Population: 11,106
Elevation: 535m / 1,755ft
Nelson, BC, Canada is a picturesque small town located in the Kootenay region of British Columbia. Nestled amidst the Selkirk Mountains and bordered by the stunning Kootenay Lake, Nelson offers a breathtaking natural setting that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. The town's downtown area is adorned with beautifully preserved heritage buildings, showcasing its rich history and creating a charming ambiance. Nelson is also known for its thriving arts scene, with a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and performers. The town hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its creative spirit. With its blend of natural beauty, architectural charm, and artistic vitality, Nelson offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.
Fun event with Shred Kelly and The Heavy Lighters in Railtown at the foot of Baker St.
The Queen City's natural surroundings make it a haven for outdoor activities. The Selkirk Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, with trails catering to all skill levels. Kootenay Lake offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the crystal-clear waters. The surrounding wilderness is perfect for wildlife spotting and nature photography, with an abundance of flora and fauna to discover. Nelson's proximity to nature ensures that adventurers and nature lovers will find endless opportunities to explore and reconnect with the great outdoors.
In addition to its natural beauty, Nelson is renowned for its thriving arts and culture scene. The town's artistic community is vibrant and diverse, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can explore art exhibitions, attend live performances, and immerse themselves in the creative energy that permeates the town. Nelson also hosts a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Nelson International Mural Festival, which celebrates the town's artistic spirit and transforms its walls into stunning works of art. The town's commitment to preserving its heritage and fostering artistic expression creates a unique atmosphere that is both inspiring and captivating.
Mural on the side of Thor's Pizza
Nelson has some really great food...
Nelson is a captivating destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty, architectural charm, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you're exploring the town's heritage buildings, immersing yourself in its artistic offerings, or embarking on outdoor adventures in the surrounding mountains and lake, Nelson offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Its stunning natural surroundings, coupled with its rich history and vibrant arts community, make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature and culture.
BUSINESS
City Hall
Suite 101, 310 Ward Street - Nelson, BC - V1L 5S4
Phone: (250) 352-5511
Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce
91 Baker Street - Nelson, BC - V1L 4G8
Phone: (250) 352-3433 Email: info@discovernelson.com
Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK)
Box 590 - 202 Lakeside Drive - Nelson, BC - V1L 5R4
Phone: (250) 352-6665
Toll Free: (800) 268-7325
Email: info@rdck.bc.ca
Office Hours: Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm daily)
Nelson Demographics Information
SCHOOLS
Hume Elementary School
310 Nelson Avenue - Nelson, BC - V1L 2M8
Phone: (250) 352-3186
Hume School Basketball Courts and Playground
Trafalgar Middle School
1201 Josephine Street - Nelson, BC - V1L 1X8
Phone: 250-352-5591
trafalgar@sd8.bc.ca
L V Rogers Secondary School
1004 Cottonwood Street - Nelson, BC - V1L 3W2
Phone: (250) 352-5538
clerical.lvr3@sd8.bc.ca
Rosemont Elementary School
1605 Crease Avenue - Nelson, BC - V1L 1A5
Phone: (250) 352-3182
Email: clerical.roe@sd8.bc.ca
South Nelson Elementary School
814 Latimer Street - Nelson, BC - V1L 4V7
Phone: (250) 354-4139
Email: clerical.sne@sd8.bc.ca
St. Joseph Elementary School
523 Mill Street - Nelson, BC - V1L 4S2
Phone: (250) 352-3041
ac.dnsic@noslenhpesojts
Nelson Waldorf School
3648 Silverking Ski Hill Road - Nelson, BC - V1L 5P9
Phone: (250) 352-6919
info@nelsonwaldorf.org
Mountain Montessori Early Learning Centre
310 Nelson Ave - Nelson, BC - V1L 2M8
Phone: (250) 509-1235
nelsonmontessori@hotmail.com
HOSPITALS
Kootenay Lake Hospital
3 View St - Nelson, BC - V1L 2V1
Phone: (250) 352-3111
Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital
1200 Hospital Bench - Trail, BC - V1R 4M1
Phone: (250) 368-3311
Toll Free: (866) 368-3314
Patient Care Quality Office: (877) 442-2001
(70km ~ 51min drive from Nelson)
TRAVEL
West Kootenay Regional Airport
Hall Road, just off of Highway 3A
Castlegar, BC - V1N 4M5
(250) 365-5151
airport@castlegar.ca
(The airport is 41km from Nelson...about a 30 minute drive.)
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Trail Regional Airport
Airport Operations
9019 BC-22A - Trail, BC - V1R 4W6
Phone: (250) 367-0029
(77km ~ 59 minute drive from Nelson)
Flights and Reservations
Pacific Coastal Airlines
4980 Cowley Crescent - Richmond, BC - V7B 1C1
Phone: (800) 663-2872
Approximate driving distance from Nelson to...
Castlegar, BC - 43km / 27mi
Kaslo, BC - 69km / 43mi
Kelowna, BC - 345km / 214mi
Vanvouver, BC - 656km / 407mi
Cranbrook, BC - 229km / 142mi
Calgary, AB - 621km / 386mi
Seattle, WA - 689km / 428mi
Spokane, WA - 238km / 147mi
Sandpoint, ID - 229km / 142mi
A snapshot of the local climate...
