Canal Flats is nestled in the heart of the Kootenays at the southern end of Columbia Lake, the source of the Columbia River. There is a public beach, arena, golf course, walking trails and parks and plenty of wildlife.
The source of the fourth largest river system in North America starts in Canal Flats. Hike the Columbia Trail which winds 1.5 km through the wetlands. Just off the trail, wildflowers, insects, birds and wildlife can be seen and witness the water bubbling from the ground at the end of the loop.
Canal Flats is the gateway to several backcountry provincial parks, including Whiteswan and Top of the World, and is an entrance to the Kootenay River Road.