Central Kootenay Region
Power Your Future Here
about the Region
Nestled among the Monashee, Selkirk and Purcell mountain glaciers spill into the Kootenay and Arrow Lakes in the Central Kootenay. Start your day in the Creston Valley, wind your way to the East Shore from Wynndel to Riondel past a glass castle. Next hop on the region’s free inland ferry system criss-crossing your way along the shoreline to Ainsworth Hot Springs, Kaslo, North Kootenay Lake and Nelson BC.
Creative Soul
The Central Kootenay region boasts a vibrant arts & culture scene. Known for its creative vibe, outdoor art, murals, sculptures, numerous galleries, and artisan communities. Central Kootenay fosters diverse cultural expression, from traditional Indigenous art to contemporary works and community events.
Innovation Economy
Key economic sectors include critical minerals, clean tech, agriculture and viticulture, food processing, forestry, tourism and utilities. This area is home to several hydro electric dams generating significant renewable electricity for the province. Metal Tech Alley is at the forefront of the global shift toward sustainable resource management. They are one of Canada’s leading producers of critical metals—supplying essential materials for electric vehicles, solar energy, and medical technologies. Not to be outshined: the area’s music festivals boast gross revenues exceeding $5 million annually.
Regional Gateway
Situated on HWY 3 and HWY 6 the area has many options for air travel. YCG West Kootenay Regional Airport in Castlegar is the main commercial hub, connecting to Vancouver and serves as a gateway for charters and general aviation. Regional/Charter Services are offered in Creston, Nelson and Trail providing charter services to commercial and recreational businesses.
Areas & Communities in the Central Kootenay REgion
Creston by Jeff Banman / CrestonValleyPhotobank.ca.
Creston
Gateway to the Kootenays
Population: 5,583 | Growth: 4.1% (2016-2021)
Nestled between the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, Creston serves as the economic hub of the beautiful Creston Valley. Known for its fruit production and agricultural heritage, this community of 5,500 offers small-town charm with all essential amenities.
Nelson by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Nelson
The cultural heart of the West Kootenays
Population: 11,106 | Growth: 5.1% (2016-2021)
Nelson stands as the cultural and artistic soul of the Kootenay region, a vibrant city of over 11,000 residents that perfectly balances small-town charm with cosmopolitan amenities.
Kaslo
The "Little Switzerland of Canada"
Population: 1,049 | Growth: 8.4% (2016-2021)
Kaslo is a jewel of the West Kootenays, a charming village nestled on the pristine shores of Kootenay Lake. Known as the “Little Switzerland of Canada,” Kaslo combines turn-of-the-century heritage charm with a modern mountain lifestyle, creating an idyllic setting for families seeking a peaceful, connected community.
Kalso by Mitch Winton / KootenayRockies.com.
New Denver by Lauren Powers / Arrow Slocan Tourism
New Denver
Jewel of Slocan Lake
Population: 487 | Growth: 3.0% (2016-2021)
Set on pristine Slocan Lake in the Selkirk Mountains, New Denver combines mining heritage with mountain living. Home to the Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre, this intimate village offers spectacular wilderness access and rich cultural history.
Nakusp
Hot springs haven of the Arrow Lakes
Population: 1,590 | Stable growth rate
Nestled on Upper Arrow Lake between the Selkirk and Monashee ranges, Nakusp is renowned for its natural hot springs and stunning lakeside setting. This peaceful village offers excellent recreational facilities and strong community spirit.
Nakusp by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Castlegar by Mitch Winton / KootenayRockies.com.
Castlegar
Where two rivers meet
Population: 8,338 | Growth: 3.7% (2016-2021)
Positioned at the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers confluence, Castlegar serves as a regional transportation and education hub. Home to Selkirk College’s main campus and regional airport, it offers excellent connectivity and educational opportunities.
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