Grand Forks Things To Do
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 Those with all kinds of interests are drawn to Grand Forks. Its mining and railway history, Doukhobor heritage and location in the Monashee Mountains at the junction of two rivers offer scope for a wide range of activities. The rivers, grasslands, mountains, rail trails and provincial parks provide a backdrop for golf, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, tubing, canoeing and kayaking, fishing and camping. Driving routes take in historic sites, farms and orchards while downtown walking tours showcase the arts and more heritage sites. History & the Arts History and the arts are central to the Grand Forks experience with the heritage courthouse (1912) at its hub. One stop covers heritage exhibits, Grand Forks' very worthwhile art gallery and a gift shop. The Grand Forks Visitor Centre is also located in this building. Stop by for maps of the downtown Historical Walking Tour and Art Walks tour along with brochures on the Mountainview Doukhobor Village, Doukhobor Mill and Fructova Heritage Centre. Beaches & Swimming Set at the confluence of the Kettle and Granby rivers, Grand Forks is a great place for water activities. Sun worshipers and water babies spend a day at the beach in City Park or one of the myriad secluded beaches tucked away on the banks of the Kettle and Granby rivers. Swim, float in a tube, canoe or kayak. Fishing is also a popular pastime. In winter, check out Grand Forks & District Aquatic Centre.
Land Activities  Hikers and cyclists trek rail trails. The former Columbia & Western Railway now forms part of the Trans Canada Trail, following the Granby River valley into the forested high country, while the Vancouver, Victoria & Eastern heads out across farm country and grasslands. Both trails are accessible from downtown. These trails are also popular with horseback riders and, in winter, snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Mountain bikers tackle a number of skill-testing downhills. Horse lovers check out the guided tours from Owl Mountain Ranch. Golf For a different kind of challenge, Granby River Golf is one of only a handful of organic golf courses in North America. Tee up at one of five tee boxes on each hole of this par 72 course for up to 7,385 yards of economical links play. Water is a big factor on this easy-walking flat course. Facilities include rentals, snack bar and driving range.
Rock Hounding Grand Forks is mining country. Spend a family day prospecting for colourful fluorite, barite and quartz crystals with Rock Candy Mountain at the site of an abandoned mine. Options include five-hour day tours and moonlit rock tours where black lights illuminate the crystals.
Farms & Orchards Sample the produce of the "Sunshine Valley" at Grand Forks area farms and orchards. Tour the orchard and vegetable gardens at Spencer Hill Orchard and Gallery. Visit the contented cows and stock up on organic cheddar, Gouda, feta and yogurt at Jerseyland Organics.
Farmers' Market Make an appointment to see the Doukhobor Flour Mill, drop by a roadside market or check out the produce and artisanal products at the Grand Forks Farmers Market in City Park, Tuesday and Friday mornings from June to October.
Driving Routes Explore the region's mining history, delve into Doukhobor culture, sample agricultural products, take a dip in the river at a secluded beach or just enjoy the scenery on one of several driving routes that radiate from Grand Forks.
Winter Activities Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding Insiders claim Phoenix Mountain is "the best little ski hill in BC." Easily accessible 28km/17mi west of Grand Forks, Phoenix is close to the site of the copper mine that put this region on the map. Downhill skiers and snowboarders ride the rope tow or T-bar to the 1463m/4800ft summit for a maximum vertical fall of 244m/800ft on 11 runs.
Snow Conditions Mixed terrain provides a range of challenges from green to black diamond. On average, 900cm/29ft of snow falls annually, making for great skiing conditions from mid-December through March. North-facing slopes keep the snow going for excellent late season conditions with average winter temperatures of -5°C/24°F.
Cross-country Skiing & Snowshoeing Above the downhill ski area at Phoenix Mountain, cross-country skiers and snowshoers hit the extensive trail system at Marshall Lake/Providence Lake. Check out more trails at Jewel Lake Provincial Park (49km/30mi northwest) or stick closer to Grand Forks and head out on the Trans Canada Trail or VV&E rail trails.
Festivals & Events Grand Forks hosts a number of festivals and events each year, but one standout is the Grand Forks International Baseball Tournament held annually on Labour Day weekend. Each year the line-up varies, but count on seeing teams from Canada, the US and beyond at James Donaldson Park.
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