In 1944, the West Kootenay Power and Light Company completed its Brilliant Dam which raised and stilled thewaters of the river at Glade. This made it impossible to operate a reaction ferry and for a time a rowboat was used then later on a barge and powerboat. The Ministry assumed responsibility for the crossing during 1955 when a single-lane, three vehicle cable ferry scow was put into use. Later the scow was widened to increase its capacity to five vehicles. An eight-car ferry barge was placed in service at the crossing in 1980. (Courtesy of: MOTH - Lake and River Ferries, by Frank A. Clapp, 1991)

Currently, a free "on demand" ferry service operated by Western Pacific Marine Ltd. on behalf of the Ministry of Transportation.Crossing Time - 3 minute crossing - one-way.

Capacity

Maximum load width 15' 6" or 4.72 Meters

Maximum length front tire to rear tire 90' or 27 Meters

Maximum Weight 109.04 Long Tons or 110,789.75 Kg but may be lowered by weather and/or river current.

Mobile Homes may have some difficulty loading from the highway side because of a 90-degree turn. Check before attempting.

Hours of Operation (Everyday)

24 Hour service for Emergency services personnel only.

For your safety ferry operations may stop in high winds.

The Glade Ferry is an 8 car cable ferry that connects the rural community of Glade to Highway 3A.

The 300 residents rely on this service, as there is no other direct access from Castlegar (24 Km) or Nelson (32 Km).

Vehicle Restrictions and Cautions

Vehicles without valid license plates will not be carried. Any unlicensed vehicles (e.g. dirt bikes and ATV's) must be transported on a licensed trailer or other licensed transport vehicle.

Vehicles, which cannot shut down their engines for the crossing, will not be carried.

Vehicles, which are dripping oil from their engine, transfer cases, axles or transmission, will not be carried.

The angle of the ferry ramp with the shore ramp may cause difficulties for low clearance vehicles and/or vehicles with low hanging mufflers or front spoilers. The operator assumes no risk for the same.

Pedestrians and Cyclists

Passengers and Cyclist are directed to wait and be mindful of the vehicle traffic loading and unloading the ferry. Bicycles should be walked on and off.

Children and Safety

Parents must accompany children. Bicycles must be walked on/off the ferry. Roller blades, skateboards and other forms of self propelled devices are not permitted to be used on the ramps to/from the ferry.Horses should be led on and off and the deck may be slippery for shoed horses. Clean up after your animal.

There is no smoking aboard the vessel.

Please follow directions of the Operator or Crew at all times while onboard the ferry.

Transport Regulations

Safety regulations prohibit the transport of gasoline and propane gas in excess of the following quantities:

Recreational Vehicles not more than two cylinders of propane safely secured to the vehicle in an upright position with valves closed and tagged, plus one only25-litre gasoline container, empty or full. Propane-powered refrigerators must have the thermostat control turned to the "off" position.

Automobiles not more than one 25-litre gasoline container, empty or full.

Motorboats (towed) not more than two portable 25-litre containers empty or full.

Oxy/Acetylene cylinders must be capped and secured in an upright position.

Certain items are subject to regulations and may not be carried. If you are in doubt about goods you want to transport, please inquire at your local terminal before travelling.