EXPLORE OUR TRAILS ON SNOWSHOES

Soaking in some spectacular views, looking for animal tracks, listening to the sound of snow falling, and perhaps a cozy winter picnic, can all be experienced while snowshoeing around Kootenay Lake. Many popular hiking and biking trails in the region double as snowshoeing trails in the winter. Our incredible Nordic Ski community also welcomes snowshoers onto their multi-use trails. 

Check out the tracks in the region

MAKING TRACKS

• The trails around Cottonwood Lake make for a scenic, low-intensity snowshoe. There are several fire pits for a cozy après snowshoe smore, and in colder weather, the lake freezes over and is used for skating. 
• The Nelson Nordic Ski Club has several designated snowshoe trails, one that winds through a tall cedar forest, one that shadows the serene Apex Creek, and a longer trail that leads to the cozy A-frame Euphrates Hut. There is a 5$/day access fee to use these trails, payable at the Nelson Nordic Ski Club kiosk. 
• Whitewater’s multi-use trails include a picturesque snowshoe route. There is no cost to access the trails in the Nordic Centre, but guests need to pick up a pass from guest services prior to hitting the trails. Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail. 
• Once known as the Blewett Ski Hill, the multi-use trails at Morning Mountain loop through a mountainside forest. The trails are dog-friendly, and there is a community outdoor skating rink and firepit at the base of the trails. 
• Kaslo’s Nordic Ski Area offers free, multi-use trails that welcome snowshoers. Be prepared to share the trail with cross-country skiers and please avoid stepping in their tracks. Dogs are permitted on the snowshoe trails. Enjoy, but be sure to pick up after your dog.
• Balfour Golf Course is hoping to have snowshoe access in 2023. Stay tuned for another amazing place to put on the shoes, and enjoy the outdoors.

If you are looking for a map of locations use our handy digital map, and just filter by location.  Nelson Nordic Ski Club has a snowshoe map online, or ask for a printed one at the kiosk.

WHERE TO RENT AND BUY

Kaslo Adventure Centre offers snowshoe rentals. Whitewater offers pre-booked snowshoe rentals at the Skier Services Lodge. Nelson Nordic Ski Club is hoping to have some available in 2022.  If you are looking to purchase snowshoes, Valhalla Pure Nelson and ROAM are both places to browse awesome gear.   

SAFETY FIRST

Before venturing into the mountains be sure to check Avalanche Canada and DriveBC for snow conditions. There are lots of backcountry and avalanche awareness courses available and local guides to help make your trip as enjoyable and safe as possible.