ROAD TRIP Through British Columbia’s Okanagan and the International Selkirk Loop, Part I Story and Photos By Marguerite Cleveland
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here is nothing like a good road trip during the summer, especially when the scenery is so lovely. This trip begins at the OrovilleOsoyoos Border Crossing into British Columbia’s Okanagan for part one of this two-part series. The second part of the trip continues onto the International Selkirk Loop through the Kootenay Rockies before crossing the border at the Porthill-Rykerts Border Crossing into Idaho and visiting the towns of Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry.
When planning a road trip, make a detailed itinerary mapping out how far you want to drive each day and make reservations for where you are going to stay each night. Use online resources (see some suggestions in The Specifics at the end of the article) and determine any places or activities for the day. Have a plan but be open to spontaneous stops. Often a local may recommend a hidden gem that is not well known, so you want to take advantage of those opportunities. The nice thing about a road trip is you can pack extra comfort items. Throw in a few portable chairs for stargazing, a blanket or two for chilly evenings, some beach towels for the many lakes on this trip, and be sure to pack a cooler and picnic basket. Day 1: Osoyoos Once across the border, continue to the town of Osoyoos—your destination for the night. The Nk’Mip Resort, set in the heart of Canada’s only desert, has a variety of interesting activities. Start at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, a natural history museum from the perspective of the indigenous peoples. The Osoyoos Indian Band are members of the Okanagan Nation, and more than 400 members live and work on the Osoyoos Indian Reserve. Plan to spend a few hours here exploring both the indoor and outdoor exhibits. The centre is housed in an eco-friendly building using native and modern techniques. Allow time to take the loop trail outside the museum to explore the desert while viewing an Osoyoos village. For lunch visit Nk’Mip Cellars for an alfresco lunch overlooking Osoyoos Lake. The cellars are the first winery in North America owned and operated by an indigenous band. Enjoy tasting some award-winning wines. Make sure to try Mer’R’iym, the Nk’Mip word for marriage.
BonnersFerryLivingLocal.com
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