We RV’d our way to Crawford Bay, B.C. after crossing the Kootenay Lake on the ferry from Balfour, B.C. to Kootenay Bay. Crawford Bay is located 10 km (6 mi) from Kootenay Bay, so is a very short drive into the Creston Valley on Highway 3A.
Beautiful fall colors Crawford Bay sits near the eastern shore of Kootenay Lake. It is a small community with much to offer locals and visitors alike. There are clothing, jewellery and gift shops, a general store with gas pumps and restaurants nearby and the market across the road from our RV park, which carries the fruit and vegetables as well as garden and pet supplies. Kokanee Chalets & RV park offers facilities for all, and well known Kokanee Springs Golf Resort nearby that attracts visitors from far and wide. The RV park has an airstrip right next door that allows many of the clientele to fly in and I’ve heard several small planes and helicopters while we’ve been RV’ing here.
Crawford Bay, B.C. definitely seems to have more than their share of artisans, although there are many throughout the Kootenays. I think the distinction is made by the fact there are several artisan shops to visit while in Crawford Bay offering opportunities for visitors to view them at work. There is weaving, glassblowing, a blacksmith, and broom makers who demonstrate their talents and offer their products in their own stores, six working studios in all. The broom making shop shown in the picture uses original broom making equipment from the 1890’s. Although I didn’t get to see the equipment in action, it is amazing to just know that it is still working and offers a product from times of old that can still be made today.
To see more fall colors, visit the Peace River country.