My understanding is that a bunch of the draft dodgers that went to Canada, ended up in Nelson. You may be surprised at how nice the small streets are and the history behind the buildings. Being in the Hume Hotel felt like I was in the HBO show Deadwood, with creaking floors and everything. Its a very old building that now has an all around good bar with TVs, pool tables and Nelson Brewing Co. on tap. I had no shortage of drinking on my trip to Nelson, but was unable to visit the Nelson Brewing Company. Looks like I’ll be going back for the beer.

Things To Do In Nelson

1. Catch big fish in Kootenay Lake (or little ones on the Salmo River)
2. Take a helicopter around the city
3. Hang out with the hippies downtown
4. Visit the scenes from the movie Roxanne
5. Walk around Baker St.

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I think the best way to fish these massive bodies of water is to fish right at the mouth of a river. This is where the cold water comes into the lake and where fish hang out. A very different kind of fishing would be to head down the 6 highway and fish the Salmo River. My Royal Coachman fly got hit almost every time I put it in the water.

On our way along the Salmo River we ran into Whitewater Winter Resort. When we approached the ski lodge there was a massive backhoe (hoes back it UP!) in the road. The operator was happy to pose and came towards us with the arm far out. He was opening and closing his claw like a creature. It began to get a little worrisome when he got closer to the truck. But it was cool to see a machine strut and the man waived to us goodbye.

Like any other ski resort you start heading up. But since you’re already deep in the mountains, I would be willing to bet the skiing here is world class. All of a sudden there are many peaks above tree line. I think the Olympics of 2010 are going to really impress some people, especially the drive to Whistler. But that’s another post.

There’s a surprising amount of vibrancy to this city, several different places to eat and shop. And there’s lots of little places tucked away that offer random services like day care, clubs, and stores. When travling to places to Nelson, I highly recommend hostels. The people that move through there often have similar stories and good friends can be met.

My words and photos will not reflect the beauty and quality of Nelson, British Columbia. I can only suggest going!
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