Hidden Kootenay Gems

featuring Heritage Towns

Photo Credit: Thompson Okanagan/Darren Robinson

Header Photo Credit: Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton

Experience the best of the Kootenays on a scenic fall journey through some of southern BC’s most charming heritage resort towns and natural wonders. From the mountain vistas of Revelstoke and the relaxing mineral pools of Fairmont Hot Springs to the rich rail history of Cranbrook and the mountain resort towns of Fernie and Rossland, this adventure will make you appreciate the remarkable diversity of the Kootenays and highlights the warmth and character of small mountain communities, shaped by both nature and history.

TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1 – REVELSTOKE, BC

Enjoy the first night with a welcome dinner at the heritage resort of Three Valley Lake Chateau along with its famous Ghost Town featuring a recreated 1800s pioneer settlement with over thirty restored buildings, an antique auto museum and much more offering a step back in time.

DAY 2 – FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS, BC

Get a true sense of the Kootenay’s wild beauty on route to Fairmont Hot Springs. Learn about wolves in the immersive environment of Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Center then experience the dramatic vistas from the Golden Skybridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge.  The day ends, where mineral pools and alpine surroundings provide the perfect place to relax and unwind with a two-night stay at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

DAY 3 – FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS

Experience the resort and its rejuvenating mineral pools or take the short drive to Radium Hot Springs for a little variety.

SPOTLIGHT

Fairmont Hot Springs is the largest Hot Spring Resort in Canada.  Unlike many other hot springs, Fairmont’s water is very low in Sulphur, so the water has no sulphur smell.

DAY 4 – CRANBROOK, BC

Travel to the picturesque mountain town of Fernie, located in the south Elk Valley of the Canadian Rockies.  Wander the historic downtown with its old brick buildings, shops and cafes. Stay for the next two nights at the St. Eugene Golf & Casino Resort.

DAY 5 – CRANBROOK

Visit the Cranbrook History Centre for an in-depth look into life in the Kootenays and the history museum of Fort Steele Village that recreates a 19th century pioneer town.

EXPERIENCES & HIGHLIGHTS

Stroll the streets of Fort Steele Heritage Town with its restored buildings and costumed storytellers, offering a glimpse into pioneer life, gold rush history and frontier culture. Discover the hidden gems of Fernie and Rossland with their historic charm and vibrant small-town culture. Relax in Canada’s largest natural hot springs with sweeping Rocky Mountain views.

DAY 6 – OSOYOOS, BC

Travel along the river to Rossland, the mountain resort with small-town charm.  Visit the Rossland Museum with it’s indoor and outdoor exhibits and conclude the day in Osoyoos with a farewell dinner.

DAY 7 – RETURN HOME

Photo by Mitch Winton