Plan Your Trip to the West Kootenays

West Kootenays

BC’s West Kootenays is the perfect destination for anyone who enjoys a slower pace of life. This laid-back area is tucked away from larger centres, close to mountains that call to bikers and hikers—and to skiers in the winter months—and to narrow lakes perfect for paddling. Discover unique mountain culture in small towns full of warm, friendly people.

What to Do in the West Kootenays

In winter, follow the stretch of road known as the Powder Highway to experience dry, fluffy snow at resorts like Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson. And take advantage of the best deal in town at RED Mountain Resort, where you can try cat-skiing.

In summer, head to Kootenay Lake and visit communities with rich local histories and vibrant arts scenes. Then get out and enjoy nature: hike and bike in old-growth cedar forests, relax at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, go underground at Cody Caves Provincial Park, and get wet in lakes and rivers on a paddling, fishing, or whitewater rafting adventure. Don’t miss the excellent 360-degree vista views and easy hiking trails, including Mount Buchanan or Pulpit Rock where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Nelson.

Where to Stay in the West Kootenays

Each community in the Kootenays has its own unique story to tell. The historic downtown of Revelstoke has retained many of its original, early-20th century buildings. The Eleven Revelstoke Lodge here is a stand-out, as is the Sutton Place Hotel at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, or Basecamp Suites in Revelstoke with stunning views of the Columbia River. The artsy community of Nelson boasts more than 350 heritage buildings, including the historic Hume Hotel & Spa which first opened in 1898, or the Stirling All Suites Hotel that offers easy access to Nelson’s vibrant arts scene, outdoor activities, and the scenic beauty of this area. A Rossland’s RED Mountain Resort offers on-mountain accommodation including  The Josie Hotel.

Other communities offering both accommodation and charm include the picture-perfect village of Kaslo, and the cities of Castlegar and Trail, set along the Columbia River.

How to Get To the West Kootenays

Even though there are no major urban centres here, the West Kootenays—and the adjacent Canadian Rockies—are highly accessible. To get to Revelstoke or Rossland, fly into the Kelowna International Airport, Spokane International Airport, or Trail Regional Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines. Alternatively, fly into the Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook or the West Kootenay Regional Airport in Castlegar. Vehicle rentals are available at all three.