Family Friendly

Family Activities

Families will find that the Kootenay Lake region is chock full of fun family activities and ways to keep the kids occupied and make for a vacation you won’t soon forget.

Warm Weather

Visiting in the summer? Get out the checklist – there are more things to do than time! A beach visit to one of the many provincial or regional parks is a must, and if the kids are big enough, take them flying through the forest upstream at Kokanee Mountain Zipline. Rent a canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard and enjoy one of BC’s largest lakes.

Cycle on the Great Northern Rail Trail, Kaslo River Trail, or The Great Trail (East Shore), or take it up a notch on one of the many impressive mountain bike trails in the area. Hiking options range from short waterfront walks to grand multi-day traverses. Camp at one of the many scenic waterfront parks and bond over campfires, stories and comfortable evening temperatures.

Cool Weather

If you’re coming for a winter vacation, head to Whitewater Ski Resort for a family-friendly ski experience. The Silver King side is ideal for younger rippers, while the rest of the mountain challenges skiers of all ages and abilities. Scenic multi-use trails bring you up close and personal with the winter wonderland above Nelson.

Take the family cross-country skiing on beautifully maintained and inviting trails at the Nelson Nordic Ski Club, on the rail trail in Nelson, or the Kaslo Nordic Ski Club. Outdoor skating options include Lions Park, Cottonwood Lake, and nearby Morning Mountain, while the Nelson & District Community Centre features a modern indoor rink, swimming pool (including a slide), and gym.

Self-Guided Tours

Get to know our unique communities and take a self-guided tour of our historic buildings, streets and neighbourhoods. Pick up a walking tour brochure at the Nelson or Kaslo Visitors Centres or follow along on our interactive map.

Bike, walk, or drive and explore a number of Nelson or Kaslo parks and attractions all in one go! Some of the sites in these tours are close together and easy walking distance but if you plan to visit them all we recommend a bicycle or e-bike. You can get rentals for all types of bikes at Gerick Cycle and Ski or The Sacred Ride. You can also get the printed brochure at the Nelson or Kaslo Visitor Centres.

MURAL TOUR

Experience your own personal tour of Nelson's incredible murals! In partnership with the Nelson International Mural Festival we have created a self-guided mural tour with over 50 captivating murals tucked into alleys and side streets around Nelson. The Mural Tours are available in both French and English. To choose which language, to go Settings at the bottom of the App and choose your language of choice.

Stay & Eat

You’ll find the perfect stay for your family, ranging from budget motels to waterfront resorts, well-appointed vacation rentals to forested campgrounds and everything in between. Restaurants, cafes and pubs welcome families with warm service, freshly prepared dishes and a promise of a relaxing meal out.

Half Day Adventures

What do caving and ziplining have in common? Beyond being family-friendly, a ton of fun, and requiring no experience, these half-day adventures are located just a short drive from our bustling mountain communities.