Experience a little piece of rural Canada! British Columbia’s West Kootenay is a special region of pristine lakes and snowcapped mountains. Located in the southeast corner of the province, the area is nestled in amongst the Selkirk, Monashee and Purcell Mountains. The region’s history comes alive as you pass through ghost towns where mining was king. The bike route will take you along the peaceful shores of Kootenay Lake before heading into the Valley of the Ghosts on your way to New Denver. You’ll ride along the shores of Slocan Lake, past artisan shops and galleries, via small villages and within Splendor sine occasu (British Columbia’s Latin motto: Splendor without diminishment). During the Silvery Slocan mining boom of the late 1800s, dreamers and schemers flocked to the area. Today, people come for the hot springs, to explore the historic mining memorabilia and for the relaxed atmosphere.

The tour starts in Nelson, the oldest city on the west side of the Kootenay Rockies region. Nelson saw a huge surge in its population when two prospectors discovered silver there in 1886. Here in “The Queen City”, you’ll find elaborate mansions, impressive heritage buildings, a lively downtown with great restaurants and in July and August, the annual Art Walk, which gives tribute to Nelson as a respected cultural center. Kaslo is known for its Jazz Festival in August as well as its great natural beauty. The small town of New Denver sits along the shores of Slocan Lake. During World War II, Japanese Canadians were interned here and there is a museum dedicated to this history. There is also the opportunity to swim in the hot springs of Ainsworth.