Rossland, BC, the Alpine City for All Seasons
Whether there's snow on the ground, or it's a hot summer day, there is always something to do in the alpine city of Rossland, BC. You can have as much fun outdoors or indoors. The strategic location of Rossland puts it close to the US border and to the popular West Kootenay cities of Trail, Castlegar, and Nelson.
Did you know that Red Mountain is the oldest ski hill in Western Canada? Downhill skiing started there in 1897. Presently, Red Mountain Resort has been developping the ski hill with new chair lift, and more runs. Condos have been going up at the base of the hill, which is already close to the city of Rossland.
If you have a chance, try to attend Rossland's Winter Carnival, held every year in January (check for dates). The carnival includes fireworks, a parade, races, teen dance, kids scavenger hunt, and wine tasting for the adults!
Winter activities you can do in and around Rossland include downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, skating, curling, snowmobiling, and ice-fishing.
For summer activities, there are numerous mountain biking trails, hiking trails, and nearby lakes for fishing. Rossland has a pool for the kids, and for golfing fanatics there is the Rossland Trail Country Club, or the Redstone Golf Resort.
For day trips you can easily visit many West Kootenay cities and towns from Rossland, some of which are Grand Forks, Christina Lake, Trail, Castlegar, Salmo, Nelson, Slocan, Ainsworth Hot Springs, and Kaslo. The US border is only a few minutes from Rossland, and a visit to Spokane can be done within a day.
Do you enjoy Jazz music? Check out the renovated Old Fire Hall restaurant and listen to live jazz while tasting some of the 40 wines on the menu. Located at 2115 Queen St. You can also try Le Petit Fromage if you seek a unique dinning experience. Le Petit Fromage offers a pre-set three course authentic French cheese fondue dinner by candle light, in a remote cabin in the woods. Or, if you're looking for great coffee, try one of the many cafes in town, such as the Rossland Coffee and Tea Company, the Sunshine Cafe, or the Grind.
Where to stay? Rossland has a range of accommodations from hostels and camping to luxurious condos. There are guesthouses, which are self contained, self catering houses, as well as hotels, motels and B&B's. Popular hotels are the Flying Steamshovel, Prestige Mountain Resort, the Ram's Head Inn, and the Red Shutter Inn. For motels, there are the Rossland Motel, and Casa Alpina.
