In one incredible week, you’ll touch on as many adventure disciplines as humanly possible. Paddle the northern end of Kootenay Lake beneath the impressive peaks of the Selkirk and Purcell Mountains. Raft the exciting Salmo River as it blasts through canyons en route to the 49th parallel, hike in glacial terrain, mountain bike on undulating single track that winds through endless wilderness or take an afternoon to regroup on the patio deck of your quaint lakeside lodge while soaking up vistas of the Purcell and Selkirk mountain ranges. Guests are pampered in beautiful heritage homes and country inns as you are served delicious meals and endless gourmet treats.
Trip Details
Duration
5 Days
Location
Kootenay Lake
Season
June - August
Trip Type
Paddle
Nearest City
Spokane
Physical Condition Required
Fair
Destination(s)
British Columbia, Canada
Guest Capacity
12
Minimum Age Limit
8
Hard Shell Kayaks
Sea Kayaks
Additional Activities
Raft, Sea Kayak, Hike, Mountain Bike
Dining
All Meals Included
About Liquor
Provided
Rates
$2,495.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Sunday Meet in Nelson. Overnight at Willow Point Lodge. (On occasion O.A.R.S. may substitute lodging based on availability and will notify you if necessary.) Check into your rooms and plan to rendezvous in the lobby at 7:00pm for a pre-trip meeting and dinner. Tonight, dine at the All Season’s Café, one of Nelson’s finest eateries and winners of Vancouver Magazines best restaurants and wine lists for under 100-seat restaurant.
Day 2: Monday After a gourmet breakfast, shuttle to hiking trails. There are a plethora of options available for every fitness level. The Valhallas, Stag Leap, Kokanee - the options are endless. You may hike the Joker Mill site to Slocan Chief Cabin Trail. This steep trail is the shortest route to the central core of the park. There is great fishing in Helen Deane Lake and the trip provides outstanding glacier views, and a look at a historic cabin. It is a frail area covered with wildflowers, so sticking to main trails is essential. This trail is closed during berry season (mid-August to early October) to allow Grizzly bears to feed. No matter what option is chosen, return at the end of the day to your historic accommodations. Tonight, soak your tired muscles in a hot tub before another gourmet night of dining and reflecting on your recent accomplishments. Overnight at Willow Point or Blaylock Mansion.
Day 3: Tuesday Today, raft or inflatable kayak the Salmo River. This world-class adventure features exhilarating whitewater, towering canyons and cascading waterfalls as part of the many superlatives of this class III-IV descent. Emerald green forests and wildlife amidst a backdrop of snow-capped peaks makes this trip a favorite among whitewater enthusiasts, whether beginner or expert. The upper section of the trip provides a scenic and relaxing float that allows you to become accustomed with your craft, while the lower 12 miles will treat you to a roller coaster ride of waves, crashing holes and breathtaking scenery. The volume of these undammed rivers can fluctuate considerably, depending on snow melt and temperature. Overnight at Willow Point or Blaylock Mansion.
Day 4: Wednesday A lesson introduces you to kayaking gear, paddling techniques and safety procedures. Proper ocean kayaking techniques are quick to learn and the boats are easily maneuvered. Each participant is outfitted with a kayak spray skirt to keep the boats dry and separate cargo holds to allow you to store cameras, binoculars – whatever you might want to take with you - on daily outings. After becoming comfortable with the kayaks, head out across the lake toward the slopes of the Purcell Mountains. You may see an osprey or eagle circling above, looking for Kokanee. Overnight at Dayspring Lodge or Wedgwood Manor.
Day 5: Thursday Early risers can do their own exploring in the calm morning waters when wildlife along the shore is often most active. Mountain biking the historic Galena Trail, sea kayaking the north lake and hiking Fry Creek, rock climbing or even learning how to fly fish – the choice is yours. Some may choose to lie at the beach or take in an afternoon of antique shopping and investigating local artisans. Whatever the case, on the way back to civilization, stop for a relaxing soak at Ainsworth Hot springs. Tonight will be an evening of celebration at Dayspring Lodge or Wedgwood Manor.
Day 6: Friday Depart for home at your leisure.
* The itinerary is dependent on lodge availability, weather and participant’s ability. The daily distances can fluctuate depending on weather and activities en route. It doesn’t take long to adjust your clock to these natural cycles.
COMPLIMENTARY VISITOR GUIDES
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