Kaslo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture in Kaslo, British Columbia with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kaslo

Nestled in the West Kootenays in British Columbia, Kaslo is a charming little town that’s perfect for lovers of untouched natural beauty and local artistry. With a colourful history dating back to the late 1800s, a lively food and drink scene, and a variety of outdoor activities, Kaslo is a wonderful destination to experience the best of British Columbia. Here’s our guide to the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture in Kaslo.

List of Places to Visit in Kaslo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For travelers who are interested in taking a look back at the town’s unique past, there are several historical places and museums in Kaslo:

  • Langham Cultural Centre: A historic building that used to be a Masonic Lodge and now acts as a cultural centre, featuring exhibitions, performances, and workshops by local and traveling artists.
  • SS Moyie National Historic Site: The oldest intact sternwheeler in Canada, now docked in Kaslo, offers exhibits on the history of sternwheelers in the Kootenays.
  • Kaslo and Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centre: Offers numerous brochures and information on the local area.

Natural Attractions of Kaslo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kaslo is surrounded by mountains and forests, making outdoor activities a primary attraction for visitors. The area has several spots for nature lovers to explore:

  • Kootenay Lake: The second-largest freshwater lake in British Columbia, offering everything from swimming to boating, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park: Get in touch with your wild side and explore the park’s glaciers, hiking trails, and campgrounds.
  • Kaslo River Trail: This flat, easy path runs along the Kaslo River and is perfect for a leisurely hike, offering spots for picnicking and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaslo

Those who want to enjoy the great outdoors can explore Kaslo’s many hiking and biking trails. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Kaslo River Trail: As previously mentioned, this trail is a must-visit due to its stunning natural surroundings.
  • Fletcher Creek Trail: Adventurous hikers looking for a challenge can test their skills on this challenging, 6-hour hike with breathtaking views of Fletcher Creek.
  • Morning Mountain: This scenic mountain offers great views, and the variety of trails available suit all levels of fitness.

Best Things to Do in Kaslo: Activities and Tours

Beyond outdoor activities, there are still plenty of things to do in Kaslo. These are our top picks:

  • Kaslo Jazz Etc. Festival: Every August, Kaslo comes alive with the sounds of jazz, blues, and other music genres at this four-day festival.
  • Kaslo Saturday Market: Open every Saturday from late May until early September, this market features local produce, art, and crafts.
  • Kaslo Kayaking: Take to the waters and enjoy kayaking in the scenic lake and river.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kaslo

To make the most of your visit to Kaslo, here’s a sample week-long itinerary that covers the best of what Kaslo has to offer:

Day 1 - Discover Langham Cultural Centre, a historic building that now acts as a cultural center with exhibitions, performances, and workshops by local and traveling artists. Day 2 - Visit the Kokanee Glacier, and enjoy a day hiking amidst stunning natural scenery. Day 3 - Spend the day kayaking in Kootenay Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in British Columbia, with ample opportunities to cool off in the water. Day 4 - Visit SS Moyie National Historic Site, which offers exhibits on the history of sternwheelers in the Kootenays. Day 5 - Head out on a scenic bike ride through the Morning Mountain trail to soak up the lush scenery. Day 6 - Enjoy a picnic and birdwatching on the relaxing Kaslo River Trail. Day 7 - End your stay in Kaslo at the Kaslo Jazz Etc. Festival – four days packed with music and fun.

Food and Drink Scene of Kaslo

Must-Try Dishes

What better way to explore a new town than by sampling its cuisine? Here are some local dishes you should try while in Kaslo:

  • Garlic prawns: Served at many local restaurants, this dish is a definite crowd-pleaser.
  • Kaslo sourdough bread: Made using traditional techniques, this bread is essential to any local meal.
  • Artisanal cheeses and meats: The area is home to many local farms that produce delicious cheeses and meats, making for perfect midday snacking.

Local Beverages

Don’t forget to try these local beverages while in Kaslo:

  • BC craft beer: The local beer scene is exploding with options such as Moonbrew and Nelson Brewing Company available on tap at many bars and restaurants.
  • Kootenay-roasted coffee: Locally roasted beans that good that companies like Oso Negro Coffee can easily produce high quality coffee repeatedly.

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

There are many places to stay in the area around Kaslo, whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a more luxurious stay. These are our top picks:

  • The Kaslo Motel: Offering convenient access to downtown Kaslo and its amenities, this motel offers a range of affordable classic rooms.
  • Kaslo Bay Resort: Located just five minutes from town, this resort is perched on the bay but contains all kinds of amenities.
  • Kaslo Hotel: The Kaslo Hotel has been a central hub of Kaslo since 1896, located downtown it is a great place to stay and enjoy the charming city.

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

Kaslo is brimming with locally-made products and souvenirs that make great gifts and are perfect for capturing memories of your trip. Here are some great options:

  • Artisan crafts: The region has a rich history of traditional crafts, with handmade pottery, glasswork, and textiles being available at many area shops.
  • Kootenay-roasted coffee: Smokey Joes in town roasts a variety of beans in-house.
  • Local beers and wine: Crescent Valley’s Baumgartner vineyard offers traditional grape varieties in the great Kootenay climate.

Local Culture and Customs of Kaslo

Kaslo is a town with a rich history. Logging and mining were prominent industries in the past, and the town has seen shifts as tourism has taken on. Nowadays, the town offers a unique mix of ancient and progressive culture in a world class mountain backdrop.

Best Time to Visit Kaslo

The summer months offer the best weather for enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and biking. The fall is another magical time to visit the area, where stunning colors cover the landscape, making a perfect setting for long walks and hikes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kaslo

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink scene.
  • Research and book outdoor activities ahead of time.
  • Respect and appreciate the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter and damage the beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Hike without gear or preparation.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kaslo

Kaslo is a small, safe town overall – a wonderful feature of the community. While hiking and biking outdoors, hikers should always bring plenty of water, food, and appropriate clothing just in case changes in weather occur.

Health in Kaslo

Kaslo’s climate is dry in the summer months, meaning it can get hot and dehydrating sometimes, so remember to drink plenty of water. Sunscreen is also essential during hot months as well.

Getting to Kaslo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kaslo

The nearest major airport is the Kelowna International Airport in Kelowna, an approximate three and a half hour drive from Kaslo. Nelson and Castlegar have smaller regional airports but less options for flights.

Bus Stations Near Kaslo

Greyhound offers daily bus services to locations such as Nelson and Revelstoke daily.

Other Options

Car and camper rentals are available in Nelson and other nearby locations and allow visitors greater flexibility to visit nearby locations outside Kaslo town centre.

How to Get Around in Kaslo

If you prefer to walk, Kaslo’s small size means you can explore much of it on foot easily. Alternatively, bicycles and scooters are available to rent in the downtown area.

Where to Go Next from Kaslo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kaslo makes for a perfect addition to your Canadian bucket-list adventure. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • Nelson: Nelson is a vibrant mountain town with a thriving arts community about a hour’s drive south on the Kootenay Lake Ferry.
  • Fernie: Approximately three hours to the southeast is Fernie, a popular hub for adventure tourists in the wintertime.
  • Revelstoke: For a mountain adventure in British Columbia with a cozy downtown feel, try out Revelstoke, located an hour east of town by car.

Conclusion

Kaslo is a town of mountains, lakes, rivers, and wild adventures – perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, or biking in the great outdoors, soaking in history and local culture, sampling the local wine, or simply relaxing, this charming town in British Columbia truly has something for everyone. Come soak it all in today.

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