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Contents
9 Top 10 Things to Do in Squamish
12 Where Mountains and Ocean Meet the Sky
16 Star-studded Squamish 18 F armers’ Market
20 Immerse Yourself in
26 Old-time Festival Fun in Brackendale 28 Squamish Wind Festival Celebrates Wind, Water
36 Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Squamish 38 Squamish Restaurants Tantalize Tastebuds with Variety 44 Making Your Home in Paradise:
Valley Music Festival a Huge Draw
Bustles with Activity
and Creative Spirit
30 Top 10 Sporting Events in Squamish 32 Squamish: A Hiking Heaven 34 S quamish Offers Tantalizing Web of Mountain Bike Trails
First Nations Culture and Heritage
22 Squamish’s Young Arts and Culture Scene
What to Know Before Moving to Squamish
46 Squamish a Hotbed for Entrepreneurial Growth 48 New ‘Rec Tech’ Sector Thriving in Squamish 50 2015-16 Events & Festivals
DISCOVER SQUAMISH
COVER
VOLUME 2 / ISSUE 1
publisher
photographer
published by
Darren Roberts droberts@squamishchief.com
David Buzzard
The Squamish Chief
editor
Visitors take in the panoramic views as they upload The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish on Saturday, March 7, 2015.
www.squamishchief.com
Christine Endicott cendicott@squamishchief.com sales manager Lynn Pasko lpasko@squamishchief.com ad sales Jennifer Gibson jgibson@squamishchief.com creative director / production John Magill www.viscodesign.com
6 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
All rights reserved, reproduction of any material contained in this publication is expressly forbidden without the prior consent of the publisher.
Photo by Nicolas Hesson
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 7 2015-04-08 4:14 PM
TOP
10
Things to Do in
SQUAMISH By STEVEN HILL
SEA TO SKY GONDOLA Squamish’s newest attraction ferries passengers on a 10-minute scenic ride to the Summit Lodge some 885 metres above sea level, offering stunning views of Howe Sound and the surrounding Coast Mountain ranges. The facility offers a restaurant and bar, large deck and a suspension bridge that takes you to hiking trails for all levels featuring jaw-dropping viewing platforms.
MOUNTAIN BIKING Squamish is famous for its mountain biking trails, and some of the best XC bike races take place on the area’s superb singletrack routes through ancient rainforest terrain. There’s a scenic trail for every level of rider… just grab a map from the Squamish Adventure Centre and start pedaling.
Photo: David Buzzard
ROCK CLIMBING Photo: David Buzzard
Climbers come from all over the globe to challenge their vertical skills on Squamish’s rock walls and boulders. Start small at some of the smaller routes in the Smoke Bluffs, or, if you’ve got experience and the nerve, face off against some of the more difficult climbs on the Stawamus Chief.
HIKING Hiking, wandering, exploring… whatever you want to call it, few places compare to Squamish when it comes to discovering nature. From gentle strolls through prehistoric-looking rainforest trails to meanders by the oceanfront or along a thriving and wildlife-filled estuary, Squamish is a haven for hikers.
Photo: File
DOWNTOWN SQUAMISH Photo: Christine Endicott
Explore downtown Squamish and discover a quaint and thoroughly West Coast town offering tons of options for dining, shopping and more. Browse an art gallery for a locally made masterpiece, shop for souvenirs or sample local fare and friendliness at the weekly Farmers’ Market. Don’t forget to try a tasty Squamish brew while you’re here, too, or some locally made chocolate.
Photo: File
Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 9
WATERSPORTS Located next to the ocean currents of the Howe Sound and surrounded by myriad pristine lakes and rivers, Squamish is an ideal location for a wide range of watersports from canoeing and kayaking, to standup paddleboarding, wind and kite surfing.
WILDLIFE WATCHING
Photo: Brian Aikens
Squamish is home to a wide array of birds, sea animals such as seals in Howe Sound, and the largest community of wintering bald eagles in North America. From November to January, visitors come from all over to experience these majestic raptors as they feast on salmon that have returned to spawn. For birdwatching year-round, hiking along the local trails, including the Squamish Estuary path, can lead to sightings of a variety of feathered creatures.
SHANNON FALLS
Photo: Brian Aikens
The third tallest falls in British Columbia, Shannon Falls is a popular picnicking spot and visitor attraction that’s not to be missed. Dropping from 335 metres (1,105 ft.) above its base, the falls is located at the top of a very short trail through old growth forest, but the park offers a picnic area, concession stand, plenty of parking, and access to a popular and steep 7 to 10 kilometre roundtrip hike up and over to the top of the Stawamus Chief.
Photo: Brian Aikens
HIKE THE STAWAMUS CHIEF You don’t have to be a rock climber with all the gear and nerves of steel to experience the amazing viewpoints on the Stawamus Chief. The local landmark features a range of challenging trails that let hikers make their way up to several incredible peaks with spectacular scenic vistas.
Photo: Christine Endicott
GOLF Fore! Tee up and challenge your skills on one of the Sea to Sky Corridor’s many golf courses. Experience long fairways and well manicured greens surrounded by old growth rainforest, and offering simply incomparable 360-degree vistas of snow-capped mountain peaks.
Photo: Shutterstock.com
10 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish 11 2015-04-08 3:47| PM
Where mountains & ocean meet the sky
S
By STEVEN HILL
QUAMISH has always enjoyed a reputation as a prime locale for outdoor adventures and activities, however the opening of the Sea to Sky Gondola in May 2014 set the eyes of the world on the community as an acclaimed and must-visit, tourist destination.
12 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
below: The Sea To Sky Gondola trails and Summit Lodge. Photos: David Buzzard
Soon after the $22 million project began ferrying sightseers and hikers to the Summit Lodge overlooking the Howe Sound and surrounding mountains, Squamish began appearing on lists of top vacation spots in various media like The New York Times and CNN. The new gondola and its unparallelled access to previously inaccessible backcountry and alpine terrain and hiking trails were cited as reasons to visit and discover Squamish now, more than ever.
“We’ve certainly gotten a lot of media coverage,” said Christy Allan, director of marketing and sales for the gondola. “It was a little unexpected, but it is flattering to know people really appreciate the experience.“ Located right off the beautiful Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) and right before the town of Squamish, the Sea to Sky Gondola lifts visitors 885 metres above sea level in floor-to-ceiling glass gondolas that are
Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 13
STRAIGHT UP Opened
above: Photos: David Buzzard
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unique in Canada. The 10-minute ride is an adventure in itself, offering sweeping views of Howe Sound and snow-capped mountain peaks, as well as the highway as it snakes along the ocean. Once at the top, hiking trails for all fitness levels abound, plus interpretive walks with high-exposure viewing platforms overlooking the stunning Stawamus Chief, mountain bike trails, a suspension bridge, unique First Nations history and mythology, and a whole lot more. The 9,000-square-foot Summit Lodge offers a menu of food options, plus a full-service bar, and arguably the best deck in North America, complete with outdoor fire pits and a simply spectacular and jaw-dropping view. But despite all the accolades and critical acclaim, the venue hasn’t been resting on “And that’s when they its laurels. It is continuously adding new trails, options discover everything else we and events to its mountaintop have to offer.” attraction. During the winter months, the gondola offered snowshoe trails and a new tube park, as well as Christmas concerts and performances, and gourmet winemaker dinners. The venue also hosts Easter and Mother’s Day brunches, a baby group, hiking groups and more. “We are going to continue to offer a variety of events throughout the spring and summer seasons,” said Allan. “We’ll be having different live performances during the summer on Friday nights, new winemaker dinners, trail races and of course, we will be doing Hikefest again this year.” The summer events feature free guided hikes for all levels, plus a trail running clinic, tons of children’s activities, backcountry safety workshops, nutrition information, wildlife displays and prize giveaways. “We’re always building on our success,” she said. But for Allan, the gondola’s success and recognition is also Squamish’s. “I remember the first time I looked out over Squamish from one of the viewing platforms,” she said. “I thought to myself as I saw how beautiful our town looked, ‘This is going to sell a lot of real estate.’ Because when people get up here and take a look at that view, they’re discovering Squamish… they’re seeing where the ocean and mountains meet the sky.” In a way, the Sea to Sky Gondola is a gateway to Squamish, she said. “Once they hike the trails, experience the view and see that different perspective on our town, then they want to head down to explore Squamish,” said Allan. “And that’s when they discover everything else we have to offer.” To discover more about the Sea to Sky Gondola, point your internet browser to www.seatoskygondola.com. •
14 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015 Shannon Fall - 15187 -2.indd 1
May 2014
2015-04-10 4:28 PM
Your Local Squamish Realtor
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andrew@squamishrealtor.ca When I moved to Squamish in 2003, I immediately fell in love with the town and it’s people. The Sea to Sky area represents everything I was looking for in a community. From it’s engaged population to it’s boundless activities, I decided I was here to stay. I took my experience as a Residential and Commercial Realtor in the Toronto Real Estate Market and shifted into real estate development. For the next 7 years I was responsible for the development of 37 new homes including the Arbourwoods Duplex community. I have also renovated and flipped properties giving me personal experience with the realities of the business, and a long list of friends in the trades who I can recommend. My current focus is on sharing my knowledge and the experiences I have gained with buyers, sellers, and developers who wish to make the most of their investments or simply find the best home for their families. I offer excellent local market knowledge with personal experience in project feasibility, design, rezoning, construction, and sales. This gives me a unique perspective on the Squamish Real Estate Market. Call me today for a no pressure consultation regarding your Commercial or Residential needs. Andrew Laurie - Realtor - Macdonald Realty Ltd. Squamish • 1.604.815.1961 • andrew@squamishrealtor.ca • www.squamishrealtor.ca • www.squamishcommercial.com
Star-studded Squamish Valley Music Festival a huge draw
By BEN LYPKA
I
T’S quickly become a summer must for music lovers from all over the world, and the 2015 edition of the Squamish Valley Music Festival continues that trend.
More than 70 bands take over the four stages of the Virgin Mobile Presents Squamish Valley Music Festival (SVMF) this summer, led by the star-studded trio of headliners, Mumford & Sons, Drake, and Sam Smith. Back for its sixth year, SVMF takes place at the Logger Sports Grounds and Centennial Fields in Squamish from Aug. 7 to 9. The festival boasts an eclectic roster of artists from all genres, including internationally renowned musicians, emerging local talent, and legendary electronic dance music (EDM) artists who will once again be featured in the Blueprint Arena. According to festival organizers, this wide range of music should make for an experience like no other. “We believe today’s festivalgoer is looking for diversity in the lineup but are also looking to discover new artists,” explains Erik Hoffman, Live Nation Canada senior vice-president of talent. “This year’s programming embodies this spirit. Artists accessible enough for all music fans but cutting edge enough for the most discernible music critic.” More than 105,000 music fans attended the festival last year, making it the largest outdoor music event in Western Canada. It generated an estimated economic impact of over $32 16 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
million over the four days of the festival. “The 2014 festival saw unprecedented growth and success across all areas, including security, transportation, camping and medical services – all with tremendous support from the Squamish community,” says Paul Runnals, executive producer of the festival and senior vicepresident of brand.LIVE. “We’re building off that momentum again this year with another incredible lineup, continued improvements being made to festival infrastructure and logistics based on feedback from our festivalgoers.” The three-day event is headlined by British rockers Mumford & Sons, Canadian hip-hop artist Drake and British crooner Sam Smith. Mumford & Sons release their third album Wilder Mind on May 4, on the heels of debut album Sigh No More in 2009 and Babel in 2012. The group has won two Grammy awards, four Billboard Music awards and two Brit awards and also headlined the Glastonbury Festival in 2013. Drake first hit the pop culture stage starring on the television show Degrassi: The Next Generation and launched his music career in 2006. Several mix tapes later, he signed with Young Wayne’s Young Money
entertainment and has dominated the charts ever since. He has sold more than 5 million albums worldwide and has won a Grammy, three Junos and six BET awards. His new album Views from the 6 will be released later this year.
The three-day event is headlined by British rockers Mumford & Sons, Canadian hip-hop artist Drake and British crooner Sam Smith.
Sam Smith has had a breakout 2015, and headlining SVMF only adds to the accolades he has earned. Smith won four Grammys at the 2015 edition of the show, picking up awards for Best New Artist, Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Pop Vocal. Smith rose to fame in 2012 and skyrocketed with the release of his 2014 album In The Lonely Hour. But it’s not just that trio that are taking over Squamish – other notable artists appearing at the SVMF include: rapper Schoolboy Q, Of Monsters And Men, EDM artist Kaskade, Alabama Shakes, SVMF favourites Mother Mother
and much more. Festival culture permeates all over town, with events and activities for music fans of all ages. Last year saw the third annual On the Street Festival take over Downtown Squamish with live music, late night shopping, pancake breakfasts, sidewalk sales and a kids’ zone. On the Farm Country Market is also rocking with outdoor shopping opportunities starting at 7 a.m. The Squamish Adventure Centre offered special prices on bicycle rentals to all festivalgoers and there were also discounts for the Sea to Sky Gondola. In short, it’s a weekend you don’t want to miss, and Squamish is again ready to get rocked this August. •
right: Clockwise, from top: Mumford & Sons, Drake, The Arkells, Sam Smith. Photos: Laura Ballance Media Group
Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 17
Squamish Farmers’ Market bustles with activity
Photo: Michael Kanka
By OLIVIA BEVAN
E
VERY Saturday during the summer, a small carpark on the downtown corner of Cleveland Avenue and Victoria Street is transformed into a bustling community hub – home to the Squamish Summer Farmers’ Market.
Starting on May 2 and running through to October 31, the summer farmers’ market in Squamish is a weekly opportunity for visitors and locals to enjoy all the best that B.C. has to offer, to chat with those who make or grow the products, and to stay a while and soak up the scene. You’ll find everything from farm-fresh vegetables to local chicken, eggs, honey and beef, as well as homemade bread, sweet treats, snacks and delicious hot food prepared on site. There are also incredible artisans creating a variety of beautiful work from unique jewelry to handmade soaps, candles and paintings of local landscapes. More than half the vendors are from Squamish, and the rest are from around B.C., with some coming as far afield as 100 Mile House and the Okanagan just to be part of Squamish for the day. 18 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
In addition to 62 market stalls, there’s also live music each week that will get your head bobbing and toes tapping, from funk and fiddle to Latin grooves and catchy children’s tunes that’ll have the little ones up on their feet. Local performers this year will include dancers, drummers and First Nations storytellers.
“What I hear consistently from people is that they really love the strong community feel of the market.” It’s a fun, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to stay for a while, explains market manager Carolyn Morris. “What I hear consistently from people
is that they really love the strong community feel of the market. It brings people together,” she says. “We really strive to become a come, shop and stay market. There’s no need to hurry out of there. Come and connect with the community, visit the community booth, see what’s going on. Talk to the vendors, talk to people who live in the community, and enjoy the performers that we have every week.” While enjoying your leisurely visit to the market, don’t miss the ‘What’s In’ booth which offers idea on how to transform the local produce in your basket into delicious dishes at home. “We theme it around produce that people are aware of and that they know is good for them, but maybe aren’t sure how to use,” says Morris. “Typically like Swiss chard or sunchokes, which are really exiting but people always
ask ‘What do you do with them?’ It’s really hands-on and both kids and adult-friendly.” For even more food inspiration, keep an eye out for the ‘Chef to Market’ booth happening intermittently throughout the summer, where local chefs demonstrate how to prepare delicious dishes from produce available at the market that day. Many other events will be taking place throughout the summer at the market, including Farmer Appreciation Day, when local producers receive an extra bit of love for their dedication and hard work. So whether you’re just out for the atmosphere, stocking up your larder or looking for a special gift, you’ll find what you need (and more) at Squamish Farmers’ Market, open each Saturday starting May 2 until October 31 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. •
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Immerse yourself in First Nations culture & heritage
By STEVEN HILL
L
ONG before there was a bustling outdoor tourist destination, acclaimed gondola or even a scenic mountain highway, the entire Sea to Sky region was the traditional territory and home for indigenous Coast Salish villages and settlements.
20 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
Since before recorded history, the Aboriginal people hunted, fished, held sacred ceremonies and acted as stewards, honouring the lands of their ancestors for untold generations. Their complex history can be traced through ancient connections within their shared language, through terms for place names and ceremony among the Salmon Peoples of the cedar longhouse. On July 23, 1923 through the “Prayer of Amalgamation,” the modern era of the Squamish Nation began, when 16 chiefs signed an agreement to form one Nation, with each chief having a seat at the council table. After decades, the hereditary system for the band council changed into an elected council, which still symbolically has 16 seats.
The Skwxwú7mesh stelmexw (or Squamish People) continue to live in the area now known as British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, where their rich culture has continued to thrive and influence the region’s politics, and they’ve become leaders in the field of First Nations economic development.
“Everyone knows the Stawamus Chief… But for the Squamish Nation that is a longhouse, filled with all the animals.”
“Today, there are approximately 4,000 members of our Nation,”
says Ian Campbell, a hereditary chief and member of the band’s council. “We are spread out in communities from Squamish to North Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, but we are part of a larger language family called the Coast Salish, and our language can be found throughout Oregon and Washington states and over to Vancouver Island.” That language can also be seen on the road signs situated along the Sea to Sky Highway, giving traditional Squamish names alongside the more recognizable and modern monikers of locations and towns. “We are always working to create a stronger visible presence,” says Campbell. “And that includes the signage along the Sea to Sky in our native Squamish
language. It’s one more step towards inspiring people to learn more about the history of the Squamish Nation, our lands and our mythology.” He says the Squamish area was a prime location to experience that Aboriginal mythology.
from taxation, leases and Squamish-owned businesses. A few examples of tenants on Squamish Nation lands are the Park Royal Shopping Centre and the International Plaza. There are also plans to develop various parcels of lands, including
according to Campbell. “There are many places to learn about our culture, including Totem Hall in Squamish, where we often hold events like powwows,” he says. “Visitors can also travel up to Whistler and go to the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural
“Everyone knows the Stawamus Chief,” he says. “But for the Squamish Nation that is a longhouse, filled with all the animals. And we also have a flood story in our mythology, just like many others, but for us, it was the peak of Mt. Garibaldi that was our safe haven. There are stories written throughout the land.” The Squamish Nation’s own story continues to be written as well, and it has been developing a variety of sources of revenue
proposed developments at Seymour, Capilano, Kitsilano, Chekwelp and Stawamus, with proceeds going to support ongoing programs and services for Squamish Nation membership, as well as acquire new lands, provide infrastructure, and provide finance options for member housing. But you don’t have to be a member of the Nation to experience and appreciate their rich and time-honoured culture,
Centre, which is a great place to find out more about the area’s Aboriginal history.” Campbell says they were also exploring the online realm and smartphone app technology as a way to further inspire curiosity about Squamish Nation tradition and history, and usher ancient ways into a modern world. For more information on the Squamish Nation, go to www. squamish.net. •
left: Powwow in Squamish. Photo: Nicolas Hesson. right: Welcome pole at Totem Hall. Photo: Michael Lonergan.
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 21
2015-04-08 2:57 PM
Squamish’s young arts & culture scene
By STEVEN HILL
S
QUAMISH has a well earned reputation as a destination that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and recreation galore in Mother Nature’s back yard.
above: Squamish artist Chili Thom. Photo: Rebecca Aldous 22 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
And while that is certainly true that the area is known for its stunning scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, Michelle Neilson thinks people are still missing Squamish’s true nature. “As far as I am concerned, Squamish is an arts community,” says the vice-chair of the Squamish Arts Council. “The arts scene here is so diverse, and you can find every spectrum of the arts here in town.” The arts community is so diverse, in fact, that there was a need for an organization like the arts council, which acts as an umbrella organization to help coordinate the scene.
Squamish continues this year as one of five Vancouver-area communities serving as venues for Vancouver Biennale, a two-year initiative celebrating art in public spaces. World-renowned artists like Brazil’s Vik Muniz have been in town creating outdoor art on a grand scale, and up-and-coming “artists in residence” have been taking part in a variety of public events celebrating creativity in all its forms.
“It’s becoming a young, progressive and edgy community.”
But it isn’t just world famous artists creating in Squamish. If you wander the downtown area, you’ll find a variety of shops and galleries that serve as showcases for the area’s talented and unique First Nations carvers, basket weavers, drum makers and others. And Squamish venues like the Brackendale Art Gallery and Foyer Gallery regularly feature exhibits from local painters, carvers, jewelry makers and more. The weekly Squamish Farmers’ Market downtown is also a great place to find unique and beautiful works by local artists and artisans of all types. “It’s becoming a young, progressive and edgy community,” says Neilson.
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish 23 2015-04-08 2:58| PM
left: Brackendale Art Gallery owner Thor Froslev relaxes in his apartment at the gallery. Photo: David Buzzard
“We want to have a role in this conversation, so we are kick starting it now with the hopes of pulling together a wide range of stakeholders in our community to help define the vision.”
And you’ll find more than just painters and carvers in Squamish. The town boasts an active writers’ group, talented photographers, dance schools and academies, plus a busy theatre community that presents acclaimed plays as well as holiday favourites throughout the year to appreciative audiences. Music lovers will also know that Squamish has become a big name in the outdoor festival circuit, hosting the Squamish 24 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
Valley Music Festival every year, and drawing tens of thousands of campers and concert goers to see the likes of Eminem, Bruno Mars, Macklemore, Queens of the Stone Age, The Roots, Walk Off the Earth and more. This year’s edition of the multi-day music fest (Aug. 7, 8 and 9) features Mumford and Sons, Drake and Sam Smith headlining a jam-packed roster of acts. But you can still find live music almost every night at a Squamish
bar, pub, café or lounge, where local talent play everything from blues and rock, to classical, opera, punk and metal. There’s also the occasional big name acts that take the stage at the Brackendale Art gallery or Eagle Eye Theatre, and if you haven’t tapped into your own musical potential Squamish offers a plethora of music academies, tutors and community groups that are just waiting to help you learn that instrument or find your singing voice.
But there’s still so much more to be done to bolster Squamish’s arts and culture scene, says Neilson. “The arts council is working on spearheading a task force that will kick start community engagement and strategic planning around the development and design of an arts centre for Squamish,” she says. “The District of Squamish has an arts centre of some kind in the oceanfront development plan. We want to have a role in this conversation, so we are kick starting it now with the hopes of pulling together a wide range of stakeholders in our community to help define the vision.” For Neilson, it’s one more step toward showing the world the art and culture of Squamish. •
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish 25 2015-04-10 9:08| AM
Old-time festival fun in Brackendale
The Brackendale Fall Fair features fun for the whole family. Photos: Ben Lypka, Steven Hill, Nicolas Hesson
By STEVEN HILL
D
ESPITE rapid growth and myriad international accolades it has received as a prime tourism destination, Squamish still manages to maintain a small-town appeal with a strong sense of community.
Every year, residents come together to celebrate that neighbourly feeling at The Brackendale Fall Fair, an old-time festival featuring a plethora of activities, exhibitions, performances, crafts and food for the whole family. You’ll find dozens of local artisans and artists selling everything from handmade jewelry and clothing, to paintings, sweets, carvings and more. “This year we have more than 80 vendors,” said Thor Froslev of the Brackendale Farmers’ Institute, the local organization behind the fair. “Many have told me that this is the biggest event for them all year.” The fair also features a petting zoo with farm animals, minigolf course for amateur putters, hayrides on an old tractor through the forest trails, face painting, 26 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
and live music all day long. “The zucchini races are also very popular,” said Froslev. “Kids really love making their own car out of zucchini and racing them on the track. It seems to get more popular every year.”
“The zucchini races are… very popular.” There’s also an exhibition tent showcasing award-winning pickles, vegetables, chickens, rabbits and even Lego creations. Local community groups are always on hand as well, raising awareness about Squamish activities and events, and how residents can help with the environment or live harmoniously with area wildlife. But The Brackendale Fall Fair
isn’t all just cotton candy, yummy kettlecorn and fuzzy critters. It’s also an event aimed at protecting the land upon which it takes place annually. Now in its 21st year, The Brackendale Fall Fair was originally held at a local farm until that land was sold and a new venue had to be found. “When they sold the farm, we were looking for a new place for the fall fair, and the thought at the time was that there was some land in Brackendale that had been deeded to our organization,” said Froslev. “So, we went in and took down some trees in a couple of acres, and left the rest as a forested park with trails for the community to use.” Unfortunately, the 50-acre parcel – now known as the Brackendale Farmers Institute Park – was later deemed to be
Crown land, according to Froslev. “So, now we have been fighting ever since to get that land park status,” he said. “The fall fair helps fund that fight.” The battle to protect the pristine land is more than just about keeping a place for the fall fair, Froslev said. “It’s important to have a nature park like that,” he said. “In Brackendale there is no other park larger than an acre. It’s important, because people need green spaces where they can walk their dogs, or relax at the end of the day. Like the fair itself, it brings togetherness in Brackendale, and all of the Squamish community.” This year’s Brackendale Fall Fair takes place September 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, go to brackendalefallfair.ca. •
Squamish Wind Festival celebrates wind, water & creative spirit
By STEVEN HILL
S
QUAMISH is truly a place where dreams can become incredible realities.
28 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
It’s a place where a simple desire jotted down on a whiteboard can galvanize different parts of the community and bring them together to create Squamish’s newest signature event. “The Squamish Wind Festival came about from an annual general meeting we had two years ago,” says Michelle Neilson, vice-chair of the Squamish Arts Council. “We were brainstorming ideas, and we had what we called a ‘bluesky board’ where people could write down whatever ideas they had. Anything goes. What if?” Neilson says one person wrote “This town needs a wind festival”
– and the rest is now history. Partnering with the Squamish Yacht Club, the arts council proceeded to recruit artists and athletes alike from the community to merge arts, culture, wind and watersports into one three-day, free celebration.
“We were brainstorming ideas… Anything goes. What if?”
Centred around the yacht club’s Squamish Open Annual Regatta (SOAR), the inaugural
Wind Festival in 2014 featured wind and water-themed art exhibitions, live music, sports demos, vendors and a beer garden, kids’ area, gear swap and much more. “It was amazing,” says Neilson. “And we did it with no money and no resources. The community just came together. And we had about 3,000 people come through the festival throughout the weekend. For our second year, we hope to double that.” After the inaugural fest was over, the arts council went to the community to see how the event could be improved upon and be “bigger and better” than ever, according to Neilson.
left: Photo: Nicolas Hesson below: Photo: Ben Lypka
“The feedback was resoundingly positive,” she says, “because really, at its core, it is a celebration of so many things that make Squamish such a desirable place – wind and water sports, arts and culture.” The 2015 Squamish Wind Festival takes place July 24 to 26, and Neilson says the new program should appeal to everyone. “In addition to the 36th annual SOAR, we have kiteboarding demos, and people have the opportunity to try out a variety of different water sports like canoeing, kayaking and standup paddleboarding,” she says. “And on the Sunday we have kite flying, which I highly recommend.” These aren’t your typical kiddie kites but the big boys used by kiteboarders to pull them along the ocean currents and undulating waves. Neilson attended last year’s demo and really enjoyed it. “Afterwards, I bought one,” she confessed. “It’s just so much fun to spin and twirl in the wind.” If flying kites isn’t your thing, the event will also feature local vendors and the popular beer garden, as well as an arts show
by Visuals, the Squamish Valley Artists Society. The outdoor art exhibition and artisan market features new works by local artists and artisans from throughout the Squamish area. “We also will have a kids’ zone that we call the Fairy Forest with actors dressed like pirates and fairies, buskers and more.” Friday and Saturday nights also feature live concerts under the stars at O’Siyam Pavillion Park. “On Friday evening we are also very fortunate to have the Squamish Academy of Music bringing their annual Broadway or Bust musical into the event,” says Neilson. “They will be performing Peter Pan, and we’re really excited for the show.” There’s also a Summit Deck Concert at the Sea to Sky Gondola, a water wall mural by artist Stan Matwychuk, marching bands, and even a movie in the park on Saturday to close out the evening before Sunday’s final activities. “When the person wrote, ‘This town needs a wind festival,’ it seemed pretty obvious,” Neilson says. “And all aspects, all corners of the community just came together for this one collective party. It’s really quite amazing.” • Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 29 Wind festival - 15181.indd 1
2015-04-08 3:13 PM
Sports Events in
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SQUAMISH By STEVEN HILL
WIND FESTIVAL
TEST OF METAL
The Wind Festival is one of Squamish’s newest events and celebrates the area’s wind and water sports through art, music, theatre and craft. The three-day free event features a gear swap, art shows, live music exciting wind and water exhibitions and races, and much more. July 24 to 26, 2015.
Canada’s most famous XC bike race features a grueling a 67-kilometre course with more than 1,200 meters of climbing and 35 kilometres of single-track. More than 800 dedicated pro and amateur athletes compete in the event, which also offers a mini-Metal for the kids, plus the CrossFit Squamish Strength in Stone competition, along with the many vendors, food and beer garden. June 20, 2015.
Photo: Brian Aikens
GRANFONDO
Photo: Ben Lypka
An epic bike ride through the Sea to Sky Corridor that starts in Vancouver and ends in Whistler, riders can choose to ride the full 122 kilometres or participate in the 55-kilometre MedioFondo starting in Squamish and ending in Whistler. Squamish is also where you’ll find the GranFondo Marketplace and Fan Zone, an outdoor market created to offer activities to the Squamish community during the cycling event that features more than 25 local vendors. September 12, 2015.
LOGGERS SPORTS FESTIVAL
Photo: Ben Lypka
Squamish fills the B.C. Day long weekend with a celebration of its logging history. Squamish Days Loggers Sports is North America’s premier loggers sports event, with competitors and spectators coming from all over the world to watch axe throwing, logrolling, tree climbing and more. The event also offers free and family friendly community events including a dance, children’s activities, a parade, wacky bed races, a 10-kilometre run and pancake breakfast. July 30 to August 3, 2015.
LOOP THE LAKES TRAIL RACE
SQUAMISH MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
A long-running event through the classic trails in Squamish, Loop The Lakes is designed to cater to runners of all levels. The family-friendly event starts at Alice Lake features three distances to choose from (8 kilometres, 15 kilometres and 21 kilometres) and a free 1.5-kilometre kids race around the lake. May 23, 2015
A celebration of the area’s climbing, bouldering and mountain culture, the Squamish Mountain Festival features instructional climbing clinics, films, a photo contest, trail days, parties and tons of gravity-defying action. July 15 to 18, 2015.
30 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
Photo: Ben Lypka
Photo: Steven Hill
Photo: Ben Lypka
SOAR
SQUAMISH TRIATHLON
The annual Squamish Open Annual Regatta (SOAR) is a three-day event that draws racers from all over to enjoy a weekend of sailing and camaraderie on the open waters of Howe Sound. July 24 to 26, 2015.
Photo: File
The annual Squamish Triathlon offers competitors the chance to swim, bike and run in both Sprint and Olympic distance races. The swim (1.5 kilometres or 750 metres) takes place at Alice Lake, while the scenic bike ride (37 kilometres or 18.5 kilometres) circles Don Ross Secondary School and the trail run (10 kilometres or 5 kilometres) is inside the bike route. July 12, 2015.
Photo: Ben Lypka
ORECRUSHER
GEARJAMMER
The Orecrusher XC is a multi-lap classic cross-country mountain bike race through the Cheekeye Fan single-track trails of Brackendale. Part of the Test of Metal series of races, Orecrusher is the first race of the year, featuring mostly flat and false flat rolly terrain that’s perfect for all levels of rider. May 9, 2015.
Another race in the Test of Metal series, Gearjammer is a 52-kilometre point-to-point cross-country mountain bike race that starts near Alice Lake (five kilometres north of Squamish) and finishes in Rose Park near downtown Squamish. The mostly single-track course comprises some of the most challenging cross-country single-track in the area. July 18, 2015.
Photo: Ben Lypka
Photo: Ben Lypka
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish 31 2015-04-08 2:53| PM
Squamish: A hiking heaven By STEVEN HILL
N
ESTLED in a valley and surrounded by pristine, old-growth and ancient rainforests filled with alpine meadows, crystal clear lakes and meandering rivers, Squamish offers a wide range of hiking options for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
32 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
From easy and low-impact walks along scenic forested trails to hardcore hikes into the backcountry to experience Mother Nature’s backyard in all its untouched glory, few destinations can even compare. And with the opening of the Sea to Sky Gondola last year, allowing easy access to previously hardto-access terrain, Squamish can truly be called a hiker’s heaven. “For the trails up at the Sea to Sky Gondola, I’d definitely recommend the Panorama Trail,” said Stephane Perron, an avid hiker and president of the Squamish Trails Society, a group of local advocates and advisors who work on community and neighbourhood trail connections, maintenance and quality. “It really is a must-do for anyone visiting Squamish. People just rave about it.” The 1.6-kilometre loop trail takes you on a scenic journey
through coastal forest, Alaskan Blueberry bushes and granite outcroppings. “And the lookout and Stawamus Chief viewing platform found on the trail just blows everyone away,” he said. “It’s a very easy trail, too.”
“… the lookout and Stawamus Chief viewing platform found on the trail just blows everyone away.”
For intermediate hikers, Perron said Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail is another favourite route more people can enjoy, thanks to the gondola. “It offers some beautiful granite features, as well as
waterfalls, old-growth forest and some amazing views of the Howe Sound,” he said, adding the halfday excursion was worth the time and effort. Back down in the valley, Perron recommended the Four Lakes Trail found at Alice Lake, just five minutes north of Squamish. “It’s a relatively easy hike that just requires a bit of stamina,” he said. “But you get to see four different lakes and pass by a river. It’s a very popular hike and you can even go for a swim along the way.” The six-kilometre trail takes you through Douglas fir, western red cedar and other coniferous and deciduous trees, and you’re likely to spot a variety of birds and local wildlife along the way. “The High Falls Trail is another great hike, but it isn’t as well known,” said Perron. “It is located along the Squamish Valley Road, just a few 100
metres after the Hydro station. I took an old timer out there once who had explored all the trails in Squamish, but he didn’t know about the High Falls Trail and he was amazed. Of course it is an advanced to intermediate trail as you will be walking along the edge of a deep canyon.” Advanced hikers will also like the Echo Lake Trail, but Perron warned the journey takes a bit of preparation. “The trail is located on the other side of the estuary,” he said. “So that takes a bit of organization to get across the Squamish River. You’ll need to know your way around a canoe or kayak. But you’ll get to see spectacular waterfalls, and you’ll come across the biggest trees I’ve ever seen
in Squamish, before getting to a beautiful lake.” Of course, the climb up the Stawamus Chief is also high on Perron’s list of must-do hikes in Squamish. “The Chief is a must,” he said. “Everyone has to get to the First Peak and take in that view. I took my sister up when she first moved here… it was her first hike in B.C. She said she felt like a real B.C. resident now that she’d hiked the Chief.” You’ll find information, trail maps, advice and guided tours of these and many other area hiking opportunities at the Squamish Adventure Centre. •
left: Stawamus Chief, first peak. Photo: Sarah Murrel. right: Moss hooks. Photo: Brian Aikens.
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Summer 2015 Discover Squamish 33 2015-04-10 10:58| AM
Squamish offers tantalizing web of mountain bike trails By KELLY SERVINSKI
D
ECIDING which mountain bike trails to ride on a day out in Squamish can sometimes be just as challenging as choosing what to eat at your favourite local restaurant. All the options are tempting and there is plenty of variety, but in the end, no doubt you will pick something that fits your mood at the time. You can stick with your go-to favourite but it’s just as rewarding to take a chance and try something new.
Thankfully there are plenty of trails on the menu here, so no rider should go home at the end of the day without the satisfaction of a day of fun. One of the many things that makes Squamish special is that it has many different types of terrain, all of which are easily accessible from anywhere in town. Perhaps nowhere in B.C. or the world for that matter has all the bases covered so well in terms of possessing so many different types of trails to satisfy the appetites of riders as does 34 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
Squamish. You can start by picking up a trails map at the Squamish Adventure Centre on Highway 99. Breaking down the vast trail network into different zones, each with their own flavour, can help visitors make the decision on what to ride that much easier and the Squamish experience that much more rewarding. Maybe what you’re after is to head up above Quest University for some flowy trails packed with berms and jumps like the ones found on Half Nelson and
Pseudo-tsuga? One of the great things about riding in this zone is that you can do a series of loops by climbing back up and choosing a different descent each time. Recycle and Angry Midget are also right there for the taking, so by pedaling back up you can spend a few hours in the same area but ride a number of different trails. If those types of trails are not your thing or you’ve done them enough times and are craving something new, then perhaps head over to the Alice Lake area
for some less groomed trails such as Credit Line and Entrails. Expect steeper more technical terrain full of rocks, roots and creative lines. If you’ve cleaned these two classic trails and want even more of a challenge then the double black diamond jewels of Value Added and Mark My Word are calling your name. Again you’re staying in a relatively small area but have plenty of options.
One of the great things about riding in this zone is that you can do a series of loops by climbing back up and choosing a different descent each time. Haven’t ridden Cheshire Cat yet? It possesses a good mix of terrain and one can stop by Cat Lake for a dip on a hot day and take in the views. A great way to ride up there is to avoid climbing up on Highway 99 and to search
far left: Photo: Brian Aikens left: Tantalus Bike Shop. Photo: Katie Gerstle
out the Alder Trail and Bridge Trail, which spit you out near Brohm Lake. Then take a short ride down to the entrance of Cat Lake (after a safe crossing of the highway, of course) to make the final climb up to the trailhead. This makes for a great off road connection to Cheshire Cat from the Cheekeye Fan area trails. It’s worth the pedal up as you can easily link up to the Wonderland trail or back up towards Alice Lake after finishing ‘the Cat. The Valleycliffe area is the
place to be if you want to go for a ride and have the trails almost entirely to yourself. The forest is lush and the trails have their own character made up of good old fashioned rocky and rooty terrain. The Meet Your Maker trail is worth searching out with the reward of a great descent after a stiff climb up to reach it. Try finishing with the Summer’s Eve trail on a sunny day with its majestic views of the Stawamus Chief and Howe Sound. No matter which area of the
trail network you choose to ride, you can easily link up more than one of them if a longer day in the saddle is in the cards. Stop into one of the local bike shops in town and ask some locals to tell you about their favourite trails and how best to put together a good ride for the day. To keep up with all that’s going on in Squamish mountain bike-wise, check out the SORCA website at www.sorca.ca. Happy trails! •
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The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 35
Things to Do With Kids in
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SQUAMISH By STEVEN HILL
SQUAMISH ADVENTURE CENTRE
WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK
Enjoy delicious drinks and treats from Caffè Garibaldi, learn about the area or book a tour at the Visitor Information Centre, watch a movie in the 45-seat theatre, shop local for a memorable souvenir at the Squamish Store, or have a play date at the children’s play area. And if you’ve just arrived, it’s a great place to start your discovery of Squamish.
The West Coast Railway Heritage Park is a living museum representing a typical railway facility of the mid20th century, providing visitors with the opportunity to tour authentic railway equipment in various stages of restoration. Home of the Royal Hudson steam locomotive, as well as Western Canada’s largest collection of Heritage Railway Equipment, the park also features a three-kilometre miniature railway ride and tour around the park.
Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: David Buzzard
Photo: David Buzzard
HORSEBACK RIDING
MINI-GOLF
Giddyup! Take the kids on a memorable ride through ancient rainforest on gentle and well-trained horses. Let a knowledgeable and friendly local guide show you secret trails along pristine rivers and through Paradise or the Squamish valleys, while sharing local lore and legends. You may even get to see some of the area’s wildlife on your ride, so don’t forget to bring a camera.
Everybody loves mini-golf! Squamish’s Whistler Punk Hollow offers families a challenging multi-level mini golf course featuring waterfalls, extensive landscaping and a logging theme that tells the cartoonish story of Whistler Punk. It’s fun for both young and old.
ALICE LAKE Just north of Squamish you’ll find Alice Lake, a pristine jewel of a lake with astounding views of snow-capped mountain peaks, and options for the whole family. There are two different beaches and swimming areas, a full service campground and snack bar, as well as tons of hiking and mountain bike trails, plus canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals.
36 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
Photo: Shutterstock
BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM
Photo: Darren Roberts
An award-winning national historic site 12 kilometres south of Squamish, the Britannia Mine Museum former copper mine that at one time was the largest of its kind in the British Empire. Visitors can discover the mine on an underground train tour, pan for gold or freely explore the museum pieces and facilities that share this fascinating story.
Photo: David Buzzard
BRENNAN PARK RECREATION CENTRE A true community hub, the Brennan Park Recreation Centre offers a first-class ice rink and aquatic centre featuring both regular and children’s pools, whirlpool, steam room and exercise equipment. The facility also boasts many outdoor playing fields, tennis courts and turf field, plus Brennan Park also offers swimming lessons, programs and special events for the whole family.
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DAY OUT WITH THOMAS All aboard! Spend the day with everyone’s favourite cartoon tank engine, during the annual Day Out with Thomas event. Every year, Thomas chugs into the West Coast Railway Heritage Park with his friends for a day of Thomasthemed experiences including live performances, photos with Sir Topham Hatt, mini-train rides and a trip on Thomas himself.
Photo: Ben Lypka
DINO TRAIN Based on the popular PBS Kids Television series, Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train rolls into Squamish every year, letting fans meet their favourite T-rex, Buddy, and go on an adventure-filled train ride with music, stories, Nature Trackers Club guidebook and activities area featuring fossil dig sites, dinosaur tracking, temporary tattoos, arts and crafts and much more.
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Photo: Ben Lypka
2015-04-08 2:54 PM
Recreation Services District of Squamish Brennan Park Recreation Centre
NATURE WALK AND PICNIC
Photo: Darren Roberts
Kal Tire 1117 Industrial Way Squamish, BC 604.892.1070
Head out on one of Squamish’s many trails and explore ancient rainforest and Mother Nature’s backyard. Dip your toes in a frigid, mountain-fed stream and discover the true natural beauty of the area. Cap off your walk with a stop at one of Squamish’s many parks for a relaxing picnic as you soak in 360-degree views of the surrounding Coast Mountain range.
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Squamish Seniors’ Centre
1201 Village Green Way 604.848.6898
mountain bike skills park | aquatic centre | sports fields | bmx track | ice arena | outdoor gym | bike wash & repair station | children’s playground | tennis courts | lawn bowling green squamish.ca/recreation Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 37
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2015-04-08 4:11 PM
Squamish restaurants tantalize tastebuds with variety
I
By OLIVIA BEVAN
N Squamish we play hard and eat well, and in both we’re spoiled for choice. Here are some options that might help you narrow it down.
Mag’s 99. Photo: David Buzzard
THE CRABAPPLE CAFÉ is Brackendale’s newest eatery. Owner Tim Lane changed his diet completely after watching the documentary Forks Over Knives, and saw such positive results he felt inspired to share great food with others. The Crabapple serves healthy, delicious food including gluten free, vegan and non-vegetarian food. Most popular dishes include the pastrami hash and the Thai curry. Prices range from $4.95 for soup, to between $12 and $18 for mains. Open Monday and Tuesday 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Wednesday to Sunday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Children welcome. As a regular fueling-up spot for outdoor enthusiasts, when the sun is out, you can be sure MAG’S 99 FRIED CHICKEN AND MEXICAN CANTINA will be busy. It’s a lively, colourful, locallyowned, fast-food option that boasts fresh ingredients, free-run chicken and a chef/ manager who’s worked in hotels and finedining restaurants all over the world. With daily specials and selective spice levels there’s something for everyone, open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Just four minutes from the highway, tucked away in the trees is FERGIE’S CAFÉ. Chef Tom Giblin has been running the kitchen since the summer and hails from the fine-dining world of Araxi and Alta Bistro. Big on working with local farmers, their eggs benny (which uses local eggs) is so popular that, on a busy days, they can do 160
38 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
servings. Their housesmoked salmon is also a dish not to be missed. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. (weekdays) and 3 p.m. (weekends). THE SEA TO SKY GONDOLA takes eating to great heights. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and views of the Howe Sound, visitors can enjoy food and drink at the Summit Lodge, picnics on the Plaza, astounding views from the patio, or more formal meals in the restaurant. There’s also the Basecamp Café for fueling up before (or after) your journey. For opening hours visit www. seatoskygondola.com. Brandy Willmot, coowner of Brackendale’s WATERSHED BAR AND GRILL, started there as a server five years ago and never tires of the beautiful river view. It’s a familyfriendly setting, known for its patio and its burgers and is a great spot for eagle watching. Prices start at $6.99 for soup and around $15 for mains. Children are welcome and have their own menu. Open Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to midnight, and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to midnight. ZEPHYR CAFÉ, known for its quick, healthy food, opened in 2008 after the two owners met unexpectedly
Fergie’s Café. Photo: David Buzzard
Brandy Willmot, Watershed Grill. Photo: Olivia Bevan
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Zephyr Café.
The Howe Sound Inn and Brewing Company. Photo: David Buzzard
in Costa Rica and designed the concept while in a hot tub. They offer a large selection of homemade goodies from cookies to veggie burgers, raw food and wraps, as well as local tea and coffee, and delicious smoothies. Their healthy quinoa bowl is a huge hit, and they’ll make anything glutenfree or vegan if you ask. There’s seating for 26 inside, plus tables outside, and an extra 12 when their summer patio opens in May. Open seven days a week 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and until 9 p.m. in summer. With a new chef, a new menu and some of the best views in Squamish, it’s hard not to fall for the LIVING ROOM RESTAURANT, which includes a lounge and fireplace patio. Open for lunch and dinner, and for breakfast on the weekends, the food is contemporary and many ingredients are organic. Popular dishes include the venison pot pie and the pork loin. Average lunch prices are around $15, and around $25 for dinner. Open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends. THE HOWE SOUND INN AND BREWING COMPANY was established in 1996 and ranks among the top 10 craft breweries in B.C. (and there are over 100). Described as a Pacific North West gastro pub their dishes use many regional ingredients and often their own beer. Pizzas are really popular,
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The Nest.
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as are their signature dishes such as the cheddar and ale soup, pot pies and their fresh sheet of local seafood. Prices are around $12 to $17 and they also do take out and host regular live music. Open Monday to Thursday 11 a.m. to midnight; Friday 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.; and Sunday 8 a.m. to midnight. At Brackendale’s THE NEST, Eliza Carter worked as a server there for eight years and always dreamed of owning it. She now does. Known for pizzas, her restaurant makes all its crusts in-house including gluten-free options. It also offers burgers, salads and international dishes, and features prime rib night on the last Saturday of each month. Children are welcome and even have their own menu. Prices range from $8 to $20 and you can order takeout online. The Nest also has regular live music and will be hosting Brackendale Live every night during the Squamish Valley Music Festival. Open Monday to Thursday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday to Sunday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. THE TIMBERWOLF RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE is a family-friendly eatery that’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and it serves a variety of Canadian, Mediterranean, Chinese and Greek food. Breakfast prices start at $4.99, lunch at $5.95 and appetizers at $6.95, though it’s best to budget an average of $17 per person. Popular dishes include the New York steak and the Timberwolf burger, though others are featured on special evenings including prime rib night on Wednesdays; pizza night on Thursdays; barbecue pork rib on Fridays; and Greek night on
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Sundays. Open Monday and Tuesday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Wednesday to Sunday 7a.m. to 9 p.m. PIZZALICIOUS is an independent pizzeria on Cleveland Avenue offering pizza, pasta and a range of Indian food. Everything is made in-house using all natural ingredients, B.C. free-range chicken and many local vegetables. They offer pizza by the slice for $2; lunch for around $6 to $9; and dinner for around $14 to $17. Popular dishes include the butter chicken pizza and their Indian-style veggie pizza containing ginger, cilantro, onion, mushroom, black olives, green pepper and pineapple. Open Monday to Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to midnight, and Saturday to Sunday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Squamish also has many other great pizza options, including PANAGO, PIZZA BOSS, LITTLE CAESARS, BOSTON PIZZA and PIZZA HUT. SUSHI GOEMON is owned by
Pizzalicious.
husband and wife Nobuyuki and Junko Otomo, who started the restaurant together ten years ago. At first Junko worked with her daughter, but business was so good that she persuaded her husband to leave his job in the city to join them. Popular right now is their new Goemon House Roll with barbecue eel, tamago, lettuce, tempura, cucumber, and teriyaki sauce. You can also order bento boxes, donburi, noodles, sashimi, rolls, cones and Nigiri sushi. Prices range from $1.25 for miso soup to $14 for assorted sashimi, plus more for party trays. Open Monday to Friday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday noon to 7p.m. Other popular sushi restaurants in Squamish include KOZO CAFÉ, SAMURAI SUSHI and the awardwinning SUSHI SEN, which offers specialties such as lobster roll, fresh sashimi and karaage, in addition to a daily specials sheet. CHEF BIG D’S is a great spot for a no-nonsense, fill-you-up, delicious
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Spice Root.
breakfast, brunch or lunch, and recently rose to fame when hosting the CBC Radio’s Early Edition. With specials that change regularly, and ever-popular favourites such as pancakes and eggs benny, there’s plenty for everyone. Families are welcome and high chairs are available for little ones. Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. THE LOTUS GARDENS received a facelift recently by new owners and hosted the first annual Chinese New Year celebrations. Their menu has a huge variety from chow mein to chop suey and combination dinners for up to eight people. Prices vary, but an average dish is around $10. They also offer dine-in, takeout and delivery. Open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday noon to 9:30 p.m; and Sunday 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Other Chinese restaurants in town include the family-owned DRAGON TERRACE and FORTUNE KITCHEN. For something a little exotic, try the SPICE ROOT, Squamish’s Thai fusion restaurant. Everything is prepared in-house and their specialties include pad Thai, pork banh mi, drunken noodles and fire fries. They also serve fabulous cocktails made with fresh ingredients, including lemongrass and chili martini, pineapple ginger mojito, and cucumber sake martini, as well as mocktails, all of which can be enjoyed in the dining room and lounge. Average price is around $17.50 per person. Open Monday to Saturday 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For authentic Indian food, BISLA SWEETS is an unassuming, hidden gem. Known for its delicious food, budget-friendly menu and great service, it’s a small restaurant where visitors can choose to eat in or take out. Their samosas receive rave reviews, and each day they feature both a meat and vegetarian special. They also have a great selection of handmade Indian sweets and a meat counter selling goat, chicken, fish and lamb. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. ESSENCE OF INDIA is also a great spot for Indian food and offers many specialties including Chef Don’s very own personal favourites, tandoori
42 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
ribs and wild salmon masala. They also serve local wine and beer, and offer take-out, delivery and catering options in addition to dining in. Dishes are made mild but if you like things spicier, just ask. Open Monday and Wednesday 4:40 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Thursday to Sunday noon to 9:30 p.m. For a truly British experience, a plate of fish and chips at WIGAN PIER is essential. They also take great pride in their pies, and diners can choose to eat in or take out, as well as select various items from the freezer to take home. Open Sunday to Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. PEPE AND GRINGOS is known for serving up some of the best steak and seafood in town as well as mouthwatering Mexican fare. The restaurant provides gluten-free options, a kids’ menu and a warm atmosphere. Open every day 5 to 10 p.m.; and Friday, Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy stunning views of the Stawamus Chief while dining on the patio at MATCH EATERY AND PUBLIC HOUSE at Chances Casino. It’s a place to enjoy lunch or dinner by renowned chef Steve Fecho – or brunch on the weekends. Open Monday to Wednesday 11 a.m. to midnight, Thursday 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to midnight. Families welcome until 10 p.m. daily. There are many, many other great places in Squamish including THE SHADY TREE PUB, the CLIFFSIDE PUB , THE RUDDY DUCK, THE JUMPING SEAGLE and the SUNFLOWER BAKERY CAFÉ, to name just a few. So no matter what your budget or taste, there’s a place for all palettes in Squamish. •
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Home in paradise: What to know before moving to Squamish
By STEVEN HILL
Y
OU may have heard about Squamish from all the recent coverage of the new Sea to Sky Gondola. You may have heard it’s considered one of the top mountain destinations in North America that you have to visit. You’ve been told there’s no other place like where the sea meets the sky amidst snow-capped mountains. You’ve come to understand that it offers the perfect blend of adventurous outdoor lifestyle and community focused cultural pursuits. Or maybe you’re a really big Twilight fan and you want to be where Bella and the whole vampire and werewolf gang were all captured on film.
above: Eaglewind. Photo: David Buzzard right: Crumpit Woods. Photo: David Buzzard 44 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
Whatever the reason, you’ve heard of Squamish, you’ve been charmed, and now you’re considering making it your home. Well, other people have been hearing the same things… and coming to the same conclusions. It’s one of the fastest growing communities in Canada, says Barbara Gloor, a real estate consultant with Remax. “The market is really active because there are a lot of young people moving here for the lifestyle.” In addition to offering a wealth of outdoor recreation and thriving arts scene, Squamish is also attractive to families, she says. “Young families find it safe,” Gloor says. “It’s a great place to raise kids and people like the
small town feel.” Its location is definitely key to its appeal, according to Damian Cromwell, a real estate agent at MacDonald Realty.
“There really isn’t a place like it.”
“There really isn’t a place like it, with its proximity to Vancouver and yet it’s far enough away from the city to retain that small town charm. It’s great for families.” It’s so appealing, in fact, that you have to act fast to secure your dream home in Squamish.
“I would say: Be prepared,” says Gloor. “Make sure you know what your budget is, and get preapproved for a mortgage. Then be prepared to make an offer when you see something you like.” She says young couples just looking to start off may find it easier to invest in a condo or townhome first as a “stepping stone” to their dream home. Cromwell suggested going for a walk around the various neighbourhoods. “Check out the different areas… Brackendale, Valleycliffe… and see what you like and where you’d like to find a home,” he says. “But you really should move quickly if you see something you like. It’s best to get
pre-qualified and hit the ground running.” Gloor says they are now seeing multiple offers on the same properties, with listings appearing and then just as quickly disappearing off the market. New listings are posted every day, she notes, “but it all moves quickly.” However, as a rapidly growing community, Squamish is also adding new housing. “There are always new townhome developments,” says Gloor. “Eaglewind sold out quickly, but there is Crumpit Woods, Wilson Crescent and in University Heights, there are properties being sold and houses being built. It is really active times and there is a little bit of everything on the market. But just be prepared. I’ve lived here for 20 years and it’s great to see Squamish really taking off.” Cromwell’s last bit of advice? “Just do it,” he says. “If you need to work in Vancouver, this is a great bedroom community. It’s an amazing commute along the Sea to Sky Highway, and you always get to come home to paradise.” •
SQUAMISH LOCATION Squamish is located approximately halfway between Vancouver and Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway.
DISTANCE FROM: Vancouver International Airport - 78km Downtown Vancouver 68km Whistler - 59km
POPULATION 17,158
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MEANING OF THE NAME Squamish means “Mother of Wind” or “Birthplace of the Winds” in the Coast Salish language.
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Squamish a hotbed for entrepreneurial growth
By CHRISTINE ENDICOTT
E
NTREPRENEURS are setting up shop in Squamish to take advantage of the lifestyle – and staying for the opportunities.
David Crewson, who founded the StartUp Squamish business incubator with Mario Gomes, calls the town an “adult Disneyland” where people can take a few hours off their workday to go on a mountain bike ride in the morning, take time to kiteboard in the afternoon or go on a sunset sail on Howe Sound in the evening. “If you get lucky, you can do all three in one day… that’s my favourite day,” says Crewson. But it’s not just the recreational opportunities that make this a perfect place to do business. “We’re surrounded by amazing people here,” he explains. “For businesses to succeed, you need to have diverse networks of creative people, and Squamish, for a small town, achieves that in spades. Arguably there is no other community of 18,000 people that 46 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
has this kind of talent base and this kind of diversity.” Crewson and Gomes opened StartUp Squamish at the corner of Cleveland and Pemberton Avenue last year to usher Squamish into its future. “We believe we’re at a tipping point right now,” Gomes says. “Right now, it is a tough environment because of the transition of the community.” The centre gives business owners support by working with others who are on the same rollercoaster. “Entrepreneurship can be very isolating,” explains Crewson. “There are days of euphoria, days of depression.” He explains that the economy in Squamish right now is in transition. “We are coming from a traditional economy with monolith employers and evolving
into one with greater diversity. All job growth is in small and medium-sized businesses.” Crewson, who previously owned a software firm in Whistler and worked for major players in technology such as Microsoft and IBM, and Gomes, whose background includes technology, fashion and housing, both invested their own capital to create StartUp Squamish. Crewson is an avid sailor, mountain biker, skier and kiteboarder, and Gomes was a competitive free diver – until he and his wife became parents and started a quieter family life in Squamish. “We totally fell in love with the community,” says Gomes, originally from Brazil. StartUp Squamish has what you would expect in a business incubator – a boardroom and desks – plus the unexpected: old gondolas, a kitchen and a giant chalkboard. “This is a sandbox. We want people to play,” Crewson says. The centre also offers events, mentorship and a business accelerator program.
“This is a sandbox. We want people to play.”
The pair is often asked what types of businesses will do best in Squamish. Crewson’s answer: “Typically, businesses that do well align with community values…. The digital, creative economy is beginning to thrive, and obviously rec tech [recreation technology companies] has started to take hold, but we also envision higher technology companies evolving in the traditional industries like forestry.”
Tourism, he adds, is one of the greatest emerging sectors, and the recreational playground setting of Squamish, with its myriad hiking and mountain biking trails, kiteboarding, festivals and proximity to world-class skiing, also helps attract a strong, intelligent workforce. The town has charm and authenticity, says Crewson. Mayor Patricia Heintzman says the District of Squamish aims for diversity in its economy. “I would rather see 500 businesses than one business contributing to the community, to the tax base,” she says. She acknowledges that some industries, such as wood products or rec tech, are “intuitive ones that make sense here.” “It makes sense to me to have a rec tech sector here because we have the best testing ground in the world,” says Heintzman, noting there is already a cluster in the business park. The community faces some challenges, notably housing, which is in high demand due to rapid population growth. “We need to focus on supporting entrepreneurs to develop the economic opportunities so we have the well paying jobs and the median income increases at the same rate as housing prices,” says Crewson. This is a time of opportunity, he says. “Squamish is a blank canvas at this point, and it is up to the entrepreneurs to find out what we will become. For those motivated, for those with visions, they can make an impact like in no other community.” •
left: David Crewson and Mario Gomes at StartUp Squamish. Photos: Christine Endicott Summer 2015 Discover Squamish | 47 Gem Jellewers - Discover Squamish - 15187.indd 1
2015-04-09 9:38 AM
New ‘rec tech’ sector thriving in Squamish By JENNIFER THUNCHER
S
PEND any amount of time sipping java at a Squamish coffee shop or relaxing at any local watering hole and chances are, someone will mention the booming “rec tech” industry in the Sea to Sky Corridor.
48 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
The term, which isn’t in any Canadian dictionaries yet, refers to companies that produce technologically advanced products for recreation. Here in the recreation capital of the world, there is a forest of such companies. Squamish-based OneUp Components is a seedling in the forest of rec tech. The company’s motto epitomizes the roots of many successful Squamish startups. “At the heart of the company are outdoor enthusiasts who had a dream to spend more time outside and less time working.” OneUp’s founders Jonathan Staples, Chris Heynen and Sam
Richards are engineers who launched their first product, a mountain bike sprocket and cassette that extends a bike’s gearratio range, about 18 months ago. The product was a project that allowed them to live in Squamish and create for their shared passion, mountain biking. “Being able to move to Squamish was a big catalyst to us being able to step out on our own,” says Staples. The men had a combined 25 years in the biking industry and wanted to continue in it, creating a business in the place where they rode. Products are manufactured overseas. Warehousing, shipping
and some assembly are completed in Squamish. Their venture has been more successful than they expected – they now ship to 72 countries and counting – so their next goal is to move out of their living rooms and into an affordable shared space in Squamish that will allow their company to grow. The location will be close to the trails. Another local company, 7Mesh, is nestled in a funky open concept workspace on “rec-tech corner,” near Queens Way and Commercial Way. The outdoor cycling-apparel company has made a name for itself in Squamish and around the world. The 7Mesh items are sold in eight
above and left: 7Mesh. Photo: David Buzzard right: OneUp’s Chris Heynen, Jonathan Staples and Sam Richards. Photo: Jennifer Thuncher
countries. A full new apparel line hit shops in March. Products are designed and prototypes are made in Squamish, and manufacturing is done in Asia. The company employs seven people locally. The brains behind the company stay true to their roots by carving out time to get out and hit the trails found just outside their door. “For us, it is about getting out and testing new product,” says 7Mesh’s Brian Goldstone. Jeff Cooke, president of the mountain biking lobby group Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association, said rec-tech companies give validity to the sport of mountain biking. “These guys love biking and they recognize how important our biking infrastructure is,” Cooke said. “In the long run, it makes Squamish not only a tourist destination for mountain biking, but it is creating kind of an epicentre for mountain biking and other rec-tech industries.” Like a forest, the rec tech industry is an ecosystem – each layer dependent on, or feeding, the next layer, the entrepreneurs explain. There are the elite athletes who train in Squamish, and then trail builders (Dream
Wizards) who advance the trail system, which in turn further attracts athletes. There are the designers and gear manufacturers, such as 7Mesh and OneUp, that use Squamish as a base for research and development, because of the access to the athletes and the trails.
“With the variety of trails and terrain, Squamish is the ultimate playground for someone like myself to truly put rec tech equipment to the test.”
Then there’s a layer of photographers and filmmakers who capture the athletes in action (Anthill Films), and industry media that reflect athletes’ images and knowledge (Pinkbike and Mountain Life magazine). Squamish’s world champion bike racer Sean Verret has a role in many aspects of the rec tech forest. As an elite athlete he trains on Squamish trails and is an ambassador for a variety of brands, most notably Norco Bicycles.
“I get the privilege to test out new technology and play with leading edge equipment in our back yard. With the variety of trails and terrain, Squamish is the ultimate playground for someone like myself to truly put rec tech equipment to the test,” he says. Verret also owns a business, which could be described as another branch or offshoot of the rec tech sector. His company, Enduro Performance Consultants Ltd., helps rec tech businesses get tax breaks. “If a rec tech company is producing new materials, pushing the limits of existing technology or even creating new technology, I help my clients get money back from the government for taking these research risks in order to create the best technology the industry has seen,” he explains. Verret also founded Fascinating Expedition and Adventure Talks (FEAT) Canada, a speakers series of athletes and adventurers. “I am lucky enough to see rec tech from three different perspectives,” he says. Rec tech may be a term used in dictionaries soon. In Squamish, it’s becoming part of the local lexicon. •
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& FESTIVALS 2015-16 EVENTS April 25
May 9
May 10
REFRESH MARKET
ORECRUSHER
A curated indie marketplace for handmade, vintage and locally designed wares with more than 70 vendors hailing from Whistler to Metro Vancouver.
Known as the “Republic of Brackendale Nationals,” the first of the Test of Metal Group of Events is a multi-lap classic XC mountain bike race through the Cheekeye Fan single-track in Brackendale.
SQUAMISH YOUTH TRIATHLON An event that sees local youths swim, ride then run for fun.
May 16-24
May 23
June 20
DAY OUT WITH THOMAS
LOOP THE LAKE TRAIL RACE
TEST OF METAL
It’s fun for all the family when beloved children’s character Thomas the Tank Engine visits the West Coast Railway Heritage Park.
With distances for everyone, this is one of the first events of race season and an opportunity to run some of the best trails Squamish has to offer.
June 27-July 4
July 11
July 12
July 15-18
BC BIKE RACE
SQUAMISH BEER FESTIVAL
SQUAMISH TRIATHLON
SQUAMISH MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
An outdoor celebration of craft beer featuring a selection of some of the best handcrafted beer from more than 70 craft breweries, plus live music, local food and more.
Determined athletes swim, bike and run for fun and friendly competition.
A three-day festival that celebrates Squamish’s climbing culture, featuring competitions, films, workshops, guest speakers, parties and more.
July 18
July 24-26
July 30-August 3
SQUAMISH GEARJAMMER
SQUAMISH WIND FESTIVAL
One of the most popular bike races in Squamish, Gearjammer is a 45 km point-to-point cross country mountain bike race that starts near Alice and finishes in Rose Park.
Celebrate Squamish wind and water sports through arts, music, theatre and craft.
SQUAMISH DAYS LOGGERS SPORTS FESTIVAL
For day six of the epic week-long BC Bike Race, 600 riders plus crew and well-wishers descend on Squamish to test their own mettle on the area’s renowned singletrack.
A 67-kilometre mountain bike race that’s been considered one of the most challenging courses and most grueling two-wheeled competitions in North America.
A weekend event showcasing Squamish’s forestry heritage featuring the best logger sports competitors from around the world, plus wacky bed races, a 10-kilometre run, pancake breakfast and more.
August 7-9
September 12
January 1-31
SQUAMISH VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL
RBC GRANFONDO
BRACKENDALE EAGLE FESTIVAL
A multi-day music fest featuring top musical acts and festival fun in the Squamish summer sun.
Photos: Ben Lypka 50 | Discover Squamish Summer 2015
This epic route travels from downtown Vancouver, along the beautiful Sea to Sky Highway and on to Whistler via Squamish. Riders can choose to ride the 122 kilometres or participate in the 55 kilometre MedioFondo starting in Squamish and ending in Whistler.
A month-long festival, featuring a special line-up of concerts, lecture series, art shows, group tours and the annual Bald Eagle Count.