Built to harness the power of nature, Revelstoke Dam is one of North America's largest and most modern hydro-electric developments. The reservoir stretches 135km/84mi and is some 2,000m/6,562 ft wide. It is one of four BC dams built to regulate the flow of the Columbia River. Visitors can take an elevator to the dam crest lookout to get an inside look at the dam operation from the Visitor Centre atop the powerhouse. The main powerhouse gallery, circuit breaker gallery, tailrace area and control room are also available for viewing. Visit the large exhibition area to see how the
Revelstoke project was built and watch video presentations in the theatre. The free, self-guided tour features a "talking wand" audio guide.
Planning a Trip To Revelstoke Dam
- The Revelstoke Dam is located approximately 15mins north of Revelstoke.
- Admission is free.
- Tours are self-guided, and require approximately 1-2 hours.
- The facility is fully wheelchair accessible.
Nelson Heritage Tour
Situated in the spectacular Selkirk Mountains,
Nelson's historic features are legendary. It has earned a reputation as one of the finest heritage cities in Canada, with 350 restored heritage homes and buildings. The city's brewery and many churches in the uphill district are remarkably preserved.
F.M. Rattenbury, famed architect of BC's Legislative Buildings and Victoria's Empress Hotel, designed Nelson's courthouse. This 1909 building is a fine example of Beaux Arts Chateau-style architecture, with its high pitched roof, towers, conical caps, gables, and paired windows.
A stroll through the community reveals rock walls used to shore up gardens and road beds that add distinctive charm to the area. It is easy to imagine riders hopping the smallest electric streetcar system in the British Empire, which operated in Nelson for 50 years, from 1899 to 1949.
Nelson tour information and maps available from the Visitor Information Centre.