Kootenay Lake — Attraction in Area E (Balfour/Cottonwood Lake)

This is one drop-dead gorgeous lake in British Columbia, Canada. I was 13 the first time I had the privilege of visiting this inspirational lake and the forests that surround it. The people have always been inviting. If it was a place that I called home, I'd want to keep it a secret. Word of mouth travels fast, but the internet blows it out of the water. It will forever be changed, now that its secrets have escaped our grasp! This is a place that was created by Mother Nature and shaped by Father Time. It is truly stunning when seen in person. Pictures don't give you the jaw-dropping moments that you will experience.😲 It is a bucket list worthy destination and something that I can only describe as an all sensory experience!🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁 The lake is about 65 miles long, and about 3 miles at its widest and is approximately 490 ft deep. The water is very cold, and if it's not a HOT (can't emphasize the word hot enough. Lol) summer day, it can take your breath away. I've seen all kinds of boats on this lake, but on windy days, it tends to draw sail boats. They've got plenty of room to navigate. There's trails, numerous beaches, and plenty to see while you're here. There's also a ferry crossing on the northern end of the lake, taking you from the eastern shore of the lake to the western edge. While you're here, stop and see The Glass House. It was made from embalming bottles and has amazing views of the lake and surrounding mountains. As always, leave no trace (please), leave it better than you found it (please), and...

I love everything about this place. The people, the water, the surroundings. If you've just come from Chistina lake you're going to find this one quite a bit cooler, but don't let that scare you. On a hot day, it's the place to be. Many hidden beaches along the banks. Just be careful at 6 mile Beach, there is a heavy undertow current at the end of the sand peak that has been the demise of more than one child or pet. Great early morning fishing. Be safe, have fun. Love the area and please pack out what...

An iconic lake in my life with so many great beaches (Taghum, Lakeside, Troop, 5 Mile, 6 Mile) and that's only what you can hit without a boat.

If you're not familiar, the Lake you see in Nelson is actually a relatively small branch of the main lake. It is quite a bit different than the main body in terms of temperature, fishing, access, etc. More like a big, slow moving river.

Hit Balfour or Kaslo for good access to the main lake. Waves get big without warning...