Kootenay Rockies, British Columbia 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart Kelowna

Begin your road trip by driving north from Kelowna towards Revelstoke.

Enjoy the scenic drive along Highway 97 and then Highway 1.

Ensure your vehicle is fueled up and you have snacks and water for the journey.

Hike to Bridal Veil Falls

Stop just before Revelstoke to take a short, rewarding hike to the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls.

This is a great stretch for your legs.

The falls are located within the Crazy Creek Resort, which may have a small access fee. Alternatively, explore other roadside waterfalls along Highway 1.

Lunch in Revelstoke

Grab a quick bite in the charming town of Revelstoke.

Options range from local cafes to casual diners.

Set Up Camp

Head to your chosen campsite near Revelstoke.

Revelstoke has several provincial parks and private campgrounds. Suggestion: Martha Creek Provincial Park or Blanket Creek Provincial Park.

Book campsites in advance, especially for late May, as they can fill up. Ensure you have all necessary camping gear.

Evening Lake Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake or river near your campsite, taking in the mountain views as the sun begins to set.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, and pack bug spray.

Camp Breakfast

Prepare and enjoy breakfast at your campsite.

Explore Mount Revelstoke National Park

Drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway (seasonal opening, check status) up Mount Revelstoke.

Enjoy easy walks like the Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail and the Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk Trail, marveling at old-growth forests and unique ecosystems. Consider a longer hike if time and conditions allow.

Park pass required. Meadows in the Sky Parkway is typically open by late May, but check for exact opening dates due to snowmelt. Bring layers and bear spray.

Riverside Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch by the Columbia River, taking in the serene surroundings after your morning hikes.

Sutherland Falls Viewpoint

Visit the viewpoint for Sutherland Falls, accessible via a short path from the Revelstoke Ferry Terminal (upper portion of the falls).

A powerful waterfall with great photo opportunities.

Campfire & Relaxation

Return to your campsite to relax, prepare dinner over the campfire, and enjoy the evening under the stars.

Check for fire bans before lighting a campfire. Enjoy stargazing!

Breakfast & Pack Up Camp

Enjoy breakfast at your campsite, then efficiently pack up your gear, preparing to move to the Nakusp area.

Drive to Halfway Hot Springs Access

Drive from Revelstoke towards Nakusp, then turn onto the logging road to access Halfway Hot Springs.

This part of the drive requires attention as the road can be rough.

A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the logging road, and 4x4 can be beneficial depending on recent conditions. Download offline maps as cell service is limited.

Hike Down to Halfway Hot Springs

From the parking area, embark on the hike down to the hot springs.

It involves approximately 150 stairs, so be prepared for the return climb!

Wear sturdy shoes and bring a day pack with water, snacks, towel, and swimwear. There are no facilities at the springs.

Soak at Halfway Hot Springs

Enjoy a well-deserved soak in the natural, rustic pools of Halfway Hot Springs, right beside the Halfway River.

The various pools offer different temperatures.

Respect the natural environment; pack out everything you pack in. Be aware of other visitors and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Hike Up & Set Up Camp

Hike back up from the springs.

You can either find a spot at the basic Halfway River Hot Springs Rec Site (first-come, first-served, very limited amenities) or drive towards Nakusp for a provincial park campsite.

If camping at the Rec Site, arrive early. For more amenities, consider a provincial park near Nakusp.

Optional Morning Hot Springs Soak

For those who can't get enough, an optional morning return to Halfway Hot Springs for another relaxing soak before the crowds arrive.

Consider if you want to tackle the hike down and up again, or if you prefer to move on to other activities.

Drive to Nakusp & Lunch

Drive from the Halfway area to the charming town of Nakusp.

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or restaurant.

Nakusp Waterfront Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Nakusp Waterfront Walkway, enjoying views of Arrow Lakes and the surrounding mountains.

Visit the iconic Nakusp Hot Springs Sign.

A great spot for photos and to simply unwind.

Local Trail Hike

Explore one of the local hiking trails near Nakusp, such as the Kimbol Lake Trail or the Kuskanax Creek Footbridge Trail, offering varying levels of difficulty and scenic beauty.

Check local trail conditions and choose a hike that matches your energy levels. Bring plenty of water.

Camp & Dinner

Return to your campsite near Nakusp (or find a new one if you moved from Halfway Hot Springs Rec Site) for dinner and relaxation.

Enjoy a final evening in the beautiful Kootenays. Consider gathering firewood if permitted.

Breakfast & Pack Up Camp

Enjoy your last Kootenay breakfast and pack up your campsite, preparing for the drive back towards Kelowna.

Drive Towards Okanagan Connector

Begin the scenic drive from Nakusp, possibly taking the ferry across Upper Arrow Lake from Shelter Bay to Galena Bay (check schedule), then continuing south on Highway 23 and Highway 6, eventually connecting to the Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C).

The ferry is free but operates on a schedule; check BC Ferries for current times to plan accordingly. Enjoy the stunning mountain and lake views.

Picnic Lunch with a View

Find a scenic spot along your route to enjoy a packed picnic lunch.

There are many pull-offs and provincial parks with picnic areas along Highway 6 or 97C.

Short Leg Stretch Hike

Stop for a short, easy hike to break up the drive.

Consider Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park near Vernon if you route that way, or a trail near Merritt or along the Okanagan Connector for fresh air.

Choose a trail based on signage and time available. This is a good opportunity to see another side of BC's natural beauty.

Final Camp for the Trip

Set up camp at a provincial park or private campground closer to Kelowna, making your final day's drive shorter.

Consider a spot in the Okanagan Valley or near Merritt.

Booking this last campsite in advance is also a good idea, especially for a Saturday night.

Scenic Drive to Kelowna

Enjoy a final scenic drive through the British Columbia landscape as you make your way back to Kelowna from the Kootenay region.

Stop at viewpoints along the way for photos and to stretch your legs.

Lunch in Downtown Kelowna

Arrive in Kelowna and enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant.

Consider a spot with lake views or a patio to soak in the Okanagan atmosphere.

Many casual dining options are available. Suggestion: Central Kitchen & Bar or The Train Station Pub for a relaxed vibe.

Okanagan Lake Waterfront Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade of Okanagan Lake.

Enjoy the fresh air, watch the boats, and reflect on your adventure. You can visit City Park or Waterfront Park.

Look out for Ogopogo statues! Parking is available near City Park or the Dolphins statue.

Farewell Dinner in Kelowna

Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner to cap off your road trip.

Choose a restaurant that appeals to you, perhaps one offering local Okanagan wine and cuisine.

For a refined meal, consider Raudz Regional Table (reservations recommended). For a more casual option, check out Earls on Top for lake views, or Mission Hill Family Estate for a winery dining experience (a short drive out of downtown).