October 28, 2008 | Field Reports >
Tumbler Ridge, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Tumbler Ridge is becoming very well known for an exciting claim to fame. Dinosaurs - or at least the remains of dinosaurs. The only place I've ever seen any has been in museums during a school field trip. But in Tumbler Ridge they are right there in the rock. On the advice of the great staff at the Info Centre, I was directed to an easy hike that leads right to some foot prints left in the rock - right in a river bed. The trail is well marked, the scenery is lovely and at the end of the trail there is a picnic area next to the dinosaur tracks. I was in awe. It was kind of like Jurrasic Park. It is certainly one of the most unique hikes I have ever done.
October 27, 2008 | Field Reports >
Prince Rupert, Sightseeing Tours
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While in Kitimat one of the things that was highly recommended, as a way to see the most of our province is to take the train from Prince Rupert east to Prince George. I love this train! It was the perfect journey from the northern coast to the north eastern part of the province. It travels along the Skeena River, past Native Petroglyphs and glaciers, and winds its way along lakes and forests. One of the great things about the trip is the opportunity to meet lots of people from all over the world. The trip I took included some wonderful folks from England, Scotland, Australia, Germany, and the US. We all had our cameras out for most of the journey. It has to be one of the most amazing - and relaxing trips I have ever taken.
October 27, 2008 | Field Reports >
Prince Rupert, Sightseeing Tours
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The coastal port city of Prince Rupert in Northern BC is right at the mouth of the beautiful Skeena River. There are many ways to get to Prince Rupert, by ferry, cruise ship, by train or by air or you can drive. Driving takes about 18 hours north from Vancouver, flying takes 2 hours. Either way, getting there is half the fun, as the scenery is simply stunning. There are LOTS of things to see and do in, and around Prince Rupert. A great starting point is the Tourism BC Info Centre.Its in the tourist area known as Cow Bay. The staff is very friendly, and they have tons of suggestions depending on what your interests are. I started at the Museum of Northern BC, and was very impressed with the collection of native artifacts from thousands of years ago. I popped into the Ice House Art Gallery, to find a huge selection of exquisit works by area artists. And of course, while your on the coast, sampling the seafood is a must. Smiles Cafe has been in Prince Rupert since the 1920's and I highly recommend the halibut and chips. Lip Smaking good! A few more things I can recommend for your visit to Prince Rupert is to bring lots of layers. No matter what time of year, this is northern port city, and the weather tends to change frequently. And because Prince Rupert and the surrounding area is vast in terms of geography, make sure you leave lots of time to play!
October 27, 2008 | Field Reports >
Kitimat, Art Galleries & Artists
Sammy Robinson, Chief of the Haisla Indian Band, is one of the most well known Native Carvers in the world. He lives and works in Kitimat, BC, but his carvings have been sold internationally. His stunning wood and metal carvings tell stories of native history and culture. Kitimat, and the surrounding area is rich in native heritage, and you'll often see huge totem poles along streets and in the parks. Sammy is a wonderful tour guide, and after spending time with him, I feel like I have a better understanding of this rich culture.
October 27, 2008 | Field Reports >
Kitimat, Sightseeing Tours
Kitimat BC is the perfect place for people who like to play outside - on the water, or on land. The scenery is breath-taking, and the locals are super friendly. One of the best ways to experience the spectacular nature that surrounds this Northern BC town is by boat. I saw all kinds of wild life, including a group of seals catching some sun on an outcrop of rocks. Fishing - both on the ocean and in the rivers is huge here, mind you, so are the fish. I also tried my luck at casting a crab trap - and got one!!! I wish I had more time, but I'll definately be back.
October 27, 2008 | Field Reports >
Kelowna, Wineries & Vineyards
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You can't go to the Okanagan without visiting a winery! Tourism BC Field Reporter, Kelli Corscadden has a great afternoon after following a recommendation to Summerhill Pyramid Winery.
October 27, 2008 | Field Reports >
Kamloops, Biking
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I got a little adventurous at the suggestion of a local. I travelled to Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops and gave downhill mountain biking a try. The adrenaline was pumping, the view was spectacular and it was a GREAT time!
October 26, 2008 | Field Reports >
Nelson, Sightseeing Tours
Have you ever visited a place for the first time yet had feelings of being right at home? For me, Nelson was that place. From the moment I arrived I felt comfortable. The streets were adorned with heritage architecture that spoke to the rich history of this charming BC destination. As I explored the town, I couldn't help but notice the friendliness, warmth and diversity of the residents. It seemed that everyone that I spoke with had a smile on their face and a pocketful of reasons why they loved living in Nelson. Mind you, I needed no convincing as to why someone would love this place.
I think that Leah from the art gallery and museum in Nelson put it well when she said “Nelson is cosmopolitan but also small town and it has the best of both worlds...”.
John from Oso Negro Cafe also summed Nelson up nicely by speaking about the quality of life and “...well rounded community”.
If I were to suggest a place in the Kootenay Rockies that offers culture, adventure, art, outdoor recreation activities and community, Nelson would be at the top of my list. Nelson is a place that I will visit again, maybe for an extended period.
October 26, 2008 | Field Reports >
Nelson, Kayaking & Canoeing
What to do next? Greg from Bull River Guest Ranch had a great idea suggesting that I try kayaking on Kootenay Lake. So off I went towards Kootenay Lake just outside of Nelson, BC. Once I arrived, I saw a sign on the road advertising kayaks and canoes for rent. I knocked on the door and was greeted by Bob, the owner. Bob agreed to take me on a trip around the lake in addition to offering some expertise on how one should manoeuvre a kayak. The lake was glassy and the sun was shining, a great day for a paddle, pleasant, peaceful and serene. If you ever get a chance to spend some time on Kootenay Lake, a kayak or canoe is a great way to go! Thanks Bob.
October 26, 2008 | Field Reports >
Cranbrook, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Following my enjoyable dips in the hot springs, I needed a new destination for exploration. Lucky for me I ran into some friendly photographers in Radium(Fawzi and Lindsey) who suggested I keep heading south to the historic town of Fort Steele. The drive to Fort Steele took just over an hour and was very scenic.
Once I arrived, I was amazed at how it felt like I was stepping back in time. Walking through the whitewashed wooden gates, I found myself surrounded by buildings and costumed folks that echoed an important part of BC history. I found my bearings and headed over to the photography studio to get suited up. Now that I looked the part, I was treated to a brief history lesson by two long time residents, Mrs. Kershaw and “Nugget” Norm. Following an awesome day at the historic town, I headed to the Bull River Guest Ranch for a little rest and relaxation. The accommodations were exceptional, rustic log cabins with beautiful field stone fireplaces and big cozy beds. The next morning I met up with Greg and Gina who took me on a fantastic trail ride, beautiful views and great company.