Find your fun! - SUMMER SIZZLE Adventure galore in Rossland - Pacific Coastal Airlines
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Inflight
Magazine for
Pacific Coastal
Airlines
Find your
fun!
Penticton has something
for everyone
SUMMER SIZZLE
Adventure galore
in Rossland
GO NORTH!
Five must-see attractions
in Northern BC
May/June | Volume 15 | Number 3
Your
ED HANDJA
& SHELLEY MCKAY
Personal Real Estate Corporation
BC Oceanfront Real Estate Team
Personal Real Estate Corporation
Specializing in Unique Coastal Real Estate in British Columbia
Ed 250.287.0011 • Shelley 250.830.4435
Office 250.286.3293 Toll Free 1.888.286.1932
edhandja@bcoceanfront.com
Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com
shelleymckay@bcoceanfront.com
Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com
Loughborough Inlet Acreages: Unique opportunity to acquire one, two or three large coastal acreages in the south central coast region of BC, offering a true
west coast wilderness plus an investment in timber. Adjoining, combined 398 acres, with over 10,000ft of oceanfront. Each acreage has a substantial creek
flowing through it. $$990,000 - $1,280,000
Nootka Sound Oceanfront: Two amazing 9.83 acre Quatsino Sound Oceanfront Acreage: 106 acres in Dent Island Acreage: 80.7 acres on Dent Island,
properties, on the SE tip of Nootka Island. Pebble two separate titles. 1300+ft of low-bank easy access east end of Cordero Channel. Encompasses the entire
beach, magnificent ocean views. Abundant wildlife, south-facing oceanfront, nicely protected, with a small southern and western shorelines plus well-protected
including whales rubbing on the pebble beach out front, creek running through the property. There is forest Mermaid Bay on the SE end of the island. Property is
sealions, seals, eagles and various seabirds. Renowned service road access and zoning permits subdivision. fully forested in healthy second growth. Phenomenal
and popular region for both fishing and kayaking. Well known NW Vancouver Island region that provides active tidal water area in the Discovery Islands. Close
Lot 3: $295,000 Lot 4: $305,0000 excellent fishing and recreation. $380,000 to BC mainland and Bute Inlet. $1,200,000
Hot Springs Cove: West coast Vancouver Island. Cortes Island Oceanfront Acreage: 10.55 Cortes Island Oceanfront: Exceptional 7 acre property
2 oceanfront acreages, 2.28 – 2.67 acres, share in undeveloped acres in Gorge Harbour with approx. with approx. 1200ft of easy access shoreline that includes
90 acre common property. 19 nautical miles NW of 545ft shoreline. Fully forested and topographically granite outcrops and two small bays. Sunny, south-west
Tofino. Fully forested lots, diverse shorelines. Hot diverse acreage with access from Gorge Harbour exposure, amazing views and excellent privacy yet is
Springs Oceanside is a well-established recreational Rd. The property steps down moderately to steep in just minutes from the ferry service in Whaletown Bay.
community next door to the natural hot springs of many locations, with small benches and rock outcrops Electrical service on the property, drilled well and licensed
Maquinna Provincial Park. Water access only. throughout. Shared driveway leads to the oceanfront. spring water. $1,400,000
$99,750 - $109,000 $515,000
Quadra Island Oceanfront: Quadra Estates is a beautiful island oasis on 77.27 acres with secluded beachfront, pastoral meadows, forest, ravine and high bank
oceanfront. In 7 titles, with services. Modern 2461sqft home, yurt and garden areas. Create an island sanctuary in this peaceful, private location just minutes from the
amenities of Quadra Island. $4,288,000
w w w. b c o c e a n f r o n t . c o m
Cover: Mountain biking in Penticton.
CONTENTS
Features Departments
10 SEEKING SOLACE 20 GO NORTH! 4 UP FRONT
Kayaking BC's coastal waters Five must-see attractions President’s Message
13 FIND YOUR FUN 6 MEET A PCA EMPLOYEE
23 INDIGENOUS ADVENTURES
Penticton has it all
Visit Campbell River 6 AROUND BC
18 SUMMER SIZZLES News from Pacific Coastal
Adventures galore in Rossland 24 CRUSOE OF LONESOME LAKE Airlines' destinations
An area rich in history
Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto, psakamoto@blackpress.ca - 250.480.3204 Advertising • Patty Doering, pdoering@vicnews.com - 250.480.3244 • Ruby Della Siega, ruby@mondaymag.com - 250.480.3222
Managing Editor Susan Lundy, lundys@shaw.ca • Natasha Griffiths, natasha.griffiths@northislandgazette.com - 250.902.8040
Creative Director Lily Chan | Graphic Design Janice Marshall, Michelle Gjerde • Annemarie Rindt, arindt@blackpress.ca - 250.480.3244 • Mario Gedicke, mario.gedicke@blackpress.ca - 250.891.5627
Published by Black Press | www.blackpress.ca • 818 Broughton Street , Victoria, BC V8W 1E4
SOAR magazine is published six times per year and is distributed on all Pacific Coastal Airlines flights. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher
or Pacific Coastal Airlines. The contents of SOAR magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.
Black Press Media Brand Assets Guide
INTERNAL DOCUMENT Version 1.0 - May 2018
Full Service
Commercial
Real Estate
• Retail, Office &
Warehouse
• Sales & Leasing
• Business Asset Sales
• Property Management
Private balcony overlooking Long Lake
Free continental breakfast • Senior rates • Pet friendly
• Financial Consultation Private balcony overlooking Long Lake
Free www.innonlonglake.com
continental breakfast • Senior rates • Pet friendly
• New Home
Construction & Sales
• Residential Sales
250-381-2265
www.naivictoria.ca
https://www.naivictoria.ca www.innonlonglake.com
May/June 2021 | 3 | pacificcoastal.com
LOOKING
AHEAD
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
A
s we start to see progress and ing air service to the Trail Regional Airport.
improvements with the COVID-19 Although we were unable to have in-person
Immunization Plan, the travel industry, celebrations—as we have done in previous
unfortunately, continues to face many years—we continue to acknowledge these
challenges and will continue to see many chal- anniversaries virtually on our website and
lenges for quite some time. on social media.
Throughout the year, Provincial Health For many, our scheduled air services
Orders have enforced extended travel link communities together and our teams
restrictions that have forced us to adjust our across the province are working hard to
schedule accordingly. Following all provin- provide safe, reliable and essential travel for
cial guidelines, we remain committed to our those who need it most. We continue to
communities, and our air service continues provide service to 16 communities in British
to help the movement of essential service Columbia and we are optimistic that we will
workers, passengers travelling for medical start to see positive changes come the sum-
appointments, charter services and time- mer months. We cannot wait to welcome
sensitive cargo transportation. everyone back on board again, and in the
During these times, it has been great to meantime—stay safe and stay healthy.
see the support system of our communities
and the aviation industry. We were recently
excited to celebrate 15 years of provid-
Quentin Smith
May/June 2021 | 4 | pacificcoastal.com
Celebrating 15 years of
PCA service to Trail
P
acific Coastal Airlines proudly celebrated 15 years of TRAIL COFFEE CO.
service to the Trail Regional Airport on Tuesday, April 6. A local cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and freshly roasted
“We’ve enjoyed serving the residents of the coffee. Hand-roasted, hand-blended and hand-packaged,
West Kootenay region over the past 15 years products created by the Trail Coffee Co. team lead to a per-
and look forward to many more to come,” says Pacific fect cup of joe.
Coastal’s Vice President of Commercial Services Johnathan
Richardson. “We’re proud to be part of the community.” COLUMBIA RIVER SKYWALK
PCA currently operates non-stop flights between This bridge is part of the Trans Canada Trail Society’s Great
Vancouver South Terminal Airport and Trail Regional Air- Trail and is bike, stroller, scooter and wheelchair friendly.
port six days a week. To celebrate its 15-year anniversary Once across, continue along the banks of the Columbia River
in Trail, the airline shared a selection of local places for to the Victoria Street Bridge and complete this quick and
visitors to check out the next time they land in this West easy river walk loop.
Kootenay town.
RED RESORT
COLUMBIA GARDENS VINEYARD AND Trail is just minutes from world-class skiing at Red
WINERY Resort in Rossland BC. Outdoor lovers will also find a vast
Columbia Gardens Vineyard and Winery Estate is network of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and mountain
nestled in the heart of the Columbia Gardens Valley near biking trails in the area.
the Trail Regional Airport. Check out the Burl tasting room
COMMITTED TO ENSURING A SAFE JOURNEY
that features all their wines and thoughtful gifts.
Pacific Coastal Airlines has adopted additional safety mea-
TRAIL BEER REFINERY sures to ensure the health and wellbeing of staff and custom-
With a name that reflects Trail’s historic connection to ers. The measures include enhanced aircraft sanitation prac-
mining, refining and smelting, this brewery has a strong tices, physical distancing at airport facilities, reduced contact
community focus and a great selection of craft beer. You points, and the requirement for all customers to travel with a
can find Trail Beer Refinery downtown on Bay Avenue. face mask and answer health check questions before boarding.
Learn more about the additional safety measures online.
May/June 2021 | 5 | pacificcoastal.com
MEET A AROUND BC
PACIFIC COASTAL
EMPLOYEE: Malahat Skywalk set open
BAL
this July
MALAHAT: Construction is well Nation to come. We look forward to
underway on the Malahat Skywalk. telling the stories of our people and
Expected to be completed July, welcoming the visitors to our com-
this world-class tourism experience munity through the Malahat Skywalk
will feature an elevated wooden experience.”
pathway constructed through an
Organ Donor
Arbutus forest leading to a gentle,
accessible spiral ramp climbing to a
40-metre-high sightseeing lookout,
where visitors will enjoy magnificent
views of the Finlayson Arm and
run opens
distant coastal mountains.
The project will also see the con-
for mountain
struction of a welcome centre, retail
stores and a coffee shop. bikers
“People are really beginning to ex- By Travis Paterson /
press interest in the project now that westcoasttraveller.com
Position: they see the columns being raised,” SIDNEY: As a black diamond run,
Customer Service Supervisor says Ken Bailey, general manager the newly redesigned section of
Location: of the approximately $15-million Organ Donor trail at Hartland-Mount
Vancouver Airport Operations project. “We hope the community Work mountain biking park is not for
Time with PASCO: will be proud of it when it’s com- everyone.
Joined the company in 2001 pleted and will want to share it with But the lineups of bikers at the
the world." top of Organ Donor show just how
Job description: Responsible for Inspired by similar elevated forest popular the trail is, and how badly
providing supervision, direction walks in Europe, the elevated wood- needed it is at Mount Work, located
and support to all customer service en pathway is intended to bring a on the Saanich Peninsula, just out-
agents at the Vancouver base. This world-class tourism experience to side Victoria. (And yes, the mountain
includes passenger check-in, training Southern Vancouver Island. bike trails have extreme names,
and operations planning. A.Spire by Nature, a company led ranging from off-colour humour,
by two of the founding partners in such as Birth Control, Lumpy Pants
Where were you born and where the successful Sea to Sky Gondola and Who’s Your Daddy, to the more
did you grow up? near Squamish, and the Malahat Na- subtle, such as Small Craft Warning
I was born in Murrayville in Langley tion have partnered in the Malahat and Bubble Wrap.)
and raised in Vancouver. I now live Skywalk project, which will combine “Now that it’s open, everyone is
with my husband in Pitt Meadows. nature-based tourism with a cultural enjoying it and sharing that stoke
What do you like best about this tourism experience. around the community,” says Alon
job? About 25 workers from Kinsol, a Soraya, vice president of the South
My coworkers are awesome. They are local contracting company in Bam- Island Mountain Biking Society.
truly like family. berton, are building the structure. What’s significant about Organ
Upon announcing the project, Donor—which has long existed but
What is your favourite thing to do George Harry Jr., a councillor with has had a significant reroute with
in your city/town? the Malahat Nation, said the First a new design—is that this style of
I love spending time with my friends Nation is proud to partner on the “flowy” trail with built-up jump-style
and family, checking out local winer- Malahat Skywalk project. features has not been allowed in
ies and breweries and exploring my “Not only is it a tourism experi- Mount Work Regional Park until now.
own backyard. ence that speaks to sustainability In the past, there were legal issues
Anything else you’d like to share? and the connection to our land, but that limited the building of features
I’m looking forward to many more it will also provide opportunities for such as jumps and drops, not just in
years with PASCO! many generations of the Malahat Greater Victoria but across BC. How-
May/June 2021 | 6 | pacificcoastal.com
Malahat Skywalk set to open this summer.
“Now that it’s open, everyone however, it’s mostly unsanctioned, There are also “rollable” options next to
the bigger jumps, gaps and drops, so
and the CRD will often step in to close
is enjoying it and sharing trails. moms and dads can go easy while the
that stoke around the com- Once South Island Mountain Bik- kids go big.
ing Society had permission this past Learn more, including trail map and
munity." summer, longtime volunteer and ratings, at simbs.com/trails
local mountain biker Jesse Jubinville
Rare white ‘spirit
couldn’t wait to start building. The
ever, in the past decade trail-building work began last September with
moose’ spotted
elsewhere has undergone a boom more than 1,000 volunteer hours in
and has put places such as Cum- total and officially opened on January
berland on the map and Whistler as 17.
one of the province’s fastest-growing
mountain biking destinations.
“Hartland for years hasn’t had a
progressive-style trail and has been
in Cariboo
Now, the stewards who oversee left behind in comparison to other By Greg Sabatino
trail building at Mount Work are [parks], which have flowy, fun trails westcoasttraveller.com
working to catch up. In the spring, with drops and jumps. When I set WLLIAMS LAKE: A Williams Lake
the South Island Mountain Biking out to build something, I wanted resident was considering buying a lot-
Society signed a licence agreement something for the community that tery ticket after stumbling across a rare,
with the Capital Regional District, the all levels of riders can have fun on,” white moose while out for a scenic drive.
result of several years of negotiations Jubinville says. “People have always told me I’m
between CRD staff and a number of So while the trail is fast, it is a bit lucky, but this one kind of trumps them
the society’s board directors. wider than the usual single track, and all,” says Hattie Deyo, who managed to
"It supports us to do work like this it covers the craggy roots and rocks capture a video and photographs from
and continue improving the park,” that make Hartland “technical” and the encounter on a back road in the
Soraya said. difficult, but fun. It also has opportu- Cariboo outside Williams Lake.
There’s a long history of trail nities for riders to slow down where “It was with its mom, which was a
building, including recent work; other black diamond trails don’t. brown moose. I didn’t know what it was
May/June 2021 | 7 | pacificcoastal.com
AROUND BC
Kangaroo Creek Farm in Kelowna.
KANGAROO CREEK FARM/FACEBOOK
at first. I thought it was a cow with
long legs.” Kelowna As an outdoor venue big enough
to accommodate physical distanc-
kangaroo farm
Growing up in a rural home, ing, it offers a COVID-friendly way to
Deyo says, she’s heard of white enjoy being outside while still having
moose, also called spirit moose, social interactions safely, says owner
sightings before, but never imag-
ined she’d witness one first hand.
jumps back into Caroline MacPherson.
“You can get outside, enjoy the
“It was pretty impactful,” she says.
“And one in a million.” action sunshine and see some animals” she
says. “We just ask that people stay six
After Deyo parked her vehicle, By Twila Amator feet apart from others and to stay in
the mother of the white moose westcoasttraveller.com your bubble.”
calf carried on, but the calf stayed KELOWNA: Kelowna’s Kangaroo This year, the community can
behind. Creek Farm is back up and running. expect see the addition of a dog
“It didn’t go anywhere,” she says. The popular family farm—which therapy park.
“It was really cool and stood there counts kangaroos and capybaras “It’s not really a dog park in the
for about 10 minutes…then it just among its animal residents—was set
way people might expect, where you
casually strolled away.” to welcome guests back as of April 29.
take your dogs to the park. This is a
Cariboo Chilcotin Zone Conser- Kangaroo Creek Farm features a wide
space that’s already populated with
vation Officer Service Sgt. Jeff Tyre array of animals in natural surroundings.
dogs,” she says.
said in his roughly 14-year career These include red kangaroos, common
MacPherson said the therapy dog
he’s never come across a white wallaroos and Bennett wallabies, as well
park’s goal is to provide an additional
moose. as dama wallabies, emu, peacocks, fancy
space for visitors with young children
“It’s definitely unique,” he says. chickens, goats, parrots, a baby albino
“You’ll only ever see one like that in wallaby, baby kangaroos and potbellied so they can also have the experi-
your lifetime.” pigs. There’s even a capybara, the world’s ence of interacting and playing with
largest rodent, which can weigh more animals at Kangaroo Creek Farm.
than 150 pounds! Plan your visit at kangaroocreek-
farm.com.
May/June 2021 | 8 | pacificcoastal.com
Arts | Culture | Heritage
U’mista Cultural Centre
Alert Bay Visitor Centre
and Art Gallery
Alert Bay Museum
Traditional Dance performances
in the Big House
World’s Tallest Totem Pole
‘Namgis Burial Ground
with stand of totems
The Art Loft
Activities
Whale watching
Fishing, Nature Trails
Traditional Canoes
Tennis Courts, Skate Park
Kayaking
Cultural Playground
Health
Hospital and Health Centre
Personal Care Services
Dentist office
Business
Accommodations -
Hotels, B&Bs Cabins
Campground
Gas Station
Grocery store | Pharmacy
Restaurants | Pubs
Liquor Store | Post Office
Churches | Banking | Hair Salon
For general inquiries
and cultural planning:
Alert Bay Visitor Centre
(250) 974-5024
Fax: (250) 974-5026
E-mail: info@alertbay.ca
www.alertbay.ca
U’mista Cultural Centre For events and cultural activities check here
https://www.facebook.com/Umista.Cultural.Society/
(250) 974-5403 or 1-800-690-8222 www.umista.ca
May/June 2021 | 9 | pacificcoastal.com
VANCOUVER ISLAND NORTH
Seeking
Solace
Kayaking in BC’s coastal waters
By Linda Doctoroff
Photos by Tom Perry / tomperryphotographycom
S
woosh…dip, swoosh…dip, An eerie feeling echoes through me: Compton Island, on Mamalilikulla-
swoosh…dip and smack! 100 years later, we are living with the Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em Band First Nation
Less than 50 metres from COVID-19 pandemic. territory. They have given permis-
our kayaks, the humpback’s As we leave this historic village, we sion to the company to use their
fluke whacks the water as it dives deep spot a pod of resident orcas about land. We step off the boat onto the
searching for krill. 200 metres from us. JD, the owner of midden beach. I imagine how, for
Last summer, I left the isolating the company, cuts the motor. thousands of years, Indigenous peo-
effects of these strange pandemic “There’s A23 and A25,” he says. ple have lived here, fishing, farming
times to embrace another form of “They’ve been active in this area lately, clams and hunting. The shells are
isolation: to seek solace in nature hungry for salmon.” the remains of their cultural heri-
and to lose myself in a remote ma- He drops a hydrophone in the tage and their present-day life.
rine environment. I signed up with ocean; we listen to the orcas sing un- The first morning, after a hearty
Orca Dreams to kayak in a marine derwater. They are skilled communica- breakfast of buckwheat pancakes,
wilderness area near the Brough- tors, making sounds for orientation, fresh fruit and bacon, we set out
ton Archipelago, nestled between navigation and feeding. in our kayaks to Blackfish Sound, a
Vancouver Island and the BC main- As the boat approaches our base wide channel known for feeding
land. I decided to travel solo on camp, I am struck by the haunting humpback whales. Humpbacks
this trip. I often prefer it that way. beauty of the wilderness. A thick for- migrate, annually, moving from
I’m more open to meeting others est of western red cedar, Sitka spruce their summer feeding grounds in
and experiencing nature. and hemlock cover the island. The the high latitudes to warmer winter
Base camp is a half-hour boat treetops sway gently in the wind as breeding waters closer to the equa-
ride from Telegraph Cove. While if they are welcoming us with a slow tor.
waiting for the water taxi, I read dance. I am humbled by the natural Perched high on a bare branch
about the 1918 Spanish flu pan- beauty and the history of the area. in the thickly treed shoreline, a bald
demic that hit this tiny outpost. The campsite is located on small eagle surveys the scene. It’s watch-
May/June 2021 | 10 | pacificcoastal.comThe treetops sway gently in the
wind as if they are welcoming
us with a slow dance. I am
humbled by the natural beauty
and the history of the area.
back to our campsite. As we approach
Blackfish Sound, there’s action ahead.
Tom excitedly says, “I’ve been
here seven weeks and haven’t seen
anything like this!” He quickly grabs
his camera and starts taking photos.
“I won’t have another chance like this,”
he exclaims.
Over the UHF radio, we hear the
ing a seal feast on a salmon, patiently (or starfish) spread out on a barnacled crackling voice of a captain in another
waiting to swoop down and scavenge rock on the shoreline. It’s good to see boat shout, “This is craziness!”
any leftovers. I continue paddling and they are returning after several years’ We see several humpbacks blowing
soon a sea lion joins me, swimming absence, owing to the sea star wasting and gliding along the ocean, while
a few metres away. I keep pace with disease. a pod of surfing orcas and dolphins
it until it dips down into the ocean. “Forty species of sea stars have cavort between them in the shimmer-
I paddle to the middle of the sound been affected by this disease,” JD says, ing water. This time the humpbacks
and pause to watch two humpbacks. as we glide by. We stop at a small are making different sounds from
They are circling around me, dipping, island, and, from our kayaks, we pick what we’ve heard before. Their sounds
blowing and slapping their flukes sea asparagus that later appears in our are coming from deep within them,
before diving down. Am I intruding on salad at dinner that night. almost moaning, making an eerie-
their space? One late, starless evening, we sounding howl. As we leave the scene
When I return to the campsite, stand on the midden beach and and return to camp, a flock of red-
dinner is almost ready. Amy, our cook, throw stones in the water. We watch necked phalaropes skim just above
sure knows her way around a kitchen. the bioluminescence—light gener- the water’s surface.
She has prepared pickled bull kelp, ated chemically by organisms—as I went on this kayaking trip to lose
which she harvested that morning we swish sticks back and forth in the myself in nature during these strange
in the inlet. We nibble on the bright ocean. It’s as if fireflies are swimming pandemic times; I wanted to be in the
mustard-coloured delicacy while she underwater. richness of a remote marine environ-
puts the finishing touches on din- Another evening after dinner, we ment. But I came away with much
ner. She is preparing pierogies from hike the kilometre-long trail to Sunset more: I gained a new appreciation of
scratch, a recipe passed down from Beach, stopping along the way to pick the wildlife so abundant in this area.
her husband’s grandmother, who ripe huckleberries. I arrive just in time Indeed, it was a great getaway dur-
came from the Ukraine. Grandma to catch the sun blanketing across a ing a pandemic.
made sure Amy was married before billowy, cloudy sky as it dips into the
turning over her recipe. I bite into ocean, forming a pattern of shooting Kayaking companies
the potato–cheddar cheese pierogi, rays of gold. An orange glow covers North Island Kayak: kayakbc.ca
topped with fried onions and a dollop the sea. When we return to camp, JD Orca Dreams: orcadreams.com
of sour cream; I’m in heaven. has just caught a 24-pound Chinook Spirit of the West: kayakingtours.com
The next morning, we go out on salmon.
Tensing, a 38-year-old former US Naval “They like to bite in the early eve-
whaleboat, and watch a pod of Dall’s ning,” he says, as he’s filleting the fish
porpoise skim along the shoreline, on the beach, and then preparing it in
bobbing up and down in perfect brine to be smoked the next day.
GETTING THERE
single formation, like large bubbles On our last day, the sun shining, we
dribbling. head north on Tenzing. JD’s pulling a Flying: Fly to Port Hardy on
They are the fastest cetacean on double kayak at the stern of the boat. Vancouver Island and take a taxi
to Telegraph Cove.
the planet, swimming up to 56 kilo- Tom, our kayaking guide and me are
Driving: Take Hwy 19 north on
metres per hour,” JD offers. dropped off in the heart of Brough- Vancouver Island to Telegraph Cove.
Another day, I see a purple sea star ton Archipelago Marine Park to kayak
May/June 2021 | 11 | pacificcoastal.comPENTICTON
Photos courtesy Visit Penticton.
Find your fun
Penticton has it all
P
enticton, located in British (situated on the shores of Okana-
Columbia’s South Okana- gan Lake) to charming motels,
gan, is ripe for rediscovery which line both Okanagan Lake,
this summer. Boasting a Skaha Lake and Main Street,
scenic locale, nestled between two and quaint B&Bs. Or, visit nearby
lakes (Okanagan and Skaha), this Naramata and stay at the historic
beautiful town welcomes visitors Naramata Inn which reopened
(when the time is right) with an under new ownership in 2020.
array of thrilling outdoor adventures,
Eat & Drink
delicious culinary offerings and
Whether you’re looking for
family-friendly activities.
a sumptuous wine-paired meal
Even better, Penticton was
or more casual fare, Penticton
added to Pacific Coastal Airline’s
brings a lot to the table.
many BC destinations earlier
Notable local spots include:
this year, and now travellers can
Elma Restaurant, offering
fly direct from Vancouver to this
traditional Turkish cuisine in an
Okanagan hot spot.
upscale lakeside setting; the
Where to stay Hooded Merganser (located at
Penticton offers a variety of the Penticton Lakeside Resort),
accommodation options, from which grows some of its own
the Penticton Lakeside Resort food in its garden and incorpo-
May/June 2021 | 13 | pacificcoastal.comMay/June 2021 | 14 | pacificcoastal.com
Boasting a scenic locale, Grape Escapes Wine Tours, with six entry to the market is restricted to 50
unique tour options all over the South customers at a time, with pedestrian traf-
nestled between two lakes, Okanagan; Sagebrush Tours (wine and fic flowing one-way.
this beautiful town welcomes nature excursions); and Grape Friends Outdoor Adventuring
Lounge and Tours.
visitors with an array of thrill- Beer fans can enjoy seven local craft
Epic “fuel-free” adventures await,
including hiking and biking on the Kettle
ing outdoor adventures, breweries (soon to be eight!), including Valley Rail Trail, or exploring an additional
Bad Tattoo, Barley Mill Brew Pub, Cannery
delicious culinary offerings and Brewing, Highway 97, Neighbourhood
350-plus kilometres of trail networks (for
challenging yourself or simply soaking up
family-friendly activities. Brewing, Slackwater Brewing and Tin stunning views), floating a river channel,
Whistle Brewing. Check out the Penticton or partaking in water sports on the two
rates those greens and produce into the Ale Trail for full details. lakes with kayak and paddleboard rentals.
menu; The Restaurant at Poplar Grove Plus, don’t miss out on great cider- To help facilitate a day of floating the
Winery with its farm-fresh menu and ies—featuring cider made with delicious channel (during summer months), local
incredible views overlooking the city; Okanagan fruit—such as La Petite Abeille business Coyote Cruises offers inner-
and, for amazing coffee and breakfast, and Creek & Gully. tube rentals and shuttle transport back
The Bench Market and Wayne & Freda Bonus: In Penticton, it’s legal to have to the starting point, so you can enjoy a
are both popular choices. In addition, open alcohol at designated local beaches leisurely ride down the seven-kilometer-
branching out from its farmers’-market (from mid-May to mid-October), so grab long channel that connects Okanagan
start, local favourite Joy Road Catering a meal-to-go from your favourite res- Lake to Skaha Lake. Pro tip: Remember to
has opened a pop- up bake shop down- taurant, pick up a bottle of wine or craft bring sunscreen.
town. beer and raise a glass with your bubble at Recreation businesses offer a plethora
Wine aficionados can explore more Skaha or Okanagan Lake. of outdoor activity options, including
than 80 wineries within a 20-minute drive On Saturdays, the weekly downtown Hoodoo Adventures, which recently
of Penticton. Many are accepting reserva- Farmers Market is a must-do. Here you’ll launched a new outpost, Hoodoo By The
tions for tastings this year, so make sure find fresh local fruits and vegetables, Lake, for watercraft rentals. It has also
you plan ahead. Local companies offering baked goods and more. This year, in order started offering ebike rentals, in addition
tours include: to adhere to social distancing protocols, to paddle boarding, kayaking and moun-
May/June 2021 | 15 | pacificcoastal.comtain biking experiences. Freedom Bike Enjoy a splashy afternoon at the
Shop also offers ebike rentals, or check Penticton Wibit (operated by Splash
out Epic Cycling for a tailored experi- BC)—a floating water park geared
ence involving custom-guided rides to kids, located on the west end of
and hikes, along with ebiking rentals Okanagan Beach, near downtown.
and tours. And people of all ages can beat
For rock climbing enthusiasts, Skaha the heat with the best ice cream in
Rock Adventures offers local climbing town: check out The Peach (on the
tours to all levels of skill. The climbing beach, with 28 different milkshake
season typically runs from mid-March flavours!), Lickity Splitz or Tickleber-
to mid-October. ry’s (with several locations, including
If you’re looking for a more relaxed two at Skaha Lake Park Beach, as well
experience, rent a paddleboard or as a brand-new shop downtown).
book a lesson with Sun N’ Sup in For more trip planning inspiration,
Naramata. check out visitpenticton.com and
follow on social media: Instagram: @
Family Fun visitpenticton
LocoLanding Adventure Park (open Facebook: facebook.com/visitpent-
May to September) offers the ultimate icton
in family fun and entertainment, with #VisitPenticton
activities for all ages (as young as COVID Safety Information: https://
18 months). Make a day of it on the www.visitpenticton.com/know-
go-karts, mini-golf, high-level ropes before-you-go/
course, water-spraying bumper boats,
monkey motion, spider mountain, rock
climbing and more.
May/June 2021 | 16 | pacificcoastal.comSlow down and see more!
Enjoy Fuel Freedom as
you explore Penticton by
foot, pedal or paddle.
visitpenticton.com
@visitpenticton | #visitpenticton
May/June 2021 | 17 | pacificcoastal.comROSSLAND
Summer sizzles
in Rossland
This mountain town offers great outdoor and
culinary adventures
Story and photos by Lucas Aykroyd
I
t’s a gorgeous, warm evening as I outside Rossland, I enjoy the aura of
hike toward the 1,591-metre sum- mental and physical freedom. The
mit of Red Mountain in British Co- lobby design includes ski lift chairs,
lumbia’s West Kootenays. I glance a chess set and towering windows.
to my right. About 30 feet down a steep My fourth-floor room features a deep
slope, I spot a young, 250-pound black soaker tub and a glass-encased walk-
bear in the foliage, looking up at me. in shower, in addition to fabulous
He is perfectly calm, and I’m views of Red Mountain.
wearing jingling bear bells I ac- I feast on lunch under a big red
quired back home on Vancouver’s patio umbrella at The Velvet, the
North Shore. Still, it’s an unforget- in-house restaurant. It’s hard to go
table, heart-racing moment in the wrong with a crispy chicken sand-
Monashee Mountains. wich with Gruyere cheese, coleslaw
Like a smart city slicker, I decide and avocado puree, plus a hearty
not to go back the way I came. Cobb salad.
After admiring the wilderness As I discover on my post-lunch
sunset, I sing Van Halen and AC/ foray into town, Rossland brims with
DC songs while jogging down the named Canada’s Female Athlete of the laidback rustic charm, but the town
wide, winding Sally’s Ride trail to 20th century. Kerrin-Lee Gartner, who of 3,700 also has enough creature
The Josie, my boutique hotel at the won the 1992 Olympic gold medal in comforts to satisfy spoiled city dwell-
foot of Red Mountain. (Bears avoid downhill, is another local product. ers.
80s hard rock even more than Hockey fans harken back to former After grabbing a handcrafted
bells.) Canadian national team goalie Seth Americano from the popular Seven
In retrospect, my comical flight Martin (IIHF Hall of Fame, 1997) and Summits coffee shop, I stroll down
from Mr. Bear is only slightly less Stanley Cup champion Dallas Drake Columbia Avenue, which is fes-
smooth than the Pacific Coastal (Detroit Red Wings, 2008). Also, the tooned with hanging flower baskets.
Airlines flight from Vancouver to Rossland Ladies Hockey Team went At the Mountain Nugget Choco-
Trail. That takes just an hour and 15 unbeaten from 1900 to 1917 (BC late Company, the decor catches
minutes. Hockey Hall of Fame, 2018). my eye. Vintage wooden skis adorn
After landing the previous day, The Josie was named Canada’s Best the wall behind the counter. Local
I made the 20-minute drive to Ski Boutique Hotel in the 2019 World artist Lars Baggenstos has prints like
The Josie in a rented 2019 Toyota Ski Awards, but a summertime visit “Young Black Bear” for sale ($30 to
Corolla. I was curious about visiting offers great opportunities to explore $120) in frames made of Slocan Lake
Rossland in the summer. After all, the well-maintained area trails, which driftwood. I shell out for some BC
this 1897-founded gold-mining welcome hikers, trail runners and blueberry anise, maple walnut and
town is well known for its rich his- mountain bikers. Rossland boasts strawberry balsamic chocolates.
tory of winter sports athletes. more than 50 trails and 160 kilometres Just off Columbia Avenue, the
Nancy Greene, the 1968 Olym- of single track. well-stocked Gold Rush Bookstore in-
pic gold medalist in giant slalom, Coming into The Josie, which dulges my cultural appetites. Owner
hails from Rossland, and was opened in 2018 with 106 rooms just Michelle Fairbanks recommends titles
May/June 2021 | 18 | pacificcoastal.comThe Josie features a spacious, skiing-themed lobby.
At left, a crispy chicken sandwich at The Josie.
To round out my local sports experi- and forward passing. In a sense, the
The Josie was named Canada’s ence, I drive to Crescent Valley the next remaining riverside log pilings and
Best Ski Boutique Hotel in the day for a two-hour kayak tour on the Slo- graffiti-covered sawmill ruins here
can River with Endless Adventure guide constitute the ancient Mesopotamia
2019 World Ski Awards, but a Jordan Overholt. During the five-kilome- of modern-day hockey.
summertime visit offers great tre odyssey, Overholt, who doubles as a I’m still musing about it as I head
opportunities to explore the logging-truck mechanic, shows me how
to power through challenging sections
to the Rossland Beer Company. The
brick-walled establishment, formerly
well-maintained area trails, of the river, which have names like Calm a hardware store, offers refreshing,
which welcome hikers, trail Before the Storm and Elevator Rapids. rap-themed beers with names like
There are plenty of serene moments Slim Shady Summer Wheat, plus
runners and mountain bikers. on the water, surprisingly warm at 21 Straight Outta Rossland T-shirts. Co-
C. “It’s a good, accessible experience founder Petri Raito is on a first-name
about Kootenay history like Ron for kayaking or rafting,” Overholt says. basis with his many local custom-
Walker’s Old Glory. This primes me “Sometimes, we spot ospreys or grizzlies ers. The vibe is so laid-back that
to check out the recently renovated drinking.” I’m almost surprised when my Red
Rossland Museum & Discovery At Crescent Valley Beach Park, I’m Mountain bear doesn't wander in.
Centre. thrilled to walk around the former site of I don’t spot the bear when I'm
From a vintage Esso gas station Patrick Lumber. Frank and Lester Patrick eating beef brisket and ahi tacos at
to an enormous rope drive com- used proceeds from this 1907-founded the Flying Steamshovel either. Ah
pressor used to power drills in the sawmill company to found the Pacific well, I’m sure he didn’t have as much
Rossland mines, the museum brims Coast Hockey Association, which fea- summer fun in Rossland as I did. (No
with intriguing exhibits. A special tured pro teams in Vancouver, Victoria, offence to the bear community.)
Nancy Greene display includes her Seattle and Portland through 1924. The To plan your trip to Rossland,
skis, medals and various memorabil- PCHA transformed hockey forever with see tourismrossland.com or
ia from the ‘68 Grenoble Olympics. innovations like blue lines, penalty shots hellobc.com.
May/June 2021 | 19 | pacificcoastal.comNORTHERN BC
Go
No r t h !
Barkerville (photo by Amy Attas).
Five must-see attractions in
Northern BC—when the time is right
By Amy Attas
Courtesy Westcoast Traveller
W
hen the time is right again 1. Tumbler Ridge Global ontologist confirmed their find.
to travel, northern BC has a Geopark It was one of the most significant
host of places to visit. And In the summer of 2000, two Tum- dinosaur discoveries in BC in 100
Pacific Coastal Airlines has bler Ridge kids were floating down years.
the means to get you there—check the Flatbed Creek (located just north of Visit the Tumbler Ridge museum
airline’s website for a list of northern-BC Prince George) when they fell off their to learn all about dinosaurs and the
destinations. In the meantime, dream of inner tubes and stumbled on a trail fascinating geology of the region,
experiencing these five attractions. of dinosaur footprints. None of the then head out on the trails for a hike
adults in town believed them, but the or ski to see some jaw-dropping land-
boys persisted until a visiting palae- scapes. You may even find the next
fascinating fossil!
May/June 2021 | 20 | pacificcoastal.comYou’ll see trees as wide as trucks, whales, sea
lions and rare birds, and connect with an ancient
culture that continues to thrive.
2. Barkerville
If you like historic sites where costumed interpreters help you
immerse yourself in a different time, you’ll love Barkerville.
The gold rush town, located east of Wells, BC, is huge
(including over 125 heritage buildings), with a wide range of
hands-on activities, restaurants, entertainment and displays
to engage visitors of all ages. Try your luck at gold panning,
practice calligraphy at the Chinese school house, or watch
infamous Judge Begbie lay down a harsh verdict in court.
Time your visit with the first weekend in August to catch
the ArtsWells festival, or combine it with a canoe trip in Bow-
ron Lake Provincial Park.
3. Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park
For an other-worldly moonscape, visit Anhluut’ukwsim Laxmihl
Angwinga’asanskwhl Nisga’a (Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park),
one of the youngest and most accessible volcanic features in
the province. See vast, sparse fields of volcanic rock, and some-
thing called a tree cast— caused when tree trunks were vapor-
ized in the lava flow, leaving bark-engraved holes in the basalt. The lower pool of the Liard River Hot
Make sure to stay on marked paths, since a single footprint can Springs in Northern British Columbia
set back hundreds of years of delicate lichen growth. (photo by Amy Attas).
Along with geology, on the Nisga’a Nation Auto Tour you’ll
BC LIBERAL MLA
Lorne Doerkson
CARIBOO-CHILCOTIN
CRITIC FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Your MLA for Tom Shypitka
Cariboo-Chilcotin Your MLA for Kootenay East
lorne.doerkson.MLA@leg.bc.ca
102 – 383 Oliver Street, 250-417-6022
Williams Lake, BC V2G 1M4 tom.shypitka.MLA@leg.bc.ca
Ph: 250-305-3800 Fax: 250-305-3808 302-535 Victoria Ave., N. Cranbrook, BC
7-530 Horse Lake Rd, PO Box 95, 100 Mile House, BC V0K 2EO
250-395-3916 TomShypitka.ca
May/June 2021 | 21 | pacificcoastal.comNisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park
Nisga’a Lisims Government / Gary Fiegehen)
Tumbler
Ridge
GeoPark is a
four-season
playground
with rugged
scenery and a
rich dinosaur
history.
CRANBROOK, B.C.
Spacious rooms & suites learn about Nisga’a’s culture and visit a Nisga’a village
1908 Cranbrook Street N (Hwy3/95) which was destroyed by the volcano.
1-888-489-4600
4. Liard River Hot Springs
Here’s why Liard is the best hot spring in BC: it’s natural,
surrounded by forest, big and remote, so you’ll never be
Love
ITALIAN FOOD?
competing for space.
The hot springs are a welcome respite for roadtrippers
making their way to the Yukon, and there’s even a camp-
ground if you’d like to take an extra long soak.
“Come Twirl with u 5. SGang Gwaay UNESCO World Heritage Site
Italian family style dining On the southern tip of the Haida Gwaii archipelago, aged
featuring our traditional cedar mortuary poles rise from the grass, standing watch
Colander Special over a sparkling ocean bay. The carving on these poles is
world class, and so is the scenery—the Haida definitely
Pasta and More know how to pick a village site.
Shopping at Waneta Plaza? Once travel restrictions to Haida Gwaii are lifted and
Try the Colander Express you’re able to visit, you’ll be shown around by a Haida
River Belle Watchman, someone who lives on the site all summer
banquet facility long to protect the traditional territory and share their
culture.
The Sgang Gwaay is part of the Gwaii Haanas National Park
Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, which has the nickname
“Galapagos of the North,” meaning there’s amazing wildlife
as well as historical sites. You’ll see trees as wide as trucks,
whales, sea lions and rare birds, and connect with an
Lunch: 11:30 am - 2pm Weekdays ancient culture that continues to thrive.
Dinner: 4:30 - 8:30pm Daily The stories here and on Page 23 and 24 first
For Reservations 250-364-1816 appeared on westcoasttraveller.com. Plan your travel
1475 Cedar Avenue, Trail, BC adventures here and on Facebook and Instagram @
thewestcoasttraveller.
May/June 2021 | 22 | pacificcoastal.comCAMPBELL RIVER
Indigenous
adventures
Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours.
New vessels and new tours in Campbell River
By Black Press Media
Staff /West Coast Traveller
I
ndigenous tourism is about to get wild Mall at 1344 Island Highway in Camp- realm of exploration.”
in Campbell River. bell River. Designed to immerse visitors While COVID-19 international restric-
Homalco Wildlife & Cultural in First Nations culture at the outset, tions will likely still be in effect this
Tours, a 20-year-old Indigenous the centre’s contemporary Indigenous spring, Shirley Badger, tour coordinator
community-owned business, is opening design will feature art from various local for Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours, is
a new Homalco Adventure Centre in First Nation artists, guidebooks and confident that the tours will continue
Campbell River, launching two new, more. to fill up.
state-of-the-art adventure tour vessels, A defining component of the HWCT “We have seen tremendous interest
and introducing a new Whales, Wildlife tours will be two new landing craft in Indigenous tourism from our domes-
and Culture tour this spring. boats that offer Zodiac-style, fresh-air tic market and our own provincial resi-
“After a long year of restricted busi- seats and comfort seating providing dents who are passionate about wildlife,
ness, we are really looking forward to an protection inside a cosy cabin. culture and the natural beauty to be
exciting spring of substantial expansions “Safety is our number one priority, found in the Territory of the Homalco,”
for our organization,’ said Homalco Tour- and we are employing the expertise she said.
ism Development Officer JP Obbagy. of the best mariners in the business to “All of this great news spells prog-
Despite pandemic-related supply ensure we’ve identified and addressed ress for the Homalco First Nation,” says
chain delays, he confirms the buildout all vessel safety concerns,” Obbagy said. Chief Darren Blaney. “While COVID-19 is
of the centre, manufacturing of the The new Whales, Wildlife and still a factor for the foreseeable future,
watercrafts and staffing of the tours are Culture tour expands the expertise of our Homalco First Nation is ready to
underway. HWCT’s team with the addition of ma- welcome visitors again, for now, and as
“As we move forward, we are inte- rine naturalists, skippers and Indigenous long as we deem it safe to do so. With
grating the highest possible standard guides. Marketing and social media co- this expansion great things can happen:
of COVID-19 safety protocols into all ordinator Chyanne Trenholm describes knowledge of our culture and apprecia-
aspects of these operations,” Obbagy the tour as something totally unique on tion for our environment can be shared
said. Vancouver Island. with a larger audience and more of
The Homalco Adventure Centre will “We now have the ability to bring our people can be hired and their skills
be located in the Discovery Harbour whales and other marine life into our developed.
May/June 2021 | 23 | pacificcoastal.comBELLA COOLA
Given its history and its range of ecological values in the heart of southern Tweedsmuir Park, BC Parks Foundation’s goal is to
purchase and permanently protect this property, making it an integral part of this incredible large untouched wilderness area
(Fawn Gunderson/Landquest photo).
Parks purchase hoped for
Crusoe of Lonesome Lake land
Acreage is rich in history
By Caitlin Thompson,
courtesy West Coast Traveller
T
he BC Parks Foundation, the offi- proposed parks-foundation acquisi- some Lake in 1913 at age 21.
cial charitable partner of BC Parks, tion, known as the Birches, was built The lake’s remoteness offered
is fundraising to purchase one of by Ralph Edwards, a pioneering the swans safety, but at the cost of
the most well-known properties homesteader, amateur pilot and con- starvation during severe winters.
in the Bella Coola region: the former home servationist. Unfortunately, the Birches In 1925, the Canadian government
of Ralph Edwards, known to many as the burned to the ground in a 2004 forest enlisted Edwards’ help to feed the
“Crusoe of Lonesome Lake.” fire, but Ralph’s son, John Edwards, swans during winter. Over the years,
The 153-acre property is a rare pri- constructed a small cabin which still a number of family members took on
vately owned parcel in the middle of stands there today. the task—first Ralph, then John and
a globally significant wilderness area: Ralph was perhaps best known for others— using sacks of corn hauled in
southern Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. his commitment to the area’s trum- by packhorse.
At almost one million hectares, it’s BC’s peter swans, which faced extinction in During then Princess Elizabeth’s
largest park. And Bella Coola can be the 19th and early 20th centuries due 1951 tour of Canada, she was prom-
accessed via pacific Coastal Airlines. to over-hunting, and were imperilled ised a Dominion gift of trumpeter
The original homestead on the when he took up residence at Lone- swans, by arrangement of British
May/June 2021 | 24 | pacificcoastal.comconservationist Peter Scott, who was
head of the Severn Wildlife Trust in
Britain (now known as the Wildfowl &
Wetlands Trust). Canadian officials dis-
covered the only swans tame enough
to capture were at Lonesome Lake
as they had been fed by the Edwards
family for decades.
In 1952, with the help of Ralph and
his daughter, Trudy Turner (Trudy had
by now taken over feeding them), five
were captured and flown to Eng-
land, the first time trumpeter swans
had ever flown across the Atlantic
(although, in the 19th century, swans
had been brought by ship to Euro-
pean zoos). The original homestead, the Birches, unfortunately burned to the ground in a 2004 fire
(photo unknown).
Ralph was perhaps best
known for his commitment
to the area’s trumpeter
swans, which faced extinc-
tion in the 19th and early
20th centuries due to over-
hunting, when he took up
residence at Lonesome Lake
in 1913 at age 21.
In 1972, Ralph was awarded the
Order of Canada for his work, and by
the 1980s, trumpeter swan popula-
tions had increased throughout their
range, and the Canadian government
stopped its feeding program.
Ralph and family members have
written or been featured in several
books and television programs, most
Ethel Edwards sitting, second from the left, with Ralph behind her. Before his trademark
notably Leland Stowe’s bestsell- beard. Or perhaps shaved for the wedding (Susan Turner photo).
ing Crusoe of Lonesome Lake and
his sister-in-law’s book Ruffles on edition of This Is Your Life. Guests Ralph passed away in 1977 and
My Longjohns. for the show included his younger John in 2007. The property remains
Ralph become semi-famous for his brother, whom he had not seen in 35 in the family and the push is on for
living-off-the-land accomplishments years; former army comrades, who the BC Parks Foundation to raise the
and was featured in a documentary, he had not seen in 38 years; and his funds to purchase this unique piece
as well as on the 1957 Christmas Day 93-year-old mother. of land.
May/June 2021 | 25 | pacificcoastal.comMASSET
PRINCE GEORGE
ALBERTA
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Haida Gwaii ANAHIM LAKE
BELLA COOLA WILLIAMS LAKE
BELLA BELLA
Hakai Pass
Broughton
Archipelago
PORT HARDY
KAMLOOPS
CAMPBELL RIVER
KELOWNA
POWELL RIVER
COMOX
CRANBROOK
PENTICTON
TOFINO VANCOUVER SOUTH TERMINAL TRAIL CANADA
UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA
VICTORIA
WASHINGTON
MAIN PACIFIC COASTAL HUB
AIRPORTS
PACIFIC COASTAL ROUTES
May/June 2021 | 26 | pacificcoastal.comYou can also read
