Day Trip - Creston

Creston is an hour and a half drive east of Nelson on Highway 3A. This is a beautiful drive along the shores of Kootenay Lake including a 45 minute ferry ride that brings you to the fertile valley of Creston.

Alternately you can head south from Nelson on Highways 6 then 3 driving over the Kootenay Pass, at the top stop for a picnic and a panoramic view of the Selkirk Mountains. Look for the often present big horn sheep and mountain goats that jump and play along the steep mountainsides.

Once in Creston taste the bounty of the land at one of the grower owned produce stands. Creston is becoming a centre for organic produce and sustainable agriculture with local interest groups working with the government to create an economically diverse and healthy future.

As you drive through downtown Creston view the murals created by local artists documenting the life and history of the area on downtown buildings. For hiking, biking and wildlife viewing go to the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area an internationally significant wetland area that is home to 265 species of birds and ducks.

Kianuko Provincial Park is a 30 minute drive from Creston and offers more difficult hiking opportunities. Kianuko Park is vital habitat for grizzlies, caribou and moose as well as remaining sacred land to the Ktunaxa - Kinbasket people. Visitors are welcome to visit this undeveloped wilderness area for hiking, horseback riding, and walk in camping.

With its lush agricultural land and beautiful surrounding wild lands Creston is a day trip that promises to please.