A Small Town Full of Adventure, Art, Mountain Biking, Trail Running, Skiing and Alpine Charm
Rossland, British Columbia
From artsy streets to peaceful lakes and forested trails, there’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation waiting here. Bookmark this page, read the posts that call to you and start building your ultimate Rossland BC itinerary.
Top Things to Do, See, and Explore in Rossland BC
Welcome to Rossland, one of British Columbia’s most captivating alpine towns. Located high in the West Kootenays, Rossland is best known for its legendary skiing, thrill-seeking mountain biking and trail running, and deep roots in gold rush history. Once a booming mining town in the late 1800s, it’s now a laid-back destination where adventure and creativity go hand in hand.
RED Mountain Resort put Rossland on the map as one of Canada’s top ski destinations, and its network of mountain bike trails draws riders from around the world. But there’s more to this place than outdoor adrenaline. Between its art-filled streets, heritage buildings, and hidden natural gems, Rossland offers the kind of rich, well-rounded experience that keeps travellers coming back.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through on a Kootenay road trip, this is your launchpad for exploring the best things to do in Rossland. Each blog post below dives into a different side of town — from fishing and art to cozy places to stay.
Plan Your Rossland Adventure
My Perfect 36 Hours in Rossland
The itinerary for what I would do in Rossland if you asked
Day One
On Arrival
If it’s summer, head out to Nancy Greene Lake with a picnic and a good book. The white-sand beach and alpine water are magic.
If it’s winter, make your way to RED Mountain Resort. I don’t ski, but I’ll happily park myself on a patio with a fizzy soda and gooey poutine while the ski bunnies and bros zip by. If you do ski, I hear it’s otherworldly up there.
Evening
Now it’s time to check in at the Prestige Mountain Resort. And trust me, splurge on the French Glitz Designer Suite. The mirrored furniture is iconic, the bed is cloudlike, and the bathroom is a whole experience.
Dinner is a must at Gabriella’s Restaurant. The pasta is pure comfort, plated like fine art.
Afterward, stroll across the street to Rossland Beer Company and grab a Helter Smelter amber ale. No citrus hops, just crisp, clean perfection. Oliver was thrilled. I still miss the citrus.
Day Two
Morning
Roll out of bed and down to Trail for brunch at the Arlington Bar and Grill. It’s tucked into the historic Arlington Hotel and serves the kind of hearty, no-fuss breakfast that hits the spot every time.
Afternoon
End your day in Rossland before you head to your next stop with a mellow hike on the Centennial Trail and Moe’s Trail Loop. It’s an approachable loop, flat on one side and gently bumpy on the other, with views of the lake, forest, and those wonderfully cheeky interpretive signs that scream “Kootenay culture.”
Before You leave
Before you head out of Rossland pop into a local café for a final coffee and wander through Rossland’s downtown. It’s small, eclectic, and full of character, which is exactly how I like my town.
Quick Links to Our Favourite Things in Rossland BC
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Rossland Tourism
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Bombshack
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Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre
Ski. Bike. Explore. Repeat.
Rossland may be a little off the beaten path, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. This alpine town offers a unique blend of high-energy adventure and quiet charm — from public art and peaceful lakes to legendary ski runs and world-class mountain biking.
In winter, RED Mountain Resort is a powder lover’s paradise with deep snow, no lift lines, and a laid-back ski culture that locals are proud of. Come summer, the Seven Summits Trail and surrounding singletrack turn Rossland into a two-wheeled playground for mountain bikers of all levels.
Whether you’re carving down alpine slopes or coasting through sun-dappled forests, you’ll find that Rossland delivers a big adventure in a small-town package. And when you’re ready to slow it down? The streets are filled with art, history, and places to unwind.
Bookmark this page, browse the guides below and start building your ultimate Rossland itinerary.
For more road trip ideas, BC travel inspiration, and hidden gems across the province, follow @HeyBethTaylor on Instagram. And stay tuned — more ski and bike stories are coming soon.