ad
Wasa
ad

Wasa, British Columbia: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

Nestled in the heart of the Kootenay Rockies, Wasa is a small community in southeastern British Columbia that offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. From pristine lakes and rivers to rugged mountains and forests, this area is a paradise for hikers, campers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-packed adventure, Wasa has something for everyone.

Attractions and Natural Wonders

  • Wasa Lake: This crystal-clear lake is the centerpiece of the community and a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. With a sandy beach and picnic areas, it's a great place to spend a summer day with family and friends.
  • Wasa Lions Club Provincial Park: This park surrounds Wasa Lake and offers camping, hiking, and biking trails, as well as a playground and a boat launch. It's a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • St. Mary River: This river is known for its excellent fly fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout. With its clear waters and scenic surroundings, it's a must-visit spot for anglers.
  • Premier Lake Provincial Park: This park is located about 20 minutes from Wasa and features a beautiful alpine lake, hiking trails, and camping facilities. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
  • Kikomun Creek Provincial Park: This park is located about 30 minutes from Wasa and offers camping, hiking, and boating opportunities, as well as a sandy beach and a playground. It's a great place for families to spend a weekend.
  • Wasa Heritage Village: This village showcases the history of the area, with restored buildings and artifacts from the early 1900s. It's a great place to learn about the pioneers who settled in the region.

Parks, Lakes, and Trails

  • Wasa Lake Trail: This easy, 2.7-kilometer trail circles Wasa Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • Lazy Lake Trail: This moderate, 6-kilometer trail leads to Lazy Lake, a secluded alpine lake with great fishing and swimming. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
  • Dewdney Trail: This historic trail follows the route of the old Dewdney Trail, which was used by gold miners and traders in the late 1800s. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests and is a great place for a day hike.
  • Mount Baker Wild Trail: This challenging, 16-kilometer trail leads to the summit of Mount Baker and offers breathtaking views of the Kootenay Rockies. It's a great place for experienced hikers and mountaineers.

Festivals and Events

  • Wasa Triathlon: This annual event attracts athletes from across the region and features a swim in Wasa Lake, a bike ride through the surrounding countryside, and a run along the lake shore.
  • Wasa Country Music Festival: This annual festival features top country music acts from across Canada and the United States, as well as local food and craft vendors. It's a great place to enjoy live music and soak up the atmosphere of the Kootenay Rockies.

History of Wasa, British Columbia

Wasa was established in the late 1800s as a mining and logging town. The community was named after the Wasa Lake, which was named after a Finnish town. In 1956, Wasa was incorporated as a village. Today, the community is home to about 300 residents and is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Wasa, British Columbia is a hidden gem for nature lovers, with its pristine lakes, rugged mountains, and lush forests. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-packed adventure, this area has something for everyone. From hiking and camping to fishing and boating, there are endless opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Kootenay Rockies. So why not plan a trip to Wasa today and discover the magic of this hidden gem for yourself?

Sources

  • BC Parks. (n.d.). Premier Lake Provincial Park. Retrieved from https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/premier_lk/
  • BC Parks. (n.d.). Wasa Lions Club Provincial Park. Retrieved from https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/wasa_lk/
  • BC Parks. (n.d.). Kikomun Creek Provincial Park. Retrieved from https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/kikomun_crk/
  • HelloBC. (n.d.). Wasa. Retrieved from https://www.hellobc.com/destinations-and-tours/kootenay-rockies/wasa.aspx
  • Wasa Lake. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://wasalake.com/
  • Wasa Lions Club. (n.d.). Wasa Heritage Village. Retrieved from https://wasalions.com/wasa-heritage-village/
ad