With Slocan Lake spreading northward from town edge, it feels like the start of adventure.
Once a boisterous boomtown packed with hotels, saloons and miners in pursuit of striking it rich, the Village of Slocan is now a peaceful town filled with gold-rush era architecture, fantastic recreation and breathtaking views. Take the Slocan History Walk to get acquainted with the town’s past.
Located 69 km from Nelson and 78 km from Nakusp, arriving in Slocan City from either direction brings you by stunning natural vistas found driving either Slocan River’s edge or along the shores of Slocan Lake.
Easy to navigate by foot or by bike, exploring the Village itself is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Locals will always recommend you begin at Flaca’s Bistro, a cafe and lunch spot offering hearty, locally inspired cuisine, coffee and baked goods.
Within a 10 minute walk of the Village center is the Tenacity Skatepark, a state of the art and community funded public skatepark. On your walk through the historic streets, heritage-fronted buildings and lovingly restored farmhouses whisper of days gone by.
Around these parts, all roads lead to the beach! A broad stretch of sand and protected swimming area borders the Village, with a pristine dock, boat launch and newly renovated waterside walkway. Ample parking is available, and summer days are filled with drop-in games of volleyball, open ended jam-sessions and a relaxed, unmistakably Kootenay vibe.
The ever popular Slocan bluffs are located on the edge of the Village. The numerous sport, trad and mixed climbing routes are accessed via a short walk from the Village up the old highway that runs a part of the east side of Slocan Lake.
This historical roadway was built in 1928 to create connection around Cape Horn between the lake’s northern and southern points, beginning the end of reliance in paddle wheeler transport.
It’s nearly impossible to take a photo in Slocan City that wouldn’t fit well on a postcard. The community is nestled against the Valhalla Mountain Range and its systems of trails, walk-in or boat access only camping, rock climbing and mountaineering opportunities.
Tucked into the entrance of Slocan City is Springer Creek Campground, a full service, creekside RV Park and Campground with hiking and cycling trails, easily accessible waterfalls just minutes from the center of the Village.
Looking for other accommodation? Slocan is home to a number of vacation rentals.
