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Nelson is a small city in the Kootenays with a ton of small-town charm, and it has transformed into the ultimate winter wonderland in British Columbia. In fact, it’s considered North America’s best ski town, so there’s never been a better time to visit than now!
Situated in the Selkirk Mountains, the stunning winter destination has plenty to offer year-round, from summer markets to backcountry heli-skiing adventures. Its deep, powdery snow attracts pro skiers and snowboarders from across the globe, and there are plenty of places to enjoy it.
This includes Selkirk Snowcat Skiing, Baldface Lodge and Valhalla, Retallack, White Grizzly, and the award-winning Whitewater Ski Resort.
The latter is perfect for snow sport enthusiasts of all ability levels – including families.
Nelson also happens to be the birthplace of Cat Skiing, which was made possible by ski hill grooming techniques created in 1975 by Selkirk Wilderness (now Selkirk Snowcat Skiing).
Ready to fuel up or enjoy some aprè-ski options? The region is home to over 80 restaurants and craft breweries to check out.
Looking for some small-town festivities to ring in the near year? Nelson and its surrounding communities have a handful of celebrations going on during New Year’s Eve.
For one, there’s a New Year’s Eve Party at Finley’s Bar and Grill with the Rob Johnson Band and a live DJ to keep the party going all night.
There will also be a concert at The Royal Community by Vancouver-based rock group, Brass Camel, whose sound blends together the genres of prog, funk and rock music.
Finally, visitors can check out live performances by Murge and Vancouver-based DJ Tor at Bloom Nightclub that will feature “serious dancefloor vibes,” according to Nelson and Kootenay Lake Tourism.
So there you have it, snowbirds! It’s a great time to make the trip out to the Kootenays and enjoy all the season has to offer.
How to get there: Drive seven hours and 35 minutes from Vancouver to Nelson via Crowsnest Highway/BC-3 E.
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