Every winter the legend of Nelson grows. The mystique of a tiny mountain town tucked away in the “wild mountains of British Columbia” builds to the outside world. As word of our rugged and untracked terrain slowly trickles out via those who venture here, Nelson’s choice as a destination for outdoor lovers is further secured.
This week an army of some of the most influential personalities and corporate brands on Earth will begin to arrive in the Kootenay. Part of the Red Bull Signature Series, the Red Bull Supernatural event will be staged at the Baldface Lodge catski operation in the mountains just north of Nelson. Hosted by renown snowboarder Travis Rice, the event is bringing together 18 of the top snowboarders on the planet who will duke it out in the famous Kootenay snow to see who is the best in the world.
Coming along for the ride will be a support crew from Red Bull, some of the best photographers around and a host of others. Though most of the action will take place in a location unseen by the average, the impact will be felt on the streets of Nelson as those who arrive will be sure to check out our unique vibe.
This kind of exposure just doesn’t happen. We are fortunate to live in an area blessed with what Mother Nature provides, but getting the outside world to take a look means hard work as extreme as the terrain. Operators like Baldface Lodge, Whitewater and the bounty of other winter operations that dot the local map are on the ground every day of winter showing people a good time.
Local photographers and production houses like Freeride Entertainment are in the trenches in the Kootenay and all around the globe. They not only expose our world to the masses, but when out in it boast about where they live. In turn, they help bring the world to our doorstep.
Recent efforts by the Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism group to bring 24 journalists to our area this past weekend to show us off helps plant important seeds that grow into future travels and big events.
We live in a legendary location to be sure, but it takes great people to write the story people want to read.