Mountain bikers take in the view overlooking Rossland

Rossland, “the Golden City,” is also known as Canada's Alpine City by virtue of its surrounding mountains and the role they have played in the city's development. Tucked high in the Monashee Mountains at an elevation of 1023 metres (3410 feet) it is one of Canada 's highest cities. With a population of under 4000, no traffic lights or sprawling malls, Rossland is a small city with more than a touch of class. Back in 1897, when tremendous gold finds lured thousands of people, Rossland for a time was British Columbia 's largest. 

Rossland's wealth began with the legendary Le Roi Mine, which produced phenomenal amounts of gold during its working life. Today you can tour the Le Roi Mine, Canada 's only historic hard rock gold mine, and the Rossland Historical Museum. Try your hand at gold panning and view the spectacular geology display centre. A real treat is to be entertained by the Gold Fever Follies, a century old production put on at the historic miner's hall. This classic production tells the story of a by-gone era when miner's struck gold and Rossland was becoming the fasting growing city in British Columbia. You can also learn the story of Cominco, the world's largest lead-zinc production complex.

From early prospectors to todays' visitors, many have come here only to fall under the spell of the mountains and become skiers, mountain bikers and adventurers of every sort. Hilly streets, loads of winter snow, warm and sunny summers, great views combined with our glorious gold mining past, make Rossland a natural destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs or anyone looking for small town charm in an alpine setting. Rossland was voted one of the top ten “Adventure Towns” by National Geographic Magazine! Take a walking tour of the city, which includes a number of Victorian buildings. Visit the West Kootenay Power Exhibit and Western Ski Hall of Fame.

Red Mountain Resort, which is only 3 kms (1¾ miles) from downtown, is a first rate ski mountain blessed with snow falls that exceed 750cm. (300") per year. With its natural elevation skiers flock from all over the world to experience the abundance of powder days and laid back culture at Red Mountain Resort.

In town, the annual snowfall averages 370cm (148"), and although there is snow in Rossland a month longer than in nearby valleys, the climate is moderate. Average summer temperatures are 25° C (77° F) for a high and a low of 11° C (42 °F). Rarely are winter days colder than -10° C (16 °F) and the average high is 3° C (26°F). Often above the clouds, Rossland receives about 2000 hours (bright) of sunshine per year and windy days are rare.

When the snow recedes Rossland's mountainous setting is a mountain biking paradise, and is becoming known and loved for its abundance of trails in and around the city, suiting all levels of experience. The newest multi-use trail added to an impressive system of trails is the Seven Summits Trail. It is a 30.4 km (18.9 mile) trail that is being touted as the premier trail in the southern section of the West Kootenays.

More than 75 years of golf tradition await you at the Redstone Golf Resort; a unique blend of rich history, beautiful alpine scenery, old world hospitality and modern amenities.

Contact Tourism Rossland for more information.