Arrow Slocan Regional Guide

Edgewood • Fauquier • Burton • Arrow Park • Nakusp Halcyon • Summit Lake • Hills • New Denver • Silverton Sandon • Rosebery • Slocan • Lemon Creek • Appledale Winlaw • Passmore • South Slocan

arrowslocan.com

Photo: Jesse Schpakowski

Arrow Slocan Regional Guide

Explore beyond the boundaries and get to know us.

A place to slow down and take it all in. Simply unplug or rekindle the adventurous spirit. Whether it’s outdoor adventure, a quiet getaway, arts, culture, or a dive into the region’s eclectic history, put together a trip that will keep you coming back.

Find Us: Arrow Lakes and Slocan Valley – Arrow Slocan. Located in the West Kootenay of British Columbia, the region starts on upper Arrow Lake at Edgewood, covering over to Nakusp, north to Halcyon, and south down the Slocan Valley to Playmor Junction. @visitarrowslocan @ArrowSlocan @visitarrowslocan

Tag us on social media @visitarrowslocan Let us know your favourite #ArrowSlocan experience.

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Arrow Slocan Regional Guide 2022/23

Contents 4

RECREATION

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COMMUNITIES

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PLAN YOUR VISIT

20

ATTRACTIONS

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ARTS & CULTURE

31

EAT & DRINK

33

SHOPPING

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TRAVEL TIPS

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SEE & DO HIGHLIGHTS

Find more regional information: arrowslocan.com 3

RECREATION With two valleys to choose from, it’s just a matter of deciding where to start. Outdoor adventure is on the doorstep. With more to explore in each season, it’s all there for the taking. arrowslocan.com/experiences

Mountain Bike Arrow Slocan’s characterfilled communities, together with the surrounding mountains, rivers and lakes shape a destination to be explored.

Arrow Slocan is chock full of cycling options. Where else will you find handbuilt mountain bike trails and over 100 km of stunning rail trails?

Mt. Abriel is a booming mountain bike destination near Nakusp, complete with multiple trails, a campground, bike park, and shelters. Rail trails run almost the entire length of the corridor between Nakusp and Crescent Valley beside lakes, rivers and through multiple communities. Bring your wheels, stay and explore a while.

Golf Arrow Slocan is home to four scenic nine hole golf courses. Sink into the region’s relaxing rural charm playing a round and enjoying mountain, lake or river views. The beautiful Slocan Valley is home to the Valley View Golf Course and Slocan Lake Golf Club. The Nakusp Golf Club and Fauquier course overlook Arrow Lakes.

4 Mt. Abriel, Nakusp

Water Sports

The region is a hiker’s paradise, with excursions for families to unstoppable backcountry adventurers. Find mellow strolls on valley bottom rail trails, scenic views on waterfront paths, multiday hikes or high alpine backcountry expeditions. There are hikes to suit any level of adventure.

Arrow Slocan’s scenic lakes and rivers make the region a paddler’s dream. Paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing are great ways to enjoy the water, especially on Slocan Lake. Motorized boats are popular on Arrow Lake.

Cycle Spin your way through our valleys.

The recipe for great cycling trips is simple – quiet roads, inspiring scenery, convenient amenities and surprising discoveries along the way.

Road riding in Arrow Slocan ticks all the boxes and then some.

Recreation

Hike

A number of operators can set you up with the equipment and advice you need to get on the water safely.

Boat launches are available in the area to help you get your vessel in the water.

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Recreation

Nordic Ski Valhalla Hills Nordic Ski Club - The 11 km of groomed trails are ideal for both skate and classic ski. A 5 km groomed section of the rail trail heading north from Hills is accessed via Reibin Road and also maintained by the Club.

Sandon’s K&S Trail - The Sandon end of the rail trail is groomed for 3km from the warming hut at Sandon Rail Station to just past the historical Altoona Mine.

Wensley Creek - The 8.2 km of groomed trails and warming hut are located about 5 km east of Nakusp off Highway 6.

Arrow Slocan has two nordic ski areas plus groomed scenic trails to provide many kilometers of winter exploration.

Snowshoe

6 Valhalla Hills Nordic

Snowshoeing is a great way to get out and enjoy the stillness of nature.

Convenient trails in the region cater to snowshoers, while extensive mountainous terrain offer unlimited options. Popular trails include the Jackrabbit Trail at Wensley Creek, Vicky’s View off Hot Springs Rd and Kuskanax Creek Trail from the Nakusp Hot Springs.

Recreation

Downhill Ski Summit Lake Ski Hill offers a skiing and boarding experience for the whole family. The terrain and tube park mean fun outside of the typical downhill.

Near the base of the ski area there is a loop for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. The rental shop has ski packages to get you out on the hill.

Normal days of operation are Wednesday to Sunday and Friday nights.

Snowmobile Arrow Slocan has three riding areas – Harlow Mountain and Ingersol near Nakusp and also the Norns, Ladybird and Goose Creek areas at the south end of Slocan Valley.

The Arrow Lake Ridge Riders snowmobile club maintain the Nakusp area trails. The Castlegar Snowmobile Association grooms over 70 kms of trails and maintains the Shaw, Ladybird, and Frosty’s Cabins in their riding area.

7 Summit Lake Ski Hill

Winter is the perfect time to explore.

XC ski or snowshoe through Arrow Slocan and enjoy the snow capped scenery along the way.

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In the villages, historic downtowns shape the small town feel. Winlaw, Slocan, Silverton, New Denver and Nakusp are host to a collection of small businesses and stores that add local colour to these community’s main streets.

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Slocan was once a boisterous boomtown packed with hotels, saloons and miners in pursuit of striking it rich. The village is now a peaceful town at the south end of Slocan Lake filled with gold-rush era architecture, fantastic recreation and breathtaking views. Located 69 km from Nelson and 78 km from Nakusp, arriving in Slocan City from either direction brings you by the stunning natural vistas of either Slocan River’s edge or the cliffs of Slocan Lake.

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The paired villages of New Denver and Silverton are home to 650 people nestled on the shores of Slocan Lake, framed by the stunning peaks of the Selkirk Mountain Range.

Both communities boast carefully restored historical downtowns. Quaint neighbourhood streets are lined with charming heritage homes and lead to public parks and beaches. New Denver and Silverton are connected by a scenic 5-minute drive and are just 40 minutes south from Nakusp. The ghost town of Sandon is a short drive up Highway 31A.

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Kildare St.

A history worth exploring.

5th St.

Belle vu e

Silverton & New Denver

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Dewis Park

Jospehine St.

The inviting village on the shores of Upper Arrow Lake, is found between the magnificent Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges. The largest of the Arrow Slocan communities, Nakusp is an oasis of arts and culture, with the relaxation of two hot spring resorts and inspiring natural vistas around every corner. Nakusp is a stunning 146 km drive from Nelson through the Slocan Valley or 105 km from Revelstoke, a route that includes a free ride on the Arrow Lakes Ferry.

Leadville St.

Josephine St.

The largest little town.

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Winlaw is a small, funky community of 400 people on the eastern bank of the winding Slocan River. Truly mid-valley, Winlaw is 49 km north-west of Nelson or Castlegar and 97 km south of Nakusp with the center of ‘town’ nestled on either side of Highway 6.

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Galena Ave.

NEW DENVER

PLAN YOUR VISIT New Denver Visitor Center • Open seasonally • Located at: 202-6th Ave. (Main street and Bellevue), New Denver • In summer, call 250-358-2719 for information

No matter which way you are driving, there is a road leading here.

Nakusp Visitor Center • Open seasonally • Located at: 92 6th Ave. NW Box 387 Nakusp, BC V0G 1R0 • Call: (250) 265-4234 (main) or 1-800- 909-8819 (toll free) arrowslocan.com/visitor-information

Mountain Valley Station 704 Arlington Rd. Slocan, BC Phone: 250-355-2245 Email: mountainvalleystation@telus.net Propane • Gas • Diesel • Convenience Store • ATM • Fishing Licenses Bait/Tackle • Encorp Bottle Depot • Purolator • Ace Courier “Your Little Store With More For Less”

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Arrow Slocan is connected to the north, south, east and west via Highway 3, 3A, 6, 23, 31 and 31A. Travel time may vary by season and road condition. Know before you go and leave yourself enough time to get to your destination safely.

Gas is available at Crescent Valley, Slocan Park, Winlaw, New Denver, Edgewood and two locations in Nakusp.

There is no 24 hour gas station in Arrow Slocan. Check individual retailers for open hours.

Road Conditions To Nakusp Nelson Castlegar Calgary Revelstoke Spokane Trail Vernon Vancouver

146 km 146 km 513 km 105 km 378 km 171 km 194 km 634 km

1 hr 50 min 1 hr 50 min 6 hr 15 min 1 hr 45 min 4 hr 45 min 2 hr 10 min 1 hr 45 min 7 hr 30 min

Know before you go. Road conditions change with the seasons. Plan for a safe trip. Drive BC offers reliable road condition information. drivebc.ca

To Playmor Junction Nelson Nakusp Castlegar Calgary New Denver Revelstoke Spokane Trail Vancouver

22 km 125 km 23 km 630 km 80 km 230 km 255 km 49 km 638 km

20 minutes 1 hr 30 min 20 minutes 6 hr 55 min 1 hour 3 hr 15 min 3 hr 15 min 35 minutes 7 hr 25 min

To New Denver Nelson Castlegar Calgary Revelstoke Spokane Trail Vancouver

100 km 100 km 558 km 151 km 332 km 125 km 679 km

1 hr 15 min 1 hr 15 min 6 hr 40 min 2 hr 15 min 4 hr 10 min 1 hr 40 min 8 hours

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Plan Your Visit

Travel by Vehicle

Plan Your Visit

Travel by Electric Vehicle

By Bus

While you’re practicing sustainable travel along the woodsy back roads, stop by a charming landmark and charge your car or get acquainted with our locally grown businesses.

Private bus lines provide service from out of the region. BC transit provides in-region service and connection between Nelson, Slocan Valley and Nakusp.

In region, electric car plugin locations currently include Slocan, Sandon, New Denver, Nakusp and Burton. Stations can also be found enroute in nearby Revelstoke, Kalso, Nelson and Castlegar.

Visit Plugshare for a map of all EV charging stations. plugshare.com

Driving an electric car through Arrow Slocan has its perks.

Silvercity Stagelines runs between Nelson and Kelowna. Choose this service to connect to the Kelowna airport.

Mountain Man Mike’s offers shuttles between Kaslo and Calgary or Vancouver, with stops along the way. Choose this service to connect to Kelowna, Vancouver, Cranbrook and Calgary airports.

EBus connects Kelowna with Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary. In Kelowna passengers can connect to the Silver City Stage Lines for travel to/ from Nelson.

Rider Express offer transport between Revelstoke and both Vancouver and Calgary.

Kootenay Gateway offers in and out of region travel options, such as charters, airport transfer to regional and out of region airports, ski resort transfers – even mountain biking shuttles or seasonal tours!

BC Transit service offers three routes: • Slocan Valley – Route 20 • Nakusp – Route 74 • Nakusp Hot Springs – Route 51

14 Needles Ferry

Plan Your Visit

Ferries Free ferries connect highways across the Arrow Lakes. Call (250) 265-2105 for more information.

The Needles Cable Ferry is 59 kms south of Nakusp on Highway 6, between Fauquier (east side) and Needles (west side).

• Crossing time: 5 minutes • Runs every 30 minutes between 5 am and 10 pm • From Fauquier on the hour and half hour • From Needles 15 minutes and 45 minutes past the hour • On demand 10 pm to 5 am

The Arrow Lake Ferry is 49 kms south of Revelstoke on Highway 23, between Shelter Bay (west side) and Galena Bay (east side).

• Crossing time: 20 minutes • Runs every 30 minutes between 5am and 12:30 am • First ferry from Shelter Bay is 5 am and last is midnight • First ferry from Galena Bay is 5:30 am and last ferry is 2:30 am

The Arrow Park Cable Ferry connects east and west Arrow Park, 22 km south of Nakusp on Highway 6.

• Crossing time: 5 minutes • Runs on demand from: 5 am – 12:05 pm 2:15 pm – 9:20 pm

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Plan Your Visit

Camping

Weather

The region is home to provincial parks, recreation sites and full amenity local campgrounds that make your stay hassle free. Campgrounds accommodate a range of vehicle and RV sizes, as well as spots made just for tents. arrowslocan.com/listing-category/ camping

Spring comes to the region in March and stays until May. Temperatures continue to warm through these months, starting with an average of between -1°C and 8°C and raising to between 6°C and 19°C in May. Summer extends between June and early September. Temperatures remain cooler in June, but then get as high as 40°C in July and August.

Autumn begins in September with temperatures cooling into the 20’s and below. October still experiences sunshine and warmer days. By November snow begins to hit the region.

Winter extends between December and March. Snow is typical in valley bottom, with temperatures often below zero or hovering just above.

Environment Canada has up to date weather information for Nakusp and New Denver.

Arrow Lakes

weather.gc.ca

Lemon Creek Campground

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Lemon Creek Pioneer Campground is located between Kokanee and Valhalla Provincial Parks in the beautiful Slocan Valley. We have a 26 site grass and treed campground, with 10 serviced sites, and 16 tenting sites.

Hot showers and WiFi is included in the price. Quiet and conveniently located close to hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, golfing.

7680 Kennedy Road, off Hwy 6, 9km south of Slocan Lake.

250 355 2547 | lemoncreekcampground.ca

Planning that special day or a large group getaway? Arrow Slocan has a number of venues and accommodation options that make this region the perfect host for your event. The mountains, lakes and stunning scenery provide the perfect backdrop for photos. The quiet rural setting creates the feeling of being away from it all.

Plan Your Visit

Weddings & Events

arrowslocan.com/listing-category/event-venues

The Ayrshire

Arrow Lakes Adventures

Lake Cruises and Charters in Nakusp, BC Come experience the beautiful Arrow Lakes with a family, sunset or private cruise on board our 26 foot Avalon Cantina tritoon!

250-265-4198 www.ArrowLakesAdventures.com Find us on Facebook or Instagram @

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Plan Your Visit Airports West Kootenay Regional Airport has regular scheduled service connecting Castlegar and Vancouver.

Pacific Coastal Airlines operates out of Trail Regional Airport, with regularly scheduled service between Trail and Vancouver. Charter options are available across BC and Western Canada.

There are three major airports within reasonable driving distance of Arrow Slocan to connect to international destinations: • Spokane International Airport – Washington, USA • Canadian Rockies International – Cranbrook, BC • Kelowna International – Kelowna, BC Hiring a rental car at the airport provides an easy travel option for onward journey to Arrow Slocan.

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Places to Stay As eclectic as the location. Arrow Slocan’s boutique accommodation adds a little spice and local culture to your stay. Find the perfect room as a staging area for your getaway, or accommodation with more amenities to create a self-contained stay.

Hotel stays are found in the larger centre of Nakusp. Air BnBs are dotted around the region. (www.airbnb.ca) One-of-a-kind accommodations help you find a stay at the location of your choosing. Camping is found at the four provincial parks, recreation sites and the region’s privately run campgrounds that offer excellent amenities. arrowslocan.com for more information on where to stay.

Nothing like finding that special place to call home for the time you are away.

Plan Your Visit

Adventure Domes Cosy, clean, and comfortable, these unique, self-contained cottages in New Denver are centrally located - the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty and the many activities of the West Kootenays.

Info@adventuredomes.ca www.adventuredomes.ca

Brouse Creek B&B

Enjoy the peace and quiet of this rural farm-like setting with adventure close by. A full breakfast with farm fresh eggs is provided.

Two accommodations 1) Two bedroom Cottage: self-contained, kitchenette, patio, BBQ and satellite TV 2) Single room: private entrance, self-contained, kitchenette, wheelchair accessible roll in shower, patio, BBQ and satellite TV. brousecreek.com or (250) 265-4625

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ATTRACTIONS Hot Springs Arrow Slocan is well known for its hot springs.

Unplug from the world and immerse yourself in the quiet and peaceful surroundings of our region. Halcyon Hot Springs and Nakusp Hot Springs are both conveniently located near Nakusp. Private hot spring accomodation options are also available.

Halcyon Hot Springs Resort A variety of exclusive accommodations are scattered throughout the serene forest that surround the hot springs and pool. All cabins, chalets and cottages are a short walk to the hot springs, spa and restaurant.

Nakusp Hot Springs Nestled in the Kuskanax Valley, two naturally fed hot spring pools can be enjoyed for the day, combined with a stay in one of the Cedar Chalets, or at the adjacent campground beside Kuskanax Creek. arrowslocan.com/experiences/hot-springs

20 Halcyon Hotsprings

Looking for the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate? You’ve come to the right place.

Attractions

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Parks Nothing like a night out under the stars? Pick from four provincial parks, recreation sites, or check into a private campground to enjoy all the amenities. Pair your camping trip with a hike, bike, paddle, or beach day to make it the ultimate outdoor getaway.

BC Parks is responsible for a system of ecological reserves, provincial parks, conservancies, protected areas and recreation areas located throughout BC.

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A variety of amenities are available in each of these areas. Some are day use only, others offer overnight camping. Arrow Slocan is home to four provincial parks:

• • • •

Rosebery Summit Lake McDonald Creek Valhalla

A few notable options include:

Slocan Beach Park, Slocan The waterfront park offers a sandy beach, roped off swimming area and grassy picnic space. Amenities include a boat launch and gazebo.

Nakusp Municipal Park The 12 acre park is home to the Sports Complex and Municipal Campground.

It also has tennis courts, playground, skateboard park, soccer and baseball fields, public beach, washrooms and gazebo. The beautiful Waterfront Walkway and the Wrap Around Nakusp Trail offer stunning views of the Arrow Lakes and surrounding areas.

Winlaw Nature Park The waterfront park is located on the Slocan River, 1 km north of the Winlaw Bridge. It features nature trails and boardwalks weaving though forest and marshes. The picnic and beach areas include a fire pit, picnic tables, benches, covered gazebo, outhouse and change room building.

Dewis Park, Silverton The park features a ball field, tennis court, bocce court, playground and outdoor curling rink that is iced during winter months. Picnic tables overlook Silverton Creek. Amenities include washrooms and drinking water. The park is near the in-town camping areas.

Rail Trails The rail trail network connects the Arrow Slocan north-south up the Slocan Valley to Nakusp and east to Three Forks, then further on to Sandon. These scenic trails showcase incredible only in Arrow Slocan scenery away from highways, through wilderness, past historical sites, next to roaring rivers and through charming communities. arrowslocan.com/experiences/rail-trails

Greer and Centennial Parks, New Denver The Mori Trail runs along New Denver’s waterfront connecting Greer and Centennial Parks. Centennial Park on the south side of Carpenter Creek surrounds the Municipal Campground with sports fields, swimming area, public boat launch, beach volleyball court, playground and gazebo.

Each of the region’s villages have parks and green spaces to enjoy.

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Attractions

Each of the region’s villages have parks and green spaces to enjoy. Check the village maps to see locations.

ARROW SLOCAN RAIL TRAILS Pick your route!

NAKUSP & SLOCAN RAIL TRAIL

The N&S connects Rosebery to Nakusp via the 46 km historic rail line built by the Nakusp & Slocan Rail Company in 1893. Multiple trailheads offer access.

The trail climbs gently from Nakusp to Summit Lake and then descends to Rosebery where it connects with the Galena Trail.

NAKUSP TRAILHEAD

NAKUSP BROUSE

Nakusp – The trail begins at the junction of Highways 6 and 23, then follows Government Rd, before it climbs the grade out of town. There is access at the Nakusp Centennial Golf Course and at the Hwy 6 trail crossing just south of Brouse Loop Rd. Wilson Lake Rd – The trail crosses Wilson Lake Rd to provide access about 600 meters from the north end of Box Lake.

Box Lake – Access is via Box Lake Forest Service Road on the far side of the highway from the lake.

Views of Box Lake marsh are found. About 4.3 km after the southern end of Box Lake, the trail gains access to Hwy 6.

HALCYON

REVELSTOKE

Explore trails converted from historic rail lines. Walk, hike or bike through wilderness and local communities.

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Summit Lake – Access is found at both Summit Lake and 650 meters south of the Summit Lake Ski Area at Summit Lake Rd. The shores of Summit Lake are the highest point on the trail at 765 metres elevation.

Summit Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and provides views of the Three Sisters Peaks.

Bonanza Creek - From marshy headwaters at Summit Lake, Bonanza Creek flows down through a narrow forested corridor. The trail follows the creek, is a bit rougher and more overgrown.

VA P

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Hills to Rosebery - After Hills, the trail passes Bonanza Marsh, which has excellent bird watching opportunities. It then hugs the Slocan Lake shoreline to Rosebery, offering views of the Valhalla Range.

CASTLEGAR

TRAILS BETWEEN NEW DENVER & SANDON

TRAILS NEAR NEW DENVER NEW DENVER

USP

THREE FORKS Galena Trail Old Sandon Rd K&S Trail

HILLS ROSEBERY

NEW DENVER SILVERTON

BROUSE THREE FORKS SANDON

The trails surrounding Three Forks were adapted from the narrow gauge rail lines built in 1895 to connect Kaslo and Nakusp with Sandon. These trails are narrower and steeper than other rail trails.

Galena Trail – The Galena Trail is a 13 km section of old CPR rail line that runs from Rosebery to Three Forks. Carpenter Creek can be crossed at the old Alamo mine site by a small cable car. Trailheads are found at Rosebery, New Denver and Three Forks.

Old Sandon Road Trail – The historic trail runs along the south side of the Carpenter Creek, eventually meeting Galena Trail in Three Forks. From here, connection to the K&S Rail Trail will take hikers to Sandon and beyond. This is an intermediate rated trail and more challenging.

K&S Rail Trail – The trail starts in upper Sandon at the K&S replica Sandon train station. Enjoy views of Sandon and pass by the historical Altoona mine. It is possible to connect with the 16 km Mt Payne wagon road climb/ descent between Sandon and Bear Lake on Hwy 31A. Three Forks – Three Forks is the junction where three rail trails meet to offer exploration in various directions.

The K&S trailhead is found off Hwy 31A and the Galena and Old Sandon trailheads off Sandon Rd.

SLOCAN VALLEY RAIL TRAIL

SLOCAN CITY LEMON CREEK PERRYS APPLEDALE WINLAW VALLICAN PASSMORE SLOCAN PARK

EGAR

PLAYMOR JUNCTION SOUTH SLOCAN

Slocan Valley Rail Trail - Winding gently through this beautiful river valley, the trail offers easy non-motorized access to 52 km of scenery. Following the contours of the Slocan River, the trail connects Slocan Lake in the north to Kootenay River in the south, with multiple entry and exit points.

Trail sections: • Slocan Lake to Lemon Creek – 8.1 km • Lemon Creek to Winlaw – 12 km with access also at Perrys Siding.

• Winlaw to Passmore – 10.1 km • Passmore to Crescent Valley – 16.5 km This section ends at Crescent Beach where the gravel rail trail ends.

• Crescent Valley to South Slocan – 4.5 km paved

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Attractions

SILVERY SLOCAN Trace a loop back in time to where the silver industry built bustling towns overnight. The boom left a colourful legacy now reflected in the modern day villages with historical architecture set against stunning wilderness.

Some exhibits are open seasonally. Check with each location for open hours. arrowslocan.com/road-trips

The Stops: Dive into history and take the Silvery Slocan Tour.

1. Sandon Sandon is known as the ‘Silver City’ or the ‘Heart of the Silvery Slocan’. Today, the ghost town at the centre of the silver rush still has old buildings and artifacts.

Be sure to visit: • The 1897 Powerhouse • City Hall from 1900 • Prospector’s Pick Café • Sandon Historical Society Museum • The railways connecting the town are now hiking trails with traces of mining history dotted along the paths.

2. Cody A kilometre up the road from Sandon is the old mining town of Cody that was surrounded by several old mine sites including the Slocan Sovereign, Noble Five, Noonday and American Boy mines. Today, multiple ruins are still standing.

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Attractions

3. New Denver and Silverton New Denver and Silverton are also former silver boomtowns, with heritage architecture lining the streets.

Be sure to visit: • Silvery Slocan Museum in New Denver • Silverton Gallery’s outdoor silver mining exhibit • Silverton’s preserved blacksmith shop, Fingland Cabin • New Denver’s Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre to learn about the history of Japanese Canadians held in the Slocan Valley during World War II.

4. Village of Slocan Take the Slocan History Walk and learn about the Village of Slocan’s colourful past. This walking tour takes explorers past the beginnings of Slocan’s community.

5. Nakusp In the early days without roads or railway, Nakusp was only connected by paddle wheelers on the shipping route with Castlegar and Revelstoke.

With the discovery of silver in Sandon, the Nakusp and Slocan Railway (N&S) was built in 1895.

Be sure to visit: • Nakusp Museum • Nakusp Historical Society

Proudly Offering:

• Arrow Lakes and upper Lardeau historical research • Over 40,000 archived photos, documents, newspapers, and maps • Award-winning historical books

• Colour & b/w photocopying (up to 11” x 17”) • Wide-format document scanning (up to 44”/110 cm) • Online programming (including our popular slideshows!)

92 6th Ave NW, Nakusp, BC (rear entrance behind the Library and Museum) Phone: 250.265.0110 27 Email: alhs1234@telus.net Website: alhs-archives.net Facebook & YouTube: Arrow Lakes Historical Society

Attractions

Backcountry Lodges The region’s backcountry lodges each have access to unique terrain in remote locations.

Legendary West Kootenay winters deliver heaps of snow to the mountains that cradle the region. Arrow Slocan is home to the Monashee Mountains, as well as Selkirk Range that includes both the Valhalla and Valkyr Ranges. Quiet waterfront communities are the gateway to untracked terrain and cozy backcountry lodges. Choose from tall mountain peaks, alpine bowls, couloirs, and naturally gladed skiing.

Valkyr Adventures Three unique lodges are accessed by helicopter and located in the Valkyr Mountain range near Burton. Hilda Hut, Valkyr and the LQ Outpost backcountry lodges offer guided and catered or self-guided and un-catered adventures for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. The summer lodge-to-lodge traverse lets hikers explore the best views the Valkyrs offer.

A SPOT OF COMFORT IN THE PRISTINE WILDERNESS. VALKYR ADVENTURES

Backcountry Lodge Ski Touring

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Alpine Hiking 888.482.5597

INFO@VALKYRADVENTURES.COM

valkyradventures.com

The snowcat accessed lodge is located west of Hills in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains, just north of Valhalla Provincial Park. Alpine bowls, glades and chutes are just a skin track away from the lodge, allowing a new ski tour adventure every day. Enjoy the 360 views of the Bugaboos, Kokanee Glacier, rugged South Valhallas and many other majestic Selkirk peaks. VMT offer guided and catered backcountry adventures in winter and summer.

Sol Mountain Lodge Located in the Monashee Mountain range, this lodge is fly in during winter and drive in for the summer months. In winter, catered and guided ski touring trips explore alpine and treeline terrain with pillows, chutes, big turns and old growth tree skiing within easy access of the lodge. During summer, the extensive trail network is paradise for hikers and bikers. Bag some peaks or ride the single track over flowing terrain into downhill excitement.

Ice Creek Lodge Deep in the Valhalla Range, the helicopter accessed lodge offers week-long guided and catered backcountry ski touring experiences. Be surrounded by stunning couloirs and powder-hoarding bowls.

Decompress in the wood fired sauna. In summer, guided and catered multi-night tours traverse alpine peaks and lakes by paddleboard or on foot.

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Attractions

Valhalla Mountain Touring

Enjoy 360° views of the Bugaboos, Kokanee Glacier, rugged South Valhallas and many other majestic Selkirk Peaks.

Arts & Culture

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ARTS & CULTURE Painters, sculptors, and photographers abound, particularly in the Slocan Valley.

Their work is featured prominently in small independent galleries, cafes and summer markets throughout the region.

Considering a coffee or snack and want to pair it with local culture? Stop in at a local coffee shop. Take a peak at the unique local artwork and creations on display at many local cafés. arrowslocan.com/experiences/arts-culture

Stops to consider: • Studio Connexion Gallery , Nakusp StudioConnexionGallery.com

• Hidden Garden Gallery, New Denver HiddenGardenGallery.ca

• Still Point Pottery, Slocan Park Denver StillPointPottery.ca

Laurel Tree Fabric & Fibre

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Stop in New Denver and come to Laurel Tree Fabric and Fibre for all of your quilting, knitting, crocheting, weaving, and felting needs. Our natural fibre store include yarns such as wool, linen, silk, and cotton, 100s of bolts of quilting cotton, and supplies to make your creative dreams.

Laurel Tree Fabrics and Fibre | 304 6th Avenue, New Denver Open Wednesday to Saturday, 10:30 to 3:30

Eat & Drink

EAT & DRINK Arrow Slocan is home to a number of craft producers. Mead, wine, cider, vodka – it’s all made right here. Pair with stops to the many cafes, eateries and seasonal farmer’s markets for a culinary journey. arrowslocan.com/listing-category/where-to-eat

Cafes Arrow Slocan is a long way from box stores and chain coffee shops.

Locally curated coffee stops, cafes, homemade baked goods and meals are instead what greet visitors to the region. Bring your to-go mug and appetite, the Arrow Slocan cafe scene does not disappoint!

Each spot is unique, with its own character, style and local scene.

Make sure to plan ahead to not miss a single delicious sip so deserving of being savoured.

Locally made is the culture of the region.

Nuru Coffee Bar 513 -6th Ave Hwy 6 & Hwy 31A Tues-Sat (8am-5pm) Sit in or take out Serving: Sweets & Savouries, Espresso, Summer Drinks & Ice Ceam. We are licensed too! Come try some Kootenay beer and B.C. wine.

Camp Cafe Camp Cafe 206 Lake Ave Silverton, BC Located in a historical building on the mainstreet of Silverton, Camp Cafe serves up freshly baked goods, gourmet coffee, sandwiches and on-the-go food options.

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Burton City Cider

@LeeOrrPhotography

Take a flight. Stay local!

5470 Highway 6 11am - 5pm Pizza Night - until 8pm Closed Tuesday

250-265-7044 BurtonCityCider.ca

Customize your flight plan with a selection of on-tap cider.

- Light lunches, grazing boxes & picnics to go - Pizza Nights - Thursday July & Aug - Thurs, Fri, Sat - 500ml bottles & growlers

Your West Kootenay Destination for crisp, dry cider.

Valley of the Springs Winery The best kept regional secret is that Arrow Lakes is a prime grape growing region. The Nakusp winery’s orchard was planted in 2007 and sales started in 2020. Sample their red, white or rosé wines at their vineyard’s tasting room.

Tonik Distillery With recipes passed down from their forefathers, Tonik creates their regular and flavoured vodkas, ‘Old Tom’ Gin, as well as canned flavoured vodka sodas for an easy to-go option. Find their tasting room and pizzeria in Crescent Valley.

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After planting the trees and testing many batches, the cidery opened its doors in 2016. The tasting room is located in Burton on a 30 acre farm that includes the orchard. From the edge of Arrow Lakes, take in views of the Monashees and Mt Ingersoll.

Mithril Meadery Find the merits in all things Medieval by enjoying a goblet of mead. Mead is an alcoholic beverage made with fermented honey that’s been through bouts of popularity since 400 A.D. Find Mithril’s wares at local farmers markets.

Shopping

SHOPPING The region’s heritage downtowns are known for their colourful stores. Take a tour. Pop in and out of local boutiques and galleries to get a true taste of the local arts and craftsman culture.

Winlaw, New Denver, Silverton, and Nakusp have a collection of stores lined up on their village’s main streets.

Find locally made collectables in most coffee shops in the region.

In the spring through until autumn the Slocan, New Denver and Nakusp farmers markets are where local artisans and food producers showcase their goods. Find fresh in-season food and products. When travelling the region’s highways and backroads, look for stands offering farmgate sales of local produce.

Get a true taste of the local arts and craftsman culture.

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TRAVEL TIPS We are all here for the beauty, pristine outdoors and culture filled communities. Get travel savvy and make the most of your time in Arrow Slocan. arrrowslocan.com/travel-tips

1. PROTECT OUR NATURE Brush up on the seven Leave no Trace Principles. This starts with how you plan and pack for your trip, as well as what you do when in the outdoors. Finally, how you pack up to make sure no one could ever know you were there.

2. SHOP LOCAL While here, why not plan to support local businesses? The communities that host you rely on the small businesses that call here home. One way to give back to the region is by buying local to support ongoing business viability. Come away having had a truly local experience.

3. REDUCE WASTE * Pack a reusable drink bottle and to-go coffee mug * Pack your own cutlery * Carry a reusable bag

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Travel Tips

4. KEEP ARROW SLOCAN CLEAN & PRISTINE Taking responsibility for your litter is an important part of caring for our region’s future. Leave it as beautiful as you found it.

If you can pack it in, you can pack it out.

5. DRIVE CAREFULLY Arrow Slocan highways are predominately one lane in each direction. Mountain roads can be windy and the line of sight not clear. Traffic may move more slowly than expected. Pass with great care. In winter, roads can be icy or snowy. Have dedicated good condition winter tires and be confident driving in winter conditions.

6. ADVENTURE SMART & BE PREPARED In the mountains and on the water, weather can change quickly. There is often no cell service. In remote areas it is up to you to be prepared to manage emergencies. adventuresmart.ca

Let’s keep this place as amazing for the next visit as it is for this one.

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Explore scenic highways, visit communities and discover outdoor adventure along the way. This route is popular for bicycle, motorbike, car or RV tours.

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SEE & DO HIGHLIGHTS The History Buff

Nakusp Museum & Arrow Lakes Historical Society, Nakusp Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre, New Denver Silvery Slocan Museum, New Denver Silverton Gallery, Silverton Fingland Cabin, Silverton Ghost town of Sandon

Family Excursions

In & Around Nakusp

Stroll the waterfront walkway Take a dip at the Municipal Park beach Enjoy the panorama of Vicky’s View Stop at Ione Falls on the way to Halcyon Hot Springs Check out the Kuskanax Creek wooden footbridge near Nakusp Hot Springs

Go rafting with Endless Adventure, Crescent Valley Swim at Slocan Beach Walk the rail trail from Lemon Creek to Walter Clough Wildlife Sanctuary Camp under the stars Visit Toad Fest at Summit Lake in August

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Explore the farmers markets in Slocan, New Denver, Nakusp

Adventure Junkies

Walk the Mori Lakeside Trail, New Denver

Drop into the bowl at Tenacity Skate Park, Slocan

Visit the Silverton Lookout, Hwy 6 south of Silverton

Mountain bike the Mt. Abriel trails, Nakusp

Stroll the Slocan Valley Rail Trail

Go rock climbing at Slocan Bluffs, Slocan City

Visit McDonald Creek Provincial Park, Arrow Lakes Bike the many rail trails

Winter Activities

See & Do Highlights

Summer Scenic

Ski & snowboard at the Summit Lake Ski Hill Get the 360 views on a hike up Saddle Mountain, Nakusp

XC ski to the Altoona Mine Site from Sandon’s replica rail station warming hut Brave a skate ski down the famous Valhalla Hills Nordic roller coaster trail Night ski at Summit Lake Ski Hill Warm up in the region’s hot springs Snowshoe Wensley Creek’s Jack Rabbit Trail

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Discover the road less travelled.

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Tag us on social media @visitarrowslocan Let us know what your favourite #ArrowSlocan experiences are.