Kaslo Backpacker's Hostel

by Catherine McCormick

Kaslo is a fine place to use as a jumping off point for some good hikes in the West Kootenays. You might even recognize the owners of the Kaslo Backpacker’s Hostel - Sarah and Darren. They both have worked at the hostels at Rampart Creek and Hilda Creek during the past decade.

A total of six rooms allows 17 guests to stay at the hostel. Most rooms will easily accommodate 5 people and there is one small private room. A private room will cost $50 for two people. Other accommodation rates are $25/person/night and children 10 and under are free.

Each room is named for a particular bird and one of my favourite spots in the hostel is the loft designated to be called "the heron’s nest" which sleeps two and has an additional nook for a couple of kids – perfect for a family of four. You’ll find a bathroom and separate shower room on the second floor, as well as a comfortable lounge area with a TV and VCR/DVD players. It will sit 7 people very well and you’ll find that you can use your own computer here as there is wireless internet at the hostel, but no extra computer.

Sarah describes her kitchen as the best kitchen hostel ever! It is fully equipped, including a coffee maker. The dining area will sit 10 at the large table and there is additional seating outside on the deck overlooking the garden.

There is no guest laundry at this hostel but those facilities are available in the village of Kaslo. A great feature for many tired hikers and skiers is the wood-fired sauna just off the deck. Other amenities include canoe rentals at $55/day, kayaks at $50/day and bikes at $15- $20/day.

The backpacker’s hostel is home to my favourite Kaslo garden. Sarah’s theme for her 2008 garden is "edible, incredible" and having observed the progress of the garden this year I anticipate it will be a fine place to try out some home grown fruits and veggies.

Check out the Kootenays as a vacation spot. It’s relatively uncrowded, offers fantastic hiking and skiing opportunities, and is home to a very fine hostel in Kaslo – the Kaslo Backpacker’s Hostel.