Tee Off Around Kootenay Lake
Cover photo by Kari Medig Courtesy of Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism
Looking to take your golf game to new heights this summer? Nestled between the water and the edge of the mountains, you’ll find five courses in the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region that make this the ultimate golfer’s getaway.
If you’ve yet to visit our unique corner of British Columbia, you’re in for a treat. And if you’ve already visited, consider this our invitation to return and make new memories on the greens and off. After all, there’s more to a golf trip than just golfing (right?). You won’t find any tariffs to cross the border either, as our door is always open to our American neighbo(u)rs (it’s true, we still love “u”!).
As the closest major city on either side of the border to Nelson, Spokane is an easy three-hour drive from the Kootenay Lake region. The mountains get bigger and closer as you head north, while even the speed limits seem greater (almost—it’s that sneaky miles-to-kilometers conversion).
And although we can’t guarantee our holes are any longer than your local course, we can confidently say you’ll want to take an extra moment to pause and soak in the views. All five courses offer stunning views of Kootenay Lake and the surrounding mountains, including Granite Pointe Golf Club in Nelson. If there’s such a thing as a “mountain course,” surely this is it. Built on the edge of the hillside, holes climb and descend, following the hilly grade, while granite outcroppings dot the course, adding rugged appeal and the occasional hazard. The elevated vista is ideal for looking down the lake and the snow-capped summit of Grays Peak in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park.
Anchored by historic Baker Street, Nelson’s charming downtown offers plenty to see and do when you’re off the links. Independent shops and galleries are packed tightly along the main street, offering the best in brands, selection, and a friendly shopping experience. Many stores are located in colourful heritage buildings, while public art installations big and small add to the cosmopolitan cultural scene.
Take your pick from three breweries or over a dozen cafes and bakeries with freshly baked goods and locally roasted beans. You’ll also find a surprisingly diverse selection of cuisines represented along with traditional North American fare. Whether it’s a steakhouse or a cozy sushi spot, Nelson’s food scene punches well above its weight. Good thing for that strong US dollar.
Nelson offers a wide range of accommodations to put your feet up post-game (this is a vacation, right?). Book a waterfront room at the Prestige Lakeside Resort for the ultimate private patio experience. If a boutique heritage hotel is more your thing, stay at the historic Hume Hotel with multiple restaurants, including an outdoor summer beer garden on site. The Adventure Hotel is a downtown favourite for groups, while the Baker Street Inn, Savoy Hotel, Alpine Inn & Suites, Prestige Inn and Cloudside Hotel complement dozens of quality vacation homes in the area.
Fancy a trip back in time? Hop aboard streetcar #23 along the shores of Kootenay Lake, a truly unique experience. The golf might draw you here, but the attractions and amenities will make you want to stay.
A short 30-minute drive east is the highly rated Balfour Golf & Recreation course. This quiet gem serves up stunning views, well-maintained holes and quality food. The first half of the course takes advantage of the surprisingly level terrain. If that feels like a walk in the park, save your energy for the back half of the course, which rises and falls while incorporating twisting creeks and towering cedars. Saving the best for last, the course offers one of the best finishing stretches you’ll ever play.
Half an hour north is Kaslo, one of the prettiest towns in Canada, and home to an inviting 9-hole course. Try not to get distracted by the towering Purcell Mountains or lofty lake views; you’ll need your attention for this short but challenging course.
Relax on the patio or indoors in the impressive timber frame clubhouse, but save some time for exploring Kaslo’s other attractions, including the SS Moyie sternwheeler, beautiful nature paths and its bucolic downtown. And don’t miss a dip at Ainsworth Hot Springs. Halfway between Kaslo and Balfour, it’s the perfect way to soothe your body before another round.
Returning to Balfour, you’ll cross Kootenay Lake on a scenic free ferry to reach the East Shore, home to two nearby golf courses. The Riondel Golf Club is a 9-hole executive par 30. Run by a non-profit, and with rates starting at $20 (Canadian!), it earns its feel-good reputation.
Just down the road is Kokanee Springs Resort in the artisan community of Crawford Bay. The gorgeous course should be a bucket list trip for any golfer, and with accommodations and eateries on site, it’s worth staying a while. Whether it’s a short and sweet round or a “must do” 18-hole course, the East Shore will have you coming back for more.
Even if your drive isn’t up to par, the route to get here certainly is. These five fantastic golf courses and friendly communities along Kootenay Lake are conveniently accessible from Spokane, offering the opportunity for a scenic loop drive. Whether you’re a first timer or a long timer, we’re excited to welcome you to our special corner of B.C.
(Sponsored)
