Rossland, British Columbia, is a hidden gem in the Kootenay region, offering rich history, thrilling outdoor activities, and a deep connection to Canada’s gold rush era. Known for its stunning mountain scenery, world-class skiing, and vibrant arts community, Rossland is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and historical exploration. But beyond the hiking trails and ski slopes lies a lesser-known piece of history—Sourdough Alley, a relic from the town’s gold prospecting days.
This article explores Rossland’s top tourism experiences before diving into the fascinating history of Sourdough Alley, a lively and sometimes lawless business district that thrived in the 1890s.
Discovering Rossland: A Hub for Adventure & Culture
Things to Do in Rossland, BC
Rossland is an outdoor paradise year-round, offering both high-energy activities and cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a longer stay, the town has something for everyone.
Outdoor Adventures
- Red Mountain Resort – One of Canada’s top ski destinations, Red Mountain Resort offers uncrowded slopes, deep powder, and a true skier’s mountain experience. In the summer, the resort transforms into a hub for hiking and mountain biking.
- Mountain Biking & Hiking – Rossland has over 200 km of world-class trails, including the famous Seven Summits Trail, a must-do for avid mountain bikers and hikers.
- Fishing & Golfing – Enjoy a round at Redstone Resort Golf Course, a stunning alpine course, or fish in the surrounding lakes and rivers.
Cultural & Historical Attractions
- Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre – Dive into the town’s mining history and explore exhibits on the people and industries that built Rossland.
- Historic Downtown – Stroll down Columbia Avenue and explore heritage buildings, local boutiques, and cafes.
- Golden City Days – This annual festival celebrates Rossland’s history, with live music, food vendors, and the Sour Dough Alley Stage paying homage to the town’s past.
Where to Stay & Eat
- The Josie Hotel – A boutique ski-in/ski-out hotel that offers luxury accommodations at Red Mountain.
- Rossland Beer Company – Sample local craft beer brewed with mountain water.
- The Flying Steamshovel Gastropub – A historic restaurant and pub offering delicious meals and local brews.
Local Tourism Associations & Resources
For more details on planning your visit, check out:
- Tourism Association of Rossland
- Rossland Chamber of Commerce
- City of Rossland Official Website
- Kootenay Columbia Trails Society
- Red Resort Charitable Association
Sourdough Alley: A Wild Relic of Rossland’s Gold Rush
While Rossland is now known for its adventure tourism, its roots are deeply tied to gold mining and the prospecting boom of the 1890s. During this period, the town’s most infamous and lively district was Sourdough Alley—a muddy, haphazard street of makeshift businesses and saloons, reflecting the chaotic energy of a gold rush town.
What Was Sourdough Alley?
- Sourdough Alley was a rough-and-tumble business district that ran parallel to Columbia Avenue, near what is now Esling Park.
- It housed everything from blacksmiths, stables, and bottling works to brothels and saloons, catering to miners and fortune-seekers.
- The name “Sourdough” was likely given because many of the men living there were “batching”—cooking for themselves, often using sourdough starter.
Life in Sourdough Alley
Described as a muddy collection of shacks with planks loosely thrown over deep puddles, Sourdough Alley was a temporary settlement that reflected the transient nature of mining booms.
- Lawlessness & Vice – Like many mining towns, Sourdough Alley had a red-light district, gambling dens, and rough saloons.
- Home to Entrepreneurs – Despite its rough reputation, Sourdough Alley was a thriving hub of commerce, with essential businesses for miners and settlers.
- Shifting & Disappearing – By 1897, when Rossland became an incorporated city, the mayor vowed to clean up the streets. Many buildings in Sourdough Alley were relocated, demolished, or absorbed into the growing town.
Experiencing Sourdough Alley Today
While the original Sourdough Alley no longer exists, its legacy lives on in several ways:
- Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre – Exhibits showcase the history of mining, the businesses that thrived in Sourdough Alley, and its impact on Rossland’s development.
- Sourdough Row – A new mixed-use development is planned for part of the original alley site, honoring its history.
- Red Mountain Resort – Visitors can dine at the Sourdough Cafeteria, Sourdough Alley Banquet Room, or Sourdough Patio, named after the historic street.
- Golden City Days Festival – The Sour Dough Alley Stage hosts live performances, keeping the town’s gold rush history alive.
The Sourdough People & Canada’s History
Rossland is more than just a charming mountain town—it’s a living piece of history where visitors can explore the past and present simultaneously. Whether you’re skiing at Red Mountain, hiking the trails, or diving into the stories of Sourdough Alley, there’s something special about experiencing history firsthand.
At The Sourdough People, we love sharing stories that blend culture, history, and food, and we invite you to recommend other Canadian places with ties to sourdough culture.
Where should we explore next? Let us know using our contact page intake form.
