Big peaks, small towns: Feel the warmth of mountain culture

Also known as Invermere-on-the-Lake, Invermere is located in the heart of the Columbia River Valley on Lake Windermere, which transforms into a 34-km (21-mi) winter skating path. Wedged between the Canadian Rockies to the east and Purcell Mountains to the west, the town is a gateway to paddling, whitewater rafting, and tranquil beach days. Trace the paddle strokes of voyageurs with Columbia River Paddle or search for waterfowl in the river delta. With 11 championship golf courses on the doorstop, and unique hikes like the Hoodoo Trail, you’ll have no shortage of dramatic valley views. In town, pop into art galleries and colourful boutiques, or enjoy a bite at indie eateries.

A heritage mining town in the mountains, Kimberley is designed with a quaint Bavarian-inspired aesthetic. Wander The Platzl, a pedestrian-only street downtown with over 50 local eateries and shops. Here, you’ll find the World’s Largest Free-Standing Cuckoo Clock, where town mascot Happy Hans pops out to yodel. Take to the trails at Kimberley Nature Park for hiking and biking, or visit the Kimberley Underground Mining Railway for tours, exhibits, and demonstrations.

You might be surprised to learn that this mountain town is known for its wine. Nestled between the Purcells and Selkirks near the US border, the Creston Valley is a lush agricultural pocket in the midst of rugged mountain terrain. Here, along scenic Highway 3, you’ll find two breweries, three cideries, a distillery, and four wineries, including Skimmerhorn Winery & Vineyard. Experience nine tasting areas on the annual Hop to Vine Hustle, a run that culminates in craft tastings and a party. Nature is never far in Creston. A town favourite is the Ka Papa Cedars Trail, a low-elevation, 1.7-km (1-mi) route that winds through old-growth trees. In the Ktunaxa language, Ka Papa means “my grandfather,” a name with deep respect for the towering giants.

Life revolves around the river in Castlegar, a town perched at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay rivers in the Selkirk Mountains. During the warmer months, this is a haven for fishing, alpine hikes, and biking. Rock climbers and boulderers will also find their place in the crags and rock faces on the outskirts of town. And with three lakes on the doorstep, stand-up paddling and kayaking are also on the itinerary. Stroll through the heritage streets of Castlegar and take the self-guided SculptureWalk to see why the town is known as Canada’s Sculpture Capital. The Doukhobor Discovery Centre has more than 1,600 artifacts and displays that share the story of settlers who helped shape the town’s identity.

Perched on Upper Arrow Lake, the quaint village of Nakusp was once a bustling steamboat port during its mining era. Today, it’s a year-round haven for natural hot springs and a heli-skiing and snowmobiling hotspot in the winter. Stay, dine, and soak in the elegant Halcyon Hot Springs Resort & Spa overlooking the lake. Nakusp Hot Springs, Chalets & Campground has a rustic community feel, while Halfway River Hot Springs is set in the remote wilderness. In downtown Nakusp, feel the local vibe at indie coffee shops and stroll the lakeshore walkway to learn about the town’s past. Spend a night or two at the historic Leland Hotel and Restaurant, the oldest operating hotel in British Columbia.  

Nakusp joins a string of around 20 communities nestled in the Arrow Lakes and Slocan Valley in the Selkirk and Monashee mountains between Revelstoke and Nelson. Drive south toward New Denver and Silverton, where you can visit Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre, a tribute to Japanese-Canadians who were forcibly interned here during the Second World War. Meanwhile, the historic ghost town of Sandon is a window into the mining history of days gone by.