Riding the loop around the Kokanee Park is a must do! Travelling through Nelson, Balfour, Kaslo, New Denver and through the Slocan Valley. It has some of the most flowy twisties anywhere.
Nelson
Nelson is one of Canada’s hidden gems. Nestled in the Selkirk Mountains along the West Arm of Kootenay Lake, the vibrant mountain town of approximately 10,000 residents features a special combination of heritage, recreation, culture and creativity. It’s been called North American’s best ski town and Canada’s best small arts and culture town for good reason. Nelson’s Baker Street is full of art, in shops, galleries, and even on the streets and in the alleys.
Kaslo
A quaint village on the shores of Kootenay Lake in the Selkirk Mountains, it overlooks the soaring peaks in the Purcell Mountain Range. The downtown features various boutique eateries, shops, and artisans. Beautiful parks with pristine beaches surround the downtown. Heritage buildings have been lovingly restored, including the S.S. Moyie,the world’s oldest intact sternwheeler and the Langham Cultural Centre. You can walk pretty much everywhere in Kaslo, or take a bike for a quicker journey and to head up the hills, along the river, or down the lake.
Ainsworth Hot Springs
The hot springs are open year round, and feature a natural 150-foot horseshoe cave, a large lounging pool, and a stream-fed cold plunge. Renovated in 2012 and expanded in 2019, the resort also features accommodations, a restaurant, and the Spirit Water Spa. Book online or for specific inquiries call 1-800-668-1171.
The hot springs have been healing visitors with its mineral waters for hundreds of years, and the cave experience is worth a visit in itself.
Backroads Brewing
Occupying a prime, central location on Baker Street, Backroads has fit in seamlessly beside the many cafes, restaurants and crystal-selling stores of downtown Nelson, the counter-culture capital of BC’s Interior. Without its name emblazoned on the tall windows, you’d have no idea there was a brewery tucked into the back
Bonus Linkage
West Kootenays
So much amazingness in the West Kootenays to explore! Smooth, twisty roads and stellar backcounty. It’s all here to download in one PACK. Get the
Yahk to Kikomun Rd
So you say you need a route to connect between Yack and Jaffery? Well, here it is! If you’re going between Creston and Fernie, or
Nelson
Welcome to Nelson! There is so much amazing riding here to be had, both on and off-road. Here’s a selection of things you can ride,
Koch Creek Pass
The trip up over Koch Creek Pass is a local classic. Can be used as as a fun shortcut between Fauquier Ferry and Highway 6
Buchanan Lookout
The Buchanan Lookout stands tall at 1,912 m (6,272 Ft) and offers stunning views of the Kootenay Lake, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Goat Range Provincial
Nakusp
Welcome to Nakusp! The village is a vibrant, safe and friendly lakeshore community nestled on the shores of Upper Arrow Lake in the West Kootenay