Guide 2015
Your guide to ever ything Spar wood!
What to see
What to do
Where to go
Conserving the land Teck is committed to responsible, sustainable resource development. That commitment includes working to enhance biodiversity and to create benefits for the communities in the areas where we operate. As part of our sustainability efforts, Teck has purchased approximately 7,150 hectares of private lands in the Elk Valley and Flathead River Valley for wildlife and habitat conservation purposes.
What’s inside the guide! 4. Sparwood at a glance 5. Calendar of Events 6. Where the Water is 8. 5 reasons Norma McDougall loves Sparwood 10. Golfing in Sparwood 11. Camping in Sparwood 12. Sparwood Trails 13. Recreation 14. Coal Miner Days 15. Map - Index
The Sparwood Guide is published once a year by: The Free Press, 342 2nd Ave, A Division of Black Press Box 2350, Fernie, BC, V0B 1M0 Phone: 250-423-4666
SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Sara Moulton ART DIRECTOR: Kaitlyn Haarstad PHOTOGRAPHY: Jenna Jensen and
All content is Copyright 2014/15 and may not be reproduced without prior approval of the publisher.
The Free Press file photos
WRITER: Jenna Jensen PUBLISHER: Andrea Horton
Front page photo by Jenna Jensen
SPARWOOD CHIROPRACTIC • Custom orthotics. • ART and muscle taping. • Prenatal and pediatric care. • WCB, ICBC, extended health plans. Seeking the cause, providing necessary treatment and promoting prevention is our priority.
Dr. Ryan Hoetmer
Dr. Eden MacGregor
Dr. Amanda Wyss
Located in the Greenwood Mall next to ReMax
250-425-6330 • www.sparwoodchiro.com Photo by Jenna Jensen
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SPARWOOD Population: 4,200 Elevation: 1,140m Incorporated: 1966 Schools: Frank J Mitchell Elementary School (K-6) and Sparwood Secondary School (7-12) Mayor: Lois Halko
Claim To Fame: The Big Green Truck Behind The Name: Tree’s selected for harvest in the area were used for spar’s on ships. A railway stop to collect the logs onto railway cars was known as Sparwood, before even a dream of the town was born.
Who's Nearby: Elkford, BC a 30 minute drive north Fernie, BC a 20 minute drive west, Cranbrook, BC a 1.5 hr. drive west, Pincher Creek, AB a 1.0 hr. drive east, Lethbridge, AB a 2.0 hr. drive east and Calgary, AB 2.5 hr. drive northeast.
Calendar of Events
November
February
Arts & Heritage Council 35th Annual Craft Fair Christmas Tree Lighting in Centennial Square Sparwood Curling Club Sweetheart Bonspiel
April
Arts and Culture Week A Taste of Sparwood at the Greenwood Mall
June
Coal Miner Days Sparwood Classic 5k/8k Run Relay for Life Sparwood Fun Run Sparwood Secondary High School Commencement
July/August Farmer’s Market August
Sparwood Golf Club Championship
September
Terry Fox Run Community Registration and Information Night
October
Fire Prevention Week Events Sparwood Golf Club Iron Man Sparwood Curling Club Curling Clinic
The PrescriPTion Store Hours For What Ails You
Mon - Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm Sun 9 am - 1 pm Delivery service to Elkford every weeknight, from Monday-Friday
107 Centennial Sq, Sparwood ph 250-425-2015 fax 250-425-0294
Our pharmacy staff are able to compound prescriptions. • Wide variety of herbal and natural supplements and a variety of compression stockings and support wear. • New and changing seasonal and promotional items. Peoples Drug Mart has a loyalty program. We are proud of our knowledgeable staff. This location is easily accessible in Centennial Square
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Where the Water is Please remember:
Wildlife is abundant, so be aware and use precautions. Always tell someone where you are going and carrying a map & GPS is recommended. Wherever your travels in Sparwood bring you, leave nothing behind but your footprints.
For those looking to take a break near the Elk Valley’s pristine waters, look no further. Many river and lake side locations can be found within a short distance of Sparwood. Whether you are looking for world class fishing, or just a place to get back to nature you will be sure to find it at any one of these locations. • Elk River & Michel Creek
Fish are in abundance in the Elk River and Michel Creek in Sparwood. Cast a line below the walking bridge located on Matevic Road or explore many more great fishing spots down the edges of these cool rivers and creeks.
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• Grave Lake
A popular location with the locals, Grave Lake is the perfect spot for those who like cool water and the best mountain view. Families swim, friends float and boaters fish on this stunning body of water. Depending on the day, you are bound to see a vast array of wildlife, and people lounging on the beach enjoying the summer sun. Campsites are available at Grave Lake.
• Sulpher Springs
This spring may be tricky to find but is well worth the effort. Totally secluded in the midst of the mountain peaks and forests Sulpher Springs are naturally warm springs of water. The sulpher smell is unmistakable, but if you don’t mind the scent many soak away all of life’s stresses in this water that is said to have many healing and health benefits. Photo by Jenna Jensen
TAKE THIS TEST: Do you have... Yellow Teeth? Sensitive Teeth? Crooked Teeth? Broken Teeth? Bad Breath? Unwanted Space? Fear of Dentistry?
Sparwood Dental Clinic We can help you with all your dental needs.
Call: 250-425-7081, 1-877-325-7081
New Patients Welcome
139 Centennial Square, Sparwood PO Box 1330 V0B 2G0 www.sparwooddental.com
Photo by Jenna Jensen
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5 reasons Norma loves Sparwood
1 2 3
Clean and Welcoming Community
Norma McDougall
Sparwood is very clean and well maintained. From the snow removal in the winter to the perfectly groomed parks, hanging flower baskets and the lights on the trees during the summer, it is a very welcoming community. The recreation center, outdoor sports fields and extensive walking trails are second to none. Anyone will tell you they are proud to call Sparwood home.
Location to the Outdoors Our location in the Rocky Mountains makes it easy access to the great outdoors. From your backyard, you can be fly fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and mountain biking or camping along the river within 10 minutes. Wildlife is abundant in the Elk Valley and you can easily see deer wandering our streets. Whatever your outdoor pleasure, it is here to enjoy. People of Sparwood work hard and they like to play hard.
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People of Sparwood The people of Sparwood make this town what it is. Our June festival, Coal Miner Days, is organized almost exclusively with volunteers. From the many organizations and service clubs, to the amount raised for charities, to the pride folks put into their yards, the generosity and time that is given by folks is amazing. Sparwood truly is a great place to live, raise a family or retire.
Campground Mountain Shadow Campground is one of the best campgrounds you will find along Highway 3. With full hook-up sites to tent sites, it has something to offer every camper. New playground equipment, hot showers, free firewood, small store, easy access to walking trails, and golf course, it is all here. Our campground is very busy from May to September, and with many returning guests every year, you may want to call ahead to reserve a spot.
Titan Truck, Park and Visitor Center The Titan is the center and heart of our community. It has put Sparwood on the map and stops over 90,000 folks a year. Our beautiful visitor center is a busy hub with brochures, retail sales and summer mine tours. Titan Park is always full with visitors and locals having lunch or relaxing. Enjoy the Farmer’s Market in the park on summer Friday evenings. Everyone in town is very proud of “our” truck.
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Photos from The Free Press files
Photos by Jenna Jensen, Sara Moulton and from The Free Press files
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Sparwood Golf S
parwood Golf Club is B.C.’s eastern most golf course and a key attraction in the community. The course is always perfectly manicured and is set in a backdrop of beautiful mountain scenery. Sparwood Golf Course will offer hours of challenging fun for all experience levels. The fairways are surrounded by tall pine and spruce forests and the signature hole # 7, par 3 offers an elevated tee, well bunkered green and a putting surface shaped with undulation from front to back.
course houses high quality clothing, gear and gifts.
At the Clubhouse you will find Putters Grill, a restaurant with timeless, fresh, homemade classics and a great atmosphere. The Pro Shop at the
For more information please call 250.425.2612 or visit www.sparwoodgolf.com
With numerous events and challenges throughout the year the Sparwood Golf Club will bring golf enthusiasts many challenges or simply, a relaxing day in the mountains. For those who want even more of a workout - a well defined 4.5 km trail system winds around the course presenting bikers, hikers and runners with even more of the beauty that borders the course.
Home of the Elk Valleys Most Experienced Mechanics
Camping in Sparwood M
ountain Shadows Campground is nestled in a forest just minutes from downtown Sparwood. The campground runs during the summer months and is known for its true camping atmosphere, great scenery and plenty of amenities. Mountain Shadows Campground is operated and maintained by the Sparwood Futures Society and was established in 1986. Tent’s, RV’s and Trailers are welcome.
Full service tent/RV site in Sparwood, BC 606 Sparwood Drive - East side of Hwy 3 near Kal Tire stay@mountainshadows.ca 250-425-7815 www.mountainshadows.ca
AIN SHADO NT
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we repair anything that rolls, crawls or just sits and swings.
Free pickup and delivery in the Elk Valley ELK VALLEY THRIFT SHOP SOCIETY
Campground
Personal automotive, commercial and industrial rePair services
Thrifting at its finest! Donate your gently used items and help your community! Volunteers welcome Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 10am - 4pm 250-425-0853 Saturday: 10am - 2pm 127 Centennial Square Sunday: Closed Sparwood, BC
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Sparwood 743 Douglas Fir Road 250-425-6535, Elkford 1 Front Street 250-865-4622 or Cranbrook 701 Industrial Road 1 250-426-7247 Photo by Jenna Jensen
Come visit us nestled in the embrace of the Rocky Mountains and create memories to last a lifetime . Photo by Sara Moulton
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Sparwood Trails
Recreation T
• Cypress Park Loop – A peaceful walk through parks and glades. • Pine Forest – Walk the wood chip trail on this half forested, half
he Sparwood Recreation Department is a hub of activity within the community of Sparwood offering a vast array of family centered activities, as well as lessons and courses of all types. If you are looking to soak in the whirlpool, relax in the sauna or take the family for a swim, the pool will be a place to enjoy any time of year. For those who want to get active and stay in shape, the full gym, climbing wall, raquetball , squash and wallyball courts are sure to satisfy all sportspersons.
offers lessons in everything from swimming, spinning, guitar or making authentic homemade perogies. The options are truly endless.
Looking to make new friends or learn a new skill, throughout the year the Sparwood Recreation Department
You can also visit the website at www. Sparwood.ca/recreation for more information.
Next to the pool is the arena, with a skating and curling rink and multipurpose rooms than can be rented for all types of events. Right outside the building, even more fun can be found with the bike jump park, horseshoe pits, tennis courts and a play and water spray park sure to entertain the kids for hours.
sidewalk route.
• Historical Tour – A trip through time featuring historical mining displays in downtown Sparwood.
• Central Park Loop – This sidewalk and park loop is paved and all • • • • • • • •
within residential Sparwood Heights. Michel Trail – A beautiful forested trail walk in the Michel Creek Valley, returning along Pine Avenue sidewalk. Deer Run – A flat loop in the quiet solitude of the Sparwood Cross Country Ski area. Ponderosa – A popular roadside walk with the option of taking the wood chip trail through the secluded forest of Sparwood Heights. View Trail – A longer walk with a bit of elevation and an excellent view of the Elk Valley. Lower Sparwood Perimeter – Enjoy a social walk around the perimeter on the friendly streets of lower Sparwood. Mountain Shadows Trail – One of Sparwood’s real gems, this well established trail winds through the woods around the Golf Course. Sparwood Heights Perimeter – A challenging route crossing the Elk River twice and touring the trails of Sparwood Heights. Sparwood Classic – Almost entirely on wooded trails, this route is considered by some to be one of the best running routes in the Elk Valley.
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Photo by Jenna Jensen
Reasonable rates in clean and comfortable rooms Try our famous Seafood Chowder in our full service restaurant or relax in our cozy lounge. Open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner Full banquet and meeting facilities also available
Causeway Bay Sparwood 102 Red Cedar Drive 250 425 2003 Like us on Facebook!
CHECK OUT THE LIBRARY! 110 Pine Ave, Sparwood www.sparwood.bclibrary.ca (250) 425-2299
We are more than books WiFi Internet Copier Scanner Fax and much more! Sparwood Guide - www.thefreepress.ca 13
Coal Miner Days C
oal Miner Days is Sparwood’s largest and most anticipated annual event celebrating the community and the coal mining heritage. The festivities draw in crowds from near and far and attract those seeking great family fun. Many events are held throughout the weekend including everything from a Lions Club Pancake Breakfast to a kids festival, tug of war competition and street market. The community of Sparwood rallies together donating many volunteer hours to make the weekend event a huge success. Children spend
the days enjoying the parade, kids festival and many other unique attractions as adults enjoy barbecues live music, beer gardens and the cabaret.
Spar wood Map
113 Red Cedar Dr Sparwood, BC - (250) 425-6489
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Photo from The Free Press files
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The Elk Valley Thrift Shop is a volunteer operated second hand store located in the Sparwood Town Centre. They are a non-profit society that aims to give back to our communities and provide a clean, friendly, and organized shopping environment. They pride themselves on the principle of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” and maintain a no dumping policy which ensures that unsold items will be relocated or repurposed. They have a large variety of items including clothing, kitchenwares, and home décor. Their hours of operation are: Mon-Fri: 10am4pm, Sat: 10am-2pm, closed Sunday.
Elk Valley Thrift Shop
The Causeway Bay Hotel and Conference Centre in Sparwood offers 83 deluxe rooms and over 5,400 square feet of meeting space. All rooms have hair dryers and in-room coffee makers, microwaves, refrigerators, and high speed internet. They have a selection of king, double, single beds, and some rooms with jetted tubs. Most rooms are non smoking, and they are pet friendly. 102A Red Cedar Drive Sparwood, British Columbia V0B 2G0 www.causewaybayhotels.ca/sparwood 1-250-425-2003.
Causeway Bay Hotel
As a member of a group of locally owned and operated pharmacies across B.C., the Sparwood Peoples Drug Mart is dedicated to contributing to the health and wellness of the community. Conveniently located in Centennial Square, their accessible store makes shopping a breeze. In addition to prescription medication and a wide variety of natural supplements, be sure to see their selection of new and changing seasonal and promotional items. 107 Centennial Square, Sparwood
Peoples Drug Mart
Overwaitea Foods has been serving and supporting B.C. communities for over 95 years. They are B.C.’s very own food people – your very own food people, since 1915.
Overwaitea Sparwood
A tenting and RV/trailer site situated near Highway #3 and nestled in a cozy forested setting just minutes from downtown Sparwood.
Mountain Shadows Campground
The Elk Valley’s most experienced mechanics. For all of your personal automotive, commercial and industrial repair needs.
Mountain Mechanical
PH: 250-425-0853 or 250-425-3884 Please note they can only accept cash at this time.
Adver tisers Index
Teck is the largest employer in the Elk Valley with five mines including Coal Mountain, Elkview, Fording River, Greenhills and Line Creek.
Teck
The Sparwood Public Library is a non-profit society run by an elected board of directors. It is open Tuesday to Saturday and located, at 110 Pine Avenue in Sparwood, B.C. 250-425-2299 sparwood.bclibrary.ca.
Sparwood Public Library
A dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, long lasting smiles, minutes from downtown Sparwood.
Sparwood Dental
Serving the Elk Valley since 1999. Drs. Hoetmer, MacGregor and Wyss provide care in Sparwood Monday to Friday 8:30 - 6pm and Elkford on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Offering orthotics, ultrasound, exercises, muscle work and prenatal care. Greenwood Mall 250-425-6330 sparwoodchiro.com “Like” us on Facebook!
Sparwood Chiropractic
250-425-2015