Adventure (Winter)

This is a powder paradise where mountain culture is as authentic as it gets. There are a number of explanations — 15 in fact — as to why Powder Magazine chose the Nelson Kootenay Lake region as one of the “20 Best Places To Live To Ski” in North America.

Within an easy morning’s drive, there are several resorts including legendary Whitewater, six cat-skiing operations, two heli-ski companies, six backcountry lodges and more touring than you’ll ever shred in a season.

From lift-accessed slack country to multi-day adventures amidst the epic isolation of the Selkirks, Purcells or Bonningtons.

Every February, Whitewater hosts the Kootenay Coldsmoke Powder Festival — a backcountry celebration honouring Ullr (the god of winter).

Nordic skiing is easy to get to, with cross-country areas near Nelson, Whitewater, Kaslo and the nearby Slocan Valley, all track set, some by both day and night.

All winter, wrapped in toques, parkas and a warm mug of whatever, there’s pure Canadiana culture, with great snowmobiling areas and well-organized local snowmobile clubs responsible for well-maintained backcountry huts, trails and group rides, snowshoeing and rollicking local hockey tilts.

And all this, within mere minutes of warm and wonderful après ski haunts offering delicious dining, historic pubs and soothing tubs.

View listings of local adventure activities below.