Things to Do

View of Kootenay Lake valley from Buchanan Lookout (View of Kootenay Lake valley from Buchanan Lookout (David Gluns photo)

Kaslo is located on main body of Kootenay Lake (1km/0.6mi wide and 145km/90mi in length) and surrounded by the Purcell and Selkirk Mountains, making outdoor adventure options virtually limitless.

Take a houseboat, kayak, or canoe out on the lake, hike at one of the area's many provincial parks, or soak up revitalizing minerals at Ainsworth Hot Springs.

Spend a day exploring Kaslo's historic and heritage sites: The SS Moyie, the Langham Cultural Centre, and the 1896 Kaslo Village Hall. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the rich culture and history of this small Kootenay Rockies community.

Winter brings cat skiing and backcountry skiing.

Land Activities

Take a leisurely walk along Kaslo River Trials, trek to the Mount Buchanan lookout (elevation: 1,912m/6,272ft) via Wardner Street Trail, or carefully traverse Fry Creek Trail's canyon route. Wardner Street Trail is 10km/6mi east of Kaslo on Highway 31 and then an 11km/7mi drive up a mountain road. Those without a vehicle can hitch a ride with Top Down Tours.

Even more hiking is found at Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, 85km/53mi of groomed trails to be exact, and at Goat Range Provincial Park, where the terrain is rugged and challenging.

Water Activities

The very best way to explore Kootenay Lake is on a houseboat from Kaslo Shipyards. These boats are designed to cope with the wave action in this large lake and can be beached overnight in remote bays and beaches. Fishing charters and boat rentals can be arranged through Woodbury Resort, 16km/11mi south of Kaslo.

Explore the lake in a kayak or canoe. Rent tandem kayaks at Kaslo Kayaking (438A Ave), or take a two-hour guided kayak tour. The Kaslo Guest House also offers rentals. Whitewater kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts can ride the Lardeau River. (Note: An activity not for beginners.)

Winter Activities

Head to the mountains by snowcat or helicopter for some amazing cat skiing and backcountry skiing. Both varieties of operators offer guided and self-guided packages with mountain lodge accommodation.

Cross-country skiing is available at the True Blue Trails by the Kaslo airport. Soak tried joints and bones at Ainsworth Hot Springs – absolutely amazing against a winter backdrop.

Driving Routes

Access Kaslo's summer offerings – groomed-trail and wilderness hiking in provincial parks – and winter offerings – cat skiing and backcountry skiing – along two distinct driving routes. Learn more about driving routes through Kaslo here: Driving Routes.

Where to Begin

Make sure to drop by the Kaslo Visitor Centre, located on beautiful Kootenay Lake with spectacular views of the Purcell and Selkirk Mountains, for more information about things to do in the area.

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