Kootenay Steamboats
A colorful steamboat era preceded the railways. During mining boom days of 1893-98 a fleet of sternwheelers ran north from the railway at Jennings, Mont., to Fort Steele and vicinity. Carrying prospectors, freight and ore they battled treacherous currents, shoals, and canyons to provide a vital transportation link. The Kootenays owe them much!
From BC's Stops of Interest