Cottonwood Lake

Cottonwood Lake is a cherished local gem located just south of Nelson. This small, protected body of water is part of the Cottonwood Lake Regional Park and serves as a vital community hub for recreation. The lake is surrounded by steep, forested slopes of larch and fir, which ignite in brilliant gold during the autumn months.

The water is typically calm and glass-like in the mornings, making it a sanctuary for local birdlife including ospreys and bald eagles. As you paddle near the marshy southern end, you may spot painted turtles sunning themselves on logs. It is an ideal environment for those seeking a quiet, meditative paddle away from the larger, windier lakes. Geographically, the lake sits at a transition point between the Selkirk and Purcell mountains. Its small size ensures that the water warms up faster than the nearby Kootenay Lake. The park provides excellent infrastructure for families, including a designated swimming area and accessible docks for launching non-motorized craft.