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Getting Here Nelson
Directions, distances, and travel tips
By Air
The closest commercial airport is West Kootenay Regional Airport (YCG) in Castlegar, about 45 minutes away. Daily flights connect to Vancouver on Pacific Coastal Airlines.
West Kootenay Regional Airport (YCG) Website
By Car
Nelson is well-connected by Highway 3A and Highway 6. The drive is scenic through mountain passes — allow extra time in winter.
Vancouver
6.5 hrs
614 km
Kelowna
3.5 hrs
320 km
Calgary
6.5 hrs
620 km
Castlegar
45 min
45 km
By Bus
BC Transit operates local bus service within Nelson. Greyhound-era intercity routes have been replaced by regional services — check BC Transit for current schedules.
BC Transit Website
Travel Tips
- •Winter driving requires winter tires — mountain passes can close during heavy snowfall
- •Fill up on gas before heading into the mountains — stations can be sparse
- •The free Kootenay Lake Ferry (Balfour–Kootenay Bay) is a scenic shortcut from the east