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in the beautiful columbia valley

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Serving Spillimacheen, Brisco, Radium, Edgewater, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats

Entertainment and activity guide for the whole family!

JUNIPER TRAIL The Juniper Trail in Radium Hot Springs is an easy stroll into a lush, misty canyon cooled by the spray from Sinclair Falls. See story on Page 11.

Photo by Cayla Gabruck

2 ~ Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 31, 2009

COLLEGE OF THE ROCKIES - INVERMERE CAMPUS

Art Adventures Aug 4 - 7

RoboCamp (Robotics) August 10 - 14 All camps are $195 per week.

For more information:

Phone: 250 342-3210 • www.cotr.bc.ca/ConEd

FLYING HIGH – Paragliders and hang gliders take off from Mount Swansea for an aerobatic competition over the Columbia Valley. It’s just one in a weekend of fun events on August 8th and 9th.

Stay a week for more fun upcoming events

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff

Phone: (250) 342-0707 Invermere Industrial Park (just off the road to Panorama)

klein@nucleus.com • www.tepapanui.com

This might be the long weekend, but next weekend will be even bigger.

August 8th and 9th will mark three of the Columbia Valley’s best-known events.

The first of these is the annual Lakeside Event.

Now in its 33rd year, it is the longest-running light aviation meet in Canada.

Paragliders and hang gliders travel to the top of Mount Swansea, east of Invermere. From there they will launch into the air and serenely make their way down to the ground – or the water.

They will have a dramatic landing on the beach in James Chabot Provincial Park – or actually in the waters of Lake Windermere!

Spectators can relax on the beach and watch the pilots land. There will even be an aerobatic contest for the paragliders over the lake.

That evening, a banquet and dance will be held at the Lakeside Pub to cap off a day of high-falutin’ fun.

For more information, visit www.lakesideevent. com.

Next on your agenda should be the kick-off of the annual TransRockies mountain bike race. Competitors take off from Panorama Mountain Resort on

Sunday, August 8th, then race for seven days across 600 kilometres to Fernie.

Along the way, cyclists pass through Nipika Mountain Resort, Whiteswan Lake, Elkford and the Crowsnest Pass, tackling 17,000 metres of elevation along the way.

The whole gruelling competition starts here, though, and in 2007, 300 people started the race in Panorama. The cyclists go through Panorama as the race begins, before heading into the mountains and a climb to 2,500 feet.

Visit www.transrockies.com for more information.

Last but certainly not least is the beloved Loop the Lake event. The 14th annual run/walk is put on by the Rotary Club of Invermere and it is their biggest fundraiser of the year.

Runners in the 10-kilometre race take off from Windermere Community Hall at 8 a.m. The half-martathon starts on Kootenay Road No. 3 at 7:30 a.m.

Racers will finish at Pynelogs Cultural Centre at Kinsmen Beach, Invermere, and a pancake breakfast will welcome them.

Visit www.loopthelake.bc.ca for registration and other details.

Whatever you choose to see next weekend, it is going to be a full and fun time around the valley!

Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer ~ 3

July 31, 2009

Elevating your game: the Pioneer’s guide to golf lessons in the valley The Columbia Valley is a golfer’s paradise and whether you’re new to the game or just need to tweak your swing, the valley is the perfect place to get professional help.

Copper Point Golf Club, Windermere, 250-341-3392 Copper Point offers many types of private or group lessons. All lessons take place at their practice facility and are taught by one of the three Canadian Professional Golf Association professionals at the Academy: Darren Ottenbreit, Rick Lalonde and Brian Schaal.

Options for golf lessons are: • Private Lessons, start at $79 for a single lesson, up to $299 for a series of five.

• Semi-Private Lessons (two people), start at $129 for a single lesson, up to $499 for a series of five.

• Golf Schools, Two-Day Golf School – eight hours of instruction plus two rounds of golf, from $349 to $519 per golfer.

• Play with a Pro, involves playing

a round of golf with one of the CPGA professionals.

• Ladies’ Night Out, every Thursday, beginners welcome! Includes instruction with a golf professional, nine holes of golf with a cart, and appetizers at The View restaurant for $50 per person.

• Family Golf Programs, add $10 per child to your private lesson and have your child learn, too!

Eagle Ranch Golf Resort, Invermere, 250-342-2562 All golf lessons at Eagle Ranch are based on the golfer’s individual needs by head professional Steve Haggard and assistant pro Ryan Wells, both members of the CPGA. Most lessons and clinics are available throughout the golf season. The many options for private or group lessons are as follows: Continued on next page . . .

Photo by Cayla Gabruck

Summer Golfing At Its Best – BLOWN GLASS – BEADS – METALWORK – CLAY – PHOTOS – PAINTINGS – PRINTS

V

majestic

By Katie Caldwell Pioneer Staff

Eagle Ranch Pro Steve Haggard coaches Pam Sommers of Calgary.

U-Brew and Wine

• Free Winery Tours • Wine Ware Featuring • Orange Chocolate Port • White Chocolate White Port

Bead making classes and jewellery assembly!

Call us for registration and schedules.

4 Time CVCC Award Winners

250-342-6816 • www.bavinglass.com I N V E R M E R E / PA N O R A M A The Bavin Glass Cabin in Panorama is now open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For tee times, call 250-342-3004 www.windermerevalleygolfcourse.com

400 Laurier Street Invermere • BC (just west of Dairy Queen)

1-877-342-0059

info@brew4u.net Proud supplier of

4 ~ Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer Continued from last page . . .

• Private Lessons, adults start at $50 for a 30-minute lesson; juniors start at $30 for a 30-minute lesson.

• Group Lessons, three to six adults start at $30/ person; three to six juniors start at $20/person.

• Three-Day Golf School, nine hours of instruction plus three rounds of golf for $625. Next one is running August 21st-23rd.

• Playing Lessons, includes a 15-minute warm-up at the driving range, nine holes of golf, and a 15-minute wrap-up. Starts at $150 plus green fee.

Radium Resort, Radium Hot Springs, The Resort Course (250-347-6266) and The Springs Course (250-347-6205) Radium Resort boasts two beautiful golf courses, which offer lessons by CPGA professionals. Instruction at The Resort Course is given by assistant golf professional Matt Barker and instruction at The Springs Course by head professional Brent Taylor and assistant professionals Kris Cunningham and Mike van Horne.

Private, semi-private and teaching packages are the same for both courses: • Private Lessons, start at $60 for a 45-minute lesson up to $250 for a series of five.

• Semi-Private Lessons (two or more), start at $50/ student for a 60-minute lesson up to $200/student for a series of five.

July 31, 2009 • Playing Lesson, one hour of play with pro, $99.

• Golf Schools, one-day school (three hours of intensive instruction), $149; two-day school (six hours of intensive instruction), $275.

on-course lesson; three to six people, $30/person and $100/person for a series of four sessions.

Riverside at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Fairmont, 250-345-6346

Head professional Craig Millar, member of the CPGA, offers both private lessons and golf clinics at Spur Valley Greens. Clinics focus on a short game or a long game, depending on the participant’s needs.

• Private Lessons, $45 for a 30-minute lesson or a three-lesson package for $125.

• Clinics, offered weekends, from $10-$20 each.

There are three golf courses at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, but lessons are taught solely at Riverside Golf Course by CPGA golf professionals Billy Kulyk and Duane Storcer. Private, semi-private and golf clinics are available: • Private and Semi-Private Lessons, $79 for a onehour lesson, $49 for a 30-minute lesson and $139 for a couple’s lesson.

• Clinics, adult clinics run from Tuesday to Friday at 10:30 a.m. for $25/person.

Greywolf Golf Course, Panorama, 250-341-4100 Greywolf Golf Course has four CPGA golf professionals to help your game. Chad Thomlinson, Gavin Moran, Scott McLean and Mike Irwin teach private and group lessons for all ages and abilities: • Private Lessons, start at $50 for a 30-minute and $85 for a 60-minute lesson, up to $275 for a series of four. You can also play the course with a professional, $100 for 5 holes and $150 for 9.

• Group Lessons, couples: $40/person for a 60-minute lesson and $130/person for a five-hole

Spur Valley Greens, Spur Valley 250-347-6500

Windermere Valley Golf Course, Windermere, 250-342-3004 Windermere Valley offers private and semi-private lessons and golf schools. Two members of the CPGA, Dale Moore and Casey Johnson; as well as a member of the Ladies’ Professional Golf Association, Shelley Thomsen, are ready to help. Options are: • Private Lessons, $79 for 60 minutes, $209 for a series of three lessons and $299 for a series of five.

• Semi-Private Lessons, $129 for a 90-minute lesson for two people.

• Golf Schools, includes 18 holes with a cart and focuses on all aspects of the game, one-day school with three hours of instruction, $239/person; two-day school with seven hours of instruction, $499/person; and a three-day school with 10 hours of instruction, $799/person.

Play Canada’s truest mountain golf experience • Play twilight for just $89 everyday.

• 9 holes for just $54.

• 9 & dine for just $59. 9 & dine includes $10 towards your meal at Carrick’s restaurant.

• Call for twilight and 9 hole start times.

• Visit greywolfgolf.com to see current course conditions.

NEW for 2009!

Juniors Staying at Panorama Golf FREE*!

This season, juniors 17 & under may golf for free after 6:30pm excluding Saturdays and Sunday August 2nd. *Juniors must be staying with Panorama Mountain Village & be accompanied by a paying adult.

Award Winning, Licensed, Family Dining

GREAT FOOD ( Just ask anyone)

Special Music And Event Nights

PATIO OPEN!

(Weather permitting)

Check out our 1968 British-Leyland “Hoodoojooce” Double-Decker Juice Bus 1 KM south of Fairmont at the Hoodoos

250-345-2166

Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer ~ 5

July 31, 2009

When cycling the Columbia Valley, remember that safety is crucial

By Adrian Bergles Columbia Valley Cycling Society Cycling is a terrific activity for everyone in the family, and the Columbia Valley is a great place to get out and be on a bike. No matter which style of riding you prefer, a pre-ride thought about your gear and the performance of your bike will make your experience more enjoyable and help keep you and those you love safe.

The basics of bike safety gear for any cyclist are: a properly fitted and well-adjusted helmet; shoes; gloves; and sunglasses.

Due to mostly rolling terrain in the expansive Columbia Valley, these are a mandatory starting point for any cyclist who would like to enjoy the trails safely.

And never mind riding the road without a helmet — in B.C., it is illegal for anyone to ride the road, whether in town or on the highway, without a helmet.

Cycling gear can be expensive; however, a helmet doesn’t have to be. Any helmet in either local bike shop — Columbia Cycle or Rob’s Bicycle Works — will have passed safety tests which allow it to be sold in

Canada. Staff at these shops will help you fit a helmet that is both functional and comfortable.

If you don’t already wear a helmet while cycling, take it from me — someone who has been regularly wearing a cycling helmet for years — after beginning

“If you don’t wear a helmet it’s likely because you don’t have anything worth protecting!”

– Adrian Bergles to use a helmet you will soon feel naked without one.

The peace of mind is worth the price and, as they say, if you don’t wear a helmet it’s likely because you don’t have anything worth protecting!

Like helmets, sunglasses need not be expensive. All you need is something that will keep straying branches from poking your eyes while on the trail, or in the case of road biking, protect your eyes from debris and the wind associated with high-speed road bikes.

Shoes and gloves help protect you in case of an unexpected dismount — which from time-to-time

happens to even the most experienced cyclist.

Bikes are beautifully simple and a well-working bike will provide its rider with a safe and enjoyable ride. For example, worn-out or poorly functioning tires and brakes pose a serious safety hazard on the trail or road.

Likewise, misfiring gears, while not especially dangerous, are a threat to the enjoyment of your ride.

We’ve all seen the guy or girl grinding up a hill in an impossibly large gear, legs turning painfully slowly because of broken or poorly adjusted shifting. Don’t suffer; make it easier on yourself.

All bikes require maintenance. If you haven’t had your bike serviced this year, take it in. Regular tuneups are reasonably priced and both local shops will happily service your rig and make it road or trail-worthy. Avid cyclists service their bikes after most rides.

This is not necessary for casual riders but a properlyfunctioning bike is. Listen to your bike. Look after it and it will look after you.

For more information on the outstanding local cycling scene, including trail reports, visit www.columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org.

Summer is Sizzling at Copper Point!

Great weather, great golf, great savings.

Enjoy everything Copper Point has to offer at our Sizzling Summer event – summer specials, summer refreshments and summer fun!

Visit our Golf Shop July 31 – August 3 and take advantage of our Sizzling Summer savings; men’s shirts 2 for 1, 35% off all regular priced apparel and 20% off all shoes and socks. With our wide selection of merchandise, we’ll make sure you look good on or off the course!

Call 250-341-3392

copperpointgolf.com

Enjoy The View The View offers the perfect way to spend a summer day – relaxing on the patio with a refreshing drink while indulging in one of our menu selections that feature some of B.C.’s fresh ingredients.

Join Copper Point’s Rewards Program For every dollar you spend at Copper Point, you earn a 3% credit towards the purchase of any merchandise or equipment in our Golf Shop. The more you play, shop, eat and drink, the more you get. Join today!

6 ~ Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 31, 2009

Taste the world in valley restaurants

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff There is a wide range of cuisine available in the Columbia Valley, from top-quality steak to modern dishes with flair, or burgers that will make your mouth water.

And if you’re after something a little different, you can find that here, too!

From Radium to Fairmont you will find an array of international cuisine from farflung countries.

Here is The Pioneer’s list of favourite foreign food finds.

North Valley Citadella, 5067 Madsen Road, Radium Hot Springs. Phone 250-347-9548.

Located on a mountain peak with beautiful views of Radium and the Columbia Valley, Citadella serves authentic Hungarian food. The menu features dishes such as pork Bakony style: slices of pork with sour cream, mushrooms and bacon, served with Hungarian dumplings called galushka.

Helna’s Stube, 7547 Main Street West, Radium Hot Springs. Phone 250-347-0047.

This Austrian eatery can be found on Main Street West in Radium. House specialties include mushroom schnitzel: a pork loin breaded and served in a whitewine mushroom cream sauce with spaetzle, an Austrian noodle dish.

La Cabina Ristorante, 7493 Main Street West, Radium Hot Springs. Phone 250-347-2340.

Fine Italian cuisine is the name of the game at this fine restaurant, found inside the Prestige Radium. Try the pollo alla Roma – chicken wrapped in prosciutto with asparagus and Italian cheese in a rich red wine sauce.

Luxor Creek Cantina, Spur Valley Greens Golf Course, 22 kilometres north of Radium on Highway 95. Phone 250-347-9051.

For Tex-Mex meals, head to Spur Valley Greens.

On the menu you’ll find such yummy dishes as Tacos El Carbon: charbroiled sirloin steak rolled in a tortilla with fried onion, tomato, and melted cheeses then topped with sour cream, guacamole, and black olives.

The Old Salzburg, 4943 Highway 93, Radium Hot Springs. Phone 250-347-6553.

In a traditional Austrian-style chalet, you’ll find all the schnitzel and spatzle you could want! Visit for the Jaegerrostbraten: tender beef in a red wine sauce with bacon, ham, mushroom, onions and cranberries.

Central Valley The Black Forest Restaurant, 540 Highway 93/95, Windermere. Phone 250-342-9417.

On Highway 93/95 at the Invermere turn-off, The Black Forest is decorated inside with Bavarian murals and the servers wear traditional costume. Check out the jaeger schnitzel Hubertus: beef tenderloin sautéed with mushrooms, ham and tomatoes in a delicate cream sauce.

Fubuki Sushi, 315-3rd Avenue, Athalmer.

Phone 250-342-2442.

The newest addition to valley cuisine, Fubuki Sushi can be found in Athalmer, opposite Syndicate Boardshop. Boasting an authentic tatimi room, you can try all kinds of Japanese dishes, including edamame beans, miso soup and chicken teriyaki. Top it off with a glass of sake.

König Meat and Sausage Company, 1210-7th Avenue, Invermere. Phone 250-342-9661.

This delicatessen in Invermere sells all kinds of bratwurst, marinated meats and made-to-order sandwiches. Eat at the tables inside, or fire up the barbecue at home.

Continued on Page 7 . . .

Lunch & Dinner

315 3rd Avenue, Invermere

(Located next to the Eatery across from the Syndicate Board Shop)

Reservations suggested.

fubukisushi.com

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Full catering services & take out available.

Private Tatami room for groups.

f is h

free tea.. free edamame..

big 250.342.2442 m a dre Now Open 7 days a week

Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer ~ 7

July 31, 2009

Pleiades Massage & Spa • Massage • The All Natural Face Renewal • Red Rock Wraptures • Body Polish • Aromatherapy Steam Room • “Living Water”

The Wellness Spa, Radium Hot Springs Pool

250•347•2100 • www.pleiadesmassage.com/radium

Kim Matsalla and her son Geoff Davidson, both of Invermere, enjoy sushi rolls at Fubuki Sushi in Athalmer.

Continued from Page 6 . . .

Mei Mei’s Asian Market, #106, 901-7th Avenue, Invermere. Phone 250-342-6347.

In Parkside Place, Invermere, this grocery store sells fresh, authentic sushi and a huge variety of Chinese teas. You can also pick up hard-to-find Asian ingredients.

Oriental Palace, 925-7th Avenue, Invermere.

Phone 250-342-8308.

In downtown Invermere, this Chinese mainstay has all your favourites. Try the ginger beef, hot and sour soup or Cantonese chow mein.

The Windy Café, 4730 Government Street, Windermere. Phone 250-342-6001.

Downtown Windermere might only have one restaurant, but it’s a good one! The Windy Café serves Chinese food in a cute little cottage. Try the beloved pork dumplings. Made from scratch in the restaurant, they’re served with chilli oil and red vinegar.

South Valley Tony’s Greek Grill, 5009 Hot Springs Road, Fairmont. For info: 250-345-6661.

Located in a modest kiosk in Fairmont, there is nothing modest about the taste at this Greek eatery.

Order popular dishes like donairs, souvlaki, falafel or calamari and eat outside with the glorious mountains as a backdrop.

FAMILY FUN CENTRE

-Pool Tables - Golf Simulators - Licensed Lounge - Ice Cream Parlour 250-342-Bowl (2695) Located on Highway 93/95 between the crossroads & Windermere

Elevate Your Game – Elevate Your Dining Experience Service Beyond™ Situated on the cliffs of the Columbia River Valley with unparalleled views of the Rockies, Purcells and Lake Windermere. Always immaculate, our award winning course conditions are yours to discover. The Golf Shop carries designer golf labels and resort wear. Enjoy upscale dining in our new clubhouse.

Call 250-342-0562 to make a reservation today or visit www.eagleranchresort.com

Massage Energy Balancing Spa Packages Men’s Packages Esthetics Wellness & Beauty Products Open 7 days a week 518 13th Street Invermere 250-341-3511 Fusionwellnessspa.com

8 ~ Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 31, 2009

Shop ‘til you drop: The Pioneer’s guide for bargain hunters Not into golf? If you love to hunt for the best deal ever or one-of-a-kind knick-knack to take home with you, The Columbia Valley has something for everyone. Read on for The Pioneer’s guide for bargain hunters and diehard shoppers . . .

By Pioneer Staff The Columbia Valley may be far from the city, but local stores feature a little bit of the best of urban shopping.

Downtown Invermere, Radium’s Main Streets and the mall block of Fairmont are great places to browse.

Radium

• N’Deco Interiors and Full View Curtains, #3, 7585 Main Street West — At the southern end of Main Street West, these two stores are joined together to make a shopper’s haven.

You’ll find an array of homewares

and window furnishings, as well as stylish gifts for the house and home.

Invermere

• Bavin Glassworks, 4884A Athalmer Highway, at the Invermere crossroads — After turning towards Invermere from the highway, stop at the shopping strip on the right-hand side.

Local glass artists create and sell their art at this 20-year valley institution. From Tuesdays to Saturdays, you might even see the artists blowing glass in the kiln on site.

Continued on Page 9 . . .

Lauree Kopetsky of Winnipeg browses Nostalgia in Invermere.

Photo by Sally Waddington

Engineered for the Worlds Harshest Climates

CHECK OUT OUR RUNNING SPA IN OUR SHOWROOM, HOT AND READY TO USE WITH NO HEATER! ASK US HOW. • SALES • SERVICE • SPA & POOL CHEMICALS • WATER MAINTENANCE • CHEMICALS • GAZEBOS • SAUNAS • MASSAGE CHAIRS • FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIAN • FINANCING AVAILABLE AND FREE WATER TESTING

503B - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-3922 • www.valleyspas.ca

Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer ~ 9

July 31, 2009 . . . Continued from Page 8 • Be Gifted, #3, 1206-7th Avenue — Right in the heart of Invermere’s downtown strip, Be Gifted has a large collection of kitchen products, candles, knickknacks and gourmet food items. It’s a good starting place for gift shopping.

• Candyland, #2, 1206-7th Avenue — This is the place for the kid in everyone. Rows of candy will test your diet, and the handmade chocolates will push you over the edge! Make up the ground with fresh frozen yoghurt in a variety of flavours.

• Dave’s Book Bar, 1046-7th Avenue — Despite the name, Dave’s Book Bar has much more than an extensive range of books. Also on offer are magazines, gift cards and stationary, candles, beauty products and decor.

• Details By JoAnne, #100, 901-7th Avenue — Located in Parkside Place, Details has racks and racks of the latest fashion – from sundresses to suits. It’s a great place to get kitted out for summer.

• Essentials Department Store, 729-12th Street — This massive shop opposite the post office has a large inventory of craft and sewing goods, but it’s also a good place to shop for family clothing at a low price.

• Grant’s Food Bins, #3, 503-7th Avenue — Gourmet foodies will drool in this small grocery. As well as an array of unique spices and local meats, Grant’s has frozen meals, party platters and healthy snacks.

• Hippichic Boutique, #108, 901-7th Avenue — Embrace your free spirit in this diverse clothing store.

You’ll find hippie and vintage fashion, but also bags, gifts and homewares.

• Home Hardware, 9980 Arrow Road, at the Invermere crossroads — Barbecues, paint, homewares and garden ornaments – you name it and you can find it at Home Hardware. The Columbia Valley’s largest store has competitive prices, too.

• Inside Edge Boutique and Sports, 905-7th Avenue — On Invermere’s main street, Inside Edge stocks a wide range of men’s and women’s sportswear. During summer it’s a great place to find swimwear. Don’t miss the handmade Potatosac Company bags.

• Interior World, 926-7th Avenue — Built in a restored church, Interior World stocks just about everything you need for the home, from furniture to kitchen supplies to decor. Don’t miss the old-fashioned Lake Windermere signs at the door.

• Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Shop, 1313-7th Avenue — On a budget? Fear not! You’ll be amazed by the treasures you can find at Invermere’s thrift store for just some spare change. It’s open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Monkey’s Uncle Toy and Gift Company, 12257th Avenue — Watch the kids’ faces light up with glee when you open the door of this toy haven. There are games and fun for every age – even Mums and Dads!

• Nostalgia, #104B, 1021-7th Avenue — Step back in time in this antiques store. As well as china, jewellery and furniture, there is an array of quirky giftware and the ever-popular Rocky Mountain Soap.

• Scrappy-Do’s, #1, 1206-7th Avenue — Your

creative side will find joy in this scrapbooking and paper crafts store. Inspiration abounds!

• Summit Footwear, 1209-7th Avenue — Try some things to tickle your toes’ fancy in Invermere’s only dedicated shoe store. As well as exercise and hiking shoes, there are fashion shoes for men, women and children. Try out the yoga gear, too.

• Te Papa Nui Antiques & Collectibles, #6, 1340 Industrial Road #3, Athalmer — This enormous store in Invermere’s industrial park is packed chock-a-block clear to the rafters with quality antique furniture from around the world.

• Tiffany’s Thredz, 1201-7th Avenue — Take your pick from stylish casual, work and formal attire in this clothing store. With two floors, there is enough stock to keep you browsing for a while!

• Three Bears Gift Shop, #101, 901-7th Avenue — The newest addition to Parkside Place, this gift store is full of modern gifts. No matter who you’re shopping for, Three Bears has a product handy.

• Village Arts, 1045-7th Avenue — This store is actually an artists’ collective. Local artists display their handcrafted works for sale. The pieces can be any range – the only constant is the quality artisanry.

Fairmont

• Fairmont Village Gift Shop, #5-4992 Fairmont Frontage Road — You could browse for ages in this store. As well as huge variety of giftware, there are toys, games, clothing, and garden ornaments. Most Unique Award goes to the angel-food cake air fresheners!

Green Fees Starting from $15 to $28

“great value in the valley” • Tune up your swing with NOW OFFERING: Craig Millar, CPGA Green up your winter professional • 20/20 Friday Date Night • Warm up or cool down at Includes: blues at Spur Valley!

The Luxor Creek Cantina where the locals eat.

• Breakfast Club $31 until 11:00 a.m. Monday – Friday

$20 Green Fees per person.

20% OFF all food items anytime after 2:00 p.m.

For Information & Tee-Times Phone (250) 347-6500 www.spurvalley.com

Drop in and see our collections of Antiques, Collectibles and Retro items

10 ~ Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 31, 2009

We supply parts and service FOR ALL MAKES of: • snowmobiles • motorcycles • quads

Clip this out for 20% off anything in the store!

3 floors of antiques and collectibles

1525 Cranbrook St. N., Cranbrook

(250) 489-2106

Open 7 days a week

expires September 30th 2009

Whether it’s challenging whitewater, family rafting or wetland float trips – Kootenay River Runners will fulfill your spirit of adventure!

• Raft world-class whitewater on the Kicking Horse River • Bring your family for fun, food and adventure on the Kootenay River • Experience Toby Creek Whitewater Fun • Enjoy the Columbia River Wetlands Float Radium Hot Springs: On Highway #93 • (250) 347-9210

1-800-599-4399 info@raftingtherockies.com • www.raftingtherockies.com

For complete maps of the area, pick up a copy of the Columbia Valley Map Book or visit our website at: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com.

JUNIPER TRAIL­—The mighty Sinclair Falls, above, sets the stage for a trip on the other-worldly Juniper Trail in Radium Hot Springs. At right, a sign marks Peace Park, “a place of silence” along the Juniper Trail.

Photos by Cayla Gabruck

Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer ~ 11

July 31, 2009

Juniper Trail hike

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff Newcomers to the valley will be amazed at what beauty lies right at the roadside.

The Juniper Trail, located just inside the Kootenay National Park gate in Radium, is a perfect example – it’s beautiful and walkable.

I recently had the pleasure of a guided tour of the trail by long-time Radium councillor Ron Verboom, but you won’t need a guide . . . not after reading this.

We started out at 9 a.m., a time I would recommend because, although most of the trail is shaded, it gets a little warm near the end.

Before starting the trail, heed my two bits of advice: one, bring mosquito repellent; and two, strap on your best pair of running/hiking shoes.

If you are coming from central Alberta, where the steepest incline is something on the order of the Athalmer hill, don’t be scared. I know the word “hike” sounds scary, but the Juniper Trail is not that bad. Yes, there is a hill, but how else can you get to the top of Sinclair Canyon to enjoy the breathtaking view of the wetlands? And it’s not that steep. You are free to climb at your own pace through a series of gradually-inclining switchbacks.

The trail head is located in a pull-out on the north side of Highway 93, about 10 metres east of the Kootenay park gate. After descending a series of log-cribbed steps, you arrive at what seems like a completely different world – the cool dampness of the Sinclair Creek, the lush green vegetation surrounding it, and the delicious freshness in the air that only a waterfall can bring. If you cut off the trail just a bit to your right, you will get a better view of Sinclair Falls, set on the backdrop of the canyon high above – a great spot for photos.

The neat thing about this trail is the number of options. After reaching the top of the canyon and making the jaunt downhill, you have the opportunity to stop, or you can continue on past the hot pools and up to the grassy meadows of the Red Streak restoration area. Again, once you reach the top you can take the trail back down to the parking lot, or if you are in for the long haul, cross the meadow and continue on through Red Streak Campground, finishing at the Radium Visitor Centre.

I guarantee you will love this trail – and the best thing is that I saw only one other person! It’s a unique experience, smack-dab in the middle of Radium.

Part of the Juniper trail is used for the Headbanger Trail Challenge in September. This 10.8-kilometre trail run is a fundraiser for the Friends of Kootenay Park. For more information on the Juniper Trail or the Headbanger Trail Challenge contact the Radium Visitor Centre at 250-347-9331.

AT COPPERSIDE...

Excellence is par

for the course CopperSide Luxury Mountain Residences is the final phase of Lakeview Meadows, Invermere’s most desirable new community.

Imagine... a golf course in your back yard, paved trails to your own private beach on Lake Windermere in your front yard, plus magnificent mountain views from both. CopperSide has all this and more!

Consisting of just 26 luxuriously appointed residences, CopperSide’s exceptional location, peaceful natural setting and unparalleled amenities combine to make it the finest recreational/retirement property in the Columbia Valley.

Visit us soon for a tour and see why life at CopperSide really is as good as it gets.

FREE LIFETIME GOLF MEMBERSHIP! Purchase a 2 or 3 bedroom luxury condominium in CopperSide Luxury Mountain Residences and receive a free lifetime golf membership to Copper Point Golf Course (adjacent to the property).* * Limited time offer.

880 Lakeview Drive, Lakeview Meadows, Invermere, B.C. Show Suite open daily 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Phone 250-688-0512 • www.coppersidecondos.com

12 ~ Play ’n’ Stay • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

July 31, 2009

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