BC Rockies

WILD WETLANDS

The Columbia Wetlands are the largest intact wetlands in North America. They stretch between Canal Flats (p 120) and Golden (p 117) through the Rocky Mountain Trench, a long valley separating the Rocky and Purcell Mountain ranges.

The area is a vital ecosystem in the Pacific Flyway, a waterfowl migration route between the Arctic Ocean and South America. Each spring and fall, over 15,000 birds depend on this wetland to survive their migration.

The wetlands have the second-largest concentration of great blue herons in Canada, with over 300 pairs calling the area home. Songbirds, birds of prey, and shorebirds also live in this incredible ecosystem.

The area also houses hundreds of thousands of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Numerous species of fish call the wetlands home, including rainbow trout, walleye, bass, whitefish, and even white sturgeon. Before the watershed was so heavily dammed, the Columbia River alongside the wetlands was a major salmon river.

Humans have been accessing the Columbia Wetlands for over 12,000 years. The K’tunaxa People were known to catch Chinook Salmon in the area, while the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc People frequented the area for its natural resources.

The wetlands are recognized as a wetland of international importance by the United Nations. The Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners formed in 2006 and consists of over 30 groups, communities, and agencies dedicated to the wetlands.

To learn more about this incredible ecosystem and experience it first hand, visit the Columbia Wetlands Outpost (p 117).

GOLDEN

Located beyond the western edge of Yoho National Park is the town of Golden. Surrounded by five National Parks, the variety of activities in this mountain town will make your summer vacation memorable.

ART GALLERY OF GOLDEN Fine art, photography, ceramics, home goods, jewellery, and stationary from local artists, direct form the artist to the viewer. Gallery and gift shop. 516 9 Ave N, 250-344-6186, kickinghorseculture.ca/art-gallery-of-golden

BEAR & BONE BURGER CO.

Homemade, locally sourced burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Wing Wednesdays. 1202 Trans-Canada Hwy E, 250-344-7222, bearandboneburgerco.com BIG BEND CAFÉ Highlighting the flavours of Golden. All day breakfast including multi-grain pancakes, huevos, and bottomless coffee. 528 9 Ave N, 250-344-6111, bigbendcafe.ca

BURGESS SHALE Scientists guide hikes to fossil beds and discuss the geology and history of life on Earth. The Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation, 201 Kicking Horse Ave, Field, 250-343-6006

COLUMBIA WETLANDS OUTPOST

Re-discover one of the world's living treasures with a day at the wetlands. Canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, boat tours, farm tours, camping, new 21 hole disc golf, and special events. Inspired by respecting and preserving the natural ecosystem. Discover what makes this area special and unplug for an unforgettable vacation. 2629 Hwy 95, 250-348-2235, columbiawetlandsoutpost.com

GLACIER RAFT COMPANY Quality whitewater rafting adventures for over 35 years. Sharing the thrill of the water with everyone! Half day, full day, and heli-raft adventures. 1509 Lafontaine Rd, 877-344-7238, glacierraft.com

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FAMILY FRIENDLY

The BC Rockies are an excellent place for family fun. In Golden, visit Boo the Bear at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (p 118) and learn about grizzlies in their natural environment. Visit the Golden Skybridge (below) and take in the views or enjoy the new expansions this summer. Take a swim at Radium Hot Springs (p 120) and enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping, all connected by the healing waters of the natural hot springs. -TJ

GOLDEN GOLF CLUB 18-hole course on the Columbia River. 42-site RV park with hook-ups, water, and WiFi. Restaurant with patio and mini golf. Lessons, packages, and family rates. 866-727-7222, goldengolf.com

GOLDEN MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

Preserving local history including the CPR and Swiss mountain guides. Inspiring curiosity and sharing stories. 1302 11 Ave S, 250-344-5169, goldenbcmuseum.com

GOLDEN SKYBRIDGE The epic views from Golden’s must-visit attraction will take your breath away. Enjoy a nature walk that crosses two of the highest suspension bridges in Canada! Take in the scenery, a roaring waterfall, and a canyon from 130 m/426 ft in the air! Expansion for this summer includes bungee jumping, zipline, and a café. 503 Golden Donald Upper Rd, banffjaspercollection. com/attractions/golden-skybridge

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HYDRA RIVER GUIDES Helping adventure seekers raft the Canadian Wilderness For over 30 years. Tours on the best whitewater in the Canadian Rockies! All tours are led by highly trained and licensed guides. Kicking Horse Classic has class 4 rapids on the Kicking Horse River in Golden, BC. Wetsuits, booties, life jackets, and helmets included. 2936 Kicking Horse Rd, 800-644-8888, raftbanff.com

ISLAND RESTAURANT Award winning, locally owned restaurant. Serving Asian and European twists on local favourites. Two storey log cabin with great river views and patio. 10110 Ave, 250-344-2400, islandrestaurant.ca

KALTIRE Great service and a friendly atmosphere. Tire sales, repairs, travel trailer, and full mechanical services. Also offering 24-hour emergency road service. 1002 10 Ave N, Golden, 250-344-5213, kaltire.com

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ALL-IN ADVENTURE

Don't be afraid to pack light! There are plenty of places with top quality gear that will get you outside and enjoying the mountains across BC. Selkirk Sports (below) has bikes and e-bikes for every trail with expert service. Far Out Adventure Hub (120) will get you on the trail and on the water with their unbeatable selection of rentals, which they can deliver. In Fernie, rent mountain bikes and e-bikes, or hit the water with an inflatable watercraft from Gearhub Sports (p 122). -KATE BARKER

KFC/JUGO JUICE Kentucky Fried Chicken, burgers, and bigbox meals next to smoothies, wraps, salads, and a variety of grilled cheese sandwiches. Vegan and vegetarian options. 1002 Trans-Canada Hwy, 236-536-5532

KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN

RESORT Ride the gondola to hiking, biking, disk golf, dining, and via ferrata. Visit Boo at the grizzly bear refuge and learn about grizzlies in the wild. 1500 Kicking Horse Tr, 250-439-5425

MAD TRAPPER LIQUOR STORE

Large selection of cold beer, wine, and liquor at competitive prices. Monthly specials. Ample parking. 1203 9 St S, 250-344-6661

Q'S RESTAURANT Korean and Japanese fusion cuisine like sushi, noodles, bowls, and BBQ. Friendly service and great prices. 1402 Trans-Canada Highway North, 250-344-2243

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BUFFALO

RANCH Stay in a beautiful, rustic, and secluded cabin. Buffalo tours from May to Sept. 1739 Oberg Johnson Rd, 250-344-4779, leodowney.com/ rocky-mountain-buffalo-ranch ROCKY MOUNTAIN RIDERS ATV, side by side, and boat rentals with great prices and top brands. GoPro rentals to capture the adventure. 1500 Kicking Horse Trail, 1-877-950-7533, rockymountainriders.com

ROCKWATER GRILL AND BAR

Hand crafted food and cocktails from the best ingredients. Regular live music and events. 429 9 Ave N, 250-344-5951, rockwatergrill.com

RONA Canada's home improvement store. Home centre, building materials, décor, tools, power equipment, appliances, and seasonal products. 912 15 St S, 250-344-2964, rona.ca

SAVE ON FOODS Supermarket with pharmacy, deli, bulk foods, and bakery. Custom store sells local products whenever possible. Regular sales. 1020 10th Ave S, 250-344-5315, saveonfoods.com/store/golden

SELKIRK SPORTS Downhill, e-bike, and bike service. Rentals and sales. Top brands include Norco, Pivot, and RaceFace. Apparel for sale. 1549 Kicking Horse Trail, 250-344-2925, selkirkskiandbike.com SKYDIVE EXTREME YETI Safe and exhilarating skydiving since 2011. All instructors are trained members of the Canadian Sport Parachute Association with significant experience. Enjoy the experience of a lifetime. 250-272-9384, skydiveyeti.com

SLACK COUNTRY LIVING Selling unique mountain mercantile, gifts, art, clothing, and décor. Refreshments and outdoor seating. 811 Barber Rd, 250-344-1870, slackcountryliving.com

SWISS VILLAGE INN & RV PARK

Quiet with mountain views close to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Kitchenette units, accessible, and family suites. 10 RV sites. 1107 14 St N, 250-344-2276, swissvillageinn.ca

THE RANCH RV PARK AND

CAMPGROUND 400 acre riverside property. RV, tent, and yurt camping. Secluded sites. 15/30 amp hookups, showers, and laundry. 872 MacBeath Rd, Nicholson, 250-344-6825, goldencampground.ca

TURNING POINT RESTAURANT

Family owned since 1988. Serving something for everyone including gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. 906 11 Ave S, 250-344-2566

TOURISM GOLDEN Surrounded by five of Canada’s most stunning mountain national parks: Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke. Use Golden as your base to experience the spectacular scenery, iconic adventures, and National Parks heritage sites. For information on accommodations, activities, dining deals, and more, visit tourismgolden.com

WHITETOOTH BISTRO Elevated food focuses on quality ingredients and proper craftsmanship. BC wines, creative cocktails, and regional craft beer. Gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. 427 9 Ave, 250-344-5120, whitetoothbistro.com

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WAPTA WOW!

Wapta Falls is east of Golden on the TransCanada Highway. The 2.4 km/1.5 mi trail to the falls is well marked and well travelled. The most challenging part is the last 200 m/656 ft as you navigate the riverbank down to the base of the falls. The noise is intense as the water crashes into the rock wall in front of it, sending a mist into the air and making it rain on a clear mountain

day. -KYLE KERPAN

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS

On the southern edge of Kootenay National Park is the village of Radium Hot Springs. This small community has a timeless appeal. It's full of outdoor adventure and mountain enthusiasts.

D'S GELATO AND MINI GOLF

Excellent mini golf in the heart of the village! Finish with a delicious gelato treat. Fun for the whole family. Perfect for a hot summer's day! 4951 Hwy 95, 778-527-4999

FAR OUT ADVENTURE HUB

Providing outdoor adventures since 2015. Bike, e-bike, canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals as well as event rentals. Guided canoe and kayak adventures. Delivery to popular spots. 7514 Main St E, 1-844-376-0632, rentfarout.com

FUZE FOOD & SMOOTHIE BAR Sharing a love of fresh ingredients, unique flavours, and clean, indulgent eating. Serving real food that tastes great and is also good for you made with organic and local ingredients. 315 3rd Ave, 250-342-0209, fuzefood.com GABLES MOTEL Family owned and operated. Close to the hot springs, Kootenay National Park, Lake Windermere, and multiple golf courses. Kitchenette suites with king bed, fire pits, and patio with BBQ. Pet friendly rooms. 5028 Hwy 93, 250-347-9866, gablesmotel.ca

KOOTENAY RIVER RUNNERS

Excellent rafting since 1976. Select your adventure level from 3 distinct rivers! Choose from the fast Toby Creek, the extreme Kicking Horse River, or the adventurous Kootenay River. 4987 Hwy 93, 250-347-9210, raftingtherockies.com

LEO BURRITO Real food served fast with excellent service. All food made in house including salsas, sauces, slow cooked meats, pickled goods, soups, and more. 4951 Hwy 93778-527-4999

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS One of BC’s top natural hot springs. This family-friendly facility has plenty of space to relax and soak in the expansive hot pool or cool off in the swimming pool. Mineral water is odourless and clear, perfect for relaxing. The recently renovated building is designed with comfort in mind. Towel and swimsuit rentals. Hwy 93S, 1-800-767-1611, hotsprings.ca/radium

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS VISITOR

CENTRE Discover the Village of Radium Hot Springs and the Columbia Valley from those who live and love it every day. Whether you're seeking a journey of heart-pumping adventure or a quiet weekend to recharge in nature, you will find it in Radium. Purchase Parks Canada passes discover wildlife exhibits, purchase souvenirs, and get expert advice. 7556 Main St E, 250-347-9331, radiumhotsprings.com

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INVERMERE-ON-THE-LAKE

15-min south of Radium Hot Springs is Invermere-on-the-Lake, located on the northern shore of beautiful Lake Windemere, this is a summer paradise for regional and international travellers alike.

EAGLE RANCH RESORT 18 holes of golf perched along ancient bluffs overlooking the Columbia River. Excellent dining, comfortable accommodations, and events. 9581 Eagle Ranch Tr, 1-877-877-3889, eagleranchresort.com

THE KANATA HOTEL Friendly service, extra amenities, and a convenient location. Spend less and see more of what matters with Kanata. 8888 Arrow Rd, Invermere, 250-342-8888, kanatainns.com

CANAL FLATS

40 minutes south of Invermere is Canal Flats. This area is known for its lake and river, located within a wingspan of each other, and its relaxed, friendly mountain atmosphere.

COLUMBIA DISCOVERY CENTRE

The area around Canal Flats has been occupied for thousands of years by members of the Ktunaxa Nation. The area is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, attracting visitors who love the mountain lifestyle. Discover the history and attractions in Canal Flats and the surrounding Columbia Valley. 8866 Grainger Road, 250-349-5462, canalflats.ca

HIT 'N RUN SNACK SHACK All day treats, easy lunches, and homestyle dinners. Supporting local businesses: all meals use local ingredients. 9115 Grainger Rd, 250-688-6890

PONDEROSA PLACE Business hub with boutique shops including J2 Ranch Meat Shop, Pretty Old Things Antique Boutique, and Village Social Café. 4957 Burns Ave

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Experience the Serenity & Wonder of The World-Famous Columbia Wetlands

Captained Adventures, Canoe & E-Canoe, Kayaking Paddle Boarding, Camping, Farm Tours & New 27-Hole Disc Golf Course Book Now! 250-348-2235

columbiawetlandsoutpost.com

MOUNTAIN. RISE.

Oh to feel young again...a soul re-created by life outdoors, mountain vistas, and renewed thoughts of conquering life’s passions. In Canal Flats, free spirit is...free.

www.canalflats.com

TILLEY MEMORIAL PARK Lakeside park with a large grassy area, pebbled beach, and enclosed swimming area. Wheelchair access, shaded picnic tables, washrooms, and the only public boat launch on Columbia Lake.

CRANBROOK & KIMBERLEY

Between the Rockies and the Purcells are Cranbrook and Kimberley. The area is known for parks, warm water lakes with beaches for swimming, hiking, biking, golf, and whitewater rafting. There's a lot to discover!

COLLEGE OF THE ROCKIES State of the art campuses for skilled workers and employees. Small class sizes and personalized instruction with up-todate technology. 2700 College Way, Cranbrook, 250-489-8242, cotr.bc.ca

CRANBROOK HISTORY CENTRE

Internationally recognized paleontology specimens, nationally designated railcar collection, and a regional repository for the history of the East Kootenay. 57 Van Horne St, 250-489-3918, cranbrookhistorycentre.com

CRANBROOK TOURISM Eat, stay, shop, and explore the sunniest city in BC and the basecamp of the Kootenays. Enjoy hiking, biking, dining, peaceful lakes, river valleys, and golf courses just minutes from town. Cranbrook Visitor Centre, 620 Van Horne St S, 250-489-2563, cranbrooktourism.com

DAYS INN Eco-friendly resort just minutes from the Columbia Mountains, Cranbrook, and the Cranbrook Golf Club. Pet friendly rooms, and free breakfast. Close to the airport. 600 Cranbrook St N, 250-426-6683, wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn

SPIRIT ROCK Family-friendly indoor climbing. Kid’s area, bouldering wall, beginner routes, and overhanging technical climbs. 110 Deer Park Ave, Kimberley, 250-427-7200, spiritrockcllimbing.com

TAMARACK CENTRE Shopping destination with dining, and specialty businesses. Staples, Canadian Tire, and Winners. 180-1500 Cranbrook St N, 250-426-2231, tamarackcentre.ca WILDSTONE GOLF Black Knight by Gary Player Design. Par 72 course. Set on the rolling highlands above town with stunning postcard views of the Rocky Mountains from start to finish. 950 Wildstone Dr, Cranbrook, 250-489-1282, wildstonegolf.com

FERNIE & ELKFORD

Discover these hidden gems far from the crowds. Stay for the outdoors and enjoy hiking, biking, fly fishing, camping, and so much more.

BARKSIDE Local pet store run by animal lovers who focus on holistic food, supplements, and products for your pet's active, mountain lifestyle. 791 2 Ave, Fernie, 250-423-4332, barkside.com

FERNIE GOLF CLUB Picturesque par 70 course known for its majestic mountain setting and playability. Something for everyone with 1 hr short loop, dining, and driving range. Pro shop staffed by PGA of Canada professionals. 201 Fairway Dr, 250-423-7773, golffernie.com

FERNIE STANFORD RESORT

Spacious rooms, suites, and cozy private condos on the beautiful Elk River just minutes from outdoor adventure. Pet friendly. 100 Riverside Way, Fernie, 250-423-5000, ferniestanfordresort.com

GEARHUB SPORTS Award winning local outdoor store with bikes, backcountry gear, and clothing. New and consignment items, rentals, and service. Custom orders, youth selection, and trade-in options. 401 1 Ave, Fernie, 250-423-5555, gearhub.ca

NELSON

Located in the Selkirk Mountains on the West Arm of Kootenay Lake in BC's Southern Interior, Nelson has a passion for the arts and outdoors.

KWC MERCANTILE Selling fun and casual women's fashions, unique gifts, and souvenirs in a historic building designed in the year 1900. A must stop for any trip to Nelson! 498 Baker St, 250-354-7098