The Columbia Valley is in southeastern British Columbia, nestled between the beautiful Rocky and Purcell Mountain ranges. With cozy lodging options, natural hot springs, fantastic restaurants, and endless activities, this area has everything you need for a rejuvenating mountain getaway.
Looking to enjoy the mountains in Canada without the hustle and bustle of Banff? The Columbia Valley in British Columbia is your ticket to an unforgettable weekend filled with big adventures and stunning scenery.
A short and scenic 90-minute drive from Banff, The Columbia Valley is home to the communities of Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Panorama, Windermere, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Canal Flats. This is our go-to region for incredible hikes and biking trails, with fewer crowds and a more local feel.
Throughout The Columbia Valley, we invite you to discover warm water lakes, beautiful beaches, hot springs, charming communities, gorgeous hiking trails, and unlimited adventure. Often referred to as the “Warm Side of the Rockies” The Columbia Valley enjoys milder winters and long seasons of hiking, camping, golfing, and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Find more in The Columbia Valley by exploring the endless activities and experiences that await.
Day 1: Arrival in Radium Hot Springs
Start your adventure by arriving in Radium Hot Springs, a charming town in the Columbia Valley. If you are driving in from Alberta, you could stop at several viewpoints or short walks in Kootenay National Park. A few of our favourites include:
- The Paint Pots
- Olive Lake
- Marble Canyon
- Numa Creek
Check into Radius Retreat
Once arriving in Radium, your first stop is Radius Retreat, where you’ll check into your one-of-a-kind yurt. These hike-in yurts immerse you in the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.
Each one is heated with a wood stove and offers plush mattresses, a private deck, an outdoor firepit, an outhouse, a skylight, an outdoor stove and a bear-safe food storage area. Depending on which yurt you book, the hike ranges from a few hundred feet to 2.5 kilometres, but we promise the seclusion and beauty are 100% worth it.
Make sure to bring a backpack with your sleeping bag, pillows, clothing, and any food or cookware you plan to use. Firewood and fire starters are provided. For a full packing list, click here.
With its open concept and large windows, the retreat’s yurts allow you to soak in the views of the surrounding forest right from your bed. We loved having our private outdoor area with a view where we could enjoy the fire and the stillness of nature. Plus, the retreat has over 12 kilometres of uninhabited trails to explore.
Here are our top accommodation picks in Radium:
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Dinner at The Old Salzburg
After settling in, head into Radium for dinner at The Old Salzburg, a beloved local spot. Here, you can enjoy a hearty Austrian meal in their warm atmosphere. The menu has countless options, ensuring everyone in your group will find something they love.
We had a Bauren Salad, Cordon Bleu, and Old Salzburg Steak; everything was fantastic! Reservations are recommended on weekends in the busy season, but you can also try your luck as a walk-in.
Dessert at Screamers or the Old Tyme Candy Shop
No trip to Radium is complete without a stop at Screamers, a vintage ice cream cafe that has been family-owned for 25 years! Grab a scoop of your favourite flavour, or try a crepe, ice cream sandwich or banana split instead.
If you’re more of a candy person, check out the Old Tyme Candy Shoppe across the street. They have an extensive selection of retro, imported, and novelty confections
from around the world, complemented by handmade chocolates & fudge.
Day 2: Explore the Hiking Trails
Breakfast at Big Horn Cafe
Rise and shine early and start your day at Big Horn Cafe. This local gem offers fantastic coffee and a breakfast menu that caters to all dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options.
We ordered a couple of lattes, a Vegan Curry Pastie, and a Bacon Breakfast Sandwich to go. The staff were very friendly, and everything was delicious!
Hike to Welsh Lakes
Next, it’s time to embark on a hike to Welsh Lakes. This stunning destination is worth the effort, especially when the larches transform into a sea of golden hues in the fall. The trailhead is located at the end of a logging road, about an hour’s drive from Radium.
You only truly need a 4X4 vehicle to tackle the last 1.5 km. If you don’t have one but are comfortable driving on gravel roads, you can park just before the steep stretch and hike the last bit.
IMPORTANT: Before departing on this hike, wrap chicken wire (provided at the trailhead) around the bottom of your vehicle and prop it up with sticks and rocks. This keeps the resident porcupines from chewing on and destroying your tires, breaks, lines, etc.
This hike to the lower lake is 8 kilometres round trip and involves 500 metres of elevation gain. The views from the shore are absolutely spectacular! If you have the stamina to continue, Middle Welsh Lake adds 4.5 kilometres and 215 metres of elevation gain to your climb. You can also carry on to Upper Welsh Lake, but the trail is not well-defined.
We spent most of the afternoon hanging out on the shore in awe of the gorgeous reflection in front of us. Make sure to pack a lunch, your camera, lots of water, and even a swimsuit for this hike! We regretted not bringing ours at the end of September.
Relax at Radium Hot Springs
After an exhilarating day of hiking, drive to Radium Hot Springs. Here, you can enjoy astounding mountain views as you let the warm water melt away any lingering tension in your muscles.
Located just across the border of Kootenay National Park, Radium Hot Springs has a rich history that dates back to the Indigenous peoples who first discovered its healing properties. The springs were popularized in the 1900s, attracting visitors seeking relief from ailments and the chance to bask in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Today, Radium Hot Springs remains a local favourite year-round.
The Columbia Valley boasts several other hot spring options if you’re in the mood for more thermal adventures. A short drive away, you can explore Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, known for its expansive pools and family-friendly atmosphere, or search for some of the undeveloped pools around Canal Flats, like Lussier Hot Springs.
Dinner at Ullr Bar in Invermere
Once you’ve fully relaxed, drive to Invermere and enjoy dinner at Ullr Bar. Their menu is extensive, with options that cater to every dietary requirement. From tasty appetizers to hearty mains, you’re sure to leave satisfied.
David and I have been here a few times, and every dish has been remarkable. We highly recommend The Crispy Taters, The Motherclucker, The Lemon Pesto Farfalle, and The Smoked Chicken & Chutney Melt.
Day 3: Enjoy The Valley’s Amenities and Activities
Morning Coffee on the Deck
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning at the yurt. Make a cup of coffee on the deck and soak in the peaceful surroundings one last time. The sound of birds and early morning light filtering through the trees is a perfect way to start the day.
Check-out is at 10 a.m., which gives you plenty of time to explore The Columbia Valley on your last day here.
Breakfast at Beginnings Cafe
There are many great local breakfast spots, but we recommend heading into Invermere for breakfast at Begginnings Cafe. The food here is unreal, and the menu offers items for all dietary needs.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make this a great place to recharge for your day of exploration. We highly recommend The Begginnings Smash Bowl, That New New, The Breakfast Bun, and a Lavender Latte.
Shopping in Invermere
After breakfast, take some time to explore the charming shops around town. From unique gifts to trendy clothing, bakeries, and candle shops, you’ll find plenty to browse. This is a great place to pick up a souvenir or two to remember your trip.
Paddleboarding at Lillian Lake
Next, if the weather is nice, head to Lillian Lake for a relaxing paddleboarding session. This small lake is explicitly designated for non-motorized water sports, making it an ideal spot to glide across the water while enjoying the stunning mountain backdrop.
You can either bring your own paddleboard or rent one at a local gear shop. This lake can also be explored via canoe or kayak! If you want to navigate a different body of water, try Windermere Lake, Columbia Lake, The Columbia River, or The Columbia River Wetlands.
Afternoon Bike Ride
If you have some energy left, why not hit the bike trails? The area has countless pathways to explore for all ages and skill levels. For a leisurely cruise, visit the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail, a paved path from Invermere to Fairmont Hot Springs. You could also explore the Sinclair Creek Biking Trails for beginner-friendly dirt trails.
For mountain biking trails, check out Kloosifier-Johnson Biking Trails, Nipika Mountain Resort Biking Trails, Old Coach Biking Trails, or Panorama Mountain Resort Biking Trails. You can either bring your bike or rent one from a local gear shop.
We hope you enjoy your time in The Columbia Valley. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or comment below with your favourite activity in this itinerary. We would love to hear from you!
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