BC Rockies

LIQUID MAGIC

The Canadian Rockies are famous for their hot springs. These warm, mineralized waters have been drawing people to relax and heal for over 7000 years, and they remain popular with locals and travellers to this day. But what’s so special about these so-called healing waters?

The hot springs in the Canadian Rockies were formed roughly 80 to 55 million years ago, alongside the formation of the mountains themselves. As the mineral-rich limestone was thrust into the sky, large fissures formed in the rock. Water collected high in the mountain peaks, in the form of rain or snow, and entered these fissures, travelling deep beneath the surface. The deeper the water travelled, the warmer it became.

As water warms, it expands. When water confined within rock expands, it creates pressure. Under this pressure, the water is forced back up to the surface through fractures in the rock. The now-hot water, which has absorbed many minerals from the limestone along its journey, reaches the surface in what we call a hot spring. As this water reaches the spring, more water is drawn from surrounding rock, rainfall and snowmelt to replace it, creating a continuous flow of hot, mineralized water.

The rich mineral content of natural hot springs has been called a “multivitamin for your skin”, which leaves you feeling refreshed and relaxed. Mineral content changes from one hot spring to the next, but usually includes a combination of sulphate, calcium, bicarbonate, silica, and magnesium.

Looking to take a soak? In the BC Rockies, visit Radium Hot Springs (p 104) or take the trip to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (p 106) and enjoy the large pools and family-friendly atmosphere.

GOLDEN

Located beyond the western edge of Yoho National Park is the town of Golden. Surrounded by five of Canada’s most stunning national parks, Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke, Golden is a basecamp for mountain adventure!

ART GALLERY OF GOLDEN Fine art from local artists. A true reflection of western mountain culture. 516 9 Ave N, 250-344-6186, kickinghorseculture.ca

BACCHUS BOOKS New and used bookstore with an upstairs café. Unique selection of new and over 15,000 used books. 409 9th Ave N, 250-272-2076

BEAR & BONE BURGER CO. Specializing in homemade, locally sourced burgers as well as sandwiches, salads and more. Try the Wing Wednesdays for good food with friends! 1202 Trans-Canada Hwy E, 250-344-7222, bearandboneburgerco.com BIG BEND CAFÉ Highlighting the flavours of Golden. Multigrain pancakes, huevos, and bottomless coffee. 528 9 Ave N, 250-344-6111, bigbendcafe.ca

CENTURY 21 Create your piece of paradise in Golden! Amber Granter, realtor. 902 10 Ave, 250-939-8605

COLUMBIA WETLANDS OUTPOST

Re-discover one of the world's living treasures. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or tobogganing on self-guided trails. Discover what makes this area so special and unplug for an unforgettable vacation. 2629 Hwy 95, 250-348-2235, columbiawetlandsoutpost.com

ELEVEN22 Located in a quaint home, this restaurant serves elevated Canadian cuisine with a European flair. Local beer and Okanagan wine. 1122 10 Ave, 250-344-2443, eleven22restaurant.com

GOLDEN MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

Local history including the Canadian Pacific Railway and Swiss mountain guides. 1302 11 Ave S, 250-344-5169, goldenbcmuseum.com GOLDEN SUSHI Delicious Japanese and Korean food including noodle soups, rice bowls, sushi, tempura, sake, and beer with a small grocery store. 828 10 Ave S, Unit G, 250-344-2231

ISLAND RESTAURANT Asian and European twists on local favourites. Two storey log cabin with great river views. 10110 Ave, 250-344-2400, islandrestaurant.ca

KALTIRE More than just tires! 24-hour emergency road service. Tire sales, repairs, travel trailer, and mechanical services. 1002 10 Ave N, Golden, 250-344-5213, kaltire.com

KICKING HORSE RIVER LODGE

Snuggled amid the Rocky and Purcell Mountains, the setting is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. 801 9 St N, 877-547-5266

KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN

RESORT The champagne powder capital of Canada! 6 lifts access over 3400 acres of skiable terrain. Runs for every level with plenty of advanced and freeride-style terrain. 1500 Kicking Horse Tr, 250-439-5425

MAD TRAPPER LIQUOR STORE

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

PEAKS GRILL Legendary for hearty post-skiing meals like burgers, fish & chips, and curry. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, 250-344-2925, peaksgrill.com

Q'S RESTAURANT Korean and Japanese fusion cuisine including noodles, rice bowls, and BBQ. 1402 Trans-Canada Highway North, 250-344-2243

REPOSADOS TACOS & TEQUILA

Taco and tequila bar. Fresh organic pressed tortillas, homemade hot sauces, and margaritas. Regular specials. 429 9 Ave N, 250-939-8807, reposadostacos.com

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BUFFALO

RANCH Winter accommodations are open. Stay in a beautiful, rustic, and secluded cabin. Call for inquiries about buffalo tours. 1739 Oberg Johnson Rd, 250-344-4779, leodowney.com/ rocky-mountain-buffalo-ranch

WINTER WONDERLAND

Are you ready to experience the untamed BC Rockies? In Golden, access Canada's mountain parks for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, or backcountry adventure. Check Tourism Golden (p 102) for great deals. Head down to the Columbia Wetlands Outpost (below) and enjoy self-guided skiing and snowshoeing, or take your snowmobile to explore some of the stunning trails. Radium Hot Springs (p 104) is famous for the pools, but they also have extensive trails for outdoor adventure. -TJ

SLED HEADS

Are you looking for great views, friendly service, and a classic Canadian experience? Look no further than a snomobile tour in the Canadian Rockies! Toby Creek Adventures (p 104) offers breathtaking tours for all abilities. Try exciting adventures in town or take to the backcountry for the ultimate powder. Rocky Mountain Riders (below) starts their tours from Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (p 101). Take one of their scenic tours, rent sleds, or hire a guide and ride your own machine! -TJ

ROCKY MOUNTAIN RIDERS

Snowmobile rentals and tours. Half day, full day and multi-day rentals. Top of the line Ski-doo performance and trail sleds. Gear up with a sled trailer, full avalanche safety kit with beacon, probe, and Air Bag avalanche pack, plus rent a GoPro camera to capture your day. Guided half day, full day, extreme backcountry, and evening moonlight tours available with local guides who know the best snow. Book guides to show you the secret stashes and use your own sled. Daily shuttles from Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and Field available. 1500 Kicking Horse Trail, 1-877-950-7533, rockymountainriders.com

ROCKWATER GRILL AND BAR Hand crafted food and cocktails made from the best ingredients. Regular live music and events. Large groups and fundraisers welcome. 429 9 Ave N, 250-344-5951, rockwatergrill.com

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RONA Large, in store product selection and excellent service. Home centre, building materials, décor, tools, outdoor power equipment, appliances, seasonal products, and more. 912 15 St S, 250-344-2964, rona.ca

SAVE ON FOODS Known for going the extra mile for customers. Local's favourite supermarket with pharmacy, deli, bulk foods, and bakery. Regular sales. 1020 10th Ave S, 250-344-5315, saveonfoods.com/store/golden

SELKIRK SKI AND BIKE At Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Ski gear, bootfitting, ski tuning, and more. Rentals, demos, and sales. Outdoor mountain apparel for sale. 1549 Kicking Horse Trail, 250-344-2925, selkirkskiandbike.com

SHEAR PERFECTION SALON

Full service hair salon carrying professional lines including Tri, Loma, L’Oréal, Kevin Murphy, and ISO. Clothing, product sales, and professional service. 521 9 Ave N, 250-344-7611

SWISS VILLAGE INN & RV PARK

Quiet location with scenic mountain views. Offering kitchenette units, accessible, and family suites. 10 RV sites with full hook-ups. 1107 14 St N, 250-344-2276, swissvillageinn.ca

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

TURNING POINT RESTAURANT

Family owned since 1988. Serving something for everyone with a menu that changes regularly. Gluten free and vegan dishes. Take out and delivery. 906 11 Ave S, 250-344-2566

WHITETOOTH BISTRO Casual bistro with elevated food using local ingredients where possible. Proper craftmanship and continuous creation of menus appeals to locals and visitors alike. Gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options available. 427 9 Ave, 250-344-5120, whitetoothbistro.com

WOLF'S DEN RESTAURANT Log cabin on the Kicking Horse River serving certified Angus steaks, gourmet burgers, vegetarian dishes, and more. 1105-9 St S, 250-344-9863

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RADIUM HOT SPRINGS

On the southern edge of Kootenay National Park is Radium Hot Springs. In addition to the famous mineral springs, this village is full of outdoor adventure for mountain enthusiasts.

FAR OUT ADVENTURE HUB

The best little outdoor adventure shop around! Rent snowshoes, skates, snow tubes, and more. Pick up or delivery. 7514 Main St E, 1-844-376-0632, rentfarout.com

Banff’s Best Tours & Rentals

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 wherever possible. 315 3rd Ave, 250-342-0209, fuzefood.com

GABLES MOTEL Family owned and operated minutes from the hot springs. Close to Kootenay National Park, Lake Windermere, and multiple ski resorts. Kitchenette suites with king bed, jacuzzi rooms, and pet friendly rooms. Electric vehicle charging stations coming soon. 5028 Hwy 93, 250-347-9866, gablesmotel.ca

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS POOLS One of BC’s top natural hot springs. Familyfriendly facility with plenty of space to relax and soak in the expansive hot pool or cool off in the swimming pool. The mineral water is odourless and clear, perfect for relaxing. The hot springs are operating at reduced capacity with restrictions in place. Expect outdoor wait times and dress for the weather! Towel and swimsuit rentals are available. Hwy 93S, 1-800-767-1611, hotsprings.ca/radium

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS VISITOR

CENTRE Discover the warmer side of the Rockies with Radium Hot Springs and the Columbia Valley. Stop by the visitor's centre to purchase Parks Canada passes, view wildlife exhibits, purchase souvenirs, and receive expert advice on the area and its activities. When visiting Radium Hot Springs, enjoy skiing, skating, snowshoeing, and relaxing in the famous hot pools. You're minutes away from skiing and snowboarding. 7556 Main St E, 250-347-9331, radiumhotsprings.com

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TOURS

Kicking Horse Snowmobile Family Snowmobile Extreme Backcountry Evening Moonlight

VIP Transportation & Snowmobile Gear Included On All Tours

Parking Lot 2, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort 1-877-950-SLED (7533) rockymountainriders.com

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INVERMERE/PANORAMA

15-min south of Radium Hot Springs is Invermere-on-the-Lake, located on Lake Windemere. A short drive down the road is Panorama Mountain Resort, an expansive ski resort community in the Purcell Mountains.

PANORAMA MOUNTAIN RESORT

Expansive ski resort and alpine village. 10 lifts to 3000 acres of varied terrain. Lodging, dining, shopping, spa, and child care facility. 2000 Panorama Dr, 250-342-6941

THE KANATA HOTEL In the Columbia Valley with 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

TOBY CREEK ADVENTURES Awardwinning snowmobile adventure tour company offering guided snowmobile tours for all levels of experience. Safety gear, equipment, and instruction included. Tour through old growth forest, mountain scenery, an alpine basin, and a former gold and silver mine. Half-day and full-day adventures in town or multi-day backcountry adventures for epic snow. Pickup from Banff Hotels. Toby Creek Rd, Panorama, 250-342-5047, tobycreekadventures.com

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FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS

This quiet resort community is the ultimate mountain escape. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and the famous mineral hot springs. It's the perfect mountain getaway for the whole family.

DESPERADOS LOUNGE Familyfriendly restaurant located at the Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Resort chalet. Offering a varied selection of appetizers and classic and trendy favorites. Sundance Café for ski hill classics. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

Your free maps to the Canadian Rockies

MAPHINTON 2021/22 MAP BANFF & LAKE LOUISE 2021/22MAP MAP JASPER 2021/22 MAP CANMORE & KANANASKIS 2021/22 MAP BC ROCKIES 2021/22

Widely available in brochure racks

Sights ActivitiesZipline Shopping Entertainment Sights ActivitiesShopping Entertainment Sights ActivitiesShopping Entertainment Sights Activities Shopping Entertainment Sights Activities Shopping Entertainment

Snowmobile & ATV Tours 1.888.357.4449 | Panorama tobycreekadventures.com

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS RESORT

Quaint, family-friendly luxury resort with year-round hot springs pools, historic bathhouse, full service spa, ski hill, and chalet. Accommodation, hot springs, dining, shopping, weddings, real estate, skiing, lessons, rentals, and packages. Find something for everyone all connected by the healing mineral waters of the natural hot springs. 5225 Fairmont Resort Rd, Reservations: 1-800-663-4979, fairmonthotsprings.com

NATURAL SPRINGS SPA Utilizing the abundant natural hot springs waters to create the ultimate spa experience. Amazing treatments include massages, scrubs, soaks, wraps, facials, manicures, pedicures, and more. Packages and luxury products available. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, 250-345-6007

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CANAL FLATS

15 minutes south of Fairmont Hot Springs is Canal Flats. The village is known for its hometown friendly atmosphere. It is between the lake and river, located within a wingspan of each other.

CANAL FLATS ARENA Ice hockey, figure skating, and shinny. Contact for schedule, safety measures, and fees. 4925 Burns Ave, 250-349-5617

COLUMBIA DISCOVERY CENTRE

The area around Canal Flats has been occupied for thousands of years by members of the Ktunaxa Nation. Nearby Lussier Hot Springs and Whiteswan Provincial Park attract visitors looking for a quiet escape. Close to ski hills and Kootenay National Park. Discover the history and attractions in Canal Flats and the Columbia Valley. 8866 Grainger Road, 250-349-5462, canalflats.ca

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The best home cooking in Canal Flats. Treats, easy lunches, and savory homestyle dinners. 9115 Grainger Rd, 250-688-6890

PONDEROSA PLACE Local business hub with several boutique shops including quality locally raised meat and produce from J2 Ranch Meat Shop, personalized and professional salon service from Jackie’s Hair Studio, fun shopping and discoveries from Pretty Old Things Antique Boutique, and more. 4957 Burns Ave

CRANBROOK & KIMBERLEY

Between the Rockies and the Purcells are Cranbrook and Kimberley. From exceptional scenery, to the endless activities, and the friendly people along the way, there's a lot to discover!

CANADIAN TIRE Home and hardware with seasonal items, auto parts and service, and more. Regular flyer sales and rewards program. Tamarack Centre, 1500 Cranbrook St N, 250-489-3300, canadiantire.ca

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

CRANBROOK HISTORY CENTRE

Bringing the stories of the past to life. Preserving and displaying internationally recognized paleontology specimens, a nationally designated railcar collection, and serving as 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 skiing, snowshoeing, excellent scenery, and mountain adventures just minutes from town. Cranbrook Visitor Centre: 620 Van Horne St S, 250-489-2563, cranbrooktourism.com

GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP

There's nothing as refreshing as a good night's sleep after a day of adventure! No matter where you're travelling throughout the BC Rockies, there are places for you to get some quality shuteye. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (p 106) has everything for the family including dining, skiing, and the famous hot springs. Fernie Fox Hotel (right) is family owned and operated. They're always happy to share the best trails, places to eat, and things to do around town! -KATE BARKER

DAYS INN Eco-friendly resort is just minutes from the Columbia Mountains and downtown Cranbrook. Amenities include pet friendly rooms, free breakfast, and close to the airport. 600 Cranbrook St N, 250-426-6683, wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn

EARTH’S OWN NATURALS Selling flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vape cartridges, drinks, oils, capsules, accessories, papers, and more. Friendly, knowledgable staff. Two locations in the East Kootenays: 148 Howard St, Kimberely, 778-481-5420 and 502 8 Ave, Fernie, 778-481-5425, earthsownnaturals.com

ELIZABETH LAKE LODGE Canadian Alpine Lodge with kitchen rooms and suites. Walking trails to bird sanctuary straight from your door. 590 Van Horne St S, Cranbrook, 250-426-6114

OK TIRE All-season, summer, winter, off-road, run-flat, lawn & garden, ATV/UTV, trailer, and golf cart tires. Full auto and roadside service. 200 Van Horne St N, Cranbrook, 250-426-2844, oktirecranbrook.com OLD CROW EMPORIUM Selling antiques, vintage finds, upcycled furniture, "handmade and fabulous crap." In the Platzl, Kimberley, 250-417-9982

RUNNERS RV Trusted source for RV sales and service since 1989. Purchase an RV or get expert service to get you back on the road and enjoying the outdoors. 2813 23 St N, Cranbrook, 250-489-4141, runnersrv.com

SPIRIT ROCK Family-friendly indoor climbing providing a high quality, safe, and fun place for all levels. A variety of terrain including kid’s area, bouldering wall, beginner routes, and long overhanging technical climbs. 110 Deer Park Ave, 250-427-7200, spiritrockcllimbing.com

TAMARACK CENTRE Cranbrook’s premiere shopping destination with stores, dining, and specialty businesses. Shop at known stores like Staples, Canadian Tire, Winners, and more. 180-1500 Cranbrook St N, 250-426-2231

FERNIE & ELKFORD

Fernie and Elkford are two hidden gems far from the crowds. Stay for the outdoors and enjoy everything the mountain lifestyle has to offer.

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

ELKFORD VISITOR CENTRE

Discover pristine natural wilderness close to Elk Lakes Provincial Park, Height of the Rockies and the Elk River. 750 Fording Dr, 250-865-4015

FERNIE ALPINE RESORT Over 2500 acres of skiable terrain, up to 37 feet of snow in a season, 142 named runs, 5 alpine bowls, and beginner’s area. 5339 Ski Hill Rd, 1-800-258 7669

FERNIE FOX HOTEL Quality and comfort you can trust. The closest hotel to the amazing trail network in Fernie Provincial Park and amenities and quality far beyond the price point. Friendly, local staff love to share their passion and insider knowledge of the area for a truly memorable experience. 2021 Hwy 3, 250-423-6788, ferniefoxhotel.com

FERNIE STANFORD RESORT Rooms, suites, and private condos on the Elk River. Pet friendly. 100 Riverside Way, Fernie, 250-423-5000, ferniestanfordresort.com

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

STICK AND STONE CANNA-

BIS CO. Ma & Pa cannabis shop selling product in an inclusive, educational space. Large variety of curated products to meet people's unique needs. 891 7 Ave, Fernie, 250-423-8718, stickandstone.ca

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