OUR COMMUNITIES
Kootenay
Mountain valleys and character towns define the region, from Nelson and Rossland to Cranbrook, Kimberley, Invermere, Golden and Trail. Residents enjoy lakes, hot springs and backcountry access, with a mix of arts, heritage high streets and resource and tourism jobs. Regional airports support travel within the Interior.
Kootenay
Kootenay Region Communities
Canal Flats
A small Columbia Valley community with rivers, forests and mountains all around. Fishing, boating and quiet backroads make outdoor plans feel effortless. Residents rely on nearby towns for larger shops and appointments, which keeps things calm at home.
Castlegar
Set where the Columbia and Kootenay rivers meet, Castlegar balances neighbourhood living with a practical mix of services. Schools, shops and parks sit close together, which keeps routines straightforward. Regional travel is simple from here and outdoor time is always nearby.
Cranbrook
The largest centre in the East Kootenays, Cranbrook brings shops, schools, health care and everyday services together in one place. Paths, parks and nearby lakes keep four season recreation simple to plan. It works well for busy routines while staying close to mountains and open country.
Creston
A valley community near Kootenay Lake with agriculture, markets and a friendly main street. Paths and nearby hills make walking and hiking simple to work into routines. Daily errands are covered locally, with regional trips planned as needed.
Elkford
High in the Rockies, Elkford offers quiet streets, big scenery and quick access to nature. Residents make the most of trails, rivers and open spaces through the year. Daily needs are met locally, with specialised services in neighbouring communities.
Fernie
Historic streets and a lively mountain scene make Fernie feel energetic year round. Trails, rivers and lift served terrain keep plans simple for families and adventurers alike. The town centre handles day to day needs, with regional services an easy trip.
Fruitvale
A small village close to Trail that keeps life simple with shops, parks and local services. Walking paths and nearby lakes make easy weekend plans. For hospitals, major shopping and flights, residents use the larger centres next door.
Golden
A mountain town with national parks in every direction and a strong four season outdoor culture. The compact centre covers daily needs, and a district hospital serves the area. Life feels adventurous yet practical, with travel routes and services close by.
Grand Forks
The Boundary hub between the Okanagan and the Kootenays offers a compact centre with markets and local shops. Christina Lake and nearby trails shape relaxed weekends through the warmer months. Essentials are in town, and larger services are a straightforward drive.
Greenwood
A small city in the Boundary area with heritage buildings and a friendly pace. Trails, parks and nearby lakes make outdoor time straightforward in every season. Daily needs are in town, with regional services reached quickly by car.
Invermere
On Windermere Lake in the Columbia Valley, Invermere mixes small town ease with resort style recreation. Beaches, hot springs and nearby mountain resorts anchor weekends in every season. Shops and services are in town, with regional outings a straightforward drive.
Kaslo
A character town on Kootenay Lake with quiet streets, shoreline parks and a creative spirit. Life moves at an easy pace with walking, paddling and short scenic drives. Core services are in town, with broader shopping in neighbouring centres.
Kimberley
A friendly mountain community a short drive from Cranbrook that blends village charm with modern amenities. Skiing, hiking and biking shape the calendar, and paths link parks and neighbourhoods. You get a relaxed pace without giving up practical access to services.
Midway
A Boundary village with a compact centre and a strong sense of history. River access, trails and quiet streets shape daily routines. Many errands are local, with bigger shops a short highway run away.
Montrose
A tidy village near Trail and Fruitvale with a strong community feel. Residents enjoy local parks, viewpoints and quick access to regional amenities. It is peaceful day to day, with larger errands handled in the nearby city.
Nakusp
On Upper Arrow Lake, Nakusp is known for hot springs, lake views and a welcoming main street. Trails and gentle waterfront walks add simple recreation to most days. Essentials are covered locally, with regional trips planned when needed.
Nelson
A lively small city on Kootenay Lake with heritage streets, cafés and arts woven into daily life. Beaches, rail trails and a nearby ski area make active days easy in every season. Most errands are walkable, with wider regional services reached quickly by car.
Radium
Framed by mountains and wetlands at the gateway to a national park, Radium suits an easygoing outdoor rhythm. Hot springs and trails set the tone for weekends in every season. Shops and services are in the village, with larger options a short drive.
Salmo
A tidy village near Trail and Fruitvale with a strong community feel. Residents enjoy local parks, viewpoints and quick access to regional amenities. It is peaceful day to day, with larger errands handled in the nearby city.
Sparwood
An Elk Valley community with a close connection to mountain industry and outdoor life. Trails, rivers and winter terrain are part of everyday conversations. Essentials are available in town, with broader services reached quickly in nearby centres.
Trail
A riverside city with a long sporting tradition and strong community facilities. Daily needs are covered in town, from shopping and dining to health care and schools. Trails, viewpoints and nearby hills make it easy to get outside through the year.