Set on an ancient volcanic valley deep in the Monashee Mountains in the Kootenay Rockies region, Rossland (population: 3,278) is an outdoor adventure mecca for fans of mountain biking, hiking, Nordic, downhill and snow-cat skiing, golfing and more. Seeking excitement? Adventure? Culture? Rossland may be a small city, but it's pretty big on activities.
In fact, Rossland's flagship trail, the Seven Summits, is not for gutter bunnies or newbies. It traverses more than 30km/18mi across stunning and high peaks. The SS Skyline trail was awarded Epic Ride status by the International Mountain Bike Association and Trail of the Year by the US's Bike Magazine.
The area's extensive trail network, which includes hundreds of kilometers of green, blue and black diamond runs, attracts both enthusiasts and hardcore bikers for most of the year.
Winter Adventure Activities
With the Monashees towering at 1,023m/3,410ft, the Rossland area also boasts spectacular views, varied terrain and exceptional alpine, Nordic, backcountry and snow-cat skiing at nearby Red Mountain Resort. With an impressive snow fall of 750cm/300in per season, ski-bums – both visiting and local – find the mountains irresistible.
Summer and Relaxation
The appeal of this mountain town extends into the summer as well. Rossland's festivals and events are plentiful, and there's plenty of golfing, dining, hiking, fishing and fascinating historical sites to take in. Plus, when not being used by mountain bikers, the trails make excellent routes for horseback riding or exploring.
No less than five provincial parks with beautiful alpine lakes also surround the area, including Beaver Creek, Champion Lakes, Nancy Greene and Gladstone Provincial Parks.
Christina Lake's waters are supposed to be among the warmest for swimming in Canada, and Champion Lakes' sandy beaches are great for lounging on.
Rossland Today
Rossland is located just 10km/6mi west of Trail, the largest nearby city. Rosslanders are a sociable and community-minded lot, and are welcoming to visitors who share their passion for the outdoorsy lifestyle.
There are, blissfully, no traffic lights or malls in town, just friendly owner-operated shops and boutiques that help contribute to Rossland's small-town charm.
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