July 29, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Outdoor Activity Tours
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Explored the hidden gem of Bella Coola Valley last week. This was my first trip to the area and I was excited to check it out. I flew in on Pacific Coastal on a direct flight from Vancouver’s south terminal, and the views of the Coast Mountains were stunning. Approaching and landing at the Bella Coola Airport was pretty awesome too.
We did a general tour of the area and got to see the BC Ferries wharf and Clayton Falls which was very dramatic. Then we went for a short walk into an ancient western red cedar grove which was just amazing from both an ecological and cultural perspective (the only other place I’ve seen trees like that is Haida Gwaii). We walked on trails through enormous old growth trees including the biggest Cottonwood tree I’ve ever seen. It was nice and cool in there too! We also visited the historic Norwegian House (original settlers in the area) and heard some great stories at the Bella Coola museum. That afternoon we took a gentle rafting trip on the Bella Coola River with Kynock Adventures (the same folks who run the Coast Mountain Lodge). The scenery and overall experience was so peaceful, although I hear they can find some rapids if that’s what you’re looking for. I spent the night at Tweedsmuir Lodge, which is located in BC’s largest provincial park. The grounds and main lodge are beautiful and they have several well-appointed cabins for guests. I’m told that sometimes you see wildlife such as bears right on the front lawn! This is a true wilderness lodge (with a bit of luxury). The lodge is also the base for Bella Coola Helisports, which is the largest single heli skiing area in the world. And in spring and early summer, they have packages where you can go heli skiing on a glacier in the morning and fishing in the afternoon.
My only regret is that I didn’t have enough time in Bella Coola to explore more. Next time, I’d like to do the entire circle tour travelling over to Vancouver Island, up to Port Hardy, catch the BC Ferry Discovery Coast trip to Bella Coola, spend a few days there and then head east, up ‘the hill’, and across the beautiful Chilcotin Plateau for a stay at a guest ranch such as Echo Valley or Siwash Lake.
July 29, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
McBride, Shopping
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Anyone passing through the Robson Valley should make a stop in McBride BC at the Whistle Stop Gallery. It’s located inside the Heritage Railway station along with the Visitor Info Center. The gallery boasts artwork and craftsmanship from over 50 valley artists. So if you’re looking for that unique gift for someone who has everything or just a memento to take home with you, Whistle Stop is the place to go. I stopped in with a friend last weekend and admired the large amount of beautiful handcrafted products for sale. It’s a gorgeous atmosphere even if you’re not interested in making a purchase.
July 29, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Quesnel, Guest Ranches & Horseback Riding
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In 1977 Dale Dunn and a group of friends rode from the family ranch, just west of Quesnel, to attend the 41st annual Anahim Lake Stampede. That year, 57 head of horses were ridden or driven to Anahim Lake on this annual pilgrimage. Significantly, at one of their overnight stops, they were hosted by the legendary Pan Phillips at his fly-in fish camp on the Blackwater River. Over the years the number of visitors arriving by horse for the Stampede steadily declined until they were just a memory. This year Dale and Yvonne Dunn, owners of the Blackwater Spruce Ranch, organized and led the first horse-powered expedition to Anahim Lake in over 20 years. I had the distinct pleasure of participating in this almost historic adventure. Leaving from their property on Titetown Lake on 24 June, three wagons and nine riders (15 people, 17 horses and two dogs) crossed the Euchineko River and picked up the old wagon road to Kluskus and beyond. Ten days later on 3 July, after riding and driving almost 200 miles, we arrived, somewhat trail-worn, at Anahim Lake. Enroute we visited Robbie and Linda Phillips, who live year-round at, and still operate Pan Phillips' fish camp. Five miles further on we camped overnight at the famous, but now deserted, Home Ranch. Many of the other ranches along the trail have also been deserted over the years, but Jim Chadwell, and Walter and Norah Lambert still pursue their traditional lifestyles on the interior plateau. Our welcome at Anahim Lake could not possibly have been any warmer, and the 73rd annual Anahim Lake Stampede provided a much appreciated and truly memorable interlude, after which we retraced our route back to Titetown Lake. The horses, refreshed after their two day respite, were quick to recognize that their noses were now pointed east, and as a result the return trip was completed in just nine days. I characterized this trip as an expedition, and not by accident. We camped out nightly, experienced a wide variety of weather conditions, crossed and recrossed the Euchineko and Blackwater Rivers, cleared deadfalls, repaired wagons and a bridge, shod horses and just generally lived a lifestyle that most can only read about. Dale and Yvonne did a truly amazing job of planning and conducting this adventure, and everyone who participated in it has lived a piece of history. This was an amazing trip and it ought to be on the "bucket list" of every horse person who truly wishes to re-live a long-forgotten, and much simpler lifestyle.
July 29, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Mount Robson, Hiking
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Overlander Falls, only one of the many featured inside the boundaries of Mt. Robson Provincial Park may be one of the most popular. Located along the yellowhead just 14km East of the HWY 5 & 16 Junction it is perhaps the best rest stop in the area during scorching hot summer months. On a recent trip to the area, myself and a friend discovered Overlander Falls on our quest to find a cool place out of the heat. On 30+ summer days the cool breeze and light spray from the waterfall produces the ultimate relaxing spot. The falls themselves lie down a small five minute walk from the road, which is perfect for a quick escape from the heat. We were very thankful we came upon them during our trip and suggest anyone passing through the area have a quick peek at this beautiful and refreshing waterfall.
July 28, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Mackenzie, Attractions
I recently made a trip from Fort St. John to Prince George and back. At least one of the directions of that drive, we always stop at Bijoux Falls for a quick break.
It is located right on Hwy 97 between Powder King Ski Hill and the turn to Mackenzie. You will know you are getting close when you see little mini waterfalls coming down by the side of the road!
There are clean washrooms, picnic tables, and a bit of room for kids or pets to run around.
The air is always nice and cool with a bit of mist in the air coming off off the beautiful waterfalls. That area is also known for its Stellar Jay population, so keep an eye out for BC's provincial bird!
It is a great, relaxing place to stop just before or after you navigate through the windy roads of the Pine Pass.
July 28, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Valemount, Bird Watching
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A friend and I took the afternoon to walk around the Starratt Marsh just south of Valemount one hot and sunny afternoon. While we were there at the worst possible time to take advantage of the incredible bird watching opportunities that the marsh boasts, the scenery is still breathtaking. If you climb up one of the watchtowers, you will have a spectacular view of the Monashee Mountains south of the village. Should you arrive at the right at time, it is a bird watchers paradise with such birds as the Yellow-Headed Blackbird, the Sora and the Northren Harrier all using this provincially important resting and nesting area. Even if you are not a hardcore birder and would just like to have a relaxing stroll, the 6km loop around marsh is an easy walk that will provide some wonderful views.
Krystin
July 28, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
McBride, Sightseeing Tours
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If you have a little extra time on your way to Jasper, take the detour down the Dunster Road. It takes you across the quaint Dunster Flower Bridge which spans the Fraser River. The single lane bridge is decorated with flowers painted by the locals and it makes the beautiful scenery driving across the bridge even better. Continue down the road and you will come to the community of Dunster itself. You will pass the Dunster Fine Arts School, which is decorated with funky paintings, and the Dunster General Store. If you continue, you will drive along the Fraser River through expansive fields and meadows with mountains looming in the background and past remnants of old homestead. This will take you to the junction of Highway 16 and 5 and you can continue on your travels. While it may not be the more popular route, the Dunster Road will allow you to travel through rural BC and see things that many people unknowingly pass-by.
Krystin
July 27, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
North Vancouver, Hiking
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Recently, I had six guests visiting from the Netherlands,
all of whom are over 60 years in age and have different levels of fitness.
Since the nature, forests, and mountains are my favourite part of living in
Vancouver, I decided to take them to the North Shore for a day to experience
this beauty. I took them to Lynn Canyon Park and we started our walk at the
Suspension Bridge. Not everyone in the group stopped halfway across the suspension
bridge to take in the view of the rushing water below us. One lady who is
afraid of heights rushed across the bridge without stopping, only looking
straight ahead. We started walking along the trails towards the Twin Falls, a
scenic waterfall that is a 15-minute walk down river from the suspension
bridge. There is a maze of hiking trails in the forest and I have experienced
many of them from previous hikes in this area. There is a much longer loop that
takes exactly the trail we were on as well as exploring the Seymour River
canyon. It is called Two Canyon Loop.
For most of my guests, reaching the Twin Falls was enough exercise for the day,
so we started our way up hill back to the suspension bridge. The forest is very
pretty along the trail with giant, mossy Western Cedar and Douglas Fir trees
amongst the old, magnificent stumps. On our way out of the park, we enjoyed a
cup of coffee at the coffee shop and also stopped by the Ecology Centre where
they have different displays about the local forest, wildlife, and environment.
My guests really enjoyed the afternoon they spent exploring the beauty of the
North Shore.
July 27, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Vancouver, Biking
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Connecting downtown Vancouver to Surrey is the convenient Skytrain. Following underneath the Skytrain for the majority of this journey is the 7-11 bike path. Starting at Science World it goes all the way to Richmond. On the way, you will pass Commercial Drive (home to great yearly events like the
Car Free Festival), as well as Trout Lake which hosts one of Vancouver’s
Farmers Markets. You will pass through
Central Park in Burnaby which is a great break from the traffic. Stop off at
Metrotown for a spot of light shopping. Or, rest with a coffee and a small treat at Choices Market In The Park at
Edmonds.
Even though the majority of the 7-11 pathways are on trails there are a few spots where you will be on the road. A helmet will give you extra reassurance that you are safe and is mandatory under BC law.
From Science World to Metrotown there are a few good sharp hills. They are not too bad, if you get tired, step off and walk your bike up. If you are anti-hills, Skytrain out to Metrotown (as it is at the highest point) and bike towards downtown, the ride is very easy and enjoyable. Bikes can be taken on the Skytrain any time except from 7-9am and 4-6pm Monday to Friday.
So, get on your bike, enjoy the summer sun and explore beautiful Metro Vancouver.
July 26, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Nakusp, Sightseeing Tours
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We wanted to go for a drive today and explore places nearby. Leaving Nakusp at 10 am we headed towards Fauquier on Hwy 6 - our first adventure was to find a waterfall we'd heard about on Snow Creek, near Burton. It was a beautiful spot - a mossy forest floor, evidence of an old trail with a log bridge across the creek. A bonus was finding huckleberries perfectly ripe all along our walk!
Next we headed to Fauquier for lunch at the Mushroom Addition Restaurant - it was absolutely packed full of motorcyclists who had enjoyed a ride over the Monashee that morning, but we found a table and had a great lunch. Despite the crowd the service was great and there's lots to look at - old photos and various antiques, and reading about the mushrooms is interesting. This restaurant was just written up in the Summer 2009 issue of British Columbia Magazine, as part of the #6 item of 50 Things To Do Before You Die. Congrats to the owners who have worked hard to build up the clientelle over the years by offering great service and locally picked edible wild mushrooms as an option with your meal.
While waiting for the ferry across the lake to Needles, we did a quick geocache hunt - finding a hidden container with a GPS unit. This is a fun hobby that gets us out to new places as a family, and the kids enjoy the treasure hunt aspect.
We wanted to go home via the west side of the lake, along forestry roads, to the Arrow Park Ferry. So the next stop was the Hippie Hole near Whatshan Lake, where we cooled off in the creek and big pool - great place for jumping in! After that we drove north along Whatshan Lake and then headed to Arrow Park, with another stop to cool down in Mosquito Creek before the quick ride on the little cable ferry back to Hwy 6 then north back to Nakusp by 5 pm.
There are lots of stops and sights we want to return for, not being able to stop at everything along the way, so we will be heading that way again soon!
For more details & photos look for this post on the facebook page "Great Things in Nakusp & Arrow Lakes".