Balfour uniquely combines world-class golfing, fishing, and boating with casual, Kootenay style. Have a burger and
beer while you watch the ferry come in, or treat yourself to big city-level
cuisine in a log cabin overlooking the lake.
Location
Balfour is located on Highway 3A, 35 km (22 mi) northeast of Nelson, and is the western terminal of the Kootenay Lake ferry, connecting with Kootenay Bay across the lake.
Places to See
- Balfour Golf Course
A prestigious, 18-hole, Les Furber-designed facility complete with a driving range, putting green, a full fleet of rental carts, and a new clubhouse. Players will find the front nine carved neatly through a forested region with sand and water hazards strategically placed; while the back nine uses the mountains to provide elevation from tee to green and a breathtaking view across Kootenay Lake to the Purcell Mountains.
- Eagleview Par 3 and Mini Golf Center
Located on the grounds of the Kootenay Lakeview Lodge is Eagleview Golf Centre. Eagleview boasts a unique and challenging 9-hole Par 3 course as well as an undulating real grass 18-hole putting course. This is golf for the fun at heart with everyone able to play together and have a great day. Reasonable rates, onsite rentals, and no reservations required.
- Kootenay Lake
Kootenay Lake is the largest inland lake in BC. It's 156 km (97 mi) long and ranges from 2 km (1.24 mi) to 6 km (3.72 mi) wide, and the water is some of the cleanest and clearest on the planet.
Things to Do
- Boating
There's just nothing like being out in the middle of the lake on a hot day and diving off the boat! The main boat outlet around Balfour is Jones Boys Boats, just up past Ainsworth (about 20 minutes north of Balfour). They sell boats and equipment, service and store boats, and give away local information.
- Downhill Skiing and Boarding
Both Ski Canada Magazine and Powder Magazine have raved about ski conditions at the Whitewater Ski Resort, known for its champagne powder, spectacular scenery, and laid-back ambience.
- Cross-Country Skiing
There's nothing better than cross-country skiing on the spectacular Balfour Golf Course. Up near the Whitewater Ski Resort is the Apex-Busk area.
- Wilderness and BackCountry Skiing
For the more adventurous, Selkirk Wilderness Skiing, located in Meadow Creek at the north end of Kootenay Lake, offers the exhilaration of backcountry skiing and virgin powder on every run. Allan Drury is called the Godfather of cat skiing, and he and wife Brenda offer the finest in accommodations and atmosphere for a unique and safe backcountry experience.
- Fishing
Come to Kootenay Lake and hook an 11-pound rainbow, five or six Kokanee, or the area's world-famous Gerrard Trout.
- Hiking
The many parks near Balfour offer a variety of hiking trails with spectacular views. Watch out for bears near some trails.
Contact Information
Balfour and District Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 2
Balfour, British Columbia V0G 1C0
E-mail: info@balfourcanada.com
Website: www.balfourcanada.com
