The Kootenay Rockies region in the southeast corner of British Columbia, Canada is epically known as BC’s Mountain Playground. And, we offer some of the best road trips in Canada.
#1 – Unwind along the Hot Springs Route
Wedged into the rocky and remote creases of these stunning mountains are natural hot springs that soothe, inspire and rejuvenate. Drive along quiet, tree-lined lakeshores where wonderful resorts, natural caves and mountainous settings leave a lasting impression. Venture along this route and enjoy the therapeutic warm, mineral rich water at some of the most enticing natural hot springs in the province.
#2 – Ski/Ride the Powder Highway
British Columbia’s Kootenay Rockies is home to the POWDER HIGHWAY®, where deep snow, funky towns, and adventure-packed ski resorts in North America exist. Throw in some of the world’s most renowned heli-skiing and cat-skiing operations, as well as highly-coveted backcountry lodges and this area of BC stands out as one of the premier ski destinations.
#3 – Explore British Columbia’s Rainforest to Rockies
Via Highway 1 (The Trans-Canada) – Embark on a captivating road trip that takes you from the Pacific Ocean to the Canadian Rockies. Travel along the TransCanada Highway 1 through cities and towns, alongside lakes and forests, through Mount Revelstoke, Glacier & Yoho National Parks and witness BC’s highlights and highest peaks.
Via Highway 3 (The Crowsnest) – Follow a road less travelled that connects the forest-fringed city of Vancouver to the rugged mountain town of the Elk Valley (Fernie, Sparwood & Elkford). The scenic drive crosses plunging canyons, arid desert and wine country before reaching the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Venture down this gem of a route to connect with Indigenous cultures, sample farm-to-table cuisine and get a glimpse of fascinating BC history – all set against incredible nature-scapes.
#4 – Embrace the Vibrant Fall Colours
Autumn is such a magical season and it carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons. The Kootenay Rockies region is famous for its beautiful falls. Discover the one of a kind colourful scenes. Each community features a popular area that showcases fall colours.
#5 – Follow the Scenic West Koot Route
Quiet roads that twist through the heart of the British Columbia wilderness. Dense forests that yield to rising rock and glacier-scoured summits where only the bravest mountaineers have ventured. A place to be respected and admired. Stunning backcountry beauty – around every corner on the West Koot Route – is the norm. Soak in it. Stop for a hike, paddle a perfect lake, fling a fly in a trout-filled stream and find your little patch of paradise in the West Kootenays.
#6 – Sip & Savour the Kootenay Ale Trails
Explore British Columbia’s bounty of craft beer with the BC Ale Trail. Explore stouts and snow-capped peaks, brown ales and beaches, or bikes and hikes that lead to a tasting room. The suggested self-guided tours showcase the rich and vibrant craft beer scene.
In addition to these six road trip, check out details about these additional Kootenay Road Trips!
