Canadian Rockies | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe Canadian Rockies | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe Explore the Birthplace of Adventure, an all-season outdoor activity hub in the heart of four mountain ranges.
Steeped in mountain culture
The Birthplace of Adventure in southeastern BC is where it all started, from the invention of heli-skiing to thrilling singletrack bike trails that make headlines. With more than 60 national and provincial parks and four mountain ranges, the Birthplace of Adventure is the ultimate all-season hub for outdoor recreation.
Mount Revelstoke National Park | Ryan Creary 10 must do hikes
Must-do hikes in southeast British Columbia that lead to alpine peaks, waterfalls, and glacial lakes in the Birthplace of Adventure.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort | Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton A guide to ski resorts in the off season
Four mountain ranges, including the Canadian Rockies, make the Birthplace of Adventure a hotspot for mountain adventures during the spring, summer, and fall months.
Golden | Destination BC/Ryan Creary Five great whitewater rivers
From spring to fall, rivers in the Birthplace of Adventure deliver some of the most thrilling whitewater paddling around. Here are five top rivers.
Hot springs circle route
5-10 Days851.52 km | 529 miJourney from enchanting hot springs to rugged mountain wilderness on this magical circle route.
Halcyon Hot Springs Resort | Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton A road trip through the Rocky and Purcell mountains in the Birthplace of Adventure
7-10 days600 km | 372 miEnjoy outdoor adventure and unforgettable scenery along this driving route from Cranbrook to Golden.
Fernie | Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton Exploring the Rocky Mountain Trench: From Fernie to Golden
3-6 Days323 km | 200 miFind adventure and relaxation in the Canadian Rockies.
Morrissey Ridge near Fernie | Kari Medig
Travel Ideas
Rugged routes and road trips
Pack up your adventure toys and road trip through mountain passes, linked by lively mountain towns and natural hot springs. Stop in at year-round resorts, whitewater river runs, and storied trails along the way. Start with one of these curated itineraries.
CastlegarA mountain community with deep cultural heritage, a thriving art scene, and outdoor adventures for all.
Cranbrook | Kari Medig CranbrookA base camp to the Kootenay Rockies, the small mountain community is at the intersection of culture and outdoor recreation.
CrestonThis small agricultural community blends farm-to-table food with outdoor adventures.
FernieThis vibrant and cultured Kootenay community embraces art, cuisine, and a thirst for outdoor activities.
Credit: Kootenay Rockies Tourism | Mitch Winton GoldenLocated at the heart of six national parks, this charming mountain town is home to serious alpinists, great food, and diverse wildlife.
NelsonSmall city with a big personality in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains.
RevelstokeA year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts, where nature meets small town charm.
Credit: Destination BC | Steve Ogle 
SparwoodThe most easterly town in BC, just west of the Continental Divide.
TrailA small town on the banks of the Columbia River delivers on a combination of history, natural beauty, food and entertainment.
NakuspNestled on the shores of Arrow Lakes, Nakusp is known for hot springs and outdoor activities.
Radium Hot SpringsThe western gateway to Kootenay National Park and a haven for mineral hot springs.
Birthplace of Adventure
Jasmin Caton Frequently asked questions
Want to know more about visiting the Birthplace of Adventure? Find out when to go, where to stay, and what activities to do on your next visit.
- Most of the area is within a two- to four-hour drive from major airports. Fly into Cranbrook (YXC), Kelowna (YLW) or Calgary (YYC), then rent a car. If you’re travelling via the United States, fly into Spokane (GEG) and pick up a rental.
- The Birthplace of Adventure earns its name from a high concentration of outdoor recreation, more than 60 national and provincial parks, and legendary terrain across four ranges. Southeast BC also lays claim to several distinctions: heli-skiing was invented here, the town of Rossland was named Canada’s Mountain Biking Capital by Explore Magazine, and several major parks form part of UNESCO-recognized Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. Today, the Birthplace of Adventure is among North America’s top all-season outdoor adventure hubs.
- Throughout the year, there are many outdoor activities to do in the Birthplace of Adventure. Hit the mountain biking and alpine hiking trails in warmer months. The many lakes and rivers in southeast BC are also popular for fishing, paddleboarding, and whitewater kayaking. Book a guided tour with experts who can show you the best places to go and help you level up your skills. Every day can begin or end with a soak in the mineral hot springs sprinkled throughout the Birthplace of Adventure. Come winter, the famed Powder Highway brings you to ski resorts, backcountry lodges, and rugged mountain communities.
- The Birthplace of Adventure has four mountain ranges. From east to west, they are: the Canadian Rockies, Purcells, Selkirks, and Monashees.
- You can visit the Birthplace of Adventure year round. With 60 national and provincial parks and outdoor-oriented communities, this all-season activity hub has adventure on full supply. Visit in winter for ski resorts, heli-skiing, backcountry touring and other cold weather activities. Spring is a great time to experience the powerful whitewater rapids and valley trails. Summers are prime for mountain biking, hiking, and paddling. During fall, the golden larches near Nelson, Kimberley, and Radium Hot Springs appear for just a few weeks, adding a splash of colour to your late-season hike.
Bugaboos | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe 
St Eugene Golf Resort | Kari Medig 
Glacier National Park | Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton A deeper connection
Indigenous teachings remind us of our deep connection to nature and responsibility to care for it. These are the homelands of the Ktunaxa people and the lands of the Secwépemc, Sinixt and syilx/Okanagan people.
A hiker walks past by Assiniboine Lodge cabins