Adventure Runs in the Family
Family adventures in the South Kootenay don’t require a complicated itinerary, matching technical jackets or a child who is thrilled about hiking uphill. There are beaches, parks, playgrounds, skateparks, swimming pools, rec centres, a climbing gym, easy trails, bike routes, fishing spots and plenty of places to stop for snacks. And because the region runs from warm river valleys to snowy mountain tops, there’s almost always somewhere to play outside — whatever the season or the attention span.
Winter
With the arrival of snow comes a whole new slew of activities to choose from. The South Kootenay has something for everyone. Take the family outside and ski or snowboard at RED, cross-country ski at Black Jack or at the Paulson, fat bike through the snowy forests or simply find a hill and go for a slide. If you prefer the warmth of indoor activities, local rec centres and arenas provide plenty of activity options when everyone needs to thaw out, while climbing gyms, skating rinks, libraries and community programs keep the fun going when the weather turns properly Kootenay.
Spring
Spring is when the South Kootenay gets you going! You can still ski at the higher elevations, while lower in the valley the temperatures are warming up for biking, hiking and fishing. Trails start drying out, rivers get lively with snowmelt and the days get longer, making it possible to pack a surprising amount into one weekend. Ski in the morning, bike in the afternoon, argue about bedtime at dinner. That’s spring in the Kootenays.
Summer
Summer is when the whole region heads outside. Spend the day swimming and building sandcastles at one of the many nearby beaches, cast a line into the Columbia, load up the bikes for a family-friendly trail or head into the mountains for a hike. Camping gives you an easy excuse to stay a little longer, while the communities throughout the South Kootenay offer parks, splash pads, skateparks, shops, ice cream and plenty of places to refuel. The hardest part might be convincing everyone it’s time to go home.
Fall
Fall is when the South Kootenay starts showing off. The larches turn gold, the mornings get crisp and the higher mountains begin collecting their first snow while the valleys are still warm enough for hiking, biking, fishing and exploring. It’s a particularly good time for families who like having options — snowball fights up high, T-shirts down low isn’t entirely out of the question. Add fall fairs, markets, scenic drives and quiet trails, and there’s plenty to do before winter arrives.
Dog Friendly Fun
In the South Kootenay, four-legged adventurers are very much part of the family. From mountain trails and riverside paths to snowy routes in winter, there are plenty of places across Rossland, Trail, Warfield, Montrose, Fruitvale and the surrounding areas to get out and explore with your pup. Hike through golden larches, splash in summer streams, sniff your way along a forest trail or bound through fresh snow — there’s no shortage of ways to wear out even the most energetic dog.
Need a few supplies for the adventure? Rossland’s locally owned House of Paws Pet Boutique or Trail’s Barks & Recreation has treats, toys and gear to keep the tails wagging.
