Route Rationale
British Columbia has plenty to offer travelers looking for adventure, culture, and natural beauty, though with so many things to do it becomes difficult to plan a short road trip while being able to take in the breathtaking environment and amazing services. This route aims to provide a solution to that in the form of a weekend getaway route giving travelers a taste of what this province has in store.
Located in between some of Canada’s most thrilling national parks and close to national and provincial borders, this route is easily accessible and gives travelers, upon completing this route, the freedom to continue their journey throughout British Columbia or to pick it up at a later time.
Target Markets
This route is targeting free spirits looking for a thrill, no-hassle travelers yearning for escape, and rejuvenators wanting to forgo their responsibilities.
Perfect for couples or for groups of friends looking for a short and sweet weekend road trip starting at an affordable price. Understanding that consuming alcohol is a part of the experience, this is best suited for ages 19 and up.
Activities that can be included are hiking, skiing, fishing, mountain biking, visiting local wineries and breweries, golfing, bird watching and animal viewing, and simply admiring the scenery. This route is highly customizable to suit the needs of travelers.
Link to route map for group two.
Route Point 1
Golden is conveniently surrounded by six of Canada’s most breathtaking national parks, Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke. The town goes on to offer iconic hiking and mountain biking trails, calm lakes, rushing waterfalls, and is situated along the Columbia and Kicking Horse Rivers. Golden is a perfect starting point for those seeking adventure and natural beauty!
After your adventure enjoy a bottle of B.C craft beer in a welcoming atmosphere created at White Tooth Brewing. Visit their tasting room where you can explore the unique and natural flavours of Belgian-inspired and West Coast beers with friends, family, and fellow adventurers!
From there travel 97.5km to the beginning of the Diana Lake hiking path.
Route Point 2
Diana Lake is a 4 hour out and back 14.5 km hike in East Kootenay. The hike is considered a moderate difficulty level up Mount Norman and is the lead up to the Mount Judge hike. The trailhead can be accessed down a service road that at low speeds any car should be able to make all the way. The views of the lake at the top are breathtakingly beautiful with great places to stop for a picnic. This hike is an excellent way to get out in nature and burn off some calories before continuing along the route towards the next destination to enjoy a bit of pampering.
Return to the trailhead and travel 30.2km to Radium Hot Springs
Route Point 3
Radium Hot Springs is a magical and beautiful location where guests can relax and rejuvenate after a long day. The naturally heated water and surrounding mountains provide guests an amazing environment to let go of their responsibilities and melt away. They also have spa services for guests to take advantage of. After soaking in natural minerals or getting a massage, have a bite to eat with friends at the Riverside Bar and experience their live in-house music!
Enjoy local arts and crafts at the Glass Art Show and Sale hosted in Radium Hot Springs. Created by local artists and all-glass artworks are inspired by the wild beauty of Kootenay National Park! Pieces can be bought or admired at the visitor centre or at the various gift shops and cafés.
Continue 36.7km to Fairmont Hot Springs.
Route Point 4
If one was not enough, Fairmont Hot Springs offers crystal clear mineral water for guests to continue soaking in at this all-year-round establishment. The Hot Springs Resort also holds the annual East Kootenay Wine, Beer, and Music Festival, where guests can enjoy the local brew and dance to the music of local artists. The wine and beer tastings are also available all year long!
Enjoy the views and travel 107km to Cranbrook.
Route Point 5
The last point of the route is Cranbrook, the Sunshine City, located on the west side of the Kootenay River. Cranbrook has several amazing trails for biking and hiking, and its rivers and streams are perfect for fly fishing and rafting. An excellent place to either head home or to continue the journey further into the province!
The city is home to Heid Out & Fisher Peak Brewing Co. where they craft an excellent selection of beers and a wide array of B.C. made wines! A perfect place to pick up a memento and to conclude the journey of the breathtaking views, challenging peaks, and rejuvenating springs! Just a taste of what the province of British Columbia can offer!
Cheers ~