Nelson BC Travel Guide
Sights and Attractions in Nelson, West Kootenay Lake Region
Nestled in the Selkirk Mountains on the west arm of Kootenay Lake is the enchanting town of Nelson, British Columbia. The small city with a population of 10,000 has storybook charm set against a pristine nature backdrop.
Downtown Nelson and Baker Street
The town of Nelson has over 350 designated heritage buildings, many of which are on Baker Street or in close walking distance. The city of Nelson has put together a great walking tour to guide you through the different architectural styles. Buildings not to be missed include the Post Office and Customs House (502 Vernon Street), the Courthouse (320 Ward Street), K.W.C. Block (488-498 Baker Street) and Burns Building (560 Baker Street).
The heart of the downtown core, Baker Street features one-of-a-kind local shops and restaurants. From antiques to hand-made items to colourful accessories for your home, you’ll find friendly shop keepers eager to help.
Cottonwood Market and Cottonwood Falls Park
The largest market in the West Kootenays, Cottonwood Market is open on Saturdays from May to October. The market is uniquely and brilliantly situated beside a waterfall and park. It’s more than just a market to buy local produce. Here you can find ethnic baking, hand-made jewelry, import clothing, hair braiding and live music. Nelson is home to many artists, musicians, writers, and actors who are not afraid to show off their talent at Cottonwood Market.
Cottonwood Falls Park is located at Cottonwood Creek. The falls are man-made as water from the creek has been diverted under Highway 3A through a drainage channel creating Cottonwood Falls. A Japanese friendship garden is also located in the park.
Lakeside Park
Located by the orange bridge on Highway 3A, Lakeside Park is a great place to relax and admire Kootenay Lake and the Selkirk Mountains. The parks features beach front, swimming area, children’s playground, concession stand, and covered picnic area. You can also walk along the waterfront promenade to Chahko Mika Mall or take Streetcar #23 which also goes along the waterfront path. The streetcar runs along a 1.2 kilometre loop from Lakeside Park to Hall Street. A ride on the tram costs $2.
How to Get There
Nelson is situated at the junction between Highway 3A and Highway 6 in the southern interior of British Columbia. By highway, Nelson is an eight hour drive from both Vancouver and Calgary. From Spokane, Washington, the drive to Nelson is three and a half hours.
Air Canada offers daily flights from Vancouver and Calgary into Castlegar Regional Airport, located 40 kilometres from Nelson.
The Kootenay Lake Ferry takes you across Kootenay Lake near Balfour, 35 km east of Nelson on Highway 3A.
Cottonwood Market /Cottonwood Falls Park
Drive to the end of Baker Street heading west and follow the signs to Cottonwood Falls Park. Cottonwood Market is open from May to October, Saturdays 9:30 am – 3:00pm.
Lakeside Park
Head along Highway 3A east, turn right into Lakeside Park just before you see the orange bridge.
