Guide to Travel Silverton, British Columbia
About Silverton, Kootenays
Silverton, British Columbia is a small mountain town nestled in the beautiful Selkirk Mountains of Canada. This picturesque Kootenay community has a population of just over 200 and offers stunning views, fresh mountain air, and plenty of recreational activities.
Silverton's landscape is dotted with old-growth forests, crystal clear lakes, rushing streams, glaciers, meadows full of wildflowers, and abundant wildlife. Hiking trails provide access to these natural wonders like Valhalla Provincial Park while fishing spots like Slocan Lake abound throughout the area. Golfers can enjoy a round on nearby New Denver’s nine-hole course, the Slocan Lake Golf Club while cross-country skiing enthusiasts will find miles upon miles of groomed trails in the wintertime.
Residents and visitors alike can take advantage of Silverton's unique shopping experiences as well - one-of-a-kind crafts from local artisans are always available for purchase at nearby stores or farmer’s markets during warmer months. And don’t forget about all the delicious cuisine this breathtaking region offers! From cozy pubs serving up comforting classics to renowned fine dining establishments featuring creative local fare – there’s something for everyone here in Silverton British Columbia!
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History of Silverton
Silverton has a rich history that goes back centuries. The region's first inhabitants were the Ktunaxa people, who have lived in and around the area for thousands of years. They used the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering plants, providing sustenance to their communities.
In 1808 explorer David Thompson mapped out parts of what is now Silverton BC and soon after fur trading posts began popping up along rivers in the region. As settlers moved into the area during the mid-19th century they built cabins and homesteads and small mills to process lumber. It also has a long and rich history of mining that dates back to the late 19th century when gold was discovered in the nearby Similkameen River. This discovery sparked an influx of miners and their families, quickly transforming Silverton from a sparsely populated area into a bustling little city with shops, restaurants, and other businesses catering to the growing population. In addition to gold, silver was also found in abundance here which made it one of Canada's premier silver-producing locations for decades after that. Today, visitors can still explore abandoned mines as well as learn about this fascinating period through local museums and historic buildings such as miners' cabins and smelters.
How to Get to Silverton
Silverton British Columbia is accessible by car, and there are several routes to choose from depending on where you’re coming from. If you're driving from Nelson BC, for example, it's about a 2-hour drive along Highway 3A. From Vancouver, it takes around 6 hours to reach Silverton and the best route is via Hwy 1 as well as Hwy 3 in Hope and Princeton BC.
You can also fly into Kelowna International Airport (YLW) which is roughly a two-hour drive away or take the bus with Greyhound Canada. The closest major city that offers Amtrak service is Spokane WA, which would require an additional 4-5 hours of travel time by car.
What to do in Silverton
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Silverton British Columbia! Outdoor enthusiasts will have no shortage of things to do, from exploring the nearby trails on foot or bike, fishing at one of the many lakes, fly-fishing in rivers like the Kootenay River, skiing down Mount Mackenzie (or more beginner-friendly slopes for children), golfing a round at Slocan Valley’s 9 hole course - the possibilities are endless.
If you’re looking for something a bit different you can visit some of the local attractions such as historic sites like the ghost towns of Sandon and Cody where you’ll catch a glimpse into the Kootenay region’s past. You can also go wine tasting; shop for unique souvenirs at local stores or farmer’s markets during warmer months; take part in a community event such as an outdoor concert or festival; or sample delicious cuisine from restaurants featuring creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Hiking in Silverton
Silverton has a variety of hiking trails to explore, ranging from easy walks through the forest to more challenging mountain climbs. Some popular trails include the Slocan Valley Rail Trail which is perfect for families and can be accessed near Silverton’s old train station; Idaho Peak where you can experience stunning views at the summit; or Galena Trail with its lovely meadows, wildflowers, and beautiful riverside spots.
If you're looking for something a bit further away there are plenty of nearby parks such as Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Valhalla Provincial Park, and Mt. Denver all offering unique hikes sure to please any outdoor enthusiast!
Valhalla Provincial Park
Valhalla Provincial Park is a beautiful area of the Slocan Valley located in nearby Slocan City. Not only does this park offer stunning views and access to incredible alpine lakes, but it also has some excellent hiking trails to explore, as well as camping and fishing spots.
Valhalla offers over 20 kilometers of maintained trails ranging from easy walks through the valley to more challenging climbs up mountain peaks like Mount Gimli or Gladsheim Peak. With its lush rainforest, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, Valhalla is a must-visit when in the Slocan Valley.
Beaches in Silverton
Silverton is home to two stunning public beaches, Slip Day Park and Cooper’s Beach both of which offer excellent swimming opportunities and are perfect for watching sunsets. There are also several worthwhile beaches in the other towns such as Slocan Beach.
Accommodations in Silverton
Silverton has a limited amount of accommodations to choose from, whether you're looking for something luxurious or more budget-friendly. Popular lodging options include Silverton Gallery and Guest Suite on Airbnb offering a stay in an original pioneer-style building.
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