from Black Diamond to Longview and stop at Ian Tyson’s
such as chocolate making machines and a 1916 printing press. Thrillseekers
Navajo Mug. Try to choose from 21 different kinds of luscious homemade
can zipline at the Aerial Playground, raft whitewater on the Elk River or ride
pies. Thirteen kilometres (8 mi) further
horseback through the alpine.
south is the Bar U Ranch National Historic
Take a side trip from the highway village
Site which stands as a living tribute to the
of Elko to Lake Koocanusa where sandy
ranching industry in Alberta.
beaches are the hallmark of this large lake
Continue south past Chain Lakes where
and houseboating is very popular. Along
you leave the Cowboy Trail to head east
route to Fort Steele, the Bull River turnoff
on Highway #533. Continue to Highway
leads you to the Kootenay Trout Hatchery.
#2 and the town of Nanton and stroll its
Take a self-guided tour of the extensive
historic Main Street filled with antique and
interpretive area, view trophy sized trout
specialty shops.
in the moat and watch turtles, fish and
Just before you arrive in Fort Macleod,
water insects in the pond.
take Highway #785 to Head-SmashedFort Steele Heritage Town is a restored
in-Buffalo-Jump. This UNESCO World
boomtown of the 1890s, where colourful
Heritage Site is one of the oldest, largest
characters from the past entertain visitors
and best-preserved buffalo jumps in
on the street and period tradesman
North America.
present fascinating demonstrations in
Blacksmiths of Fort Steele Heritage Town
In Fort Macleod, be sure to visit The Fort
their shops. Tour the town by horse
Museum of the North West Mounted Police
drawn wagon, catch a ride on the steam
and catch the famous NWMP Musical
train, do a little gold panning and enjoy
Ride. Then continue south to Cardston
hilarious comedy shows at the Wild Horse
and visit the Remington Carriage Museum
Theatre. Spring and fall ‘Gossip Tours’ are
—North America’s largest collection of
also a hit, as are their many year-round
horse-drawn transportation. Less than an
special events.
hour south is Waterton Lakes National
Continue your travels north toward
Park. The smallest of the Canadian Rocky
Radium Hot Springs—Highway #93/#95
Mountain national parks, it is described
leads you by Wasa Lake where sandy
as the jewel in the crown of the continent.
beaches and warm water await. You also
Home to plants and wildlife not found
have the option of visiting the Lussier Hot
elsewhere in western Canada, it is a
Springs in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park
paradise for nature lovers and outdoor
and Fairmont Hot Springs.
enthusiasts. Take the Waterton Shoreline
Another perfect place to stop along the
Cruise on Upper Waterton Lake where
way is Invermere—browse the quaint
Montana awaits on the far shore, Red Rock
downtown, play a round of golf, enjoy
Kootenay National Park
Canyon is an easy hike, or stop for a paddle
lunch by the lake and take in a concert
at Cameron Lake.
or theatrical performance at the Pynelogs
Highway #6 north takes you to Pincher Creek and the Kootenai Brown
Cultural Centre. Nearby Panorama Mountain Village offers the ultimate
Pioneer Village—a turn of the 19th century historic village. Then head west on
family destination—mountain biking, golf, chairlift rides, accommodation
Highway #3. There are a number of small former coal mining communities
and more.
with a fascinating history to explore along the way. Be sure to stop at the Frank
Once you’re back on Highway #93/#95, the village of Radium Hot Springs’
Slide Interpretive Centre which does an excellent job of capturing the history
Visitor Centre offers a ‘Cultures in Contact Exhibit’. It provides a historical
and tragedies of the Crowsnest Pass.
overview of the Ktunaxa Nation people’s past, present and future.
After you pass through Coleman, you cross the Continental Divide and
Take Highway #93 and head into Kootenay National Park and to the Radium
enter the province of British Columbia. In Sparwood, it’s impossible to miss
Hot Springs pools. Watch for wildlife—bighorn sheep, deer, elk, fox and bears
the town’s most famous visitor attraction. Painted in industrial green is the
are often seen along this beautiful mountain highway. Stop at several roadside
world’s largest tandem axle dump truck, the Terex Titan. This, the ultimate
points of interest to learn more about the area. Once you leave the park, connect
in monster trucks, was formerly used in the large open pit mine above the
onto Highway #1 east towards Banff and eventually back to Calgary again.
skiing. Cultural activities are also plentiful—the restored, historic spanishstyled Panida Theatre is a vibrant centre for the performing arts.
From Sandpoint, take Highway #2 west to Priest River. The Priest River
Museum & Timber Education Centre displays historical artifacts from the
logging industry, as well as earlier pioneer family furnishings. A short drive
north on Highway #57 are the resort communities of Priest Lake—spend a
couple days stretched out on the white sand beach and swim in crystalline
waters. Priest Lake is also known for their premier season of huckleberries
and mushrooms—many of the area restaurants offer delectable dishes
featuring these woodland treats.
Once you’re back on Highway #2, continue west to Newport, Washington.
This city’s heritage is rich in timber, mineral and agriculture which visitors
can relive by visiting original structures, such as the Northern Railway
Depot (1908) that houses the Pend Oreille Country Historical Museum. From
Newport and Highway #2, you may head south towards Spokane again, only
72 km (45 mi) away. Pick up a free Selkirk Loop Travel Guide at any of the
visitor centres around The Loop or visit www.SelkirkLoop.org for further
information including 6 ‘Super Side Trips’ which add more than 815 km
(500 mi) to explore.
Kootenay Rockies
Heading west on Highway #31A, you’ll discover Sandon‚ British
Columbia’s legendary ghost city, and experience the silver rush of the
1800s. Historical treasures include the City Hall and Interpretive Centre,
Generating Station, Prospector’s Pick gift shop, Museum and much more.
The road to the Idaho Peak hiking trail also begins at Sandon, as does the
Kaslo & Slocan Railway Historic Trail—a 5 km (3 mi) trail that takes you by
historic mine shafts and artifacts of the past.
Across from the magnificent Valhalla mountain range and New Denver
glacier, the small towns of New Denver and Silverton sit on the unspoiled
shore of Slocan Lake. Visit the Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre in New
Denver to learn the story of the internment of thousands of Canadians of
Japanese descent during World War II. The Silvery Slocan Museum in New
Denver and the Silverton Historical Society Interpretive Centre, Silverton’s
outdoor mining museum, display an interesting selection of memorabilia.
Enjoy exploring the rest of the spectacularly beautiful Slocan Valley—
alongside Valhalla Provincial Park and Slocan Lake boat launches are
situated and at the village of Slocan, Hwy #6 gives access to Valhalla Park.
This area was once a magnet for thousands of hopeful prospectors and
miners. Today, the charming towns and villages nestled in this valley enjoy
a quiet serenity.
Discover the extraordinary diversity of southern British Columbia. In
a matter of hours, you drive from interior rain forest to true desert and
pass through a multitude of climatic zones in between. Vineyards flourish
on warm dry slopes, with the majority located in the Okanagan Valley,
which forms the western boundary of this robust and full-bodied tour.
The spectacular Rocky Mountain Trench defines the eastern boundary.
Begin your journey in Golden. Set on the banks of the Columbia River,
this tranquil town offers endless outdoor adventures. Travel south on
Highway #93/#95 through the beautiful Columbia Valley to the communities
of Invermere on the Lake, Kimberley and Cranbrook.
The streets of Invermere are lined with quaint shops, arts and craft
exhibits, outdoor cafés and restaurants. Just a short walk from downtown is
Lake Windermere offering a beach and warm swimming water, parks and
picnic areas and various watersports with rentals.
The centre of Kimberley is the cobblestone Platzl, an open air shopping
and dining area, surrounded by flower baskets. Kimberley’s mining heritage
is a prominent focal point in the community—the Underground Mining
Railway takes visitors to the restored and still functional powerhouse
and to an Interpretive Centre through a 227 metre (750 ft) underground
tunnel. Kimberley also boasts three fine golf courses, Cominco Gardens
and many festivals such as the famous Julyfest and International Old Time
Accordion Championships.
Cranbrook is the largest commercial centre in the region and its heritage
lies in the romantic age of railroading, which is celebrated at the Canadian
Museum of Rail Travel–Trains Deluxe. The centerpiece of the train displays
is the restored complete set of the TransCanada Limited, a million dollar
train set built in 1929 and given National Historic Designation in 2011
as a Deluxe Hotel-on-Wheels. Tour the restored Royal Alexandra Hall, the
History Gallery, the heritage homes of Baker Hill, enjoy a performance at the
Key City Theatre or try your luck at the Casino of the Rockies.
Continue southwest on Crowsnest Highway #3, to the town of Creston.
Wine lovers and foodies delight in Creston. With three wineries now:
Baillie-Grohman, Skimmerhorn and Wynnwood, and dozens of venues to
pick up locally produced food, the area invites you to ‘Experience the 10
mile diet’. Orchard and farm tours are offered at certain locations, as well
as tours of the Columbia Brewing Company, brewers of Kokanee Beer and
home of the Sasquatch.
The Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area offers 17,000 acres of
wetland habitat complete with viewing towers and guided canoe tours. And,
the historical Creston Museum fills out the rest of the story of this charming
small town.
Continue west on Highway #3 and pass through Stagleap Provincial Park
before you reach Salmo. Drive north on Highway #6 to historic Nelson
and be sure to take the self-guided walking tour of 350 restored heritage
buildings. Ride Streetcar #23 along the waterfront or stroll down Baker
Street and tour the studios and galleries of Canada’s finest small art town.
Highway #3A brings you to Castlegar, at the confluence of the Columbia
and Kootenay Rivers. Rich in history and Doukhobor culture, enjoy some
quiet time at Zuckerberg Heritage Park and learn about some local history
at the Doukhobor Discovery Centre and the Station Museum. Castlegar also
offers superb recreation facilities such as boating and fly-fishing, golfing
and mountain biking. The now abandoned Columbia Western Railway
line slowly climbs out of Castlegar, into the Monashee mountain range
and eventually connects with the Kettle Valley Railway Trail—a favourite
destination for cyclists from around the world.
The cities of Trail and Rossland are a short drive south on Highway #22.
In Trail, the Columbia Gardens Vineyard and Winery offer guided tours of
the wine making facilities and vineyard, and serve wine samples at the tasting bar. One of the varieties is Gamay—a dessert wine with intense aromas
of strawberry, peach, apricot and honey. At the Trail Interpretive Centre, a
tour of the world’s largest lead/zinc smelter begins with engaging hands-on
exhibits—a true family experience.
Mountain bikers and skiers love the mountain city of Rossland. It is
home to hundreds of kilometres of mountain biking trails and is known as
the ‘Mountain Biking Capital of British Columbia.’ This is also a city that
celebrates its roots. A trip to the museum could include a guided tour of
the old LeRoi Gold Mine site. If gold fever hasn’t struck you yet, the inviting
wild-west hospitality and the vintage buildings of Rossland will certainly
This three-legged tour is often powered by
just two legs. The Golden Triangle is well
known in the cycling world. Cars also
negotiate these mountain passes as you
traverse Kootenay, Banff and Yoho National
Parks (park pass required). Explore the huge
expanse of wetlands in the upper Columbia
Valley and at the end of the day, enjoy the
friendly hospitality of Golden or the
steaming hot springs in Radium.
Let’s begin this tour near the northern
area of the region in Yoho National Park—
Yoho is a stunning 1,310 sq km (507 sq mi)
park. The scale of this landscape is simply
awesome, which coincidentally, is the
meaning of the Cree word ‘Yoho’. Sights include the Spiral Tunnels, Takakkaw
Falls—one of Canada’s highest waterfalls, the Natural Bridge, Emerald Lake
and the 500-million-year-old Burgess Shale fossils. The quaint village of Field
features an excellent Visitor Centre just off the TransCanada Highway and is
also home to artisans whose works can be found in local shops.
Midway between Yoho and Glacier National Parks, you’re in the heart of
Kicking Horse Country. The mountainous town of Golden is situated at the
confluence of the Kicking Horse and Columbia Rivers, and offers endless
recreational possibilities such as whitewater rafting excitement, serene
backcountry lodging, tandem paragliding off Mount 7—Canada’s premier
launch site, renowned dining—including at the top of a 1,219 metre (4,000
ft) gondola and 50 kilometres (30 mi) of cross-country mountain bike
trails on the Moonraker network are available for the adventurous. Wildlife
viewing opportunities also abound—the Golden area offers a wolf centre,
grizzly bear refuge and the 150 km (90 mi) long Columbia Wetland habitat
paralleling Highway #95 south from Golden.
Once you reach the junction of Highway #93 and #95, you have arrived in
the village of Radium Hot Springs. Be sure to watch for the resident herd of
bighorn sheep! Turn northeast to enter Kootenay National Park and the Sinclair
Canyon, where the Radium Hot Springs mineral pools are nestled. Stop over
here for a while to enjoy a therapeutic soak, visit the spa or have lunch—the
village also offers a huge selection of overnight accommodation options.
Continue your travels north on Highway #93 through Kootenay National
Park; there are several points of interest and short hikes from the highway.
A few include, Olive Lake, Kootenay Valley Viewpoint, Vermilion Crossing, the
Paint Pots, Marble Canyon and the Fireweed Trail near the Continental Divide.
Continue on Highway #93 through Vermilion Pass, into Alberta and back to
Banff National Park and the TransCanada Highway #1.
Waterton-Glacier Loop Approx 725 km/450 mi
Mountains & Vineyards Approx 1,250 km/775 mi
The Slocan Valley comprises one of the
most exhilarating places to explore in the
Kootenay Rockies. Here you can discover
pristine lakes and rivers, historic trails,
mine ruins and unforgettable ghost towns.
Let’s begin this tour in Nelson. This
historic city is regarded as one of the
jewels in the Kootenay Rockies. While
the town got its start in silver mining,
its claim to fame as one of the ‘Best
Small Arts Communities in North
America’ has been well documented.
Explore Nelson through the Heritage
Walking Tour—you can pick up a
map at the Visitor Centre. Nelson is
home to many fine heritage buildings, from elegant mansions to elaborate
commercial structures and offers more than just its great heritage. The
community’s annual Art Walk (July & August) showcases the local artisans’
incredible work. And, Touchstones Nelson: Museum of Art and History
celebrates the creativity, the history, the vibe that is Nelson.
Carry-on in a northerly direction on Highway #3A along the west arm
of Kootenay Lake to Ainsworth Hot Springs where you’ll want to rejuvenate
in the hot, natural, mineral springs water. The resort also offers dining
options, a lounge, overnight accommodation and massage therapy.
The village of Kaslo is set at the highway junction of #31/#31A. The restored
SS Moyie, the world’s oldest intact passenger sternwheeler and proud symbol
of Kaslo’s heritage, sits on the shores of Kootenay Lake. Kaslo’s 19th-century
buildings have also benefitted from the community’s commitment to its
heritage. If you like music, visit during the Jazz Festival that showcases the
world’s best on a floating stage each August holiday weekend.
If a side-trip interests you, follow Highway #31 north along Kootenay
Lake. Davis Creek and Lost Ledge Parks are lovely provincial campgrounds.
Past the village of Howser, and along Trout Lake and the Goat Range Park,
Highway #31 turns into a gravel road. In the village of Trout vLake, check out
the Windsor Hotel that was established in 1892 for a historical adventure.
Kaslo’s SS Moyie
spectacular Monashee mountain range and the
crystal blue lake, the resort’s four mineral-rich
natural hot springs pools await, each at a different
temperature. Revitalize in the full-service spa or
enjoy fresh and delicious selections from the
Kingfisher’s culinary team while taking in the
alpine scenery. Open year-round, this is a place
of wellness and recreation with a wide variety of
adventure activities and accommodation options
from comfortable quaint cabins to luxurious mountain chalets.
Continue alongside the beautiful Arrow Lakes. Just before the village of
Nakusp, watch for the turnoff to the Nakusp Hot Springs—it’s 12 km (7.5
mi) off the highway. The Nakusp Hot Springs naturally heated mineral
pools are situated in a beautiful mountain setting, with creeks rushing by
and trees to shade your eyes. The small pool is kept at 38-41°C (100-106°F)
and the large 36-38°C (97-100°F);
(summer/winter temperatures). Cedar
chalets and a shaded campground are
located on-site. There’s also a variety
of lodging available in the nearby
downtown. Nakusp also offers a lovely
waterfront walkway that displays
several gardens—one of them being a
beautiful Japanese Garden.
The Nakusp area offers some
backcountry pools as well, such as
Halfway River Hot Springs. Access to
these natural hot springs can be a
challenge as they are found off a steep
trail which begins off the Halfway
River Road. Check in at the Visitor
Centre for details.
If a side-trip interests you, follow
Highway #6 west along the Lower Arrow
Lake to Fauquier. McDonald Creek
Provincial Park offers several kilometres
of fine sandy beach and waterfront sites.
The tiny village of Fauquier is a fun
place to visit, fish and golf.
Once back on Highway #6 east,
you’ll arrive in New Denver. Then
take Highway #31A past the ghost
town of Sandon to the pretty village
of Kaslo. New Denver and Silverton
offer artisan shops, walking trails and
the Nikkei Internment Centre. Sandon
and Kaslo offer excellent historical
attractions such as Slocan Mercantile
Block and the SS Moyie. (Check the
Silvery Slocan Circle Route for details.)
Ainsworth Hot Springs is a short drive south on Highway #31 from Kaslo.
This resort offers casual dining and newly renovated rooms overlooking
beautiful Kootenay Lake. These unique odourless hot springs have a
horseshoe shaped cave, which is lined with stalactites. Explore the cave pool
(43°C/109°F) or relax in the main pool, averaging 36°C (97°F) and gaze at the
magnificent Purcell Mountain view. For the brave, there’s also a stream-fed
cold plunge which changes temperatures with the seasons.
At Balfour, 14 km (9 mi) south of Ainsworth Hot Springs, take the free
Kootenay Lake Ferry to Crawford Bay. Travel along Hwy #3A and the east
shore of Kootenay Lake where there are opportunities to explore many
artisan shops before you enter the colourful world of orchards and gardens at
Creston—a wonderful way to wrap up the Hot Springs tour. It’s a quick one
hour drive from Creston back to Cranbrook, the business centre for the area.
Circle Routes Map
Silvery Slocan Approx 215 km/135 mi
Hot springs occur naturally in the Kootenay Rockies and the region
boasts six hot springs resorts—Ainsworth, Canyon, Fairmont, Halcyon,
Nakusp and Radium Hot Springs—each located in the midst of beautiful
mountainous scenery. If you prefer a wilderness setting, the region also
includes a number of backcountry pools, such as Lussier Hot Springs.
Enjoy the calm and rejuvenating waters.
Let’s begin this tour in the south, near the city of Cranbrook travelling
north on Highway #95A to Kimberley, once a thriving mining town, now
a four season alpine city. Continue north on Highway #93/#95 towards
Fairmont Hot Springs. Along the way, you may want to leave the highway
behind for a visit to the Lussier Hot Springs in Whiteswan Lake Provincial
Park—the turnoff is near Canal Flats and this drive is 18 km (11 mi) on a
gravel road. These popular pools are easily accessed down a gradual slope
from the road where there are several pools among the boulders which
average 44°C (111°F). The Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park is a wonderful
recreational area with campgrounds and
two great fishing lakes.
Once back on the highway again,
the historic Fairmont Hot Springs
Resort is a quick drive further north.
The 10,000 square foot, year-round,
odourless hot springs pools offer
natural mineral waters averaging 30°C
to 39°C (86°F to 102°F). This complex
includes a swimming and diving pool
as well. Resort amenities include 45
holes of golf, 7 restaurants, recreational
programs, spa, overnight lodging and a
deluxe RV park.
Take some extra time to visit the
quaint town of Invermere and Lake
Lussier Hot Springs
Windermere. West of Invermere,
Panorama Mountain Village, is a short
Ainsworth Hot Springs
drive into the heart of the Purcell
Mountain range. The four-season
resort offers a variety of heated pools
and summertime waterslides exclusive
to overnighting guests. The pools’
temperature ranges are 27-38°C (80101°F) summer / 32-38°C (90-101°F)
winter.
Radium Hot Springs natural mineral
pool is set amidst the spectacular red
rock walls of Sinclair Canyon in Kootenay
National Park. The odourless hot pool is
open year-round at 37°C to 41°C (98°F
to 106°F) and the swimming pool is
29°C (85°F). The dramatic scenery and
soothing water combine to rejuvenate.
The Pleiades Day Spa, restaurant and gift shop are also on-site. The village
of Radium Hot Springs offers complete amenities for the visitor including
dining, shopping, golfing and many accommodation properties.
Continue north on Highway #95 to Golden. The TransCanada Highway
#1 and Rogers Pass takes you through magnificent Glacier National Park and
to Canyon Hot Springs. This resort, open May to September, offers natural
mineral hot pools—a 15,000 gallon hot pool (40°C/104°F) and a 60,000
gallon swimming pool (31°C/88°F), a campground, RV park and wonderful
cabin accommodation. Set in the Columbia Mountains, its location also offers
many hiking trails including Giant Cedars and Skunk Cabbage Trail in Mount
Revelstoke National Park.
Once you arrive at the city of Revelstoke, head south on Highway #23
towards the Upper Arrow Lakes Ferry for a swift and scenic crossing to
Galena Bay and soon thereafter, Halcyon Hot Springs. Surrounded by the
Rockies & Ranchlands Approx 1,025 km/635 mi
British Columbia’s Mountain Playground • KootenayRockies.com
W
hether touring the area is your vacation or you’re headed to a specific destination, jump into a
suggested Driving Route to make the most of your Kootenay Rockies experience. Expect to be awed!
The region features 4 stunning national parks, fascinating Victorian towns and the engaging heritage
of a railroad carved out of a wilderness. You’ll discover wild rivers that beg to be fished or rafted, and
serene lakes that perfectly reflect the exquisite scenery that is all around them. The region is also one of
Canada’s premier destinations for golfing and mountain biking.
Along the way, stay at resorts offering everything from hot springs to horseback riding, and from helihiking to health spas. Camping opportunities abound while the many backcountry lodges, inns and
guest ranches offer getaways in natural settings.
The Kootenay Rockies can be fully explored by car, RV, motorcycle or bicycle. Discover the amazing
range of recreational, cultural and heritage attractions the Kootenay Rockies has to offer … We are
British Columbia’s Mountain Playground.
Golden Triangle Approx 315 km/195 mi
Hot Springs Approx 800 km/500 mi
Yoho National Park / Gluns.ca
Glacier National Park between Revelstoke and Golden