Experienced travellers know – the best time to travel in B.C. is right now.
With fewer crowds and off-season rates, the fall months offer adventurers, explorers, and those simply seeking a quiet getaway the opportunity to go farther for less and maybe even discover something or somewhere entirely new along the way.
Located in the West Kootenays, Arrow Lakes and Slocan Valley are two distinct areas that form a single regional destination known as Arrow Slocan. Typically regarded as a hot springs destination by the surrounding areas, the Arrow Slocan region remains a hidden gem to most of us on the Lower Mainland, despite offering so much to those seeking natural beauty and authentic experiences when travelling.
A hot travel destination year-round
Regarded as one of the most laid-back destinations in the province, Arrow Slocan offers you the opportunity to unplug and immerse yourself in its quiet and peaceful surroundings, particularly when visiting its most well-known and beloved feature: the hot springs.
The region’s two most popular hot springs, Halcyon Hot Springs Resort and Nakusp Hot Springs are each situated in their own natural paradise where you can enjoy scenery and serenity courtesy of the region’s unique natural mineral content that you won’t find anywhere else in the world, let alone B.C. Of course, the hot springs aren’t the only way to connect in nature while you’re here.
Arrow Slocan boasts stunning fall foliage, sparkling lakes, and unspoiled natural spaces, offering a less crowded and more tranquil alternative to more popular destinations like the Thompson-Okanagan region, the Rocky Mountain region, Nelson, or Revelstoke. A one-hour flight from Vancouver into Castlegar plus a short 20-minute drive into the region, or a scenic eight-hour fall road trip, Arrow Slocan is truly generous in experience for such a short trip.
The surrounding mountains, rivers, and lakes shape a destination that beckons exploration, offering diverse outdoor activities, from action-packed mountain biking to reposeful hiking trails, golf courses, cycling tours, and paddling on majestic lakes. With two valleys to choose from, it’s just a matter of deciding whether you’re seeking tranquillity or adventure during your visit.
The environment is also at the forefront of the region’s stunning food scene, particularly during harvest season. The area is rich in local producers and artisans, many of whom source fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, with ample opportunity to sample delicious craft beer, local wine, fresh baking, and much more.
Indulge your inner adventurer and artist
While the surroundings are astounding, the local flair will keep you coming back to Arrow Slocan well after your first, second, (and third) visits. Arrow Slocan prides itself in its local culture, artisans, and makers, creating a distinct and authentic experience for locals and visitors that’s a far cry from more commercial destinations in the province.
Painters, sculptors, and photographers make up much of the thriving art scene in the Slocan Valley, whose work you can view in small independent galleries, cafes, and markets throughout the region’s scenic mountain towns. Like its food, whatever you find in Arrow Slocan, you can bet it’s homemade.
From Nakusp to New Denver, to Passmore, and Slocan Park, plenty of galleries, studios, jewellers, creative boutiques, gift shops, and bookstores offer treasures just waiting to be discovered. You just need to know where to look.
So whether you’re seeking soft outdoor experiences, culinary delights, artistic exploration, or simply want to spend a weekend in a hot spring, Arrow Slocan can help make every moment of your fall journey a masterpiece.
To learn more or start planning your visit today, visit arrowslocan.com/fall-delights.
