North Kootenay Lake

Adventure Awaits at the North End of Kootenay Lake

Lardeau & Meadow Creek

The Lardeau Valley and Meadow Creek, along with Cooper Creek, Argenta and Johnson's Landing, lies just north of Kaslo. It's a quiet spot at the north end of Kootenay Lake, known for grizzly bears, homesteaders and true wilderness aficionados.

The communities are home to camping, resorts, adventure seekers—anyone who loves the outdoors and being in nature. Meadow Creek itself is a small, warm community of around 200 people with a general store. Lardeau Valley hosts pristine wilderness opportunities from skiing to hiking and stunning valley and river walks.

Steeped in heritage and charm, the area is the gateway to some of the most gorgeous and remote backcountry in the world, as well as many adventures. It's the birthplace of Cat Skiing, and known as the Cat Skiing Capital of the World. It hosts the Lardeau River with Class 2 rapids, provides access to the Purcell mountain range, and many glaciers and mountain lakes beyond.

Winter skiing, snowshoeing and more

Meadow Creek is the winter home for world-class Heli and Cat ski operations. White Grizzly Cat Skiing and Selkirk Snowcat Skiing both operate out of Meadow Creek, and Stellar Heliskiing is based in nearby Kaslo. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling are also popular activities in the winter.

Spring, summer and fall

The warmer months bring just as many opportunities for adventure: caving, climbing and alpine hiking.

Hiking in the area can range from a mellow nature walk along the river to high alpine hikes such as Monica Meadows or the Jumbo Pass hike—an eight kilometre, three hour hike with gorgeous views of the glacier at the top, and a quaint alpine cabin available for overnight stays as well. Our designated hiking page plenty more listings and routes to explore.

Finally, for eco-focused travellers, there are a couple of eco-tourism operators that offer guided tours and sustainable accommodation for those in search of unspoiled wilderness.

For information on the Lardeau Valley residents and organizations the local LINKS Society has lots of information on social, economic and environmental well-being in their area.