Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Millennium Park & Ponds
The city's flagship park on the Columbia. Three swimming ponds, a riverside loop, the play structure the City opened in 2024 as Canada's tallest, and the default answer to 'what should we do this evening?'
Why locals end up here
Millennium Park is what happens when a city puts its best recreation asset on its best waterfront. The Columbia River runs along the west edge. The paved loop trail lets you walk, run, stroller, or bike along the water. The natural swimming ponds (cooler than the river, warmer than the ocean) are a summer staple for families. On a Tuesday evening in July, you'll find soccer games, dog walkers, teenagers at the bike park, and entire extended families at picnic tables.
The play structure (opened June 2024 as Canada's tallest)
In June 2024, the City opened a new play structure billed as Canada's tallest. Whatever the leaderboard does over the years, the practical effect is the same: it's a destination piece. Families genuinely drive from other parts of the Kootenays to bring their kids here. Expect yours to spend longer than you planned. Shade is limited at midday; mornings and evenings are best in hot weather.
The swimming ponds
Three natural swimming ponds sit in the heart of the park, each with a small sand beach. They're a classic Kootenay summer destination, less crowded than the main Columbia River swim spots, and with shallower gradients that work for toddlers and non-swimmers. Picnic tables are nearby. Swim at your own risk (no lifeguards), and obey any posted advisories.
Tip
The local move on a hot day
Arrive before 11 a.m. or after 5 p.m. to beat the sun and the crowds. The pavilion concession is open in summer, but locals bring their own snacks. Water shoes help because the pond bottoms are natural.
Sports fields, dog park, bike park
- Soccer fields: regulation size, used by local leagues. Field rentals are through RDCK Recreation at 250-365-3386.
- Volleyball court: sand. First-come, first-served.
- Dog park: fenced off-leash area on the park's south side.
- Bike park: pump track and progression features for all ages. Wildly popular after school.
The Pavilion (year-round washrooms)
The Pavilion houses a summer concession and year-round public washrooms, rare for a riverfront park. It can be rented for private events through RDCK Recreation. It's also the warm-up point if you're out for a cold-weather river walk.
Events
Millennium Park is the default venue for large community events: Sunfest (summer music festival), Canada Day celebrations, Terry Fox Run, Earth Day cleanups, and smaller weekend gatherings. Watch the Events page for what's on.
Good to know
Special events & weddings
Weddings, parades, and private events in the park need a Park Use, Parade, or Special Event Permit (Bylaw 1410). Apply at least a month ahead. See the parks page for details.
Accessibility
The main pathways are paved and wheelchair-friendly. The play structure has accessible components at ground level. The Pavilion washrooms are accessible. The beaches are natural sand; contact the City if you need specific accessibility details for an event.
Common questions
Can I swim here?
Yes, the natural swimming ponds are open in summer. Swim at your own risk, there are no lifeguards on duty. Obey any posted advisories.
Is parking free?
Yes, free park-user parking is available along 5th Street and at the Pavilion. On peak summer weekends, get there early.
Are dogs allowed?
On leash in the main park. There's a dedicated fenced off-leash area on the south side.
How do I book a soccer field?
Field rentals are administered by RDCK Recreation at 250-365-3386 / casrec@rdck.bc.ca, not by the City.
How do I book the Pavilion?
Same as the fields, through RDCK Recreation: 250-365-3386.
When does the concession open?
Seasonally, typically late May through early September. Contact RDCK for the current year's schedule.
Can I have a wedding here?
Yes, with a Park Use and Special Event Permit under Bylaw 1410. Apply at least one month in advance and carry $5M liability insurance naming the City as additional insured.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Not public Wi-Fi in the park itself. The nearest public Wi-Fi is at the Castlegar & District Public Library.
What to do next
Still need help?
Talk to City (park) or RDCK (field/pavilion rentals)
- Phone
- 250-365-7227
- info@castlegar.ca
- Hours
- Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm
- In person
- Millennium Park & Ponds, 100 5th Street, Castlegar, BC. RDCK Recreation: 250-365-3386.
Submit a request online
Faster than calling for non-urgent issues. We respond within one business day.