British Columbia Canada Blog

This year Pass Creek Fall Fair and Horse Show will be held on Sept 25th and 26th, 2010 at Castlegar, BC. It is one of the most spectacular fairs in Kootenay Rockies region of British Columbia. Some exciting features of the fair include: Family Carnival, Money in the Haystack, Rainbow the Clown and Children’s Bounce tent, Blacksmith demos, Old Fashioned Thrashing demo, Fall Fair Exhibits, BC’s Largest Vendor Village, Educational Displays, Farmer for a Day, Small Farm Animal Displays, Pony Rides and much more. 

 Plan a visit to Pass Creek Fair this fall with your children and experience the country living at its best. The Fair is not only entertaining but also very educational for kids. For more information, visit: Pass Creek Fall Fair

Whenever I book my ski trip, my focus is on least amount of travel time (who likes getting stuck on icy roads in winter or wait for connecting flights) and maximum time on the slopes. I am sure there are a lots of BC tourists out there who think and plan the same way. I have some good news for such BC Travellers planning their BC ski trips.

Delta Airlines will again this ski season (2009-2010) offer non-stop flights from selected US cities ( like Salt Lake City, Utah) to the Kootenay Rockies Region of British Columbia. 

For instance the short, two hour flight from Salt Lake City to Cranbrook (starting Dec, 19th) will provide easy access to a pair of southeastern B.C. ski and snowboard resorts, and will be available weekly on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Mar. 28, 2010.

(Information below courtesy: Delta Airlines)

How it Works (The Rules)
Origins and Destinations	Between Cranbrook (Canadian Rockies Intl.), BC and select U.S. cities
Purchase by	March 13, 2009
Advance Purchase and Minimum Stay	14 days; none
Other Rules	Tickets may be purchased at delta.com.

British Columbia is a perfect getaway for adventure seekers but your trip to BC will be incomplete without trying these exciting activities:

1. Go downhill Skiing in Whistler, Kicking Horse or Sun Peaks

2. Experience Whale Watching in Port Hardy 

3. Take a wine tour in the Okanagan Valley

4.  Discover back country trails of beautiful British Columbia through Horse Back Riding

5. Go Fishing in Northern BC around Peace River or Skeena river region

6. If you enjoy camping then British Columbia will not disappoint you. Camping is a great way to travel through BC and to save on accommodation.

7. Throughout British Columbia, tourists will find world class golf courses and it’s hard not to go Golfing on a beautiful summer day.

8. Visit Glacier National Park to experience steep rugged majestic mountains, wide variety of plant and animal life, and to get glimpse of wildlife like mountain caribou, mountain goat, elk etc. 

9. Enjoy a ride on BC ferries which operates 25 routes among the islands of British Columbia. 

10. Try White Water Rafting on one of the inland rivers like Thompson or Fraser River.

Related Links:

Explore British Columbia here

I am usually totally exhausted by Friday evening and looking for some good weekend getaway spots. Like most working class people, I can’t afford to go on luxurious vacations every weekend so I either relax at home or go to some lovely spot within driving distance from my home in the Okanagan. Check out the list of my top 10 getaway spots in British Columbia and take your pick for this weekend:

1. CHILLIWACK LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK: If you live in or around Vancouver area then one of the best spots to getaway for the weekend could be CHILLIWACK LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK which is roughly about two hours drive from Vancouver (about 150 km East). There are a lot of activities that can be enjoyed here like canoeing, kayaking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking etc. Not in the mood to be active, then just rent one of 146 front-country campsites and chill with a beer.  

2. BRIDGE RIVER VALLEY: History of British Columbia’s Gold Rush unfolds itself in BRIDGE RIVER VALLEY.The Bridge River Valley includes Bralorne, Gun Creek, Gun Lake, Tyax Lake, and Marshall Lake - with Gold Bridge being the main settlement. I enjoy visiting quaint little town-Gold Bridge which is surrounded by majestic mountains like Mt. Zola to the west and Mount Truax to the east and exotic Carpenter Lake while driving through Bridge River Valley. Gold Bridge is located about 1.5 hours west of Lillooet. The whole Bridge River Valley area is so self contained and peaceful that it is difficult to not feel tranquility here. The region enjoys a good selection of campgrounds and forestry recreation campsites providing overnight accommodation to visitors. You won’t have difficulty finding your own special back road in Bridge River Valley’s wilderness.

3. MOUNT ROBSON PEAK: Mount Robson peak is the highest peak in Canadian Rockies and is located in British Columbia’s oldest provincial park called MOUNT ROBSON provincial park. This provincial park is known for its exciting outdoor adventures. Did you know that Mount Robson Peak is called the ‘Monarch of the Rockies?’ Majestic Mount Robson Peak will surely fill you with awe and admiration.

4. FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS: Looking for a perfect place for a romantic getaway? Head to Fairmont Hot Springs which is Canada’s largest all-natural hot springs created millions of years ago. The water temperature of the springs range from 102 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit and is controlled by adding colder water from the snow and nearby creeks. I am sure the 10,000 square feet of pools bubbling with natural sweet-smelling mineral water will melt away your stress and you will return to work fully rejuvenated. You can also plan day trips from Fairmont Hot Springs to nearby towns like Panorama, Kimberley and Fernie.

5. DEASE LAKE and drive along STEWART-CASSIAR HIGHWAY (Hwy-37): The Stewart-Cassiar Highway runs nearly 500 kilometers (300 miles) through the vast wilderness of northwestern BC on its way to the Yukon. The drive through this highway is rough but scenic and you come across two renowned wilderness parks i.e. Mount Edziza and Spatsizi Plateau. Dease Lake is located west of the Stewart-Cassiar Highway at the junction to Telegraph Creek. It is a supply centre for the northwest region of British Columbia and a departure point for hiking and camping in the surrounding wilderness.

6. NAKIMU CAVES in GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: A limited access is available for visitors to these glorious limestone caves known as valley of hazards. The Nakimu caves lie between upper and lower Cougar Valley in the Selkirk Mountains, just west of Rogers Pass on the Trans-Canada Highway. Interested in visiting? Be prepared for a three to four hike to get to the entrance of the caves. I know it quite a hike but its totally worth it. For more detailed information, check out: Parks Canada

7. FORT STEELE: Just want to have a lazy weekend then consider rummaging through historical town of FORT STEELE which is located near Cranbrook on Highway 93/95 in the Eastern part of Kootenays. You can enoy daily re-enactments of the town’s past history and heritage year- round with special programming from mid-June to Labour Day.

8. WHISTLER MOUNTAINEER: If you are planning a weekend getaway to celebrate your anniversary of someone specials’ birthday then try WHISTLER MOUNTAINEER for a unique experience.

9. KETTLE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL: Why not go for a ride on KETTLE VALLEY TRAIL which is a 455 km long trail part of recreational trails collectively called the Spirit of 2010 Trail. You can start cycling from any of the following towns: Tulameen, Coalmont, Princeton, Summerland, Penticton, Naramata, Kaleden, Okanagan Falls or Osoyoos. Even if you are not in the mood for cycling these small little towns are quite picturesque and offer plenty of other activities to keep tourists  and locals entertained. For instance, my favourite is riding a scooter through Penticton and having a delicious lunch at Salties restaurant which is a cool waterfront joint. Get a spot on the patio to have the best meal experience.

10. OTHELLO TUNNELS: OTHELLO TUNNELS are located just off the Coquilla highway about 10 kms east of Hope. A short walk from the parking lot,through high canyon walls and above rushing water watres is a series of four tunnels and linking footpaths that make up the Othello Tunnels.

Have you found your favourite holiday spot in British Columbia? Why not, share it with our readers. You can win our next BC weekend getaway lucky draw.

If you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or soothing vacation then Radium Hot Springs is one of the hot spots you must consider. Radium Hot Springs, located in Kootenay National Park of Canada is eastern B.C.’s largest day spa. You can relax in this spacious mineral hot pool while chatting with friends and gazing up at the rock cliffs of Sinclair Canyon.

Radium Hot Springs is a perfect place to heal the soul and to let tension melt away. I love the breathtaking views of the rockies while soaking in mineral rich waters and trying to spot bighorn sheep that makes this canyon home. The heated winterpool entrances, nature trails, picnic areas and space to lounge makes Radium Hot springs a huge hit with the families. I personally enjoy ’Radium Hot Springs Poolside Cafe’ from where I pick snacks and souvenirs. I am sure your kids will enjoy icecreams and pizzas at this poolside cafe.

Radium Hot Springs operate all year around although timing vary from season to season.The facility is maintained to the highest public health and environmental standards. Don’t worry if you forget your towels or swimsuits as these are available for rent at the site.

 Related Links:
Kootenay Rockies
Radium Hot Springs

I did not think much of Kicking Horse until I visited it last week and found out all about it. It is certainly a great place for adventure sports.

Location: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is surrounded by lovely peaks and Canada’s most picturesque National Parks. The resort is located in Golden, British Columbia, just 1.5 hours west of Banff (145 kilometers), 2.5 hours west of Calgary (270 Kilometers) on the Trans-Canada highway,  6 hours from Edmonton (558 kilometers) and about 8.5 hours from Vancouver ( 711 kilometers) .

 Accommodation: There are many lodges and chalets on the mountain but many travellers prefer staying in Golden ( more hotel style properties). If you rent a condo on the hill, you can probably cook yourself and save on eating out everyday.

Activities: Some of the activities you can enjoy while in Kicking Horse include:

Summer Activities: Whitewater rafting on Kicking Horse River, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Golfing, Kayaking, Rock Climbing and Fishing.

Winter Activities:  Winter day time temperatures usually range from - 12 degree Celsius to 2 degree Celsius and sometimes dropping to -20/- 25 degree Celsius.  Heliskiing, Dog-sledding, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing, Ice climbing, Ice fishing etc. 

Dining: Try Kicking horse grill for contemporary Canadian cuisine.

Pictures of Kicking Horse:

The Golden Eagle Express Gondola

Kicking Horse  Village View

Advanced Ski runs - Kicking Horse usually has good snow even in the month of April

 Skiers on the top of the mountain- Getting ready to go down on a run

Snow covered peaks in Kicking Horse

View of the village from The Golden Eagle Express Gondola

Related Links
Kootenay Rockies
Skiing BC

I am back from my trip to Fernie and Kimberley and I must say that the trip has been a total rejuvenation of my senses.  It’s quite a drive if you plan to take a road trip from Kelowna to Kimberley but it’s totally worth it because of the amazing scenic beauty.  It takes about six hours to drive from Kelowna to Kimberley via Grandforks, Christina Lake, Castlegar, Nelson, Creston and Cranbrook. The nearest Airport from The Kimberley Alpine resort is Cranbrook.

Although Kimberley is a small ski resort compared to Fernie it offers fun and adventure to all ages. Winter Activities that can be enjoyed here include skiing, snowboarding and skating.  During the summer months mountain biking, hiking, fishing and golfing attracts tourists from all over the world.  In Kimberley I stayed at the Residence Inn, Marriott Trickle Creek which is a gold star property with all the amenities of a modern living.  I was totally impressed with this hotel as it is built with tall, lodge pole pine beams and river rock pillars.  One can relax in the outdoor heated pool, hot tubs or try their fully equipped fitness center. Visitors can also choose to unwind with a nice book in front of the fireplace with wonderful views of the Rocky Mountains and Ski slopes.  Stay at Residence inn includes a complimentary daily hot breakfast buffet which is really mouth watering and hits the spot.

Trickle Creek Golf resort is one of the top ten places to Golf in Canada as per Gold Digest.  After a long day of outdoor adventure one can enjoy a sumptuous meal at Kelsey’s which is located just next to Trickle Creek Marriott.  Other nice places to stay include Polaris Lodge which has some nice spacious units.  If you decide to stay on the slope side you can pick from a number of town homes or condos like Northstar and McGinty’s landing. On the lower mountain which is about 15 minutes walk from the ski runs, you can find reasonable lodging in Mountain Edge and Silver Birch. Visit Kimberley for a wonderful Purcell mountains experience.

Related Links:
Kootenay Rockies
Fernie Hotels
British Columbia Skiing

I found a little treasure to share with you!  It is called An Inn for Two, and that is exactly what it is, a romantic getaway for two.   It’s a place off the beaten path, far from the hustle of everyday life.  A calming place that offers peace and quiet and privacy.  The Inn for two is tucked away in the gorgeous valley of the West Kootenay’s Arrow Lake, not far from the quaint little town of
Fauquier, British Columbia.  If you are coming from Kelowna or Vernon area, you get to experience the Needles Ferry that crosses the Arrow Lake to get you to your destination.  

The view from the private deck of the log faced cabin is spectacular.  It overlooks Arrow Lake and the Monashee Mountains. Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.  Each cabin has a gas fireplace, a large soaker tub, a stereo, a kitchenette and dining table.  The queen sized bed overlooks the lake and is covered with DOWN filled duvets and fluffy pillows to help you get a good night sleep.

We just went for one night, but you could spend a few days exploring the area.  Nakusp, 55km north of Fauquier, boast shops, culture and recreation. This bustling town is known for its scenic beauty and rich history.  There are many fine 9 hole golf courses that surround Fauquier.  Enjoy relaxing in steaming mineral waters at the geothermal hot springs in Nakusp.  Or, you can go for walks and hikes that start just outside your cabin.  I enjoyed it so much, I will definitely be back!

One of the advantages of working with a travel agency is that you get to travel to different places and next week I am off to Fernie, Kimberly and Panorama.  I am looking forward to my trip and will share my experience with all the readers of this blog. My friends from work who have been to Fernie before are really excited to visit this beautiful place again. Keep reading and I will let you know what I think about it.

Check Out:

Fernie Skiing
Fernie Resorts and Lodges
Kootenay Rockies

If you enjoy the outdoors, look for adventure and appreciate nature then
British Columbia is a perfect holiday destination for you!  The top 3 adventure activities in BC include Whale Watching, Kayaking and White Water Rafting.

Whale Watching:  Vancouver Island is home to some of BC’s best wildlife viewing.  Take in a whale watching tour that leaves from Tofino, Uculetet or Victoria.

Kayaking/Canoeing:  What better way to spend a holiday than on the water, kayaking in and out of untouched bays.   You will be surprised at how much wildlife you will see on this adventure.

White Water Rafting:  If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, than this is for you.   Some of the best white water rafting in BC can be found in the Kootenay Rocky Region.  Check out the tours departing from the town of Golden.

Plan a trip and experience all three adventures.  You will be sure to write home about this BC holiday!