Nelson is a great place to be all year round, but in the summer we love to get out of town and explore! Lucky for us the surrounding areas are brimming with activities for families seeking unforgettable summer experiences. From day trips to full vacation opportunities, this charming region offers an array of kid-friendly activities that will keep the whole family entertained and create lasting memories. Here are eight exciting things to do with your family around Nelson’s North Shore:
1. Kokanee Creek Provincial Park
A 25 minute drive from Nelson a treasure trove of family-friendly activities awaits. Definitely stop by for the day, but if you have the time there’s enough activities at Kokanee Creek Park to merit a week-long camping trip. Besides your tent, we recommend bringing hiking shoes, bikes, paddle boards or kayaks (also available for rent at the park), and swim shorts!
Hike through evergreen forests to discover spectacular waterfalls, go for a refreshing swim in the lake, and don’t miss the opportunity to spot the kokanee salmon (and maybe a bear) during their annual spawning run between mid-August and mid-September. There’s several easy-medium trails to walk on, a massive sandy beach, two jungle gyms and an ice cream shop just two minutes up the road. It’s a fairly big park, so little ones will enjoy exploring by bike. There’s a great visitor centre to learn more about the natural wildlife, and a group camp site for large parties – bring the whole family!
Kokanee Park is also home to one of the few boat launches around Nelson, and the lake is a popular fishing destination. If you need supplies or lose your fishing rod you can find all you need just up the road at Gill & Gift – located at the Balfour Ferry terminal.
There’s really something for everyone at this amazing park.
2. Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park
The adventurers in the family should head across the highway to Kokanee Glacier Park. Partway up the road to the glacier lies a dense old-growth forest with winding trails leading past forest titans that have survived hundreds of years.
At the top of the road is a crystal-clear glacier pool that the brave have been known to swim in (careful, it’s chilly!). There’s a cabin here, which you need to book in advance, but there are some fun day-trails that lead even higher into the surrounding mountains. Pack a bagged lunch and visit B.C. at its most wild. Bring bear bells and loud friends if you plan to explore here.
3. Challenge Yourself with Geocaching
Engage your little adventurers in an empowering geocaching expedition. Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunting game that utilizes GPS technology, and is a really neat way to learn how to navigate and explore at the same time. Nelson and its surrounding areas have numerous geocache treasures hidden, waiting to be discovered. If you want a way to get your kids outside this summer, geocaching might be your new favourite summer activity!
4. Ainsworth Hot Springs
Kids and parents will both love a visit to Ainsworth Hot Springs, where they can experience the relaxation of soaking in the warm mineral pools. The hot springs’ cave is a rarity amongst hot springs, and adds an element of mystery and fun to this rejuvenating outing.
5. Cody Caves Provincial Park
Older kids will love exploring the incredible Cody Caves. Access to the caves is through a guided tour that winds through ancient limestone caverns, complete with awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites! If you’ve never tried spelunking this is a great place to start. It’s a surreal experience, but stay away from this one if you don’t like tight spaces or the dark.
6. Kokanee Mountain Zipline Adventure
If you love a good adrenaline rush, take a zip-lining tour through the treetops of the Kootenays. Flying through and above the trees at speeds up to 70 km/h, we’re confident you’ll get a perspective on the Kootenays you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, your kids will love watching you scream, so don’t hold back here.
7. Fletcher Falls
Fletcher Falls, located near Kaslo, BC, is a breathtaking natural attraction tucked between the forest and a perfect swimming beach. The water cascades down a series of rocky ledges, creating a mesmerizing display of water and mist. Accessible by a scenic hiking trail, the journey to Fletcher Falls is an adventure in itself, rewarding hikers with captivating views along the way.
The tranquil ambiance of the area makes it an ideal spot for picnics or simply immersing oneself in nature. The beach is just past the falls, and is a mix of sand and small pebbles, but is a fun place to spend the day in and around the water. You may have driven right by this hidden gem on your way to Kaslo – it’s well worth a stop.
8. Take the Ferry Across Kootenay Lake
The Kootenay Lake ferry is the longest free ferry in the world, clocking in at 35 minutes. Sailings depart every about once every hour, so keep an eye on the schedule. If you miss a sailing, there are boutique shops and several casual dining options around the terminal, as well as a small sandy beach to keep everybody entertained while you wait.
On the other side are several small communities to explore. Crawford Bay is brimming with artisans, blacksmiths, and a great pub. There’s also hiking, mountain biking, and even a winery to explore.
Head up to Riondel for a round of golf, grab a specialty latte at Ro Neighbourhood Coffee, and visit the aptly named Pebble Beach for an awesome day outdoors.
Pilot Bay Provincial Park is also worth a trip across. Hike to the lighthouse, take a swim in the clear, crisp water, and stop for a picnic in one of the park’s well-maintained picnic areas.
We love living in the Kootenays, and there’s so much to explore in each area. Get out and show some love to the North Shore this summer!
Have a favourite activity in your area? Send us a message and we’ll include it in a future article! In the meantime, subscribe to our email list for more articles on fun things to do in the Kootenays.
