| The
Silvery Slocan mining boom of the late 1800s - dreamers and schemers
flocked to the area. Today, people come for the hot springs,
to explore the historic mining memorabilia and for the relaxed
ambience. This tour begins in Nelson with a very scenic ride along
Kootenay Lake.
Nelson's boom came when two prospectors accidentally
discovered a rich silver outcrop. Their 'find' attracted a number
of miners increasing its population, making Nelson the oldest city
on the west side of the Kootenay Rockies region. Nelson is home to
many fine heritage buildings, from elegant mansions to elaborate
commercial structures and offers even more than just great
heritage. The community's annual Art Walk (July & August)
showcases the local artisans' incredible work.
The village of
Kaslo is set at the highway junctions of #31/#31A. The
restored
SS Moyie, the world's oldest sternwheeler and proud symbol
of Kaslo's heritage, sits on the shores of Kootenay
Lake.
Kaslo's 19'th century buildings have also benefitted from this
community's commitment to its heritage and if you like music, come
for the
Jazz Festival - showcasing the world's best on a floating stage
each August holiday weekend.
Across the
magnificent Valhalla
mountain range and the New Denver glacier, the small towns of
New Denver and
Silverton are situated along the shoreline of
Slocan Lake. You'll discover
artisan shops and galleries along the way, and the
Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre, located in New Denver,
tells the tragic story of the internment of thousands of Canadians
of Japanese descent during the World War II. The
Silvery Slocan Museum displays a great selection
of memorabilia too.
Discover British Columbia's legendary ghost city -
Sandon, a short drive from New Denver, and experience
the silver rush of the 1800s. Historical treasures include the City
Hall and Interpretive Centre, Generating Station, Prospector's Pick
gift shop and much more. The Kaslo & Slocan Railway Historic
Trail starts at Sandon - a 5 km trail taking you by historic
mine shafts and artifacts of the past. On to Slocan, by travelling
south on Hwy #6. The spectacularly beautiful Slocan Valley
was once a magnet for thousands of hopeful prospectors and miners.
Today, the charming towns and villages, nestled in this valley,
enjoy a quiet serenity.
You'll want to
venture into this wilderness area and explore the friendly, small
communities for a while before you conclude the Silvery Slocan Tour
!
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