With one of the warmest lakes in the Kootenay Rockies on its doorstep, and Columbia Lake just a few kilometers to the south, Invermere is a perfect family destination. The combination of sun, sand and splashing around in the water is a summer memory waiting to happen. Popular activities on the water include canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and waterskiing.
Although there is talk of restricting the use of powerboats on the 15km/9mi long Windermere Lake, their use is currently allowed. Expect to see lots of powerboats and jet skis on the water for the foreseeable future.
Kinsmen Beach
Situated right at the edge of town, Kinsmen Beach is close to all amenities. Anyone concerned about too much exposure to the sun will appreciate the grove of trees just above the sand. With a clearly defined and somewhat shallow swimming area, this is a great place for families with younger children.
James Chabot Provincial Park
Just 2km/1.3mi south of Invermere, the small family-friendly James Chabot Provincial Park sits on the western shore of Windermere Lake. Behind the broad sandy beach, an open grassy area serves as a play space. There is an adventure playground, a volleyball court and an elevated boardwalk that facilitates wildlife viewing in a wetland area. The park is popular with windsurfers, and is wheelchair accessible.
Columbia Lake
Canal Flats Provincial Park, near the village of Canal Flats, is a day use park that is cooperatively managed by the exotically named Canal Flats Beach Club. While the waters of Columbia Lake are a little cooler than those of Windermere Lake, lots of hardy people swim from this beach - without wetsuits. If it is a hot day, who cares? There is a grassy area for picnicking, a boat launch, good fishing and enough wind to get the windsurfers excited.