Built on the confluence of two major rivers, Castlegar is filled with the rich colours of nature and packed with interesting places to explore, especially if you’re looking for something to do with kids. With one-of-a-kind parks, swimming holes, and endless destinations to hike to, Castlegar is a great place to take your family for an outdoor experience that’ll have everyone engaged.
Zuckerberg Island
There’s so much to explore at Zuckerberg Island! This island has historical significance as one of the area’s most visible First Nations Settlements, with signs of traditional pit houses scattered throughout the island. There’s numerous signs to learn about the island, plenty of wildlife to spot, and several great spots to picnic here. The island is honeycombed with trails, and fisherman can occasionally be spotted by the Columbia casting lures for the many kinds of fish that inhabit this stretch of the river.
Continue around the island and find the historic home of Alexander Zuckerberg, constructed in Russian Orthodox Chapel style. Now it serves as a museum, and a centrepiece for the park. Scattered throughout the island are several of Zuckerberg’s sculptures, as well as a small cemetery that marks the Zuckerberg family’s resting place.
Bring bug spray, especially in the evening.
Splash Park
For little ones, there’s no better place to cool off than the Kinsmen Spray Park. On a hot summer day, this park will be filled with the sounds of delighted children challenging themselves and each other to run through the spray. There’s a jungle gym here for kids to climb and slide down that will keep kids entertained all afternoon. It’s also close to downtown, so grab a bite at one of the restaurants while you’re here!
Millenium Park Walkway & Playground, Bike Park
Millennium Park is a treasure with walking and biking paths, grassy fields, and an absolutely awesome play structure for the kids! Don’t let the pictures fool you, it’s massive enough to keep even the most skeptical kids entertained for hours. Pair that with the 4 acre bike park, river access for swimming and fishing, and a gentle walking trail that ends at Zuckerberg Island and you’re all set for a fantastic afternoon of outdoor fun!
There’s food available at the covered concession (ice cream, burgers, fries, milkshakes, slushies etc) to keep the whole family fuelled up all day. The swimming ponds are available, but sometimes closed due to bacteria outbreaks, so if you’re looking for a place to cool off, continue down the pathway about 5 minutes and you’ll find a beautiful alcove continually filled with fresh water from the Columbia. It might be a bit chilly compared to the shallow ponds, but it’s crystal clear and perfectly refreshing on a sunny day.
Beaches
If you’re looking to hit the beach this Summer, Castlegar has some pretty diverse options within a 20 minute drive. Swim in the smaller surrounding lakes or right on the Columbia River. If you love to swim, you’ll love our article outlining the best beaches around Castlegar!
Family Friendly Hikes & Walks
Looking for things to do with kids in Castlegar? How about an adventure! 🥾
Destination Waterfalls
When it comes to hiking with kids, it sometimes helps to have an exciting destination in mind. How about a trip to one of the area’s many waterfalls! Here’s a whole article outlining waterfalls you can visit with your family.
Waldie Island Trail
Snaking from Brilliant to Robson by way of Waldie Island, this path will take you along the outer shore of Castlegar. Its relatively consistent altitude makes this a path both kids and adults will enjoy. There’s even a reservoir near the train bridge with a viewing platform where you can observe several species of birds that makes for a fun pit stop.
Bring a fishing rod, you’re almost guaranteed to see a few fish jump while you’re walking here!
Merry Creek
Merry Creek is just 5 minutes from town, but it feels like you’ve really stepped into nature here. A quiet woodsy stroll along the needle covered path might be just what the family needs to unwind from a busy day. The trees provide consistent shade to keep you cool, and there’s enough variety of scenery that kids will stay engaged along the way.
If your family is into mountain biking, there are some great trails in the top part of the park. The lower trails are walking only, pictured above.
Millennium Park Walkway
If you’re in need of a quick, accessible walk, there’s no better place than the waterfront walkway at Millennium Park. Walk along the water in either direction, or take the path all the way up to Zuckerberg for a 40 minute out-and-back that’s full of interesting attractions along the way.
Enjoying our list of things to do with kids in Castlegar? That’s just the start. Check out our list of family friendly indoor activities in Castlegar. For activity ideas for all seasons, click here!
