Kianuko Provincial Park encompasses 11,638 hectares and is located in the southern Purcell Mountains, east of Kootenay Lake and north of Creston. This park encompasses the headwaters of Kianuko Creek, which is a tributary of the Goat River, as well as a number of small alpine lakes and meadows. The watershed is largely undisturbed and contains moist cedar-hemlock and Engelmann Spruce Subalpine fir old-growth forest communities. The park protects important habitat for caribou, moose and grizzly bear, and fish. This is an area of Ktunaxa-kinbasket First Nation traditional use and has high spiritual values. The park is also home to a number of backcountry hiking trails that may be of interest to hikers with experience and high clearance vehicles. The most popular of these is Haystack Mountain Trail, a moderate day hike to iconic mountain on the Western edge of the park. Another hike is the much longer Kianuko Creek trail that traverses the park south to north, ideal for a multi-day back-packing or horse-riding trip. In fall the park is also open to hunting with appropriate licenses. *** Note that there are no services in this backcountry provincial park, so please come prepared and pack out whatever you pack in.

Located at the summit of Kootenay pass and one the highest year-round highway passes in BC, Stagleap Provnicial Park provides immediate access to the surrounding Selkirk Mountains . Enjoy the subalpine forest from the luxury of your car or go for a short walk around Bridal Lake. Hiking in the high alpine areas via Ripple Ridge Trail and Cornice Ridge Trail is also popular in the summer months. Stagleap Provincial Park is also one of the most accessible backcountry skiing destinations in the region and has consistently excellent snow conditions that have made it a major backcountry ski and snowshoe destination. The terrain can be very hazardous in winter (extreme avalanche dangers) and off-trail use is discouraged. Only those with proper equipment and training should venture into backcountry areas. The park has a key role in protecting habitat for internationally endangered mountain caribou. A remnant herd of approximately 40 individuals migrate back and forth across the international border and is heavily dependent on the park to facilitate this movement. In addition, the park provides important habitat for the vulnerable Southern Selkirk population of grizzly bear. *** Due to the ecologically sensitivity of the Mountain Caribou habitat, dogs are prohibited in the park through the winter. During the summer visitors should also consider keeping pets on a leash. Season: Year-round, hiking, back-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing

Welcome to the Legend Logos Gift Shop and adjoining Yaqan Nukiy Heritage Centre in Creston, where you'll discover a captivating array of unique indigenous made gifts and the opportunity to learn about the rich culture and traditions of the Ktunaxa people, who have called this land home for over 10,000 years. From exquisite buckskin products to mesmerizing crystal dream catchers and original embroidered art, the shop is a treasure trove of cultural wonders, which also provides an opportunity to witness local Yaqan Nukiy Ktunaxa artisans at work, crafting some of the unique items right on-site. Don't miss the chance to embark on the remarkable Legend Lake Tour, a 2.5 hour guided boat tour available every July and August. Cruise along the serene south end of Kootenay Lake, while Ktunaxa guides share enthralling traditional stories and the lake's fascinating history. Experience the beauty of ancient pictograph sites that dot the lake's west side. Book your seat now to be part of this unforgettable journey. Whether you're seeking unique gifts or an immersive cultural experience, Legend Logos Gift Shop and Heritage Centre await your visit. Come, explore, and be enchanted by the legacy of the Ktunaxa people. 3560 Highway 21 South, Creston 250-428-2977 www.legendlogos.ca

The incredibly peaceful and scenic Kootenay Lake is a long, narrow and deep fjord-like lake located between the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges and is one of the largest in British Columbia, at 104 km in length. Historically, the lake was home to the Ktunaxa First Nations, who traversed along its waters in their iconic sturgeon-nosed canoes, fishing giant Sturgeon or Kokanee Salmon. With the start of the silver mining boom at the end of the 19th century, the lake suddenly bustled with life as stern wheel ferries transporting swarms of would-be-miners who had come to strike it rich. While the boom days are now a distant memory, communities that popped up at this time at Kuskanook, Boswell, Gray Creek, Crawford Bay, and Riondel are now home to a number of artisans, crafts people, and musicans who love the peace and serenity. Today visitors to the lake can enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, and swimming from it's many bays, beaches and boat launches, which are all a short drive from the Creston Area. For swimming Twin Bay Beach, Mackie Beach & Lockhart Beach are excellent places for a cool dip. Kuskanook Harbour and Boswell Public Boat Launch are the best options for those wishing to boat. Another great option is to join one of the Legend Lake Tours, a guided historical boating tour of the lake with staff from the Ktunaxa-owned Legend Logos Gift Shop. Alternatively, the mountains and forests around the lake provide numerous parks and trails to explore for hikers and mountain bikers. With it's many twists and turns, Highway 3A from Creston to Kootenay Bay is also a popular route with Motorcyclists and rated as one of the best rides in Canada! After taking time to explore the area, most visitors then head to Kootenay bay to hop aboard the Kootenay Lake ferry to Balfour, enjoying the longest free inland ferry ride in North America.

Located in Erickson, Lloyd's Backyard is a charming little farm full of countryside vibes and surrounded by stunning scenery. Lloyd's sells an array of goodies, including bedding plants, fresh seasonal veggies and fruits as well as Lloyd's custom-built greenhouses and colourful handmade garden accessories! During the summer, you can even enjoy the sweet adventure of U-Pick Raspberries, Blackberries, and Blueberries. Just note that the farm have limited hours, so give them a ring beforehand to make sure the farm is open! 804 11th Ave S, Erickson 250) 402-8016 Lloyd's Backyard FB Page

Boutique Kitchenware located in downtown Creston specializing in unique cookware, bakeware, tableware, spices, teas, coffee and home decor with a sister store in Kimberley, BC. The perfect gift shopping experience for any travelling foodie. 1128 Canyon St, Creston (778) 763-4239 www.gratergood.ca

Located in Lister, Eversfield Ceramics is a large Ceramics /Pottery Workshop and Gallery featuring work by professional potter and sculptor David Barnes. David has been creating with clay for the past 45 years and now offers his work for viewing and sale in Lister, including functional ware, contemporary pieces and sculptural work. Eversfield Ceramics also offers weekly classes, workshops and summer classes for youth and children. To book a visit to the gallery or to register for classes visit their website, social media or give them a call. 1522 Airport Road, Lister 403-968-1657 eversfieldceramics.com

Mackie Beach is a small south-facing community park and beach with course sand and lots of sunshine in the village of Boswell on Kootenay Lake. The beach is just north of the Boswell Boat Launch off of Highway 3A on Lewis Bay Road. After the entrance you will find a small parking parking area, bathrooms and garbage bins. A hundred metres past it is the beach itself, which has a picnic tables. The water is relatively shallow making this a good spot for a picnic and a swim. *** Note that Mackie beach is also surrounded by private homes. Visitors are requested to be respectful and clean up after yourself . As the beach is generously maintained by the Boswell Farmers' Institute, a donation is highly encouraged to help with upkeep of the site, which can be done via the donation box at the park entrance. 12503 Lewis Bay Road, Boswell

Located in downtown Creston, The Bay Leaf offers it's patrons a unique twist on traditional Indian cuisine complemented by a selection of familiar Canadian dishes. Head Chef Dilip Chand believes that the best food is created by keeping it simple to highlight the basic exotic flavours. The restaurant’s Bay Leaf Special Curry is one of the eatery’s most delightful dishes along with other staples like butter chicken, naan and more. The large menu also features a variety of appetizers, side dishes and other entrees, including many vegetarian and vegan options. Open for lunch and dinner with both dine-in, takeout, and delivery available. Also available for Group Bookings and Catered Events. 1403 Canyon St, Creston (250) 428-7713 www.creston.bayleafindianfusion.com

The Creston Valley motel is centrally located just east of the downtown core across from the Dairy Queen and only 2 blocks from the heart of downtown, within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, the Rec Center, and all other amenities. The motel provides quality accommodations at affordable prices, offering a variety of rooms with one, two, and even three beds. Each room comes with high-speed Wi-Fi, cable television, telephones, air conditioning, microwaves, fridges, and courtesy coffee & tea. The Creston Valley motel also has two Full Kitchen suites, several mini kitchen units and a pet friendly unit. The motel also offers the business traveler access to Fax, Print, and Photocopy services. Amenities include an outdoor patio area and excellent parking for large vehicles. Motorcyclists welcome! Creston Valley Motel 1809 Canyon St, Creston BC 250-428-9823

Get ready for an exciting weekend of curling and camaraderie at the Creston Men's Butterfly Bonspiel! Held the first week of March this highly anticipated annual event has been a tradition in Creston since 1946, drawing in over 20 teams from across the Kootenay region of BC, Alberta, and the Northwest US to compete for the top prize. Held at the state-of-the-art Creston District Community Complex, the Men's Butterfly Bonspiel promises to be a weekend full of thrilling matches, memorable moments, and good old-fashioned fun. But it's not just about the competition; this bonspiel is renowned for its lively social events that bring curlers and spectators together for a fantastic time. Whether you're a seasoned curler or just a fan of the sport, the Men's Butterfly Bonspiel is an event you won't want to miss. Register early at crestoncurling.com to secure your spot in the tournament and join us for a weekend of exciting curling action and unforgettable memories crestoncurling.com

Come and join the festivities in the beautiful Creston Valley, as we celebrate Canada Day on July 1st! This is a day to mark the birth of this great northern nation we call home, and the communities of Yahk, Canyon, and Creston, BC have come together to create a truly spectacular celebration. The festivities kick off early in the day, with a delicious pancake breakfast and farmers' market, followed by live entertainment that will keep you tapping your feet and grooving to the beat. You won't want to miss the grand finale - a breathtaking fireworks display that will light up the sky and leave you in awe! Join us at the Creston & District Community Complex, Canyon Park, and the Yahk-Kingsgate Community Hall, as we celebrate Canada Day with enthusiasm and joy. Whether you are a local or a visitor to the area, this is a celebration that you won't want to miss! So, grab your family and friends, put on your red and white, and come join us for an unforgettable day of Canadian pride and fun. Happy Canada Day, eh! Check out our event calendar closer to the date for more details!