A short and scenic 90 minute drive from Banff, the Columbia Valley lies within "The Valley of a Thousand Peaks"' located between the Rocky Mountains and the Purcell Mountain Range in British Columbia's Kootenay-Rockies region.
The natural beauty and resources in the Columbia Valley's landscape are assets that provide for vibrant tourism/hospitality and natural resources sectors in value-added manufacturing, agriculture and food processing, professional services, construction and retail. The Columbia Valley's mild climate, plentiful recreation activities and family friendly communities make it the ultimate place to call home.
Columbia River:
Brisco and Spillimacheen- located in what is primarly farming and ranching country with some forestry and tourism. These two charming communities are located north of Radium Hot Springs on Highway 95. Dive into a wealth of outdoor recreation with the nearby Bugaboo Provincial Park.
Golden- located in Kicking Horse Country on the Trans Canada Highway where the Columbia and Kicking Horse Rivers meet. Golden has emerged into a lively town. Banff, Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay and Yoho National Parks are all within an easy drive from Golden. World class ski resort Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, River Rafting and Golf Courses are located all within a short drive from Golden.
Edgewater- 11km north of Radium Hot Springs on Hghway 95, along the perimerter of Kootenay National Park. Agriculture, forestry and tourism contribute to the economy of the area.
Radium Hot Springs- one of the best mountain vacation destination, bordering the scenic Kootenay National Park and only a 3-hour drive from Calagary. You will want to realx in the world famous Radium Hot Springs mineral pools. A short drive to Panorama Mountain Ski Resort, Lake Windermere and home to the Radium Golf Resort and the Radium Springs Golf Course.
Invermere Area:
Invermere on Lake Windermere- located at the north end of Lake Windermere, Invemere is the economic centre of the Columbia River Valley. A year round tourism destination with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The charming downtown area is inviting you to boutique style shopping and to enjoy just short walks to the beaches. Invermere is ideal for families as there are great schools including the campus of the College of the Rockies.
Panorama Mountain Resort- Just a short 15min drive from Invermere, Panorama Mountain Resort is a popular ski and golf destination. The resort is a major contributer to the valley's economic assets with visitors coming from the international travel market.
Windermere on Lake Windermere- A charming small community on the lake with public beaches and lake access. High percentage of second home ownership and major contributor to the valley's Cabin Industry.
Wilmer- Just a short drive from Invermere is the community of Wilmer situated high above the Columbia Valley Wetlands overlooking the beautiful scenery of nature and wildlife. Wilmer is a growing community, locals access work in the valley and enjoy just short drives to beautiful backcountry lakes.
Columbia Lake:
Fairmont Hot Springs- Another mineral hot springs in the valley to visit. Fairmont is located at the north side of Columbia Lake and includes the communitites of Dutch Creek and Columere Park. Enjoy the family ski-hill in the winter and soak afterwards in the largest mineral pools in Canada. Fairmont is home to incredible Golf Courses and is a great base to many mountain adventures.
Canal Flats- At the south end of Columbia Lake, offering a beautiful public beach, boat launch, great backcountry access and a growing community with a K-7 Elementary School.
Cranbrook Area:
Kimberley- Historically a mining community with a touch of Bavarian alpine theme in the downtown Platzl. Also called the "City of Festivals", Kimberley has establisehd itself as a stunning four season tourism destination. Kimberley offers some of the most sunshine and snowfall in the East Kootenays. Kimberley Alpine Resort and Golf Courses are just a short drive from the Platzl.
Cranbrook- The City of Cranbrook is the largest community in the East Kootenays offering shopping centres and industrial manufacturing. The newly updated downtown area is featuring great restaurants and provides easy acces to parks, hospital and schools.
Wasa on Wasa Lake- About a 30 minunte drive south from Canal Flats is the town of Wasa. Offering a small community on the lake and a tremendous recreational lifestyle. Locals are mostly employed in Cranbrook and Wasa is home to a large retirement population. The lake is nestled between the town and the majestic Rocky Mountains, providing spectacular views.
