This valley’s long-standing tradition of hosting visitors goes back to the early 20th century, when Canadians flocked to marvel at the hot waters flowing naturally from the Rocky Mountains, and to test their reputed curative powers. For thousands of years, since the early days of the First Nations, the Columbia Valley has been known as the home of these “smoking waters”, where the lifeblood of earth spilled out to sculpt the landscape and to give soothing relief to the weary traveller.
A first-time visitor can enjoy the valley’s trails, ski slopes and golf courses before sinking into a blissfully warmed pool at Radium, Fairmont or Lussier Hot Springs to soak away their cares.
This tranquil paradise has so much to offer throughout the year. Here, the Columbia River begins its 2,400 kilometre journey to the Pacific, winding through our spectacular lakes and nature-filled wetlands up to Golden, at the valley’s northern tip, and beyond. Warm summer days can be spent exploring its length by boat, fishing its shores or plunging into the clear waters of Columbia Lake and Lake Windermere. The crisp chill of winter brings ice skating, snowmobiling and curling on these same waters.
Just beyond the valley’s southern border lies the beautiful, Bavarian-inspired city of Kimberley, and nearby Cranbrook, the largest urban centre in southeastern British Columbia, has a thriving business district and many shopping opportunities.
Limitless acres of trails wind throughout the Columbia Valley, offering walking, mountain biking and climbing to spring and summer guests, whereas snow-lovers can enjoy them by sled, cross-country ski or snowshoe. The rugged landscapes of our national and provincial parks provide hanging glaciers, waterfalls and panoramic mountain vistas, which beg to be explored.
In these pages you will find a guide to everything you could wish to do during your stay and all the information you’ll need to make it a pleasant one. If you are here on business you’ll find all the professional services you need. If you’re scouting for real estate or your next business investment, the prospects in this region are excellent. The local Chambers of Commerce are a wealth of information.
Whatever the reason for your visit, be sure to take advantage of all the valley has to offer. Our friendly community is filled with shops, art galleries, restaurants and an exciting choice of events — from community fairs, to festivals, to family-friendly celebrations. Indoor and outdoor recreation of every kind is abundant, framed by the stunning Rocky Mountains to the east and the rugged Purcells Mountains to the west.
For more information about our magnificent valley be sure to drop by one of the Visitor Centres. The friendly, knowledgeable staff are happy to provide directions, suggest activities or impart some sound advice to help you make the most of your stay. We’re sure it will be a memorable one and hope that our famed hospitality draws you back again.
Designed by Shawn Wernig © 2011 Columbia Valley Pioneer • www.columbiavalleypioneer.com
