How to spend a winter day in Kaslo

When most people think of Kaslo they think beaches, paddling on Kootenay Lake, the iconic Kaslo Jazz Festival and SS Moyie, or some other summery activity; but this beautiful village on the north end of Kootenay Lake has PLENTY to offer all year round. Follow along for a perfect winter day in Kaslo.

Winter Festival

For BC Family Day, the third weekend in February, Kaslo hosts an extravaganza of iconic Canadian, and Kaslovian activities.  For more details visit our Events Calendar and follow them on their Facebook page. February 20, 2023, 10am-3pm, in Kaslo!

This event typically includes kids games, street hockey, cross-country skiing (skis provided), snow painting, local musicians and entertainment, a woodsmen skills competition, human dogsled races and more. Food and beverages are provided free of charge (donations welcome!) and usually includes bannock on a stick, homemade soups, stew, baked beans, chilli, hot chocolate and hot apple cider. There is also the most Canadian dessert of all time: maple taffy on the snow.

Scenic Drive

If you are travelling from Nelson the day will start with a one hour scenic drive. Download the self-guided Kootenay Lake Road Trip App and learn and laugh along the way. If you time it right, at Balfour or on the lake you'll catch a glimpse of the Kootenay Lake Ferry.

Nordic Ski

The Kaslo Outdoor Recreation Society has a network of beautiful trails for classic cross-country skiing. Take Highway 31A out of Kaslo towards New Denver about 9km. Keep your eyes open for the parking area along the side of the highway. There are several trails of varying lengths and difficulty to choose from, including an off-leash dog friendly trail.

Kaslo River Trail

On the way back from the ski area pull over at the Kaslo River Trail trailhead and take a quick walk down to the Kaslo Trailblazer's bridge. Even if you don't go further than the bridge it's worth the stop just to admire the view, breathe-in the fresh air, and take a photo or two. The path can be a bit slippery so make sure you have some decent winter boots on if you're going to check this spot out. (XC ski boots not recommended on the trail, for obvious reasons.)

Downtown Kaslo

After a nordic ski you'll probably be hungry. We recommend a walk down Kaslo's main street to visit one of their delicious restaurants. Delight your taste buds at the Kaslo Hotel, Buddy's Pizzeria, or the BlueBelle Bistro. Do some shopping at one of the unique shops or take in some history at the Langham Cultural Centre. Use our digital map and do your own walking tour.

Angry Hen Brewing

To cap off your wonderful winter day stop at the newly opened Angry Hen Brewing! The bright space is beautifully designed with tons of wood, high ceilings, and tasteful decorations (including hops light fixtures made by the owners' daughter)! They currently have several beers on tap and are regularly introducing new recipes and seasonal blends.

Enjoy your Kaslo winter adventures!