Nelson travel Guide

Nelson travel guide

National Airports

The city of Nelson does not have its own airport. The nearest airport to Nelson is the Castlegar Airport (YCG), which is approximately 30 minutes away by car. Another nearby airport is the Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which is approximately 3 hours away by car. Both airports offer connections to major Canadian cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton.

Trains in Nelson

There are no train services in Nelson, BC. The closest train station is located in Castlegar, about a 30-minute drive away, and is served by the Via Rail’s “The Canadian” train that runs between Vancouver and Toronto. However, train travel may not be the most convenient option for getting to or from Nelson, as there is no direct train service to the city and the schedule may not be as frequent or flexible as other transportation options.

Buses in Nelson

There are several bus companies that offer service to and from Nelson, making it an easy and convenient way to travel. Some of the bus companies that serve Nelson include:

Greyhound: Greyhound operates buses that connect Nelson with major cities in British Columbia, such as Vancouver and Kelowna, as well as other cities in western Canada.

Kootenay Connector: This company operates a shuttle service between Nelson and Kelowna, with stops in other towns in the Kootenay region.

BC Transit: The local transit authority in Nelson, BC Transit, operates several bus routes that connect different parts of the city and the surrounding area.

Silver City Stagelines: This company offers charter services for groups or individuals traveling to or from Nelson.

Overall, bus travel is a convenient and affordable option for getting around Nelson and connecting with other destinations in British Columbia and western Canada.

How to get to Nelson

There are several ways to get to Nelson, BC, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation. Here are some options:

By Air: The nearest airport to Nelson is the Castlegar Airport (YCG), which is approximately 30 minutes away by car. Another nearby airport is the Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which is approximately 3 hours away by car. Both airports offer connections to major Canadian cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton.

By Car: Nelson is located on Highway 3A, which connects to the Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3) and the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). If you are driving from Vancouver, it will take approximately 8 hours to reach Nelson, while driving from Calgary takes around 7 hours.

By Bus: Greyhound and Kootenay Connector operate bus services to and from Nelson, connecting the city with other major cities in British Columbia and western Canada.

By Train: While there are no train services to Nelson itself, you can take the Via Rail’s “The Canadian” train to Castlegar, which is about a 30-minute drive from Nelson.

Overall, there are several convenient and affordable transportation options for getting to Nelson, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across Canada and beyond.

What is the best time to travel to Nelson

The best time to travel to Nelson depends on your interests and preferences.

Summer (June to August) is a popular time to visit Nelson due to its mild weather and abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and water sports on nearby Kootenay Lake. The town also hosts several music festivals, such as the famous Shambhala Music Festival, and has a lively arts scene.

Fall (September to November) is a great time to visit Nelson if you enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage and quieter crowds. The weather is generally mild, and you can take advantage of the numerous hiking trails, hot springs, and fall festivals in the area.

Winter (December to February) is a popular time to visit for winter sports enthusiasts, as Nelson is located near several ski resorts, including Whitewater Ski Resort, which is known for its deep powder and challenging terrain. Other winter activities include snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding.

Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. The weather is mild, and the spring blooms make for beautiful scenery.

Overall, Nelson is a year-round destination with something to offer visitors in every season, so the best time to travel depends on your personal preferences and interests.

How to get around Nelson

Nelson is a relatively small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. However, if you want to venture further afield or explore the surrounding countryside, you may need to consider other transportation options. Here are some ways to get around Nelson:

Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient option if you want to explore the surrounding area or visit nearby attractions. There are several car rental companies in Nelson, including national chains and local companies.

Taxi: Taxis are available in Nelson, and they can be useful if you need to get somewhere quickly or if you’re traveling with a group. You can find taxi companies by searching online or asking at your hotel or accommodation.

Public transit: The Nelson Transit System provides bus service within the town and to nearby communities. You can find schedules and route maps on the City of Nelson’s website.

Bike rental: If you want to explore Nelson on two wheels, there are several bike rental companies in town. Biking is a popular way to get around Nelson, and there are several bike paths and trails in the area.

Walking: Nelson is a pedestrian-friendly town, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the town and take in the beautiful scenery.

Accommodations in Nelson

Nelson has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of accommodation in Nelson:

Hotels: Nelson has several hotels, ranging from budget to luxury. Most hotels are located in the downtown area, and many offer amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.

Bed and Breakfasts: Nelson has a number of charming bed and breakfasts, many of which are located in historic homes or buildings. Bed and breakfasts typically offer a more personalized experience than hotels and often include a home-cooked breakfast.

Vacation rentals: Vacation rentals, such as apartments, condos, and cottages, are a popular option in Nelson. Vacation rentals can be a good choice for families or groups, as they often have more space than hotels and may include a kitchen or other amenities.

Hostels: Nelson has a few hostels, which are a good choice for budget travelers or backpackers. Hostels typically offer dormitory-style accommodations, as well as private rooms.

Camping: If you’re looking for an outdoor experience, there are several campgrounds in the Nelson area. Camping can be a good choice if you’re traveling with an RV or if you want to spend time in nature.