Our Mission
Kootenay Rideshare is a project of the West Kootenay EcoSociety, designed to minimize the impacts of travel across the Kootenay region and beyond. By making it easy to share rides, we help residents reduce their transportation costs while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Ridesharing replaces single-occupancy vehicle trips with shared journeys. According to the Canadian Automobile Association, the per-kilometre cost of driving can be substantial — sharing a ride lets drivers and passengers split those expenses while building community connections.
Ridesharing across the Kootenay region offers a practical way to reduce both travel costs and environmental impact. By connecting drivers with passengers heading in the same direction, this community-driven system helps fill empty seats and cut down on the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. The result is fewer greenhouse gas emissions per journey and meaningful savings for everyone involved. Beyond the financial and ecological benefits, sharing a ride creates opportunities for connection among neighbours and travellers alike. Whether commuting between towns or heading out for a longer trip, participants contribute to a more sustainable and social way of getting around the Kootenays.
Safety and courtesy are at the heart of a positive ridesharing experience. Both drivers and passengers are encouraged to communicate clearly about pickup locations, timing, and any special needs before the trip begins. Respecting each other’s space, keeping vehicles clean, and agreeing on cost-sharing arrangements in advance help ensure smooth journeys. Pets, luggage, and stops along the route should be discussed openly to avoid surprises. Following basic etiquette not only makes each ride more pleasant but also builds trust within the community. When everyone treats the experience with mutual respect, the rideshare network grows stronger and more reliable for all users.
For those new to ridesharing, getting started is straightforward and welcoming. Creating a profile and posting or searching for rides takes only a few minutes, and the platform is designed to be accessible to users of all ages, including seniors who may benefit from affordable transportation options. The project is rooted in regional transit goals and community development, aiming to complement existing services across the Kootenays. By participating, residents help foster a culture of sharing that reduces the pressure on parking, road infrastructure, and personal budgets. Every ride shared is a small but meaningful step toward a more connected, sustainable region.
What We Offer
- Long Distance Journeys — trips to Vancouver, Calgary, the Okanagan, and beyond.
- Local Rides — getting around within the Kootenay region.
- Frequent & Commuter Trips — regular carpooling for work or recurring travel.
- Rides for pets and goods — not just people; help transport items or animals.
- Senior-focused resources — dedicated support for older adults seeking or offering rides.
Environmental Impact
Every shared ride means fewer cars on the road. A typical passenger vehicle emits roughly 2.3 kg of CO₂ per litre of gasoline burned. By filling empty seats on trips that are already happening, ridesharing directly reduces per-person emissions — often cutting the carbon footprint of a journey in half or more.
Since launching in 2013, Kootenay Rideshare has supported thousands of shared trips across the region.
Who's Behind the Site
Kootenay Rideshare is operated as a volunteer-run initiative of the West Kootenay EcoSociety, with support from the Healthy Community Society and Columbia Basin Trust. The site was developed by RobFahieProductions.com.
The information you provide on Kootenay Rideshare will not be sold or shared with anyone. Please review our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy for full details.
Support the Project
Kootenay Rideshare is free to use and relies on community goodwill. If you find the service valuable, consider kicking down $2 for the site to help keep it running.