Kootenay Region, British Columbia 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Revelstoke

Embark on a scenic drive from Kelowna towards Revelstoke.

The route offers stunning views as you enter the mountainous terrain.

Lunch in Revelstoke

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Revelstoke's charming downtown.

Many options offer hearty meals perfect for adventurers.

Try some of the local pubs or cafes. Prices typically range from CAD 15-25 per person.

Giant Cedars Boardwalk

Explore the Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail in Mount Revelstoke National Park.

This easy 0.5 km loop trail winds through an old-growth cedar-hemlock forest.

A National Park Pass is required for entry. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and impressive ancient trees.

Check-in to Hotel

Check into your accommodation in Revelstoke and settle in for the evening.

Dinner in Revelstoke

Savor dinner at a Revelstoke eatery, perhaps one offering local fare.

Many restaurants offer locally sourced ingredients. Expect to pay CAD 40-70 for 2 people.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe in Revelstoke.

Check if breakfast is included with your accommodation. Otherwise, local cafes offer good options.

Hiking in Mount Revelstoke National Park

Spend the morning hiking in Mount Revelstoke National Park.

Options include the Meadows in the Sky Parkway (seasonal opening for driving), or various trails near the base like the Skunk Cabbage Trail (easy, 2.5 km loop) known for its unique flora and wetland environment.

Wear appropriate hiking footwear and bring water. Check park conditions and trail openings for the season.

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery of the national park or a scenic viewpoint.

Pack sandwiches, snacks, and drinks before heading out. This saves time and allows for flexible eating spots.

Sutherland Falls Visit

Drive a short distance to Blanket Creek Provincial Park to visit Sutherland Falls.

A short, easy trail leads to viewing platforms for this impressive waterfall.

The park is located south of Revelstoke along Highway 23S. A great spot for photos and a refreshing stop.

Dinner & Relaxation

Return to Revelstoke for dinner and unwind after a day of hiking and exploration.

Consider trying a local brewery or a restaurant with a patio to enjoy the evening air.

Breakfast & Checkout

Enjoy breakfast and check out from your Revelstoke accommodation.

Drive towards Halfway Hot Springs

Begin your scenic drive south from Revelstoke along Highway 23 South, heading towards the turnoff for Halfway Hot Springs.

Hike & Soak at Halfway Hot Springs

Park your vehicle and embark on the hike down to Halfway Hot Springs.

Descend the stairs to the river level and enjoy soaking in the rustic, natural hot pools situated alongside the Halfway River.

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate swimwear/towel. There are no facilities. The stairs can be steep, so good footwear is essential. This is a truly wild experience, so pack out everything you pack in. Allow ample time for the hike down, soaking, and the hike back up.

Drive to Nakusp & Check-in

After your hot spring adventure, continue your drive to Nakusp, a charming village on the shores of Arrow Lake, and check into your accommodation.

Dinner in Nakusp

Enjoy a relaxing dinner in Nakusp, perhaps at a restaurant offering views of the lake or mountains.

Nakusp has a few local eateries and pubs. Expect dinner for 2 to be CAD 40-70.

Breakfast at Halcyon

Enjoy breakfast at the resort, often accompanied by beautiful lake views.

Nakusp Waterfront Walk

Explore the charming Nakusp waterfront promenade and enjoy easy walking trails along Arrow Lake.

Visit the local marina and admire the mountain views.

A relaxed walk, perfect for enjoying the serene Kootenay landscape.

Lunch in Nakusp

Grab lunch at a local cafe or eatery in Nakusp.

There are several small, independent restaurants offering good options for a casual meal.

Halcyon Hot Springs Soak

Enjoy a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich pools of Halcyon Hot Springs Resort.

Experience various temperatures and take in the stunning lake and mountain scenery.

As guests of the resort, you'll have easy access to these well-maintained, soothing pools. It's a perfect way to relax your muscles after yesterday's hike to Halfway Hot Springs.

Scenic Drive to Viewpoint

Take a short drive to a nearby scenic viewpoint to capture some last photos of the Arrow Lakes and surrounding mountains, perhaps the Kuskanax Creek Footbridge.

Ask local staff for recommendations on current best viewpoints or short scenic drives.

Dinner at Resort

Have dinner at the Halcyon Hot Springs Resort's restaurant, enjoying the ambiance.

Check for reservation requirements for dinner at the resort, especially on a Friday evening. Expect upscale pricing, approximately CAD 80-120 for 2 people.

Breakfast & Checkout

Enjoy your final breakfast at Halcyon Hot Springs Resort and check out.

Fauquier-Needles Ferry

Drive to the Fauquier-Needles ferry terminal and take the scenic free ferry across Lower Arrow Lake. This is part of the journey south.

Scenic Drive towards Vernon

Continue your drive south on BC-6 after the ferry, through picturesque small towns and rural landscapes.

This route offers a different perspective of the Kootenays.

This section of the drive is very scenic and less trafficked than major highways. Keep an eye out for local artisan shops or viewpoints.

Lunch in a Small Town

Stop for lunch in one of the charming small towns along Highway 6, such as Cherryville or Lumby, as you head west towards Vernon.

Support local businesses and enjoy a relaxed meal before continuing your journey.

Vernon Local Exploration

Arrive in Vernon and take some time to explore.

You could visit Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park for a short walk (if time allows and you're not hiking out) or explore some of Vernon's local shops and murals.

Kalamalka Lake is famous for its changing colors, often referred to as the 'lake of a thousand colours'.

Scenic Drive Back to Kelowna

Enjoy the final leg of your Kootenay road trip.

The drive from the Nakusp/Revelstoke area back to Kelowna offers beautiful mountain and lake views. Stop for photos at scenic pull-offs.

Waterfront Lunch in Kelowna

Upon arrival, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of Kelowna's many downtown restaurants with views of Okanagan Lake.

Options range from casual cafes to upscale dining.

Popular spots include places along Water Street or Bernard Avenue. Consider reservations for peak times, especially on a Sunday.

Okanagan Lake Waterfront & City Park

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful boardwalk of Okanagan Lake.

Relax at City Park, enjoy the public art, and reflect on your Kootenay adventures.

Plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the views. Keep an eye out for Ogopogo, the legendary lake monster!

Knox Mountain Park Views

Drive or take a moderate hike up Knox Mountain for panoramic views of Kelowna, Okanagan Lake, and the surrounding vineyards.

It's a great spot for memorable photos.

Multiple trails available; choose one suitable for a light post-road trip hike. The main road allows driving almost to the top lookout point.

Farewell Dinner in Kelowna

Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at a local Kelowna restaurant.

Celebrate your road trip with Okanagan Valley cuisine, perhaps paired with local wine or craft beer.

Kelowna has a fantastic culinary scene. Consider establishments in the Cultural District or along Pandosy Street. Reservations are recommended for popular spots on a Sunday evening.