Travel and Cities

19 Exciting Things to do in Invermere

Invermere is a well-liked vacation spot close to the Kootenays and Purcell Mountain Range. There are a lot of exciting and fun things to do in Invermere, both in summer and winter, irrespective of any age group.

It will be difficult to be bored here with activities like skiing at Panorama Mountain Resort and tubing on Lake Windermere!

A little community in British Columbia called Invermere is located not far from the Alberta border. It is 14 kilometers from Radium Hot Springs and is located between Golden and Cranbrook to the north and south. 

Radium Hot Springs to Kimberley may be reached in less than 1.5 hours, but there are lots of exciting adventures to be experienced in between.

Location of Invermere

  • Invermere is a charming mountain village in British Columbia’s East Kootenay region. It is situated close to the Purcell Mountains as well as the Canadian Rockies on the eastern edge of Windermere Lake.
  • Visitors from Calgary and even further away frequent this town throughout the year. Due to its proximity to Kootenay National Park, it is quite crowded in the summer.
  • From Calgary, it takes about 4 hours to get to Invermere, while from Vancouver, it takes about 6.5 hours and the closest large airport is Calgary International Airport; which is approximately a 4-hour drive from Invermere.
  • Cranbrook is home to Canadian Rockies International Airport, a minor airport. Invermere is about a two-hour drive away. Bus services are additionally available.

Things to do in Invermere

Beautiful mountain top views, huge valleys, thrilling mountain biking trails, hot lakes & sandy beaches, a few of the best hot springs in British Columbia, quaint Austrian-themed alpine communities, and all kinds of other natural wonders can be found in the east Kootenays.

There are many things to do in Invermere like visiting the Fairmont hot springs resort, Banff national park, Lake provincial park, Cross river valleys, Invermere soaring center, Nipika mountain resort, etc.

The best things to do in Invermere & around Invermere are listed here to help you plan your trip to the east Kootenays.

1. Visit Lake Windermere Whiteway

Enjoying Lake Windermere is among Invermere’s greatest activities and one of the most exciting things to do in Invermere. The world’s longest naturally frozen skating path is the 21-mile-long Lake Windermere Whiteway. The water solidifies during the chilly winter months, creating wonderful skating chances.

The trail connects Invermere with Windermere and circles the lake as it rests in the shadow of the Purcell Mountains. If you don’t want to spend as much time skating, there is one big loop and several smaller ones.

Ice hockey, Nordic walking, and cross-country skiing are all permitted in certain regions.

2. Things to do in Invermere- Visit Taynton Bay Spirits to Try Flavored Vodka

The only distillery in Invermere is Taynton Bay Spirits. Although their goods are offered for sale in Canada, Why not visit the manufacturing facility and sample the delectable beverages there?

By Taynton Bay Spirits

Within kilometers of the distillery, wheat is produced for the production of alcoholic beverages. There is great attention used in crafting wonderfully drinkable spirits; you’ll want more! See what goes into making excellent drinks and discover more about the distilling process before sipping locally brewed beverages.

The distillery’s vast selection of flavored vodkas, which come in tasty flavors including raspberry, orange turmeric, & ginger matcha tea, is what it is best known for. One of the more interesting beverages made here is perhaps the pickled vodka.

3. Visit Windermere Valley Museum and Archives

A wonderful location to learn about the historical characteristics of Invermere and the neighboring districts, a variety of fascinating old structures can be seen at the Windermere Valley Museum & Archives and falls under the top list of things to do in Invermere. When you wander the site, you’ll undoubtedly have a sense of time travel.

The main structure is a historic railroad station that has previously suffered damage from a runaway train. The Legion Building, which is currently a part of the museum, was initially built as a memorial for World War One veterans.

The collections in each building include a wide range of fascinating topics, including mining, farming, transportation, construction, trade, & numerous crafts. There are also a lot of records, maps, and photographs in the museum.

4. Things to do in Invermere- Enjoy Kicking Horse Coffee

All across Canada, supermarket stores carry Kicking Horse Coffee. Nonetheless, Invermere is home to the company’s flagship café and coffee shop.

Checking it out is among the top things to do in Invermere and if you need to, you can work a little bit while enjoying a cappuccino at their lovely café.

5. Board and Ski at Panorama

Panorama Mountain Resort, a magnificent Canadian ski resort, soars up to 4,000 feet and has one of the largest vertical drops in all of North America.

By Panorama Resort

All skill levels of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to experts, can find runs that fit them, and is certainly one of the most adventurous things to do in Invermere.

Advanced skiers can take advantage of the soft powder that was previously exclusively available to heli skiers, while instruction is available. One of the most picturesque skiing regions in the world, the resort includes four chairlifts.

Fans of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing won’t be dissatisfied either. There are various trails in the area, including Lake Lillian and the Panoramic Nordic Path. Throughout the valley, there are other additional winter sports accessible.

6. Things to do in Invermere- Cycling Downhill at Panorama

While Panorama is a popular wintertime destination for skiers and snowboarders, its summertime draw is the Panorama Bike Park. There are flow tracks, green beginner trails, and lots of expert and intermediate trails in this bike park for more seasoned riders. Natural and artificial characteristics abound throughout the landscape.

Together with biking, there is mountain yoga, the EuroBungy, tennis, a swimming pool, waterslides, and a climbing wall.

7. Visit James Chabot Provincial Park

James Chabot Provincial Park is a great place to go on a hot summer day because it is situated directly by Lake Windermere and visiting this park is one of the exciting things to do in Invermere. A nice sandy beach and a grassy area where you may relax, play, & paddle in the sea are nearby.

Go in the water to go kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or windsurfing, or just go swimming to cool off. A play area is a safe place for children to run around, and volleyball is a great activity for individuals of all ages to use up surplus energy.

8. Pynelogs Cultural Centre & Art Gallery

The Pynelogs Culture Centre and Art Gallery, the main cultural hub in the Lake Windermere region, is built in a magnificent old log structure. A Scottish developer built the log mansion in 1914 as a present for his wife.

Tragically, the widow passed away soon after getting to the property; her grave is marked by a monument. A history garden with flowers & vegetables from the era is also present on the lovely grounds.

Together with native flora in gorgeous landscaped areas, Dorothy Lake’s high-shooting fountain is a beautiful addition.

Inside the center, you’ll find a wide assortment of art covering diverse subjects and themes. The art around here is extremely varied, ranging from paintings & prints to sculptures & ceramics.

Also, a variety of activities such as comedic performances, musical performances, plays, and dramas are held here.

9. Things to do in Invermere- Attempt a Round of Golf

Many world-class golf courses can be found in Invermere, each luring aficionados who wish to spend days outside perfecting their swing. Invermere residents surely like playing golf during the summer.

When it comes to breathtaking views, the 18-hole game at Eagle Ranch Resort wins. Right amid The Rockies’ sunbelt, expansive fairways, and little canyons come together to create the Rockies.

The Ridge at Copper Point, an 18-hole course with a par of 62, is a fantastic choice for a quick game if time is of the essence. These are family-owned golf courses with nine holes each and RV parking.

One of Canada’s top five golf courses is Greywolf Golf Course. Each of its 18 courses is beautiful and difficult, surrounded by towering mountains.

Additional intriguing choices are The Spring Course, Mountainside, Edgewater Hill, and Creekside. Families will love Panorama Resort’s Howling Wolf Mini Golf.

10. Visit Lake Windermere by Boat

Lake Windermere, which is well-liked in the summer, is a great location for boat exploration. If you own your boat, there are many ramps & boat launches in the neighborhood.

Nonetheless, a lot of guests choose to rent a boat from Pete’s Marina for an enjoyable day on the water and one of the amazing things to do in Invermere.

Go out on your private lake cruise with a picnic to make the most of your time. Before continuing on your excursion, pause to dive into the azure seas. It’s unquestionably a fantastic way to admire the views from a unique vantage point.

11. Things to do in Invermere- Visit Arrowhead Brewing Company

Beer lovers should visit Arrowhead Brewing Company, which has been open since 2012. The brewery produces high-quality craft beers that vary from classic to experimental, and it always offers six regular brews in addition to numerous seasonal varieties.

For a glass of your preferred beer, take a seat in the inviting taproom or relax on the sizable terrace. Why stop with one, then? To fully enjoy the variety of great beers produced on-site, get a tasting flight.

Local brews include the crisp Likeabull Lager, the dry Irish stout Black Jack, and the pale ale with German influences dubbed Blonde Bombshell.

12. Enjoy the Sun at Kinsmen Park

Kinsmen Park is a popular park and lakeside beach close to downtown that is well-liked by both locals and tourists. A historic CPR Lodge, which previously housed workers but has since been renovated and moved, may be found in the park.

The lovely Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens, commonly known as the Community Garden, are located inside the park.

The park offers magnificent vistas of the Purcell Mountains and the Rockies, and there are many tall trees for shade. Throughout the summer, concession stands offer drinks and snacks.

Moreover, there are beach volleyball courts, picnic tables, restrooms, and a children’s play area; certainly one of the fun things to do in Invermere on your visit.

13. Things to do in Invermere- Have a Hot Cup of Coffee to Warm Up

Invermere is home to several cafés and coffee shops, but Stolen Church Coffee is a good pick for a superb cup of coffee, and visiting this coffee joint is one of the must things to do in Invermere.

The family-run micro-roastery takes pride in its high standards of quality and freshness for consistently delicious sips. Together with delicious blends, roasts include Sumatran, Costa Rican, Columbian, and Peruvian varieties. They also offer delectable gelato.

One of the top coffee shops in the neighborhood and another excellent choice is Kicking Horse Coffee. The well-known chain has its flagship location in Invermere and has been brewing coffee for around 25 years. The organic, Fairtrade Arabica beans almost taste like the charm of The Rockies.

14. Wintertime at Marble Canyon

Join a guided trip to see some of the earliest fossils in the world, or follow hiking paths to become immersed in the varied landscape and spot wildlife. More than 500 million years have passed since the Burgess Shale fossils were recognized by UNESCO.

Aside from hiking and biking, there are also activities like skiing, fishing, and climbing to enjoy inside the national park.

15. Things to do in Invermere- Take a Look at Kootenay National Park

From Invermere’s center, it takes only a short drive to reach Kootenay National Park. Compared to Banff, the stunning national park has fewer people, so you can frequently take in the breathtaking scenery in (relative) solitude and quiet.

You can go through beautiful roads while taking in the scenery, pausing to view waterfalls & canyons that are accessible from the side of the road.

A remarkable location is Marble Canyon. Floe Lake is a must-see if you’re up for a long day or are looking for a great spot for backcountry camping; undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Invermere.

16. Experience the Panorama Resort’s Chairlift

Seeing the panorama from the top of the Panorama chairlift is another of the finest things to do in Invermere. Enjoy a wonderful sightseeing trip on the chairlift at Panorama Resort and take in the breathtaking views from above.

A wonderfully breathtaking experience awaits you at 5,300 feet, where the chairlift will transport you. Remember to bring your camera! Many mountain hiking trails can be explored while making use of the occasion.

17. Things to do in Invermere- Visit the Annual Music Festival

In August, Invermere Music Fest is hosted. The festival runs for the entire weekend and features both domestic and foreign artists. The vibrant event was held beside the lake.

18. Take a Hike

Around Invermere, there are some great hiking and walking routes, and taking a hike here is one of the very touristy things to do in Invermere. One of the most well-liked paths in the region, “The Johnson,” circles Lillian Lake and attracts both mountain bikers and hikers.

The location looks out over Toby Creek Canyon and is well-mapped. You can encounter vertical hoodoos that plunge straight into the brook while hiking. It’s worth seeing!

19. Things to do in Invermere- Visiting Radium Hot Springs

Radium Hot Springs is a little village located within 15 minutes from Invermere. Radium Hot Springs, often known as “Radium,” is a well-liked destination in both the winter and the summer. mostly for the Radium Hot Springs, which are considered the best in British Columbia.

Here, you may unwind in the hot springs while seeing the Kootenay Mountains. They are a natural mineral-rich spring and some of the biggest & most well hot springs in the entire country of Canada.

The crystal-clear waters are always between 37 & 40 degrees Celsius and are rich in sulfate, calcium, magnesium, silica, as well as other minerals. The waters of Radium Hot Springs have no odor, so there’s no need to be concerned about the strong eggy scent that is typical of hot springs.

Final Note

Most people remember Invermere for its use as a launching point to explore Windermere Lake. Both ice skating and boating are popular activities there in both the summer and the winter.

Visitors from Calgary & Edmonton keep Invermere busy, especially in the winter months. It’s worth visiting this province since it’s a hidden gem town with all the Canadian Rockies’ splendor without the crowds and offers the best of interesting things to do in Invermere.

If you’re searching for family entertainment, outdoor adventure, or just some downtime, spending a few days exploring the area around Invermere—the center of the region—is the ideal retreat.

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