British Columbia

British Columbia
Outdoor Adventure Guide2010

HelloBC.com
Super, Natural
Canada
landadventures
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Hiking & Backpacking Camping & Parks Mountain Biking & Cycling Wildlife Viewing Rock Climbing & Mountaineering Horseback Riding & Guest Ranches Caving Hang-gliding & Paragliding Ziplining & Bungee Jumping Hot Springs
contents
Welcome Land Adventures Water Adventures Winter Adventures Adventure Routes 4 8 34 54 64 66 68 70
wateradventures
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Kayaking Canoeing River Rafting Whale Watching Fishing Sailing, Cruising & Marine Parks Windsurfing & Kiteboarding Scuba Diving Surfing Jet Boating House Boating
Planning Tools Travel Information British Columbia Map
winteradventures
This publication is printed annually to promote tourism in British Columbia. 2010 Tourism British Columbia. This Guide does not constitute and should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of any carrier, hotel, restaurant or any other facility in British Columbia, for which Tourism British Columbia and Canada Wide Media Limited do not assume any responsibility. Super, Natural British Columbia, Share the Excitement, Hello BC, Visitor Centre, Discover Camping and all associated logos and trademarks are trademarks of Tourism British Columbia. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.
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Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding Heli/Snowcat Skiing & Snowboarding Cross-country Skiing & Backcountry Touring Dogsledding Snowshoeing Snowmobile Adventures
Front Cover: Bowron Lake Provincial Park, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Photo: Chris Harris/All Canada Photos Printed on recycled paper 30% post-consumer content Please recycle
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Published for Tourism British Columbia by Canada Wide Media Limited 4th Floor, 4180 Lougheed Hwy, Burnaby, BC V5C 6A7 Phone (604) 299-7311 Fax (604) 299-9188
FOR ACCOMMODATIONS, RESERVATIONS AND TRAVEL IDEAS VISIT
HelloBC.com OR CALL 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622)
WelcometoBritishColumbia
Its no wonder British Columbia was chosen to host the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Visit BC today and youll see what the rest of the world is discovering: unparalleled scenery; a multitude of world-class skiing and snowboarding destinations; an irrepressibly outgoing and fun spirit; and a culture and appetite for adventure unlike anywhere else. Introduce yourself to British Columbia today, and discover why were one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. All this neatly arranged into six regions, each with its own unique adventures to beckon you.
Yoho National Park, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Dani Tschudin
NWT
CANADA
Vancouver
Calgary Seattle
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Montral Toronto
DETAILED MAP ON PG.70 >>
NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

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CARIBOO CHILCOTIN COAST
OSOYOOS
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VANCOUVER ISLAND
With its magnicent waterfalls, primordial rainforests and the highest mountain peaks in BC, this land is as unspoiled and unbelievably beautiful as you can get. If youre looking for wilderness adventure, come explore by foot, horseback or canoe in summer; and in winter, by dogsled or snowmobile.

This is cowboy country where you can ride the range, pan for gold along the Gold Rush Trail, go shing, hike to the top of an old volcano, go whitewater rafting or explore the fjord-fringed coast by kayak. In winter, snow-covered range lands are ideal terrain for cross-country skiing.
VANCOUVER ISLAND
VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
VICTORIA AND THE GULF ISLANDS

These islands of emerald green forests and sandy beaches are idyllic playgrounds for cycling, ocean kayaking, shing, hiking and sailing. In winter, downhill skiing and snowboarding in knee-deep powder awaits. You can even whale watch from the ferry deck as you cruise to and from the islands.

Cant decide between mountain or ocean adventures? Do both. Canoe, kayak, windsurf, sail and scuba dive along the coast. Then, rock climb or hike our local mountains. Of course, you can also cast for trout in our rivers and lakes or enjoy a wild river rafting trip. Then when the snow falls, hit Whistlers legendary slopes for unrivalled downhill skiing and snowboarding.
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
Millions of years ago, massive glacial oes carved out a valley and created an ideal place for outdoor adventures. Warm water lakes for houseboating and waterskiing. Rushing rivers to ride. Rugged lands for hiking and mountain biking in summer and superb, deep powder skiing in winter.
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
With towering mountains, glacier-fed lakes and lush evergreen valleys, this region offers one stunning vista after another. And one adventure after another. Mountain climbing or biking, horseback riding, whitewater kayaking, downhill skiing and much, much more.
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Sometimesthebestroadtotake isnoroadatall
A strange thing happens when you travel off the beaten path in British Columbia you make some truly amazing discoveries. Living underwater museums of huge shipwrecks, octopus and coral. Wilderness trails to secret waterfalls. Ancient Aboriginal petroglyphs visible only by kayak or canoe. But whats even more remarkable than the places you discover, is what you discover about yourself.
Tono, Vancouver Island
Photo: Jeremy Koreski/All Canada Photos
say HELLO to the vacation of a lifetime

HelloBC makes planning a BC outdoor adventure easy. For accommodations, reservations and travel ideas, visit HelloBC.com or call 1-800 HELLO BC.
land adventures
Climb the highest mountain, pitch a tent surrounded by wilderness, or spot a bear across a misty lake. Ride the range or hop on the saddle of a mountain bike, follow the trail of a famous explorer or go below ground to discover mysterious caves. Hug a 400-year-old tree or climb soaring vertical walls. Think diversity, think untouched, think challenges think British Columbia.
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pg9_hiking & backpacking pg13_camping & parks pg16_mountain biking & cycling pg20_wildlife viewing pg22_rock climbing & mountaineering pg25_horseback riding & guest ranches pg27_caving pg28_hang-gliding & paragliding pg28_ziplining & bungee jumping pg30_hot springs
Grizzly Bear, Atnarko River, Bella Coola Valley, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
Photo: Michael Wigle
Explore a wooded trail, clamber up rounded boulders beside a roaring river, tread softly to spot wildlife, and push your cardio limit on steep terrain BC has some of the best and most demanding hiking in North America.
hiking & backpacking
through old-growth forest and offers incredible ocean panoramas. Take a break with a refreshing swim in a secluded lake and bed down at a wilderness campsite. Or stay at an oceanfront bed and breakfast in Powell River, a historic town on the upper Sunshine Coast.
Rating: Sections range from easy to advanced; entire trail is advanced Time Required: 10-12 days for entire trail; shorter day hikes possible
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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JUAN DE FUCA MARINE TRAIL
GARIBALDI LAKE/BLACK TUSK TRAIL
Dazzling views, waterfalls, old-growth forests, intriguing estuaries and marine life along a 47-kilometre (28-mile) route on southern Vancouver Island. Check out Botanical Beach at low tide to marvel at colourful and exotic marine life including sea urchins, sea stars and chitons. Multiple access points and wilderness campsites along the trail allow for day hikes or multi-day excursions.
Rating: Easy to advanced, depending on portion of trail Time Required: 3-5 days for entire trail; shorter day hikes possible
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Gear up for an ambitious day trip to Garibaldi Lake (18 km/11 mi roundtrip) or backpack up to Black Tusk (30 km/19 mi roundtrip) and bask in the beauty of Garibaldi Provincial Park, which boasts extinct volcanoes, ancient glaciers, icy ponds, cascading streams, and meadows lled with heather and late-summer wildowers. Cook out in one of the four shelters or pitch a tent at one of the 50 wilderness campsites. The trail is accessed between the recreational meccas of Squamish and Whistler so plan add-on adventures such as mountain biking, river rafting, rock climbing, ziplining, windsurng, kiteboarding, canoeing and kayaking.
Rating: To the lake: intermediate; to Black Tusk: advanced Time Required: To the lake: 7-8 hours roundtrip; to Black Tusk: 2 days roundtrip
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THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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BERG LAKE TRAIL
NOOTKA ISLAND TRAIL
A remote 35-km (22-mi) coastal hiking trail on the western edge of Vancouver Island, accessed by boat or oat plane. Explore sea caves, rock arches, tidal pools, giant trees and sandy beaches Pacic coast wilderness at its best. End your trek at Yuquot (Friendly Cove) and take a guided tour to learn about this National Historic Site.
Rating: Advanced Time Required: 5-7 days
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SUNSHINE COAST TRAIL
A challenging 180-km (112-mi) route that begins near the remote and beautiful Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park and ends in Saltery Bay. Five trail sections make it possible to take day hikes along the strikingly scenic route that winds
An epic, 23-km (14-mi) one-way hike that showcases some of the provinces most astounding mountain scenery, including spectacular views of Mount Robson, the highest summit in the Canadian Rockies at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet). Backpackers stay at wilderness campgrounds and follow a route that wraps around the west side of Mount Robson, past lush forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and glaciers en route to the spectacular sight of glacier-fed Berg Lake and Mount Robsons north face. You may witness large chunks of ice calving into the silty, blue-green waters of Berg Lake and echoing dramatically through the valley. Advance registration is required at the Mount Robson Visitor Centre before beginning a multi-day hike. A number of campsites are available for reservation by calling the Discover Camping reservation service at 1-800-689-9025.
Rating: Advanced
WEST COAST TRAIL
>> HIKING & BACKPACKING

YUKON NWT
A demanding and internationally acclaimed 75-km (47-mi) trail in Pacic Rim National Park Reserve, spanning the wild southwest coast of Vancouver Island. The multi-day trail takes hikers along wild and remote coastal areas, through cedar, hemlock and spruce forests, along cliffs, beaches and sandstone ledges, and over suspension bridges spanning rivers and streams. Strength and stamina are required for operating cable cars across riverbeds, climbing cliff-face steps and ladders, and dealing with often challenging weather conditions. Hike the trail north to south, or south to north; there are transportation links at each end. Combine this trek with saltwater shing and kayaking accessed from Bameld (at the north end of the trail). Register in advance at 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622); to avoid overcrowding on the trail there is a quota system during the summer months. (There is also a rst-come, rst-served list on arrival at the trailheads.)
Rating: Advanced Time Required: 6-8 days
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JUAN DE FUCA MARINE TRAIL NOOTKA ISLAND TRAIL WEST COAST TRAIL GARIBALDI LAKE/BLACK TUSK TRAIL SUNSHINE COAST TRAIL BERG LAKE TRAIL CATHEDRAL PROVINCIAL PARK MOUL FALLS TRAIL ROCKWALL TRAIL YOHO NATIONAL PARK RAINBOW RANGE TRAIL MONKMAN PASS MEMORIAL TRAIL NISGAA MEMORIAL LAVA BED PARK BUTZE RAPIDS TRAIL
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WHISTLER KELOWNA KEREMEOS
RADIUM HOT SPRINGS
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Hiking & Backpacking contd:
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
HELMCKEN FALLS LODGE

Situated 25km inside Well Gray Park; come and enjoy the summer sun or our winter wonderland. Guided activities include day and overnight hiking and canoeing and horseback riding. In winter we offer 50km of groomed cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog-sledding and snowmobiling. This rustic 1948 hunting lodge has 21 cozy rooms with wireless internet, a licensed dining room, bar and lounge area. Box 239, 6664 Clearwater Valley Road Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0 Tel: 250-674-3657 Fax: 250-674-2971 info@helmckenfalls.com www.helmckenfalls.com Tono and Clayoquot Sound, Vancouver Island
Photo: Jeremy Koreski BritishColumbiaPhotos.com Helmcken Falls Lodge 1
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Travel Easy 3-in-1! Shampoo Conditioner Soap

Just one light, compact travel tin. Earth friendly! Convenient cotton cord for hanging indoors or out. All natural ingredients enriched with herbs and essential oils for fabulous hair and skin. Its all you need! Clayburn Comforts Soap & Body Works, in historic Clayburn Village Abbotsford, BC Canada 604.746.2633 www.clayburncomforts.com
A wilderness park in the southern Okanagan Valley that spans dense temperate forests to arid, desert-like terrain with a rich variety of ora and fauna. Gear up for a full-day hike on the 16-km (10-mi) one-way Lakeview Trail, the most direct route to the core of this wilderness park that has dazzling lakes, a variety of trails and camping opportunities. For less roughing it, a four-wheel-drive service transports hikers into the park where a lodge, cabins and campsites are available. Spend hours shing for rainbow or cutthroat trout, hike to unique rock formations or, in fall, admire the golden larch trees.
Rating: Trails to the core area are advanced; trails within the core area range from easy to advanced Time Required: A full-day hike or one hour via the four-wheel-drive transport service into the core area; hikes within the core area vary from 30 minutes 10:50:37 AM to a full day
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CATHEDRAL PROVINcIAL PARK
KOOTENAY ROcKIES
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Kootenay National Park is a haven of hikes with many loop trails and wilderness camping sites set amid jagged pinnacles, hanging glaciers, limestone canyons and, on this 54-km (34-mi) loop, beautiful Floe Lake. Plan this classic mountain hike when the wildowers ourish into a carpet of dazzling colours; also visit the paint pots, bright ochre beds once used by Aboriginals for ceremonial purposes. Head outside the park to spoil yourself: stay in a mountain lodge with gourmet dining, do some heli-hiking or take a mountaineering course.
Rating: Advanced Time Required: Depends on loop option, 3-4 days for the outer loop
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ROcKWALL TRAIL
NATIONAL pARK
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THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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WELLS GRAY ADVENTURES

Lodge to Lodge hiking in Wells Gray Park; British Columbias famous wilderness park. Three remote lodges in the alpine allow you to hike for a week with a light pack. Canoe one of BCs premiere lake systems. Trips from 1 to 14 days special rates for families and groups Great Service/Excellent prices! Box 188 Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0 www.skihike.com info@skihike.com Toll Free -1 888 SKI TREK (1 888 754 8735)
Follow this 3-km (1.9-mi) one-way trail that meanders through forest then drops into a canyon at the base of the 35-m (115-ft) Moul Falls, one of 40 waterfalls in the 540,000-hectare (1.3-million-acre) Wells Gray Provincial Park. Camp out or stay in the tiny town of Clearwater to explore canyons, hoodoos, lakes, abandoned homesteads and ower-lled alpine meadows; there are hiking trails for every ability. Watch for mule deer, white-tail deer, moose, black bears and ruffed grouse; this is wilderness at its best and some of it including Helmcken and Dawson falls is vehicle-accessible.
Rating: Easy Time Required: 2-3 hours roundtrip
MOUL FALLS TRAIL
A treasure of wilderness with more than 400 km (249 mi) of hiking trails, some of Canadas highest waterfalls, pristine glacial lakes and a bevy of snow-crowned peaks. Hike up the 11-km (6.8-mi) access road to Lake OHara, or catch a scheduled bus to save your energy for the varied hikes around the gorgeous teal-blue lake. Plan in advance as a reservation and quota system helps protect the fragile alpine ecosystem around Lake OHara. Take the guided 20-km (12-mi) roundtrip hike to Burgess Shale that boasts 505-million-year-old Cambrian-aged fossils. Reserve in advance through the Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation. Bring pencil and paper to make rubbings of the fossils.
Rating: Lake OHara Trails are easy to advanced; Burgess Shale hike is intermediate Time Required: Lake OHara Trails range from one hour to a full day; Burgess Shale guided hike takes 10 hours (includes both hiking and interpretation)
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Berg Lake Trail, Mount Robson Provincial Park, Thompson Okanagan
Whistler, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Tourism BC/JF Bergeron
cARIbOO cHILcOTIN cOAST

A big draw to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is the Rainbow Range an ancient volcanic mountain range with remarkable colours from the red, orange, yellow and lavender lava rock. Follow a seven-km (four-mi) trail through stands of lodgepole pine and alpine r, with fantastic views of the vividly coloured mountain range, and end at a small alpine lake. Experienced hikers can use the end of this Fort trailNelson.indd as a starting point to explore the diversied terrain within Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, which is the provinces largest wilderness park.
Rating: Intermediate Time Required: 2-3 hours one-way
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RANGE TRAIL
Remember to ask for your free Visitor Guide! Fort Nelson & the Northern Rockies tourism@northernrockies.ca (250) 774-2541
www.tourismnorthernrockies.ca
10/26/09 3:16:15 PM
NORTHERN bRITISH cOLUmbIA

Discover the rugged beauty of the north on this 63-km (39-mi) one-way hike that passes through Monkman Provincial Park, a landscape of vast alpine meadows, formidable mountain peaks, forested valleys, powerful waterfalls, serene alpine lakes, old-growth spruce forests and unique geological formations. A highlight for waterfall enthusiasts along this trail that traces the historic Monkman Pass Route is the Cascades, 10 spectacular waterfalls along Monkman Creek. Visitors to the park will also want to view Kinuseo Falls, just inside the park entrance, where the Murray River plunges 60 m (200 ft) over a geological fault to the riverbed below. In Tumbler Ridge, play paleontologist on a guided dinosaur trackway tour.
Rating: Advanced Time Required: 5-6 days HelloBC.com 11
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pASS mEmORIAL TRAIL
Hiking & Backpacking contd:

to step back and drink in spectacular ocean views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife wolves and other wildlife frequent this area.
Rating: Easy Time Required: 2-3 hours
Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Provincial Park, Northern BC

GUIDED TOURS: For overnight hikes, enjoy the services of a knowledgeable outdoor guide. Some backcountry treks are porter-, horseor even llama-assisted. Some operators offer heli-hiking vacations into remote alpine environments. Guided trips often include other activities such as biking, rafting, kayaking or horseback riding. Spend time in nearby Terrace, a hub of adventures from hiking and rafting to river and lake shing.
Rating: Intermediate Time Required: 4 hours
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NISGAA MEMORIAL LAVA BED PARK
Take the 6-km (3.7-mi) roundtrip guided tour through old-growth forest to a viewpoint that overlooks the Tseax Cone that erupted in the mid-1700s, believed to be the provinces most recent volcanic eruption. Learn about the diverse lava-ow features on this hike or on ve short, self-guided interpretive trails; access to the cone is only with a guide. Book hikes at the Nisgaa Visitor Centre and hear about the culture and legends of the Nisgaa, whose people lived here during the eruption.
DOING IT YOURSELF: Pick up trail maps from Visitor Centres, park entrances and ofces.
PRACTICAL POINTS AND SAFETY: Be prepared for changing weather and 14 BUTZE RAPIDS TRAIL emergencies, carry the hiking essentials, and advise someone of your hiking itinerary In Prince Rupert, take this scenic and easily and planned return. accessible ve-km (three-mi) hike through oldCapilano RV Park:Capilano RV Park 10/7/08 growth forests, wetlands and bogs; the Butze Rapids a set of reversing tidal rapids are FOR MORE INFORMATION a highlight. Visit HelloBC.com/hiking Stop for a close-up look at plant ecosystems or
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LODGE BASED HIKING IN THE HIGH ALPINE
V A N C O U V E R, B C
On the Northern End of Lions Gate Bridge. only minutes from downtown Vancouver
The Swiss style, helicopter accessed, Durrand Glacier Chalet, 40 km NE of Revelstoke, is situated in the pristine wilderness of the Northern Selkirk Mountains. An established network of trails leads you to blooming meadows, alpine lakes, mountain peaks and glaciers. Our 1st class chalet offers fabulous views, comfortable accommodation and great meals. DURRAND GLACIER - SME PO Box 2998, Revelstoke, BC, V0E 2S0
Supervised 24 hrs/day Swimming Pool 50-30-15 amps, water, cable TV, sewerhook-up Dumping & propane stations Cedar Room with 10 person jacuzzi Modern Childrens Play Station Free Showers, clean washrooms. Laundry, Ice and water facilities Sorry, no dogs 295 Tomahawk Ave.,North Vancouver, BC Canada, V7P 1C5, Fax (604) 987-2015
PHONE (604) 987-4722

e-mail: info@capilanorvpark.com
Tel: 250 837 2381 Fax: 250 837 4685 info@selkirkexperience.com www.selkirkexperience.com
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Selkirk Mountain.indd 1 11/26/07 10:55:55 AM
www.capilanorvpark.com
With an amazing 13 million hectares (32 million acres) of protected wilderness in BC, this province is rich with natural wonders. Bed down amid old-growth forest beside a glacial lake, on a pristine beach or near soaring mountain peaks.
camping & parks
considered a agship of BCs provincial park system. Spend time hiking, viewing wildlife, canoeing, kayaking, river rafting, shing, cycling, horseback riding and rock climbing this renowned park has it all.
Facilities: 3 vehicle-accessible campgrounds totalling 180 sites; backcountry camping options available
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VANCOUVER ISLAND
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PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE
The park encompasses three distinct wilderness areas on the west coast of Vancouver Island: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands and the West Coast Trail. The wonders of this vast park include a dazzling array of life that inhabits the many intertidal and subtidal zones; you may even spot some of the more than 20,000 grey whales migrating through here from mid-March to mid-April. Explore by kayak: the Broken Group Islands archipelago is one of the worlds premier sea kayaking destinations.
Facilities: Drive-in and walk-in camping at Long Beach; wilderness camping areas on eight of the Broken Group Islands; designated backcountry campsites along the West Coast Trail
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Bring your adventuresome spirit hiking, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding and shing are all options, and in colder months you can set up camp to downhill ski and snowboard, cross-country ski or snowshoe.
Facilities: 4 vehicle-accessible campgrounds totalling 355 sites; 10 wilderness campgrounds totalling 55 sites; 2 locations for winter camping
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WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK
PORPOISE BAY PROVINCIAL PARK
Located on the Sechelt Inlet, large sites with towering evergreens lead to a sandy, sunny beach; an idyllic setting for kayakers and those who wish to relax. Hike the forested trails leading to the estuary, keeping watch for harbour seals and bald eagles on your route. In the evening, get to know fellow campers at one of the communal campre pits.
Facilities: 84 vehicle-accessible campsites and a cyclist-only camping area
A striking 540,000-ha (1,334,000-ac) expanse that offers something for every outdoor enthusiast: spectacular waterfalls, glaciers and mountain peaks, lush alpine meadows, excellent birding and wildlife viewing, and the worldrenowned Bowron Lakes canoe circuit. Fish for trout, canoe, kayak or powerboat in one of the many lakes, walk by wildowers in subalpine meadows, or hike along a canyon edge to revel in the sight of Helmcken Falls, more than twice as high as Niagara Falls. Guided tour operators offer horseback riding, river rafting, backcountry hiking and canoeing.
Facilities: 4 vehicle-accessible campgrounds totalling 164 sites; more than 100 boat-accessible sites
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK
British Columbias oldest provincial park encompasses more than 245,000 ha (605,408 ac) of rugged mountain wilderness. Bring binoculars to spot wildlife such as black bears, elk, deer, trumpeter swans, bald eagles and ptarmigan. Plan to boat, kayak, canoe and sh in Buttle Lake, and bring hiking gear to do either a short nature walk, or a longer trek along subalpine trails in the Forbidden Plateau area.
Facilities: 2 vehicle-accessible campgrounds totalling 160 sites; backcountry, wilderness and marine camping options available
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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YOHO, KOOTENAY & GLACIER NATIONAL PARKS
MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK
Boasting massive glaciers, lacy waterfalls and the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is
Three major national parks Yoho, Kootenay and Glacier offer magnicent mountain settings; hike to high points, relax in hot springs, sh a tranquil lake, get close to a glacier and bed down under starry skies.
>> CAMPING & PARKS

YUKON NWT
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PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK BIRKENHEAD LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK MANNING PROVINCIAL PARK PORPOISE BAY PROVINCIAL PARK MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK YOHO, KOOTENAY & GLACIER NATIONAL PARKS CHAMPION LAKES PROVINCIAL PARK BIG BAR LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK TWEEDSMUIR PROVINCIAL PARK MUNCHO LAKE & LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS PROVINCIAL PARKS NAIKOON PROVINCIAL PARK LAKELSE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
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ALASKA
BIRKENHEAD LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK

FORT ST. JOHN
Rugged mountain peaks and a pristine glacial lake provide the backdrop for great boating, hiking and shing. Daily and hourly canoe rentals are available for paddlers, or bring an inatable pool oat for relaxing on the lake. Take your camera especially in spring when you may spot mountain goats on slopes rising from the lake.
Facilities: More than 75 vehicle-accessible forest campsites; some high-density overow sites also available
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ALBERTA
MANNING PROVINCIAL PARK

VANCOUVER ISLAND
With 70,844 ha (175,059 ac) of forests, mountains, meadows, lakes and rivers, its no wonder more than 200 species of birds and 63 species of mammals can be found in this park.
CAMPBELL RIVER TOFINO
RADIUM HOT SPRINGS CANAL FLATS
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Camping & Parks contd:
Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Tourism BC/Albert Normandin
Peace River, Northern BC

Crystalline lakes, ancient fossils and one of Canadas highest waterfalls await visitors at Yoho National Park. Check out the colourful paint pots bright ochre beds once used by Aboriginal peoples for ceremonial purposes in Kootenay National Park. Visit Rogers Pass National Historic Site in Glacier National Park, where the transcontinental railway was constructed in 1884.
Facilities: 11 vehicle-accessible campgrounds totalling 755 sites, plus backcountry camping options, are available in the 3 parks
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TWEEDSMUIR PROVINCIAL PARK
British Columbias largest park 981,000 ha (2.4 million ac) is divided into north and south sections and has an awesome range of landforms including the red, orange, yellow and lavender Rainbow Range mountains. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts sh in lakes and rivers, go for a hike, view wildlife and enjoy a wilderness experience.
Facilities: 2 vehicle-accessible campgrounds in southern section of park totalling 36 sites; wilderness camping available
shipwreck, hike the extensive trail network, explore the unique bogs and dunes, and visit art galleries in the nearby village of Tlell or totem poles near Masset. The climate can be unpredictable; be prepared for wet conditions and fast-changing weather.
Facilities: More than 70 vehicle-accessible campsites; walk-in and wilderness camping available
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LAKELSE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
CHAMPION LAKES PROVINCIAL PARK
A chain of three lakes in the West Kootenays (near Trail) is perfect for paddling or swimming; Third Lake is one of the few warmwater lakes in the area. Hike or bike along the more than six km (four mi) of multi-use trails that link and loop around the lakes and stroll along boardwalks, marshes and lush, old-growth forest. Enjoy a quiet day of shing for rainbow trout only non-motorized boats are permitted on the lakes.
Facilities: 95 vehicle-accessible campsites

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MUNCHO LAKE & LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS PROVINCIAL PARKS

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Two must-see parks for those driving the Alaska Highway; they boast natural hot springs, unique geological formations, jade-coloured lakes and phenomenal wildlife viewing. Plan to end your day in the soothing waters of Liard River Hot Springs, one of the largest hot springs in Canada. Keep binoculars and a camera handy as wildlife sightings along this stretch of the Alaska Highway are almost guaranteed: Stones sheep, bison, moose, deer and bears are all possibilities.
Muncho Lake facilities: 30 vehicle-accessible campsites; wilderness and walk-in camping available Liard River Hot Springs facilities: 53 vehicleaccessible campsites
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Sandy beaches at Lakelse Lake make it a favourite picnic spot of both locals and visitors; jump in for a swim or sit back and cast a line for trout or Dolly Varden. Set up camp under towering, old-growth trees in this mountain-rimmed park near Terrace. Learn about the area through summer interpretive programs, and be sure to bring binoculars approximately 100 species of birds have been spotted here, including trumpeter swans.
Facilities: 156 vehicle-accessible campsites
BIG BAR LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
In the heart of Cariboo ranch country, this park is ideal for families and is a haven of pine and spruce forest surrounding the lake and scenic wetlands. Try for trout the lake is stocked annually and take the kids to nearby guest ranches to experience the open grasslands on horseback.
Facilities: 46 vehicle-accessible campsites (25 are lakeside); large picnic area
NAIKOON PROVINCIAL PARK
TRANSPORTATION
For information on transportation and maps, visit HelloBC.com/transportation
A unique and intriguing ecological reserve on the northeast tip of Graham Island, the largest of the Queen Charlotte Islands, is known for its seemingly endless beaches, rolling sand dunes, bogs and tidal pools. Stroll and beachcomb along 100 km (60 mi) of sandy beaches; see the remains of a 1928
PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: To make provincial campground reservations, call the Discover Camping reservation program at 1-800-689-9025 or visit www.discovercamping.ca. Campres may or may not be permitted, depending on the campground and if there is a campre ban in effect. In addition to provincial and national parks, Recreation Sites (located on Crown land) and private campgrounds provide many camping opportunities throughout the province. Recreational vehicles (RVs) are available for rent.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit HelloBC.com/parks or HelloBC.com/ camping or www.campingrvbc.com
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or
Peel down single-track trails, ride steep switchbacks or catch air BC is a mountain bike mecca. Whether freewheeling beside a dazzling lake or cycling through wine country, the options are limitless.
mountain biking & cycling
VANcOUVER ISLAND
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The Cumberland Trail network offers a perfect combination of natural and man-made features, including log rides, wooden ladder bridges, quick descents and fast berms. Beginners can take a ride on an old railway grade that provides great views of Comox Glacier and Mount Washington; advanced riders can brave Bear Buns, a descending trail featuring both high-speed riding and technical challenges.
Rating: Trails are available for all levels, but mostly intermediate to advanced
2 MOUNT WASHINGTON ALpINE RESORT
CUmbERLAND
Daredevils can head to a bevy of black diamond trails such as Helter Skelter for multi-challenges, while novices can do a loop on The Discovery Trail. While in this part of the Island, head to Strathcona Provincial Park for some great hiking, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing and more.
Rating: Easy to advanced
3 GALLOpING GOOSE REGIONAL TRAIL & COWIcHAN VALLEY RAIL TRAIL
Savour stunning ocean-to-alpine views on this famed mountain bike terrain just outside of Courtenay. Two high-speed chairlifts assist riders in accessing 35 kilometres (22 miles) of singletrack trails with more than 500 vertical metres (1,650 vertical feet).
Biking along old railway lines, youll pass farmland, a quiet cove and hidden lake, rocky outcrops, a Douglas-r forest, and marshes on the Galloping Goose. The 55-km (34-mi) trail starts in downtown Victoria and continues west to the community of Sooke. One of the most scenic parts of the Trans Canada Trail, the Cowichan Valley Rail Trail traverses rivers, valleys, forests, canyons, farmland and several trestles. Trail provides access to many small Cowichan Valley communities, freshwater lakes, bed and breakfasts, wineries, agricultural attractions, harvest festivals and other events.
Rating: Easy
Whistler Valley has more than 300 km (186 mi) of public off-road cycling trails ranging from at, paved paths to steep and gnarly ventures. Hop a lift to the famous Whistler Mountain Bike Park and nd over 200 km (124 mi) of trails, from gentle, banked cruising to tight and twisty challenges. Advanced riders shouldnt miss Comfortably Numb, a technically demanding, 24-km (15-mi) single-track challenge with 1,220 m (4,000 ft) of climbing in twisting switchbacks. Touring cyclists who love to cover distance can ride the classic 160-km (99-mi) WhistlerDArcy roundtrip. In August, watch world-class athletes rip up trails and down extreme vertical at Kokanee Crankworx, Whistlers freeride mountain bike festival. Thrill seekers who nd themselves in Whistler in warmer months can cool down on a great whitewater rafting, kayaking or ziplining adventure, then slip into the hot tub for a relaxing soak before an evening of dinner and dancing in the village.
WHISTLER
THOmpSON OKANAGAN
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VANcOUVER, cOAST & mOUNTAINS

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The Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada is renowned for its excellent cross-country, downhill and freeriding opportunities. Head to Alice Lake to play in a network of great cross-country trails. Hone your technique on the Diamond Head Trails, which offer demanding downhill and free-riding challenges. Some of the worlds best riders are drawn to Squamish every June for the Test of Metal, a 67-km (42-mi) race featuring 35 km (22 mi) of single track and over 1,200 m (3,937 ft) of climbing.
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SQUAmISH
Sun Peaks has been recognized as one of the continents ve best parks thanks to its 600 m (1,609 ft) of gravity-defying vertical. More than 70 km (43 mi) of lift-accessed trails featuring classic single track, owing machinemade and world-class downhill. Relax on a mountain-facing patio after your ride and enjoy the aprs scene, or play a round of golf on the resorts 18-hole course.
8 KETTLE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL/SpIRIT Of 2010 TRAIL
SUN PEAKS RESORT
Widely acclaimed as the birthplace of freeriding, the famed North Shore offers a bounty of trails high above Vancouver; inquire at local bike shops to nd out which trails permit biking. Go crazy on a great variety of knobby-wheel routes including Mount Seymours CBC Trail, one of the worlds iconic freerides.
Rating: Advanced
VANcOUVERS LOcAL MOUNTAINS
Pedal a gentle rise and fall on converted railway tracks that take you through forests and alongside lakes and vineyards this easy 2.2 per cent grade is ideal for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The historic Myra Canyon trestle bridges 18 in all are a highlight of the route. You can go for a few hours or a few days, enjoying time in bed and breakfasts and lakeside cabins. Plan time to visit vineyards or take the kids to a water park.
Rating: Easy
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Silver Star Resort includes everything from easy, paved paths that wind through subalpine forests to advanced runs like Rock Star, Double Dog and Pipe Dream that challenge thrill-seeking and highly technical junkies. Silver Star has hosted world-class downhill and
SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN RESORT
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Mount Washington Alpine Resort, Vancouver Island

Photo: Mount Washington Alpine Resort
North Vancouver, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Tourism BC/Marlene Ford
cross-country races for 14 years, and its famous wall rides and amazing handcrafted trails have made it a BC legend. Combine cycling with orchard and vineyard visits this region is a culinary utopia.
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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features and dirt jumps. Beginners can hone their skills on manicured trails protected by large berms. Once youve tackled Kicking Horse, expand your range by taking on the other trails in Golden: Mount 7 caters to downhill enthusiasts while the Moonraker and Dawn trail systems offer easier multi-use trails with stunning viewpoints.
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PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE
FERNIE ALPINE RESORT

For tips from travellers, visit HelloBC.com/blogs
With more than 100 km (62 mi) of varied terrain for riders of all abilities, this is one of Canadas premier mountain biking destinations. Two chairlifts access 37 runs, ranging from smooth and easy dirt tracks to downhill single track to steep trails and stunts. Among the many services, check out the women-only clinic and camps for kids. Brush up your skills with a private lesson.
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TRAVEL TIPS
This mountainside village near Invermere has something for everybody among its 15 dedicated trails. Thrill seekers head to Crazytrain, Panoramas signature run; novice riders and families cruise Valley Trail, a paved path that loops around the village. End your day in a lively pub, upscale restaurant or friendly cafe, but dont miss out on a soak in the hot pools.
>> MOUNTAIN BIKING & CYCLING
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CUMBERLAND MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT GALLOPING GOOSE REGIONAL TRAIL & COWICHAN VALLEY RAIL TRAIL SQUAMISH VANCOUVERS LOCAL MOUNTAINS WHISTLER SUN PEAKS RESORT KETTLE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL/SPIRIT OF 2010 TRAIL SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN RESORT FERNIE ALPINE RESORT GOLDEN TRIANGLE KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE SEVEN SUMMITS TRAIL AND ROSSLAND 108 MILE RANCH TRAILS SPRUCE LAKE PROTECTED AREA WILLIAMS LAKE PRINCE GEORGE
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YUKON NWT
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GOLDEN TRIANGLE
ALASKA
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FORT NELSON
A must-pedal for two-wheeler acionados, this route features superb road touring in a gorgeous mountain setting. This 315-km (195-mi) route between Radium Hot Springs, Golden and Lake Louise takes you through the Kicking Horse Pass and across the Great Divide twice. Train well, then gear up and work those legs this road is worth it for the spectacular rest stops that reward you with views of countless glaciers, canyons, mountains and waterfalls.
Rating: Advanced (all-road course with steep climbs and descents)
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PORT HARDY
WILLIAMS LAKE
KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT
Take off on one of the longest verticals in North America (1,128 m/3,700 ft) and be continually challenged on 27 trails at this steep-sided resort near Golden. Experienced riders can choose from eight black-diamond trails punctuated by rocks, wood
100 MILE HOUSE
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GOLD BRIDGE
GOLDEN
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KAMLOOPS
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Mountain Biking & Cycling contd:

14 SEVEN SUmmITS TRAIL AND ROSSLAND
Rated Trail of the Year in 2007 by Bike Magazine, the Seven Summits trail is one of the most sought-after cross-country/all-mountain rides in North America. Awarded the coveted Epic Ride status by the International Mountain Bike Association, this sweeping 30 km (19 mi) of rolling single track takes riders on challenging climbs through alpine meadows and crests to spectacular views of seven mountain peaks. There is also a high level of riding among the hundreds of kilometres of trails around the town of Rossland many along old wagon roads, rail grades and pack trails solidify the areas claim as Mountain Bike Capital of Canada.
Rating: Advanced

Follow wide, smooth trails with moderate slopes through open meadows, beneath forest cover and over the regions legendary rolling hills. There are over 150 km (93 mi) of marked trails in the vicinity of 108 Mile Ranch. Resorts, lodges and guest ranches offer everything from golf to horseback riding as well as some of the worlds best freshwater shing.
Rating: Easy to intermediate
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MILE RANcH TRAILS
Razorback Mountain, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

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SPRUCE LAKE PROTECTED AREA
This protected area features 160 km (99 mi) of multi-use trails through wilderness terrain that includes mid-elevation grasslands, subalpine and alpine meadows, pristine lakes and mountain peaks. For a good warm-up, pedal along Gun Creek Trail, a moderate ride that follows a creek and includes an optional tour of Spruce Lake; for a workout, head to the High Trail, a technically demanding route running 20 km (12 mi) one-way with elevation gains of about 1,000 m (3,281 ft). As you pedal, watch for grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mule deer and wolverine. Float plane service is available to mountain bikers into the Spruce Lake area, as well as bike rentals, maps and guides.
Rating: Intermediate to advanced
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technically challenging single-track. Take a break from biking to horseback ride, hike, river raft or freshwater sh.

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PRINCE GEORGE
WILLIAMS LAKE
A network of world-class mountain biking trails awaits; many are easily accessed from town. Jimmys Fox Trail offers a 15-km (9.3-mi) roundtrip stretch of moderate to advanced single-track riding with great views along the way. The South Side and West Side trail networks extend across the plateau above Williams Lake and range from easy double track to expert single track. Advanced riders head out of town to De Sous Mountain to tackle nine trails, most of which are
This centrally located northern city offers a wonderful network of urban and rural trails, the latter leading to nearby wilderness around the Fraser and Nechako rivers. Start on the Otway Nordic Trails fast, singletrack and gravel trails that vary in difculty from easy to advanced and connect to the scenic 22-km (13.7-mi) Cranbrook Hill Greenway Trail to arrive at the University of Northern British Columbia and Forests for the World. Families enjoy the 11-km (6.8-mi) Heritage River Trail System, a scenic loop around the city. The LC Gunn Trail is a meandering rustic route above the banks of the Fraser River.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Thompson Okanagan
Weeklong vacations often combine biking with kayaking, hiking and even wine tasting. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Bicycle helmets are mandatory in BC. Respect the environment, stay on designated trails and practise good safety sense. Resort bike park rules vary, but full-face helmets are mandatory at most parks and body armour is highly recommended for all advanced trails.
GUIDED TOURS: Let someone else arrange the gear, routes and food; relax knowing you can hop in a support vehicle if you wish. Truck, van or helicopter assistance transports you up steep terrain to enjoy cycling in remote areas.

Visit HelloBC.com/biking or HelloBC.com/cycling
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Spot a moose foraging with its young, catch a glimpse of a bear shing in a stream, or spy the spiral horns of a male bighorn sheep all possible BC moments.
wildlife viewing
VANcOUVER ISLAND
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An easily accessible green space with excellent services and plenty of opportunities to mingle with nature and spot wildlife. Black bears, cougar and deer make their home in the park, as well as smaller animals like beavers, otters, raccoons, mink and squirrels. Thousands of chum salmon return to spawn every year and can be viewed from riverside platforms. Best time is late October to December. Park naturalists and interactive displays are available at the Visitor Centre. There is also a large picnic area with shelters.
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GOLDSTREAm PROVINcIAL PARK
Bald Eagle, Queen Charlotte Islands, Northern BC
Bighorn Sheep, Thompson Okanagan
With dense wilderness punctuated by dazzling blue-green inlets, estuaries and rivers, the Great Bear Rainforest is one of the worlds most spectacular grizzly bear habitats. Cruising by boat in spring, view grizzly moms and cubs chewing on sedge grass along the waters
KNIGHT INLET & SmITH INLET
edge; in late summer and fall, watch from a viewing platform as bears feast on salmon. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides skilled at locating the areas grizzly bears. During the peak fall season its not uncommon to see between 6 and 24 (or more) individual bears during a two- or three-day tour. Also see black bears, black-tailed deer, harbour seals, river otters, beavers, humpback whales, bald eagles and a variety of other birds. Arrive either by oat plane or boat from northeast Vancouver Island to stay in a oating lodge.
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this unforgettable activity is available year-round. Along with a guide, explore the shallow waters around Snake Island, home to approximately 200 harbour seals and countless marine birds and eagles. Discover the different varieties of starsh, anemones and kelp forests that surround the island close encounters with marine life are guaranteed! VANcOUVER, cOAST & mOUNTAINS
4 BRAcKENDALE EAGLES pROVINcIAL pARK
Come face to face with a friendly harbour seal while snorkelling at this sanctuary near Nanaimo;
SNAKE ISLAND BIRD SANcTUARY
From December to mid-January take a guided tour on foot, by river raft or on horseback to view hundreds of bald eagles that come to feast on spawning salmon on the banks of the Squamish River. A record 3,769 eagles were once spotted here in a single day. The town of Brackendale is on the scenic Seato-Sky Highway and also offers excellent hiking, biking and whitewater rafting opportunities.
5 GEORGE C. REIfEL MIGRATORY BIRD SANcTUARY
One of Canadas top sites for easy birding as more than 280 species of birds have been recorded in the wetlands, marshes and low dykes that make up this sanctuary. Walk the network of paths or climb the twostorey viewing tower to spot sandhill cranes, Canada geese, snow geese, black-crowned night herons, saw-whet owls and many other species. In the fall, the Fraser-Skagit ock of lesser snow geese about 30,000 birds arrive here travelling south on their long journey from Russias Wrangel Island. Spring is an ideal time to witness nesting activity and to view hawks, eagles, hummingbirds and warblers.
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Both Kilby Provincial Park on the Harrison River and the Weaver Creek Spawning Channel offer viewings of wildlife and sh. Between early November and late January some 1,000 bald eagles arrive to feed on spawning salmon. Trumpeter swans are seen during the winter months. From early October to early November, the 20
HARRISON MILLS
Weaver Creek Spawning Channel is one of the best sites in BC to observe pink, chum and brightred sockeye salmon as they deposit their eggs. While in the area, visit Harrison Hot Springs and soak in a rich mineral bath; go boating, windsurng or waterskiing on popular Harrison Lake; and take an easy hike or nature walk in Sasquatch Provincial Park.
A mineral lick beside Highway 93 is a good place to spot ungulates (hoofed animals such as bighorn sheep). Immerse yourself in mountain scenery and hot mineral water at Radium Hot Springs; while youre soaking, look up to check for bighorn sheep climbing the canyon walls.
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tour, always watchful for the elusive Kermode bear, found only in BCs Central Coast area. The best chance to see a Kermode bear is during salmon spawning season in September. The island and surrounding waters are also home to black and grizzly bears, wolves, deer, Orcas, humpback whales, Steller sea lions, sea otters and bald eagles. This extremely remote area of BC is only accessible by boat or oat plane.
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BELLA COOLA VALLEY ALASKA HIGHWAY
RODERICK HAIG-BROWN PROVINCIAL PARK
Every four years, two million sockeye salmon return in October to spawn in a spectacular display that can be witnessed from trails along the world-famous Adams River this is one of the largest sockeye salmon runs in North America. A Salute to the Sockeye celebration takes place during peak run years, the next one being in 2010, however, salmon can still be viewed here during non-peak years. Wildlife is abundant see numerous birds, bears, deer, beaver, otter and mink; during the salmon run hundreds of eagles congregate.
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A large population of grizzly bears lives in the pristine Bella Coola Valley and nearby Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, making this a great location for bear watching. Book a bear-watching tour with a local guide and silently drift down the river in a raft to see bears from water-level as they sh for pink and Chinook salmon. Or, snorkel with salmon on a raft-supported trip on the Atnarko River. No experience is necessary, all equipment is provided, and a sheries biologist enlightens you along the way.
The area of Highway 97 between Fort Nelson and Liard River has been called the Serengeti of the North for its copious opportunities to view wildlife in the northern Rocky Mountains. In summer you can see Stones sheep, caribou and black bears, so keep your camera ready. Herds of bison are often spotted grazing on the tall grass along the sides of the highway; the many marshes are year-round habitat for moose.
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KHUTZEYMATEEN GRIZZLY BEAR SANCTUARY
PRINCESS ROYAL ISLAND
VASEUX LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
The dusky bluffs above Highway 97 between Oliver and Okanagan Falls are home to bighorn sheep; spring and fall are the best viewing times. The park is a birders paradise trails lead to a migratory bird sanctuary where you see trumpeter swans, blue-winged teal, wood ducks and much more in this region that hosts a number of seldom-seen bird species, such as the white-headed woodpecker. This protected haven for wildlife also boasts mountain goats, beavers, deer, muskrats, rabbits and turtles, as well as rarities such as the night snake, badger and pallid bat.
A truly magical wilderness with ancient trees and wind-swept beaches that are home to the Kermode bear, a rare and little-known subspecies of black bear also known as the Spirit bear because of its white colour. Fly in to a oating lodge, sign up for a kayak trip that will land you on hidden-away white sand beaches, or sail the coastline on a ship-based
A spectacular wilderness valley where grizzly bears are protected. Land access is prohibited within the sanctuary; however, controlled viewing from the water is permitted. There are an estimated 50 grizzlies living in the area. Also keep watch for wolves, Orcas, seals, beavers and more than 100 species of birds. Charter a boat or book a multi-day eco-tour on a sailboat for prime wildlife sightings.
>> WILDLIFE VIEWING
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GOLDSTREAM PROVINCIAL PARK KNIGHT INLET & SMITH INLET SNAKE ISLAND BIRD SANCTUARY BRACKENDALE EAGLES PROVINCIAL PARK GEORGE C. REIFEL MIGRATORY BIRD SANCTUARY HARRISON MILLS RODERICK HAIG-BROWN PROVINCIAL PARK VASEUX LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK CRESTON VALLEY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA KOOTENAY NATIONAL PARK BELLA COOLA VALLEY PRINCESS ROYAL ISLAND ALASKA HIGHWAY KHUTZEYMATEEN GRIZZLY BEAR SANCTUARY QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS
YUKON NWT
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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CRESTON VALLEY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
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FORT NELSON
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One of BCs largest wildlife management areas, these rich wetlands support a huge variety of animal and bird life. Slip through the marsh in a naturalist-guided canoe tour to look for herons, moose, turtles and other creatures. Visit the interpretation centre, take part in nature programs, use spotting scopes and enjoy displays; on-site naturalists are a wealth of information. Explore on your own by walking or biking the 32 kilometres (20 miles) of dyke trails be sure to take binoculars up to one of the viewing towers.
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RADIUM HOT SPRINGS
Pay close attention while driving through Kootenay National Park alert visitors may spot elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats or bears.
CAMPBELL RIVER
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Wildlife Viewing contd:

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QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS
Lush rainforests, seemingly endless beaches and some of Canadas best wildlife-viewing sites are found on these mystical isles, also known as Haida Gwaii. On these islands that have been called Canadas Galapagos live the largest black bears in North America, sometimes seen strolling along the highway. En route from Queen Charlotte City to Masset, look for Sitka deer, a small, black-tailed species; at dawn and dusk they feed on grassy clearings beside the highway. Eagles are common sightings; often dozens will be seen at a time in spring, particularly during low tides as they feed on clams and cockles. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Do not feed wildlife. View animals from a safe distance. Consider a guided tour, both for safety and the best viewing. Pull well off the road when viewing wildlife or photographing scenery.
BC is the place for those who seek vertical landscapes soaring walls, awesome overhangs, granite spires and challenging chimneys. Some climbers say there isnt a better place in the world for the phenomenal opportunities found in BCs dozens of mountain ranges. ROCK CLIMBING GRADE SYSTEM: The North American rock climbing grading system is: Level 1.0 is considered hiking; roped climbs begin at Level 5.0. Levels 5.0 to 5.7 are for novices. Levels 5.8 to 5.11 require previous climbing experience. Levels 5.12 to 5.15 are for advanced climbers.
rock climbing & mountaineering
and all 19 crags are within walking distance of the parking lot. Between Sluice Wall and Joint Wall there are more than a dozen bolted routes. Plan several days here to enjoy some of the other activities that include hiking, camping, canoeing and kayaking.

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SQUAMISH
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK

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DRIVING ROUTES
For road trip ideas, see pages 6465 or visit HelloBC.com/drive
This park is home to Vancouver Islands highest and most impressive peaks. The Crest Creek Crags climbing area offers more than 150 climbing routes on 19 rock faces perched above Crest Lake. Climbs range in height from 9 to 30 metres (30 to 100 feet); most are rated 5.8 to 5.13. The climbing area is easily accessible by car,
The towering 700-m (2,297-ft) granite cliffs of the Stawamus Chief are a premier North American climbing site; The Chief is the second-largest granite monolith in the world and features big wall climbing, bouldering, multi-pitch and sportclimbing. For an iconic BC climb, conquer the Stawamus Chiefs Grand Wall, a 500-m (1,640-ft) rock face with more than 50 routes. Practise on the Smoke Bluffs, a series of 20 smaller cliffs right in Squamish; they feature hundreds of routes from leisurely ascents to expert roof climbs. Murrin Lake Provincial Park is a popular climbing destination with roughly 250 diverse routes ranging from easy to expert. Take a guided trip or treat yourself to a helicopter ride into the Tantalus Range (between Squamish and Whistler) to be challenged by high, rugged peaks.
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VANCOUVER
Located in West Vancouver, Lighthouse Parks Juniper Point offers scenic oceanfront climbing just minutes from downtown Vancouver. Great climbing for beginner and intermediate climbers; test a variety of routes or try bouldering with the Pacic Ocean at your back. Hike through old-growth forest and enjoy breathtaking views across the Pacic Ocean to Vancouver.
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WHISTLER
Tantalus Traverse, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Photo: Chris Joseph/British Columbia Photos
Been there, climbed that? Then take a guided tour of Whistler Mountains summit that combines glacier hiking with rock climbing. Guides lead guests to Via Ferrata Italian for Iron Way a vertical pathway made of metal ladder rungs; climbers are attached to xed cables for safety. At the peak, climbers are rewarded with outstanding panoramas of seemingly endless mountains and glaciers. No prior climbing experience or special skills are required for this moderate activity.
Mountains between Golden and Radium Hot Springs. Pit your skills against daunting facades offering skill-testing climbs over glaciers and long, complex descents with multiple rappels. The Bugaboos are in a remote wilderness area and should only be attempted by experienced climbers. Weather conditions can change rapidly and lightning storms are common in summer.
Rating: Advanced
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Experienced mountaineers can book guided ascents to several glaciated peaks, including The President (3,138 m/10,295 ft), The Vice President (3,066 m/10,058 ft), Mount MacArthur (3,021 m/9,911 ft) and Isolated Peak (2,845 m/9,334 ft). Plan time to visit some of the parks natural wonders: Takakkaw Falls, one of Canadas highest waterfalls; Emerald and OHara lakes deep turquoise in colour from the silt carried down from glaciers; and the Burgess Shale, which contains exquisitely preserved, 505-million-year-old fossils.
MOUNT ROBSON
YOHO NATIONAL PARK
The highest peak (3,954 m/12,972 ft) in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson is an advanced mountaineering-style climb that attracts climbers from around the world. With its summit massif towering above every other peak, the climb is a classic, with challenging glaciers on the approach, a demanding ice face and a twisting, sculpted snow ridge leading to the spacious summit. Extensive mountaineering experience is required for this guided, demanding excursion, including glacier travel and climbing steep snow and ice.
Rating: Advanced
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Located on the rugged western slopes of the Canadian Rockies, Yohos awe-inspiring landscape features rivers, waterfalls, ice elds, deep forests, steep rock walls and snow-capped peaks 28 of them reach heights of more than 3,000 m (9,843 ft).

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MARBLE CANYON PROVINCIAL PARK
Located between Cache Creek and Lillooet, this climbing area is a maze of limestone canyons
>> ROCK CLIMBING & MOUNTAINEERING

YUKON NWT
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FORT NELSON
STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK SQUAMISH VANCOUVER WHISTLER MOUNT ROBSON SKAHA BLUFFS BUGABOO PROVINCIAL PARK YOHO NATIONAL PARK MARBLE CANYON PROVINCIAL PARK WILLIAMS LAKE TERRACE
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SKAHA BLUFFS
The premier climbing destination in the Thompson Okanagan features more than 800 known routes on a series of cliffs overlooking the city of Penticton. Exhilarate in scaling cliffs towering up to 80 m (240 ft); the routes range from 5.6 to 5.13 and feature many beginner and intermediate-friendly routes. After a day on the cliffs, relax in the warm waters of Skaha Lake, tour one of the many wineries and fruit stands or take a cycling tour outdoor opportunities abound.
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CACHE CREEK KAMLOOPS
GOLDEN
BUGABOO PROVINCIAL PARK
For more than 100 years, adventurous climbers have been lured to these towering granite spires (some exceeding 3,000 m/9,843 ft) in the Purcell
CAMPBELL RIVER
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WHISTLER KELOWNA
ALBERTA
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CRANBROOK
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Rock Climbing & Mountaineering contd:

with easy access to dozens of climbs. Climbers revel in these limestone formations since they are relatively rare for BC, and the parks terrain is different from the nearby granite-based Coast Mountains. Climbers can enjoy 60 routes in 11 areas; the spire of Chimney Rock is a particularly awe-inspiring geological formation. Take a dip in one of the parks three inviting lakes, or walk through an ice-carved canyon that traces geological history over millions of years. Hike to a picturesque waterfall that, in winter, becomes one of the regions most accessible icefalls idyllic for ice climbers.
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WILLIAMS LAKE
Climbing enthusiasts are lured to this westernstyle city by three great climbing spots. The popular Esler Bluffs feature 44 routes, from slabs to overhangs, with many ranging from 5.5 to 5.11. Look for faded pictographs on the pocketed limestone of Alkali Bluff, where eight climbs range mainly from 5.7 to 5.11. Moon Road Bluff is a low limestone crag whose eight routes offer great views and range from 5.6 to 5.11.
Skaha Bluffs, Thompson Okanagan
Photo: Tourism BC/Don Weixl
Located near town, the 350-m (1,148-ft) face of Copper Mountain is popular with climbers for its accessibility and versatile climbing area. Onion Lake is another hot spot thanks to easy access, and the Tyee bluff climbing area, located about 100 km (60 mi) west of Terrace on Highway 16, offers advanced climbers long, challenging routes on overhanging granite. Northern BC tempts the adventurous with a wealth of undeveloped and unclimbed rock. Driving Highway 16 between Terrace and Prince Rupert reveals numerous 200-m (656-ft) cliffs and many smaller bluffs, all with great climbing potential. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, this area offers plenty of other backcountry adventures, including shing, hiking, canoeing, rafting and wildlife viewing watch for the legendary white Kermode (Spirit) bear.
GUIDED TOURS: Enjoy trips ranging from day climbs to multi-day mountaineering tours. Equipment and instruction, if needed, is provided on guided tours. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: BCs topographical features are unique, so climb only with a certied mountain guide familiar with the demands of the local terrain. Rock climbing is a high-risk sport that demands strength, stamina and the safe use of technical climbing equipment.
TRAVEL TIPS

Visit HelloBC.com/rockclimbing
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
Highland House B&B Country Inn

Enjoy all 4 seasons at our peaceful retreat on 25 acres, riding at our equestrian training center or hunting or shing on countless lakes with spectacular views. Snowmobiling, ATVing and x-country trails abound. Escape to Highland House. 1-250-523-2766 Logan Lake, BC www.highlandhouse.ca
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Wake up to the fragrance of freshly cut hay, chow down on a hearty breakfast, then join the cowboys as they saddle up and spend the day riding the range or herding cattle.
horseback riding & guest ranches
Your holiday activities can include horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, y-shing, river rafting, golng and visiting natural hot springs.

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VANcOUVER ISLAND
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The Island offers a panoply of settings and scenery: take in panoramic views while riding through valleys and alongside farms and vineyards; enjoy lake and riverside trails, or gallop across long, sandy beaches. Ride the Galloping Goose Regional Trail for canyon views along the Sooke Potholes or hug the rocky coastline along the Sooke Basin with views of the Olympic Mountains and Juan de Fuca Strait. Take in everything the area has to offer: vineyard tours and tastings at award-winning wineries, delicious, locally made cheeses, and fresh seafood from the seaside community of Cowichan Bay. VANcOUVER, cOAST & mOUNTAINS
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SOUTHEAST VANcOUVER ISLAND
In winter, join a day trip from Squamish to witness the seasons greatest spectacle hundreds of bald eagles feeding on spawning salmon at rivers edge. The area is renowned for its variety of outdoor activities, including river rafting, rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking.
THOmpSON OKANAGAN
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East of Vancouver, BCs longest river cuts through a broad, fertile valley, anked by the Coast and Cascade mountain ranges, en route to the Pacic Ocean. Take a guided or self-guided expedition by horseback on extensive park trails, riverside paths and through backcountry. Golden Ears Provincial Park offers more than 20 kilometres (12 miles) of gravel and dirt horse trails, or follow the Matsqui Dyke Trail that boasts sweeping views of the Coast Mountains. Experienced backcountry adventurers can follow historic trails in Manning Provincial Park, one of which is the Pacic Crest Trail, stretching 4,265 km (2,650 mi) from Mexico to Manning Park. Explore the Fraser Valleys other attractions take a self-guided Circle Farm Tour, visit wineries, camp out at a provincial park and sign up for a whitewater rafting adventure.
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MIGHTY FRASER COUNTRY
Sagebrush-adorned hillsides, spectacular cerulean skies and ne guest ranches that cater to wannabe cowhands or experienced riders. The area has one of the warmest and sunniest climates in Canada and is home to Canadas largest working cattle ranch. Choose a ranch where you can canoe and go shing, or opt for the luxury of a spa treatment after a trail ride.
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CAcHE CREEK, ASHcROfT & MERRITT
A land of rolling hills and canyons, Gold Rush history and vast cattle ranches; guest ranches range from rustic to opulent, and from familyfriendly to riding the range unaccompanied. Saddle up in the epitome of ranch country with expansive rolling hills, vast, open grasslands, mixed forests and hidden away lakes. Enjoy sunny skies and a dry climate while you spot moose, bears, deer, wolves and bighorn sheep. Go shing there are more than a hundred lakes within an hours drive from each other along Highway 24, dubbed The Fishing Highway.
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SOUTH CARIbOO
Ride the banks of the Clearwater River, overlook the Clearwater River Valley from trails along rocky bluffs and dismount for a short hike to see Moul Falls. Mount a horse in Wells Gray Provincial Park for an easy afternoon trail ride or a multi-day pack trip into seldom-seen backcountry; there are well-marked trails and guided excursions for all levels. View hoodoos unique lava rock formations from the saddle, or combine horseback riding with a whitewater rafting trip on the Clearwater River.
CLEARWATER
Ride the untamed wilderness of the beautiful and mountainous terrain of the Chilcotin. These horse trails were once used by explorers, pioneers and gold miners. Immerse yourself in the cowboy lifestyle awaken to the smell of fresh coffee, breathe crisp mountain air and hear cowboy poetry around the campre on an overnight or multiday pack trip; this region is renowned for its authentic western dude ranches. Spot grizzly bears, wolves, bighorn sheep, moose and eagles on a guided horseback safari; or join a camp-based excursion, geared to both novice and expert riders. Pan for gold, hear the stories of claims found and fortunes lost, sh in clear lakes, gear up for hikes or hit the mountain bike trails this terrain is made for adventure.
SOUTH CHILcOTIN MOUNTAINS
KOOTENAY ROcKIES
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NORTHERN bRITISH cOLUmbIA

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Outtters offer day trips through secluded forest trails, along the edges of lakes and across grassy meadows.
SQUAmISH, WHISTLER & PEmbERTON
Breathe in the fragrance of pine and keep a lookout for elk, deer, mountain goats, moose and black bears as you ride through spectacular mountain scenery with panoramic views. Choose your comfort level with accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to private log cabins.
PURcELL & ROcKY MOUNTAINS
A landscape of glacier-draped peaks, alpine valleys and major wetlands so rich in wildlife it is known as The Serengeti of the North. It remains one of the best places on earth to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Saddle up for a single-day ride or a multi-day wilderness trip that includes shing, canoeing,
MUSKWA-KEcHIKA MANAGEmENT AREA
Potato Range, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

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Horseback Riding & Guest Ranches contd:

rides, ice skating, dogsledding and crosscountry skiing. Meals, riding and other activities are typically included in one xed price. Herd cattle with experienced cowhands, feed farm animals, load hay and milk the cows at a working ranch. Go on a unique, multi-day pack trip in the wilderness; on pack trips, pack horses carry your camp and personal gear. Take a guided tour where riders and horses are carefully matched, and riders are grouped according to their ability level. Or, for a do-it-yourself day trip, rent horses on an hourly basis from riding stables. RODEOS: Exciting annual rodeos include the Anahim Lake Rodeo and Williams Lake Stampede, as well as the Bella Coola Rodeo (Cariboo Chilcotin Coast), the Cloverdale Rodeo (Vancouver, Coast & Mountains), the Luxton Pro Rodeo (Vancouver Island), Cranbrook Pro Rodeo (Kootenay Rockies), the Falkland Stampede, the Armstrong and Keremeos Elks rodeos (Thompson Okanagan), and the Kispiox Valley Rodeo (Northern British Columbia).
Echo Valley Ranch and Spa, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

Photo: Echo Valley Ranch and Spa
camping and wildlife viewing; camp outdoors or bed down in a rustic cabin or a luxurious wilderness lodge. Be prepared for rugged terrain that is home to moose, caribou, Stones sheep, elk, bison, mountain goats, wolves and grizzly bears.
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SPATSIZI PLATEAU WILDERNESS PROVINCIAL PARK
Explore some of the 695,000 hectares (1,717,382 acres) of this vast park that is one of Canadas richest and most remote wildlife reserves. Ride a sure-footed horse in extreme backcountry, expect to view wildlife such as mountain goats, moose, caribou, Stones sheep, grizzly and black bears, wolves, beavers and marmots, and enjoy creature comforts at a wilderness lodge at days end.
Combine several adventure dreams as you bed down in a log cabin one night and sleep under the stars the next. Reach high alpine ridges on a trail ride and go y-shing and canoeing the same day. Guided lodge-based tours cater to both families and seasoned backcountry enthusiasts. A letter of permission is required from BC Parks for self-guided entry with horses. Self-guided trips are for experienced backcountry travellers only.
PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Many guest ranches are multi-adventure resorts that offer shing, glacier ightseeing, hiking, mountain biking, river rafting even gold panning. Some dude ranches are open in winter for the magical experiences of horse-drawn sleigh
Visit HelloBC.com/horsebackriding or www.bcguestranches.com
The rst time, its vacation. After that, its coming home.
Just 4 hours north of Vancouver 1-800-553-3533 www.sundanceguestranch.com saddleup@sundanceguestranch.com
Sundance Guest Ranch 1
11/4/08 3:42:38 PM
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Discover a world etched by time and garnished with stalactites, stalagmites and glittering crystalline formations. BC beckons spelunkers from novice to expert, with more than 1,000 caves on Vancouver Island alone.
caving
UPANA CAVES RECREATION AREA
A cluster of nearly 100 caves near Gold River with 15 known entrances and 450 metres (1,476 feet) of passages. Meander through a series of passages and enter rooms on your own or on an organized tour.
Rating: Easy
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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HORNE LAKE CAVES PROVINCIAL PARK
CODY CAVES PROVINCIAL PARK
Explore two caves on a guided or self-guided excursion and a third that can only be visited with a guide. Hear the sound of an underground waterfall as you view crystalline formations and fossils in these mostly undeveloped caves. A ve-hour guided expedition in Riverbend Cave, one of the best-decorated caves in Canada, involves ropes, harnesses and vertical caving techniques.
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An ancient network formed over the last 65 million years and discovered in the 1890s, these wild, undeveloped caverns and corridors are only accessible by guided tour. Follow your guide along hundreds of metres to see crusty calcite stalactites, stalagmites and soda straws, and listen to the echo of the underground stream.
Cody Caves Provincial Park, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Kevin Stanway
LITTLE HUSON CAVE REGIONAL PARK
Easily accessible caves suitable for beginner spelunkers. Navigate sinkholes, canyons and large arches. View the unique rock bridge that spans the river owing from Little Huson Lake as it weaves its way through the cave.
Rating: Easy
GUIDED TOURS: Cave preservation is paramount; join a caving tour and learn about the formations from an expert. Instruction is provided, along with hard hats, ashlights and other required safety equipment. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Please dont touch careless touching within
the caves can destroy these ancient, fragile environments. A helmet, suitable clothing and multiple light sources are a must if youre going exploring on your own.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ACCOMMODATIONS
Visit Caving Canada at www.cancaver.ca
For accommodations, visit HelloBC.com/accommodations
HelloBC.com 27
Soar high above the land and feel the freedom that comes with gliding. This is as close as you get to having wings, and its your chance to discover the natural beauty of BC from the air. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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hang-gliding & paragliding
There are also paragliding lessons and tandem instructional rides with qualied instructors.
FRASER VALLEY
The consistent thermal updrafts around Hope, Agassiz and Bridal Falls offer plenty of opportunities to ride the wind.
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KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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ROCKY MOUNTAINS
GROUSE MOUNTAIN
Jump off Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver and soar through the air with a guide. Catch the currents and enjoy the glide as you slowly descend to Cleveland Park at the base of the mountain.
For more than 20 years the Mount 7 ying site in Golden has hosted pilots from across North America and around the world. Noted for incredible thermal conditions, Mount 7 and the Columbia Valley provide excellent cross-country ight opportunities. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Hang gliding and paragliding are inherently dangerous, high-risk activities, and should only be undertaken by experienced pilots with adequate training and equipment. Tandem ights with a certied instructor are less risky and are a good introduction to the sport.
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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VERNON
Myriad ying sites, many within a few minutes of each other, make it possible to soar above large lakes, sandy beaches and the golden hillsides of the Okanagan Valley; this is prime soaring country. Smooth, strong lifts are great for racing, and light winds are good for beginner cross-country pilots.
Visit the BC Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association at www.bchpa.ca
Jumpstart your adventure with a freefall dive into the depths of a canyon, or harness yourself to a series of suspended cables for a high-speed ight through the treetops.
ziplining & bungee jumping
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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NANAIMO
Experience the ultimate adrenalin rush at North Americas rst legal bungee jumping location. From a bridge over the Nanaimo River, step off a platform and drop 56 metres (143 feet) toward the water, then return about threequarters of that height before dipping down to a stop. You can opt to be dipped into the river or to jump in tandem with a buddy. Other thrills on site include a high-speed swing and exhilarating ziplines. Recently added is an aerial tree course: Five obstacle courses four for adults and one for kids aged 7 to 13 are set high in Douglasr trees at heights ranging from 3 to 15 m (10 50 ft). Have fun on suspended bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets, climbing walls and ziplines.
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SOOKE
Learn about nature rst-hand as you zip through a majestic West Coast rainforest at speeds of up to 60 kilometres (37 miles) per hour or walk on suspension bridges high among giant trees. 28
Ziplining near Whistler, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Tourism BC/Toshi Kawano
Experience the Sooke Hills up close as you traverse two suspension bridges and ride eight scenic ziplines ranging from 50 m (150 ft) to an incredible 330 m (1,000 ft). After a day of soaring and exploring, try lunch or dinner at the world-famous Sooke Harbour House Restaurant or explore Victorias copious dining options. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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REVELSTOKE
WHISTLER
Glide above whitewater and temperate rainforest between Blackcomb and Whistler mountains on 10 progressive zipline rides. The ziplines increase in height and length and are joined by a network of boardwalks and trails, as well as stairways and bridges in the tree canopy; the highest zipline is 55 m (180 ft) above the valley oor and the longest spans 610 m (2,000 ft). Tours last about 2.5 to 3 hours for ve zipline rides, depart from Blackcomb Mountain, and run year-round in almost all weather conditions. Along the way, learn about Whistlers local ecology and ancient forests from naturalists. For more thrills, sign up for bungee jumping and take the 49-m (160-ft) plunge toward the Cheakamus River.
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Challenge yourself on a high ropes course that includes ziplines located midway between Sicamous and Revelstoke. Climb from tree to tree on ladders, nets, bridges and swinging logs, or even a sliding skateboard suspended in the air between trees. The three courses increase in height and difculty as they progress. Along the route, glide across seven ziplines between platforms 4 to 12 m (13 to 39 ft) above the forest oor. A special course is designed for kids (aged ve years or older) who can be cheered on by friends or family walking on designated trails below. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Contact the operator for details about weight and age restrictions. Guides will provide you with safety information and training. Bring weather-appropriate clothing; it can be cool and windy on the bridge or platform. For ziplining, wear close-toed shoes and tie back long hair. It is highly recommended to book your bungee or ziplining adventure in advance.
GROUSE MOUNTAIN
Zip through the air at speeds of up to 80 km (50 mi) per hour on a ve-line zipline circuit high above the city of Vancouver. Along the way, learn about indigenous ora and fauna and their signicance to Aboriginal peoples.

Visit HelloBC.com
TRAVEL TIPS
TRANSPORTATION
HelloBC.com 29
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
Sink into steamy, silty, mineral-infused water believed to have curative powers. Some are hidden away while others are surrounded by deluxe amenities either way, the soak is sublime.
hot springs
Clearwater River Chalet

Choose from 2 secluded handcrafted log cabins, located 3 km apart on 300 acres of private property adjacent to Wells Gray Park. Enjoy hiking on 30 kms of scenic trails, wildlife viewing, nature photography and shing. Spectacular waterfalls nearby. 1-800-667-9552 www.riverchalet.com
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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HOT SPRINGS COVE
Clearwater River Chalet.indd 1
VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS 9/30/09
Travel by boat or oat plane from Tono to the remote and magical Maquinna Marine Provincial Park; then follow a 2-kilometre (1.2-mile) cedar plank boardwalk through old-growth rainforest to a soothing soak in Hot Springs Cove. These geothermal hot springs are unaltered and in their natural state. They cascade down a waterfall into numerous rock-lined pools, which ow from one to another, gradually becoming cooler as the spring water is cooled by ocean swell. The pools remain at an average temperature of 7:45:44 AM(122F). 50C Several tour companies combine day trips to the hot springs with a whale-watching/wildlifeviewing tour in and around Clayoquot Sound, the area between Tono and Hot Springs Cove. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, Northern BC

KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS
Soak surrounded by stalagmites, stalactites and the soothing sound of dripping mineral water. Relax in the main lounging pool and a unique horseshoe-shaped cave, or try a chilly dip in the stream-fed cold plunge. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Purcell Mountains and Kootenay Lake from the pools. Plan to visit Cody Caves Provincial Park where a system of underground streams ows 800 metres (2,625 feet) through ancient limestone and fragile calcite formations. Guided caving tours are available.
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FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS
HARRISON HOT SPRINGS
HARRISON HOT SPRINGS

Make Harrison Hot Springs your base to explore the incredible outdoor adventures in the region. Just 90 minutes east of Vancouver you can experience boating, shing, hiking, golng, skiing, mineral hot pools and so much more. Visit www.tourismharrison.com or call 604-796-5581 for a free visitors guide
Harrison Tourism.indd 1
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
9/23/09
A popular resort town on Harrison Lake, Harrison Hot Springs is known for its mineral-rich pools. Harrison Hot Springs is the only developed hot spring within close proximity to Vancouver. It has long been revered as a place of healing by the Salish First Nations of the area. The waters from two springs are piped to Harrison Hot Springs Resorts pools, where they are mixed with fresh water to cool them down to tolerable levels. Five mineral pools are accessible to resort guests only, but a nearby public hot springs pool is available for a fee. Harrison Hot Springs offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including golf, hiking, 8:25:04 AM boating, windsurng and camping.
Near Invermere, this is one of the largest hot spring mineral pool complexes in Canada, with outdoor pools totalling about 930 square metres (10,000 square feet). There are three large, public mineral hot pools the hot soaking pool is approximately 39C (102F) while the diving pool and the large swimming pool range from 30 to 32C (86 89F). One hot, private pool is reserved for guests staying at the resort. While at the resort, enjoy the spa facilities, golf courses and downhill skiing.
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HALCYON HOT SPRINGS
A hot spring resort located on the shores of Arrow Lake with astounding views of Upper
NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS

Enjoy the soothing mineral waters in BCs cleanest hot springs. Camp in a beautiful mountain setting beside the Kuskanax. Visit the snack bar for light refreshments and the gift shop for souvenirs. RELAX. REFRESH. RETURN.
1-866-999-4528 www.nakusphotsprings.com
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LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS
Radium Hot Springs, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Canadian Rockies Hot Springs/Brenda Falvey
Arrow Lake and the Monashee mountains. Relax in three mineral-rich pools that range in temperature from 32 to 40C (89 104F), then nish with a spa treatment or a dip in the mineral-water cold plunge. This is the place to be in any season: try snowshoeing and snowmobiling in winter, and in summer enjoy trail rides on horseback or shing in Arrow Lake. Check out downhill skiing at nearby Revelstoke Mountain Resort, featuring North Americas longest vertical lift-serviced descent as well as heli- and cat-skiing.
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Dont miss angling for legendary rainbow trout in Alces and Whiteswan lakes.

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After a long drive on the Alaska Highway, knowledgeable northerners head to these two rustic mineral pools nestled amid abundant, exotic plant life. Located at kilometre 765 (mile 475) of the Alaska Highway (Highway 97), approximately 60 km (37 mi) north of Muncho Lake. Follow the boardwalk to the busier Alpha pool, or walk further to the Beta pool; water temperatures range from 42 to 52C (107 125F). Be prepared to see wildlife, especially moose that are attracted to the warm marshlands of this provincial park. Also, watch for wood bison along the Alaska Highway near Liard River. Bask in the beauty of the ora 14 species of orchids ourish here, as well as carnivorous plants such as sundew, butterwort and aquatic bladderwort. Ostrich ferns and cow parsnip create a tropical ambience. TAKE A CIRCLE ROUTE TOUR: Make hot springs the highlight of your holiday on a road trip that includes some of BCs most memorable soaks; the scenic route takes ve to seven days to cover 868 km (540 mi) of easy road (excluding ferry distances). Sights along the way offer everything from local history and wildlife to hiking, biking and horseback riding. Visit HelloBC.com/drive for more information.
GANDL KIN GWAAYAAY (HOT SPRING ISLAND)
NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS
Dense forest frames the Nakusp hot springs in a narrow canyon carved by Kuskanax Creek. In the summer, the two pools are kept at 36C (97F) and 39C (103F); in the winter, they are kept warmer at 38C (100F) and 41C (107F). The Nakusp Hot Springs Campground is a short walk from the hot springs and features shaded sites along Kuskanax Creek. Plan to spend days hiking, biking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, then soak in the soothing mineral waters.
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Soak in one of the several seaside pools the largest is surrounded by salal bushes and crabapple trees. Trails lead to an intimate beachside pool and a cliffside pool that overlooks the ocean and the San Christoval Mountains. Feel the magic of Gwaii Haanas that lures visitors from around the world to its natural beauty and rich Haida heritage. Book a kayak, sailing or ightseeing excursion for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Access to the hot springs is by boat or aircraft. There are no roads, no maintained hiking trails and only limited visitor facilities.

Visit HelloBC.com/hotsprings
>> HOT SPRINGS

YUKON NWT
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FORT NELSON
HOT SPRINGS COVE HARRISON HOT SPRINGS AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS HALCYON HOT SPRINGS NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS RADIUM HOT SPRINGS LUSSIER HOT SPRINGS GANDL KIN GWAAYAAY (HOT SPRING ISLAND) LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS
RADIUM HOT SPRINGS

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Some of the largest hot spring mineral pools in Canada are a comfortable 39C (103F) and are set against the soaring rock cliffs of Sinclair Canyon in Kootenay National Park. Look for bighorn sheep on the rock walls of Sinclair Canyon while soaking. Redstreak Campground connects to the springs via an easy trail through the woods. Many other short, pleasant trails weave through the area and lead to interactive displays, lakes and the unusual paint pots three pools coloured bright orange, or even red or yellow, by oxide-rich springs.
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FORT ST. JOHN
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PRINCE RUPERT
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BELLA COOLA WILLIAMS LAKE PORT HARDY
LUSSIER HOT SPRINGS
Three natural hot spring pools nestled in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park. Reach the riverside pools via a short path from the parking lot, and soak in waters with temperatures of 34 to 44C (94 111F). Treat yourself to a winter dip when the snow laces the evergreens and the river is partially frozen over.
KAMLOOPS
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WHISTLER
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VANCOUVER VICTORIA
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HelloBC.com 31
water adventures
Get in a boat to explore a coastline of sheltered bays; stroll tranquil beaches; go underwater to glimpse a mysterious world; or cast your line for the big one in the deep blue ocean. Discover tucked-away lakes that beckon you to canoe and camp or sh for silvery trout. Or take on a rivers tumbling whitewater for a wild ride. Whatever your water pleasure action-packed or laid-back British Columbia has the answer.
inside:
pg35_kayaking pg39_canoeing pg42_river rafting pg45_whale watching pg46_shing pg50_sailing, cruising & marine parks pg52_windsurng & kiteboarding pg52_scuba diving pg53_surng pg53_jet boating pg53_house boating
Clayoquot Sound, Vancouver Island

Photo: Joel W. Rogers/CORBIS
Explore untouched islands, watch for whales, and poke a paddle into picturesque bays along the coast where eagles soar and dolphins play. Learn the technique and battle a ferocious river for an adrenalin-charged whitewater paddle. Possibilities abound for both sea and freshwater kayaking.
kayaking
JOHNSTONE STRAIT & BROUGHTON ARCHIPELAGO
SEA KAYAKING
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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DISCOVERY ISLAND MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
BROKEN GROUP ISLANDS
Paddle among more than 100 islands in Barkley Sound that feature enormous cedars, intriguing sea caves and dramatic blowholes. The outer islands lead to the open Pacic Ocean while inner islands provide a more protected paddle. Overnight at idyllic, sheltered camping spots and explore dozens of sheltered coves and bays teeming with sh and wildlife as well as numerous white sand beaches.
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The Chain Islets archipelago, easily accessible from Victoria, lies between Vancouver Island and Discovery Island, providing ample birdwatching and marine wildlife viewing opportunities. Paddle the 61-hectare (151-acre) ecological reserve, enjoying the seabirds, sea lions, otters and seals as well as sweeping views of mountains. Opt for a guided trip as rip currents and strong winds can be treacherous, unless you are experienced.
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A stretch of water and islands between northern Vancouver Island and mainland BC that teems with wildlife large pods of Orcas, otters, sea lions, seals, eagles and ospreys. Watch the shoreline for bears and eagles; this is also one of the most popular whale-watching areas on the whole British Columbia coast. For a taste of First Nations culture, take time to explore abandoned villages along the shore.

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BOWEN ISLAND
GULF ISLANDS
CLAYOQUOT SOUND
Access some of the West Coasts scenic ocean wilderness from the laid-back town of Tono where grey whales, sea lions, eagles and sea otters provide plenty of photo opportunities. Browning Passage is perfect for novice paddlers, or experts can circumnavigate Vargas Island in a day. Multi-day guided trips explore Maquinna Marine Provincial Park and showcase sandstrewn beaches, toppled totems and gigantic tidal pools.
A group of six main islands and nearly 200 smaller islands and islets between the mainland and the southern tip of Vancouver Island offer nearly unlimited possibilities to explore. Shorelines of inlets, caves and easy-access beaches with calm waters offer idyllic paddling; well suited for novice kayakers. Be enchanted by this marine ecosystem where you view birds, sea lions, seals and even resident Orca pods.
Use this island as a base to explore Howe Sound, visiting Keats and Gambier islands, and Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast. Start from Snug Cove to reach the pristine Apodaca Beach to the south, or head north for views of the jagged Coast Mountains; spend an afternoon kayaking through the Pasley Group, a cluster of nearby islets. This area is perfect for a short three-hour paddle or take a day or two to explore the island; stay in a cosy bed and breakfast and enjoy a peaceful oasis close to downtown Vancouver. The island has more than 2,000 ha (4,942 ac) of cedar, hemlock, r and arbutus trees; go for a hike and you might spot deer, mink, grouse, ravens, bald eagles and blue heron.
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DESOLATION SOUND MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
For accommodations, visit HelloBC.com/accommodations
ACCOMMODATIONS
The park spans nearly 8,500 ha (21,000 ac) and includes numerous islets and more than
YUKON
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BROKEN GROUP ISLANDS CLAYOQUOT SOUND DISCOVERY ISLAND MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
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COWICHAN RIVER SCHOEN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK & LOWER NIMPKISH RIVER CAPILANO RIVER CHEAKAMUS RIVER CHILLIWACK RIVER CLEARWATER RIVER KETTLE RIVER SIMILKAMEEN RIVER ELK RIVER SLOCAN RIVER KOOTENAY LAKE CHILKO RIVER HORSEFLY RIVER QUESNEL RIVER ATLIN LAKE BULKLEY RIVER LOWER STIKINE RIVER
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KLEMTU COOLA BELLA BELLA
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QUESNEL
ALEXIS CREEK
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HORSEFLY WILLIAMS LAKE
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CLEARWATER
PORT HARDY PORT MCNEILL

VANCOUVER ISLAND
5 7 POWELL WHISTLER RIVER KELOWNA 8 16 SLOCAN 6 SQUAMISH 2 20 15 17 PRINCETON PENTICTON 22 TOFINO 1 NANAIMO VANCOUVER UCLUELET 4 OSOYOOS 19 13 DUNCAN 3 VICTORIA USA
CAMPBELL RIVER SECHELT
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KAMLOOPS KASLO
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ALBERTA
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FERNIE CRANBROOK CRESTON
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Kayaking contd:
Vernon, Thompson Okanagan

Queen Charlotte Strait, Vancouver Island

Photo: Tourism BC/Tom Ryan
60 kilometres (37 miles) of shoreline backed by the soaring Coast Mountains. Relish excellent wildlife viewing opportunities: Spot seals, sea lions, whales and dolphins; deer, cougar and bears roam the land; sea stars, sea cucumbers, sea urchins and crabs populate intertidal zones; and bald eagles soar above. This is a popular area for boaters and kayakers of all levels, though the protected waters make it easy for rst-timers.
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Plan a multi-day kayaking trip or join a guided tour; camp on isolated, sandy beaches. This remote area can be accessed by air or by open-water kayak drop-offs available through BC Ferries Discovery Coast Passage.
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KLEMTU
SUNSHINE COAST
a-Luten Lodge.indd 1
A dramatic coastline of burnished boulders and tree-shaded bays is just a 40-minute ferry ride from West Vancouver. Kayak the mountain-enclosed Sechelt Inlets Marine Provincial Park that showcases 140 ha (346 ac) of wilderness including three inlets and 10/15/08 3:45:44 PM ideally spaced for kayakers seven camping areas with some 60 sites. Great scuba diving opportunities can be found in Sechelt Inlet, where a sunken Canadian navy vessel is now an articial reef. For an awesome display of the power of nature, visit Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park, where tides can reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (18 mph). Watch from the shore as experienced whitewater kayakers surf the standing waves created by large tidal exchanges.
Bask in the beauty of the wilderness coastline of deep fjords, giant trees and remote beaches on BCs central coast around Klemtu, including Fiordland Conservancy and Princess Royal Island. Opportunities abound to view sea lions, whales and even grey wolves and grizzly bears, with the prize sighting being the elusive white Kermode bear on Princess Royal or surrounding islands. Savour the rich traditions and history of the Kitasoo/Xaixais First Nations people in their traditional homeland. Camp or stay in coastal cabins on a multi-day trip or guided tour through the area. Access is via air or sea; wet launches are available through BC Ferries Discovery Coast Passage.

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PRINCE RUPERT

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HAKAI LUXVBALIS CONSERVANCY AREA
This is the largest marine protected area on the BC coast and is the historic settlement of the Heiltsuk First Nation. Paddle a labyrinth of islands and along a coastline of sheltered bays, white sand beaches, lagoons, sandbars as well as some open water crossings. Explore this ecologically diverse area and encounter seabird colonies, whales, sea otters, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises; on shore, spot black and grizzly bears, black-tailed deer and wolves. 36
Sheltered harbours punctuated with islands, bays and inlets make it ideal for inexperienced paddlers or as a base for multi-day trips for experienced kayakers. Kayak rentals, a wide variety of accommodations, and guided tours are all available in Prince Rupert. Paddle beside whales in Work Channel and venture into Khutzeymateen Inlet to see the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary.
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Remote and mystical, an archipelago of 467 islands rich in natural beauty, wildlife and Haida culture. Paddle past weathered totem poles, explore rich shellsh beds and gaze in wonder at soaring stands of western red cedar, hemlock and spruce.
Enjoy the diversity of seabirds and marine wildlife when paddling Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, which has been rated the best national park in North America by National Geographic Traveler magazine. In remote Gwaii Haanas Park the lack of roads and designated trails makes for a true wilderness experience. Visitors entering Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve between May 1 and September 30 must make a reservation with 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622) unless they are travelling with a licensed operator. Anyone entering the park must register and attend an orientation session at the Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate.
FRESHWATER KAYAKING
RIVER RATING SYSTEM: Difculty levels are rated from Class I to VI. Class refers to the severity of the rapids. Class I is tame, moving water with few or no obstacles. Class VI is not a navigable river; it has violent rapids and there is a risk of loss of life.
amid old-growth forests and meadows. Fearless paddlers can play in 40 sets of foaming rapids on a 20-km (12.4-mi) section of wild water.
Rating: Easy to intermediate; Class II to III; only experienced paddlers should attempt the river during high water ow

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VANCOUVER ISLAND
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CAPILANO RIVER
COWICHAN RIVER
GUIDED TOURS: Qualied guides give paddling instructions, map out a daily itinerary, prepare mouthwatering meals and arrange nature observations or hikes. Tour operators supply the equipment, food and permits. On overnight trips, accommodation ranges from a tent or base camp to a oating mothership or a bed and breakfast. Many wilderness and shing lodges offer guided day trips and kayaking packages. DOING IT YOURSELF: Book a guided trip unless you know the area and have good kayaking experience. Novices can gain experience in the calm waters of marine parks. Rental kayaks and supplies are available from kayaking shops and some marinas in coastal communities of BC. Before departing, always check the Marine Weather Forecast (604-666-3655) and tell someone your destination, planned route and time of return. ETIQUETTE AROUND ABORIGINAL SITES: Do not enter known Aboriginal sites without rst obtaining permission from local band ofces or Tribal Council. Respect ancient village sites they are considered sacred. Dont camp on beaches littered with seashells that have been recognized as middens, which are historic sites. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Always wear a personal otation device. Dress appropriately BCs waters are cold. Some areas of BC are extremely remote; experience in navigation, self-rescue, rst aid and wilderness camping is essential.
An exhilarating 30-kilometre (18-mile) two-day voyage on a Provincial Heritage River, suitable for intermediate to experienced kayakers. Includes a portage or two, rapids, logjam navigation and scenic beauty en route. Push your paddle power to the limit on the S-bend, Double Whammy and The Last Drop the wildest rides are October through June. The area between Skutz Falls and Marie Canyon draws experienced whitewater kayakers.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class II to III; only experienced paddlers should attempt the river during high water ow
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From fall to spring, expert kayakers can take on great whitewater 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver; kayaking on the Capilano has been featured in the New York Times. Kayak through this majestic canyon to see 60-metre-high (200-foot) rock faces, 90-m (300-ft) cedars, and perhaps even a variety of salmon in waters below. The Capilano River features excellent trails where you can view the large dam, a sh hatchery and the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge with its treetops walk.
Rating: Advanced; Class III to IV; kayakers should familiarize themselves with the river before their attempt; note that water levels vary greatly and are not always suitable for kayaking, especially in the dry summer months
SCHOEN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK & LOWER NIMPKISH RIVER
Kayak the ve-km (three-mi) narrow lake while enjoying the reection of towering Mount Schoen. Watch for black bears, deer and Roosevelt elk
DRIVING ROUTES

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Kayaking contd:
Revel in the mountain setting of this glacier-fed river that has something for every level of paddler. Be prepared for Classes II to IV with a few sections of Class V when the water level is high. Add some vertical to your adventure Cheakamus Canyon is home to some great rock climbing.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class II to Class IV or V
17 CHILLIWACK 16 CHEAKAMUS
RIVER
RIVER
Kayak this river where the Canadian National Kayak Team has trained; it offers several sections to choose from, ranging from beginner to expert. Choose from 33 km (20.6 mi) of river featuring intriguing rock formations, boulder gardens, blind corners, haystacks and even a slalom course. For a wild whitewater experience try a guided rafting trip.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class II to IV; only experienced paddlers should attempt the river during high water ow
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Tourism BC/Dannielle Hayes
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
Striking scenery with steep canyon walls, towering mountains and Class I to V rapids. Cruise the upper river, a gentle Class I to II, but be prepared for the lower river, Class III to IV in the canyon where a big waterfall drop known as the Leap of Faith will test the skills of expert kayakers. Stay at the vehicle-accessible campsites in Mount Fernie Provincial Park or in the town of Fernie.
Rating: Intermediate to advanced, depending on the section of the river
22 SLOCAN 21 ELK

24 CHILKO
RIVER
RIVER
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
This large-volume river in Wells Gray Provincial Park is well known among paddlers for the great variety of sections, ranging from easy oats to wildwater canyons. The most popular play area is the Class III to IV Lower Canyon. The town of Clearwater, the gateway to Wells Gray Park, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts everything from horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking, to shing, camping and canoeing are available.
Rating: Intermediate to advanced, depending on the section of the river, Class II to V
19 KETTLE 18 CLEARWATER
RIVER
This aquamarine river runs through steep canyons with sections of exciting, continuous whitewater, making it a classic must-do for skilled kayakers. Huge rapids (Class III to IV+) and awesome surf await paddlers; Lava Canyon is a legendary stretch of Class IV whitewater. The Chilko River connects with the Taseko to offer a remote, multi-day wilderness whitewater experience of Class II to III, with some Class IV sections, such as Taseko Falls. Keep watch for bears and eagles while on the river.
Rating: Advanced
RIVER
25 HORSEFLY
RIVER
A manageable paddle for river enthusiasts who love to be surrounded by wilderness and enjoy a variety of options. Stay at large, multi-use campsites to enjoy easy paddling down a clean, clear, slow-moving river. Bike the nearby Kettle Valley Rail Trail a historic trail built on an abandoned railway line over deep canyons.
Rating: Beginner-friendly Class II; a good introduction to river paddling
20 SIMILKAMEEN
The Slocan River runs 60 km (37 mi) from Slocan Lake to its conuence with Kootenay River, with numerous put-in and take-out options. Slow paddle a popular half-day eight-km (ve-mi) stretch from Slocan City to Lemon Creek, past rural farmlands and shallows teeming with waterfowl and wildlife; be prepared for challenging sections as this is fast-moving water. Take a short side trip to launch your kayak at pretty Kaslo, which hugs the shores of Kootenay Lake; go aboard the SS Moyie the worlds oldest intact passenger sternwheeler.
Rating: Intermediate to advanced, depending on the section of the river
23 KOOTENAY
RIVER
Close to the town of the same name and offering mainly Class II to III water, this is an ideal location for less experienced kayakers. Have fun on the Class III feature known as The Steps. In late August and September, look for salmon at the Horsey River Spawning Channel, which supports one of the largest sockeye salmon runs in BC.
Rating: Intermediate
26 QUESNEL
RIVER
RIVER
LAKE
A variety of options on a swiftly moving river that winds past scenic fruit orchards and sage-adorned hills east of Princeton. A good introduction to whitewater paddling, this beginner-friendly river is mostly Class II or III, depending on water ow. The canyon section, rated Class II to IV+ with technical drops, is for intermediate to advanced kayakers. Nearby Manning Park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and camping.
Rating: Beginner to intermediate with Class II to III; the canyon section is Class IV+ and for advanced paddlers
Tucked between two mountain ranges the Selkirks and the Purcells Kootenay Lake is one of BCs biggest natural lakes, giving paddlers plenty of space to explore. Parks, campsites, beaches, bays and pretty towns make up the shoreline. The sheltered West Arm is a popular area for paddling day trips. Visit the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, near the lakes south end, to look for birds and wildlife. Paddle in quiet Duck Lake, or join a naturalist on a guided canoe tour.
Set in the heart of gold rush country is a whitewater adventure with amazing rapids that range from Class II to IV. Paddle by pastoral farmland and remnants of ghost towns before running the Class IV Devils Eyebrow for non-stop hits. Or blast through Big Canyon near the city of Quesnel. Roam the ghost town of Quesnel Forks, located at the junction of the Cariboo and Quesnel rivers, to investigate the remains of an old gold-mining community.
Rating: Advanced
TRAVEL TIPS
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27 ATLIN
LAKE
This remote glaciated wilderness in the northwest corner of BC beckons adventurous kayakers with a yen to see the backcountry. Guided tours are available to explore BCs largest natural lake, the Llewellyn Glacier and the gold rush town of Atlin. Atlin is known for its spectacular beauty and community of artists; plan a trip around the annual Atlin Arts & Music Festival in early summer.
Rating: Easy
28 BULKLEY
The plentiful lakes of British Columbia are a canoeists utopia. Take a day excursion, stopping lakeside to picnic and angle for trout, or gear up for a multi-day portage in stunning backcountry.
canoeing
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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KENNEDY LAKE
ALOUETTE LAKE
RIVER
The largest freshwater lake on the island, surrounded by steep-sided mountains. Put in on sandy shores for a break on the way to Tono and Pacic Rim National Park Reserve. In the autumn, see sockeye salmon spawning along the beaches and watch for black bears.
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Located near Smithers, this is one of the great play areas for whitewater, with great views of Babine and Telkwa mountains. Dont miss Tatlow Falls; it is accessible by car and known as having one of the best surf waves in the region for competent paddlers. Smithers is an outdoor hotspot, with exciting opportunities for rafting, mountain biking, hiking, backcountry trips and shing.
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MAIN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
STIKINE RIVER
Paddle an intriguing chain of six lakes on Quadra Island, through shallow marshes, close to waterfalls and over rugged portages to enjoy trout shing and wilderness camping. Wonder at the biological diversity more than 72 bird species and some 234 plant species. Wildlife sightings include wolves, cougars, owls, bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcons and wintering swans.
Rating: Easy to intermediate; wilderness camping required
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Enjoy a day paddle or camp overnight at this fjord-like setting in Golden Ears Provincial Park; the south end of the lake is often busy with water activities (canoes can be rented) but the northern edge provides a peaceful paddle. Numerous campsites are spread around this popular lake, and camping opportunities range from vehicle-accessible to backcountry. Golden Ears is one of the largest parks in the region and is popular for swimming, cycling, horseback riding and more.
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POWELL FOREST CANOE ROUTE
An extraordinary 225-km (140-mi) downstream expedition that takes in icebergs, glaciers and hot springs. The Great River, with Class I to II opportunities, takes you from the Stikine Plateau to the Pacic Ocean. Hike to the Great Glacier in Great Glacier Provincial Park to see this massive ice tongue descending into an iceberg-dotted lake.
Rating: Easy to intermediate; wilderness camping required
SAYWARD FOREST CANOE ROUTE
A challenging network of 12 lakes that entails 48 kilometres (30 miles) of paddling plus 7.5 km (4.5 mi) of portages in Sayward Provincial Forest. Paddle the whole route over three to four days, or portions of one of the road-accessible lakes.
This eight-lake/ve-portage circuit, one of BCs best-kept secrets, covers 57 km (35 mi) of water and 8 km (4.8 mi) of land. On a ve- to seven-day trip, glide past dense woods to campsites on the scenic Sunshine Coast. Easily accessed from Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast also offers scuba diving, sailing, kayaking, hiking and mountain biking to keen adventurers.
DRIVING ROUTES
For information on the Lakes & Trails Circle Route, visit HelloBC.com/drive
GUIDED TOURS: Choose from guided trips ranging in length from a few hours to 12 days. Meals, especially on overnight trips, are often a gourmet spread. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Always wear a lifejacket and safety helmet mandatory on all guided whitewater trips. Wear a wetsuit as many of BCs rivers are glacier- or mountain-fed and are very cold. Never paddle alone and always advise someone of your destination and return time. Use caution when kayaking on lakes in mid- to late-afternoon as thermal winds and high waves can make paddling difcult.
ALASKA
YUKON NWT
>> CANOEING
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KENNEDY LAKE MAIN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK SAYWARD FOREST CANOE ROUTE ALOUETTE LAKE POWELL FOREST CANOE ROUTE CHRISTINA LAKE WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK COLUMBIA RIVER/COLUMBIA WETLANDS SLOCAN LAKE BOWRON LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK MOOSE VALLEY CANOE ROUTE TURNER LAKE CANOE CHAIN MUNCHO LAKE NANIKA-KIDPRICE CANOE ROUTE NATION LAKES
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WELLS BELLA COOLA ANAHIM LAKE
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WILLIAMS LAKE 100 MILE HOUSE
PORT HARDY
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CLEARWATER GOLDEN
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INVERMERE
TRANSPORTATION
VANCOUVER ISLAND
CAMPBELL RIVER
POWELL RIVER
WHISTLER KELOWNA
ALBERTA
PORT ALBERNI NANAIMO
VANCOUVER VICTORIA
NEW DENVER CRANBROOK
PENTICTON
GRAND FORKS
USA
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Canoeing contd: THOMPSON OKANAGAN

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CHRISTINA LAKE
Dip your paddle into one of Canadas warmest lakes, beautifully set against the Monashee Mountains in Gladstone Provincial Park. Stop at secluded, sandy beaches, admire old-growth cedars and Aboriginal pictographs, and sh for bass, kokanee, whitesh and trout. Ideal for family outings with many amenities including a boat launch, marina and barbecues.
Rating: Easy
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WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK
Glide across Murtle Lake, North Americas largest paddle-only lake. Clearwater, Azure and Mahood lakes are also idyllic for canoeing. Slide your canoe into clear, chilly waters and wilderness camp at lakeside spots in 20 different locations. Fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing and waterfall visits are some of the natural attractions in one of BCs most famous parks.
Echo Lake, Tweedsmuir South Provincial Park, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

Reserving a canoe departure date is highly recommended as the number of daily departures is restricted to protect the park; call 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622).
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NANIKA-KIDPRICE CANOE ROUTE
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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MOOSE VALLEY CANOE ROUTE
COLUMBIA RIVER/COLUMBIA WETLANDS
Explore North Americas longest continuous series of wetlands (26,000 hectares/64,000 acres); the beauty of the wildlife-rich wetlands is memorable. Paddle from Columbia Lake to Donald (north of Golden), a four- to six-day journey (235 km/143 mi). On a guided wetland paddling tour, spot great blue herons (the wetlands are home to Western Canadas second largest colony) and an amazing variety of waterfowl more than 250 species of birds have been spotted here.
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Eleven small lakes and six short, well-marked portages span approximately 6 km (3.7 mi) one-way in Moose Valley Provincial Park. Take a one- or two-day trip along this relaxed route through marshes, wetlands and lakes. Wildlife such as beavers, black bears, mule deer and moose live in this habitat, along with sandhill cranes and a large loon population.
Rating: Easy
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Four exceptionally scenic lakes extend from the Nechako Plateau into the snow-capped Coast Mountains southwest of Houston. Plan three to six days for the 40-km (25-mi) trip; be prepared for wilderness camping, ambitious portages and blustery winds. Marvel at the sight of Nanika Falls, plunging 18.3 m (60 ft), as well as moose and other wildlife.
Rating: Intermediate; backcountry camping required
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NATION LAKES
TURNER LAKE CANOE CHAIN
SLOCAN LAKE
A large, pristine lake with stunning mountain views and rock bluffs with ancient pictographs. Canoe for a few hours or embark on a two- to ve-day paddle along the lakes western shore part of Valhalla Provincial Park and camp overnight at wilderness sites along the lake. Hike to waterfalls and through old-growth forests from some of the boat-access-only trails in Valhalla Provincial Park.
A remote, high-elevation paddling destination surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and situated in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. Fly in by oat plane to six tranquil lakes linked by creeks and four portages, or complete the strenuous 16-km (10-mi) trail to Turner Lake. White sandy beaches, great shing, wilderness camping and cabins are found along the chain of lakes that takes three to ve days to canoe. Dont miss Hunlen Falls, which plunges 253 metres (830 feet) into the Atnarko River.
Instead of the Bowron Lakes, take this picturesque one-way 112-km (70-mi) trip along four backcountry lakes and three connecting rivers its well worth the effort. Soothe aching muscles at Tchentlo Lake Warm Springs with temperatures of 24C (75F). Located north of Fort St. James, this is one of BCs hidden gems and one of the best multi-day canoe trips in the province.
Rating: Easy to intermediate; backcountry camping required
GUIDED TOURS: No previous paddling experience required. Tour operators provide canoes, food and gear. DOING IT YOURSELF: Rent canoes for a few hours or a few days. Take lessons and learn proper safety. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Always wear a personal otation device and have a bailer, spare paddle and throw rope. Use caution when canoeing on lakes in the afternoon due to thermal winds and high waves. Do not paddle moving bodies of water unless you know how to handle eddies and rapids.

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MUNCHO LAKE
BOWRON LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
A world-renowned backcountry canoe route near historic Barkerville. The 116-km (72-mi) circuit takes 6 to 10 days to complete and is made up of 10 lakes and 7 portages; there is also a shorter two- to four-day option that travels the west side of the route. Paddle mountain-framed lakes, photograph moose, spot waterfowl and stay alert for bears. At days end, enjoy the serenade of resident loons. 40
A 12-km (7.5-mi) serene lake along the Alaska Highway in Muncho Lake Provincial Park; keep your camera handy as wild bison, Stones sheep, caribou, mountain goats and bears are often spotted. Stay at a lodge or camp at a provincial campsite; y-in canoe and shing trips are available. A relaxing soak in natural Liard River Hot Springs is well worth the hours drive to get there.
Rating: Easy; y-in destinations are rated intermediate to advanced

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Raft the Mighty Kicking Horse
Standing waves, whirlpools and drops give whitewater rafters heart-stopping rides, while calmer tributaries are visually breathtaking. Every bend reveals sweeping vistas and chance encounters with local wildlife. RIVER RATING SYSTEM: Difculty levels are rated from Class I to VI. Class refers to the severity of the rapids. Class I is tame, moving water with few or no obstacles. Class VI is not a navigable river; it has violent rapids and there is a risk of loss of life. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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river rafting
SOUTHGATE RIVER
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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Full-& half-day family adventures Two-day raft, jet & stay package Jet boat tours Winter snowmobile tours 20 years in business
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Rafters on the easy-owing Campbell River revel in close-up views through clear waters teeming with migratory West Coast salmon. Paddlers have the option to hop off the boat for a memorable experience of snorkelling with the salmon. A great introduction to rafting with the option of paddling or just oating with the current. The Oyster River is active during spring runoff with runs suitable for novice rafters. Take a guided tour of the Oyster River Hatchery.
Rating: Easy; Class I to II
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CAMPBELL & OYSTER RIVERS
Thrills abound on this four-day guided expedition that begins with a boat trip and helicopter ight to a remote put-in site near the Homathko Iceelds, BCs largest glacier. Enjoy a leisurely oat trip along a 30-km (19-mi) stretch of glacier-fed river that cuts through the rugged Coast Mountains. This magical excursion combines rafting, hiking, shing and wildlife viewing this is a habitat for grizzly bears, wolves, deer and more.
Rating: Easy to intermediate; Class I to II
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FRASER RIVER
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Lower Nimpkish: Forty sets of rapids make for a fun ride for families; enjoy abundant wildlife and areas suitable for swimming. Upper Nimpkish: Descend into Grotto Canyon and challenge yourself to Woss Falls. Rapids are closer 4:05:16 PM together, with minimal oating between them.
Rating: Easy to Intermediate, Lower Nimpkish River Class II to III; Upper Nimpkish is Class III to IV
NIMPKISH RIVER
Experience a guided rafting adventure on the provinces best-known river: the nearly 1,400-km (870-mi) Fraser is famous for its history, dramatic landscapes and thrilling rides. Take the kids on a leisurely oat down the Class I to II section of the river; the more adventuresome board a motorized raft to blast through Hells Gate where, every minute, 750 million litres (200 million gallons) of whitewater rushes through the rivers narrowest gorge. Enjoy lunch on a secluded beach or sh for sturgeon with an Aboriginal guide.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class I to IV, depending on the section of the river
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DRIVING ROUTES
Lyttons location at the conuence of the Fraser and Thompson rivers has earned it the nickname Rafting Capital of Canada. Choose a paddle- or motor-powered raft to take on the rapids; along with the adrenalin rush youll enjoy incredible scenery, including steep canyons, hoodoo formations and wildlife such as bighorn sheep. Head east to explore the provinces warm, dry interior a dramatic change from the lush rainforest of the coast.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class I to IV
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LYTTON
REO Rafting Adventure Resort

Looking for an Adventure Vacation...
REO Rafting Resort offers wilderness serenity, world-class whitewater rafting, and family adventure vacations. Our unique resort setting features two km of private river frontage overlooking the jade-green Nahatlatch River. Call to book - 800.736.7238 info@reorafting.com www.reorafting.com In the Fraser Canyon, near Vancouver, BC
One of BCs top whitewater excursions features near-continuous rapids on a spectacular jade-green river. Tackle the 12-km (7.5-mi) stretch that surprises with an astoundingly steep gradient of 16 metres per kilometre (85 feet per mile); adrenalin junkies will love the steep-walled canyon that boasts 12 rapids in a three-km (two-mi) section. When youre done rafting the Nahatlatch, explore the nearby Fraser Canyon on horseback.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class II to IV+
NAHATLATCH RIVER
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SQUAMISH & WHISTLER
Get soaked while manoeuvring the Class III, glacialfed Green river; the Elaho and Squamish rivers offer Class III and IV rapids in pristine wilderness, plus river extras that may include swimming through the rapids when the water conditions are right or participating in fun challenges from your guide. Families can enjoy exciting nature oats on the Lower Cheakamus and Squamish. Witness one of the worlds largest bald eagle gatherings mid-November through February during a half-day oat as the majestic birds feast on chum salmon at the conuence of the Squamish and Cheakamus rivers. Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and backcountry trips are a few of the many other activities in both these towns that are renowned for their bounty of adventures.
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Enjoy stunning scenes of hoodoos, eat lunch riverside and blast through 25 sets of rapids on either a paddle or powered raft. In addition to river rafting, many companies offer a range of family-oriented riverside accommodations and outdoor sporting activities.
Rating: Easy to Intermediate, Class I to IV
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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KICKING HORSE RIVER

Lower Elk River, Kootenay Rockies
STEIN RIVER
With a drop of 27 metres per kilometre (145 feet per mile), the Stein is the steepest commercially rafted river in Canada; a guided trip takes you through at least 30 non-stop Class IV and V rapids. On this iconic trip, hike past ancient Aboriginal pictographs on your way to the put-in point, then experience one of BCs most exhilarating and exclusive rivers; up to four trips per year are permitted to run through this pristine basin. The river is part of the Stein Valley Nlakapamux Heritage Park, a protected area co-managed by the provincial government and local Aboriginal peoples.
Rating: Intermediate to advanced; rafters must be strong swimmers in good physical condition; Class IV and V
Get wet and paddle hard on one of Canadas premier whitewater rivers, located near Golden. For the fun of it, paddle the Upper Canyon with its pleasant Class I to III rapids; then take on the Middle and Lower canyons that thrill with sections of Class III to IV+ rapids boasting names like Shotgun and Rollercoaster. Water adventurers will love the continuous Class IV rapids in the Lower Canyon. Yoho National Park is close by with accommodations ranging from rustic campgrounds to comfortable mountain lodges and cabins.
Rating: Easy to advanced; Class I to IV+
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July, August and September are great months to run these rapids; watch for wildlife such as bears, moose and bighorn sheep.
Rating: Intermediate; Class II to IV
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ST. MARY RIVER
ELK RIVER
Take the kids on a wet adventure you ease in with a gentle intro before hitting some fun rapids such as Pinball and the Chute. Jump into the river to cool off and bodysurf some of the gentler rapids.
Rating: Easy to intermediate; Class I to III
Admire incredible scenery while rafting emerald green waters; there is no road access to the Lower Elk River, which adds to the sense of remote wilderness. Steep canyon walls rise up beside the river, making cliff jumping or oating in a swimming hole a possible part of your trip. In mid-summer, this is the warmest river thats commercially rafted in the Canadian Rockies.

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CHILKO-CHILCOTIN-FRASER RIVER SYSTEM
Calling all rafting enthusiasts to tackle one of North Americas longest stretches of consistent Class III and IV rapids on a multi-day guided trip.
>> RIVER RAFTING
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THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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CAMPBELL & OYSTER RIVERS NIMPKISH RIVER SOUTHGATE RIVER FRASER RIVER LYTTON NAHATLATCH RIVER SQUAMISH & WHISTLER STEIN RIVER ADAMS RIVER CLEARWATER RIVER THOMPSON RIVER KICKING HORSE RIVER ELK RIVER ST. MARY RIVER CHILKO-CHILCOTIN-FRASER RIVER SYSTEM QUESNEL RIVER BABINE RIVER GATAGA-KECHIKA & TURNAGAIN RIVERS TATSHENSHINI-ALSEK RIVER SYSTEM
ADAMS RIVER
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YUKON NWT
A perfect introduction to whitewater rafting ideal for families yet not lacking in thrills. Blast over The Ledge and shoot through Adams River Gorge; in more slow-moving waters, witness one of the largest sockeye salmon runs in North America in fall. This protected river offers pristine nature in Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park.
Rating: Easy to Intermediate; Class I to III
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CLEARWATER RIVER
PRINCE RUPERT
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SMITHERS TERRACE PRINCE GEORGE
Clear, rushing waters in the awesome setting of Wells Gray Provincial Park. Tackle high-volume rapids on a one- or two-day trip that can include riverside camping, wilderness exploration and gourmet food. The landscape is inspiring with lush forests and the chance to walk behind a waterfall.
Rating: Intermediate; Class III and IV
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BELLA COOLA
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WILLIAMS LAKE
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CLEARWATER
PORT HARDY
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GOLDEN RADIUM HOT SPRINGS KIMBERLEY
RIVER
VANCOUVER
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ISLAND
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VANCOUVER VICTORIA
KAMLOOPS WHISTLER LYTTON KELOWNA PENTICTON
Huge rollercoaster waves, a hot climate and desert canyon scenery make this river one of BCs most popular rafting trips.
CAMPBELL RIVER NANAIMO
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ALBERTA
CRANBROOK
USA
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River Rafting contd:

The turquoise Chilko and Chilcotin rivers ow across old lava beds and through ranching country before merging with the Fraser. Paddle through canyons and gorges (Lava Canyon on the Chilko is a long stretch of non-stop Class IV whitewater) and past hoodoos and wildlife, including bald eagles, bighorn sheep and black bears.
Rating: Intermediate to advanced; Class III and IV+
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Dramatic scenery and wildlife sightings add to the northern experience. Be greeted by the magnicent totem poles of Kispiox Village at the end of your journey.
Rating: Intermediate; Class III to IV
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this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rating: Easy to intermediate; Class I to III TYPES OF RAFTING TRIPS: Float trips: Paddling participation is optional. Paddle trips: Guests are required to paddle the raft and listen to the guides commands. Motor-powered raft trips: Just hang on and enjoy the ride. GUIDED TOURS: No previous paddling experience necessary. Guided trips range from a few hours to over a week. Meals, if provided, may be a brown-bag lunch or a gourmet spread; accommodations may include tenting on shore or riverside lodges. While walk-ups can sometimes be accommodated, it is strongly advised you book in advance. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Always wear a personal otation device and helmet; both are provided on guided trips.
GATAGA-KECHIKA & TURNAGAIN RIVERS
QUESNEL RIVER
An exciting half- or full-day whitewater rafting experience that combines the serenity of oating past rolling farmlands with the thrill of running big rapids. On the upper Quesnel River (near Likely), paddle hard through Devils Eyebrow rapids; closer to Quesnel, surge through the Big Canyon rapids. Watch for moose, black bears, eagles and deer along the way and visit the ghost town of Quesnel Forks, an old gold-rush community.
A blissful retreat for backcountry adventurers three of the worlds great, but undeveloped, wilderness rafting rivers with 10- to 11-day trips available. Referred to as the Serengeti of the North, this wilderness expanse where the rivers run (the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area) hosts an abundance of wildlife including moose, elk, caribou, bears and Stones sheep. The crystal-clear waters are a y-shermans dream; heli-hiking/shing make this rugged and untamed wilderness an adventure of a lifetime.
Rating: Easy to Intermediate; Class I to III
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TATSHENSHINI-ALSEK RIVER SYSTEM

17 BABINE
RIVER
Head to pristine wilderness on a guided, multi-day adventure along the nearly 100-km (62-mi) Babine River. River raft, hike and camp in the isolated wilderness of the Babine Mountain Range.
Pristine and remote rivers in the northwest corner of the province that, together, rate among the worlds best wilderness rafting experiences. On a nearly two-week rafting trip, manoeuvre through canyons, around boulders and past massive glaciers that cascade down to the waters edge. Watch for moose, wolves, Dalls sheep, mountain goats, grizzly bears and rare blue glacier bears in

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TRANSPORTATION
Vancouver, BC
Whale Watching
DEPART HISTORIC STEVESTON VILLAGE GATEWAY TO THE ORCAS 45 ft. Vessels Door to door Shuttle Service Bike Rentals Fishing Tours Free All Day Parking Vessels Coast Guard Approved
Meet on the Pier!
604 -272-7200 1- 888 -272-7203
BLDG. #43-12551 No.1 Rd Steveston, BC
www.seabreezeadventures.ca info@seabreezeadventures.ca
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Thrill to the sound of a tail splashing, watch for a parade of dorsal ns cutting through the water and gasp in delight as a whale breaches. Orca, humpback, minke and Pacic grey whales can be seen throughout BCs coastal waters.
whale watching
YUKON NWT
>> WHALE WATCHING

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FORT NELSON
BAMFIELD, TOFINO & UCLUELET GREATER VICTORIA JOHNSTONE STRAIT VANCOUVER & STEVESTON PRINCE RUPERT & QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS
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ALASKA
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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BAMFIELD, TOFINO & UCLUELET

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FORT ST. JOHN
These three small towns on the west coast of the Island face the pathway of migrating Pacic grey whales and offer excellent whale watching. Over 20,000 grey whales pass by during the spring migration period and some make these waters their home for the summer and early fall. Spot whales from shore using a telescope or binoculars from Long Beach in Pacic Rim National Park Reserve or take one of the many guided tours.
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PRINCE RUPERT
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TELEGRAPH COVE KAMLOOPS
GREATER VICTORIA
Dozens of tours, available in everything from open, high-speed zodiacs to enclosed, high-tech cruisers, depart Victorias bustling Inner Harbour from April to October. Hear naturalists describe a whales lifecycle and habits and listen to pods communicate via hydrophone. Orcas dominate this area; also common are minke whales, grey whales, porpoises, seals, sea lions,
VANCOUVER ISLAND
WHISTLER KELOWNA TOFINO
ALBERTA
UCLUELET
NANAIMO
VANCOUVER
PENTICTON
CRANBROOK
VICTORIA
USA
bald eagles and many kinds of seabirds. Cruising in the Haro and Juan de Fuca straits, enjoy the scenery as well as whale sightings.
JOHNSTONE STRAIT
The Strait is one of the most consistent areas to view Orcas, and is home to Robson Bight (Michael
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Whale Watching contd:

Bigg) Ecological Reserve, near Telegraph Cove, established in 1982 as a sanctuary for whales. Enjoy views of breaching humpback whales, migrating minke and Pacic grey whales, and resident Orcas feasting on salmon; the community of Orcas here numbers about 200. Mountains surround whale watchers as the narrow strait is sandwiched between the Vancouver Island mountain range and BCs Coast Mountains. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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VANCOUVER & STEVESTON
Depart on a nature tour from Steveston to cruise the Fraser River Estuary; book a few hours or a full day on the Strait of Georgia, home to more than 80 Orca whales. Cruise by islands that are home to sea lions and view seals, eagles and other wildlife before returning to browse the historic shing village of Steveston. Birders should not miss the nearby Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary, where more than 280 species have been recorded.
Orca near Tono, Vancouver Island

Photo: Tourism BC/Adrian Dorst
PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: When whale watching, remember to adhere to boat safety rules and resist the urge to lean too far over the side of the vessel. When watching from the shoreline, beware of high, dangerous rogue waves especially in winter.
GULF ISLANDS

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PRINCE RUPERT & QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS
Experience whale watching on a day trip from Prince Rupert or cruise the North Coast amid isolated islands that make up the Queen Charlottes, also known by their Aboriginal name, Haida Gwaii. Several charter companies offer marine and whale-watching excursions that show off Pacic greys in the spring and summer, Orcas from May through early July, and humpbacks from mid-July through October. Take time to enjoy the mystical Queen Charlottes and the pretty waterfront area of Prince Rupert. GUIDED TOURS: Most day trips are family-friendly. Cruise in comfort in a heated, fully enclosed vessel or zip across the water in a zodiac-style open boat. Most tours have whale experts on board. Listen via hydrophones to the haunting sounds of whales communicating. WHALE-WATCHING ETIQUETTE: Do not disturb whales it is a federal offence. Approach whales from the side and do not get any closer than 100 metres (330 feet). When you see whales, maintain a low boat speed of under seven knots. Respect rules of ecological reserves; check with park ofcials or whale-watching operators for details regarding landing restrictions.
Engage in white-knuckle battles with sh that surprise you with their size and stamina. Try for trophy-sized halibut and chinook salmon in BCs coastal waters, cast your line into a crystalline lake that shimmers with glistening trout, or wade into a fastowing river for steelhead or salmon.
shing
This popular area is a haven for shing enthusiasts; chinook are caught year-round and seasonal runs of salmon pass through these waters on the way to the Fraser River. Fish in any season in the calm and protected waters close to both Vancouver and Victoria; throw a crab pot over the side or try for a tasty feed of spot prawns. Charters abound, or rent a boat and try your luck; angling is one of the many pastimes in this easily accesible recreation playground.
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PORT ALBERNI
SALTWATER FISHING
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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Fish in the sheltered waters of Alberni Inlet or venture farther and drop your line in the waters of Barkley Sound or the Big Bank off Ucluelet. Book a guided charter or rent a boat in this small town to sh for sockeye in June and July, chinook in August, and huge halibut from spring to fall. Plan your trip to coincide with the annual salmon festival in early September.
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PORT MCNEILL
BAMFIELD, TOFINO & UCLUELET
This trio of villages on the Islands west coast has one of the longest shing seasons in BC. The inshore area along the Broken Group Islands up to Clayoquot Sound is known to yield salmon weighing more than 32 kilograms (70 pounds). At the famous Big Bank, offshore from Ucluelet, chinook and coho are plentiful during warmweather months and halibut are also caught regularly; this is big water, so consider a guided trip.
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Port McNeills waters produce trophy catches including salmon, halibut, herring and cod. Chinook salmon can weigh in at more than 14 kg (30 lbs) while halibut can top 45 kg (100 lbs). Watch for the many resident Orcas, as well as porpoises, dolphins and other wildlife. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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GREATER VANCOUVER
CAMPBELL RIVER
TRAVEL TIPS
Head to this oceanfront town on the eastern edge of Vancouver Island that is synonymous with great shing so much so that the town is known as the Salmon Capital of Canada. Stay at a world-class shing lodge either in town or on nearby Quadra Island to try for chinook, coho and trout year-round. For a magical experience, don a wetsuit and snorkel among salmon as they enter the Campbell River.
Find easy access to shing spots in protected waters, including the mouth of the Fraser River, the north shore of Burrard Inlet, and Howe Sound. Known for its wild salmon, the waters are also rich in prawns, crab and rocksh. Rent a boat at Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to spend the day shing and exploring Howe Sound.
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SUNSHINE COAST
A verdant shoreline jutted with deep inlets and small coves near passages where salmon migrate through the Strait of Georgia. Drop a line in the deep waters of Pender Harbour, well known for superb salmon shing;
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SHEARWATER
Discovery Passage, Vancouver Island

Photo: Oak Bay Marine Group
Located on Denny Island, the small community of Shearwater is a gateway to the Great Bear Rainforest and offers amazing wildlife viewing spot whales, dolphins, bears and wolves, or try y-shing for coho among the kelp beds. Home to all ve species of salmon, with chinook that top 32 kg (70 lbs) and coho that weigh in at 11 kg (25 lbs). Abundant bottom sh include halibut, lingcod, red snapper and rocksh. From here you can also access Milbanke and Caamano Sound, home to excellent open-water shing.
North Pacic Cannery, the oldest remaining sh cannery on North Americas west coast and a National Historic Site.
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These dramatically beautiful, remote islands are a world-renowned anglers paradise. Langara Island and the west coast of the Charlottes are renowned for their rugged beauty, plentiful chinook salmon and massive halibut. Charters and bed and breakfasts abound, or stay at some of BCs most exclusive shing lodges and head out for an impressive catch. FISHING LODGES AND RESORTS: Facilities: Accommodations range from campgrounds and RV parks to cabins and motels, plus deluxe resorts, vessels and high-end oating lodges. Access: Many locations, including Prince Rupert, the Queen Charlotte Islands and the east coast of Vancouver Island, can be reached by regular scheduled air service and BC Ferries. More remote lodges are accessible only by boat or oat plane. GUIDED TRIPS: Enjoy guided packages at many resorts; while there, enjoy other activities to ll non-shing days. Try one of the fastest growing crazes in sport shing and go y-shing, ocean style. DOING IT YOURSELF: If you are an experienced boater with suitable credentials, rent or charter a boat from a marina.

talk to locals to nd other prime spots for salmon, rocksh, prawns and crab. Fish all day, then camp at one of the more than a dozen marine provincial parks, cruise into one of the sheltered marinas, or stay in one of the scenic seaside towns.
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KITIMAT

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HAKAI PASS
The protected waters around Kitimat, dotted with inlets, bays and islands, are a sanctuary for both marine life and wildlife. Take a guided shing trip in Douglas Channel to battle with hefty chinook and coho salmon, as well as massive halibut, or try for cod, snapper and shellsh. Soak at Bishop Bay Hot Springs in Ursula Channel or Weewanie Hot Springs in Devastation Channel.
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A scenic marine park off the coast of central BC, surrounded by islands and fjords and accessible only by oat plane or boat. This is the largest marine protected area on the BC coast; chinook, coho, chum and pink salmon are plentiful, and youll also nd halibut, lingcod and snapper. You will be enamoured by the areas natural beauty lovely lagoons, reversing tidal rapids and white sandy beaches that are ideal for camping.
RUPERT
The local waters provide abundant opportunities to catch all ve species of salmon, as well as halibut, rocksh and shellsh at this shing hotspot. This is the largest hub for sport shing on the north coast; the nearby salmon runs up the Skeena and Nass rivers produce trophy sh, with some weighing in at a whopping 40 kg (90 lbs). Visit nearby Port Edward to check out the historic
YUKON NWT
>> FISHING
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BAMFIELD, TOFINO & UCLUELET CAMPBELL RIVER GULF ISLANDS PORT ALBERNI PORT MCNEILL GREATER VANCOUVER SUNSHINE COAST HAKAI PASS SHEARWATER KITIMAT PRINCE RUPERT QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS
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CAMPBELL RIVER COWICHAN RIVER GOLD RIVER FRASER RIVER SQUAMISH RIVER VEDDER-CHILLIWACK RIVER CLEARWATER RIVER KALAMALKA LAKE LOGAN LAKE DISTRICT SHUSWAP LAKES COLUMBIA RIVER ELK RIVER KOOTENAY LAKE DEAN RIVER QUESNEL LAKE THE FISHING HIGHWAY (HIGHWAY 24) BURNS LAKE (LAKES DISTRICT) CARP LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK CHARLIE LAKE HOUSTON & SMITHERS SKEENA RIVER
FORT NELSON
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FERNIE CRANBROOK CRESTON
VICTORIA
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Fishing contd:
Abide by the safety regulations set by the Canadian Coast Guard. Ensure someone knows where you are boating. PRACTICAL POINTS: No previous experience necessary for guided trips; self-guided shers should have good boating skills and knowledge of the surrounding area. Fisheries and Oceans Canada sets the catchand-keep limits; for information, call 604-6660384 or visit www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

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FRESHWATER FISHING
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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CAMPBELL RIVER
Fish for wild runs of steelhead, salmon and trout alongside the locals on the banks of this popular heritage river. Trout shing is year-round, plus chinook run in August and September, coho from September to November, and steelhead in winter months.
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COWICHAN RIVER
Tatlayoko Lake, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
This famous heritage river is populated with rainbow, cutthroat, winter steelhead and rare brown trout. Set up along the 23-kilometre (14-mile) Cowichan River Footpath and drop your line into what many consider the nest trout stream on the Island. Enjoy eight km (ve mi) of y-shing only waters.
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GOLD RIVER
Fly-sh on one of the best steelhead rivers on Vancouver Island; head to the lower canyon area for deep, slow water where steelhead gather. There are two annual spawning runs December to March and June to September/October. Sign up for a guided expedition to y, hike or 4X4 into remote backcountry for memorable shing. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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FRASER RIVER
BCs longest river and one of the worlds greatest salmon rivers offers every variety of shing. As well as all ve species of salmon, try for the mighty white sturgeon its the largest freshwater sh in North America and can weigh up to 454 kg (1,000 lbs). While on the Fraser, sign up for other adventures everything from hiking and camping to horseback riding and wildlife viewing takes place near this river that cuts through the province.
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RIVER
Located only 50 km (30 mi) north of Vancouver, this glacier-fed river is supplied by four tributaries. Fish for steelhead, salmon, rainbow trout and 48
cutthroat during your stay in Squamish, known as the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada. Fish for salmon and trout in over 50 km (30 mi) of shable waters in this easily accessible river in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Indulge in excellent shing year-round: winter steelhead, chinook and coho salmon, rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and mountain whitesh are here at various times of the year.
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RIVER
This premier dry y-shing destination lures anglers with Westslope cutthroat trout that can reach 50 centimetres (20 inches) long as well as large bull trout that inhabit these waters. Located in the Elk Valley and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, this is a spectacular setting for shing. Backcountry camp in the northern end of the Elk Valley where small, remote lakes in Elk Lakes Provincial Park offer Dolly Varden and whitesh.
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24 ELK
RIVER
On the doorstep of Tweedsmuir Provincial Park are some 300 lakes including Burns and Decker lakes, famed for their rainbow trout; char is caught early in the year. Embrace the great outdoors in this region that is terric for hiking, wildlife sightings, backcountry trips and ranch visits, as well as shing. This 6,000-hectare (14,830-acre) island-dotted lake north of Prince George is famous for rainbow trout and offers some of the best shing in the Central Interior. Follow an easy loop trail to the McLeod River for fabulous y-shing, or take a short hike to War Falls to view a set of spectacular waterfalls. Two vehicle-accessible campgrounds with boat launches offer more than 100 fully maintained campsites, or boaters and canoeists can choose from three island campsites with broad, sandy beaches.
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LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
Fish for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden as you drift down the river, stand on the shoreline or walk-and-wade in this river in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Be captivated by wildlife sightings, and take pictures of Helmcken Falls. Catch-and-release for wild rainbow trout is encouraged in this slice of y-shing heaven. Rainbow trout over 4.5 kg (10 lbs), lake char over 10 kg (22 lbs) and good-sized kokanee beckon. Numerous backcountry lakes and streams to the east and south of Kalamalka Lake provide even more angling adventures; campgrounds and resorts make multi-day excursions comfortable. Some of the best high-country stillwater trout shing in North America is found at the more than 30 lakes southwest of Kamloops. Stay at a resort and try for trout up to 8 kg (18 lbs) at Tunkwa, Leighton, Face and Logan, some of the many lakes that put smiles on anglers faces.
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LAKE
RIVER
Go for the Gerrard the worlds largest rainbow trout weighing up to 16 kg (35 lbs) as well as kokanee, largemouth bass and cutthroat trout. One of BCs largest inland lakes, with excellent amenities as well as semi-wilderness areas for year-round shing. Nearby Kokanee Creek Provincial Park has vehicleaccessible camping and a viewing platform to watch spawning salmon in late summer.
LAKE

The Lower Dean is one of the worlds nest steelhead rivers, and the Upper Dean is known for its plentiful rainbow trout; June and July bring chinook salmon to the Lower Dean. The Lower Dean is only accessible by air or boat; the Upper Dean can be reached by car. Near the Upper Dean River, sh for trout at Anahim Lake or hop a oat plane to a remote shing destination from Nimpo Lake its known as the oat plane capital of BC.
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THOMPSON OKANAGAN
RIVER
LAKE DISTRICT
CATHEDRAL LAKES LODGE

Hey, Billy, look! More hikers are on their way to Cathedral Lakes Lodge. Those lucky folks stay in a comfortable lodge 2,000 meters above sea level and have a good meal in the dining room, while you and I are stuck on this rock eating lichen. We dont even have a phone, let alone the internet! They have a new website at www.cathedrallakes.ca or you can just call 1-888-255-4453 to book a room.
LAKE
LAKES
Enjoy lake shing in Adams Lake Provincial Park where you can hook kokanee and rainbow trout, or head to Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park to cast a line in the river for rainbow and bull trout, as well as whitesh. Rent a houseboat and drop a line off your deck for kokanee, rainbow trout, lake trout, eastern brook trout, whitesh, burbot and perch. Pick from over 20 lakes in the region, or stop at Salmon Arm on Shuswap Lake to cast a line off the longest freshwater shing pier in Canada.
Catch a unique variety of rainbow trout (up to 9 kg/20 lbs) in the worlds deepest fjord lake. Mid-May to early June as well as September are best for ycasters at this hot spot for trout. Campsites and lodges on and around the shores of Quesnel Lake provide a home base for shing.
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11:57:08 AM
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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RIVER
Some of the continents best walleye shing is near the Waneta Dam south of Trail; try for 30 to 40 sh in a day from mid-June through October. Between Castlegar and the US border, anglers catch rainbows up to four kg (nine lbs) and walleye up to two kg (four lbs). Enjoy a bowl of borscht as you learn local history at the Doukhobor Discovery Centre in Castlegar.
For the shing experience of a lifetime, Cathedral spend Lakes.indd 1 10/5/09 some time on this 97-km (60-mi) corridor from 93 Mile House to Little Fort; it boasts more than 100 shing lakes. Known as the Interlakes, these shing havens including Lac Des Roches, Sheridan, Fawn and Bridge lakes are populated by rainbow, brook and lake trout, burbot and kokanee, among others. Stay at a guest ranch or resort to add horseback ELYSIA RESORT ON QUESNEL LAKE riding, hiking or biking to your shing trip. Destination resort and casual dining on Quesnel Lake,

Some of the best rainbow trout shing in the area is found on a legendary stretch known as Rainbow Alley, where Babine Lake joins Nilkitkwa Lake and narrows into the Babine River.
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LAKE (LAKES DISTRICT)
the deepest fjord lake on earth, in the heart of the Cariboo Mountains. Complete sport shing adventures, romantic getaways & vacation packages. Nature based adventures & excursions. Affordable excellence. Drive in or y in. Phone: 250.243.2433 Fax 250.243.2433 rainbow@elysiaresort.com www.elysiaresort.com www.shrainbowwaters.com
HelloBC.com 49
Fishing contd:
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CHARLIE LAKE
This tucked-away lake outside of Fort St. John is an excellent year-round family shing location. Try for northern pike and walleye, or wander the forested trails on a guided interpretive walk. Campgrounds, picnic areas and boat launches are located in Beatton and Charlie Lake provincial parks.
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November, plus world-record-sized chinook, steelhead, rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Hop in a riverboat, y-sh from shore, or try a slow drift; y in to remote mountain lakes for a shing stay at a cabin or lodge. GUIDED TOURS: Rely on the expertise of shing guides to show you the best shing spots. For more adventure, y to little-known lakes and rivers by oat plane or helicopter. PRACTICAL POINTS: Steelhead are catch-and-release in most areas. You need a provincial licence to sh in BC lakes and rivers, and a federal licence to sh tidal waters (special licences are required in national parks and are available from park headquarters). When buying your licence, ask for the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis to determine season dates, possession limits and restrictions.
Cruise beside cliffs, drop anchor in hidden bays, circumnavigate islands and scan forested shorelines for wildlife. British Columbias shoreline is sprinkled with more than 85 marine parks.
sailing, cruising & marine parks
HOUSTON & SMITHERS
Houston, on the conuence of two great shing rivers, the Morice and the Bulkley, has the worlds largest y rod at 18 m (60 ft) it is a tribute to what anglers can expect in the area. Smithers, on the Bulkley River, offers excellent shing opportunities and provides easy access to the upper Babine River, a top y-shing destination, and Babine Lake, known for producing trophy lake trout, rainbow trout and salmon. Follow Highway 16 to access this area; there are many shing charters available.
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VANCOUVER ISLAND
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CORMORANT CHANNEL MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
Spend days cruising among wilderness islands in the Cormorant Channel, north of Alert Bay; at days end nd shelter in protected, peaceful bays. Cruise channels that teem with sea life and attract sport shers, scuba divers and kayakers. Keep watch for the northern community of Orca whales that are commonly seen in this area.
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GULF ISLANDS
SKEENA RIVER

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Access BCs second-largest river from Prince Rupert, Terrace or Kispiox; it stretches 580 km (360 mi) with more than half a dozen tributaries. Renowned for some of the worlds most exceptional salmon runs from March through
DRIVING ROUTES
This 200-island archipelago is one of the most popular cruising destinations on BCs entire coast; there are many protected coves and hidden bays as well as amenities on the populated islands. Visit the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve of Canada, Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park and tranquil Bennett Bay on Mayne Island.
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Conservancy; drop a line for salmon and halibut and keep watch for wildlife along the shore. Intermediate or advanced sailing knowledge/ experience required. GUIDED TOURS: Deluxe excursions feature gourmet meals, modern amenities and luxury staterooms. Learn about your surroundings from an on-board naturalist on a nature cruise. DOING IT YOURSELF: Basic boating knowledge required for all charters. Bareboat charters are available; chartering larger vessels usually requires previous boating experience and proof of qualications. Stock up on nautical information at local marinas and boating supply stores; call Canadian Hydrographic Services at 250-3636358 or visit www.charts.gc.ca. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: For boating regulations and safety practices, visit the Canadian Coast Guard at www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca. By law, you must visit a Canada Customs reporting station immediately upon entering Canadian waters. Call 1-888-226-7277 for more information.
English Bay, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Tourism BC/Kevin Arnold
Gallery hop in small towns that artisans call home and drop into the Salt Spring Island Saturday Market.
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JERVIS INLET/PRINCESS LOUISA INLET
PIRATES COVE MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
Located in the southern Gulf Islands, this park features natural harbours and unique sandstone formations. On De Courcy Island venture into caves and admire middens heaps of shells that are evidence of a rich Aboriginal past. Hike trails to explore sandstone beaches, harvest fresh clams and oysters, and enjoy the feast. Watch for abundant wildlife in the area, including sea lions and harbour seals. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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Two spectacular glacier-carved inlets stretch deep into the snow-capped Coast Mountains; accessible only by boat or oat plane. In Princess Louisa Marine Provincial Park, hikers and wildlife viewers delight in the boardwalks and trails around stunning Chatterbox Falls, which tumbles 40 metres (131 feet) into Princess Louisa Inlet.

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DEAN CHANNEL
COPELAND ISLANDS MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
This cluster of islands and rocky islets just north of Lund is a favourite with local boaters and kayakers. Enjoy the peacefulness of this pristine marine park that features 180 hectares (445 acres) of land and more than 250 ha (618 ac) of intertidal area. An idyllic, tucked-away spot to watch for sea lions, whales, seals, porpoises, deer and bald eagles.
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Cruise surrounded by dramatic scenery towering mountains, tumbling waterfalls and dense forests and scant water trafc. Stop at Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park and visit its cobble beach to see petroglyphs. Relax in Eucott Bay Hot Springs and venture into Cascade Inlet to see high waterfalls spilling down each side of the picturesque fjord. Intermediate or advanced sailing knowledge/ experience required.
Visit HelloBC.com/wateractivities, BC Parks at www.bcparks.ca or www.discoverboating.ca
CARIBOO CHILCOTIN COAST & NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

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INSIDE PASSAGE
DESOLATION SOUND MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
True to its name, this vast inlet with some of the worlds best cruising waters feels removed from the world. Spend days in one of BCs largest marine parks with 60 kilometres (36 miles) of shoreline dened by inlets, coves, bays, lakes and waterfalls. Swim in some of BCs warmest ocean waters, camp at a wilderness site, hike to Unwin Lake for a dip in fresh water, and enjoy the abundance of wildlife.
Revel in the challenges of one of the worlds most spectacular marine routes, stretching 507 km (315 mi) from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert. Docks, fuel, groceries and other amenities are available at limited stops along the way. Spot whales, porpoises and other wildlife, wave to passing cruise ships, and view waterfalls, lighthouses and abandoned sh canneries. Advanced sailing knowledge/experience required.

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DOUGLAS CHANNEL
Sail among soaring rock walls and dense forest in this 90-km (56-mi) fjord. See the worlds largest undeveloped coastal temperate rainforest in the Kitlope Heritage
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The winds up! Whip along a sparkling, warm lake or head for the ocean to soar above the tidal forces that wash the shoreline of British Columbia. This province, whether it be lake or ocean, embraces enthusiasts who love to ride with the wind.
windsurng & kiteboarding
BC coastal waters are ranked among the top diving destinations in the world for wall diving and for the abundance and variety of marine life. Highlights include the worlds largest species of octopus, the intriguing wolf eel and enormous six-gilled sharks.
scuba diving
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the 250 resident seals at Snake Island, then explore a 183-m (600-ft) wall covered in cloud sponges.
PORT HARDY & GODS POCKET MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK
VANCOUVER ISLAND VANCOUVER ISLAND

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BARCLAY SOUND & CLAYOQUOT SOUND
One of the pinnacles of diving in BC with 30 m (100 ft) of visibility and some of the most intense concentrations of marine life in North America. Dont miss the 70-m (230-ft) Browning Wall, blanketed with sponges, anemones, basket stars, nudibranches, lingcod, Puget Sound king crabs, wolf eels and giant Pacic octopus. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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NITINAT LAKE
This lake is actually a tidal inlet; its isolated campsite and beach are tucked down a gravel road west of Duncan. Known as the place where the trees talk to the sailors as the wind predictably picks up between 10 a.m. and noon; the season lasts from May through September, with July and August being the most consistently windy months. Lessons and rentals available range from 30 minutes to multi-day camps. Explore nearby canyons, rivers, rainforests and caves.
Enjoy exceptionally clear waters in the islets and reefs around the Broken Group Islands. Dive near Hot Springs Cove and take in the natural hot springs in Maquinna Marine Provincial Park. Explore the Graveyard of the Pacic where numerous shipwrecks have occurred some dating back to the 1800s due to the treacherous coastline.
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HOWE SOUND
BRENTWOOD BAY
Explore shore-accessible dive sites within easy reach of Vancouver and Squamish. Look for octopus shelters in Whytecliff Marine Park or play among the four sunken wrecks at diver-friendly Porteau Cove Provincial Park.
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In the Saanich Inlet along the Finlayson Fjord, see the Glass Sponge Gardens, an immense sea mountain covered with sponges thought to have been extinct since the upper Jurassic period; the largest sponges recorded up to 3.6 metres (12 feet) across reside here. Explore 213-m (700-ft) walls teeming with life.
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SUNSHINE COAST

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CHEMAINUS
SQUAMISH
The Squamish Spit (where the Squamish River meets Howe Sound) is widely regarded as one of the worlds top 10 places to set your sails; its been the site of both the North American Continental Windsurng Championships and the Canadian Windsurng and Kiteboarding Championships. The Coast Salish word Squamish means mother of the wind and she lives up to her name as winds consistently whip sails at 15 to 25 knots in the spit, and 30-knot gusts are not uncommon. Newcomers will enjoy the friendly atmosphere and kiteboarding schools that operate from the Spit. A retrieval jet boat is an additional safety element.
Rating: Advanced
At Thetis Island explore a sunken 737 jetliner at 20 m (66 ft) below the surface. Mounted on 3-m (10-ft) support stands, the airplane is home to over 100 different varieties of marine life. Expect to see green and purple sea urchins, tube worms and Puget Sound king crabs.
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Great visibility, plenty of 60-m (200-ft) walls and variety of marine life including cloud sponges, feather dusters and cold-water corals draw divers to the coast between Gibsons and Powell River. Explore the HMCS Chaudire, a huge sunken warship in Sechelt Inlets Marine Provincial Park. When diving in Powell River, seek out the Emerald Princess a bronze mermaid sculpture. GUIDED TRIPS: Dive resorts and live-aboard dive boats offer a variety of packages. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Most dive sites are suitable for novice to advanced divers; all divers should have proper training, equipment and local knowledge. Go with a guide as riptides, currents, boats and extremely cold water present many hazards. Wear a drysuit or thick wetsuit with hood, gloves and booties BCs waters are cold. Book a winter dive: BC waters are clearest at 30 m (100 ft) between October and March.
HORNBY ISLAND
Enjoy terric diving and long sandy beaches as well as the shipwreck of the SS Alpha, circa 1900. Watch for the elusive six-gill shark, known to make appearances in this area.
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NANAIMO
TRANSPORTATION
Late diving guru Jacques Cousteau considered this among the best dive sites in the world. Check out the articial reefs created by two sunken ships, a 134-m (440-ft) WW II era Victory ship and a 112-m (366-ft) navy destroyer. Swim with the Seals divers swim with some of

Visit HelloBC.com/diving
Chesterman Beach, Tono

Photo: Tourism BC/Tom Ryan
Browning Pass, Vancouver Island

Photo: Dale Sanders/British Columbia Photos
Squamish Spit, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Dave Humphries
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Riding the mighty Pacic is an exhilarating experience as the thundering waves provide non-stop action for serious surfers. Take a lesson, rent a board, join the locals.
surng
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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JORDAN RIVER & SOMBRIO BEACH
Towering waves break on beaches on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island, a popular spot among the growing community of local surfers. Surng day trips are offered to Sombrio Beach. Amenities in this rural area are limited but guide companies provide all necessary equipment.
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Sign up for a guided river safari aboard a comfortable craft or hop on a smaller six-person jet boat to run along shallow rapids. Steal into shallow bays and tucked-away inlets to glimpse wildlife in their natural backcountry habitat, then skim over heart-thumping rapids for a fast-paced thrill. Jet boating trips can last a few hours or a few days. Guided trips may have minimum age/ weight requirements and typically include life jackets and splash jackets.
jet boating

Visit HelloBC.com/jetboating
TOFINO & UCLUELET
Canadas best surng is at Long Beach, with waves as high as 4 metres (12 feet); this beach is part of Pacic Rim National Park Reserve. Keen surfers also ock to Chesterman, MacKenzie, Florencia Bay and Cox Bay no matter which way the swells are coming in, theres always somewhere to ride. Sign up for lessons and learn to ride the waves at surf camps for adults and children.
Splash into an azure lake, drop anchor to explore secluded beaches, or drift languidly past untouched shorelines and forests woven thick with evergreens. Renting a houseboat is a peaceful and scenic way to explore BCs waterways troll for dinner, relax on a sandy beach and pop into a laid-back lakeside town for an afternoon. Shuswap Lake in the arid Thompson Okanagan is even known as the Houseboat Capital of Canada with scenic backdrops of waterfalls, lush forested mountains and ancient petroglyphs. Houseboats range in size, sleeping up to 15 people. Deluxe facilities can include waterslides, hot tubs, TVs, microwaves and sh nders.
house boating

Visit HelloBC.com/houseboating

Visit HelloBC.com/surng
Jet Boating, Columbia River, Kootenay Rockies
Photo: Larry Sparks
Mara Lake, Thompson Okanagan

HelloBC.com 53
winter adventures
Think snow, think big. Big mountains, that is. This is British Columbias winter scene and, even at a glance, it leaves little doubt why it was the venue for the recent Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Thanks to more than 10 major mountain ranges and impressive resorts and services, BC is the ultimate destination for winter adventurers.
inside:
pg55_downhill skiing & snowboarding pg57_heli/snowcat skiing & snowboarding pg59_cross-country skiing & backcountry touring pg60_dogsledding pg61_snowshoeing pg62_snowmobile adventures

Photo: Tyler Garnham/coastphoto.com
Its all about choices: pristine, knee-deep powder, groomed runs, challenging glades or an awesome terrain park. Or do them all for the rides of your life. For skiers and boarders, a British Columbia winter vacation is bound to be a peak experience.
downhill skiing & snowboarding
try for a frontside ve at Orage Terrain Park or check out the boxes at Crooked Park. Glide through the trees on a kilometre-long (0.6 mile) ice skating loop, take on the challenge of the 12-m (40-ft) ice climbing tower, or explore the friendly and inviting village.
Runs: 67 (16% beginner, 48% intermediate, 36% advanced)
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VANCOUVER ISLAND
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MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT
This something for everyone resort consistently logs Canadas biggest all-natural snow bases. Skiers and boarders can play in two terrain parks, while snowshoers can book a tour that ends with a three-course fondue dinner. Ride the unique Boomerang Chair, which can load and unload from both sides of the mountain. Take time at the top to bask in the beauty of the 360-degree view of ocean, valley and mountains.

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Pretend you are going for gold on the Dave Murray Downhill; Whistler Blackcomb boasts 3,306 hectares (8,171 acres) of play space along with a vertical of 1,609 metres (5,280 feet) and hosted 10 alpine skiing events. (Whistler was also the site of the sliding and Nordic events as well as most of the Paralympic competitions.) Catch air at the Terrain Garden on your board or skis and then kick back at a bustling bar, restaurant or nightclub the two mountains and village have it all. Prepare for yet another thrill: take a ride on a record-breaking gondola; it has the worlds longest unsupported span for a lift of its kind. The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola spirits riders between Whistler and Blackcomb making it possible to test your mettle on two giant mountains in one day.
BIG WHITE SKI RESORT
Go for the dry, uffy powder at this resort tucked into the heart of the sunny Okanagan. Show off on the award-winning terrain park with a skier/boarder-cross course, or head to the mountaintop to see the famous snow ghosts trees completely frosted with snow. Take the family as Big White caters to kids and the ski-in/ski-out village boasts loads of recreation possibilities such as carnival nights and a tubing park.
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SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN RESORT
VANCOUVERS LOCAL MOUNTAINS
Three snowy mountains easily reached from downtown Vancouver. Cypress Mountain: Zoom down challenging chutes in the terric bowls or cruise easy green runs at this snowy haven. Cypress Mountain was the recent 2010 Winter Games venue for freestyle skiing and snowboard competitions. Check out recently expanded terrain for highlevel intermediate and expert skiers and riders, or take it easy in the beautiful new 48,000square-foot timber-frame day lodge. Take a moment to appreciate the spectacular views of the city below.
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT
Join the keen locals who ski and board at this resort blessed with legendary, lighter-than-air champagne powder. Get an adrenalin rush on the challenging runs or
Warm up on the front face of this idyllic Okanagan mountain, then test your mettle on the steep and deep black runs on the back side; play in the terrain park and rail garden that challenges even the best of riders. Enjoy the Victorian-style village, get rosycheeked on the outdoor skating pond, zoom downhill with the kids at Tube Town and be charmed by a magical sleigh ride.
>> DOWNHILL SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

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YUKON NWT
MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT VANCOUVERS LOCAL MOUNTAINS WHISTLER BLACKCOMB APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT BIG WHITE SKI RESORT SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN RESORT SUN PEAKS RESORT FERNIE ALPINE RESORT KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT KIMBERLEY ALPINE RESORT PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE RED MOUNTAIN RESORT REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT WHITEWATER WINTER RESORT POWDER KING MOUNTAIN RESORT SHAMES MOUNTAIN HUDSON BAY MOUNTAIN RESORT
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FORT NELSON
Grouse Mountain: Step onto your skis or snowboard night or day, revel in one of the best views of the city from The Cut and be surprised at the double black runs at this family-friendly mountain. Go for a sleigh ride, snowshoe or a moonlit skate.
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ALASKA
Mount Seymour: Sign the kids up for Snow Camp, have a blast on two terrain parks, or glide through tree runs and along gentle slopes. For even more fun, head to the Enquist SnowTube Park: rocket down and a custom-made lift tows you back uphill. Hop on a pair of snowshoes for a full-moon tour.
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FORT ST. JOHN
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PRINCE RUPERT
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SMITHERS
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PRINCE GEORGE
TERRACE
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REVELSTOKE GOLDEN
WHISTLER BLACKCOMB
Whistler and Blackcomb mountains were venues for the recent Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and together make up what is consistently ranked as North Americas number-one ski resort.
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VANCOUVER ISLAND
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VERNON
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COURTENAY NANAIMO
KAMLOOPS WHISTLER
INVERMERE
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ALBERTA
FERNIE CRANBROOK
VANCOUVER VICTORIA
KIMBERLEY KELOWNA NELSON
PENTICTON ROSSLAND
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USA
HelloBC.com 55
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding contd:
Panorama Mountain Village, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Tourism BC/David Gluns
Silver Star Mountain Resort, Thompson Okanagan

SUN PEAKS RESORT
The exhilaration runs high as you take on the highest vertical drop in the Thompson Okanagan, go wild on phenomenal glade runs, and take the kids on some impeccably groomed routes. Plaster on sunscreen and breathe deeply there are three mountains with heaps of feathery snow and more than 1,488 ha (3,678 ac) of skiable terrain. Follow Nancy Greene downhill as the Canadian Olympic gold medalist hosts free mountain tours most weekends.
in the light uff this resort fulls every skier and boarders wish list. Skiing powder runs in brilliant sunshine is almost a given here, and the fun continues after the sun goes down The Main is one of North Americas longest lit runs. Or switch sports and don snowshoes to join a tour that includes fondue.
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an average snowfall of 13.5 m (45 ft) of 100 per cent natural powder annually. With majestic Ymir Peak as a backdrop, warm up on groomed runs before indulging in some of Canadas best tree skiing.

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POWDER KING MOUNTAIN RESORT
PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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FERNIE ALPINE RESORT
Calling all steep-and-deep hounds. Some of the worlds best powder, challenging terrain and fabulous cruising runs are found in this mountains ve impressive alpine bowls. Memorable moments are guaranteed on and off the mountain as the pretty town of Fernie, rich in history and character, buzzes with activity in winter. Try the famous Griz Bar for great aprs-ski options.
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Be challenged by backcountry-style lines in Taynton Bowl or cruise freshly groomed corduroy runs on the front face theres great variety at this resort framed by the Canadian Rockies and the ancient Purcell Mountains. One-day intermediate heli-ski trips y out from the village for those seeking even more powder. Soak in hot pools as the sun sets and choose among great aprs-ski options dogsledding or glass bead-making, anyone?
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If youre seeking powder, head north to this well-named resort that caters to everyone in a laid-back way. Opportunities for gentle cruising to exhilarating tree skiing and steep black-diamond drops, plus an average annual snowfall of 12.6 m (41 ft), make this an idyllic ski destination until late April.
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SHAMES MOUNTAIN
RED MOUNTAIN RESORT
KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT
Ignite your adventuresome spirit at this resort that has plaudits piled as high as the snow. Top ski magazines consistently rank it highly when it comes to steep runs and deep powder; it is renowned for having one of the highest verticals in North America 1,260 m (4,133 ft). Challenges abound with three massive, snowladen bowls, 70 in-bound chutes, plus glade runs ranging from tricky to more wide-open. The Big Mountain Centre provides a great introduction to Kicking Horses big-mountain, in-bounds terrain with an experienced guide.
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Discover this gem near Rossland where 87 runs on two mountains offer powder-lled bowls and some of the best tree skiing in North America. Advanced to expert skiers and boarders will have a blast with the feature-rich terrain park and a skier/boarder-cross course.
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Be lured by the 45 ha (111 ac) of natural glades at one of BCs best-kept secrets. Do some laid-back cruising on the 57 ha (141 ac) of groomed runs. Wonder at the snow dumps of 12 m (40 ft) that gives Shames one of the deepest snow bases of any lift-accessed mountain in North America.
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HUDSON BAY MOUNTAIN RESORT
REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT
Check out the newest kid on the ski block it has fabulous terrain stretching into high alpine bowls and is the only resort in the world that offers lift, cat and heli-skiing from one village base. Ski and snowboard junkies be advised: Revelstoke claims the most vertical feet on the continent with a whopping 1,713 m (5,620 ft). It also boasts a 15.2-km (9.4-mi) run.
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Finding freshies (powder) is a no-brainer as the average snow depth ranges from one to two m (four to six ft) at this resort (formerly known as Ski & Ride Smithers) nestled at the top of Hudson Bay Mountain. Bask in the delight of lift-accessed powder runs and no crowds. End your day by skiing from the mountaintop all the way to Smithers on the new Rotary Community Trail to Town. Play in Rayz Terrain Park, known to be the best in the north.
KIMBERLEY ALPINE RESORT WHITEWATER WINTER RESORT
Take your little ones on a heavenly groomed run, let the daredevils take off into perfectly spaced glades and send the powder acionados to revel 56
Find your powder legs at this resort near Nelson that boasts friendly people, short lift lines and

Visit HelloBC.com/ski
Heli and snowcat skiers and boarders seeking epic adventures head for British Columbia. Wilderness terrain, top-quality snow and rst-class services abound. Stay in a remote chalet tucked into the backcountry or at a luxurious resort; every day promises powder adventures. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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heli/snowcat skiing & snowboarding
Give thanks to Mother Nature for the quality of the snow, as this range straddles a region between the Pacic Coast and the dry Chilcotin Plateau which spells heaps of powder snow and an abundance of sunshine.
SOUTHERN COAST MOUNTAINS
Carve graceful S formations on untouched powder surrounded by glaciated peaks that boast some of the worlds largest temperate-latitude iceelds. Heli-skiing runs range from 400 to 1,500 vertical metres (1,300 5,000 vertical feet) and cat skiing runs range from 365 to 1,070 vertical metres (1,200 3,500 vertical feet) in this region that is centred in the Whistler and Pemberton valleys. Depart Whistler for a single- or multi-day heli or snowcat excursion and return to the comforts and excitement of the world-class village have a spa treatment, eat hearty fare and, if youre so inclined, party wildly.
Be whisked to remote, high places alongside some of Canadas oldest and most famous national parks to experience huge alpine bowls that will take your breath away.
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SKEENA & NORTHERN COAST RANGES
SELKIRK MOUNTAINS
Set your sights high and trace fresh tracks in this rugged range anked by picturesque Arrow, Kinbasket and Kootenay lakes. Way up here at some 3,100 m (10,170 ft), you will be welcomed by terric bowls and views of seemingly never-ending snow-crowned peaks. Check out Revelstoke Mountain Resort, which caters to powderhounds, providing lift, heli and cat access to as much as 202,000 hectares (500,000 acres) of skiable terrain.
Skiers and boarders up for the big challenge read: waist-deep powder and vast backcountry head to these mountains where heli-ski operators are the ticket to ride. Live in luxury at riverside and mountain lodges, hop on the big bird and carve virgin snow that reaches levels of 30 m (100 ft) annually. Access as much as 8,900 sq km (3,450 sq mi) of terrain where dumps of deep powder blanket the landscape well into late spring.
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NORTHERN CARIBOO MOUNTAINS
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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MONASHEE & CARIBOO RANGES
CENTRAL COAST MOUNTAINS
Gear up for an exhilarating ride down open bowls, over drop-offs and then down into deep valleys to play among some of the continents best tree skiing. Stay in luxurious lodges and access as much as 4,860 square kilometres (1,880 square miles) of snow-heaped wilderness. Be assured your snow prayers will be answered some of this region falls within one of the worlds largest and most consistent snowbelts.
Pick your challenges from vast open glaciers, steep and deep couloirs and au naturel glades amid the towering peaks of these coastal giants. Experience why these summits are renowned for dry, powder snow and stunning scenery.
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If you have been there, done that, head to this rugged, remote region outside of McBride where you ski or board at elevations from 1,100 to 3,000 m (3,600 9,800 ft). Carve to perfection on glaciated plateaus, open ridges and through perfectly spaced forest to enjoy seemingly endless virgin territory.
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NORTHERN ROCKIES
SOUTH CHILCOTIN MOUNTAINS
The long, challenging runs in this region may be the unsung hero of the heli-skiing world.
Tear down or make graceful curves in this snow-heaped playground of more than 8,000 sq km (3,100 sq mi) outside Hudsons Hope. Spend nights in a cosy lodge in the Muskwa and Hart ranges, and spend days gliding through dry, velvety powder.
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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BUGABOO MOUNTAINS
ATLIN
For the biggest adrenalin rush, experience the place where heli-skiing was born. Depart the elegant, mountain-surrounded lodge and be whisked to hidden-away snow stashes to follow a guide into wild, untouched terrain. Glide down glaciers surrounded by massive granite spires and peaks as high as 3,400 m (11,150 ft) the Bugaboos are renowned for their precipitous mountain scenery. End your day with a well-deserved soak in the hot tub.
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YUKON
>> HELI/SNOWCAT SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

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NWT
SOUTHERN COAST MOUNTAINS MONASHEE & CARIBOO RANGES BUGABOO MOUNTAINS PURCELL MOUNTAINS ROCKY MOUNTAINS SELKIRK MOUNTAINS CENTRAL COAST MOUNTAINS SOUTH CHILCOTIN MOUNTAINS SKEENA & NORTHERN COAST RANGES NORTHERN CARIBOO MOUNTAINS NORTHERN ROCKIES
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FORT NELSON
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ALASKA
BELL II
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STEWART
HUDSONS HOPE
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FORT ST. JOHN
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PURCELL MOUNTAINS
PRINCE RUPERT
Touch down into a skier/boarder wonderland of far-reaching alpine slopes, scenic glaciers and untouched forests to experience soft pillows of snow. Stay at memorable, tucked-away alpine resorts or in historic Rocky Mountain towns to access a region that is graced with annual snowfalls of up to 11 m (36 ft).
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BELLA COOLA
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McBRIDE VALEMOUNT WILLIAMS LAKE BLUE RIVER PORT HARDY
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REVELSTOKE KAMLOOPS WHISTLER KELOWNA NANAIMO GOLDEN
INVERMERE
RADIUM HOT SPRINGS
ROCKY MOUNTAINS
Ski or board in the legendary Rocky Mountains, acclaimed for their massive iceelds and quality light snow.
VANCOUVER ISLAND
MEADOW CREEK
ALBERTA
VANCOUVER VICTORIA
PENTICTON
FERNIE CRANBROOK
USA
HelloBC.com 57
Heli/Snowcat Skiing & Snowboarding contd:

HELI-SKIING: Heli-skiing accesses vast, expansive terrain, is generally more expensive than cat-skiing and offers longer but fewer runs per day. Heli-skiing can be booked for single days or for two- to seven-day inclusive packages with accommodation ranging from deluxe y-in lodges to rustic, backcountry cabins. Tours vary according to the type of helicopter used, size of group and type of accommodation. Departures may be delayed due to inclement weather. CAT-SKIING: Snowcats are similar to equipment used for trail grooming except they are larger, with an extended cab on the back with room for approximately 12 to 14 people. It is generally less expensive than heli-skiing, and also less dependent on the weather. Cat-skiing offers more runs per day than heliskiing, though they are usually shorter runs. Tours can be booked for a half-day, full day or, as outlined above, as an all-inclusive package. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Most operators require their guests to be at least a condent blue run skier/boarder, but some offer more gentle terrain for rst-time
Photo: Tourism BC/Randy Lincks
powder skiers/boarders and will organize groups according to ability. Learn how to use your avalanche transceiver during orientation. All of BCs heli- and snowcat-skiing operators follow strict safety guidelines, and certied guides accompany you to help ensure a safe experience. Access a full description of individual operators at HeliCat Canadas website.
Visit HelloBC.com/heliski or HeliCat Canada at www.helicatcanada.com
Monashee Mountains, Thompson Okanagan

Photo: Colin Zacharias/Mustang Powder Lodge
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Surrounded by snow and the silence of undisturbed nature this is the world of the crosscountry or backcountry skier. British Columbia offers endless opportunities for both peaceful track-set experiences and challenging wilderness excursions.
cross-country skiing & backcountry touring
VANcOUVER ISLAND
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MOUNT WAShINGTON ALPINE RESORT
Be wowed by the extensive trail system with track-set and skating trails; some are lift serviced. Skiers seeking variety will appreciate the 55 kilometres (33 miles) of trails partially located within spectacular Strathcona Provincial Park. Savour the fact that an average of 10.5 metres (34 feet) of snow falls annually.
Rating: Beginner to advanced
Get the gang together for group lessons, then head to Hollyburn Lodge for snacks and drinks the homey lodge has been sheltering skiers since 1926. Enrol in a day clinic or multi-session program to improve your technique.
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Extensive backcountry areas accessible by four-wheel-drive (with snow chains); suitable for various levels of skiers. Tetrahedron Provincial Park offers 15 km (9 mi) of marked trails, skiable until May (yes, theres snow until then!). Take your gear and bunk in one of the four 12-person cabins scattered throughout the park. Cross-country ski or telemark the high plateau in the Dakota Ridge area and take in sweeping views over the North Shore Mountains, Howe Sound and Vancouver Island.
Tetrahedron rating: Intermediate to advanced Dakota Ridge rating: Beginner to advanced
SUNShINE COAST
MANNING PARK RESORT
VANcOUVER, cOAST & mOUNTAINS

CALLAGhAN VALLEY AND WhISTLER OLYmPIc PARK
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These two connected trail systems boast approximately 90 km (56 mi) of cross-country trails, many of which are expertly groomed. Test your mettle where athletes once glided for gold Whistler Olympic Park was the venue for cross-country skiing as well as ski jumping and biathlon events during the 2010 Winter Games. Take a guided tour to learn about the venue. Head to the rolling terrain of Callaghan Valley for a good workout, breathtaking scenery and impressive snowfalls.
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A premier cross-country destination; amenities include a full-service resort and access to serene backcountry. Spend the weekend in a woodsy lodge, practise on more than 30 km (19 mi) of groomed trails or explore some of the 190 km (120 mi) of wilderness and advanced cross-country trails. Terric for families the cross-country ski program even caters to children as young as three years old yet it is renowned with the backcountry set as well.
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ThOmPSON OKANAGAN
7 CLEARwATER/WELLS GRAY PROVINcIAL PARK
Discover a veritable banquet of Nordic ski opportunities in and around the 540,000-hectare (1.3 million-acre) wilderness park. Warm up on some of the 80 km (50 mi) of groomed tracks around Clearwater and within the park. At Wells Gray Provincial Park take a multi-day, hut-to-hut guided or do-it-yourself backcountry ski tour on high alpine meadows covered with a mantle of powder.
Groomed trails rating: Beginner to advanced Backcountry rating: Backcountry skills required
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A short drive from downtown Vancouver lies one of Canadas most popular cross-country ski destinations, where 19 km (12 mi) of track-set trails loop through the forest; a portion of these are lit for night skiing.
CYPRESS MOUNTAIN
Sign up for a three- to four-day alpine excursion that links Whistler and Blackcomb via a horseshoe-shaped backcountry traverse. Take your camera for dramatic shots of glacier-blanketed pinnacles along this route that has been compared to Europes Haute Route. Most groups begin in Blackcomb and nish in Whistler with a well-deserved celebratory party at one of the village pubs or restaurants.
Rating: Advanced backcountry
SPEARhEAD TRAVERSE
Classic, skate and backcountry acionados will rejoice in the 125 km (78 mi) of trails more than 40 km (25 mi) are track set in this snowy haven near Salmon Arm. Glide through old-growth forest, follow wildlife tracks, arrive at high viewpoints for dazzling panoramas and warm up in a cosy chalet.
9 SOVEREIGN LAKE NORDIc CENTRE, SILVER STAR PROVINcIAL PARK
LARch HILLS SKI AREA
One of the premier cross-country ski areas in North America with more than 100 km (60 mi) of manicured trails. At an elevation of 1,664 m (5,500 ft), the snow is abundant and perfectly packed for ideal gliding. A day lodge, a ski school, rentals and other services on the mountain keep you well equipped.
KOOTENAY ROcKIES
Zoom in by helicopter to what is considered one of Canadas top backcountry ski experiences. Be challenged by diverse topography and savour the stunning mountain snowscapes. Bed down in the Bill Putnam (Fairy Meadow) Hut, but book early as the 20-person lodge is well known by backcountry acionados.
Rating: Advanced backcountry HelloBC.com 59
10 FAIRY
MEADOwS
Backcountry Skiing, Red Mountain Resort, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Tourism BC/Dave Heath
Cross-country Skiing & Backcountry Touring contd:

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SMITHERS
A 45-km (28-mi) trail network groomed for both classic and skate skiing weaves through a spruce forest above town. Head out for a nighttime ski on 5.5 km (3.4 mi) of lit trails or bring your canine pal on Pooch Paradise, a 4.5-km (2.8-mi) loop trail dedicated for dogs and their owners. Stroll the red-bricked Main Street in Smithers and stop in at a local bakery for a gooey cinnamon bun.
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TERRACE/KITIMAT
Bask in the beauty of the Coast Mountain Range as you slide along easy-to-access trails totalling 25 km (15.5 mi), located south of Terrace. End your day with a night ski on the ve-km (three-mi) lit trail, then soak at nearby Mount Layton Hot Springs.
Red Mountain Resort, Kootenay Rockies

Photo: Tourism BC/Dave Heath
PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Go with a guide if you dont know the area or winter safety practices (e.g., avalanche avoidance). Always tell someone where you are going. GUIDED TOURS: Enjoy single- or multi-day trips appropriate for your skill level. Tour operators can outt you with equipment and provide instruction.
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NATURAL BRIDGE TRAILS
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QUESNEL
Take your time and keep watch for wildlife or set a strong stride along 50 km (31 mi) of groomed trails set for classic and skate skiing located just outside of Kootenay National Park. Glide on a bridge above a natural rock crossing that arches over a 30-m (100-ft) gorge and the Cross River. Stay at a picturesque timber frame lodge, book a cross-country lesson and soak in nearby Radium Hot Springs.
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Set your skis on a series of well-maintained trails at Hallis Lake and Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park. Enjoy the variety of trails beginners can ski fairly at terrain at Ten Mile Lake while more advanced skiers can challenge themselves on a 16-km (10-mi) marathon loop at Hallis Lake.
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Visit HelloBC.com/crosscountry
WELLS/BARKERVILLE
YOHO NATIONAL PARK
Explore 185 km (115 mi) of trails, including 40 km (25 mi) of track-set ones, amid the beauty of the rugged Rocky Mountains. Set out from Emerald Lake (rentals are available) to ski treed routes and even over a frozen alpine lake.
Explore approximately 100 km (62 mi) of formal trails, plus a wide-reaching landscape. Groomed and ungroomed routes through a wetland in the Cornish Mountain Non-Motorized Recreation Area offer wildlife viewing possibilities and eye-catching scenery. Ski a section of the old Cariboo Waggon Road that takes you to picturesque Barkerville Historic Town.
Sit warm and snug on a sled as a team of enthusiastic huskies pulls you along a snowy trail. This age-old, romantic mode of travel is the winter experience of a lifetime. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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dogsledding
WHISTLER

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PRINCE GEORGE
100 MILE HOUSE & 108 MILE RANCH
The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is arguably the heartland of cross-country skiing, with seemingly endless possibilities for snow touring. Set out on groomed trails there are 150 km (93 mi) of them meandering in and around 100 Mile House and 108 Mile Ranch, some of which are lit at night. Combine ski time with spa time and loads of other activities at a health ranch.
An extensive 40-km (25-mi) network of groomed trails ve km (three mi) of which are lit at night awaits cross-country enthusiasts at the local Nordic centre. There are also ungroomed trails nearby for skiers looking to make their own tracks. Almost any outdoor activity is possible in Prince George, known as BCs northern capital; you can also check out the wide range of museums, restaurants, heritage sites, and top attractions like the Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre.
On a scenic ride in the Soo Valley, Alaskan racing huskies do the work; go for an hour or the whole day. Help harness the dogs and learn about mushing as you glide alongside the river on a 2.5-hour excursion, or book an extended tour where you can take charge of your own team of dogs.
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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SUN PEAKS RESORT
Take a guided tour and be a passenger or hook up and mush your own team of Alaskan huskies through the glistening white landscape. Professional guides give you lessons, then you take your team for a run on the many wide-open spaces or through the trees.
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KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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FERNIE, KIMBERLEY & PANORAMA
Learn to mush or just snuggle in the sled and let a master musher direct the enthusiastic team in a spectacular mountain setting. Book a half-day or full-day tour. Visit nearby Elkford to watch the annual Wilderness Classic Sled Dog Derby in January, which features dogsledding and the growing sport of skijoring (being pulled on skis by a dog).
Bond with your team of friendly Siberian huskies as you get to know the dogs personalities and the commands to lead them. Tours wind through meadows and scenic forested trails in the Hart Highlands. Stop to share stories and snacks around a campre. In summer and fall, presentations and dog team demonstrations are a fun way to meet the dogs and learn about the history of dogsledding in the area.
If you can walk, you can snowshoe. Strap on this fun mode of transportation and explore snowy terrain. Theres no better way to work out, see some wildlife and enjoy the solitude. Or sign up with a group for a big foot tramp.
snowshoeing
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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MOUNT CAIN

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CARIBOO REGION
Fly over rolling, snow-covered hills on half-day, full-day or overnight adventures; ideal snow conditions and vast, open terrain make this region perfect for dogsledding. Watch the annual Cariboo Challenge Sled Dog Race, held each January in 108 Mile Ranch. If its your wish to have an envelope delivered by dog team, send it via the Gold Rush Sled Dog Mail Run between Quesnel and Barkerville in January.
GUIDED TOURS: Operators offer excursions lasting from half an hour to several days. In some cases, you may have the opportunity to drive the sled and learn the commands. Or you can just sit in the sled and relax. Some sled tours have minimum age requirements. Guests may not be permitted to drive the sled in icy conditions for safety reasons. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Dogsledding allows you to choose your participation level, making it accessible to most ages and tness levels. Bring appropriate clothing/gear including snow pants, winter coat, winter boots, hat and gloves. The season typically runs from December through March.
Follow this mountains rugged terrain as it ranges from gentle subalpine to mountaineering steeps. Come equipped with light touring equipment for subalpine trails; three peaks at 1,500 metres (4,921 feet) are within a ve-kilometre (three-mile) radius.
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MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT

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Make fresh tracks through alpine meadows and along forest trails; 20 km (12 mi) of trails wind over rolling hills and gentle terrain. Book ahead for an evening snowshoe tour and end your adventure in the powder with a three-course fondue dinner. VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS
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MCBRIDE/VALEMOUNT
Play fur trader as a team of spirited Alaskan racing huskies transports you along a centuryold trapline that meanders through a scenic valley in the Northern Rocky Mountains. Stop midway for hot apple cider and lunch prepared on a campre or in a cosy log cabin.
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VANCOUVERS LOCAL MOUNTAINS

Visit HelloBC.com/dogsledding
PRINCE GEORGE
Experience the beauty of the north on a threeto ve-day tour, or just try it out for the afternoon. Return to your cosy room each night.
TRAVEL TIPS
Three mountains, each an easy drive from downtown Vancouver, offer expansive snowshoeing areas. Sign up for a starry trek at any of Cypress, Grouse or Seymour mountains. Make big tracks along forested trails and soft, uffy meadows, then be rewarded with fondue in a cosy lodge high above Vancouvers lights.
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MANNING PROVINCIAL PARK
Pack up the family and head for this winter wonderland in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Stay in a lodge and spend days following trails suitable for every level of ability.
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WHISTLER & PEMBERTON
Hop the gondola to a mountaintop and trek through a silent forest on a guided excursion. Try an evening tour through the forests of Whistler Valley, followed by a three-course fondue dinner in the village.
THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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THOMPSON OKANAGAN
Mount Seymour, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

Photo: Tourism BC/Insight Photography
Fluffy snow, convenient trails and terric packages are available at the many ski resorts in this winter paradise region. Learn about wildlife tracks in a snowy forest on scheduled tours at Silver Star in Vernon; both Apex Mountain near Penticton and Mount Baldy near Osoyoos offer many kilometres of marked trails to choose from.
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Snowshoeing contd:
Outt the family with snowshoes and head for easily accessed trails near Sun Peaks; book a guided tour that can include a snowshoe marshmallow roast or learning about the lynx that inhabit the local mountains. Be adventurous and take a guided, multi-day trip in the Wells Gray Provincial Park area to explore diverse terrain ranging from subalpine meadows to steep slopes. GUIDED TOURS: In addition to rentals and clinics, excellent guided tours are available at most ski resorts. Not only will you love the exercise, camaraderie and delicious snacks, you will learn about nature and, in some cases, how early-day settlers utilized this form of transportation. DO IT YOURSELF: Rent snowshoes from an outdoor shop, at a ski resort or bring your own.
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A full-on blaze across an open, snowpillowed valley; a highly technical ride dodging trees to reach alpine ridges; or a wide-open ride across a frozen lake sledders exult in the endless opportunities within BC.
snowmobile adventures
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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KOOTENAY ROCKIES

BRALORNE
Locals will direct you to community trails that showcase magnicent mountain terrain. Specialized tours available through ski resorts or backcountry lodges provide fun snowshoe experiences combined with treats such as chocolate fondue or a moonlit trek using headlamps.

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Here youll nd rolling, snow-draped ranchland, tranquil forests and delightful winter days with pleasant temperatures and lots of sunshine. Set out along parts of the original Gold Rush Trail and ash back to the adventuresome days when gold seekers trekked this route. Get a workout on crunchy early morning snow, then head for the spa at a health resort.
PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Be prepared for variable weather conditions. Bring good winter boots, layered outerwear, water-resistant jackets and pants, toques and gloves. Snowshoeing is a fun activity for all ages and skill levels. Modern snowshoes make for a very easy learning experience; they are small and light, and typically consist of an aluminum frame with rubber and/or nylon webbing. For rst-hand knowledge about the area and winter safety practices (e.g., avalanche avoidance) explore the backcountry with a guide.
From Pemberton, sledders can take a leisurely guided ride to the historic mining town of Bralorne, enjoy a hearty pub lunch and return the same day. The terrain ranges from steep slopes to gentle bowls, which make it an ideal destination for snowmobilers of all levels.
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PEMBERTON
Treat yourself to snowmobiling across a glacier on a guided trip to the Pemberton Ice Cap. This haven of mountains north of Whistler is a veritable playground for sledders.
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WHISTLER

Visit HelloBC.com/snowshoeing

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Incredible snowshoeing exists practically everywhere in Northern British Columbia, from small-town trails to upscale wilderness resorts. The Rocky Mountains, Coast Mountains and other spectacular mountain ranges will dazzle with abundant wilderness, snow and breathtaking views.
TRANSPORTATION
Tours follow extensive trail networks and deep powder to give both rst-timers and experts a thrilling ride. Ride to Crystal Hut high on Blackcomb Mountain for a warm-up and fondue dinner, or stop at a backcountry yurt for a hot drink and a snack. The Cougar Mountain area is ideal for beginners and family tours. Ride through an ancient cedar forest or over frozen alpine lakes.
Mt Seymour... For the Most Snow!

Mt Seymour is Vancouvers starting gate to winter recreation. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing and tobogganing in this winter playground. Mt Seymour has been the choice of outdoor enthusiasts for over 70 years. Ph: 604-986-2261 www.MountSeymour.com Snowshoeing in the Thompson Okanagan
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THOMPSON OKANAGAN
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REVELSTOKE
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TERRACE
LOGAN LAKE & ENDERBY
In the heart of the Highland Valley, the Logan Lake area boasts more than 500 kilometres (311 miles) of marked trails, many of them ideal for family riding. The Hunters Range Trail System near Enderby offers approximately 200 km (124 mi) of vast terrain for all riding abilities and is considered to be one the best snowmobiling ranges in Canada.
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Beginners and expert sledders will revel in riding deep powder routes of the Selkirk and Monashee mountains, where an average of almost 18 metres (60 feet) of snow falls annually. Some of the most popular areas are easily accessible from the highway.
Discover 80 km (50 mi) of groomed routes diligently maintained by the locals who will point you in the right direction. Sled seven mountain ranges all within an hours drive of Terrace. Beginners to experts will love the alpine terrain that ranges from 300 to 1,680 m (1,000 5,500 ft).
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TUMBLER RIDGE
VALEMOUNT & SICAMOUS
100 MILE HOUSE
Arrive in small towns surrounded by mountain ranges that are stepping-off points for snowmobiling adventures. Pack your sled for the day and discover why Valemount has received many awards and accolades for being one of BCs favourite snowmobiling areas. Explore four spectacular riding areas and hundreds of kilometres of groomed and ungroomed trails all within minutes of Sicamous.
Explore a large trail network that weaves through the pristine wilderness. Have fun following the trails or set out into the backcountry; the rolling terrain includes snow-covered meadows and frozen lakes.
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TWEEDSMUIR PROVINCIAL PARK
Join the northerners who zoom over deep snow and enjoy a long season in the foothills of the Rockies. Explore Moose Lake, Windy Ridge and Terminator Peak, thanks to directions from the local snowmobile club. Bask in tremendous variety with more than 300 km (190 mi) of well-designated trails. GUIDED TOURS: Many ski resorts offer a wide range of snowmobile tours, from beginner to backcountry. Professional guides will lead and instruct you in the basics and techniques of snowmobiling. Snowmobiles, helmets and sometimes outerwear are provided on guided tours. Tours range from short introductory rides to multi-day trips through backcountry. DO IT YOURSELF: If youre feeling adventurous or have previous experience, snowmobiles are available for day rentals from shops, guest ranches and winter resorts; enjoy the freedom of unstructured riding. PRACTICAL POINTS & SAFETY: Always check avalanche conditions. Do not ride in avalanche-prone country without a guide. Never ride alone. Helmets are mandatory. Respect the landscape, wildlife and other outdoor enthusiasts.
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
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FERNIE
Play in seemingly bottomless powder piles in the majestic Elk Valley region; follow your guide through incredible wilderness. Terrain ranges from mild groomed trails for beginners to wild backcountry options for experienced sledders.
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A designated area zoned for snowmobiling at Heckman Pass provides riders with the opportunity to enjoy winter exploring in this rugged wilderness park that is revered by outdoor enthusiasts. Overnight in a cabin that can be reserved through the Tweedsmuir Ski Club.
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WELLS/BARKERVILLE
GOLDEN
Follow winding, snow-crusted routes that lure you sky-high among the trees to breathtaking panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. More than 10 trailheads lead to plenty of options for riders of all abilities. Rent a snowmobile or join a guided excursion.
With an abundance of trails in the area, Wells caters to snowmobilers, making it easy to ride through town and buy trail passes. Take the family for a ride along Sugar Creek Loops groomed trails, enjoy alpine riding at Bald Mountain or glide through untouched powder at Yanks Peak with spectacular views of the Cariboo Mountains (for experienced and expert riders only).

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PRINCE GEORGE
Enjoy zooming around the more than 620 km (385 mi) of trails in this region that are maintained by an active snowmobile community. Gear up for the big ride a popular 170-km (105-mi) trail links Prince George with historic Barkerville.

Visit HelloBC.com/snowmobiling
Daily Tours Multi-day Tours - Resort Based and Backcountry Lodge Now Offering Dogsled Tours
Silver Star Mountain Resort, Thompson Okanagan

HelloBC.com 63
Toby Creek.indd 1 11/15/07 10:56:47 AM
QUESNEL
( )
Heritage Discovery Adventure Route

Seek out the adventure of a lifetime, from hiking and biking to camping and caving, against a backdrop of historic locales around BC. This 10- to 14-day route is about 2,423 km (1,506 mi), excluding ferry distances.
1 In Vancouver, hike or mountain bike the trails of the famed North Shore, or
rent a kayak and paddle False Creek or Deep Cove. Travel east through the rich farm country of the Fraser Valley to Hope; take a one-hour detour east on Hwy 3 to Manning Park to hike through the subalpine meadows or canoe on Lightning Lake. Continue on Hwy 1 towards Lytton and take a guided rafting trip down the mighty Fraser, Thompson or Nahatlatch rivers.
2 Continue north to Hwy 97 and take a detour east along Hwy 24, the famous
Fishing Highway where more than 100 lakes are within about an hours drive. Make a side trip on Hwy 26 to tackle the world-famous Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit, a 6- to 10-day trip (or take the two- to four-day trip on the west side of the circuit).
3 In Prince George, bike the Cranbrook Hill Greenway or Forests for the World,
keeping watch for moose, bears and deer. Continue west on Hwy 16 to the alpine-themed community of Smithers and hike to the viewing platform for a scenic panorama of Twin Falls or embark on an overnight mountain biking or hiking excursion to the craggy peaks and subalpine meadows of Babine Mountains Provincial Park. Head south on Hwy 37 to Kitimat, a stunning adventure playground recalling the fjords of Norway, and stop in lively Terrace, an anglers hotbed, to stroll the Grand Trunk Pathway and learn the history of this Skeena River city.
4 In Prince Rupert, board a ferry for a detour to the Queen Charlotte Islands
(Haida Gwaii). Arrange a kayak tour among the many islands of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, or visit Naikoon Provincial Park with almost 100 km (60 mi) of sandy beaches. Back in Prince Rupert, board another BC Ferry for Port Hardy via the scenic Inside Passage, where wildlife sightings of whales, eagles and dolphins are common. West of Port Hardy, Cape Scott Provincial Park offers rugged coastal hikes lled with sandy beaches and rainforest.
5 Drive south to Port McNeill or Telegraph Cove to take a whale-watching boat
or kayak tour; the area around Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve is home to approximately 200 Orcas. Continue south on Hwy 19 to Mount Washington to access 18 mountain biking trails via high-speed chairlifts or to Cumberland for fast single-track. Just east of beautiful Qualicum Beach, take a guided tour, or go on your own, to discover caverns lled with crystal formations and ancient fossils at Horne Lake Caves.
6 In Victoria, kayak from the Inner Harbour or hike coastal rainforest trails with
Kitwancool
numerous parks to choose from. Finally, relax on another scenic cruise with BC Ferries back to sunny Tsawwassen, just south of Vancouver.
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Mountains & Vineyards Adventure Route

Embark on a 7- to 10-day escape that offers a taste of mountain grandeur, the succulent fruits of the Okanagan and endless outdoor adventure. About 1,221 km (759 mi).
1 Begin your journey in Golden, a tranquil town set on the banks of the
Columbia River. Go whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River or birdwatching in the world-renowned Columbia Wetlands. Ride the gondola to the top of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for panoramic mountain views, great hiking and 27 mountain biking trails including a 1,128-m (3,700-ft) descent. Just east of Golden is Yoho National Park, with astonishing landscapes of 28 peaks over 3,000 m (9,843 ft), glacial lakes and one of Canadas highest waterfalls, Takakkaw. The park offers over 400 km (249 mi) of hiking trails catering to every skill level.
2 Following the Columbia River, drive south on Hwy 95/93 and stop for a
steamy soak in the rejuvenating, mineral-rich pools at Radium and Fairmont hot springs.
3 Then drive to Kimberley, where youll nd an extensive mountain biking trail
network through Kimberley Nature Park and Lois Creek. In Cranbrook, hike up 2,900-m (9,514-ft) Mount Fisher, the highest peak in the southern Canadian Rockies. As you head north from Creston along Hwy 3A, sh, swim or paddle in Kootenay Lake, known for its giant Gerrard rainbow trout. Take a 35-minute ferry trip the worlds longest free ferry crossing across Kootenay Lake from Kootenay Bay to Balfour.
4 Follow Hwy 3A south to historic Nelson with its 350 restored heritage
buildings, well-known arts community and excellent mountain biking and rock climbing opportunities. Take an excursion on Hwy 3B to the 19th-century town of Rossland, known as Canadas mountain biking capital. Theres also great camping available in nearby provincial parks, such as Champion Lakes with its three lakes offering swimming, canoeing, kayaking and shing.
5 Drive along Hwy 3 to Hwy 97 and north to the Okanagan Valley. In Oliver,
cycle to local wineries or follow the Hike & Bike trail along the Okanagan River. In Penticton, rock climb on the Skaha Bluffs with more than 600 established routes, or cycle the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. Vernon offers paragliding and awesome mountain biking at nearby Silver Star Mountain Resort. In the Shuswap area, nd spots to hike, bike and camp along the 1,000 km (620 mi) of shoreline, or go swimming, shing or boating at one of the many lakes.
6 Follow the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 to the alpine city of Revelstoke. Hike the
many trails through old-growth forest in Mount Revelstoke or Glacier national parks for some backcountry camping to complete your trip.
Bugaboo Provincial Park
For more driving routes, visit HelloBC.com/drive
HelloBC.com 65
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trip. Youll nd maps, suggested driving routes and helpful information to show you the best of BC. These self-guided routes help you explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Each route boasts a variety of destinations consider one of nine looped Circle Routes for an adventure that brings you back to the same place you began, or check out other suggested driving routes all are exible, easy to navigate and a hassle-free way to create your ideal holiday.
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DROP BY OUR VISITOR CENTRES
There are local experts at Visitor Centres in over 100 communities throughout BC. They are ready to provide you with all sorts of insider information, including details about special events and places that only the locals know about. They can also help you book approved accommodations, tours and activities on the spot when you are there.
CALL1- 800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622) Talk one-on-one with a British Columbia travel expert Book from over 700 places to stay, as well as tours,
In Metro Vancouver, call 604-HELLO BC (604-435-5622),
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outside North America, call 250-387-1642
Visit HelloBC.com/visitorinfo for more information
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With all there is to see and do, theres one place to plan and book: HelloBC.com
Get the information you need to help plan the perfect British Columbia vacation. Where to go, what to see and where to stay. You can also book your trip online at HelloBC.com or by calling 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622, or in Metro Vancouver call 604-HELLO BC). And when youre in BC, stop by one of the many Visitor Centres for even more up-to-the-minute travel information.
Visit us at HelloBC.com to start planning your BC experience.
Travel Information
Visitor Centres Driving Laws & Regulations
DRiveRS LiceNceS: A valid out-of-province RAiL TRAveL: Train travel can be a romantic and memorable way to see BC; train service is offered throughout much of the province. VIA Rail Canada: 1-888 VIA RAIL (1-888-842-7245) or www.viarail.ca. BUS TRAveL: Intercity buses service the entire province with the added advantage of downtownto-downtown service. Greyhound Canada: 1-800661-8747 or www.greyhound.ca; Pacic Coach Lines: 1-800-661-1725 or www.paciccoach.com. PUbLic TRANSiT: Public transportation systems
drivers licence (including an international licence) can be used in BC for up to six months.
SeATbeLTS must be worn by drivers and
Local experts in more than 100 communities throughout British Columbia give you the lay of the land and ll you in on all sorts of details, including special events and places only the locals know about. They can also help you book approved accommodations, tours and activities. Watch for this sign as you travel throughout the province, and visit HelloBC.com/visitorcentres for a complete listing of the Visitor Centre locations.
passengers. Strict car/booster seat regulations are in place for children up to nine years old or 145 centimetres (57 inches) tall. For more details visit www.icbc.com/road_safety.
HeLMeTS: Required for all bicyclists and
motorcyclists.
DRiNKiNG AND DRiviNG: It is a criminal offence to operate, or be in the care or control of a vehicle, whether in motion or not, with a blood alcohol content of more than .08 per cent. Breath samples may be requested by a peace ofcer. VehicLe AcciDeNTS: If you are involved in an
are found in cities and larger towns throughout BC. Metro Vancouvers buses, SkyTrain and other services are operated by TransLink (www.translink. bc.ca). Transit services in Victoria, Prince George, Kelowna and numerous other communities are overseen by BC Transit (www.bctransit.com).
Customs Information
ENTRY iNTO CANADA: International
Emergency Information
eMeRGeNcY 911: In emergency situations, contact the local police, ambulance service or re department by calling 911. TOURiST ALeRT: The news media and many tourist facilities work with the RCMP to communicate urgent messages to visitors. If you see or hear your name, phone the number given. HOSpiTAL AND MeDicAL SeRviceS: Visitors from outside Canada should clarify coverage provided by their personal insurance carriers and may wish to obtain additional health insurance before coming to BC.
visitors to Canada who are not US citizens must be in possession of a valid national passport and may also require a visa. Contact the nearest Canadian Consulate or Embassy for more information. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires all persons who enter or re-enter the United States via air, land or sea from any foreign destination to have a passport or other accepted form of documentation. For more information, visit www.travel. state.gov or www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel.
PLeASURe BOATS/PRivATe AiRcRAFT:
accident, immediately contact the local police or RCMP, then your insurance company.
RiGhT ON ReD: You may turn right on a red light
after a full stop, unless signs indicate otherwise.
Getting Around
AiR TRAveL: Most major destinations in British
Columbia can be accessed by Air Canada and WestJet. As well, regional airlines have scheduled service throughout the province.
ROAD TRAveL: British Columbia has an excellent highway system, with distances and speed limits clearly posted in metric on highway signs. For road conditions visit www.DriveBC.ca. FeRRY SeRviceS: BC Ferries serves almost 50
Boaters must contact Canada Customs upon arrival at an approved reporting site. Private aircraft must contact Canada Customs prior to arrival. For further information concerning customs regulations contact the Canadian Border Services Agency at 1-800-461-9999 (within Canada), 204-983-3500 (outside Canada) or visit www.cbsa.gc.ca 68
Services for Persons with Disabilities

HeARiNG IMpAiRMeNT: Services are
ports of call along the BC coastline. For information on fares, routes and times, or to make reservations, visit www.bcferries.com or call (toll-free in North America) 1-888 BC FERRY (1-888-223-3779). Outside North America, call 250-386-3431.
available at the Western Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 604-736-7391 (voice) and 604-736-2527 (TTY), or visit www.widhh.com.
WheeLchAiR AcceSSibiLiTY: British Columbia Paraplegic Association: 1-877-324-3611, 604-324-3611 or visit www.bcpara.org.
CReDiT CARDS/TRAveLLeRS CheQUeS:
Generally, Visa, MasterCard and travellers cheques are accepted by most places of business.
MeTRic CONveRSiON: Canada uses the metric system. See HelloBC.com/travelinfo for conversion examples. TiMe ZONeS: Most of BC is on Pacic Standard Time, which is one hour behind Mountain Standard Time (Alberta and some eastern areas of BC) and three hours behind Eastern Standard Time (Ontario/New York). Daylight Savings Time changes take place on the second Sunday in March (the clocks move ahead one hour) and the rst Sunday in November (clocks move back one hour). ELecTRiciTY: The electrical current in Canada
National & Provincial Parks

Contact the Discover Camping campground reservation service at www.discovercamping.ca or 1-800-689-9025 (604-689-9025 in Metro Vancouver). For general information on provincial parks, visit www.bcparks.ca; for national parks visit www.parkscanada.ca. Or call 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622).
is 110 volts.
Weather Information
Temperatures are generally warmer in the southern part of the province and cooler in the north. Winters are mild in the Vancouver and Victoria areas. Other areas of BC experience freezing temperatures and snow between November and March. BC summers are usually warm enough to wear shorts, short-sleeved shirts and light dresses. It is advisable to bring sweaters and trousers for cooler evenings. Spring and fall can often be warm and pleasant so summer attire is suitable along with sweaters, trousers and a light coat or jacket.
Fishing & Wildlife

SpORT FiShiNG: Separate licences are required for saltwater and freshwater sport shing in BC. For angling regulations refer to the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website at www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recsh or the Ministry of Environment website at www.env.gov.bc.ca/ fw/sh/regulations. WiLDLiFe SAFeTY INFORMATiON: Never
feed or leave food to attract a wild animal, as all wild animals are potentially dangerous. For additional information, visit the Ministry of Environment at www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/ explore/gen_info/wild_gen.html.
2010 Canadian Public Holidays

Banks, government ofces and some stores will be closed on the following days: New Years Day Good Friday Easter Monday Victoria Day Canada Day BC Day Labour Day Thanksgiving Day Remembrance Day Christmas Day Boxing Day January 1 April 2 April 5 May 24 July 1 August 2 September 6 October 11 November 11 December 25 December 26
General Information
TAXeS: Both the federal goods and services tax
(GST) of ve per cent and the provincial sales tax (PST) of seven per cent are applicable to most purchased goods and services. As of July 1, 2010, a harmonized sales tax (HST) of 12 per cent will replace the PST and GST.
CANADiAN CURReNcY EXchANGe: The
monetary system in Canada is based on dollars and cents. To avoid exchange problems, visitors are advised to exchange their funds for Canadian dollars at a bank or a foreign currency exchange outlet.
BANKS: Banks are generally open Monday to
Please visit
HelloBC.com/travelinfo
for more information.
Friday; some are open on Saturday. ATMs are found at banks and in retail areas.
HelloBC.com 69
BRITISH COLUMBIA
D I S T A N C E C H A R T (K i l o m e t r e s )
NOTE: Distances given are for the shortest routes over signed highways and do not include travel by ferries.*
HAIDA G WA I I (
U.S.A.
2009 Tourism British Columbia
70
Visit HelloBC .com/map for more detailed maps. Stop by a British Columbia Visitor Centre for a BC Road Map & Parks Guide.

British Columbia

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British Columbia

Outdoor Adventure Guide2010

Planning Tools Travel Information British Columbia Map

FOR ACCOMMODATIONS, RESERVATIONS AND TRAVEL IDEAS VISIT

HelloBC.com OR CALL 1-800 HELLO BC (1-800-435-5622)

Yoho National Park, Kootenay Rockies

DETAILED MAP ON PG.70 >>

NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

CARIBOO CHILCOTIN COAST

NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

CARIBOO CHILCOTIN COAST

VICTORIA AND THE GULF ISLANDS

VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS

Tono, Vancouver Island

Photo: Jeremy Koreski/All Canada Photos

say HELLO to the vacation of a lifetime

hiking & backpacking

VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS

JUAN DE FUCA MARINE TRAIL

GARIBALDI LAKE/BLACK TUSK TRAIL

BERG LAKE TRAIL

NOOTKA ISLAND TRAIL

SUNSHINE COAST TRAIL

WEST COAST TRAIL

>> HIKING & BACKPACKING

FORT ST. JOHN TUMBLER RIDGE

WHISTLER KELOWNA KEREMEOS

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS

PORT RENFREW SOOKE

Hiking & Backpacking contd:

HELMCKEN FALLS LODGE

VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS

Travel Easy 3-in-1! Shampoo Conditioner Soap

CATHEDRAL PROVINcIAL PARK

WELLS GRAY ADVENTURES

MOUL FALLS TRAIL

Berg Lake Trail, Mount Robson Provincial Park, Thompson Okanagan

Whistler, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains

cARIbOO cHILcOTIN cOAST

NORTHERN bRITISH cOLUmbIA

pASS mEmORIAL TRAIL

Hiking & Backpacking contd:

Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Provincial Park, Northern BC

NISGAA MEMORIAL LAVA BED PARK

LODGE BASED HIKING IN THE HIGH ALPINE

PHONE (604) 987-4722

camping & parks

PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE

WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK

PORPOISE BAY PROVINCIAL PARK

STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK

YOHO, KOOTENAY & GLACIER NATIONAL PARKS

MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK

>> CAMPING & PARKS

VANCOUVER, COAST & MOUNTAINS

BIRKENHEAD LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK

TERRACE PRINCE GEORGE

ANAHIM LAKE WILLIAMS LAKE

MANNING PROVINCIAL PARK

CAMPBELL RIVER TOFINO

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS CANAL FLATS

Camping & Parks contd:

Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, Kootenay Rockies