The May long weekend has come and gone, and summer in BC has unofficially started. That means it’s time decide which tourist attractions in BC you’ll visit in the coming months. If you happen to be travelling to the Kootenays, there are a number of parks that should be on your radar.

Whether you’re pulling an RV with a boat and all of your toys, or all you’ve got is your hiking boots, tent, backpack and a compass, there’s something for everyone, including:

• Families
• Backcountry hikers
• Outdoor motorsports enthusiasts
• Action adventure junkies

For starters, there are three main parks in the Kootenays that feature full-service RV sites, perfect for the family:

 

1. Champion Lakes Provincial Park, Salmo

Surrounded by a chain of three lakes, this park has all of the amenities you need for a fun camping experience, including:

• Fishing
• Canoeing
• Hiking
• Mountain biking
• Swimming

 

2. Syringa Provincial Park, near Castlegar

Its close proximity to Lower Arrow Lake makes Syringa Provincial Park one of the top tourist attractions in BC for families wanting a convenient, comfortable base to explore the area. Along with fun on the water, tourists can visit the Doukhobor Discovery Centre in Castlegar.

 

3. Kokanee Creek Provincial Park

With three campsites and a long stretch of sandy beach along Kootenay Lake, Kokanee Creek Park is a summer paradise. And while it has a remote feeling, you’re actually within driving distance of many other BC attractions, including:

• Ainsworth Hot Springs
• Balfour Golf Club
• SS Moyie National Historic Site

And for thrill seekers, Kokanee Montain Zipline is just a few kilometres up Kokanee Glacier Park Road. A zip line tour here takes about two to three hours, with some of the highlights including:

• Longest zip line: 2,400 feet
• Highest point about Kokanee Creek canyon: 300 feet
• Fastest zip line: up to 100 km/h

There are also a number of other spectacular parks in the Kootenay Mountains aimed at those who prefer an outdoors experience without the amenities of a full-service campground.

 

4. Kokanee Glacier Park

This popular park offers numerous hiking trails and camping areas for people of all levels. From the leisurely loop around Gibson Lake, to peaks and traverse routes best left to the expert mountaineers, you’ll find something to match your ability.

In particular, the Alpine Club of Canada maintains trio of cabins, including:

• Kokanee Glacier
• Woodbury
• Silver Spray

It’s important to note that reservations are recommended in you want a bed to sleep in.

To learn more about things to do around this area, check out our post: High Elevations Around Kokanee Glacier Park, on or off Your Feet.

 

5. Valhalla Provincial Park

With the diverse topography, the Valhallas are a unique camping opportunity for the outdoor adventurer. Located near Slocan, the campground offers everything from boating and beaches to short hikes and full-blown wilderness treks.

 

Looking for a fun, exciting summer outing in the West Kootenays? Visit Kokanee Mountain Zipline to learn why we’re becoming one of the top tourist attractions in BC.