Summer Information For Rossland In British Columbia






May 16, 08

Rossland
British Columbia

Rich History and Scenic Beauty

Rossland, situated in the crater of a long-extinct volcano, started with the discovery of gold on Red Mountain and was originally called Thompson.

It was named for Ross Thompson, who arrived here in 1892 and acquired a crown grant for pre-preemption of 160 acres as a townsite. The name was changed when post office complications came about. Rossland was incorporated in 1897 and celebrated its centennial recently.

A self-guided walking tour of the heritage buildings and an underground gold mine tour give visitors a glimpse at the town's history. Two museums house information about one of the world's richest gold strikes. The largest mine, the LE R01, grossed more than $30 million.

This region's rich history is complemented by its scenic beauty. Located in the West Kootenay region of southwestern British Columbia, Rossland is only six miles north of the Canadian/United States border and eight hours from Vancouver. Here in the mountains of the Monashee Range, visitors can find a wide variety of recreational opportunities.

Trails and More

Mountains bikers can't help but enjoy the more than 65 miles of trails that radiate out from the center of town. The maze of logging roads, wagon trails and railroad grades makes for countless riding and hiking challenges. Historic trails, such as the Dewdney, Smugglers and the Wagon Road and Railgrade give bikers a maze of endless single-track riding. Rossland has been host to the North American and Canadian Mountain Bike Championships.

The many trails used by mountain bikers are fantastic for hikers too. The Railgrade has old-time advertisements painted on the rocks next to the trail; "Whiskey -- 25 cents." Another great hike is up Plewman Ridge and beyond to Old Glory, the highest peak in the Monashee Mountains. A lot of the recreational trails are on private land and many are not marked on maps or signs.

Fish the Columbia

Fishing enthusiasts will be in heaven with the world-class fishing on the Columbia River. The rainbow trout average two to five pounds and walleye up to 12 pounds. Don't think these fish can be had without challenges though. The river averages 18 to 22 mph and has many hidden rocks and shallow bars. Guides are recommended for first-timers, and those with experience on the river are asked to give it due respect. Champion Lakes Provincial Park, just 45 minutes east of Rossland, offers good fly fishing for trout.

Golfers will find the 71-year-old Rossland course a unique treat. The mountain course even has a hole with a rope tow to take golfers from the tee to the green. There are several other courses in the area as well, and each offers its own challenges and a backdrop of spectacular scenery.

A wide array of art studios, galleries, shops and restaurants gives visitors their choice of goods and cuisine.

Mammoth Mountain