Columbia Valley

WASA LAKE

Columbia Valley Weather

The Columbia Valley has the warmest year-round temperatures of anywhere in the Canadian Rockies. SUMMER (late June to mid-Sept.) is definitely the high season for the local tourism industry, especially on weekends and the school holiday period of July through August. Local lakes are warm enough for Columbia Valley swimming in July and August through to early September and daytime temperatures are often in the 30s.

For visitors looking to explore the region (as opposed to just relaxing around the many lakes), late spring and early fall are excellent times to visit the Columbia Valley for two reasons: you’ll avoid the crowds, and you’ll save money. SPRING (mid-Apr. to late June) is notable for long days of sunlight (in late June it stays light until after 10 p.m.) and a sense of optimism for the upcoming warm months. FALL (mid-Sept. to Nov.) can be delightful, especially September, with lingering warm temperatures and a noticeable decrease in crowds immediately after the long weekend (at the beginning of the month). While fall colours in general lack the intensity of those in the eastern provinces and New England, Western larch turn a brilliant yellow throughout high alpine areas in late September and early October (usually a week or two later than the larch of Banff National Park).

Local ski resorts such as Kimberley and Panorama open for the WINTER season (Dec. to mid-Apr.) in December. The better snow conditions are often January to February, although for enthusiasts looking for a combination of good snow and warmer weather, March is an excellent time of year to visit.

Moyie Lake has warm, clear water for swimming.

Moyie Lake has warm, clear water for swimming.

Columbia Valley Webcams

For checking current weather conditions, click here for Columbia Valley webcams.