North America’s best ski town is in B.C. and a famous Steve Martin comedy filmed there

Every year, Nelson’s deep, powdery snow attracts visitors from across the globe, including winter sports enthusiasts and pro skiers alike. It’s known as North America’s best ski town, a title that Nelson has earned on multiple occasions for its stellar winter adventures.

World-class skiing

For one, the quaint mountain town is the birthplace of Cat Skiing, which was made possible by ski hill grooming techniques created in 1975 by Selkirk Wilderness (now Selkirk Snowcat Skiing). Those visiting Nelson can access breathtaking backcountry scenery and fresh powder via operators like Selkirk Snowcat Skiing, Baldface Lodge and Valhalla, Retallack, and White Grizzly.

The award-winning Whitewater Ski Resort also offers visitors world-class skiing and snowboarding, no matter what your skill level is.

Located along the famed Powder Highway, the resort boasts 614 metres of dramatic steeps, bowls, and some of the best glade skiing on the planet. Four ski lifts operate here, and there are plenty of family-friendly slopes to check out as well.

Nordic skiers and snowshoers have 6.1 km of stunning trails to explore that wind through the forest.

Nelson’s vibrant arts scene and award-winning farmers’ market also deserve mention, as there is plenty to do, no matter which winter activity is your favourite.

Nelson on the silver screen

Nelson and Rossland are often remembered as the setting of the 1987 Steve Martin comedy Roxanne, and visitors can explore all of its filming locations using this map of downtown Nelson.

Starring Steve Martin and Daryl Hannah, the film is a reimagined adaptation of the play Cyrano de Bergerac. Filming took place across Nelson, from its charming heritage homes and firehall to its quirky, historic streets, to the towering Selkirk Mountains.

With over 350 heritage buildings and sites, it’s no wonder downtown was chosen as the primary filming location. Whether or not you’re on the Roxanne tour, though, it’s worth a stroll downtown to explore all of Nelson’s restored local shops and boutiques. There’s even a restored lakeside streetcar to check out!

The Nelson Museum, Archives, & Gallery also allows visitors to engage with rotating interactive exhibits paying tribute to Nelson’s rich history.

It’s not surprising that another accolade Nelson has garnered is B.C.’s heritage capital.

Which part of the small town are you most excited to explore?

Nelson, B.C.

How to get there: Drive seven and a half hours from Vancouver via the Crowsnest Highway/BC-3 E, or nine and a half hours via the Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 E.

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