The free Kootenay Lake Ferry connects Balfour with Kootenay Bay on the east side of the lake. The crossing is a scenic part of the journey and a key reason visitors pass through Balfour.

Allow extra time during busy travel periods, and check the current sailing schedule before setting out. Shops and snack stops around the terminal may be closed or operating limited hours during the off-season.

Enjoy a meal or drink beside Kootenay Lake, right near the ferry terminal. Suites are also available for visitors wanting to stay close to the water.

Location: 7924 Balfour Wharf Road
Phone: 250-229-4244

Stop for fresh baking, coffee and something delicious to enjoy on the road or by the lake.

Location: 450 Balfour Ferry Road
Phone: 778-463-2120

Discover handmade gifts, art and crafts created by local Kootenay artists. A lovely stop for locally made souvenirs and gifts.

Location: 7697 Highway 3A, Balfour
Phone: 250-505-4393

A casual ice cream and snack stop at the ferry landing. It’s a convenient place to grab a treat while waiting for the ferry.

Location: Balfour Ferry Landing, 350 Ferry Landing Road

Located at the Balfour Ferry Landing, Blue Sky Clothing offers comfortable clothing made with natural fibers, including styles for a wide range of sizes.

Location: Balfour Ferry Landing, 350 Ferry Landing Road
Phone: 250-229-4434
Seasonal note: This is a seasonal retail location. Hours and opening dates may change, so call ahead before visiting.

A small gift-shopping stop near the ferry landing, ideal for browsing while waiting for your crossing.

Location: 450 Ferry Landing Road
Seasonal note: Local shops around the ferry landing may have seasonal hours or closures. Confirm locally before making a special trip.

Pick up groceries, wine, snacks, travel essentials and basic hardware supplies at this convenient local store.

Location: 7824 Highway 3A, Balfour
Phone: 250-229-4612

A local option for wood-fired pizza and an easy takeaway meal.

Location: 7575 Highway 3A, Balfour

Play an 18-hole golf course, set above the Kootenay Lake with mountain views, a driving range, putting green and rental carts.

Location: 602 Queens Bay Road
Phone: 250-229-5655 or 1-866-669-4653
Seasonal note: Golf is seasonal, and the course may close or reduce services as weather changes in fall and winter. Call before planning a round.

Enjoy a meal with scenic views at the restaurant located at Balfour Golf Course.

Location: 602 Queens Bay Road
Phone: 250-229-4113

A community-run gym located in the historic Old School House at John Roos Community Spirit Park. The facility offers self-guided fitness access for members; contact the recreation team for current membership and access information.

Location: 7604 Upper Balfour Road
Phone: 250-229-5655

Enjoy local green space, a soccer field, gazebo and outdoor recreation facilities. Tennis and pickleball courts are also available seasonally.

Location: End of Charles Street, near the lake
Phone: 250-229-5655
Seasonal note: Playing-court access is seasonal and may depend on membership or drop-in arrangements. Check availability before visiting.

Try a free-use disc golf course beside Balfour Community Park. Disc rentals may be available through the golf course pro shop.

Location: End of Charles Street, Balfour
Phone: 250-229-5655

Stay near the ferry terminal with lakefront access, dining nearby and suites suited to a short visit or a longer getaway.

Location: 7924 Balfour Wharf Road
Phone: 250-229-4244

An all-suite resort in the Queens Bay area, offering lake and mountain scenery and a convenient base for exploring Balfour and the surrounding region.

Location: 1285 Queens Bay Road
Phone: 1-877-229-4141

A beautiful located just south of Balfour, this lakeside property has a marina, boat launch and views of Kootenay Lake. 

Location: 7048 Lee Road
Phone: 250-229-4275

Explore the scenic local roads and surrounding landscapes at your own pace. Use caution on rural roads, check conditions before heading out, and plan for changing weather.

The lake and mountain scenery are highlights of the Balfour area in every season. Enjoy the waterfront, watch the ferry come and go, or take time to explore the community’s local shops and outdoor spaces.

We hope this guide helps you discover a local favorite, find a good meal, enjoy the outdoors or choose a place to stay while exploring the Kootenays.

Full Circle Wellness
7920A Balfour Wharf Road. Balfour, BC
Phone: 250-898-7288