How a lakeside village reimagined its public spaces and community life
Nestled along Kootenay Lake’s west shore, Kaslo has become a beacon for outdoor recreation and cultural activities. With support from Columbia Basin Trust and the leadership of local groups and volunteers, the village has transformed its public spaces, revitalizing the economy and bringing fresh energy to community life.
“Kaslo relies on well-maintained public spaces to welcome visitors and showcase our lakeside charm,” says Suzan Hewat, Mayor of Kaslo. “Our outdoor spaces bring people together.”
Trails That Connect and Inspire
The Kaslo Outdoor Recreation and Trails Society (KORTS), which has led a decade-long enhancement of the trail network, is central to this transformation. What began as grassroots trail development has become a well-connected system with upgraded signage, culverts, parking and trailhead amenities. In 2025, the group is adding two new 1.5-kilometre connector trails and improving trail access points, making it easier for everyone to explore the region’s natural beauty.
“The Kootenay Lake Road Trip app includes a three-kilometre Kaslo River Trail Tour that features local landmarks like the old generator from the 1890s and native plant life—kind of like an outdoor museum,” says Dan Miles, President of KORTS. “It’s a fun way to actively engage people.”
KORTS trails now see steady use by skiers, hikers and mountain bikers, with up to 100 weekly adventurers during peak season. Popular additions like the Hide and Seek sculpture trail—a playful installation by the Koots Artist Collective—encourage families and new hikers to connect with the outdoors.
“I’m proud to say that of Kaslo’s 1,049 residents, 390 are KORTS members,” says Miles. “That shows real community buy-in, and the Trust’s funding helps us dream big and carry out wonderful, creative projects.”
Space to Move, Gather and Grow
The Kaslo Skate and Bike Park, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, is another symbol of the community’s grassroots strength. Completed in 2007 after years of advocacy and volunteer effort, the scenic park attracts riders of all ages.
“Built with the help of volunteers, the skate park has become very popular,” says Hewat, who has served on Kaslo’s council since 2005.
Today, it’s also a training ground for mountain bikers and a welcoming gathering space for youth. After an adrenaline-filled ride, many cool off with a refreshing swim just steps away in Kootenay Lake.
Once a modest green space, downtown Kaslo’s Front Street Park has been reimagined with new infrastructure, including a performance pavilion, permanent washrooms and landscaped grounds. It now anchors community life and strengthens the social fabric of the village.
“It’s been a real community effort,” says Hewat. “We formed a committee with local seniors, market vendors, arts groups and a heritage consultant to shape the park’s vision.”
Café patios fill on market days, and events like Kaslo May Days and the car show turn Front Street into what Hewat calls “the village’s living room.”
Lifelong Kaslo resident Dana Carlson, owner of Cornucopia, a health food store featuring products from local artisans and farmers, is grateful for a more vibrant and welcoming downtown.
“From families picnicking in the beautiful park to performances and the farmers’ market drawing crowds, we’ve seen a real boost in support for small businesses thanks to these upgrades,” says Carlson.
A Village with Rhythm and Reach
Kaslo’s outdoor transformation also supports large-scale events like the beloved Kaslo Jazz Etc. Festival, where musicians perform on a floating stage for thousands of visitors gathered along the shoreline.
“I volunteered as front gate manager for 17 years. It’s a world of dancing on the beach, glow sticks and jazz under the stars,” says Miles. “The joy and celebration of our events attract people who are looking for the quality of life our happening little town offers.”
Kaslo stands out as a community that has brought its vision to life—shaping public spaces that foster connection, creativity and economic vitality. With long-term collaboration between local leaders, volunteers and the Trust, the village has become more than a postcard-perfect setting—it’s a place where people come together and community thrives.
“Kaslo gets its hooks into you,” says Hewat. “Between the natural beauty, the people and these amazing public spaces, it leaves a lasting impression.”
