To get there: Located on a very nice stretch of Kootenays highway between Kaslo and Nelson (highway 31). The total distance of that drive is about 70km, and Kokanee Creek is closer to Nelson, probably about 20km out. There is a Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, and campground at the takeout. Kokanee Glacier Rd goes up the river left side of the creek.

***There are many roads in the West Kootenays marked Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, because many of them go there. There are roads approaching that area on all sides. They don't all join up, and this is the only one to access Kokanee Creek***

There is a pullout within the first kilometer of the road, and the falls can be scouted from there, by walking down to, and along the creek on the network of present walking trails.

I have not run this section (just another scouting mission) so use your own judgement about where to put in, but the road continues along the creek for about 8-10km.

The Rapids: I have not run this section. Kokanee Falls is a Class 5-5+ 6m waterfall, with a small ledge about 5m downstream. The character of the creek seems to be a mix of smooth polished bedrock, and broken bedrock boulders. It’s a nice area, and another must do for anyone in the area who is up to it. From what I scouted it seemed like Kokanee Falls, is likely the only waterfall on the run, and it is really more of a boulder/bedrock character.

Spencer Cox.

< Prev		Next >