Attractions and Places To See around Area B (Lower Columbia/Old Glory) - Top 12
Attractions and places to see around Area B (Lower Columbia/Old Glory) encompass a diverse landscape of natural features and historical sites. This region, situated along the Columbia River, offers opportunities to explore significant waterways, unique geological formations, and remnants of pioneer history. Visitors can discover a blend of outdoor adventures and insights into the past, from disused railway lines to historic settlements. The area provides a variety of experiences for those interested in its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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Last updated: April 24, 2026
Columbia and Western Rail Trail
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Northport
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Brilliant Suspension Bridge
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Shields Station Site
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Castlegar on the Columbia River
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Northport, Washington, is a small Columbia River town 12 miles south of the Canadian border. Established in 1892 by railroad builder Daniel C. Corbin, Northport quickly became a vital hub for transporting ore. Before settlers arrived, it was home to the Sohweihlp (also known as the Kettle or Colville), the Lake people, and the Spokan (Spokane) tribe as far back as 13,000 B.C.E. Today, the Columbia River Bridge, completed in 1951, connects the town to the west side of the river.
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This bridge was used until 1966, when it fell into disuse. In 1995, it was restored and reopened as a historic site, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to pass through. Offers a stunning view of the Kootenay River and
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It was built in 1913 by the Doukhobor community to provide access to agricultural land across the Kootenay River.
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KM 21.5 SHIELDS STATION - Shields was the site of a former passenger train flag stop and steam locomotive water stop. Shields was named for a railway contractor, Sim & Shields, which constructed several lines in the United States and Canada, including the Great Northern between Marcus and Grand Forks. A large open area is all that is left of Shields Station. http://columbiaandwestern.com/attractions/
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It is almost impossible to get to Castlegar by public transport, so the tour begins at the airport. Before the tour begins, it is worth taking a tour of the town and visiting the chapel of a group of Russian emigrants who fled Tsarist Russia
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The KVR ends in Midway and the Columbia and Western Rail Trail begins, which ends after a good 160 km in Castlegar. This railway line also leads through wonderful and lonely nature. In contrast to the KVR, the cyclist sometimes comes through small, former pioneer towns. This makes the supply of food and water easier. Campsites offer showers and washing machines. The trail conditions are comparable to the KVR, i.e. natural slopes with changing conditions and no gradients with more than 2.5%. After extreme rains, it can happen that the trail is washed away completely. Then it's time to pack up and carry your bike and panniers to the other "bank". This trail can also be used with motorcycles, so that you can maybe meet motocross riders. If you run out of electricity for your smartphone & Co. (including Komoot), you should pay attention to the electricity pylons. Both in the towns and across the country, there are often sockets on the masts. Most are live (110 V). Hardware stores and supermarkets often have sockets within easy reach of the facades. On the occasion: Instead of overpriced outdoor shops, you can buy camping equipment (e.g. gas cartridges) much cheaper at "Canadian Tire". They not only carry tires, but also everything for outdoor life and in almost every medium-sized city there is a branch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Area B (Lower Columbia/Old Glory)?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the Brilliant Suspension Bridge, a historic structure built by the Doukhobor community. Northport, an old ore transport hub, offers insights into early settlement and Indigenous history. The Shields Station Site marks a former railway stop. Further afield, Fort Steele Heritage Town provides a glimpse into the past with its restored buildings, and the Kimberley Underground Mining Railway offers a unique experience into the region's mining history.
What natural features and scenic viewpoints are there to discover?
The Columbia River is a dominant natural feature, offering dramatic landscapes. The Brilliant Suspension Bridge provides stunning views of the Kootenay River. The broader Columbia River Gorge is known for its scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and numerous waterfalls like Multnomah Falls. You can also observe unique geological formations created by the Columbia River Basalt Group, such as mesas and buttes. Moyie Lake Provincial Park offers access to Moyie Lake for water activities and scenic views.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Area B (Lower Columbia/Old Glory)?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Brilliant Suspension Bridge and Northport are both marked as family-friendly. The Golden Skybridge offers Canada's highest suspension bridges, a zipline, ropes course, and a mountain coaster. The Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge allows visitors to observe a grizzly bear in its natural habitat. Fort Steele Heritage Town provides interactive historical experiences, and Moyie Lake Provincial Park is great for swimming and boating.
What kind of trails are available for outdoor activities?
The Columbia and Western Rail Trail follows a disused railway line for approximately 160 km, offering a route through natural settings and past former pioneer towns, suitable for cycling and walking. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, providing scenic views. For more specific outdoor activities, you can find various routes for cycling, easy hikes, and running around the region.
Where can I experience the Columbia River up close?
You can experience the Columbia River directly at Northport, a historic town situated on its banks. Castlegar on the Columbia River also offers opportunities to appreciate this significant waterway. The Bonneville Lock & Dam is a popular spot where you can observe migrating salmon. The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum in Ilwaco, Washington, focuses on the history of the Lower Columbia River, and you can explore Ilwaco's historic waterfront afterward.
Are there opportunities for water sports or river activities?
Yes, the region offers several water-based activities. Moyie Lake Provincial Park is excellent for swimming, windsurfing, sailing, boating, and fishing. The St Mary River is popular for intro rafting trips and fly fishing. For more adventurous experiences, the Kicking Horse River is known for exhilarating whitewater rafting.
What unique geological features can be found in the area?
The geology of the region is significantly shaped by the Columbia River Basalt Group. This geological formation has created distinctive landforms such as the Channeled Scablands, mesas, buttes, coulees, potholes, giant ripple marks, and flood bars, offering unique landscapes for exploration.
What is the best way to learn about the local Indigenous history?
The town of Northport was historically home to Indigenous tribes such as the Sohweihlp (Kettle or Colville), the Lake people, and the Spokan (Spokane) tribe. The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum in Ilwaco, Washington, specifically preserves and interprets the history of the Chinook Nation and other early Indigenous inhabitants of the Lower Columbia River region.
Are there any less crowded attractions or hidden gems?
While popular spots draw crowds, exploring the full length of the Columbia and Western Rail Trail can lead you through wonderful and lonely natural areas and small, former pioneer towns. The Shields Station Site, a former railway flag stop, is now a large open area, offering a quiet historical reflection. Exploring the less-traveled sections of the Columbia River Gorge can also reveal serene spots away from the main tourist hubs.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Area B (Lower Columbia/Old Glory)?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Columbia and Western Rail Trail is valued for its scenic routes through nature and the convenience of passing through small pioneer towns for supplies. The Brilliant Suspension Bridge is loved for its historical context and the stunning views it offers of the Kootenay River. The overall appeal lies in the diverse experiences, from exploring historic settlements to engaging in outdoor activities along the Columbia River.
Are there any museums or cultural centers in the area?
Yes, the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum in Ilwaco, Washington, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of the Lower Columbia River and Pacific Coast region. Additionally, the Rose Center for the Arts at Lower Columbia College serves as a hub for arts and cultural events, featuring performance and exhibit spaces, including the Forsberg Art Gallery.
Can I find opportunities for wildlife viewing?
The diverse ecosystems of the Columbia River Gorge support an astonishing biodiversity of plants, fish, birds, and mammals, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing. Specifically, the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge provides a unique chance to observe 'Boo the Bear' in his natural habitat through interpretive tours.
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