Trail

Trail is a colourful city in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia, known for its rich industrial past and magnificent conditions for outdoor recreation. If you are planning a trip to Trail, it will be useful to know that you can get here in various ways, whilst enjoying the picturesque landscapes of Canada.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air transport. The city is served by its own regional airport, Trail (YZZ), which receives regular flights from major hubs such as Vancouver, ensuring convenient connections with the outside world.

Thanks to the airport being located directly within the limits of the city of Trail, travellers can save time on ground transfers. The airport is situated just a few minutes' drive from the centre, making arrival as comfortable as possible.

It is important for travellers to note that there is no direct passenger railway connection to the city of Trail. In this mountainous region, there are no active stations receiving regular long-distance trains.

Those who prefer the romance of railways will have to choose a combined route: travel by train to major cities in Canada where the railway network is developed, and cover the remaining part of the journey by rental car or bus.

Bus services are an affordable option for those who wish to reach their destination while enjoying the views from the window. Regular routes connect the region with neighbouring settlements, including the city of Nelson.

The bus covers the distance of 79 kilometres in approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. This is a convenient way to get to Trail if you prefer not to drive on unfamiliar roads.

Travelling by car will give you flexibility in planning your route and the opportunity to make stops at the most beautiful spots. The roads leading to Trail are picturesque and allow you to appreciate the beauty of the West Kootenay.

A popular route runs from the city of Nelson: the distance of about 70 kilometres can be comfortably covered in less than an hour (approximately 55 minutes). You can use taxi services or rent a car for a trip along the roads of Canada.

To ensure your trip to Trail is as comfortable and safe as possible, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations for preparing for your journey.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The weather in the mountains is changeable. It is recommended to dress in layers and definitely bring comfortable trekking shoes and a waterproof windbreaker, even during the summer season.
2. Transport. Public transport within the city may run with long intervals. To explore the surroundings and travel into nature, it is best to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash for small purchases is useful.
4. Health and Safety. Medical care in Canada is of high quality but expensive for tourists, so be sure to arrange travel insurance. The single emergency number is 911.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Local residents are friendly and willing to help if you have questions.
6. Tipping. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount, as the service charge is usually not included in the bill.
7. Wildlife. The city borders forests inhabited by bears and other animals. Never leave food outside and study the rules of conduct when encountering wild animals.
8. Local Atmosphere. Do not miss the opportunity to walk through the historic centre and visit local viewpoints to appreciate the industrial scale and natural beauty of the region.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on relaxing and exploring this interesting corner of British Columbia.