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Waterfront view of Galena Bay in Arrow Lakes
Waterfront view from the otters at Galena Shores in Arrow Lakes

Waterfront view from a hummingbird at Galena Bay in Arrow Lakes

Community

The Galena Shores development is made up of boomers, soon to be retirees, and some young families.  On the waterfront, Galena Bay is often referred to as Alberta Beach.  These people found Galena Bay a long time ago and are fiercely protective of what they have there.  Treat them with respect and you will find that the natives are friendly!

Nakusp

Nakusp (population 1,800) is the closest community (35 minutes by car) with services for Galena Shores.  It has an IGA, gas station, several restaurants, shopping and all of the services that are required for permanent residents and tourists.   It is a lovely picturesque place to visit. 

Nakusp was first established during the mining boom in the Slocan Valley at the turn of the twentieth century.  Rich timberland in the Nakusp area gave growth to a local sawmill and logging industry.  Several paddle steamers came into service on the lakes, transporting settlers, produce, vacationers, and just about everything else. The boats were retired from active service in the early 1950s. Nakusp is a rare Kootenay Gem, where big water, big mountains and big smiles are awaiting for anyone who takes the time to explore this vibrant community.

Trout Lake

Close to Galena Bay (30 minutes) is the community of Trout Lake.  This is the home of the mighty Gerrard Rainbow Trout.  These can grow to over 40 lbs!  While you can catch them in Arrow Lakes, they have a large spawning population in Trout Lake. 

Trout Lake has about 30 permanent residents.  In the summer the population swells to over 200.  In the winter, snowmobilers come from all over the world to enjoy Trout Lake and environs snow.  Trout Lake gets 12' (3.5m) or more of snow and it is a common site to see people shovelling their roof so their chimney's can breath!

The historic Windsor Hotel in Trout Lake British Columbia is open all four seasons.  Established in 1892 at Trout Lake City, the last survivor of a thriving transportation centre for the Lardeau mining area.  Located in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains and next to the pristine Trout Lake, the Windsor Hotel is the perfect accommodation for snowmobiling, ski touring, hiking, fishing, and relaxing.

Halcyon Hot Springs

About 15 minutes from Galena Bay is the world renowned Halcyon Hot Springs.  In the late 1800s miners used to come to these waters crippled, in pain and barely able to walk.  After bathing in the lithium waters they were known to walk away, pain free.  Halcyon has hot pools, over night accommodation, camping, and an excellent restaurant.  There are also "wild" hot springs in this general area for the adventurous!