Creston Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Creston, British Columbia, with our in-depth travel guide. Explore the charming town's cultural attractions, natural wonders, dining scene, and more.


Introduction to Creston

Nestled in the heart of West Kootenays in British Columbia, Canada, Creston offers a serene and scenic escape for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. Surrounded by the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, Creston sits at the convergence of the Kootenay and Goat Rivers, offering a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Beyond its natural offerings, Creston also boasts a rich history and vibrant culture, with numerous museums and cultural centers, as well as a burgeoning food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Creston

No visit to Creston would be complete without a tour of its must-visit attractions, which include:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Creston Museum: Discover the town’s history through exhibits featuring artifacts, photos, and tales of the First Nations people and pioneers who settled in Creston.
  • Kuskanook Harbour Heritage Centre: Explore the region’s fishing industry and maritime history through interactive displays and exhibits of historical boats.
  • Creston & District Community Complex: Home to the Kunze Gallery, which showcases the works of local artists, and the Creston & District Public Library.

Natural Attractions of Creston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kootenay Wildlife Heritage Park: Get up close to local wildlife like grizzly bears, bison, and elk in their natural habitats.
  • Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area: This 17,000-acre wetland preserve is home to over 300 species of birds and other animals, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
  • Skimmerhorn Winery: Experience the region’s thriving wine scene while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and local vineyards.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Creston

For outdoor enthusiasts, Creston offers a great selection of hiking and biking trails for all skill levels, such as:

  • Goat Mountain Trail: A 7.7 km (4.8 mi) hike through forested areas and scenic lookouts with panoramic views of surrounding mountains.
  • Creston Valley Rail Trail: An easy 20 km (12.4 mi) trail suitable for walkers and cyclists passing through scenic farmland and birdwatching areas.
  • St. Mary’s Lake Trail: A scenic 11 km (6.8 mi) hike passing through old-growth forest, waterfalls, and swimming spots.

Best Things to Do in Creston: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking and biking, Creston offers a plethora of other exciting activities and tours, including:

  • Guided fishing trips.
  • Horseback riding adventures in the Selkirk Mountains.
  • Whitewater rafting on the Kootenay River.
  • Quesnel Forks Ghost Town Tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Creston

For travelers planning an extended stay in Creston, here is a sample one-week itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Creston Museum / Kuskanook Heritage Centre
2 Skimmerhorn Winery / Wildlife Heritage Park
3 Hike to Goat Mountain / Visit Kokanee Creek Park
4 St. Mary’s Lake Trail / Guided fishing trip
5 Horseback riding in Selkirk Mountains / Visit Creston Valley Farmers’ Market
6 Whitewater rafting on Kootenay River / Quesnel Forks Ghost Town Tour
7 Relax at local hot springs / Visit local breweries and distilleries

Food and Drink Scene of Creston

From locally-sourced ingredients to award-winning wines, Creston’s food and drink scene has something for every epicurean. Must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kootenay Wild Game Platter – A selection of smoked salmon, bison, elk, deer, and wild boar meat.
  • Rocky Mountain Range Pizza – A pizza topped with elk, bison, and wild boar meat.
  • Apple Cinnamon Baked Brie – A baked brie topped with local apples and cinnamon.

Local Beverages

  • Columbia Brewery – One of the oldest breweries in BC, offering a selection of craft beers.
  • Skimmerhorn Winery – A small, family-owned winery offering handcrafted wines with sweeping mountain views.
  • Wynnwood Cellars – A charming winery and vineyard offering award-winning wines and stunning panoramas.

Where to Stay in Creston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Creston offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious lodges. Here are some top picks:

  • Creston Hotel & Suites – A centrally located boutique hotel with modern amenities, including a fitness center, hot tub, and continental breakfast.
  • Sunset Motel – A budget-friendly option with clean, modern rooms and impressive views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Creston Valley Motel – A charming, family-run motel located near downtown Creston.

What to Buy in Creston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shop for unique souvenirs and local products in Creston, including:

  • Creston Valley Farmers’ Market – Held every Saturday from May to September, this market features fresh produce, artisan goods, and local crafts.
  • Fly in the Fibre – A craft store offering handcrafted items, knitting supplies, and specialty yarns made by local artisans.
  • Skimmerhorn Winery – Purchase locally produced wines with stunning mountain views from the winery’s tasting room.

Local Culture and Customs of Creston

Creston has a rich agricultural heritage with a strong focus on farm-to-table cuisine and sustainable living. Visitors will experience a community committed to preserving and enhancing the natural environment while promoting cultural diversity and an active lifestyle.

Best Time to Visit Creston

The best time to visit Creston is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. September offers beautiful fall foliage and is ideal for wine enthusiasts, while winter brings the opportunity to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Creston

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the natural beauty of Creston.
  • Do support the local food and drink scene.
  • Do visit the town’s cultural and historical attractions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and appropriate outdoor gear.
  • Don’t leave trash or disturb local wildlife.
  • Don’t forget to tip at restaurants and for tours.

Safety and Health

Safety in Creston

Creston is a safe and welcoming community, but visitors should be aware of changing weather conditions, especially if planning outdoor activities. It’s also important to take precautions against wildlife encounters, including carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking or biking.

Health in Creston

Creston has a modern health center offering medical and dental services, as well as a 24-hour emergency department.

Getting to Creston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Creston

  • Cranbrook/Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC)
  • West Kootenay Regional Airport (YCG)

Bus Stations Near Creston

  • Creston Bus Station (Greyhound)

Other Options

  • Driving: Creston can be reached by car through the scenic Highway 3.
  • Cycling: Creston is a popular destination for cyclists, and bicycle rentals are available in town.

How to Get Around in Creston

Creston is a walkable and bike-friendly town, with most attractions and amenities located in the town center. Taxis and public transit are available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Creston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Creston, visitors can extend their trip by visiting nearby destinations like:

  • Kootenay National Park: A stunning national park with hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic drives.
  • Nelson: A charming mountain town known for its arts and cultural scene.
  • Ainsworth Hot Springs: Relax in the hot springs or explore the nearby hiking trails.

Conclusion

With its outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and thriving food and drink scene, Creston offers travelers a delightful escape to the heart of the West Kootenays. Plan your trip today and experience everything this charming town has to offer.

Grain elevators in Creston Grain elevators in Creston Creston's welcome sign Creston's welcome sign Skimmerhorn Mountains in Creston Skimmerhorn Mountains in Creston link= link= link= link= link= link= link= link= link= link=