The peaceful community of Edgewater enjoys lush, green surroundings, nine kilometres north of Radium Hot Springs, with Kootenay National Park to the east and the Purcell Mountain Range to the west. Named for its position on the edge of the Columbia River, Edgewater is one of the valley's oldest communities, formed in the early 1900s for the local ranching and farming prospects.
Easily accessed from Highway 95, Edgewater is just over two hours from Bugaboo Provincial Park, a first-class mountaineering region attracting climbers from around the world. With a gas station, general store, Legion branch, bed and breakfast, summer market, golf course and elementary school, Edgewater is popular with families, offering affordable living and a strong community. Part-time residents and retirees enjoy the cottages and RV lots at Valley’s Edge Resort. The village’s hub is the newly-refurbished community hall with its array of events and performances.
The surrounding countryside is filled with wildlife, from the often-seen mule deer, elk and pileated woodpecker, to the rare American badger. With so much natural beauty on the doorstep, visitors can enjoy year-round recreation including: boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, cross-country and downhill skiing, hunting and more.
Edgewater began as a tiny ranching and farming community at the turn of the 20th century. One of the first settlers was Dr. Herbert Gaddes, a cattle rancher and veterinary surgeon from the prairies, who arrived in 1908. Four years later he put together a company called Columbia Valley Orchards, later to become Ranches after the fruit tree venture failed.
The construction of the Edgewater Sawmill in 1912 began to draw workers to the area, forming the first cohesive community. In 1923 Columbia Valley Ranches was created and Edgewater began to expand. Today the community is mainly supported through agriculture, forestry and tourism.
Nearby attractions include Edgewater Hilltop Par 3 Golf Course, Radium Hot Springs, Kootenay National Park and Bugaboo Provincial Park. There are a wealth of walking and nature-watching opportunities around nearby Diana Lake and the surrounding countryside.
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