Where Castlegar locals get away

It’s summertime in the Kootenays, and Castlegar residents know where they’re headed

1 of 2Max makes good use of his down time on Arrow Lake. — Photo courtesy Max Kutasewich

2 of 2Max and his wife love their retreat on Arrow Lake. — Photo courtesy Max Kutasewich

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With stunning surroundings, a variety of outdoor activities and a vibrant art scene, Castlegar is a destination of its own accord. But what do the locals do when they have some time off? Turns out they also love the getaways that the area is known for.

Stuart Ady owns Ernie’s Used Auto Parts and is president of the Castlegar Chamber of Commerce. For a summer weekend away, he’ll jump in his 28-foot cabin cruiser with his wife and head for the Arrow Lakes. They seem to disappear, finding a hidden bay to spend their downtime on the water. Over the winter, Ady said that they’re fortunate to have ski hills near by, as well as excellent country skiing in the area. Everything, he claims, is right there at their fingertips.

Tammy Verigin-Burk, manager of the Castlegar Chamber of Commerce, loves the area's hot springs for a winter soak. Both Halcyon Hot Springs in Nakusp and Ainsworth Hot Springs allow for a relaxing day trip. Once the weather warms up, her favourite activity is swimming and camping at Syringa Provincial Park.

Max Kutasewich is a certified carpenter and owner of Take It to the Max Construction. Together with his wife, he owns property at Bowman Creek on Arrow Lakes, which he’s in the process of developing. It’s a favourite getaway and Max particularly enjoys fishing, quadding, boating, hiking and swimming.