Winter Go&Do 2018/2019

Ainsworth • Balfour • Castlegar • Creston • Fruitvale • Kaslo • Nakusp • Nelson • New Denver • Rossland • Salmo • Sandon • Slocan Valley • Trail

THE

WEST KOOTENAY BC ❤ Canada

FREE

Regional Magazine

&

As the morning’s ice fog 18 | 2019 Winter 20 lifted and drifted, the sun burned through setting the mountain aglow, highlighting what was to be a most spectacular day on Red. ~ #gokootenays

Real Winter.

Real Fun.

www. gokootenays #gokootenays - share the adventure! .com 2018 | 19

West Kootenay Go & Do www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

@gokootenays

GO & DO Winter

1

Kꝏtenay Lake

Glacier Outdoor Aqua Spa Hot Pool

Experience the finest accommodations in the Kootenays.

Corporate Retreats, Family Reunions, Weddings and Group Events.

Heavenly beds and continental breakfast. His and her spa packages.

Outdoor spa and complimentary executive golf course.

Easy access to outdoor winter adventures like: x-country and downhill ski areas, snowshoe and sledding areas and winter lake fishing! Relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs in nearby Ainsworth.

Dine well in the local restaurants & pubs. Enjoy eclectic shopping in Balfour, Nelson or Kaslo.

Explore quaint historic towns.

SPECIAL LOW SEASON RATES! BOOK THE ENTIRE RESORT!

Kootenay Lakeview Spa Resort & Event Centre Call Toll Free: 1.877.229.4141 ~ Balfour Email: reservations@kootenaylakeviewresort.com

BYOB and Food!

kootenaylakeviewresort.com

Luxury Rooms In Historic Downtown Kaslo.

• Private balconies • Lake & mountain views • Stunning views from our patio • Relax & unwind in the Pub with locally crafted beers & delicious food OPEN DAILY UNTIL LATE

(FOOD SERVED UNTIL 9 PM) Check out our website & facebook page for music & events

250-353-7714

Toll Free: 866-823-1433 430 Front Street, Kaslo, BC

info@kaslohotel.com www.kaslohotel.com 2

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Ainsworth............ 37 Balfour................. 36 Castlegar............. 14 Fruitvale . ............ 35 Kaslo .................. 40 Nakusp ............... 44 Nelson ................ 18

Nelson Map......... 28 New Denver ....... 43 Rossland ............. 12 Salmo ................. 32 Trail ...................... 6 Winter Markets.... 48 WK Ferries............. 5

WK WK WK WK

Dining........... 49 Events........... 47 Map................ 4 Snow............ 10

For All Your Currency Exchange Needs

Woodbury........... 38

kootenay currency exchange

ON THE COVER:

Red Mountain Ski Resort is historically significant to ski racing in BC and Canada as a whole. In 2012 Rossland’s Red Mountain and Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson, shared between them the great honour of being named the #1 Ski Community in North America…an honour bestowed upon them by Powder Magazine. Photo: Karma Halleran

Winter Pass Closures

When Kootenay Pass closes due to avalanche conditions, the MV Osprey ferry will run 24 hours until the pass re-opens. Usually, if the road is closed, it is a scheduled closure for avalanche risk mitigation. To find out when the scheduled closures are to begin and end, and which sections of your route are affected, check www.DriveBC.ca. Another very handy feature of this provincial website are the webcams. There are over thirty webcams in the West Kootenay, and the images you can see on the www.DriveBC site get updated at least twice an hour.

In the winter, it is reassuring to know in advance the weather and road conditions you will be encountering on your journey.

• Foreign exchange • Gold/silver bullion • Best rates when buying & selling USD 715 Vernon St, Nelson • 250-354-1441 Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm

$

$ Go & Do, West Kootenay Regional Guide • Printed in Canada. Published in Kaslo, BC 3 times a year.

For more information phone toll free 1-800-663-4619 Box 430, Kaslo, BC V0G 1M0 Copyright 2018 KS•Perry Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enquiries: email info@pennywiseads.com To advertise: 250-353-2602 (local) or 1-800-663-4619 To distribute: email distribution@pennywiseads.com

www.gokootenays.com

Creston & Area Vacation Accommodations

Columbia Basin Culture Tour Aug 10 & 11, 2019 10:00am - 5:00pm

The Downtowner Motor Inn

Aug 15, 2009

Explore artists’ studios, museums, art galleries and heritage sites through this free, self-guided10:00 am-5:00 tour pmwithin the Columbia Basin.

Located in the heart of the beautiful Creston Valley, just steps away from a wealth of entertainment and activities.

The Downtowner proudly provides guests with all the necessities to ensure an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Meet the artists, shop for fine art and craft, view demonstrations, special exhibitions, interpretive displays or chat with local historians during this two day cultural celebration!

1218 Canyon St, Creston 250-428-2238 1-800-665-9904 www.downtownercreston.com

Valley View Motel 15 cabin - like units nestled under

large cedars with a beautiful valley view, located between Hwys 3 & 21, beside the museum. Wireless internet; BBQ area; guest laundry; well-behaved pets welcome. Clean, quiet and affordable!

216 Valleyview Dr, Creston•Reserve: 1-800-758-9334 valleyview@telus.net • website: valleyviewmotel.info BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

Kootenays

Index Ferries

For further information visit

our website or call.

250-505-5505 toll free 1-877-505-7355 www.cbculturetour.com A project of

Funded by

Orde Creek Pottery

www.cbculturetour.com 250-505-5505 • 1-877-505-7355

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

3

West Kootenay Kootenay Lake

RIVERS, OCEANS AND MOUNTAINS SHOP 639 Baker St., Nelson

BACKCOUNTRY • SALES • RENTALS • SERVICE • 250-354-2056 • www.roamshop.com

Our Powder Playground...

Trout Lake

Galena Bay

Trout Lake

Halcyon Hot Springs

❄❆❅

❄❆❅ ❄

STELLAR HELISKIING

www.stellarheliskiing.com 430 Front St, Kaslo 1-888-366-0067 follow IG: #stellarheli

SUMMIT LAKE SKI HILL

Gerrard

THE LODGE AT ARROW LAKES

❆❄

Argenta

Lardeau

Hills

Needles

Fauquier

❄

New Denver Silverton

❄ ❆ gr

av

Legend: Skiing

d

Winlaw Harrop

Airport Hot Springs

Taghum

Slocan Park

Crescent Valley

Nelson South Slocan

Thrums

Lower Arrow Lake

Robson Pass Creek Brilliant Castlegar

Salmo

Christina Lake West on Hwy 3

Grand Forks

❆

Christina Lake

Cascade

4

Fruitvale Montrose

Rossland

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

Waneta

Pilot Bay

Nelway

www.skihikebc.com

Gray Creek

Northwest Mountain Experience Slocan 250-355-2701

Gray Creek Pass Road

Phoenix Mountain Ski Resort Grand Forks 250-444-6565

Procter

Powder Creek Lodge

❆

Purcells, 250-921-4700

Red Mountain Resort

Boswell

USA

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

Rossland 1-800-663-0105

Retallack Lodge

Sanca

❅ Kootenay Skyway

Trail Paterson

Mt Carlyle Lodge, Kaslo

Kootenay Lake

Ymir

Ice Creek Lodge, Winlaw 250-355-2647

Balfour

ro a

Passmore

Trout Lake 1-800-889-0765

Kootenay Lake

Ainsworth Riondel Hot Springs Kootenay Bay Crawford Bay

Slocan

❅

Ferry

el

Great Northern Snow-Cat Skiing

Mirror Lake Woodbury

Kokanee Glacier Park

Edgewood

Nelson (250) 352-0006

Sandon Kaslo

Valhalla Park

Baldface Lodge

Purcell Wilderness Conservancy

Retallack

Slocan Lake

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Johnson’s Landing

Summit Lake

Burton

www.cmhheli.com 515 Broadway St W Nakusp 1-800-663-0100 follow IG:#cmhheli

❅

Meadow Creek Cooper Creek

Nakusp

Arrow Park

www.skisummitlake.com 2915 Hwy 6, Naksup FB @skissummitlake 250-265-3312

Duncan Lake

Nakusp Hot Springs

Upper Arrow Lake

www.skisalmo.com

434 Salmo Ski Hill Rd, Salmo follow FB: @skisalmo 250-357-2323

Revelstoke Shelter Bay

SALMO SKI HILL

New Denver 250-358-2777

Selkirk Snowcat Skiing

Kuskonook

Meadow Creek 250-366-4424

Sirdar

White Grizzly Cat Ski

Meadow Creek 250-366-4306

Erickson Creston Valley Wildlife Area

Whitewater Ski Resort Nelson/Ymir 1-800-666-9420

Creston

Ymir Back country Skiing Lodge Rykerts

glacier@kootenayexperience.com

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kootenay Lake Ferry Connects Highway 3A at Balfour from Kaslo or Nelson on the west side to Kootenay Bay on the Eastshore, Creston side.

It is the longest free ferry ride in the world at close to 40 minutes.

Arrow Lakes Ferries Nakusp to Vernon Lower Arrow Lake crossing: Fauquier-Needles connects the West Kootenay to the Okanagan, Nakusp Vernon.

Crossing time: 5 minutes

West Kootenay Kootenays

West Kootenay Ferries - All Ferries Are Free!

Nakusp To Revelstoke Upper Arrow crossing: Galena Bay to Shelter Bay, connecting the West Kootenay to the East Kootenay, Revelstoke, the Trans Canada Hwy and beyond ...

Leaves Shelter Bay (Nakusp side) once an hour, on the hour, 5am – 12 midnight Leaves Galena Bay (Revelstoke side) once an hour on the half hour, 5:30am –12:30 am.

Arrow Park Ferry On demand.

Fauquier (Nakusp Side) starts at 5am and runs to 10pm every 30 minutes

Needles (Vernon Side) starts at 5:15am and runs to 9:45pm every 30 minutes

General Enquiries: 250-265-2105 DriveBC.com Know before you go!

The Balfour signal light at the inlet to the West Arm. Kootenay Lake is 99 km long, and has many moods... Photo: K Halleran

On demand 10pm to 5am

Kootenay Lake Ferry Year Round Schedule Balfour

Vessel Name

Osprey 2000 Osprey 2000 Osprey 2000

MV Balfour

Osprey 2000

Kootenay Bay

All Year

Summer

All Year

6:30 am

6:30 am

7:10 am

8:10 am

8:10 am

10:40 am

9:50 am

10:40 am

11:30 am

11:30 am

12:20 pm

12:20 pm MV Balfour

7:10 am

9:00 am

9:00 am

9:50 am

Summer 10:40 am

11:30 am

12:20 pm

1:10 pm

Osprey 2000

1:10 pm

1:10 pm

2:00 pm

2:00 pm

Osprey 2000

2:50 pm

2:50 pm

3:40 pm

3:40 pm

Osprey 2000

4:30 pm

4:30 pm

5:20 pm

5:20 pm

Osprey 2000

6:10 pm

6:10 pm

7:00 pm

7:00 pm

Osprey 2000

9:40 pm

9:40 pm

10:20 pm

2:00 pm 2:50 pm MV Balfour 3:40 pm MV Balfour MV Balfour Osprey 2000

7:50 pm

5:20 pm

7:50 pm

8:40 pm

4:30 pm 6:10 pm

8:40 pm

10:20 pm

All times are Pacific (Balfour) time.

Sometimes you need to line up early. Check the ferry cam: www.eastshoreinternet.ca/ferry-cam-kootenay-bay BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

5

Trail

SOLD

Renting & Selling Quality Cars at Great Prices • compacts • mid size • full size

• 15 passenger vans • minivans • moving trucks • SUVs • pickups

Real Estate

Drive a Good Bargain!

Trail 250-364-0211 • Nelson 250-352-5122 Creston 250-428-9343 • Castlegar 250-365-1980

trail@practicar.ca

www.practicar.ca

ALL PRO REALTY EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Trail, BC

We’ve revisited.

You should, too.

THE SIGN YOU WANT The agent you need: Mario Berno Joy DeMelo Keith DeWitt Wayne DeWitt Thea Hanson Nathan Kotyk Denise Marchi Jack McConnachie Erin McKenzie Jake Swanson Katie Yuris

1252 Bay Ave., Trail

250.368.1027 250.368.1960 250.231.8187 250.368.1617 250.231.1661 250.231.9484 250.368.1112 250.231.5222 250.231.4488 250.231.6412 250.231.4427

250.368.5000

remax5000@shaw.ca www.allprorealty.ca www.facebook.com/allprorealty2016ltd/

tourismtrailbc.ca

Let us tantalize your taste buds with our signature slow roasted prime rib, flame broiled steaks, homemade burgers, soups and salads.

Sunday is Caesar Sunday

Caesar & appetizer specials all day long!

Monday is All Day Wing Day...

Buy any jug of beer & get FREE wings.

Wednesday is Wine Wednesday All varieties on special!

3 Schofield Hwy, Trail 250-368-3360 benedictssteakhouse.ca

7 Ice Cold Beers on Tap 1505 Bay Ave. • 250-364-0821 6

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

Neighbourhood Pub

HAPPY HOUR

Mon – Sat, 1–5:30pm

Open Monday to Saturday at 11am, Sunday at 12 noon

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Trail had not yet come into being when the Dewdney Trail was started in 1860 to serve as a trade route from the coast to the BC interior. Adopting the name from the Dewdney Trail, the settlement on the legendary route was originally known as Trail Creek.

The City of Trail owns and operates a regional airport that makes daily runs to and from Vancouver. The airport makes the BC snow belt very accessible for skiers and snowboarders who want to check out the Red Mountain vibe or the many other incomparable back country experiences to be had in the West Kootenay.

Over the years, Trail has become the home of a very large Italian community that has contributed to the city’s distinctive character. Some say the best Italian food in the province is to be enjoyed here, along with traditional Italian games and festivals.

Like hockey? Doesn’t everyone love hockey? The locals are especially proud of their home team – the Trail Smoke Eaters occupy a prestigious place in Canadian hockey lore. This small city won the World Championship in 1961, and you can still feel that pride resonating today. Trail citizens are well known for taking all their sports very seriously, not just hockey. If you have a chance to take in a Smoke Eaters game, arrive a little early at the Trail Memorial Centre so you can spend some time in the Trail Sports Hall of Fame.

As you explore this city, perched on the hillside and held in place by amazing handbuilt rock walls, mostly created between 1920 and 1960, you become aware that this city was placed here with purpose, and clearly with love and pride. Many of the original small homes still standing are testament to the bygone mining days, while newer buildings signal the renewed vitality of this progressive city.

Cutting edge technology is championed here, and is available to all who are interested. Visit the MIDAS Fab Lab if you want to discover how the future has arrived here in the present day. MIDAS stands for Metallurgical Industrial Development Acceleration and Studies. The lab is an accessible space with state of the art equipment including 3D printers and scanners, milling and woodworking equipment, an electronics lab and more. It’s a facility but it is also a nexus of creative collaboration; a blank slate for turning ideas into gold – or into a new hand or robotic gopher. Become a member or just drop in at 2950 Highway Dr, Trail to see what it is all about!

The small town friendliness, lifestyle, rich history, favourable climate and access to four-season and first-class recreational facilities make it easy and affordable to explore Trail. Are you passionate about recreation, technology or history? Trail has a story to tell you – you just have to visit to listen.

www.trail.ca follow us on #gokootenays

Kootenay Leathercraft

Quality Handmade Craftsmanship Damian Brazeau - Owner/Artist Custom designs • Repair Local products Handcrafted Leather Goods & Repairs 1338 Cedar Ave, Downtown Trail, BC 778-806-0445 kootenayleathercraft@gmail.com fb Kootenay Leathercraft

WHAT'S ON J A N 1 8 B U S H E L A N D P E C K Physical Comedy FEB 18 DUFFLEBAG THEATRE: R O M E O A N D J U L I E T Family Day show MAR 9 WORLDS OF PUPPETS: P E T E R A N D T H E W O L F Family show MAR 9 WORLDS OF PUPPETS: M E T A M O R P H O S I S 19 + puppet show M A R 2 9 T H E S L O C A N R A M B L E R S Bluegrass

INFO AT TRAIL-ARTS.COM 250-368-9669

Love Italian Food?

Love The

“Come Twirl With Us”

Italian family style dining featuring our world famous spaghetti dinner!

Shopping at Waneta Plaza?

Try the Colander Express - Pasta & More!

250-364-3060

And our banquet facility!

Lunch Hours: 11:30 am–2 pm Weekdays

BC Canada

The River Belle

1475 Cedar Ave, Trail • For Reservations 250-364-1816

www.gokootenays.com

Trail

Trail

The Silver City, set along the banks of the Columbia River, is steeped in rich mining history.

Just under 8,000 people call the area home, and it is one of BC’s important economic centres and the industrial heart of the Kootenays.

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

Dinner Hours: 4:30–8:30 pm Daily

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Trail

Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 7 years running

Heavenly Beds Free Full Hot Breakfast Buffet Onsite Casual Fine Dining Lounge Conference Facilities Free Wired & Wireless High Speed Internet Best of Best Westerns Worldwide (Top 1%!)

Green Key Hotel Phone: 250-368-3355

1001 Rossland Avenue, Trail, BC V1R 3N7 For reservations call 1-800-465-6682 Email: reservations@bestwesterntrail.com

www.bestwesterntrail.com

Phone: 250-368-3355 For reservations call 1-800-465-6682

2769 Glenwood Drive Trail, BC V1R 2S6

250-368-5522 Reservations

1-800-667-9544

reservations@glenwoodinnandsuites.com

• Indoor and Outdoor Pools • Hot Tub and Fitness Room • Free Breakfast • High Speed Wireless Internet

8

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

trail Charles Bailey Theatre

Columbia River Fishing:

There are always a few days in January and February, even in the harshest winter, when the weather is mild for a spell and the river is calling. Seize those days when they come and you’ll be rewarded with some nice fish. Mostly, at this time of year, it’s just shore fishing, or walking and wading since the boat launches are covered with snow. But the snow doesn’t keep the fish off the lines! On a good day (and aren’t all fishing days good days?) you could land more than 10 rainbows. The average size you’re apt to catch are in the 2 – 3 pound range with a few up to 5 pounds. Most big rainbows tend to feed near the bottom of the river. Before you go, check www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/ regulations/#Synopsis

Trail

Jan 10 The Joy of Cooking, Jazz at the Griff Jan 18 Bushel and Peck (physical comedy) Jan 30 Snowed in Comedy Tour, 8 pm Feb 5 Paige Culley 7:30 pm (dance) Feb 18 Romeo and Juliet, 3 pm (puppetry) Feb 26 MOTUS O Dance, 7:30 pm Mar 9 Peter and the Wolf 2 pm (puppetry) Mar 9 Metamorphosis 7:30 pm (puppetry) Mar 14 Laura Landsberg, 7:30 pm Mar 19 Lizzy Hoyt: New Lady on the Prairie Mar 25-30 Spotlight (youth theatre camp) Mar 29 Slocan Ramblers, 7:30 pm (bluegrass) April 2 ÔCelli: Cello Octet, 7:30 pm Apr 8-12 Kootenay Festival of the Arts

all day (dance, music) April 14 Bouge de là, 2 pm (dance) April 26 White Buffalo Storytelling, 7:30 pm April 28 Special Performance:

Kootenay Festival of the Arts

This mural, painted on a wall of the Riverbelle on Esplanade Street, shows volunteers staving off one of the worst floodings of Trail by the Columbia River. The year was 1948, and the river wall they built by hand stood the city in good stead when, in 1961, the river again reached dangerous heights. It wasn’t until the 1960s and the building of the Hugh Keenleyside dam that the mighty Columbia River was tamed and Trail citizens no longer had to fear inundation by its waters.

Smoke Eaters

The historic Trail Smoke Eaters, one of seventeen teams in the BC Hockey League.

All home games are at 7pm except for the Sunday, January 3 game at 3pm. The Smoke Eaters barn is the Trail Memorial Centre, 1051 Victoria Avenue.

Dec 19 vs Vernon Dec 21 vs Merritt Jan 4 vs Surrey Jan 11 vs Nanaimo Jan 13 vs Victoria Feb 1 vs Vernon Feb 2 vs Merritt Feb 8,9 vs Salmon Arm Feb 13 vs Penticton Feb 15 vs Langley Feb 23 vs W Kelowna

Ride to Red–Catch the Bus

Get to know and love early mornings in the ski season on Route 48. The Red Mountain Ski Bus operates on weekends and school holidays and it’s your trip up the hill from your hotel in Trail to Red Mountain.

Visit bctransit.com/west-kootenay/schedulesand-maps for the times. To hire a shuttle bus for your group that comes with the bonus of a driver who knows all the places to play in the snow, call 250-231-4305.

Your hand-made from scratch bakery High quality ingredients

Best Buns In Town!

Breads, buns and pastry Cakes are our specialty Everything you need in a bakery!

1447 Bay Ave, Trail

250-364-1 013 BC BCCanada Canada

www.gokootenays.com www.gokootenays.com

#gokootenays #gokootenays--share sharethe theadventure! adventure!

2018 2018| |19 19 GO GO&&DO DO Winter Winter

99

Kootenay Lake West Kootenay Snow

Real Winter.

The delights of winter take many forms.

We love powder adventures for the sunshine, the qualities of winter light, the feel of brisk air, and the joy of motion.

At high altitude, winter light can be knife sharp on a clear day, the bluest blue sky against the serrated edge of the peak.

While on the snowing days the light is soft and the edges blend. The colours are muted like the sounds, and the seasonal palette ranges from the brightest of whites through grey, blue, and green highlighted with the rusts and golds of last years growth.

All so extraordinarily beautiful in a quiet unassuming way, and you know that the possibilities are endless.

Stay and Play... if you don’t have your own skis, you can rent

almost everything required for a day’s adventure at sport shops in Kaslo, Nakusp, Nelson, Rossland and Trail. Every West Kootenay community now has snowshoe and/or cross country ski trails for you to take advantage of. In the nordic skiing areas, the trails are marked and you are likely to meet other enthusiasts, which always feels better when exploring new territory. The day-use fee at most areas that are groomed for skiing is around $10 or less, payable by the honour system at the trailhead. Skiing the slighter grades of the West Kootenay Railsto-Trails on the old deactivated railway lines are also a rewarding and slightly more adventurous outing.

You can often go forever or not so long, what ever you like.

Snowshoeing is the least expensive way to get into the deep snow. You can go places no xcountry ski will take you.

In Kaslo you can even experience a guided snowshoe outing with a local outfit called Between a Lake and a High Place.

10 10

2018 2018 || 19 19 GO GO & & DO DO Winter Winter

#gokootenays #gokootenays -- share share the the adventure! adventure!

www.gokootenays.com www.gokootenays.com

BC BC Canada Canada

West Kootenay Snow

Real Fun. photos courtesy of Kaslo BC BLACK DRAGON rises high above the deep pocket of the Bowling Alley in the Purcell mountain range in the West Kootenay.

Photo Nick Diamond Photography

Downhill Ski Areas

like Summit Lake and Salmo Ski Hill provide accessible, inexpensive, and patrolled venues to practice your basic telemark or downhill turn skills. You can rent everything you need and book lessons if you want them.

• www.skisalmo.com or • www.skisummitlake.com The celebrated Red Mountain Resort in Rossland, and Nelson’s Whitewater Ski Resort contributed to the honour bestowed upon the these two communities when they were named the Top Ski Towns in North America by Powder Magazine in 2012. They are well developed ski areas that offer more runs with greater variety... from the beginner green runs, to the leg-torching moguls on the double black diamonds that appeal to amazingly talented and crazy skiers (lol). Everyone of every level will find a favourite run or three that will keep you entertained and challenged.

• www.redresort.com • www.skiwhitewater.com

BC Canada

The Powder Highway is the big loop

Some outfits will snowcat you up and some will copter you up... either way you’ll be the star in your own ski movie experience. Treat yourself even just once in a lifetime. Make it a goal – put it on your bucket list – you won’t regret it.

that circles the East and West Kootenay, (and of which Red Mountain and Whitewater are a part) is really just the tip of the mountain top when it comes to skiing opportunities in the west.

See page 4 for area operators.

Your operators will transport you from valley bottoms to the best within their tenures that day, ‘cause they know all the nooks and crannies of these hills, intimately. They will feed you, guide you and tuck you in at night... They are the explorers of today, continuously prospecting new slopes, and ridgelines – seeking out new vistas and runs – seeking the best terrain for your ultimate pleasure.

www.gokootenays.com

provides a lighter, quieter, and more independent way to access the backcountry.

Whether you are going for a few hours, a day or overnight, make sure you and your buddies are prepared with the avalanche knowledge and the tools necessary to keep each other safe. Visiting the area?

Research the zone and talk to local clubs before setting out, and leave your game plan at home.

• • • • • •

Daytime Destinations...

Nakusp www.nakusptrails.ca Kaslo www.korsbc.blogspot.ca Nelson www.nordicski.ca Rossland www.skiblackjack.ca Castlegar www.castlegarnordic.ca Rossland www.rosslandrange.org The Bonnington Range, Stagleap and Kokanee Glacier Park draw the more experienced telemarkers.

There the cabins

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

• www.rippleridge.ca • www.alpineclubofcanada.ca • kootenaymountaineeringclub.ca

Sledding

Alpine or telemark touring

Within the powder loop are numerous small operators who offer boutique-style custom snow experiences for intermediate and expert skiers They offer world class pow – often deeper then a two storey house and as soft and light as a duck-down shower would feel... just picture it – your Best Day Ever will spent with one of these mountain men or women, miles from any city or town sinking and cresting the powder of your dreams.

are equipped for overnight stays. Reserve your cabins

is also a hugely popular pastime. With their trusty steeds beneath them, sledders can travel many miles into the back country, often packing a snowboard or shoes or skis with them for further exploration once they have gone as far as they can.

For others the new snowmobiles, become an extension of their daredevil selves.

Skilled riders can cut through deep powder, climb steep slopes, cat-walk and launch themselves over obstacles.

You’ve got to be fit to play this hard, All. Day. Long.

Meadow Mountain and Crusader Creek Cabins: Book at • www.nelsonsnogoers.com Castlegar/Beaver Valley: Through Castlegar Snowmobile Association • www.csasled.org or visit Barrett Motorsports in Fruitvale

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Rossland

“The mountains are calling and I must go.”

John Muir (1838-1914)

LOCALLY-INSPIRED CRAFT COOKING Warm your body and soul, while feasting among fellow adventurers, long-time and new-found friends.

Located slopeside at RED Mountain Resort, Rossland, B.C. THEJOSIE.COM | 4306 Red Mountain Rd | (250) 362 5155 12

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Rossland

Rossland

Steeped in a history rich in gold and silver mining, this picturesque alpine city is perched high in the Monashee Mountain range. When gold was discovered on Red Mountain by two transient prospectors in 1890, Rossland was quickly dubbed the Golden City.

Long before the stream of gold ran dry in 1928, Rossland had evolved as a leader in competitive skiing in North America. Olaus Jeldness of Norway, a successful miner who had come for the gold in 1896, realized the value of the naturally renewable resource that annually blanketed a challenging, yet inviting terrain. Already famous in his own country, Jeldness had the skills and confidence necessary to inspire those around him with his amazing feats on skis. He organized the first recorded Canadian ski competition in 1897. There are many stories about this legendary skier who was also a ski jumper and had set a record at age 15 for jumping 92 feet. The ‘father of competitive ski competition’ as he was known, was inducted into the Canadian Ski Hall of Fame in 1988.

RosslandWinterCarnival.com

This is the oldest winter carnival in Canada and is in its 121st year. It is the far-sighted vision of ski legend and founder Olaus Jeldness who initiated it in 1898.The carnival kicks off Thursday night, January 24, and ends on Sunday. Visit rosslandwintercarnival.com for event schedules closer to the time. The 4 days are jam packed and there are some events you don’t want to miss!!

Red Mountain

Skiing legendary Red is a must-do for any skier on the powder highway. The ski area is actually three big mountains, Red, Granite and Grey. With 2,877 total lift serviced acres of terrain (2,919 vertical feet), 110 marked runs plus 4,200 acres of easy to access back country, Red boasts a powerful potential for unforgettable skiing and boarding experiences for the whole family!

For the ultimate in backcountry touring, you’d be hard pressed to find as much variety and opportunity, with five different peaks easily accessible from the resort boundary. Guided backcountry tours are highly recommended, and are available through the resort.

New guest to Red Mountain Resort? Ask about the Snow Host program with free tours of the mountain. Stop by the guest services office for details. Tours depart twice daily from the base area.

Cross Country

Across the road from Red Mountain is the trailhead for the Blackjack cross-country ski trails. This area’s trails are expertly groomed for skate skiing and classic techniques. With three shelters and 40 km of groomed trails, Blackjack is a gateway to some of the most beautiful countryside winter has to offer. There is a 2.5 km lit night skiing loop, a terrain park for kids, a biathlon range and a doggy loop.

Visit www.skiblackjack.ca for more info.

Tour de Soup: Feb 2 Ski between the three cabins at Blackjack Cross Country Ski Area and get served hot soup made by Rossland’s restaurant chefs when you stop. A fun and free family event.

The Canadian Open Freeskiing Championship is in its 19th year and is the longest running freeski event in Canada. Watch the junior freeskiers rip crazy lines down Link’s Line.

runs between various points in Rossland and RED. For full details, visit www.rosslandskibus.ca or stop by at Kootenay Gateway in downtown Rossland at 2118 Columbia Ave. www.gokootenays.com

Can’t make it to the carnival? That’s alright, for such a small town there, it is truly impressive that you can find something original to watch or try out in any month of the winter. Here are just a few:

Canadian Open Freesking Championships: Jan 16–23

Rossland Ski Bus

BC Canada

Rossland Happenings

Craft Beer Festival:

March 15-16 Like snow? Like suds? Like to party? This growler of an alefest is your event. It’s at Red, at the bottom of the hill.

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Castlegar

looking for the best in greek cuisine, wander no more

the wandering

Greek Oven family restaurant

We L ov e

NOW OFFERING SOFT PRETZEL STICKS and POTATO SKINS!

Doing Cakes!

Open 7 days a week

In the

of Downtown Castlegar

7

$

Kalamari • Souvlaki • Steak • Lamb Many more in house made Greek specialties Children’s menu • Pizza • Pasta • Fish & Chips 400 Columbia Avenue, Castlegar 250-365-2311 • thewanderinggreekoven.com Pick-uP & Delivery SPecialS!

Home of the

MEAL DEAL! (includes dessert)

www.DQcakes.com 604 18th Street, Castlegar 250-365-5522

Featuring a

RECORD 34 SCULPTURES, this is our biggest year ever!

We want to express our gratitude to our sponsors for helping to make the 2018 Castlegar Sculpturewalk season a success! We look forward to another great Sculpturewalk season in 2019, and welcome all businesses, new and old, to sponsor a sculpture of their own.

Thank You To Our 2018 Platinum Sponsors!

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Castlegar

The City of Castlegar lies in a wide valley at the confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers. World class angling, snowshoeing, skiing, museums, plenty of restaurants and a fun nightlife scene make Castlegar a great choice for a winter vacation. So many options, so close!

Spend the day in town: Millennium Park (bottom of 5th Street) has a paved walkway, perfect for a morning stroll down by the riverside. If you’re with your dog, there’s a dog beach for a little runaround.

As the Sculpture Capital of Canada, Castlegar has public art is on display on many a corner.

There are some great one-of-a-kind little restaurants in the old downtown. Mosey around and decide where you’ll eat and where you might go out later.

Better work up an appetite first! Outdoor skating is a part of every Canadian child’s upbringing and in Castlegar, the best outdoor rink can be found at Kinnaird Park (2501 14th Avenue) near the baseball diamonds. It’s free and open every day 7am to 10pm and lit up during the evenings. The City of Castlegar works crew takes pride in ensuring the surfaces are as smooth as possible. There’s also public skating at the Castlegar Community Complex. Or go swimming. The Aquatic Centre has a 6 lane/ 25 metre pool, a spray pool, whirlpool, steam room, fitness studio and weight training room.

Snowshoe around Millennium Park, along the rail trails or on any of the numerous nearby hikes. And for those who are new to snowshoeing, no need to worry about lugging around those large, wooden ones our grandparents used. These days, snowshoes are light and easy to walk in. Give it a try! You can rent snowshoes at Mallard’s Source For Sports, 660 18th Street.

Evening: Besides the Woods Nightclub downtown there is also Chances Gaming Centre on the outskirts of town next door to the regional airport, or you could catch a Castlegar Rebels hockey game at the complex.

BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

Zuckerberg Island

Walk or snowshoe around this beautiful island this winter. It will take you back several thousand years to when the Lakes Salish people arrived and fished the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers. You will find a replica of a Salish pit house on the island like those used by the Salish First Nation throughout the region.

Also on the island is a Russian Orthodox style chapel house that was built by Alexander Zuckerberg over 60 years ago. There is a lovely monument to Alexander’s wife, which is a perfect place to pause and reflect. There are over five acres of open woods, a variety of paths to explore, as well as picnic tables and benches for lunch and relaxation. The park is open throughout the year although the chapel is only open during the summer months.

When the snow is on the ground, bring your skis or your snowshoes – the small island is a gentle mound that is easy enough to ski up and fun to glide down.

Kootenay Gallery of Art

The Kootenay Gallery of Art, History and Science in Castlegar is a public art gallery that serves the entire West Kootenay region. It is one of the 28 original exhibition centres built in the 1970s so that rural people could enjoy great works of art sourced regionally, nationally and internationally, as well as provide a professional venue for regional artists to show and sell their work.

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm January through November. December 1 - 24 it is open 7 days a week for its Annual Juried Christmas Exhibit & Sale. Admission to exhibitions is by donation, while members and children’s admission is free. Call 250-365-3337 or visit www.kootenaygallery.com

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The winner of the 2018 People’s Choice Award: The Keeper by Argenta artists Spring Shine, Christopher Petersen and Yvonne Boyd.

Doukhobor Discovery Centre

The largest internal migration in Canadian history, declared an Event of National Importance by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, took place from 1908 to 1912 when 5,000 Doukhobors moved from Saskatchewan to the Kootenay/Boundary area of British Columbia. The Doukohbors, a people with a unique culture and way of life, had little choice but to leave after government seized the Saskatchewan land where they had originally sought refuge from persecution in their native Russia. Their leader, Peter V. Verigin guided his people to the river valley he named Dolina Ootischenia, the Valley of Consolation, and negotiated the purchase of BC land that soon grew to 14,000 acres. On this land the Doukhobors built a successful agrarian commune based on their motto of “Toil and Peaceful Life”.

The Doukhobor Discovery Centre is closed during the winter, opening My 1st each year.

There are two other testaments to the skills, tenacity and rich spiritual life of this remarkable culture and you can visit these in the winter: Verigin’s Memorial Park located on the lower slope of Sentinel Mountain overlooking the Kootenay River; and the historic Brilliant Bridge, now a National Historic Site. To get to the Memorial Park from Hwy 3A (just north of Castlegar) turn north on Robson Access Road, then right on Terrace Road.

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Castlegar

Cuisine of India

clay oven Lunch buffet: Mon to Fri 11-2pm

Committed to the Highest Quality in Food, Drink and Service

Open Mon to Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 12- 9pm and Sun 4pm-9pm 908 Columbia Ave, Castlegar 250-365-0999 www.cuisineofindia.ca

KOOTENAY GALLERY OF ART & GIFT SHOP Fine Art, Unique Gifts Beautiful Things.

Open January - November Tues. - Sat. 10am-5pm 120 Heritage Way. Castlegar, BC December 1st - 24th 7 days/week 10am-5pm 250.365.3337 ❘ www.kootenaygallery.com

JONI ASKEW Home Selling Team For all your real estate needs.

250-365-4731

Call or text any time

Move You! We Have the Power to

Office 250-365-2170 joni@joniaskew.com

www.joniaskew.com

RMT massage hot stone massage reflexology homeopathy acupuncture waxing and threading spa facials nail treatments www.silverbirchclinic.com 621 Columbia Ave, Castlegar 250-365-6538

AFTERNOON BINGO SUNDAY CARDS GO ON SALE AT 1PM GAME STARTS AT 1:45PM

SPECIALS

Wing Wednesdays Friday Night Roast Beef Dinner Buffet

BANQUET FACILITIES

EVENING BINGO FRI & SAT CARDS GO ON SALE AT 5:30PM GAME STARTS AT 6:15 PM

Includes bonus of $10 FREE PLAY with your Encore card

Live UFC events on the Kootenays’ Biggest Screens!

100 Hall Road, Castlegar Next to the Castlegar Airport 250.304.6300 Restaurant 250.304.6311

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Castlegar

Play all day...

Sledding

There are two reasons to sled in Castlegar this winter.

Firstly, this area enjoys world-class snow and lots of it! Secondly, there’s plenty of terrain to choose from, groomed and free range. Logging roads and trails can be accessed right in town but the most popular spots are the Norns and Ladybird mountain ranges, located a 30-minute drive north of the city.

Ski Facts •

42 minutes to Red Mountain www.redresort.com

•

34 minutes to Salmo Ski Hill www.skisalmo.com

•

62 minutes to Whitewater www.skiwhitewater.com

The Bonnington Range

This is epic wilderness back country touring at its best. Go by ski or snowshoe – you will need excellent route-finding skills and solid avalanche awareness training. Many groups take several days to traverse the Bonnington Range, but there are several one or two day options that will put you on top of the world as you follow the height of land from peak to peak.

Four cabins are maintained by the Kootenay Mountaineering Club and have simple amenities, like Coleman stoves for cooking and wood stoves for heat. You can reserve your night’s stay and get all the information you need about access to trails, the different routes you can choose and their degree of difficulty through the club’s website www.kootenaymountaineeringclub.ca To stay the night at any of the cabins will cost your party only $15 per person, which has got to be the best deal on the planet, especially since you know you are supporting improvements to the cabins and the efforts of the many volunteers.

Tobogganing

Tobogganing is definitely one of the top things to do with your family in Castlegar in the winter because it’s easy, inexpensive and oh so fun! Here are three of our favourite hills.

The Woods Nightclub 292 Columbia Ave, Castlegar www.woodsnightclub.com Opens 11:30am BC Canada

The Castlegar Snowmobile Association grooms over 70 kilometres (43 miles) of trails. There are also warming huts and cabins as well. Be sure to check out www.csasled.org for detailed information and trail updates and snow conditions before you head out.

Nordic Skiing

Castlegar’s Paulson Recreation Area has over 45 km of packed and tracked ski trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels mainly for classic skiing. The rolling terrain through the mosaic forest is what makes this a cross country ski experience like nowhere else. Towering old growth lines the groomed trails and the four convenient shelters are set up at intervals along the way, just wonderful excuses to pause, to warm up and to connect with you fellow skiers. www.castlegarnordic.ca

Back Country

With so much wilderness all around, Castlegar’s ungroomed terrain beckons the more experienced telemark or back country cross country skier. The Rossland Range Recreation Site is a free public use area in the high mountains and rolling hills near Rossland. The range features a chain of unique, winter, day-use shelters. Strawberry Pass Summit – the primary parking area – is located about 19 km north of Rossland on Highway 3 and 3B. www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Cone Hill This community park features a hill that’s great for all levels of sledders, whether you’re new to the activity or a professional GTer. There is a fire pit so the whole family can stay warm during a full day of tobogganing.

Located at 3500 9th Avenue.

www.gokootenays.com

The Rebels, part of the www.KIJHL.ca, is the home team – and the source for great entertainment and pride. The Rebels and the Nelson Leafs are legendary rivals.

Fri, Dec. 14 vs Nelson Sat, Dec. 15 vs Grand Forks Sat, Jan. 5 vs Nelson Sat, Jan. 19 vs Kimberley Sat, Jan. 26 vs Creston Tue, Feb. 5 vs Spokane Tue, Feb. 12 vs Beaver Valley Fri, Feb. 15 vs Col. Valley Fri, Feb. 22 vs Beaver Valley

Games start 7pm at Castlegar Complex.

League playoffs start in March.

Castlegar Complex Mon Tues Adult Rec 55+ Hockey 9:45–11 1–2pm Sticks & 9:30 Pucks –11am 8:30– Public 9:30am Skate

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

1–2pm 9:30 –11am 8:30– 9:30am

9:30 –11am 8:30– 4– 2–4pm 2–4pm 9:30am 6:15pm

Verigin’s Tomb Memorial Park

Dove Hill

This is another great spot for beginner and intermediate sledders although those who are more advanced might find it a bit tame.

It’s located near the Memorial Site and parking and access are easy.

If you have pre-teens and teenagers who are looking for more of a thrill, try the hill located near the entrance of the Dove Hill Hike, near the Castlegar Airport.

Park before the golf course gates at the entrance to Dove.

Kick back at night!

Cartwright’s Pub 1432 Columbia Ave, Castlegar Facebook: Cartwrights-Pub Opens 10am

Rebels On Ice

Black Rooster Bar & Grill 651 18 St, Castlegar www.blackroosterbarandgrill.com Opens 11am

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The Lions Head Pub 2629 Broadwater Rd, Robson www.lionsheadpub.ca Opens 11am

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Nelson 18

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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BC Canada

Most Canadian towns are not at their best in the winter.

Grey, slushy – it gets dark too soon, people all seem to be in a rush, focussed on getting back indoors…

In Nelson there are very few days, even in the depths of winter, when you shouldn’t slow yourself down, and look up towards the snow-clad mountains or up at the trees overhanging the city streets, their bare branches stark against the sky. At night, when you come back to town after a day on the ski hill, the coloured lights gleam darkly on the wet pavement on Baker Street, Nelson’s main artery. Tuck your nose into your scarf, snuggle into your mitts, slow down, embrace winter.

A good way to appreciate Nelson’s period charm is on foot with a walking tour guide in hand. Get one at the Nelson visitor centre in the newly refurbished Canadian-Pacific Railway station. Head down Baker Street, cross through the 4-way stop and the station is straight ahead. If you have a vehicle, pick up the driving tour as well and check out some of Nelson’s steeper residential streets. You

Much To-Do About Nelson

On Kootenay Lake and amid the Selkirk Mountains, this small town has long been a destination for the funkier elements of society. If it’s powder snow on this side of the border you want, this is the place.

With a world-class collection of heli- and cat-skiing operations, Nelson is for winter’s most hardcore.…

10 Best Places (In The World!) To Spend Your Retirement Winters – Canadian Business Magazine, Sept 20, 2013

“The town of Nelson, semiVictorian, substantially bohemian, sportier and more artsy than your average hamlet of 9,700 souls, sits in the Selkirk Mountains of BC, about 30 miles north of the US border. Picture a college town that has misplaced its university”...

Nelson…with the all the ambiance of a college town, is a “magnet for artists and outdoorsy types from Calgary and Vancouver – Is there another spot where lunch means choosing between Japanese and whatever’s not cooking at the vegan raw food cafe?”

Nelson is a favourite!

Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times BC Canada

might feel like you’ve driven into a picture book. Nelson’s classic Victorian elegance can be found on nearly every street – over 350 buildings have been designated as having an important heritage value.

21st century Nelson is all about the energy of its people. The character and sense of place can be seen in the art hanging in the shops and restaurants, and in the variety of the unique businesses that thrive in this well-supported local economy. In Nelson’s downtown commercial core you can find everything from pots and pans to high-end clothing, sporting goods to spas and everything in between.

On a winter’s day when it’s bright and crisp outside and the area ski hills are humming, downtown might seem strangely quiet. Wait until dark. In the evenings, if it’s been a perfect powder day, the restaurants and night spots will be jumping!

Check out Nelson’s restaurants for ethnic, traditional, or vegetarian dining to satisfy your foodie soul. You might take in a world class performance at the Capitol Theatre, or catch a movie at the Civic. After dark, there is almost always live music happening at the surprising number of venues Nelson boasts in its downtown. Then there’s the local curling or Junior B hockey action. For the curling club schedule, visit their website at www.nelsoncurling.ca; for the schedule of the Nelson Leaf ’s hometown games, turn to page 21.

www.gokootenays.com

Air Canada Enroute Magazine

Visitors to Nelson are entranced by a modern-day hippie sanctuary: Different cultures and creeds are welcome and encouraged, travelling by foot or bicycle is best, appreciation of rolling hills and calming waterfalls is expected. Trees line the streets and musicians strum on drums in public parks.

Canada 2014: 10 Places You’ve Got To See, Macleans.ca

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Tidy brick buildings climb the side of a hill … the waterfront is lined with parks and beaches. The thriving cafe, culture and nightlife scene is a bonus.

However, what really propels Nelson is its personality: a funky mix of hippies, creative types and rugged individualists. You can find all these along Baker St, the pedestrian-friendly main drag where wafts of patchouli mingle with hints of fresh-roasted coffee.

The Lonely Planet

Beautiful Jewel of BC Stunning setting. This lovely small city has it all. Great skiing, fantastic food and restaurants with lots of local and organic choices. Great music and art scene. Lovely vibe, scenery is stunning.

Plenty of places to hike and hot springs to visit. A special place.

Trip Advisor - 10000elle

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

19

Nelson

Nelson

Nelson

NEW RE! TO WEBS ks.com eric www.g 24/7 SHOP Committed to the Highest Quality in Food, Drink and Service Open 7 days a week!

YOUR SKI GEAR

DOWNHILL

Salomon Armada Line K2 Scott Full Tilt

X-COUNTRY Fischer Salomon Madshus Rossignol Alpina

downhill • backcountry • X-country Gerick Cycle & Ski 702 Baker St, Nelson, BC 1-877-GERICK-1 | 250-354-4622 www.gericks.com | info@gericks.com

www.tandooriindiagrill.com

409 Kootenay St. Nelson 250-352-5999

Connect with Art Connect with History Connect with Culture Connect with Nelson

502 Vernon Street, Nelson, BC V1L 4E8 250-352-9813 TouchstonesNelson.ca 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, BC See our website for 250-352-9813 TouchstonesNelson.ca hours events See ourand website for hours and events

Fresh Pizza & Pasta Handmade Daily... for Lunch & Dinner Dine in, take out, sometimes delivery

Nelson’s best selection of BC craft beers

Seriously Good! itzapizza.ca 413 Hall St, Nelson, BC 250-352-3573 20

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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BC Canada

IF YOU HAVE NEVER...

#1 PARKOUR at Red Path Movement gym. Red Path is dedicated to coaching Parkour using a method that incorporates Métis medicine wheel teachings. Parkour is gymnastics-as-self-expression and it really can be practiced anywhere.

Red Path occupies a space within the Nelson Boxing & Athletics Club located at 685b Baker Street. Find the regular class schedules and special events on Facebook or at www.facebook.com/ redpathmovement

#4 FLOW JAMZ Nelson happens throughout the winter on Thursday evenings. Maybe you are an expert hooper, juggler, poi spinner, devil sticks manipulator – or maybe you just know you have it in you. Meet some flow artists who are happy to share their skills! There are many spare props for you to play with if you don’t have your own. 675 Whitmore Road on the North Shore. www. facebook.com/pg/SpiralMotionHoops/

#7 TOBOGANNING! Nip into a hardware store and buy a plastic crazy carpet or flying saucer. Although there are a lot of hills in Nelson, not all hills are great for launching your 4 year old no matter how tightly they can hang on. Actually, it’s all about landing. You don’t want to end up spinning in a roadway, smacked into a tree trunk or in the lake.

Your best bet for a good landing is the hill at Queen Elizabeth Park (Cottonwood & Fifth Street.)

#2 PAY IT FORWARD Enjoy a coffee and conversation with the locals at Wait’s News or Ward’s coffee shop, both on Baker Street – or a slice of pizza at Thor’s (corner Victoria and Kootenay St). Then pay for a coffee (or a pizza slice) for a person in need. Simple! Kind. Best thing you did all day.

#5 CRAWLING UP THE WALLS in the spectacular interior of the Cube Climbing Centre. An adult fee per day is only $12.50. 820 Tenth Street, Nelson. 250352-2808. www.cubeclimbing.com

#8 RENT A FAT TIRE BIKE at Gerick’s (Baker and Hall Streets) and ride up to the bike skills park in Art Gibbons Memorial Park on West Richards Street in Rosemont. Maybe take the bus – every Nelson City bus has space for two bikes.

#3 CRAVE COLOUR in deep winter? There is colour to revive your inner summer on many a back alley and concrete wall. In August 2018 Nelson and District Arts Council hosted a super successful Mural Festival.

Pick up the mural guide at the Visitor Centre at the bottom of Baker Street and set off on a walking tour that will inspire your socks off.

Nelson InfoCentre Photo: K Halleran

#6 TOUR A CRAFT BREWERY There are three to choose from. Starting from the top: Nelson Brewing Company (www. nelsonbrewing.com): located in Nelson’s original 100 year old brewery building, Uphill Nelson at 512 Latimer Street. Backroads Brewing Company: check ’em out right downtown at 460 Baker Street. Torchlight Brewing: a little further down the hill towards the lake at 511 Front Street.

Come with a thirst and leave with a growler!

The Cube Photo: Allan Pollin

Discover Nelson

Nelson

Some ing New to Do for You

A great place to visit!

An even better place to live.

To work. To raise a family.

To own a business!

Visitor Centre 91 Baker St, Nelson BC (The Heritage CP Railway Station at the west end of Baker Street)

Golf Granite Pointe minutes from downtow n

#9 CHEER ON THE HOME TEAM! Go to a Nelson Leafs Junior Hockey game at the Nelson & District Community Complex at 305 Hall Street. 7pm, unless specified.

Sat, Dec. 1 Sat, Dec. 8 Fri, Jan. 4 Fri, Jan. 11 Sat, Jan. 12 Sun, Jan. 27 Fri, Feb. 8 Fri, Feb. 15 Sat, Feb. 16 Sat, Feb. 23

vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs

Castlegar Col. Valley Beaver Valley Kimberley Grand Forks Golden 2pm Creston Spokane Fernie Spokane

Explore, dine and shop historic Baker Street – lf! Ph 250-352-3433 A true adventure in itse Toll Free 1-877-663-5706 Email: info@discoverNelson.com Web: www.discoverNelson.com

The Hume and Courthouse Photo: K Halleran

Lakeside Park – The ideal spot to relax

Photos: David Gluns

BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

21

Nelson

, eople Free P stocks, Birken e…

Fry

Shop Online www.shoelalanelson.com 456 Ward Street, Nelson 250.352.6754

winter Fishing at its Best!

• T-shirts • Gift Certificates • Golf Shirts • Hats

Reel Adventures Fishing Charters Nelson, BC

250-505-4963

• Heated Boats • On-board BBQ • Bathroom We sell fun!

www.r e e l a d v e n t u r e sf i sh i n g .com 22

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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BC Canada

Touchstones Nelson:

Nelson

MUSEUM OF ART AND HISTORY If you think the outside looks interesting…

Come in from the cold! Join the community and see what’s inside Touchstones Nelson. This great historic building in the heart of downtown is a gathering point for local culture. On offer is a stimulating and changeable mix of art, history and shopping – all in one location.

On the main floor two temporary exhibition spaces feature local and regional artists, as well as historical themes.

A mini-theatre offers short films on hydro power in the region and a retelling of the Sinixt creation story of the Columbia River.

Don’t miss the gift shop! You will find work by local artists, historical books and an eclectic and handpicked blend of other items for every budget.

Touchstones Nelson is located at 502 Vernon Street.

For more information check their website at www.touchstonesnelson.ca or visit their Facebook page.

Fall/winter hours are 11am to 4pm Sunday and Tuesday, 10am to 5pm Wednesday to Saturday, closed Mondays and open by donation from 5pm to 8pm every Thursday.

Touchstones Nelson. Photo: Karma Halleran

Now showing...

LOST THREAD (Gallery A) November 10, 2018 – February 24, 2019 This group exhibition brings together textile artists from across Canada who are pushing the boundaries between craft/art, and the historical/ contemporary in relevant and intriguing ways.

March 2 – May 26, 2019 The abstract, constructivist sculpture of Douglas Bentham “He is one of the country’s most prolific sculptors,” writes Fibre Artist in Residence Robin Wiltse share s a very personal journey in needle and art critic Terry Fenton, “…one hand felted wool “The Darkest Place; The Quest To Save Rowan“ will be on display until February 24. You can see more of her amazing work on her of Canada’s first sculptors in every sense.” website www. robinwiltse.com

Down in the Diefenbunker

When people think of the Cold War, at first they think of the United States and Stalinist Russia and the looming threat of nuclear war. For Canada, America’s big northern neighbour – literally stuck in the middle between these two superpowers of the post war era – there were more than a few reasons to be nervous. If there was to be fallout, it would be nuclear, and it would fall on Canada as well as intended targets.

In 1959, Canada’s Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker, very quietly initiated the BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

building of a series of nuclear fallout shelters, known by the government as Civil Defence Units, but dubbed by the public ‘Diefenbunkers.’ The biggest, naturally, was built underground a short distance from Ottawa, the nation’s capital. But Nelson got the order too, and soon the region’s go-to place for all its important people (judging by the bathroom facilities, the important people were mainly men) was a shelter built deep in the bowels of what is now Nelson’s main post office, The Gray Building on Vernon Street, just next door to Touchstones Museum.

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Since the time it was constructed, Nelson’s Diefenbunker has not been altered. It’s a time capsule of the era – the same paint on the walls, the original fixtures and furniture, the tanks that once held a three month supply of water. It’s all a bit unnerving.

In November 2018 the province alotted $60,000 in capital project funding to support the restoration of Nelson’s Civil Defence Unit.

If you want to visit the Diefenbunker, you will have to wait until the spring. Until then, stay tuned. As a radio announcer from back in the fifties would have said, “Don’t touch that dial!”

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Nelson

PROUDLY SERVING

BRINGING THE THIRD WAVE OF COFFEE TO NELSON

Fresh baking in house daily

616 Vernon St, Nelson

ı 250.352.7211

Open at 6 am weekdays ı 7 am weekends and holidays

Steakhouse and Lounge

Distinctly Metropolitan Culinary Experience Reservations Recommended

250.352.5570 • 616 VERNON ST, NELSON • FRESH FOOD • SUPERIOR COCKTAILS

The friendliest staff in town!

It’s the place to be… and be seen.

ı

250.352.2715 616 Vernon St, Nelson

All three businesses are located in the Adventure Hotel 616 Vernon Street, Nelson BC www.adventurehotel.ca 24

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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BC Canada

Swim & Sweat

Pools

M, W, F 6am–9:30pm

Gym 5:30am–9:30pm

Tu, Th

6am–9:30pm

5:30am–9:30pm

Sat

8am–8pm

8am–8pm

Sun

10am–8pm

10am–8pm

Public Skating

Also in the Community Complex you can rent a pair of skates or bring your own if you have them. Public skating starts at 8:45 each morning, Monday to Friday; on Saturdays from 3:30pm to 5:45; Sundays 3 to 4:30pm.

There are several opportunities during the week to bring your sticks and get in a game of shinny with the kids or join in a pick up hockey game with other adults. Does it go without saying that both men and women play pick-up hockey? Of course!

View schedules and events online at https:// rdck.ca and click on the Leisure Guides tab.

The Capitol Theatre

On The Road Productions

During the grand era of Hollywood glitz and glamour, a prominent Nelson contractor, Mr. A.H. Green, purchased the Central Garage on Victoria Street and had it transformed into a theatrical palace of style and refinement. Over the next few decades the gilded accoutrements gradually lost their lustre. At its lowest point, the Capitol was used as an auction hall and furniture warehouse. Following the acquisition of the building by the City of Nelson in 1983, funds were raised and the theatre – after countless hours of work – was restored to its former glorious self.

Live dramatic performances of travelling artists and companies (including the still active Rossland Light Opera Players) delight a new Capitol Theatre audience today.

In any given year, the quality of the visiting artists and artistic companies that come to grace the stage of the Capitol could hardly be surpassed in any larger centre.

Call the box office at 250-352-6363 or visit the website at www.capitoltheatre.bc.ca to book tickets and to get more info about the performers.

When nothing but live tunes are good enough, you’ll want to memorize this list of big talent visiting Nelson in the next four months.

Your host, Paul Hinrichs has developed his skills as a talent buyer not only by operating clubs in Nelson, but by serving as the Artistic Director of the Kaslo Jazz Etc Festival, as the organizer of a multistage street festival, and presenting theatre shows around the interior of the province.

Having booked and staged higher profile acts such as Ziggy Marley, STARS, Mickey Hart, Xavier Rudd, Bill Frisell, Corb Lund and many others, Paul is a driving force in the Kootenay live music scene.

Come for a show – stay for the weekend!

All the shows listed below are at the SpiritBar in the Hume Hotel, 422 Vernon Street in Nelson. Visit the hotel’s website www.humehotel.com

Wed Dec 12 Thurs Dec 13 Sat Dec 15

Sat Dec 15 BC/DC - Christmas Crank-Off Series w/ Giant Water Bug

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dweezil Zappa Choice Cuts The Backyard Booty Merry Krampus A Twisted Xmas Cabaret Fri Dec 21 O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy Sat Jan 12 Bushel & Peck Fri/Sat Jan 18 /19 DECK 2: ROOF Sun Jan 27 Alex Zerbe Tues Jan 29 Snowed in Comedy Tour Wed Jan 30 Cheng Duo Sat Feb 2 Coppelia Sun Feb 17 Little Red Riding Hood Fri Feb 22 Prisoner of Tehran Sun Feb 24 A Bird Told Me So Sun Mar 10 Peter and the Wolf Sun Mar 10 Children of God Sun Apr 7 26 Letter Dance

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fri

Fri

Dec 14 BC/DC - Christmas Crank-Off Series w/ Guests

Dec 21 Let It Stoke: Shred Kelly w/ Red Eyed Soul & Rafferty Funksmith

Sat Dec 22 Let it Stoke: Shred Kelly w/ Steve Brockley Band & Rafferty Funksmith Wed Dec 26 Boxing Day 2018 w/ Moontricks & Friends Fri

Dec 28 MeowMix 2018: Winter Edition

Fri

Feb 01 Mother Mother Dance and Cry Tour 2019

Mon Feb 11 Matthew Good w/ Guests Tue Mar 26 Donovan Woods and the Opposition w/ Guests

We’ve got your WISH LIST Covered!

Casual Elegance for Women and Men

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

Your Style Your Store BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

Women

• Sandwich • Bianca Nygård • Dex • Joseph Ribkoff • Guess & Guess Bags • Sympli • New Dex Plus • And more!

Men

• Guess • Mavi Jeans • Point Zero

498 Baker Street Nelson 250-352-2272 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK #gokootenays - share the adventure!

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

25

Nelson

At the Nelson & District Community Complex there are 3 swimming pools including a tot pool with water features, a water slide, hot tub, sauna and steam room. A full range of aqua sport classes and aqua-fit programs is offered. There’s child-minding available too, weekday mornings starting at 8am.

Feeling a bit sluggish? The Fitness Centre is fully equipped with weight equipment, cardio machines and friendly, qualified staff to assist you. Drop-in fitness classes suit all kinds of bodies and fitness aspirations. Some require registration and others are open to people just dropping in. How about 60s Dance Party?

Circuit Training? Body Sculpt? Chair Yoga?

Maybe your idea of a good time is to power through a Merciless Monday where plyometrics, body weight, HIIT, balance training, and sweat are on the agenda. Maybe not. One drop-in course is simply called Groove. Who wouldn’t want to pop in and check that one out on a Wednesday at lunchtime?

Nelson

Find your Zen Moment...

For a little peace and quiet go to the top of South Cherry Street and the end of South Sheppard Road and jump onto the Rails to Trails trail. See the Nelson City Map on page 28.

“Just the knowledge that a good book is awaiting one at the end of a long day, makes that day happier” - Kathleen Norris

Freshly prepared lunch, dinner & tapas Vegetarian & gluten-friendly choices Generous portions • Children’s menu Licensed • Outdoor patio

Otter Books

Making your bookish dreams come true 398 Baker Street, Nelson 250-352-3434 ~ otterbooksinc.ca 100% locally owned and independent bookseller

Open Mon - Sat 9:30 - 5:30, Sun 11 - 4; December Fridays till 8

Fabulous Flower Design plus so much more

Lotustraders Clothing CBD Oils & Products Premium Artisan Chocolates Jewellery Gourmet Baskets BCSpirit Soap

513 A Front Street, Nelson • 250.505.5222 • Local and International Orders • Delivery

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Historic Baker Street

Outdoor Skating

There is a rink in upper Nelson that is maintained by the Nelson Lions Club. Lions Park is located at 298 Richards Street and the ice there is perfect for kids and families.

Nelson Squash Club

Nelson has a very active Squash Club that has been in existence for 30 years. They offer men’s and ladies’ night, league play and coaching. Visit their website for details on drop-in opportunities so you can see if you like it! www.nelsonsquashclub.com

Nelson

Reserve a day and your birthday money and ‘do’ downtown Nelson. The spine of the city’s retailing and restaurant district is Baker Street, but peek up and down each side street you cross, because there are shops and eateries on the uphill side and the downhill side and even in the alleyways.

Nelson is well stocked with sporting goods stores and back country outfitters, and like almost all of Nelson’s shops and restaurants, most are independently owned. When the proprietors are Kootenay-bred, you know the gear they sell is stuff that works for the people who ride the mountain wave.

Shopping for gifts for others is a pleasure.

There are stores that sell locally produced crafts, toys from around the world, fashion lines made in gorgeous natural materials that you will not find anywhere else, and all kinds of consumables from candles to elderberry syrup. There are several second hand shops as well – one for sporting goods and several for clothing. Nelson merchants seem to have figured out that complementing each other works better than directly competing. Shoppers soon figure out that each retailer caters to a particular demographic: urban chic at one store, hi-tech outer wear at another, comfy loungewear at another.

Don’t forget to be good to yourself! Enjoy a spa treatment, delicious meal or a craft beer, and let your cares slip away. It’s your day!

Browsing Baker Street in the winter is like walking through a scene from a Charles Dickens story. Photo K Halleran

:Nelson Youth Centre

There’s a fabulous indoor skate park at the centre at 608 Lake Street. Drop in for some wintertime boarding, or join a game of pickup basketball, shoot some pool, play foosball or ping pong. There is also a well stocked art room, a music room for jamming, and a relaxing lounge where you can read or play board games. Entry fees are modest. See the schedule at www.nelson.ca/150/Youth-Centre

Curling

With its mix of good competition and easy camaraderie, curling has evolved to become one of the most affordable sports for athletes of all ages, skill levels and physical abilities.

The club is very welcoming and members invite you to come see how much fun it can be. Drop-in curling begins at 5:30pm on Mondays. Your first visit is free, so you can’t lose! Call 250-352-7628. Get more info from their website: nelsoncurling.ca

Cakes, wedding cakes, birthday cakes, just a slice of cake, cupcakes, fresh-baked croissants, homemade bagels, cinnamon buns, breakfast muffins…

Daily soups, salads, wraps and sandwiches, delicious coffee from Kaslo’s Bean Roasting LICENSED - BC wines & local craft beers

709 C VERNON STREET 250-352-0884 cakebetty.ca BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

27

Kootenay Lake Fishing

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250-352-0147 www.bbcanada.com/2867.html 28

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

Store St

Completely private cottage on acreage close to Whitewater ski area. A little piece of heaven for outdoor lovers and a perfect honeymoon getaway.

Sorry, no credit cards. Low season rates.

Kane St

Cedarwood Cottage

Johnson St

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Tower Rd.

Hall Mines Road

Some people claim that wintertime fishing on Kootenay Lake is the best. If you don’t have the equipment or knowledge for winter fishing, there are a few guides/outfitters who can take you out.

What do you need for winter fishing? First off, you need a heated boat. You have to be comfortable or you’re not going to enjoy yourself. Next, you need an assortment of lures: Bucktails, plugs, apexes, Bill Normans, and flasher/hoochies. That should about do it.

Get out and enjoy our beautiful lake. It’s a different world out there!

Kerry Reed balfourcanada.ca

▼

Nelson

your lure right on the surface and having a giant Gerrard rainbow take the lure and start As the water cools down in the fall, the running away with it. The fish begin to feed heavily. This is the acrobatic maneuvers of these time of year when you can catch some great fish, as they jump out of of the biggest fish in the lake on the the water over and over, will surface. Imagine trolling give you a feeling that can’t be described until it happens to you.

Granite The winter season is Pointe Golf prime fishing time, so Course don’t let cold winter temperatures keep you indoors.

Choquette Ave Because of the Crease Ave depth of Kootenay Lake and Kary Cres Jeffs Ave the currents throughout the lake, it never freezes.

Dr ld na Mcquarrie Ave cdo You can get out on your t M S Beasley Cres Fall Robertson Ave boat at any time Silver King Rd t S ay Vancouver St ten of year.

Fro Koo n

Victoria Falls Guest House A charming guesthouse with 5 individual kitchenette suites hosting 2-5 people in each. Wifi/TV/BBQ/ off street parking/ A/C in each suite.

Non smoking, pets welcome! Located in the heart of historic downtown Nelson so you can park your car and walk to all of our famous restaurants, cafes, and shops!

203 Victoria Street Nelson, 250-551-3663 info@victoriafallsguesthouse.com

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

-

Whitewater Ski Resort

WH20 Mountain Facts

This mountain has it all: groomed runs, open bowls, glades, chutes, and tree skiing. Powder Magazine calls Whitewater “One of the best powder mountains on the continent” and adds “Whitewater is the capital of the Powder Highway of BC.” • Average snowfall: 1,200 cm/40 feet!

• Lodge base elevation: 1,646 metres/5,400 feet • Summit elevation: 2,042 metres/6,700 feet • Glory Ridge lift base: 1,422 metres/4,666 feet • Glory Ridge lift top: 2,045 metres/6,710 feet • Ymir peak: 2,398 metres/ 7,867 feet • Vertical drop: 623 metres/2,044 feet • Alpine skiable terrain: 479ha/1,184 acres • 20% Beginner • 40% Intermediate • 40% Advanced

BC Canada

Entering Coldsmoke

The festival gets its name from the world-renowned snow of the region, which is so light and dry it’s like cold smoke. Jump in for the first time or for the dozenth time or some number in between...

Presenting the 13th annual Kootenay Coldsmoke Powder Festival, February 22-24 at Whitewater Ski Resort.

The festival was originally created to celebrate our unique Kootenay mountain culture and passion for all forms of powder play.

In addition to seasoned mountain veterans, Coldsmoke will please snow enthusiasts of all disciplines and ability levels. One of the most fun events at the Festival is the Sunday Poker Run, which sees pairs of competitors skin up to various checkpoints and then ski down to collect playing cards. The best hand wins but so do the best costumes and people have really upped their game in the past few years.

Register online, by phone or in the Whitewater office at 602 Lake Street in Nelson.

Way toooo much fun! www.coldsmokepowderfest.com

www.gokootenays.com

Nelson

In the past couple of years, Whitewater has been garnering a lot of press and awards. It seems that once you’ve spent a day here, keeping this cat in the bag is hard to do, and that’s got some of the regulars a little worried. Whitewater still has that out-of-the-way vibe of a community ski hill far from the madding crowds.

Cradled in British Columbia’s legendary Selkirk Mountains, at the day lodge beneath Ymir Mountain the elevation is 5,400ft/1,640m, Whitewater’s dependably dry snowfall totals over 10 metres a season. That is more than 40 feet. There just aren’t many resorts that see snowfalls as big, as often.

With no hotels or residences clustered around the day lodge, once you are ready to be taken up the Glory Ridge triple chair lift, you won’t be angling for a view of where you’re headed or stamping your feet to stay warm in long lineups.

(Even if you are waiting in a lift lineup, the people-watching is too good to ignore. There is every kind of budget goin’ on here.

The hill has plenty of amenities besides the snow: the day lodge, Adventure Centre, Whitewater Store, Rentals & Repairs, Coal Oil Johnny’s Pub, Fresh Tracks Café, and Fresh Tracks Café Express. Free 1.5 to 2 hour mountain tours are offered daily at 10am. Just meet up beside the rental shop steps at the northwest corner of the lodge by the Silver King Chair. You will see the Mountain Tour sign and the hosts in their bright orange jackets.

To make the most of your experience, take a course at the Adventure Centre. These courses get skiers and snowboarders alike past the falling or falling in love stage, and will turn you into a Whitewater lifer. From basic learn-to-ski to advanced clinics and two levels of avalanche awareness, the centre is a one-stop shop. The committed, professionally trained snow school and snow safety instructors are passionate about ensuring you have the tools and information you need, and will likely use on the groomed ski hill proper and into the back country beyond. Check out their website at www.skiwhitewater.com or call 1-800-666-9420.

X-Country All the Way

Maybe you’re a rank beginner, or you are someone who has been addicted to the rhythm of x-country skiing for decades. Either way, head to Apex and Busk. The Nelson Nordic Ski Area has over 28 km of groomed trails.

There is beauty in the woods and under the stars. A 1.5 kilometre loop is lit at night until 10pm, seven days a week and until midnight on New Year’s Eve. Daily or nightly fees are payable at the trailheads or season passes may be purchased from the club. If you have membership with Blackjack or Castlegar Nordic Ski, you only pay half price day use fees on the club’s trails. Call the Snow Phone 250-3544292 for the latest in snow conditions and visit www. nelsonnordicski.ca and their Facebook page for updates on trail conditions and club events.

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

MAIN STREET DINER • Espresso • Cappuccino • Gourmet Burgers • English Style Fish and Chips • Greek Specialties

Ta k e O u t • Fu l l y L i c e n s e d Open 11 am

616 Baker St. Nelson 250-354-4848

Great Food ~ Best Outdoor Patio 2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

29

Stay active & healthy at your

Nelson

Recreation Facilities Regional District Central Kootenay

Aquatic Centres Lap lanes Sauna/Hot tub Steamroom Leisure pool

Fitness Centres

Group Fitness Studio Cardio Area Weight room Indoor Track

AreNa

Public Skating Rec HOckey Skate Rentals Indoor walking

Skateboard Park Senior Centre Banquet Facilities Curling Facility Call for schedules and specific facility features.

Castlegar & District Recreation Department � � �  ­�

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30

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

Creston & District Community Complex

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#gokootenays - share the adventure!

Nelson & District Community Complex €�  ‚  ƒ „ …† ��� �

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Whitewater Shuttle

7:57 & 8:22am 8 & 8:25am 8:05 & 8:30am 8:10 & 8:32am 8:15 & 8:35am

Safeway The Prestige Inn Prestige Lakeside Resort Whitewater Ski Resort Office Rivers, Oceans and Mountains (ROAM Shop) 8:20 & 8:38am The Adventure Hotel 8:25 & 8:41am The Best Western Plus Baker Street Inn 8:30 & 8:45am The Hume Hotel 8:35 & 8:50am Alpine Inn & Suites Shuttle leaves the ski hill at 4pm.

Sledding

A snowmobile that’s just right for you – quick, responsive and just the weight you can handle – is a beautiful thing. Freeriding in the alpine, winding through tight trees, popping out into a mountain meadow, into the sunshine and above the layer of clouds shrouding the valleys… your heart is pounding and there is a big smile stuck on your face. Motocross with skis. The track behind you is the track you made, and nobody else.

But… getting to those high elevation forests and powder bowls can be jarring on the kidneys! A groomed trail to the alpine is your friend, and you can ride groomed trails with company, kids and novices too.

Two area clubs worth getting to know are the Castlegar Snowmobiling Association (find them on Facebook) and the Nelson Sno-goers. Check out their website: www.nelsonsno-goers.webs.com

Kokanee Creek Park

On the West Arm of Kootenay Lake just 20 km east of Nelson, Kokanee Creek Provincial Park is a wonderful natural place.

Encompassing 257 hectares, the park has over a kilometre of sandy beaches and a large delta area. In the winter, the interpretive centre and the campgrounds are closed, but the day-use and overflow areas remain open. The park has 9.5 km of easy snowshoeing trails and one of the trails leads to a viewing platform overlooking the Kokanee Creek canyon. Bring your binoculars; there is a large population of birds over-wintering in the Kokanee Creek delta.

If you have the right 4WD vehicle and some back country savvy, a drive up towards Gibson’s Lake rewards you with glinting sunshine, snow and spectacular hoar frost artistry.

Let someone know you’re heading up that way, before you leave!

BE COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN CLOTH

isisexotica

Clothing to fit your lifestyle

250-354-4002 488 Baker St, Nelson

A NEW HOME FOR

Nelson

Scuttle on the shuttle! Hands-free door-todoor transportation so you can suck back your green energy smoothie while you watch the passing scenery without a care in the world. Buy your tickets in advance at the Whitewater downtown Nelson office on Lake Street, or at ROAM on Baker Street. There are two runs each morning and the cost is more than fair: one way, $7.50; there and back, $11.00.

Aromatic Apothecary Botanical Perfume Adult Essentials

We’ve moved across the street

582 Ward Street Downtown Nelson

250-352-0666 www.isis.ca

NELSON’S

ECO STORE

SINCE 1991 Eco Products body | kitchen | home

• ORGANIC • FAIR TRADE • NATURAL • ECO BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

Sustainable Fashion for women, men and children

421 BAKER ST, NELSON #gokootenays - share the adventure!

GIFT CERTIFICATES 2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

31

Kꝏtenay Lake

Your one stop for...

Salmo

• F’real Milkshakes • lotto • ATM • groceries • gas • diesel • propane • sani dump We have a great tourist information section that includes information on“To Dos” throughout the Kootenays.

SKYWAY HARDWARE 250-357-9911

TOUCH SCREEN ESPRESSO MAKER

Grab a bite to eat

Billy’s Auto Service Ltd.

and sit inside our one of a kind store or sit outside under cover and enjoy the view.

Automotive repair Air conditioning Wheel alignment Tires & lubricants

winter HOUrS:

Mon – Sat 6:00 am - 9:00 pm Sunday 6:30 am - 9:00 pm

The

Weekly Don’t miss stopping at Instore the Salmo Pump for Specials fast friendly, efficient service

Salmo PumP

250-357-2227

Bill Baird, Owner 90 7th Street, Salmo, BC

250-357-0005

Welcome to SALMO We know how to Winter!

There’s great, affordable skiing or snowboarding week nights and weekends.

Not into skiing? Come and enjoy our outdoor skating rink, become a new member at the Salmo Curling Centre, or snowmobile, cross-country ski or snowshoe on the Rails For Trails and other local trails. Tired after all your activities?

Enjoy hot refreshments at the hill or enjoy a meal at one of our excellent in-town restaurants, or shop for winter wear and sporting equipment.

discoversalmo.ca | 250-357-2596

32

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

salmo.ca | 250-357-9433

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kꝏtenay Lake

Salmo

Winter in the Kootenays is a magical time and the Salmo/ Ymir area offers winter sports enthusiasts an exceptional variety of recreational opportunities.

Salmo, Erie and Ymir were small mining towns that grew up along the right-of-way of the historic Nelson/Fort Sheppard Railway during the gold rush years of 1896 and 1897. Gold, silver, lead, zinc and tungsten were mined in the surrounding mountains and Salmo grew as a centre for supplies and entertainment.

Today the logging roads that were carved into the mountains provide access into beautiful back country, a paradise for snowmobiling, x-country skiing and snowshoeing. The local ski hill has great downhill skiing, snowboarding and refreshment facilities. Other activities to pursue in Salmo during the winter include the outdoor ice rink, dog sledding and winter

The present Salmo Hotel was originally built in 1912, and there has been a hotel at this location continuously since 1860.

All four previous hotels on the site Salmo Hotel Photo: K Halleran succumbed to fishing. The local curling club is one of the heating happy to welcome new members systems of the time, in other and local dining is an enjoyable words, fire! Be sure to check après-sport activity. out the old photographs in the pub while you enjoy the refreshments.

Cakewalks & Community

One of the best things about Salmo is the Salmo Valley Youth and Community Centre. The centre is housed in a high school that was slated for demolition.

That never happened. A society formed and bought the building for $1.

Every day there is something going on, from Mother Goose children’s groups to step aerobics, circuit training and youth writing groups. Public meetings happen there, too.

Visit their website, www.svycc. ca or check their facebook page @Salmo Valley Youth & Community Centre to see what’s happening this week!

Who Let the Dogs Out Have you ever wanted

to fly through the snow on the lightest of sleds, a skein of dogs ahead of you running with purpose and amazing teamwork

and shout out Mush!?

The Spirit of the North Kennels offers you just that chance.

An exhilarating ride behind a team of enthusiastic Alaskan huskies will take you along some of the most beautiful trails in the West Kootenay. The tour travels 7 km on a groomed trail that winds through dense forest, open fields and along the clear-running Salmo River.

In Salmo you can pursue your dream of participating in the 1000 mile race, Yukon Quest.

You can learn to drive a team of Alaskan huskies. Spirit of the North Kennels offers to teach you how to do it!

For more information on a truly Canadian adventure, go to www. spiritofthenorthkennels.weebly. com/

Salmo

A Salmo Landmark

• Open 7 days a week • Wireless internet

Kicking Horse Coffee Homemade Baked Goods Hearty Breakfasts Artisan Ice Cream, Fruit Smoothies, Milkshakes Panini Sandwiches and more 413 Railway Ave, Salmo 250- 357-2867

Ski Salmo!

• 6 runs • Night

BEST NIGHT SKIING IN THE KOOTENAYS!

Skiing

Adult Student Child Senior 60 Senior 70

Day

$28.50 $21.00 $18.00 $21.00 Free

Half Day/Night

$21.00 $17.00 $14.50 $17.00 Free

Reserve the whole hill for your group!

Private Group Rental $165/hr

(minimum 4 hr)

Reservations, Information, Rentals www.skisalmo.com

BC Canada

Check us out on Facebook

www.gokootenays.com

250-357-2323

info@skisalmo.com

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

33

How far to Salmo?

Salmo

Ripple Creek

• 30 min to Whitewater Ski • 49 min to Red Mountain Ski • 2 min to Salmo Ski

reach Ripple Ridge Cabin from the Stagleap parking area. You can actually stay at this cabin overnight. Go to www.rippleridge.ca to reserve it. If you are an experi-

SALMO VALLEY PHARMACY FULL SERVICE PHARMACY Including: Gifts and Souvenirs Professional Medication Reviews Compliance Packaging Travel Vaccinations • Flu Shots

Mon-Sat 9:30-5:30

107-4th Street • 250-357-9444

Ymir Back Country Ldge www.backcountryskilodge.ca

enced back country skier, head out to where the real rewards are, further out to Baldy Rocks, The Muffin or Cornice Ridge. You are in for a ski day you will remember for the rest of your life.

Ymir

The Village of Ymir lies in the mountains between Salmo and Nelson. It is situated alongside the Salmo River, and is only a short 30 second jaunt off Hwy 6.

Ymir was a bustling mining town, and you can still see some of the old mine workings on the hillsides. The village and surrounding rural area is now home to approximately 350 people. Although a fire swept through the village during the mining times, two of the original

Kꝏtenays

12.5km .........Ymir 42km ............Trail 41km ............Nelson 133km ..........Grand Forks 189km ..........Cranbrook 231km ..........Spokane 380km ..........Kelowna 581km ..........Calgary 655km ..........Vancouver It takes about an hour on skins to

hotels as well as a church survived and are still standing.

Today, Ymir is a laid back town that is extremely family and dog friendly. Famous for their Tiny Lights Music Festival in summer (June 7-9 are the dates for 2019) they also put on a helluva party in February. Ymir SnowFest on February 9 will be, like last year, a musical celebration of winter!

You can get more information on Facebook @ Ymir Snowfest.

The area contains numerous world class opportunities for outdoor activities and is well known for their snow. The Ymir Back Country Ski Lodge boasts of world class powder, little wind, and over 500 inches of snow a year. You can reach them through their website www.backcountryskilodge.ca

Dog Sled Rides LEARN TO DRIVE A TEAM OF ALASKAN HUSKIES

by yourself!

The tour travels on a beautifully groomed 7 km trail, through dense forests, open fields, and beside the crystal clear Salmo River

Rates: Adults $99 • Children 7 - 12 accompanied by an adult $75 • Children 6 and under accompanied by an adult $50

250-357-9390 ~ almagaw@telus.net Al Magaw has almost 4 decades of experience www.spiritofthenorthkennels.weebly.com caring for, raising, and racing sled dogs 34

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

We also offer therapy training for dogs with behaviour problems.

DOGS BOARDED

Dog S

Dog Sledding School:

Brought to you by Spirit of the North Kennels Salmo, BC

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l

ing d d e

THE TRUE CANADIAN ADVENTURE

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BC Canada

The Heart of Beaver Valley

Fruitvale, originally named Beaver Siding, began as a stop on the Great Northern Railroad. For over a hundred years, this small town on Beaver Creek has been important as a provisioning and social centre to miners, loggers and sawmill workers, and the workers at the smelting plant in Trail. It is now home to about 2,000 people.

Recreation is important in the Beaver Valley area. For a rural community, even in the wintertime, there is a surprising variety of sports or activities to choose from. Almost all are organized, developed and enjoyed by volunteer clubs (but newcomers and visitors are usually welcome to join in.) The bowling club keeps its five lanes humming all year, and during the winter a x-country skiing club and a snowmobiling club maintain trails throughout the area. Beaver Valley has two community halls (one in Fruitvale and one in Montrose), an arena for skating and ice hockey, a public library and the Park Siding Historical Log School site. Fruitvale also has some great little stores and places to get a bite.

X-Country Ski

Go Nitehawks

Fans say the best hockey in the Kootenays takes place at the Beaver Valley Arena. The Beaver Valley Nitehawks offer experienced hockey, and the prospect of watching them hoist another trophy at the end of the season keeps their loyal fans in the stands year after year. Catch the excitement at one of their home games. The puck drops at 7pm.

Grab your skis, your kids and your friends and head out for a bracing day of x-country skiing in the Beaver Valley. A lovely spot to ski is where a lot of local people take their dogs for a good run – the trails in Beaver Valley Family Park. If you prefer groomed trails, glide through the forest and wind around the lakes on the 13 km of trails in Champion Lakes Park.

You can find a map of all the Champion Lakes trails at the trailhead by the parking lot of Champion Lakes Park. To get there take the Champion Lakes Road, just 10 km east of Fruitvale on Hwy 3B – watch for the blue sign.

Fruitvale

Fruitvale,

Playoffs start in March.

Sat, Dec. 8 Sat, Dec. 15 Wed, Jan. 2 Sat, Jan. 5 Fri, Jan. 18 Sat, Jan. 26 Sat, Feb. 2 Fri, Feb. 8 Sat, Feb. 9 Sat, Feb. 16

Wilderness Outings

vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs vs

Creston Spokane Castlegar Grand Forks Creston Golden Spokane Castlegar Nelson Columbia Valley

While many folks hit the mountain slopes to ski come winter, others prefer a thrilling ride on a snowmobile destined for trails, logging roads and higher climbs. The Beaver Mountain Snowmobile Association was created for just such winter adventurers. The Fruitvale membership is an active group who have taken on the challenge of finding the best places to ride in the area. The club works in cooperation with several land stewardship For all your off-road backcountry needs, organizations, including see us today! the Nature Conservancy of Canada. Only club members are allowed to operate their sleds Service & Sales in the 136,000-acre (55,000-hectare) privately owned property bordering the west shore of Kootenay Lake 1470 Hwy 3B, Fruitvale known as Darkwoods.

TF: 1-888-989-1615 Contacted dealer www.bvrmntn.webs.com www.barretthondayamaha.com • 250-367-6216 #5996

Planning a Special Event?

We have the place for you!

Welcome to Creekside RV Park

1970 Main Street 5 RV SITES • Full hook-ups (water, sewer, 30 amp electricity) • On-site sani dump • NO TENTS • Seating for 300 with bar, sound system, stage, and projector with big screen • Modern commercial kitchen • Round and rectangular tables • Competitive rates • Great for weddings and special events

FRUITVALE MEMORIAL CENTRE For Bookings 250-367-7551 BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

Located behind the Fruitvale Memorial Centre is the newly constructed Creekside RV Park with 5 full service RV spaces.

Each graveled space has its own 30 amp service, water and sewer connections, picnic table and fire pit.

No reservations – first come first served

www.village.fruitvale.bc.ca

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

35

dominates the western view.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy a bracing winter’s day in and near Balfour, but the best part of your day might be the warm-up, after it gets dark outside and you are indoors, telling stories by the fireside at the pub.

Balfour

New Year’s Derby

Balfour nests on the western shore of Kootenay Lake, just as the lake’s west arm splits off from the main body of water to flow through the narrows. Stroll down to the sandy beach by the ferry landing for wonderful views of the Purcell Mountains. The hemlock/fir/cedar forests on the lower slopes reflect greenly in the water, even in the winter, since the swiftly flowing channel never freezes. If you’re coming to Balfour via the longest free ferry ride in the world, the Selkirks are the mountain range that

How do you celebrate the dawn of a new year? Enjoying the company of family, friends and your neighbours, maybe musing about the future and the past as you cast your line. This little derby has all the anticipation and nostalgia that seems to suit this holiday. Register at Gill and Gift (right at the ferry landing) and throw $20 in the hat.

The pot is split between the longest Dolly and the longest rainbow. Everybody is welcome to be a part of this local tradition!

“Best Day Ever!”

Go fishing on the lake in February. Surprisingly, as the water chills, fishing for rainbows or bull trout actually gets better. Get all the info and gear you need, plus your fishing licence at Gill and Gift at the Balfour Ferry landing. Best bet? Reel Adventures Fishing – go fishing with a guide on a heated boat.

Spend a leisurely morning, feed the ducks, find something delectable for breakfast at the bakery, or catch the MV Osprey Ferry and eat at their lunch counter as you cruise across the lake and back. Then go for a swift x-country ski or snowshoe on the Balfour Golf Course until your cheeks are red and your hair is a tangled mess. Afterwards, treat your face and body to a pampering at the spa at Kootenay Lakeview Spa Resort & Event Centre. A Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage sounds like the perfect finish to a cold winter’s day.

(above) Waiting to board the Osprey Ferry (below)... Photos: Gary Schneider

Nestled along the shores of Kootenay Lake, Balfour is a small but vibrant community, offering multitudes of opportunity for the avid hiker, biker, golfer, boater and fisherman.

Please contact us for more information: Balfour & District Business & Historic Association contact.balfourcanada@gmail.com www.balfourcanada.ca

Welcome Visitors to the Balfour Superette

ONE STOP SHOPPING! 7824 Hwy 3A,

Balfour Ferry Landing • Groceries • Liquor Agency • Lotto Centre • Interac • ATM

Open 7 days a week 8am-8pm 36

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

• Phone Cards • Fresh Buns & Bread Daily • Produce • Meats

250-229-4612

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BC Canada

Ainsworth Hot Springs

When winter starts to bite, you will want to come here.

Check in at the comfortable Ainsworth Motel or at the resort. Come to immerse yourself in the naturally warm, healing waters and to allow the power of nature to soothe your body and soul. Since time immemorial, the Ktunaxa people (pronounced K-too-nah-ha) have valued the springs as a place for healing. After battle, warriors would come to soak in the spirit waters (nupika wu’u), easing their hearts and limbs back from injury and strain through to strength once again.

The source of the springs lies above, in the Cody Caves area. The water works its way down through porous calcareous rock to flow through to the pools below, renewing the water naturally approximately six times a day.

Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort on Kootenay Lake Photos: Gary Schneider

AINSWORTH MOTEL …on Kootenay Lake

Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort

Today, the site of the ancient hot springs is home to the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort. In a pleasing circularity, the resort is now owned and operated by the Lower Kootenay Band. They are proud to bring a unique First Nations warmth to the hospitality you will experience when you stay at the resort.

Staying at the hotel means you have exclusive use of the healing waters in the mornings before 10am. Float in the steaming open-air pool, then wade into the horseshoe-shaped cave, where the darkness, the mineral deposits and the humidity all combine to offer an exhilarating experience.

The Hot Springs restaurant, the Ktunaxa Grill, serves creative and healthy Indigenous inspired food in a very comfortable atmosphere. The service is friendly and warm and the view through the wall of windows overlooking Kootenay Lake feeds the soul just as much as the beautifully presented food on your plate feeds your body. Indulge yourself!

PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION AT AFFORDABLE RATES Kitchenettes • Satellite TV • WiFi

Tripadvisor 3595 Hwy 31, Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC Travelers’ 250-229-4711 • 888-848-4463 Choice info@ainsworthmotel.com • www.ainsworthmotel.com Winner

“Nupika Wu’u” Spirit Water • • • • • •

Hot Springs Pool & Cave Spirit Water Spa Swimwear & Gift Boutique Contemporary Rooms & Suites Banquet & Meeting Room Open all year

Fresh, local indigenous inspired

1-800-668-1171

www.ainsworthhotsprings.com BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Hiking/ Snowmobile Trails

Kooten

KOOTENAY RV PARK (WOODBURY RESORT & MARINA)

Fish for Rainbows from your front door!

• All motel suites and chalets have full kitchens and satellite TV

• JB’s Restaurant & Pub

• Marina – Boat Rentals – Tackle

• Laundromat

• RV Park open all winter ask about our specials • Registration at store

Photo: Greg Stuart

FREE WiFi! r Sled from You! Room or RV

Trail information with easy access to local trails. Ample parking for your snowmobile trailer.

Resort Office & Store Open 9am – 4 pm

JB’s Restaurant & Pub Open Thurs - Sun 3-9 pm

OVERALL FAVOURITE RESTAURANT Ainsworth/Kaslo Area

Beer & Wine Store

Woodbury Resort & Marina, 38

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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4 kms north of Ainsworth Hot Springs PO Box 1262, Ainsworth, BC V0G 1A0 250-353-7717 Fax 250-353-2004 Toll Free 1-877-353-7717 Email: woodburyresort@netidea.com www.woodburyresort.com www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kꝏtenay Lake

Wꝏdbury

t r o s e R y r u b d Woo & M aesrtiinnatioan ,Resort ay Lake’s D

Explore the beautiful Selkirk Mountains at your back door.

Wildlife Encounters

Kꝏtenay Lake

Sledding Nirvana

Are you a snowmobiler who loves the open back country? Make Woodbury Resort your base camp. The snow-covered access road to Kokanee Glacier Park and the Silver Spray Cabin joins the highway right at Woodbury.

Also, there is endless room for even the biggest of rigs to park and turn around with ease, right near your chalet.

After a day’s riding or skiing, head to JB’s Pub & Restaurant for great fish and chips and a beverage to warm up.

One of the great pleasures of touring the Kootenays is finding yourself in a place where wilderness dominates the landscape. Catching sight of wildlife as you drive along the windy roads can be memorable – but there are some things you can do to ensure that the deer, elk, bears or smaller animals continue to move through their habitat peacefully.

Always reduce your speed in areas where the wildlife caution signs are posted. These signs are placed in areas where there has been a high incidence of sightings and, unfortunately, collisions.

Slowing down is especially important at dawn and dusk or during the night (make sure that your headlights are clean and aligned), or while travelling on a road that follows a water source.

Just reducing your speed by 20 km will give you an extra 30 metres for braking. Slowing down and braking is almost always a safer approach than swerving.

Enlist the help of a passenger to scan the sides of the road ahead of you for any signs of wildlife. If you see wildlife, be prepared to stop. All animals are unpredictable. Even if you’re sure they know you’re coming, a deer or a bear may suddenly decide that now is the time to make a break and cross the road. If you see one animal, chances are there is another on the tree line, and they’re travelling together.

Resist the temptation to speed up on long straight stretches – a surprising number of animals are killed on these few sections of road.

If the worst happens, please report any dead or injured animals to the Conservation Officer Service of BC at 1-877-952-7277.

Woodbury Resort & Marina

Woodbury’s fortune lies with its breathtaking location on Kootenay Lake and the great outdoors. This four-season resort has everything: chalets, RV camping, convenience store, liquor agency, boat rentals and a pub and restaurant.

Experience lake fishing in winter! Plan your arrival to Woodbury so you can get your gear and boat rentals all figured out for the next day. Meet the locals in the

Wꝏdbury

Get Outdoors at Woodbury

pub in the evening, and soak up a few fish tales along with your bevvies.

Fishing is at its best on Kootenay Lake in fall and winter. What’s the catch?

Some of the biggest rainbow trout, Gerrard rainbows which reach phenomenal sizes of over twenty pounds, as well as Dolly Varden (bull trout) and kokanee, a land-locked salmon.

Woodbury is all about outdoor recreation, all year long. It is home to Woodbury Resort & Marina, JB’s Pub and Restaurant and Jones Boys Boats, who can put you in a lake-worthy boat.

Fish Lak e near R

etallack

. Photo : Ernst G arthe, K aslo Mo nor Lod ge

Photos: Top and bottom Courtesy Jones Boys Boats BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

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Your backstage ticket to authentic West Kootenay culture and nature betweenlakeandhighplace.ca Kaslo BC 250-353-2448

Treehouse Restaurant e

XC Mountain Bike and Trail Running Races

The

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Saturday, August 10 ~ Kaslo BC

m Co Yum!

y for

Famous Eggs Benn Breakfast

Kaslo on beautiful Kootenay Lake. Photo: Ken Hewat Langham in fall. Photo: K Halleran

• Homemade Beef, Chicken and Veggie Burgers • Pita Melts • Marvelous Mexican • Breakfast and Lunch Bowls • Stir Fries and more • Sinful Desserts

Making the Hungry Happy for over 30 years At the ❤ of Front St, Kaslo

250-353-2955 See full menu at kaslotreehouse.com Open Daily 6:30 am to 3pm, Friday till 7pm

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250-353-2566 408 Front Street, Kaslo www.figmentscanada.com 40

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kꝏtenay Lake

Kaslo

Kꝏtenays

EXPERIENTIAL TOURISM COMPANY

We craft day-based, immersive experiences where you share a moment in the remarkable lives of local artists, musicians, historians, chefs, farmers and ecologists, in intimate and unique settings…

Between A Lake And A High Place.

Kꝏtenay Lake

Kaslo

tising artists, a common Live Music area for workshops and In addition to the a small theatre that can offerings at the accommodate 80 people.

Langham TheUpcoming live musicatre, check what’s al performances in the happening at the Langham Guest Artist Bluebelle Bistro, a Series: December 22, The venue that reguEisenhauers; January 18, larly brings in live Dominique Fraissard; Febshows. Buddy’s ruary 15, Richard Wood/ Front Street Gordon Belsher; March Pizzeria has been 8, Elizabeth Shepherd/ known to break Michael Occhipinti. FLIKS out in song... and Movie Series: January 11, The Kaslo Hotel February 22 and March 15. The Langham is a highly valued cultural and the Angry Plus more! Find details on- treasure. Photo: K Halleran Hen occasionally line. www.thelangham.ca host bands or The Japanese Canadian evenings featurMuseum experience begins ing DJs or Open with a series of photographs and writings Mic nights. Trivia Night at the Kaslo Hotel on hung on the walls of the stairwell and second Tuesdays is lots of fun, too. The Kaslo Concert floor hall. Climb to the third floor and view a Society presents classical music at the United re-creation of the quarters of a family of Nisei Church Hall. February 6: Mark Fewer, violin (Canadian citizens of Japanese descent) and and Hank Knoz, harpsichord; March 1, cellist The Langham imagine what it must have been like to live in Josephine van Lier; April 6: The Bergmann internal exile in one’s own country.

Duo, piano four hands.

This historic building was once a hotel, a bank, a bottling company, and, during World War II, Langham Gallery hours are Thursday through it was an internment centre for Japanese-CanSunday, 1 to 4pm. The Japanese Canadian adians. Today, the Langham Cultural Centre museum is open daily from 10am to 4pm. For Winter Solstice houses a Japanese Canadian museum, two more information call 250-353-2661, or go to galleries, affordable studio space for practheir website www.thelangham.ca Come celebrate the beginning of longer days and shorter nights with a solstice celebration and social, at the covered pedestrian Unity Bridge spanning the Kaslo River at the south SS Moyie end of 5th Street. Kaslo Trailblazers Society For nearly 60 years, sternwheelers provided a transportation lifeline to the many isolated comhosts this annual event on Friday, December munities on Kootenay Lake. The SS Moyie (the world’s oldest intact passenger sternwheeler) 21. The bridge will sparkle with colourful and her sister ships literally opened the Kootenay region to miners, businesses, farmers and lights. There will be singalongs and hot pioneer families. When she was launched on October 22, 1898, there were no roads, no trains, chocolate to keep you warm. Grab the family and of course no air travel into these hidden mountain valleys. The ships were the only means and enjoy a winter evening with friends and of mass transportation, freight and mail service. Now dry-docked at the lower end of Front neighbours. Check posters for starting time Street, the SS Moyie is both Kaslo’s Visitor Centre and a captivating museum that will appeal and details. to every member of the family. One of two National Historic sites in Kaslo. Open May to Oct. Kaslo is a picturesque little village that has been called “a vintage silver dollar in the West Kootenay’s pocket” by Beautiful British Columbia magazine. Tucked away as it is within the surrounding mountains, and skirted by a rushing river and spectacular lake, the image seems truly apt. In winter, Kaslo is your gateway to heli-skiing, cat-skiing, back country touring, x-country skiing, skating, snowmobiling and fishing.

Kaslo, originally called Kane’s Landing, was founded in 1893 and was the region’s first incorporated city. It was known as the commercial centre of the gold, silver and lead mining industries during the boom of the 1890s. The Village of Kaslo has undergone dramatic changes since the boom days of the 1890s. Where there were once 27 saloons full of boisterous prospectors, there is now a myriad of activities for everybody to enjoy. Rich in history, strong in community spirit, spectacular in location, Kaslo offers those who live there a quality of life others can only envy.

BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

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Kaslo

Kaslo Husky Downtown Kaslo

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP! including

Chez Serge Take Out Eats!

Bottle Depot

• Full Service Fuels • Propane • Convenience Store • Coffee Bar including Cappuccinos

Open: Mon - Fri 5am to 9pm • Sat - Sun 6am to 8pm Kaslo 250-353-2205

HONEY CANDLES

®

100% pure beeswax

“One of the best buildings in BC” Architecture Foundation of BC, 2014

Available at many fine retailers throughout the West Kootenay.

Gallery Thurs - Sun 1 - 4 Theatre Workshops Community Events Japanese Canadian Museum Tues - Sun 1 - 4 Visit our website for schedule of events

Handmade in Kaslo

www.honeycandles.com

www.thelangham.ca • 447 A Avenue, Kaslo • 250-353-2661

Kaslo & Area Vacation Accommodations Kaslo Manor Lodge

Birkwood Cottage

250-505-3953 42

Relax in a charming heritage home, located mere steps away from Kasloʼs main street and the shores of beautiful Kootenay lake. This beautifully decorated suite features contemporary furnishings, deluxe linens, a well equipped kitchenette and a private balcony.

www.airbnb.ca/rooms/20229839

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

250-353-2999

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Kaslo Manor Lodge offers two locations, the Lodge, and the Cottage by the River.

Both locations offer lodging for 2 to 6 people, most with kitchen facilities. Your friendly and knowledgeable hosts can provide trail information, with winter/ spring shuttle service.

www.kaslomanorlodge.com

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Community Complex

A New Year’s Day tradition in Kaslo, the Polar Bear Dip gets the hardy (and foolhardy) out for a “nice swim in the lake.” This annual event is a fundraiser for the Langham Cultural Centre.

Take the plunge at 12 noon sharp (hopping around on the beach waiting for latecomers is not an option), or drink some hot chocolate with the Photo: K Halleran locals and enjoy the great outdoors on January 1.

Winter In The Forest

Got the winter blues? This rather unusual festival offers a quick dose of fun at a dark time of year. The Kaslo & District Community Forest Society sponsors this quirky family festival at the east end of the Kaslo airport on BC Family Day, the third Monday in February.

Popular contests that are regulars at this festival include the human dogsled races for charity and the woodsmen skills competitions such as the water-boil, swede sawing contest and dot split. Enjoy homemade soups, hot dogs, bannock over the fire, maple taffy on the snow, skiing and snowshoeing (skis provided), storytelling, live music and more!

Get up-to-date info, like us on Facebook: @KasloWinterForestFestival.

The Kaslo Arena (on Arena Avenue, of course) comes alive during the winter months!

Public skating is offered Fridays 7 to 9pm and Sundays 2 to 4pm, $2/ person, $5/family.

Drop-in coed/beginner hockey is Mondays, 6:30 to 8pm; cost for adults $12, youth $5, family $25. On Thursdays from 7:30 to 8:30pm there is Skills & Drills. Cost for that is the same as for drop in.

Parents and Tots rule the ice Saturdays 4 to 5:45pm; adults pay $5, tots skate free.

For more schedule information or to book ice time for your own private game, to rent the viewing room or conference room, visit the website at www.kasloarena.ca or call 250-3532855.

The curling rink is next to the hockey rink. There are men’s, women’s and mixed leagues, a junior program, a drop-in night and an active social club, so feel free to take an evening or two to enjoy the fine company you will find there.

The curling facility can also be rented.

It has a mid-sized lounge area that is perfect as a private party venue. To make contact about curling or rentals visit their website www.kaslocurling. com – email them at kaslocurling@ gmail.com or call 250-353-2929.

Kaslo River Trail

Two beautiful covered pedestrian bridges, stained a bright beet red, now link the north and south side riverbanks so the Kaslo River Trail is an easy walking loop. The riverside trails will also take you to the True Blue Mountain Recreational Area located above the Kaslo airport.

The river trail is open for use year round, but wearing ice grippers on your boots is a good idea in the winter. Barrels of salted gravel with scoops are placed at the bottom and top of steeper slopes. Spread some gravel if a section of trail is very icy in order to provide for better and safer traction for yourself and other walkers.

Pick up the Kaslo & Area Trail Map at a Kaslo retailer. It illustrates the trails in the immediate Kaslo area, including Kaslo Village, Mt Buchanan, and True Blue trail networks. The booklet is only $2.

BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

New Denver

Kaslo | New Denver

Baby, It’s Cold Out Here!

Silverton & Hills

On the shores of Slocan Lake, beneath the snowfields of the Valhalla Glacier, you will find the picturesque Village of New Denver. This tiny town has a surprising number of restaurants, shops and galleries to explore along its heritage main street. Powder access trails nearby are Kokanee Glacier Park entrance, Idaho Peak, Galena and Sandon.

Six Stupendous Snow Days

Third Friday of the month there’s square dancing at the Bosun Hall with a five piece live band and caller. Donations are accepted to help pay for the hall rental.

Saturday: Go for a skate at the Silverton Curling Rink (they can get rid of the centre wall between the two curling rinks and make it into kind of like a normal rink.) Call 250-358-7162 for times.

Sunday: Head up to Hills and the Valhalla Hills Ski Trails, between New Denver and Summit Lake. A visitor wrote to tell the club “Your hilly black trails are the best “terrain park” I have ever seen for xc skiers. You did an amazing job laying out those trails and then clearing them. We had so much fun… and we are in our early 50s.”

Monday: Go for a stroll along the lakeshore and end up at the gym at the Slocan Community Health Centre, down on Galena Avenue.

Tuesday: Head up to the ghost town of Sandon. Bring your x-country or touring skis and spend an exhilarating day in the high elevation powder. There are 5 km of groomed trails along the old Kaslo & Slocan Railway. An old prospector’s cabin has been renovated into a warming hut for skiers. (Drive up to Sandon – when you reach the right hand turn to Sandon and the Museum, keep going a bit further towards Cody and watch for the trailhead.)

Wednesday: Join the locals and try ice fishing on Summit Lake (halfway to Nakusp) or Fish and Bear Lakes in the pass between Kaslo and New Denver.

SLOCAN LAKE’S GROCERY STORE LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED Fresh meat cut daily instore • Lots of local products • Deli • Fresh produce • Weekly flyer • and more Corner of Hwy 31A & Hwy 6 New Denver 250-358-2270 Hours: 8am - 6pm, 7 days a week www.newmarketfoods.ca

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Ancient HeAling WAters AWAit

This lakeside community is embraced by both the Monashee and Selkirk Mountains. The name of the town derives from the native word for “bay of quiet waters” Neqpo’sp.

There’s plenty to do in Nakusp once old man winter checks in. Snowmobiling, snowshoeing and any type of skiing including x-country, downhill, heli-skiing and back country skiing are popular here. For x-country skiers and snowshoers, there are increasingly more trails to choose from. Stop in at Shon’s Bike and Ski shop near the historic Leland Hotel for trail updates and rentals if you need them.

Maybe the best thing about spending time in Nakusp in the winter is how amazing it is to complement your fresh air activities with your choice from the wealth of restorative amenities on offer – many of them available on a walk-in basis. Complete a morning spent snowshoeing or skiing with a massage at the Wellness Centre (on 3rd Avenue) or feel gorgeous soaking in one of Nakusp’s two hotsprings resorts. Breathe in new life during your stay and leave restored, body and soul.

For more information, check in at the Visitor Centre, 92 6th Ave 1-800909-8819, or www.nakusparrowlakes.com

What to do today?

Not every day is an ideal ski or sledding day. When you want to mix it up a bit, and you’re feeling a bit more indoorsy than outdoorsy, here are four suggestions: Take a yoga or Tai Chi class at the Old Firehall. There’s always something going on there. Find the schedule posted beside the door.

Bring your skates and go to a Toonie skate or drop-in hockey. For the schedule, call the village office at 250-265-3689 or check out the community events calendar: www.nakusparrowlakes.com/events-calendar/ Winter Wednesdays at Nakusp Hot Springs is a great deal with admission only $6.50. On Mondays that aren’t holidays, the BC Transit Bus takes people up to the Nakusp Hot Springs and bus passengers pay Winter Wednesday rates. Bus fare is only $2.50 per round trip. The bus picks people up at Save-on Foods on Broadway at 1:15pm.

Go to the market! There are 2 year-round markets: Fringe Fridays are 1 to 6pm and the Farmers Market happens on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, both at the Old Firehall on 5th Street, just up from Broadway.

Halcyon Hot Springs

Relax and enjoy our world renowned mineral pools, accommodations and full service spa.

Experience gourmet food in the Kingfisher Restaurant and Lounge.

68KM SOUTH OF R E V E L S TO K E O N A R ROW L A K E

1.888.689.4699 H A L c yO N - H OT S P R i N g S . c O M 44

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

Beautiful Halcyon Hot Springs Village & Spa is a spectacular lakeshore getaway located in the pristine mountains bordering Upper Arrow Lakes. The views from the terraced mineral pools (hot, warm or cold) are outstanding.

The Halcyon Hot Springs water is historically known to soothe body, mind and soul and offer relief from pain. The Spa at Halcyon offers complete spa service. Accommodation is comfortable in chalets, cottages and cabins. For the mobile guest there is a small full service RV park.

The Kingfisher Restaurant & Lounge allows for a casual meal as well as fine dining, with spectacular views through the large picture windows, and cozy, intimate booth seating. Other services include a laundry facility and gift shop. Halcyon caters especially to corporate retreats, banquets and weddings.

Fishing is great on Arrow Lake and even from the dock at Halcyon.

Snowshoeing and x-country skiing at the resort or in the surrounding areas is invigorating and best complemented with a relaxing spell in the healing waters of the hot springs fed pool.

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kꝏtenay Lake

Nakusp

Nakusp

Kꝏtenay Lake

Nakusp

Nakusp Hot Springs

The Nakusp Hot Springs are located deep in the forest in the Selkirk Mountains 12 km from Nakusp along the roaring Kuskanax River. Snug updated cedar chalets provide charming accommodation, and old logging roads, perfect for x-country skiing and snowshoeing, radiate from the complex.

After a bracing outdoorsy day, luxuriate in the two naturally heated mineral pools: one is hot at 41°C (106°F) for your soaking enjoyment, the other, at 38°C (100°F) is lovely for swimming. The pools are open from 10:30am to 9pm daily.

Go Outside and Play

Relax - Nakusp Hot Springs

South of Nakusp off Hwy 6 at Box Lake, the Wensley Creek X-Country Ski Trails offer a variety of trails for beginner and intermediate skiers. There is a warming shelter at the midpoint of the 6 mile (9 km) network of trails.

X-country trails have also been brushed out recently around the nearby Nakusp Hot Springs. Several wilderness hot springs on the east side of Upper Arrow Lake, north of Nakusp off Hwy 23, can be reached on skis, snowshoes, or via snowmobile. There’s nothing quite like the presence of steaming hot water in the midst of a snow-covered forest to

warm your soul. (In non-snowy months you can drive into these wilderness springs.)

Hot springs are found at Halcyon (above a ghost town on undeveloped private land but available to the public), Halfway River, and St. Leon Creek (privately owned). Contact the Nakusp Visitor Centre for directions, current road conditions and accessibility at 26th Avenue, 1-800-909-8819, or www.nakusparrowlakes.com.

Public skating and toonie hockey (half the rink each) are open to everyone at the Nakusp Arena Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 11:30am to 5pm.

ARROWLAKESLODGE@CMHINC.COM BC Canada

www.gokootenays.com

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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X-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing

Nakusp

There are so many routes to choose from if you want to explore the hills surrounding Nakusp. The Nakusp to Rosebery Railway Trail ascends gently from Nakusp to Summit Lake, then slopes downward to Rosebery where you can connect with the Galena Trail.

It is possible to access this trail from many points where it crosses local roads and Highway 6, or you might choose to start at the trailhead in Nakusp, at the junction of Highway 6 and 23.

The Jackrabbit Interpretive Trail is shorter, only 4 km, with parking at either end. As you ski along, stop and pause to read the interpretive signs that offer you a primer on the kind of forest that is surrounding you, an explanation of local wildlife habitat, and at one of the viewpoints, information about local history.

The trail also boasts a warming hut. The Jackrabbit Trail is a project of the Nakusp and Area Community Forest. You can join the trail from Upper Brouse Road or from Wilson Lake Road.

South of Nakusp off Hwy 6 at Box Lake, the Wensley Creek Cross-Country Ski Trails offer a variety of x-country ski trails for beginner and intermediate skiers. There is a warming shelter at the midpoint of the 6 mile (9 km) network of trails and someone almost always skis out early on a Sunday to get the fire lit. Cozy!

Brochures and maps for Nakusp’s trails are stocked at the Visitor Centre on 6th Avenue NW in Nakusp or you can download them from www.nakusptrails.ca

Relax. Refresh. Return.

Summit Lake Ski Area

1-866-999-4528

250-265-4528 Web: www.nakusphotsprings.com Email: info@nakusphotsprings.com Follow us on

Facebook.com/NakuspHotSprings

You sure can have a lot of fun in a day at the Summit Lake Ski Hill. It’s a volunteer-run hill and the community spirit that keeps the hill going guarantees a fun experience that is worlds away from the trendy resorts. There are 8 ski or snowboarding runs from beginner to expert (T Bar lift), a bunny hill (handle tow) and a tube park! If half your party prefers a more horizontal snow trek, there are x-country trails and snowshoeing trails in the Summit Ski area in addition to the downhill runs.

Although several of the runs are challenging for the expert skier or snowboarder, Summit is the perfect hill for kids and beginners of any age. You can get lessons from certified instructors, there are quite a few hill areas meant for the novice skier and there is a cafe to hang out in when your legs start to feel a bit wobbly. A day at Summit is a hoot; it’s winter fun that is accessible to just about anybody.

Summit Lake Ski Hill overlooks the beautiful Summit Lake, 10 miles (16 km) east of Nakusp. Hours are Wednesday-Sunday from 10am-3pm, and Friday nights 6-9pm. www.skisummitlake.com

ard the o B d n a i Sk enays! t o o K Open Wed to Sun, 10am – 3pm e h t f Side o Night Skiing Fridays 6 – 9pm Warmer

Ski and Snowboard Area

Lake

250-265-3312 info@skisummitlake.com Far Out Café

Legendary Homemade Burgers!

Affordable Family Skiing Rental Shop

www.skisummitlake.com 46

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

• CROSS COUNTRY SKIING • SNOWSHOEING • TUBING

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kꝏtenay Lake

P

Photo: Jeremie, Jalapeno Vision

Kꝏtenay Lake

❄ Ymir SnowFest. Jalapeno Vision

Events

December 15 10am - 4pm

Winlaw Winter Wonderland community market and holiday event!

For information coop@kootenayfood.com

December 16

1 - 3:30pm

Taghum Hall’s Country Christmas Christmas market for children (all items under $5) Entry by donation. www.taghumhall.ca

December 21-23

❄

Kaslo Winter in the Forest. Photo: Daphne Hunter

❄

Kaslo Jamboree the Greatest Hockey Tournament on Earth

January 12 & 13

KEEN Rippin Chix Steeps and Powder Camp Whitewater Ski Resort www.rippinchix.com

Fishing Derby. Photo: Kerry Reed

Whitewater Ski Hill. Photo: Jayson McRae-Murdock

February 9

March 2

Ymir Snowfest

The 13th Annual North Valley Mountain Film Festival Silverton Memorial Hall

Facebook: Ymir Snowfest

February 10

January 16–23

Skied Dating Celebrate LOVE Day

Junior National Rossland www.redresort.com

February 15 7 - 9pm

The Canadian Open Freeride Championships

Whitewater Ski Resort www.skiwhitewater.com

White Buffalo Storytelling

January 19 10am - 3pm

Taghum Hall Winter Market www.taghumhall.ca

❄

The Bridge View Cafe, 112 - 1290 Esplanade Ave, Trail

February 16 10am - 3pm

Taghum Hall Winter Market

January 19 & 20 Winter Carnival & Snow Ball Apres

– (all ages) Trail Memorial Centre Arena

Whitewater Ski Resort www.skiwhitewater.com

BC Family Day Kaslo’s Winter in the Forest Festival

January 24–27

Facebook Kaslo Winter in the Forest

December 31

New Years Eve Family Fun Night Rossland www.redresort.com

December 31

New Years Eve Ski to the Warming Hut BF: Arrow Lakes Cross Country Ski Club ____________________

January 1

Fishing Derby, Balfour

February 18

Rossland Winter Carnival www.rosslandwintercarnival.com

January 30

Snowed in Comedy Tour

❄

The Bailey Theatre 1501 Cedar Ave., Trail ____________________

February 2

Tour de Soup

250-226-0008

January 1

Kaslo Bay Park, Nelson’s Lakeside Park, Gyro Park in Trail

Silverton Memorial Hall 203 Lake Street, Silverton

Whitewater Ski Resort www. skiwhitewater.com

January 11

The Opera Carmen

Nelson Whitewater Ski Resort www.skiwhitewater.com

❄❄❅❆

BC Canada

live from the Met royaltheatretrail.com

February 9

Metal & Mayhem Park Event

February 23 & 24

Rattlecat Cup Banked Slalom Rossland www.redresort.com

Slopestyle competition Rossland www.redresort.com

www.gokootenays.com

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

March 15

❄

Bloom Nightclub, Nelson Friday www.kootenaymusicawards.ca _______________________

❆

❄ ❄❅

Seed Exchange & Special Workshops Crescent Valley Hall 1385 Hwy. 6

The Kootenay Music Awards Show

February 22–24

February 23 & 24

Seedy Sunday Slocan Valley

Rossland www.redresort.com

Monty Python’s Spamalot

Kootenay Coldsmoke PowderFest Nelson

Community Day at Whitewater

Appetite for Art showcasing Nelson artists, restaurants and wineries www.ndac.ca

Beer Goggles

March 1, 2019 Rossland Light Opera players present

Ymir Snowfest

❄

March 15 & 16

February 22 & 23

February 2 8pm -1am

February

March 2

(Canadian Triathlon) www.skiwhitewater. com

Miner’s Hall Rossland rlop.ca

Winter Blues Boogie

live from the Met www.royaltheatretrail.com

Canadian Formal, eh!

Family Day on the Slocan Valley Rail Trail

www.gillandgift.com

Polar Bear Swim

March 2 The opera LA FILLE DU REGIMENT

March 9

February 18 11am - 2pm

Black Jack Ski area, Rossland www.skiblackjack.ca

at noon

www.northvalleyfilmfestival.com

March 3 11am - 2pm

www.taghumhall.ca

December 22 1 - 2:30pm

Christmas Skate with Santa

WK Events

❄

April 7

Beach Party Weekend Nelson Whitewater Ski Resort skiwhitewater.com

April 8-12

Kootenay Festival of the Arts Dance portion Trail, BC Other genres: April 23-27, 2019 Highlights concert: April 27/28 www.kootenayfestivalofthearts.ca

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

47

West Kꝏtenay

Kꝏtenays

Winter Markets Taghum Hall Winter Markets

Saturdays: 10am - 3pm January 19, February 16, March 16, April 20 20+ Vendors. www.taghumhall.ca

Robson Sunday Markets

Sundays: 9am - 1pm Community Hall, Robson 3067 Waldie Avenue. Breakfast is served until food runs out. Lots of crafts, collectibles, borscht, treats, and so much more.

Creston Monthly Indoor Farmers’ Markets

Saturdays: 10am - 1pm Creston and District Community Complex until Christmas. February and March Markets TBA. Check website for updates www.crestonvalleyfarmersmarket.ca

Nelson EcoSociety Markets

Enjoy the wonderful flavours, smells and artistry of locally grown, baked and handmade goods at the annual EcoSociety Winter Markets!

Saturdays: January 28, February 25 and March 25 at Hart Hall, 501 Carbonate Street in Nelson from 10am to 3pm. $2 admission at the door goes to the EcoSociety to help cover the costs.

Nakusp Fringe Market 12 noon - 4pm, Fridays. Showcasing small business and non-profit organizations, and garage sale tables.

Old Fire Hall, 90 5th Avenue, NW, Nakusp

Nakusp Farmer’s Market

Everybody deserves a holiday in February – that’s an undeniable Canadian fact. Most provinces set aside a day so we can all get away from our usual schedule. In British Columbia, like neighbouring Alberta, it’s called Family Day and it now comes on the third Monday of the month – this February it’s the 18th. The history of this statutory holiday is only a few years long, so some traditions are still in the making.

Count on every recreational facility in the West Kootenay to at least discount their fees, and some open their doors to everyone for free on Family Day, or on the Saturday or Sunday of the long weekend. For a list of the major West Kootenay rec. centres, see page 30.

City of Trail

Last year, the City of Trail offered free admission to public skating in the Trail Memorial Centre on Saturday afternoon and in the evening, in the kids rink, a no-cost ‘glow skate’. Skate rentals were free too, and hot chocolate and hot dogs were served.

Red Mountain and Whitewater

Last year, offered half price lift tickets on Family Day (BC residents only) to encourage the whole family to get outside together.

1765 Columbia Avenue, Rossland.

Farmers, food producers, musicians, and artisans for your ‘shop local’ event of the month! Nov 3, Dec 8, Jan 26, Feb 23 and March 23, from 1 - 5pm.

Montrose celebrates BC Family Day on the Monday at the Community Hall and Park (490 9th Avenue) from 12 noon - 2pm. Last year everybody got to play a game of street hockey with the Nitehawks Junior B team, and there was snowshoeing, ice bowling and BBQ. In Salmo on Family Day Monday, the fun is at the ski hill from 10am to 3pm. Everything is free: complimentary lift tickets, ski and snowboard lessons, refreshments, face painting, games and races, bocce, snow painting… So much fun!

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Kaslo

The most commonly heard description of Kaslo’s Winter in the Forest Festival is “It’s so Canadian!”

This quirky family festival takes place at the east end of the Kaslo airport lands, just beneath all the beautiful True Blue trails.

Live music from local musicians fill the snowy festival grounds and on a clear day the view of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking.

Popular contests that are regulars at this festival include the human dogsled races for charity and the woodsmen skills competitions. The Water Boil is a contest where teams are given a hunk of cedar, a hatchet, some matches and a can with soapy water in it. First contestant to start a fire and get the water boiling wins.

Enjoy homemade soups made by Kaslo’s inimitable cooks, barbecued hot dogs, bannock cooked on sticks over the fire, and sticky hot maple taffy on the snow.

Kaslo’s Outdoor Recreation and Trails Society is busy outfitting kids with x-country skis (no charge) - others are snowshoeing or heading out on a guided nature walk.

Meanwhile, some gigantic snow sculptures are nearing completion. For more information check it out on Facebook: KasloWinterForestFestival.

Slocan Valley

Last year teens got free admission to a Nitehawks game!

Rossland Miner’s Hall Farmers’ Market

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

Family Day Long Weekend

Fruitvale

Saturdays from 10am – 2pm.

Old Fire Hall 90 5th Avenue, NW, Nakusp

48

Winter in The Forest Festival Photo: Daphne Hunter

The annual Winter Day on the Trail now takes place on Family Day, 12 noon - 3pm.

Meet everyone at the Winlaw Station and Trailhead. Slocan Valley Recreation will be offering skis for kids and snowshoes for adults to use, should you not have them and want to be part of the Trail experience.

There will also be ski waxing demos and free lessons in classic and skate skiing. A bonfire will be blazing and refreshments and hearty meals served courtesy of trail supporters (donations accepted!) Details? Find the Slocan Valley Heritage Trail Society on Facebook or www.slocanvalleyrailtrail.ca

www.gokootenays.com

BC Canada

Kꝏtenay Lake

Family Day in the West Kootenay

Kꝏtenay Lake

Ktunaxa Grill pg 37

Fresh, local indigenous-inspired cuisine.

Located 45 minutes north of Nelson, open year round from 7:30am to 9:30pm. Reservations recommended.

250-229-4212 or 1-800-668-1171.

WOODBURY JB’s Restaurant & Pub pg 38 Where visitors become locals! Bring your friends and family for their world famous fish and chips, flame broiled burgers, AAA steak and piled high nachos, all at a good value. Please call ahead for seasonal hours. Located just 4 km north of Ainsworth Hot Springs on Hwy 31, 250-353-7716 or 250353-7717.

CASTLEGAR

NAKUSP

Dairy Queen pg 14

Kingfisher Restaurant pg 44 Hume Hotel pg 18

Dairy Queen® has been focussed on creating positive memories for all who touch DQ for over 75 years. DQ food and treats hold a special place in the hearts of fans of all ages. Their fans have always been DQ’s priority, and that’s why they continue to look for new ways to surprise and delight. The Dairy Queen offers a variety of treats and products including burgers, chicken strips, chicken sandwiches, artisan sandwiches and the famous DQ softserve. 604-18th Street, 250-365-5522.

Open 7 days a week: Sun 11am to 9pm, Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs 10am to 9 pm, Fri & Sat 10am to 10pm.

NELSON

Halcyon Hot Springs Village & Spa. The talented culinary team welcome you to the Kingfisher Restaurant. The setting is spectacular, overlooking the lakes and mountains. The Kingfisher is known for its excellent food and great service, a wine list of local and international wines, and a wonderful selection of beverages. Dress up or down and relax in the fireside lounge, or reserve the private dining room for your group. Open daily. Call 1-888689-4699.

The Lodge at Arrow Lakes pg 45

Centrally located in downtown Nakusp, at 515 Broadway, the Lodge offers something for everyone. The Arrow Lake Tavern is renowned for its Not all those who wander are lost… hearty pub fare. The dining room is The Wandering Greek Oven Restaurant perfect for families, serving everything from a quick bowl of homemade soup is an independently owned and to a full menu offering fine dining operated family-style restaurant CASTLEGAR and nightly specials in the evenings. that serves authentic and flavourful Restaurant open daily Monday to Greek cuisine. The food is inspired B’s Eatery & Public House Friday, 6am to 9pm, Saturday and from cuisines that the owners have Chances pg 16 discovered while wandering across the Sunday 7am to 9pm. Pub open daily B’s Public House is one of Castlegar’s 11am to 12am. 250-265-3618. globe, all of which are cooked with funnest places to wine and dine. They love by the owner/Greek chef, and offer a full service restaurant and served by an attentive and friendly lounge with the biggest screen in the staff. They take great care to produce NELSON Kootenays to watch your favourite consistently delicious selections with Cake Betty pg 27 games. Enjoy the pub style atmosphere fresh ingredients and award-winning Cake Betty creates visually amazing, and the full menu, ranging from homemade recipes. imaginative and delectable cakes unbeatable wings to steak dinners. B’s to order, suitable for any occasion.

Come try out the dinner, pizza and Public House also offers a full banquet Cake Betty is more than just cakes, lunch menus!

Serving Castlegar facility and nothing beats a prime rib however. They also offer cake by with delivery and pickup options. buffet prepared by their Chef and the slice, cupcakes, truffles, fresh Open Tuesday through Saturday his team. B’s is open 7 days a week baked croissants, homemade bagels, 11:30am–8:30pm.

400 Columbia starting at 11am, and is located in cinnamon buns, breakfast muffins, .

Avenue Castlegar, 250-365-2311 Chances Community Centre next to and much, much more. Come by for the Castlegar Airport. Hope to see you lunch, daily soups, salads, wraps, and soon!

KASLO sandwiches. Stay and eat in the café or take it to go. Licensed and free Kaslo Hotel pg 2 Cuisine of India pg 16 WiFi too. Monday to Friday 7:30am to Dine in the family friendly pub Enjoy the authentic taste of India.

5:30pm. Saturday 10am to 5:30pm. (children allowed until 9pm with an Committed to the highest quality in adult) or on the covered patio with its 250-352-0884. 709C Vernon Street, food, drink and service, each dish Nelson. www.cakebetty.ca breathtaking view of Kootenay Lake. is prepared to your specification by Enjoy one of twelve craft beers on tap, Cuisine of India’s Executive Chefs: reap Empire Coffee pg 24 or try one of the many great dishes the benefits of their many years of Welcome to Empire Coffee, Nelson’s from their extensive menu. 430 Front experience. only third wave coffee house serving Street, Kaslo. 250-353-7714.

As everything is made fresh to order Direct Trade coffee from Stumptown www.kaslohotel.com many of your special requests, i.e.

Coffee Roasters and pour-over organic food allergies and other dietary Treehouse Restaurant pg 40 teas. Fresh baking and sandwiches are requirements, can be respected. made in-house daily. Come enjoy the Located on Front Street in Kaslo, the Please speak with your server about unique solarium seating in the sun Treehouse Restaurant is known far any concerns, or for some help in and warmth with friends. Located next and wide for their Eggs Benedict, making what can be a challenging to The Adventure Hotel, 616 Vernon omelettes and breakfast bowls, decision about what to choose from Street, Nelson. Open 6am weekdays, as well as daily morning specials. the extensive menu! Eat-in, catering and 7am on weekends and holidays.

The extensive menu includes great and take-out options. Mon - Fri 11am vegetarian, burgers, chicken, nachos, to 9pm, Sat 12noon to 9pm and Sun burritos, steaks, wraps and so much 4 to 9pm. Lunch buffet: Mon - Fri more! All with generous portions 11am to 2pm. 908 Columbia Avenue, and priced to please. Choose from a Castlegar. 250-365-0999, large selection of homemade desserts. www.cuisineofindia.ca Treat the whole family. Open daily at 6:30am, fully licensed. 419 Front Street, Kaslo. 250-353-2955.

BC Canada

Wandering Greek Oven Restaurant pg 36

www.gokootenays.com

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

The nostalgic Hume Hotel & Spa

features three different venues for your dining pleasure that serve the same menu – The General Store Family Restaurant, Mike’s Place Pub, and the Library Lounge.

The General Store Family Restaurant offers full food and

WK Dining Guide

AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS RESORT

beverage service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Hume’s Grand Sunday Brunch is served from 10:30am to 1:30pm and is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Friday, Saturday and Sunday after 5pm you should experience our famous Prime Rib Dinner Special.

The Library Lounge offers a more intimate, fireside ambiance with nightly live jazz music being offered Sunday through Thursday. The Library has compiled an impressive list of craft cocktails and local craft beer. Minors are not permitted in the Library Lounge.

Mike’s Place Pub is a three tiered casual room always playing the latest sports on the big screens. Happy Hour is between 2 and 5pm daily.

Please visit www.humehotel.com for more info on our food & beverage service. Located on the corner of Ward and Vernon Streets, Nelson. Call 250352-5331.

Itza Ristorante & Pizzeria pg 20

Indulge in the flavours of Itza’s fresh handmade pastas or savour the taste of their national and international award winning pizzas. Explore Itza’s unique and contemporary culinary offerings. Itza is happy to satisfy your palate with a select list of Italian wines and BC VQA plus 6 taps of BC craft beers. Or how about a refreshing classic martini?

All hungry people are welcome to enjoy the relaxed ambiance, or grab it and go. Lunch: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:30am to 2:30pm. Dinner Tuesday to Saturday, 4:30pm till late, Sunday 4:30 to 8:30pm. Downtown Nelson at 413 Hall Street. Reservations suggested, 250-352-3573.

Kootenay Co-op

Salad Bar & Hot Bar | Café Page 52, back page

The Kootenay Co-op’s award-winning restaurant is the perfect spot to fuel up for your next adventure. Everything they serve includes certified-organic, healthy ingredients, including their hot bar, salad bar, bowls, wraps, sandwiches and salads. Grab a fresh smoothie or espresso drink to complement your meal, and don’t forget to save room for cake. Best of all, the Kootenay Co-op is memberowned! 777 Baker Street, Nelson.

250-354-4077 www.kootenay.coop

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Kꝏtenay Lake

WK Dining Guide

NELSON Louie’s Steakhouse & Lounge pg 24 At the Adventure Hotel

Louie’s Steakhouse offers a distinctly metropolitan culinary experience in Nelson’s historic, bustling downtown.

For an intimate evening for two, or a casual gathering amongst friends, Louie’s Steakhouse & Lounge is sure to provide an experience you won’t soon forget. Specializing in signature steaks, specialty pastas, rustic thin crust pizza, and FRESH seafood, Louie’s Steakhouse offers the finest quality food and exemplary service in an atmosphere of abundant comfort.

Located in The Adventure Hotel, 616 Vernon Street, Nelson. 250-3525570.

Main Street Diner pg 29

Enjoy a casual, fun atmosphere and consistently excellent food, with menu items for everyone including roast leg of lamb, souvlaki, sirloin steaks, gourmet burgers, melts, wraps, a fabulous kids’ menu and homemade English style fish and hand cut chips. Also offering homemade desserts such as baklava and double baked cheesecakes, plus after dinner specialty coffees. Main Street Diner is open daily at 11am for lunch and dinner. 616 Baker Street, Nelson. 250-354-4848. Fully licensed.

Outer Clove Restaurant pg 26

Longtime Nelson favourite, Outer Clove Restaurant, offers contemporary and classic dishes from around the world. While garlic infuses the food - from a subtle hint to a more intense flavour explosion - the service is warm and friendly, and the vibe casual. Everything on the evolving menu is freshly prepared from scratch and there are daily lunch and dinner specials. Enjoy a draft NBC beer with your meal, or a BC wine or one of our famous cocktails.

The cozy, family friendly restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, at 536 Stanley Street, Nelson (half a block uphill from Otter Books on Baker). 250-354-1667. Check out the menu at www.outerclove.com Like us on Facebook.

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NELSON

NELSON

TRAIL

Prestige Hotels & Resorts pg 51

Uptown Sports Bar pg 24

Benedict’s Steakhouse & Tunnel Pub pg 6

Featuring a diverse mix of local ingredients, the West Coast Grill, located at the Prestige Lakeside Resort Nelson, offers delectable and fresh culinary creations to suit every appetite. Having an after-work drink with friends? Or a dinner meeting with colleagues? You will find an abundance of savoury meals and carefully selected wines to choose from. With a stunning waterfront patio overlooking Kootenay Lake and the Selkirk Mountains, you can admire the view as you dine. Or join us inside where it will feel like home in our relaxed scenic setting.

Happy Hour is offered every day from 3-6pm and features a special appetizer menu and drink specials!

For those looking for a more casual dining experience, the Prestige Lakeside Resort is also home to Vault Sports Lounge, and Le Petit Cafe and Creperie.

Rel-ish Bistro pg 22 At Rel-ish, Chef Trevor Ditzel and his staff offer their patrons a divine mix of nouveau flavours and triedand-true favourites from your past.

This is the place where hipster style blends with a sincere love of cooking from the heart. From appetizers to desserts, Rel-ish delights the palates of the young and old, the trendy and traditional. Licensed. Open from 8am - 10pm daily. 301 Baker Street, Nelson. 250-352-5232.

The Adventure Hotel

The Uptown Sports Bar is a premium gastropub and Nelson’s sports headquarters. With FRESH local food made in-house by their award winning chef and the friendliest staff in town, it truly is “the place to be… and be seen.” Come as you are. The welcoming atmosphere is created by the great team, urban art deco design, great music and dozens of flat screens. The Uptown Sports Bar is the perfect place to meet associates for lunch, celebrate a special occasion or gather your friends for the game.

Open 7 days a week at 11am.

Located in The Adventure Hotel, 616 Vernon Street, 250-352-2715.

ROSSLAND The Vel•vet Restaurant & Lounge pg 12 Locally inspired craft cooking.

Welcoming travelers to British Columbia who have a craving for soulful dining, locally foraged food drenched in inviting mountain views. Executive Chef Marc-Andre Choquette introduces subtle French influences in a warm inviting atmosphere. Warm your body and soul, while feasting among fellow adventurers, longtime and newfound friends. Dining at The Velvet is an experience in itself. Serving breakfast, lunch, aprés and dinner. In-room dining available 24 hours/day.

4306 Red Mountain Road.

Reservations, 250-362-5155.

Tandoori Indian Grill & Lounge pg 20 Come in and enjoy enticing new flavours at Tandoori Indian Grill & Lounge. Our authentic Indian chefs will dazzle your palette with a grand selection of finely spiced dishes each day of the week. Many gluten free and vegan options available. Enjoy a beverage from our selection of local and imported brews, fine wines and delicious cocktails. 409 Kootenay Street, Nelson. 250-352-5999. www.tandoorindiangrill.com

2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

#gokootenays - share the adventure!

Tantalize your taste buds with Benedict’s signature slow roasted prime rib, flame broiled steaks, homemade burgers, soups and salads. Daily food & drink specials complement their extensive menu where you’ll find all your favourites plus Benedict’s unique take on the classics. For casual fine dining or a relaxing pub atmosphere, Benedict’s has you covered! Happy Hour in the pub, Monday through Saturday, 1 to 5:30pm. Reservations 250-368-3360 or online at www. benedictssteakhouse.ca 3 Schofield Highway, Trail.

“Give Us A Try… Your Mouth Will Love It!”

The Colander pg 7 The Colander Restaurant is a family restaurant specializing in great Italian food. Lots to eat, served family style, at reasonable prices - The Colander has become known as “The Trail Tradition.” The Colander special includes: salad, spaghetti and meatballs, chicken and jojo potatoes, and a dinner roll. Or you can choose from a variety of other Italian favourites.

Visa and Mastercard accepted. 1475 Cedar Avenue, Trail. 250-364-1816.

Now available at Waneta Plaza - The Colander Express with pasta and more.

Foxy’s Fine Food & Drinks pg 8 Discover the city’s premier casual fine dining destination in the award winning Best Western Plus Columbia River Hotel. Foxy’s offers up delicious West Coast cuisine, great wines, contemporary cocktails, lavish décor and legendary service.

Daily drink specials plus… Come in for Ladies’ Night on Wednesdays: Foxy Ladies drink for $3! Finish off your work week with Foxy Friday’s Famous $5 Features. Foxy Families: minors accompanied by a parent or guardian permitted until 9pm. For reservations call 250-368-3355.

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Discover the West Kootenays with Prestige Experience the exceptional hospitality of Prestige while exploring the scenic beauty of the West Kootenay Rockies.

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Save on your hotel rates and lift passes by booking both with us!

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prestigehotelsandresorts.com • 1-87-PRESTIGE Golden • Radium • Cranbrook • Rossland • Nelson BC Canada

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2018 | 19 GO & DO Winter

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Front Street

Vernon St

Herridge Lane Victoria St

Cedar St

Hall St

Josephine St

Ward St

Stanely St

Kootenay St

Baker St

Hendryx St

Vernon St

Community-owned Grocery Store