Kootenay Lake

Cradled between the towering Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, Kootenay Lake is one of British Columbia’s largest and most spectacular waterways—a paddler’s paradise stretching over 100 kilometres from north to south. Its vast expanse of turquoise-blue water invites exploration at every turn, whether you’re seeking the stillness of a sheltered bay, the adventure of a long-distance crossing, or the discovery of hidden gems tucked along its rugged shoreline. Launch from the lively lakeside towns of Nelson, Kaslo, or Balfour and you’ll quickly find yourself gliding past forested slopes, rocky bluffs, and sandy beaches that are often accessible only by water.

For the day paddler, quiet inlets and island outcrops offer perfect picnic spots and safe places to drift, while multi-day adventurers can follow the shoreline on an unforgettable journey, camping at remote coves and watching the stars dance over the dark, glassy water. Along the way, you might encounter cascading waterfalls, glimpse eagles riding the thermals above, or paddle past the remnants of historic steamboat landings that once connected the region’s gold rush communities. In summer, the lake’s warmer shallows invite refreshing swims between paddles, while in autumn, the surrounding hillsides blaze with colour, adding a whole new dimension to the scenery.

From tranquil dawn reflections to the golden light of sunset shimmering across the water, Kootenay Lake offers endless opportunities for connection—with nature, with the region’s rich history, and with the simple joy of travelling by paddle in a place where the mountains meet the water.