Tourism Guide - 2012 Creston Valley Visitors' Guide

The Beautiful

Creston Valley 2012 Visitors’ Guide

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Table of Contents

Creston Valley Visitors’ Guide 2012 is published by:

1018 Canyon Street Creston, BC PO Box 1279 V0B 1G0 Ph: 250-428-2266 Fax: 250-428-3320

Lorne Eckersley Publisher

Brian Lawrence Editor

Dianne Audette Office Manager

Anita Horton Sales Manager

Jacky Smith Montana Cull Production

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca Published by the Creston Valley Advance A division of Black Press Group Ltd. Publications Agreement No. 40069240 The contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may be used only for personal noncommercial purposes. All other rights are reserved and commercial use is prohibited. To make any use of this material you must first obtain the permission of the owner of the copyright. For further information, contact the Creston Valley Advance at 250-428-2266 or publisher@crestonvalleyadvance.ca.

Cover photos: Arnold Labrentz

Cheryl Jaggers

Welcome.........................................................................................4 Location..........................................................................................6 Life in a Small Town...............................................................7 History..............................................................................................9 Four Seasons............................................................................. 11 College of the Rockies. .....................................................20 Parks...............................................................................................22 Golf...................................................................................................24 Creston Museum....................................................................26 Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area.........28 Wine & Dine. ..............................................................................30 Farm Fresh Guide...................................................................32 Agriculture..................................................................................35 Events Calendar......................................................................36 Fresh Food...................................................................................38 Farmers’ Market.....................................................................40 International Selkirk Loop..............................................41 Arts...................................................................................................44 Creston & District Public Library. ..............................48 Lower Kootenay Band. .......................................................49 Outdoor Adventures.............................................................50 Yahk.................................................................................................53 The Lake Road. ........................................................................54 Maps. ..............................................................................................57

Cheryl Jaggers

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 3

Welcome to Creston

W

elcome to the Creston Valley and thank you for picking up the 2012 edition of the Creston Valley Visitors’ guide.

The following pages highlight many of the attractions, area business services and the idyllic lifestyle we enjoy in our beautiful valley. surrounded by the selkirk Mountains to the west, the Purcells to the east, Kootenay lake to the north and the United states border to the south, the Creston Valley is ideally situated and is home to almost 16,000 people (with 5,000 in the town of

arNOlD laBreNTZ

Creston).

Naturally abundant, the area is rich in agriculture related businesses and services and thriving agritourism. With a burgeoning wine industry, fruit and vegetable markets, handcrafted organic cheese, animal and grain farms, secondary food processing and the world famous Columbia Brewery, the Creston Valley lifestyle epitomizes the “100 mile diet”, though in our case it is really closer to 10 miles.

Our rich agriculture heritage is celebrated in the spring at our annual Blossom Festival and in the fall with our annual Fall Fair.

We have extraordinary outdoor recreation. enjoy world class boating, fishing, golf, hunting, hiking back-country skiing and snowmobiling in the area.

The ramsar designated Creston Valley Wildlife Management area is rich and biologically diverse.

Over 300 species of birds, 57 species of mammals and 29 species of fish,

reptiles and amphibians call the area home.

Other key sectors include forestry, secondary manufacturing, health services, retirement, and arts and culture.

Be sure to stop in at the Creston Visitor Centre for more information. Our centre showcases local attractions and businesses, maps, free wireless Internet, feature artisan displays and the Creston Valley rotary Club history wall. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you plan your vacation or make your relocation a smooth transition.

We look forward to seeing you!

Jim Jacobsen executive Director Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Centre 121 Northwest Blvd.

250-428-4342 1-866-528-4342 manager@crestonvalleychamber.com

Creston Valley

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May 18, 19, 20, 21, 2012 Stage Show Starring wendell FerguSon Mammoth Parade Children’s Entertainment Lion’s Street Fair Duck Race Chili Cook-off Show & Shine Car Show Millennium Park Showcase Children’s Parade Lion’s Kids Party in the Park Lion’s Pancake Breakfast

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Best!

For more information, visit our web site www.blossomfestival.ca or call 250-428-4284 Plan ahead! Next year’s Blossom Festival is May 17, 18, 19, & 20, 2013

Best!

...the Creston Valley

Welcome to the Creston Valley

Welcome to the beautiful and historic Creston Valley.

Fertile land and mild climate first drew the early settlers here and by the 1900’s Creston was established as a robust farming community. Today our abundant crops, including asparagus; peaches; apples; cherries; and more, draw people from far and wide. If it can be grown in the Okanagan, it can be grown in the Creston Valley. We invite you to check the ripening dates for local fruits and vegetables in this guide.

Beyond being the “bread basket” of the Kootenays, Creston is memorable for its awe inspiring vistas and closeness with nature. This wide, fertile valley is surrounded on all sides by the stunning Selkirk and Purcell Mountain ranges. The majestic Kootenay River winds its way through the lush flat lands. The Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, located in the heart of our valley, is a wetland of international significance (a designated RAMSAR site). Come check out the 17,000 acres of wetland rich in bird, fish and other wildlife. To be in our valley is to be surrounded by unforgettable natural beauty.

Community attractions are numerous. Play a round on the local 18 hole golf course which is usually in play from mid-March to early April, and closes for the season on or around Halloween day. Visit our wineries or the local cheese producer. Our Saturday farmers’ market is worth a visit too! Why not tour the Columbia Brewery, home of “Kokanee Beer” and take a picture with the Sasquatch? Shop or browse the local galleries and shops that display local works. If you enjoy history, a visit to the local Creston Museum and Archives is a must. Participate in the Lower Kootenay Band’s Pow Wow, held annually in May. Additionally, there are numerous festivals and events that take place in the Creston Valley year round. Check this guide for event dates.

With a little planning, you can make your visit to the Creston Valley truly unforgettable. Let our Visitor Centre assist you. We welcome your stay and invite you to visit again soon!

- Mayor Ron Toyota Town of Creston

Getting Here The Town of Creston is centrally located on Highway 3 in the Kootenay region of south-eastern British Columbia. Creston is approximately 5 hours south-west of Calgary, Alberta, and one hour west of Cranbrook, BC. Travelling east from Vancouver, Creston is located about one and a half hours east of Nelson and Castlegar on Highway 3.

The U.S. border with Idaho is only 10 km from town; Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint and the cities of Spokane, Coeur D’Alene and Kalispell are all accessible within 30 minutes to 3 hours drive by car.

Many residents enjoy the relaxed pace of life and relatively low cost of living in Creston and the easy access to larger centres when they want them.

Public Parking and Trails

Visitors to the Town of Creston are encouraged to park in one of our public parking lots and walk to enjoy the shops, restaurants and events of downtown Creston. RV-accessible parking is available north of Millennium Park on 16th Avenue South. A free sani-dump is also available at the same location, from April to October.

When visiting our downtown follow the adjacent Rotary Centennial Loop Trail to access the Cook Street parking lot, and the pedestrian walk-

Many travellers choose to take scenic Highway 3A, when travelling between Nelson and Creston. The unique Kootenay Lake Ferry between Balfour and Kootenay Bay offers a taste of adventure, and stunning lake views. The ferry is free, and follows a regular schedule. There is a Greyhound Bus service in Creston, connecting to both Cranbrook and Nelson daily.

Air service is available in both Cranbrook (international) and Castlegar, with flights to Calgary and Vancouver several times a day. The Creston Valley Regional Airport is suitable for light aircraft and small charter planes.

through to the shops and services on Canyon Street and adjacent side streets.

Free public parking is also available at the Town-owned Cook Street lots, on both the north and south sides of Cook Street. Free metered parking is available on Canyon Street and on the side streets from 10th Avenue to 16th Avenue for 2012.

Visitor Centre The Visitor Centre is operated by the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce. For detailed information on attractions, circle tours and tourism information contact them at 121 Northwest Boulevard, Highway 3, Creston or call Toll Free: 1-866-528-4342 or Phone: (250) 428-4342.

www.creston.ca Open for business: Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

238 - 10th Avenue N. PO Box 1339 Creston, BC V0B 1G0 Ph: 250-428-2214 • Fax: 250-428-9164 • email: info@creston.ca Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 5

LOCATIOn, LOCATIOn T

NaTalIe saNTaNO

he town of Creston is easy to find, located along the southernmost route joining the provinces of British Columbia and alberta. It is just an hour-and-aquarter west of Cranbrook on highway 3, or an hour-and-ahalf east of Nelson or Castlegar, travelling over the Kootenay Pass, Canada’s highest mountain pass.

Travellers from Nelson also have the option of a scenic trip along Kootenay lake’s West arm on highway 3a, followed by a trip on the M.V. Balfour or M.V. Osprey 2000 between Balfour and Kootenay Bay. The six-mile trip is the longest free ferry ride in the world, which makes it even more unique. From Kootenay Bay, highway 3a — referred to by some locals as the “lake road” — winds south, straight into Creston.

Creston is within two hours of two major airports, the Canadian rockies International airport (yXC) in Cranbrook and the Castlegar airport (yCg). The Creston Valley airport, six kilometres south of Creston, is suitable for light aircraft and small charter planes. south of Creston, in Washington, the spokane International airport (geg) is a three-hour drive.

Creston is served by greyhound Bus lines, with one bus each day to or from Cranbrook and Nelson — and beyond. The community also offers BC Transit and handi-Bus services, as well as Creston Valley Cab Co., the town’s only taxi service.

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LIFE In A SMALL TOWn C

BrIaN laWreNCe/rOBIN eDge-ParTINgTON

reston is still a small town, but it keeps growing. The 2011 census indicated a population of over 5,300 — more than 500 higher than in 2006. Newcomers appreciate the relaxed, community-oriented lifestyle that permeates the entire Creston Valley, which entices them to purchase homes in the area.

“Creston has become a retirement destination for young baby boomers looking to spend the next twenty years enjoying an active but relatively inexpensive lifestyle,” said Creston Valley realty owner elaine Carr. “What brings them here are the beautiful views and warm climate — what makes them stay are the great people and the peaceful pace.”

The many activities available in the valley also draw younger people and their families to the Creston Valley, where they enjoy everything from hiking to fishing and music to sports.

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Life in a Small Town

the relatively inexpensive real estate, both in town and in rural areas, is also a big draw.

“It’s typically the quality of life that we enjoy here, and the climate

upgrades to the Creston Curling Centre and John Bucyk arena, will ensure that families have an endless array of physical activities to keep them fit and occupied.

The Creston Valley’s rich agricultural possibilities are another important factor behind the decision to move to the valley — although

— Creston has got one of the nicest in all of Canada,” said re/Max Discovery real estate owner-broker Michael Carpenter. “To boot, we have very reasonable prices compared to other areas that are in a 5 or 6 agricultural zone. They want to grow their own food, and get away from the city and get away from a

DaN CaVerly

Major renovations to the Creston and District Community Complex, which began with the construction of an indoor aquatic facility that opened in 2010 and continued with

harsher climate. They also appreciate the beauty of the valley, which is somewhat unsurpassed.”

Of course, a brief wander through downtown Creston is enough to make many people want to stay. several coffee shops and unique businesses — where all the regulars know each other on a first-name basis — make a first visit to Creston feel like coming home.

New residents can easily learn more about what the Creston Valley has to offer by calling hi Nieghbour Welcome service hostess Christy Johnston at 250-428-7074. she is happy to visit newcomers with a greeting package of coupons and information.

“The most common thing said is, ‘What a beautiful valley,’ ” said Century 21 Veitch realty managing broker scott Veitch, a past president of the British Columbia real estate association. “They love the scenery, the climate, the small-town atmosphere and how friendly everyone is.”

Your connection to Real Estate in the Creston Valley Providing one-on-one personal service Insurance • Drivers Licenses Vehicle Registrations • Local Tips

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www.crestonvalleyinsurance.com 250-428-2294 or toll-free 1-888-853-6465 info@cvins.ca Conveniently located at the Mall

creston Valley history F

Once Upon a Time

or centuries, the Creston Valley and surrounding mountains and waterways were familiar only to the aboriginals known today as the Lower Kootenay Band, one of the seven bands that make up the Ktunaxa Nation.

It wasn’t until the gold rush in the Fort Steele area that the Dewdney Trail opened east-west access in the southern portion of British Columbia.

The Dewdney Trail, which enters the Creston Valley along Summit Creek and then follows the Goat River eastward toward the Columbia Valley, provided land access to areas where only water transport had previously been relied upon.

The first white settlers, who came to the area only 125 years ago, arrived to find a broad, lush valley that was flooded annually by the spring freshet.

Among those first settlers was J.C. Rykerts, who was dispatched from Victoria in 1883 to set up a customs house on the 49th parallel. Transport for Rykerts upon his arrival was a rowboat, with which he made an 80-mile return river trip to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to pick up the mail. The Rykerts border crossing featured a log cabin customs house.

Populating the area was a slow process and it wasn’t until 1891 that the Creston Valley’s first white baby, Christine Hood, was born. She would eventually marry Charles Sutcliffe, one of the area’s remaining pioneer families.

In 1892, Fred Little, John Arrowsmith and John Dow, staked a claim to portions of the valley along the benchland west of what is now 10th Avenue North. Little’s property would provide the location for the original townsite development.

John Arrowsmith married a daughter of William and Jane Huscroft, a pioneering couple who had arrived by chuckwagon and raft from Utah, staking their land claim on July 5, 1893. Jane was only a few months late to lay claim as being the first nonnative woman in the Creston Valley.

Sarah Ellen Dow, wife of John, arrived on the steamboat S.S. Nelson, which plied the Koote-

(Above) The S.S. Nasookin, one of many sternwheeled steamships that plied Kootenay Lake in the early 1900s, near Kootenay Landing, at the southern end of Kootenay Lake. (Below) The 1000 block of Creston’s Canyon Street, circa 1910.

creston museum And archives

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 9

Once Upon a Time

CRESTON MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

(Top) Marion and Geoff Collis with a horse pulling a harrow in the early 1920s. (Above) John W. Dow (at the left facing right) at his cabin, about 1893. (Below) The S.S. Kaslo at the Rykerts border crossing south of Creston in 1902.

10 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

nay River between Bonners Ferry and Kaslo, B.C. It was her diary that would provide the first recorded glimpse into life in Creston’s early days.

Canoes were used to transport the first white settlers as they disembarked from the several steamboats that had begun to provide regular service in the area. Sarah Ellen’s husband, John, arrived at the steamboat with a canoe, and soon the couple was paddling, then walking a mile-and-a-half, then crossing a slough in a dugout canoe before arriving at the cedar log cabin they would call home.

Sarah Ellen gave birth to a son, Campbell, in Spokane, Wash., on Aug. 16, 1893, and mother and child came home six weeks later, greeted by a large group of Lower Kootenay Band members eager to see the new white baby.

In 1883, a solution to the water-sodden flatlands that made up much of the valley came in the person of entrepreneur William Adolf Baillie-Grohman, who envisioned a rich agricultural opportunity if the floodwaters could be tamed. Good intentions were ignored by nature, though, and large floods often swept through the dikes, until the project was successfully carried out in the 1920s and 1930s.

Until the late 1890s, steam-powered sternwheelers plied local waterways from Creston south to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, and north to smaller Kootenay Lake settlements, and the ships played a large part in transportation until the 1930s. In the late 1890s, two railroads, Great Northern and Canadian Pacific arrived, making transportation in the valley that much easier.

Roads developed in short sections, which connected small communities throughout the valley and up the East Shore of Kootenay Lake. Later, these sections were joined, becoming part of a provincial highway system in the early 1920s. The government completed the road to Gray Creek in 1931, and the S.S. Nasookin made three daily stops at Gray Creek until 1947, when the road to Kootenay Bay was completed and the M.V. Anscomb (now sunk near Kaslo) was launched to ferry traffic between that point and Balfour.

Traffic kept flowing along the lake, until two big changes came about in the early 1960s — the opening of Rogers Pass as part of the Trans-Canada Highway in July 1962, and the Salmo-Creston portion of Highway 3 opening in October 1963.

Creston’s modern-day history is closely tied to the development of the diking system, and the rich agricultural tradition has continued. Forage and grain crops, fruits and vegetables, dairies and other agricultural industries have long contributed to the economic stability of an area that also boasts a strong forest sector and mining history.

For more history of the Creston Valley, we recommend Sixty Bloomin’ Years by Helena White, which was published on the 60th anniversary of the Town of Creston’s 1924 incorporation. Reprints are available from Kingfisher Used Books.

Four seasons of funSo Much to S

See and Do

pring comes to the Creston Valley in mid-April, with green leaves, scented blossoms and green grass seeming to appear overnight, prompting residents of all ages to get outdoors and enjoy everything the valley has to offer.

It can often feel very much like summer by the middle of May, when the apple and cherry trees bloom and Creston hosts the annual Creston Valley Blossom Festival on the Victoria Day weekend. The festival opens with a concert featuring Wendell Ferguson and the announcement of Creston’s citizen of the year, and the weekend includes three pancake breakfasts, two parades, a street festival, a classic car show and a chili cook-off.

With the theme “Blossom Fest, simply the best”, this year marks the 71st annual festival, which began as a way to raise the community’s morale during the Second World War. “It’s the one time of year that we can bring the whole town together at the same time for a variety of events,” says festival president Hugh Johnston.

A new feature this Blossom Festival weekend is a showcase in Millennium Park, which will show off the Creston Valley’s musical talent, from singers to dancers to Irish fiddlers. Saturday’s events will be capped off with a dance sponsored by the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The May long weekend also sees the opening of the 17,000acre Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area’s Wildlife Interpretation Centre in West Creston (see page 28).

Earlier in the month, the Creston Museum and Archives opens for its season, which runs until mid-September (see page 26).

A visit to the Creston Valley in the summer isn’t complete without paying a visit to the many orchards and fruit stands in the area. A few offer meals, as well as fresh-off-the-tree (or -vine or -bush) produce.

One of these is the Blueberry Patch in Lister, which offers country lunches, soups and homemade baking. It is open from the first day of spring until Christmas and features a shop with country giftware, and gourmet jams and spreads — as well as a candy cottage for the young and young at heart.

In addition to U-pick blueberries, the farm also has its strawberry pavilion, with 18,000 hydroponically grown strawberry plants.

The Creston Valley Blossom Festival features two parades, one for children on Monday (above) and the main parade on Saturday (below) of the May long weekend.

lorne eckersley

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2011 | 11

So Much to See and Do

BrIaN laWreNCe

“That’s something they won’t see anywhere,” says owner Michael sproule.

Cherrybrook Farms is unique, too, with a cherry tree leasing system that allows family to pick all the fruit from “their” tree. With an orchard on erickson road, and a highway 3 location that opened last year, owners gord and Caroline Martin enjoy selling produce and other food products made in the Creston Valley.

“Our dream is to become a community hub for local producers,” says Caroline.

To find a variety of local products all in one place, a visit to the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market is a must. It runs on saturday mornings from May to september beside Millennium Park, and October to December at Morris Flowers garden Centre on erickson road. In addition to fresh Creston Valley produce, it features live music and vendors offering crafts, art, flowers, plants, wood products, baked goods, freshly roasted coffee and breakfast — all made, baked or grown in the Creston Valley (see page 40). every second year, the Creston Valley garden Club asks eight gardeners to open up their gardens to guests for a one-day event, which draws visitors from the east and west Kootenays, as well as Idaho and Washington.

This year’s tours will be held on June 23. Tickets are $10, available at Beltane Nursery, Morris Flowers garden Centre and the Creston Valley Chamber of Com-

The Creston Valley Farmers’ Market is not only a great place to buy local produce, but also to learn how to use it, thanks to cooking demonstrations by the Great Canadian Cooking School.

Your Creston & District Community Complex Drop in to the Creston Valley’s newly renovated Community Centre to Relax, Recreate and Rejuvenate!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Competition 25 metre 5 lane lap pool 1 metre diving board Aquatic climbing wall Leisure pool with lazy river Hot tub and steam room Fitness centre with indoor track All the latest cardio, strength, free weights and other workout equipment Group fitness room with spin bikes Physiotherapy Clinic Hockey arena and new dressing rooms Six sheet curling rink and lounge facility Large banquet room with kitchen facility Meeting rooms Park area with baseball & soccer fields Beach volleyball courts and horseshoe pits Children’s playground Rotacrest Hall facilities We are located at:

312 - 19th Ave N, Creston BC Handicap accessible

email: crestonrec@rdck.bc.ca

www.rdck.bc.ca • Experience it!

12 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

merce. For an additional $10, a bus will take visitors to all the gardens, and Creston’s gogo grannies will serve lunch for $8, with the pro-

So Much to See and Do

Community Complex. In addition to public swimming, the pool offers many swimming courses and lessons for everyone, from boys

on Northwest Boulevard. Owners Dave schellenberg and stephanie soderling opened the 18-hole course in 2007, naming it for their dog.

CresTON aND DIsTrICT COMMUNITy COMPleX

The Creston and District Community Complex pool, which opened in 2010, is a popular way to beat the summer heat.

ceeds being donated to the stephen lewis Foundation. For more information, contact eileen hirota at 250-402-6717 or gwen Beebe at 250-428-0123.

Naturally, swimming is a summer pastime, and the Creston Valley offers several great spots to enjoy the clean, cool water of the Kootenays (see page 56), including the indoor pool, which opened in 2010 at the Creston and District

and girls to new moms to lifeguards in training — and that’s just in the water.

“From swimming lessons to soccer camp, from scuba to underwater hockey, from outdoor boot camp to aquatic kick boxing, there is something for everyone,” says aquatic programmer Brooke Cherfils.

Miniature golfing is always a popular pastime, and visitors can enjoy it at Cheyenne Creek Mini golf

Creston

Curling Centre

Creston & District Recreation Complex Six sheets of ice hosting Seniors curling Mixed Curling, Junior League, Ladies League, Men’s League, and open leagues – it is all there for you to try annual ladies’ Valentine Bonspiel - February annual Men’s ButterFly Bonspiel - March Newly renovated lounge available for renting for your next family gathering, wedding, reunion, curling game or meetings

The course features waterfalls and rustic bridges, and misters spray cool water near one of the holes to give players a reprieve from summer heat.

It’s also pleasant to stroll through Creston’s downtown, browsing in stores — including the east Kootenay’s largest beading shop, a smoke shop and a flower shop — and being refreshed at one of several restaurants and coffee shops.

V ll

C

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7th A Annual nnual Blossom Festival Show & Shine • Canyon St Sunday, May 20, 2012 10am–3pm 10am 3pm Info: 250-428-7723 24th Annual Creston Valley Cruisers Fall Campout Show & Shine September 21, 22 & 23, 2012 at Centennial Park Info: 250-428-2032 www.crestonbc.com/cruisers/

www.crestoncurling.com • 250-428-7512

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 13

So Much to See and Do On Erickson Street, a tour of the Columbia Brewery is also a must, where visitors learn how “the beer out here” is made. While you’re at the brewery that makes Kokanee, Bud Light and Alexander Keith’s, be sure to have your picture taken on the brewery grounds with the sasquatch sculpture, created by Canyon sculptor Karl Lansing.

Canyon, Millennium and Centennial parks are hopping on Canada

fruits and vegetables, flowers, grain and hay, as well as crafts, photography and woodworking that will fill the arena.”

The Creston Valley’s youth are well represented at the fair with presentations by 4-H dairy, beef and horse clubs. Visitors to the fair will find commercial booths inside and outside the arena, and activities will be scattered throughout the various section displays.

The Creston Valley Fall Fair demonstrates the area’s committment to its agricultural heritage.

Day. A slo-pitch tournament and barrel racing are a big part of the event in Canyon, a few miles east of Creston, while kids’ activities and live entertainment are the highlights of the festivities in town.

The entire community will enjoy socializing at the 95th annual Creston Valley Fall Fair, which showcases — but isn’t limited to — local produce, baking, livestock and artwork.

“A true traditional country fair,” is how president Randy Meyer describes the September event. “There will be displays of the valley’s finest

This is also the time of year when the Creston Valley Thunder Cats kick off the hockey season. The Junior B Kootenay International Junior Hockey League team has been around for more than 25 years, and fans continue to flock to the John Bucyk Arena to cheer on the team.

The Thunder Cats season usually begins with exhibition games in early September and continues through the playoffs in March.

For those who like their entertainment to offer finesse without brute strength, the Creston Valley Figure

14 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

brian lawrence

Skating Club, which has about 60 members, presents an ice show each season.

The Creston Curling Club is also located at the community complex. The club hosts the Valentine Bonspiel (for women) in February and the Butterfly Bonspiel (men) in March, which brings to Creston players from across B.C., Alberta and Idaho.

“The social aspect is a lot of it,” said curling club member Evelyn Tingley. “They come every year and see the same old friends. And the competition is good.”

So Much to See and Do

Cross-country skiers won’t have a hard time finding the perfect spot to practice their hobby. The Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area has more than 30 kilometres of trails to follow, some of which weave through the marshy area surrounding the Wildlife Interpretation Centre at 1760 West Creston Road.

Summit Creek Park, a former campground located a few minutes west of Creston on Highway 3, is also a popu-

lar choice, with trails that extend into the flat land on the valley floor. More trails can be found about 40 kilometres past Summit Creek Park on Highway 3 at the top of the Kootenay Pass, complete with a heated cabin to recharge after a day of vigorous skiing. (For more on hiking, see page 50.)

Downhill skiers will be pleased to discover five ski hills within a threehour drive. West of Creston are the Salmo Ski Hill, renowned for its

Stella, Idaho’s only six-person highspeed lift.

Snowmobiling is also popular, and about 70 members of the Kokanee Country Snowmobile Club enjoy miles of logging roads winding through incredible scenery.

“We have a number of amazing areas to ride, and each is a little bit different so you can always find something new,” says president Dean Bala. “With lots of riding areas, and not a lot of

brian lawrence

(Clockwise from above) The Creston Curling Centre’s annual Butterfly Bonspiel; a member of the Creston Valley Thunder Cats; the Creston Valley Figure Skating Club’s annual ice show.

jeff banman

nighttime skiing, and Rossland’s Red Mountain, where Olympic gold medallists Nancy Greene and Kerrin Lee Gartner got their start. North of Salmo off Highway 6 is Whitewater Ski Resort, which, well-known for its powder, bills itself as being “pure, simple and real ... deep.” East of Creston is the Kimberley Alpine Resort, which features 80 runs.

An hour to the south, near Sandpoint, Idaho, U.S.A., is Schweitzer Mountain Resort, where skiers take in panoramic views of Canada, Washington, Idaho and Montana — after travelling on

snowmobilers, there is always lots of fresh snow to be found.”

Among the regular events held each season are a tailgate sale (a swap meet for snowmobilers, with local dealers showcasing new products), a poker run and a hotdog dash (eat a hotdog, then ride your snowmobile through a course up to the top of a hill), followed by a year-end banquet with dinner and prizes.

For a map that shows what areas are off-limits to snowmobilers, contact the Kokanee Country Snowmobile Club by calling Bala at 250-402-9839.

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 15

Take Out

Patio

Lounge

Coffee Shop

Dining Room

Licensed

Dinner

Lunch

Breakfast

restaurants

Ad on Page

P laces to Eat ABC Country Restaurant 122 Northwest Blvd Creston, BC 28 250.428.7864

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A Break in Time Caffé 1417 Canyon St. Creston, BC 17 250.428.5619

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Bayshore Resort 13165 Hwy 3A Boswell, BC 56 250.354.4370

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Buffalo Trails 1215 Canyon St. Creston, BC 18 250.428.5730 Creston Golf Club Mallory Restaurant 1800 Mallory Rd. Creston, BC 24 250.428.5515 Creston Hotel - Jimmy’s Pub & Grill 1418 Canyon St. Creston, BC 18 250.428.2225 Creston Valley Bakery 113 - 10 Ave. North Creston, BC 17 250.428.2661

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Dairy Queen 1804 Canyon St. Creston, BC 29 250.428.9800

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Home Style Café Hwy 3 Kitchener (East of Creston), BC 17 250.428.5011

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Kokanee Pub 123 - 9 Ave. South Creston, BC 17 250.428.4241 Kokanee Springs Golf Resort 16082 Woolgar Rd. Crawford Bay, BC 25 1.800.979.7999 250.227.9226

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Kootenay Thai Restaurant & Tony’s Bar 800 Northwest Blvd, Creston 18 www.kootenaythai.com 250.428.7779

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Real Food Café 223 - 10 Ave. North, Creston 17 www.realfoodcafe.ca 250.428.8882

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Ricky’s All Day Grill Junction Hwy 3 & 3A, Creston 63 www.gotorickys.com Opening May 2012

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16 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

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Fully licensed RestauRant

International Cuisine and Coffees, plus Vegetarian and Traditional Favourites

Down to earth.

Wholesome. Goodness.

Creative Dining

freshly made every day

with locally available produce

Open Daily

Mon 6am-4pm | Tues-Sat 6am-8pm Sun 8am-3pm

Hearty Portions • Great Prices • Local Organic Beef & Cheese Traditional British Fish & Chips • Really Good Homemade desserts Licensed • Non-smoking Patio

WiFi • Outdoor Courtyard • Music Nights • Take-Out

www.abreakintimecaffe.com nt, Origin da al n e p

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Real Food Cafe • Creston 223-10 Ave North (across from the Firehall) 250.428.8882 realfoodcafe.ca

Our name says it all

98 18

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1417 Canyon St, Creston • 250-428-5619

Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm Dinner Mon-Sat 4:30-8pm

e style Cafe Hom

250-428-5011

Hwy 3 Kitchener BC Just 10 minutes east of Creston

ExpEriEncE a fine selection of breads and baked

delicacies from locally produced wheat!

• Daily Lunch Specials • Full Bakery Selection • Deli Counter • Gourmet Sandwiches • Roof Top Sundeck • Delectable Desserts • Artisan Bread • Licensed

FULL MENU • COLD BEER KOOTENAY

123 9 Ave. South, Creston

BUSINESS

CRESTON

Just south of the grain elevators

250-428-4241

113-10th Ave. N Creston 250-428-2661

KOOTENAY

BUSINESS

CRESTON

KOOTENAY

BUSINESS

CRESTON

KOOTENAY

BUSINESS

BEST OF BUSINESS

TINUM PLATINUM PLATINUM TINUM PLA2011 PLA201 2011 1 2011 DOUGHNUT PLACE

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BAKERY

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Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 17

Valleyview Motel clean, quiet and affordable cabin-like units overlooking the valley.

250-428-2336 Toll free 1-800-758-9334 Reservation inquiry email: valleyview@telus.net www.valleyviewmotel.info s: Your Host ose aR L is Lillian & Denn

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1215 Canyon Street • Downtown Creston • 250-428-5730

Creston Hotel

and Jimmy’s Pub & Grill

• Central Downtown Location • Guest Rooms & Kitchenette Suites

2705 Canyon St. on Hwy#3 Creston, BC • 250-428-2229

YOUR COMFORT OUR MissiO MissiOn sunset@kootenay.com www.sunsetmotelcreston.com 1-800-663-7082 Pets Welcome • BCAA Triple Rating

1-800-663-7082

Skimmerhorn “The Place to Stay”

• Executive Suites • • Seasonal Heated Pool • Air Conditioning • • • • • • RIDER FRIENDLY

INN

250.428.2225 • 1418 Canyon St. Creston • www.crestonhotel.com

City Centre Motel

Chain quality, PLUS MORE... at a family price!

2711 Hwy 3E Creston

www.skimmerhor ninn.com

250-428-2257

220 15th Ave North, Creston • 1/2 Block off Hwy 3 (Canyon St) www.crestonvalley.com/citycenter For Reservations Only, Call Toll Free 1-877-506-2211

OPEN FOR DINNER nightly 4-9pm Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm Like us on Facebook, Follow us on twitter

Free mic, karaoke, free internet

Award Winning

Thai Cu isi

ne

Located in the Hacienda Inn

800 Northwest Blvd, Creston

250-428-7779

& Tony’s Bar

Close to everything but the noise.

www.kootenaythai.com Formerly Montri’s Thai Restaurant in Vancouver

18 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

2012

100

years and

1912 - 2012 • 100 Years Farming In The Creston Valley

Friday, Sept 7 & Saturday, Sept 8, 2012 at the Creston & District Community Complex

ow Sew it! Grit!

SHow

it!

Fruit tock Poultry & lives ge Ve tables Wine & beer ome baking H Flowers hotography P Woodwork Quilts n Student sectio ee N dlework s Penmanship ome preserve H ge ts Grain & folia af cr Arts & Sunflowers 4H demos rs ne Local entertai duced n Locally pro Locally grow om ey stonvall www.cre

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Growing with the Valley for oVer 90 years!

Truscott Farms 2012

Come see us all year long for in-store Anniversary Specials m, Ice Crea Fruit h s e r F , Coffee othies Smo n & Froze s e e Entr AY KOOTEN

BUSINESS S

SINES BEST OF BU

PLAT20IN11UM

Fresh L o Vegetab cal Fruit • H les Honey erbs • Be Cheese ef Cornwall Farms 1912

Join us Labour Day Weekend for our

Centenary Celebration!

3016 Hwy 3 Creston, BC 250-428-4983 Open Daily Dawn to Dusk

Fruit Stand

THE

HACIENDA INN

OvErlOOks THE BEAuTIful CrEsTON vAllEy 51 units with fridges 16 full Kitchen Suites Licensed Family Restaurant Sports Lounge Seasonal Outdoor Pool High-speed Internet & A/C Executive, Private Jacuzzi, and Large Family Suites Corporate/Senior/Family/Group Rates Smoking & Pet-friendly Rooms Available Championship Golf Course Packages available

haciendainn.ca • 1.800.567.2215 • 250-428-2224 • 800 NW Blvd

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 19

nO EnD TO LEARnInG

Pheasants Run Bed & Breakfast your home away from home

“T

he strength of a ‘community college’ lies with the community — this is our college,” College of the rockies (COTr) campus manager Kathy Tompkins says.

For a quarter of a century, the College of the rockies has been delivering quality education opportunities to Creston Valley residents, and to visitors, too, thanks to activities like a summer arts program. In the summer, a series of courses on a variety of arts topics are taught by working artists.

Gorgeous panoramic view Large, comfortable, modern executive suites Satellite TV, Wireless Internet Private patios, Tranquil setting

1506 1st Ave. NW • 250-428-0045

Picture Perfect Nestled amongst the cedars beside Arrow Creek Fabulous home cooked breakfasts

Fern’s Gulley Guest Cottage Bed & Breakfast 2 bdrm Cottage / sleeps 6 • Hot Tub 250-428-3359 10 minutes from Creston, BC BrIaN laWreNCe

Bed & Breakfast

2010

330 NW Blvd.

Creston, BC Hwy 3 Toll free: 1-866-393-9520 Ph: 250-428-9520

Um

PLaTIN

WWW.CraNBerrymaNor.Ca a

BV EI LS LT AA

Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast

Modern & luxurious: Best suited for business people, travelling couples and honeymooners.

Complimentary business centre. Espresso breakfast.

1206 Lilac Street, Creston BC www.bbcanada.com/11111.html 250.428.4847 • 250.435.0307

20 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

located in the downtown core on an old mill site donated to the Town of Creston by the former Crestbrook Forest Industries, COTr’s Creston campus offers full-time programs like resident care aide, adult basic education, licensed practical nursing and hairdressing, some in rotation with other COTr campuses in the east Kootenay region. shorter courses, such as activity assistant and practical herbalist, provide opportunities for educational upgrading. and the local campus has been at the vanguard of online education, with more than 170 general interest courses available through the Internet. Check the college office or website for credit course opportunities, too. always popular has been the range of general interest courses, ranging from first aid to computers, class one driving certificates to stained glass and other arts instruction.

The COTr campus is also home to the Community greenhouse, which was the setting for a two-year winter harvest program, and allows members of the Therapeutic activation Program for seniors to work in the garden with the community’s children and young families.

For more information, visit www.cotr.bc.ca, phone 250428-5332 or e-mail creston@cotr.bc.ca.

Canyon Cedars Country Retreat 3692 - 46 St. Creston, BC 250.428.8852

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City Centre Motel 220 - 15 Ave. North Creston, BC 1.877.506.2211 250.428.2257

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Cranberry Manor Bed & Breakfast 330 Northwest Blvd Creston, BC 1.866.393.9520 250.428.9520

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Downtowner Motor Inn 1218 Canyon St. Creston, BC 1.800.665.9904 250.428.2238

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Goat River Bed & Breakfast 1046 Lamont Rd. Creston, BC 250.428.7134

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Kokanee Springs Resort (Lodge) 16082 Woolgar Rd. Crawford Bay, BC 1.800.979.7999 250.227.9226

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Phillips Road Bed & Breakfast 3149 Phillips Road Creston, BC 250.428.2242

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Satellite

Cable

Golf Packages

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Hacienda Inn 800 Northwest Blvd. Creston, BC 1.800.567.2215 250.428.2224

Pheasants Run Bed & Breakfast 1506 - 1 Ave NW Creston, BC 250.428.0045

Weekly / Monthly

v

20

Creston Hotel and Suites 1418 Canyon St. Creston, BC 250.428.2225

Fern’s Gulley Guest Cottage 1696 Lakeview Arrowcreek Rd. Creston, BC 250.428.3359

Off Season Rates

Restaurant / Lounge

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# of Units

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Lake / Beach

Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast 1206 Lilac St. Creston, BC 250.428.4847 C:250.435.0307

Family Oriented

Bed & Breakfast

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See Ad on Page

Bayshore Resort 13165 Hwy 3A Boswell, BC 250.354.4370 250.223.8270

Hotel / Motel

accommodations

P laces to Stay

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Pilot Bay Resort & Charter Services 16961 Pilot Bay Rd. Kootenay Bay, BC 250.227.9441

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Ramada Junction Hwy 3 & 3A, Creston, BC ramadagm@trudex.ca Opening May 2012

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Skimmerhorn Inn 2711 Hwy 3 Creston, BC 250.428.4009

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Sunset Motel 2705 Hwy 3 Creston, BC 1.800.663.7082 250.428.2229

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Valley View Motel 216 Valleyview Dr. Creston, BC 1.800.758.9334 250.428.2336

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Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 21

A WALK In THE PARK R

BrIaN laWreNCe

esidents and visitors alike often take advantage of Creston’s many parks, suitable for a quick game of catch with the kids, a peaceful place to read or even enjoy a romantic picnic.

•centennial Park (Birch street, entrance at Ninth avenue south). This well-shaded park is popular with families, for obvious reasons: it has a playground, picnic sites, a gazebo, a baseball diamond, a basketball hoop, a water fountain and washrooms. an exciting feature is the Creston rotary splash Playground (right), an excellent way for the kids to cool off while Mom and Dad kick back and relax.

•Burns/Farstad Park (312 19th avenue North). This is the site of the Creston and District Community Complex. The park has a new indoor swimming pool, a playground, two baseball diamonds, the alex Nilsson Field for soccer, horseshoe pits, a skateboarding park, basketball hoops, volleyball nets, curling and ice rinks (in season).

•millennium Park (300 block of 16th avenue south).

The park, created by volunteers, opened in the summer of 2004. It features walkways, one-of-a-kind wooden benches and an amphitheatre, which is often used for musical and theatrical productions in the summer. One of the park’s

A young visitor gets a surprise at the Creston Rotary Splash Park.

DON’T MISS IT! “The best trade show in the Kootenays”

THE CRESTON May 12 - June 8, 2012:

MUSEUM Monday-Saturday, 10:00 - 3:30

JuneY9our - August 25, 2012: Find StorY Here Daily 10:00 - 5:00

May 12 – June 8, 2012: August 26 - September 15, 2012: Monday–Saturday, 10am–3:30pm Monday-Saturday, 10:00 - 3:30

June 9 – August 25, 2012: Daily 10am–5pm

August 26 – September 15, 2012: Monday–Saturday, 10am–3:30pm

Getting By... and Coming Through

AnnuAl

& Show

April 20 & 21, 2012 Creston & District Community Complex

312 - 19th Ave. North

The Great Depression in the Creston Valley A Special Exhibit at the Creston Museum May 15–September 15, 2012

Tea with Dorothy Davis, Suffragette

The Creston Museum’s Old-Fashioned Tea Saturday, August 11, 2012

• Picnic Area • Model Railway • Gift Shop

22 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

NOW BOOKING

for April 19 & 20, 2013 Early Bird prices available

Call 1-866-528-4342

info@crestonvalleychamber.com

most striking features is the Japanese garden, which was developed thanks to a donation from Creston’s Japanese sister city, Kaminoho. The park may be rented for weddings or special functions on the grounds or in the amphitheatre; contact the Town of Creston for details.

•Burns Park (elm street and 25th avenue south). This park has a playground, picnic tables and washrooms.

•kinsmen Park (Birch street and 25th avenue south). This park has tennis courts, a baseball diamond and a running track.

•schikurski Park (regina street and 14th avenue North). Walking trails are a major feature of this park.

•Lister Park (16th street and huscroft road). This rural park has a covered outdoor dining area, rental kitchen facilities, a tennis court, a basketball hoop, a playground and a baseball diamond.

•canyon Park (48th street and samuelson road). The park fea-

A Walk In The Park

tures 30 picnic sites, a baseball diamond, a horse arena, a horse racing track, horseshoe pits, a playground, a pavilion, a rental kitchen and pay showers.

•canada’s smallest Park (Canyon street Walkthrough). This one is home to minature shrubs and small plants — definitely something to write home about!

A gymkhana is a popular Canada Day event at Canyon Park.

COLLEGE OF THE ROCKIES

Serving Our Community

The goal of College of the Rockies in Creston is to provide quality, timely education and training for our area. We are a vital part of our community – and we want to ensure we grow and develop as our community grows and develops.

Check out our ever-changing programs at: Phone: 250 428-5332 Email: creston@cotr.bc.ca or drop by: 301 16th Ave, Creston BC Kathy Tompkins Campus Manager

www.cotr.bc.ca/creston

lOrNe eCKersley

Wildlife Centre

t GVJEFE CBOPF Walking TPVST t HikJOH #Jking TrBJMT t Wildlife VieXJOH t Educational Displays t Science Lab t Gift Shop Centre open May - October Programs and tours May - August ContacU VT !

BTLVT!Drestonwildlife.ca

www.crestonwildlife.ca Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 23

24 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

On THE GREEn

lar scenery and strength,” said Creston golf Club professional randy Panton. “We have holes you simply couldn’t build anywhere else!”

If you want to get in a game, but don’t have a lot of time, the five-

tober. and because the courses are located in pristine natural surroundings, golfers can often enjoy a glimpse of wildlife sharing the course. an hour north on highway 3a, golfers will be delighted to find the

V

isitors to the Creston Valley who are interested in spending a day on the links are in luck — 17 golf courses are located within two hours of Creston. Two are minutes away — the Creston golf Club in lister and the Canyon heights golf Course in Canyon.

The 18-hole, par-72 Creston golf Club was the home of B.C.’s 1992 juvenile, 1998 junior, 2002 senior amateur, 2004 ladies’ amateur and 2006 high school championships. spectacular views of the Kootenay river and surrounding mountains can be seen from the course.

“The Creston golf Club has been built on a unique piece of property that gave our architect the opportunity to create a golf course with a great deal of character as well as spectacu-

Cheryl Jaggers

Putting at the Creston Golf Club.

hole Canyon heights golf Course in Canyon is your best bet. The course also features an 18-hole putting range, located at the foot of the magnificent skimmerhorns, part of the Purcell mountain range.

“It’s in a gorgeous corner of the valley,” says owner Dave Perrin. “It is fantastically beautiful.”

Due to the Creston Valley’s mild climate, golf season starts in mid-March and usually runs until the end of Oc-

18-hole Kokanee spring golf resort in Crawford Bay, which is situated beside the 60-room Kokanee lodge.

Twenty minutes away is the nine-hole riondel golf Course, a few minutes off highway 3a on riondel road.

Outside the valley, courses in Balfour, Kaslo, Nelson, salmo, Champion lakes, Trail-rossland and Cranbrook, as well as Bonners Ferry and Priest lake in Idaho, ensure variety for all skill levels.

it’s the course out here...

KOKanee SPRingS gOLF ReSORt A graceful championship track frames panoramic views from every hole.

Long driving fairways & immense rolling greens make Kokanee a golfing adventure and an unforgettable experience.

The fabulous Kokanee lodge offers a quiet mixture of casual elegance and relaxation for those desiring mountain-style serenity. Overlooking the 12th fairway are 5 suites all with balconies or patios, meeting & hospitality rooms available for groups. Just 60 minutes north of Creston on Kootenay Lake • 18 Holes • Lessons • Licensed Dining • Men’s Yardage: 6604 • Ladies Yardage: 5144 • Outdoor Hot tub • PowerCart/Club Rentals • Driving Range • Full Service Pro Shop

• Refurbished bunkers with silica sand • 4th set of forward tee boxes • New Cart Fleet

Upgrad e stay to a cottage or villa !

www.kokaneesprings.com • Crawford Bay, BC • t tel: 250-227-9226 • Fax: 250-227-9220 • toll Free: 1-800-979-7999

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 25

CRESTOn MuSEuM & ARCHIVES ging L ife Brin to History W

BrIaN laWreNCe

The Creston Museum has many artifacts depicting early life in the Creston Valley.

ith more than half of its 10,000 artifacts on display, the Creston Museum and archives is the place to go to learn all there is to know about the Creston Valley’s history — from forestry to agriculture to transportation.

“Many of our visitors are surprised at how big the museum is, and how much there is to see,” says manager Tammy hardwick. “There are a lot of corners, and something new to see around every one of them.”

The museum, which opens May 8 and runs through mid-september, has two main buildings, both built in the 1960s by master stonemason rudolph schultz.

Other buildings on the property include a century-old schoolhouse from Kingsgate (near yahk), a trapper’s cabin and a shed that shelters farm equipment, including a 1920s Ford and Caterpillar.

The Creston Museum is also home to the seventh siding Trackers, a model railway club that has created a miniature version of the Creston Valley in the living room of a former apartment on the museum grounds.

The publicly funded non-profit facility plays an active role in the community, hosting several events during its season (May-september). The first is the museum’s opening day, May 12, which also marks the opening of the temporary exhibit, getting By…and Coming Through, a look at the great Depression in the Creston Valley.

Creston Veterinary Hospital

Creston

Farm & House Call Service 24 Hour Emergency by Phone

Visitor Centre 121 Northwest Blvd (next to the grain elevators) 1-866-528-4342 250-428-4342

Dr. Robert McLeod • Dr. Emma Davis Dr. Leanne Sackney • Dr. John Pfeffer Ph: 250-428-9494 • 1605 Dogwood St • Creston, BC

26 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

• Maps • Guides • WiFi • Public Washrooms • Creston Valley Rotary Club History Wall • Local artisan displays

crestonchamber@kootenay.com

“The great Depression in the Creston Valley is a decade of contradictions: People who had established farms here were doing well — they didn’t have a lot of extras, but they were well able to feed their families and trade their surplus for things they couldn’t produce themselves,” said museum manager Tammy hardwick. “hundreds of people moved to the Creston Valley from the Prairies as

Bringing Life to History

to the Promised land — the valley was seen as a land of plenty, a place where they could have successful farms and enough food.

“But at the same time, there were seven federal relief camps in the region, at least three provincial ones and numerous municipal relief efforts. Many businesses closed, and fruit farmers refused to harvest their crops because they were losing money on them.

JeFF BaNMaN

The Creston Museum’s annual Old-Fashioned Tea is poopular with locals and visitors.

“On the surface, Creston came through the Depression quite well — but digging just a little deeper reveals a very bleak, very harsh reality.”

Making its way into a few exhibits this summer will be the local “history on film” project “Over the past winter, we’ve been collecting historic film footage of the Creston Valley, a lot of it on eight-millimetre reels, and converting it to DVD,” said hardwick. a few regular events — Kid’s Day (June 9, featuring vintage games from hopscotch to marbles), the Old-Fashioned Tea (aug. 11, tea, lemonade and dainty treats on the museum’s patio) and the quilt show and sale (sept. 15) — will keep volunteers busy. “events give our visitors a chance to live or relive history for an afternoon, and they give people opportunities to share their stories,” says hardwick. “Museums should be places where people can gather and enjoy an hour, an afternoon or a day. Our static exhibits let the people do that in a quiet, peaceful way, and our events let visitors enjoy in a more hands-on way.”

These events allow museum employees, tour guides and volunteers to glean new information to pass on to future visitors.

“We collect the artifacts that illustrate local history and the stories that go with them, and we pass those stories on to others,” says hardwick. “It’s ongoing — we’re always collecting both artifacts and stories. In fact, the best days we have are the ones when people come in and start reminiscing.”

ExcEptional practicE opportunitiEs await!

If you are a Family Physician considering relocation, consider the beautiful...

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Marilin StateS | PhySician recruitMent | health@creSton.ca

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 27

WILDLIFE MAnAGEMEnT AREAP reserving Our T

here may be no better internationally known feature in the Kootenays than the Creston Valley Wildlife Management area (CVWMa). In fact, rand McNally voted the CVWMa and the Wildlife Interpretation

e r u t a N e u iq n U

Centre as a Best of the road editors’ Top Pick in the 2009 rand McNally road atlas. located 11 kilometres west of Creston, CVWMa is a ramsar site, an internationally significant wetland. It is also recognized as a nationally im-

arNOlD laBreNTZ

JC’s Self Storage Your storage solution

Safe, dry storage Full perimeter security fence Heated storage available Boats • Cars • Inventory • Furniture • Records • Machinery Phone: 250-428-9933 Fax: 250-428-7717 620 Payne Street, Creston www.jcstorage.com

portant bird area because it provides important habitat for migrating and nesting birds.

The Wildlife Interpretation Centre at 1760 West Creston road is open from May to september, but boardwalks and trails throughout the marshes welcome visitors year-round. The centre offers something for everyone during its season, which runs from May to september, including guided canoe and walking tours, youth programs and educational displays. a science and nature gift shop in the centre has an excellent selection of books, natural history and educational resources, nature related gifts, souvenirs and refreshments. an impressive feature of the 32 kilometres of trails is the three-story viewing tower along the Marsh Trail loop, a popular destination for schoolchildren, birdwatchers, photographers and nature enthusiasts to view wildlife and enjoy the breathtaking views of the wetland. a second tower is

Welcome to Good Food Country Fully Licensed • Steaks • Seafood • Pasta • Sunday Breakfast Buffet appy Menu • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Menus Mon-thurs 8am-8pm Sunday 9am-8pm Fri & Sat 8am-9pm 122 Northwest Blvd Creston BC • 250-428-7864

28 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

located north of the Wildlife Interpretation Centre, by following trails that cross under highway 3.

Why is the CVWMa important? It is home to over 300 bird species, 50 mammal species, 30 fish, reptile and

Preserving Our Unique Nature they sustain as much life as many tropical rain forests, play a critical role in maintaining the global environment and provide a natural flood barrier that slows down the runoff of spring melt and rain-

The richness and diversity of life forms would not be present on the Creston Valley Wildlife Management area without habitat management. Because of careful management of water levels, vegetation and other habitat features since 1968, there are now more species and larger breeding populations of birds and other wildlife at CVWMa than in previous years.

Wetlands are important because

storms. additionally, extensive wetlands in agricultural regions play a large role in water purification by filtering the water of lakes, rivers and streams, reducing pollution. Marsh plants remove excessive levels of nitrogen and phosphorous. Basically, wetlands are the kidneys of the earth — understanding and preserving these wetlands is as important for our future as it is to Canadian wildlife.

BrIaN laWreNCe

Warm shallow waters encourage luxuriant growth of the most important aquatics such as sage, clasping leaf and other pondweeds, duck potato, duckweed, muskgrass and many more.

amphibian species, thousands of invertebrate and plant species. The valley is a migration corridor for tundra swans, greater white-fronted geese, and other waterfowl and is the largest regional locale for wintering birds of prey in the interior of the province.

It is considered that in British Columbia the CVWMa is second only to the B.C. coast as a flyway route for numbers of migrating waterfowl that follow it twice yearly.

Your Hometown

For appliances, electronics, beds and mattresses, fitness equipment, home and garden equipment, plus your Sears catalogue store and MORE! 1510 Cook Street CreSton, BC • 250-428-5301 tUeS - FrI 9:30 am - 5:30 pm • Sat 9:30 am - 5:00 pm

Eat IN Take OUT Drive THRU 1804 Canyon Street Highway 3 250-428-9800 Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 29

FOOD WITH WInE W

ine lovers and foodies delight in pairing food with appropriate libations, and what better way to celebrate the bounty that grows in the Creston Valley?

With three wineries now open to visitors, and dozens of venues to pick up locally produced food, the area has become a gourmet — and gourmand — heaven.

For a perfect weekend meal, first visit the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market or drop in to a fruit stand or farm gate vendor to pick up fruit and veggies in season. a stop at Famous Fritz Meats and Deli and Kootenay alpine Cheese might be

in order, too. Think grilled sausages and a hearty red wine! Or a cheese plate to go with just about any local wine you happen to enjoy.

Need some inspiration first? Talk to your host at the winery, or check out the menu at skimmerhorn Winery’s bistro, where there are plenty of ideas to whet the palate and stimulate the appetite. The bistro recommends Pinot rosé or Pinot gris with Caesar salad or Pinot Noir with coq au vin — no surprise there, as the same wine is used in the sauce! The bistro’s recommendation for grilled strip loin steak is Devil’s Chair or Marechal Foch, the winery’s heartiest wines, sure bets to stand up to the charred red meat. The off-dry autumn Tryst is a natural to pair with anything that has citrus flavours. looking for a place to enjoy a picnic with your freshly purchased bounty?

Check out the pergola at Baillie-grohman estate Winery, where guests are welcome to bring their own food to eat along with a glass or bottle of wine purchased in the tasting rooms. glasses are supplied!

KOOTENAY ALPINE CHEESE “Handcrafted Mountain Cheese”

SummEr HOurS: Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10am to 5pm (May to Thanksgiving) WINTEr HOurS: Saturdays only 10am - 5pm (Thanksgiving to May) Cheese tasting and sales * Self-guided farm tours

Wayne & Denise Harris and Family 3071 16 St. Lister B.C. • 250-428-9655 (beside Lister Park, corner of 16 St. & Sinclair) Also available in Creston at: Paul’s Superette, Vital Health, Famous Fritz Meats and Deli, Pick of the Crop and Truscott Fruit Stands.

Keep your eye out for our upcoming line of Kootenay Meadows fresh dairy products, including glass bottled milk!

www.kootenayalpinecheese.com 30 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

asparagus is a notoriously challenging vegetable to pair with wine.

But a little creativity in the way it’s served can be gratifying, and worth the effort, too, with sutcliffe Farms being the largest asparagus producer in B.C. We recommend grilling the tasty spears after tossing them with olive oil, salt and pepper, laying them atop a couple of slices of hearty Creston Valley Bakery’s artisan bread, then slathering the works in an easy cheese sauce.

To a basic white sauce, add your favourite cheese — we are equally happy with alpindon or Nostrala, stir until it’s almost melted and quick as Bob (or Fred) is your uncle, you are ready to enjoy with any wine you prefer. The addition of curry in the sauce makes it a wonderful match with gewurztraminer. Want to make it especially suitable with a red wine? Kick it up a notch with a slice or two of crispy fried double smoked Famous Fritz bacon or one of Tom Fritz’s fabulous sausages. anthony Kwan, proprietor of Kootenay Thai restaurant, is a big fan of Creston Valley wines, so much so

the healthier choice!

No FillerS, No BiNDerS, No SUGar, No MSG aDDeD HORMONE-FREE BEEF & BUFFALO

Naturally Omega 3 enriched & Cholesterol reduced • Gluten Free Deli Meats • Everything proudly made on premises Tues - fri 9-6 • sa saT 9-5 • 1420 NW Blvd, HWy 3. CresToN • PH: 250-402-9050

that he’s created a special menu that pairs Baillie-grohman wines with some of his favourite Thai dishes.

Four different samples of wine and seven dishes are sure to excite those who enjoy asian food.

The following acts as a general guide to wine and food pairing: Light whites: ehrenfelser, Bacchus, siegerrebe, riesling, Muscat, Chenin Blanc, Chasselas, auxerrois, unwooded sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Try with asian style prawns or fish grilled on skewers, pork kabobs, or marinated grilled vegetables. medium whites: Pinot Blanc, Pinot gris, gewürztraminer, semillon and unwooded Chardonnay. Try with chicken satay, fish with a latin kick or calamari. rich whites: Oaked sauvignon Blanc, Meritage blends, oaked Chardonnay and reserve (oaked) Pinot gris. Try with grilled turkey breast, coho salmon or tandoori chicken.

Food with Wine

lOrNe eCKersley

Sirdar Vinyard, Wynndel, British Columbia

Tasting Room open Summer 2012

W

ynnwood Cellars vision is to create distinctive wines that reflect the terroir of this unique site above Duck Lake in the Creston

Valley of the Upper Columbia Basin. These wines will be wines of the “first shores” as this site, according to geologists, was the original west coast of North America. Above our southwest sloping vineyard one can see remnants left by ancient oceans and glaciers. This mineral rich soil gives our wines complexity and an ethos of antiquity.

5566 Highway 3A • 2 km north of Wynndel Store • 250-402-3687 Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 31

Your guide to fresh & local food in Creston, BC

Creston Valley

Grow Your Own Food Beltane Nursery Bedding plants & nursery stock. Cherries, apricots & peaches in season.

Evan Davies • 2915 Hwy 3, Creston 250-428-2062 • beltane.nursery@shawcable.com

Abbey Lane Farm Naturally grown garlic (fresh & dried), herbs, berries, fruit & vegetables. Sales at Farmers’ Market or by phone.

Joanne Gugelyk • 979 Sinclair Rd, Lister 250-428-5832

Brunham Farm Greenhouse Bedding plants, cactus plants, perennials.

Isabel Brunham • 3212 Beam Rd, Creston 250-428-5756 • abrunham@telus.net

Barkman’s Sunrise Farm U-pick & we-pick strawberries; sweet corn & apple juice in season; brown free-range eggs. Phone for appointment. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Garry & Bonnie Barkman • 3409 Hwy 3, Erickson 250-402-6442 • greenthumbbon59@gmail.com

Garden Hoe Farms Greenhouse growers of herbs, vegetable bedding plants, annual & perennial flowers & baskets. Fresh veggies in season. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Bev & Barry Timpany • 4813 Lower Wynndel Rd, Wynndel 250-866-5582 gardenhoefarms@wynndel.ca www.gardenhoefarms.com Itty-Bitty Seeds Naturally grown in Creston. Open pollinated, heirloom, GMO-free garden seeds. Tomato, lettuce & bean seeds. Farmers’ Market or online.

250-428-4339 ittybittyseeds@gmail.com • ittybittyseeds.blogspot.com JR Kids Orchard & Greenhouse Growing & retail sales of bedding out plants & pond plants.

Soft & firm fruits; tomatoes & cucumbers in season. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Joy Tomlinson • 2826 Erickson Rd, Creston 250-428-5438 Marianne’s Greenhouse Bedding plants. Freshly picked berries & vegetables in season.

Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Marianne Knopfler • 3621 Muzzy Rd, Canyon 250-428-9540 Morris Flowers Garden Centre Bedding plants, ornamental & fruit trees, shrubs, berries, foliage plants, nursery stock & garden accessories. Hothouse tomatoes, vegetables in season. Hosts fall Farmers’ Market.

Lloyd Morris • 1403 Erickson Rd, Creston 250-428-5262

crestonfoodaction.ca

Fruits & Vegetables

Palmer Greenhouse Bedding plants & nursery stock.

Ruth Palmer • 2619 Hwy 3, Creston 250-428-5154

LEGEND Certified Organic Natural (uncertified, but organic principles)

Blueberry Hill Farm U-pick & we-pick blueberries & other fruits.

Betty Armitage • 911 32 Ave S, Creston 250-428-8455 Castle Meadows Ltd. Vineyard with seven varieties of grapes; fresh, whole clusters, crushed with stems removed, or juice only. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

James McLeod • 2182 Corn Creek Rd, Creston 250-428-8841 • themcleods@westcreston.ca Creston Valley Vineyard Skeena cherries, Gala apples, Red Haven peaches, New Haven peaches, Early Crest Haven peaches, walnuts, hazelnuts.

Sandi & John Haley • 1227 27 Ave S, Creston 250-428-2423 • farmerjohnh@shaw.ca Duck Lake Berry Orchard U-pick saskatoons, chokecherries, red & black currants, jostaberries.

Hetty & Hans Vermeeren • 1331 Channel Rd, Wynndel 250-866-5792 Featherstone Farm Organic, biodynamic, yogic & permaculture practices. Vegetables, herbs, orchard, native flora & wild crafting.

Yana Siminiuk & Mike Doyle • 1550 Granary Rd, Creston 250-402-9934 • featherstonefarm@westcreston.ca Goat River Bed & Breakfast U-Pick cherries.

Sylvia & David White • 1046 Lamont Rd, Erickson 250-428-7134 • info@goatriverbnb.com Goat River Gardens Tomato bedding plants, naturally grown herbs, fresh produce.

Jean Hoover • 4340 Hwy 21, Creston 250-428-7540 • jehoover@shaw.ca Goat River Mushroom Company Fresh & dried Shiitake mushrooms.

Sylvia & David White • 1046 Lamont Rd, Erickson 250-428-7134 • grmushco@telus.net Leyh Orchard 13 varieties of apples. Apricots, peaches, pears, cherries, prune plums.

Bill Leyh • 2717 Erickson Rd, Creston 250-428-7324

Conventional (conventional farming practices) Kootenay Mountain Grown Certified Organic Good Agricultural Practices Integrated Pest Management Environmental Farm Plan

32 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

Let’s Grow Let’s Share Let’s Eat

Mo & Mikey Farms Soft fruits & vegetables. Sales at Farmers’ Market or by phone.

Maureen Byrne • 4281 Canyon-Lister Rd, Canyon 250-428-4530 • m_byrne@shaw.ca The Pickle Patch Pickle cannery – homemade tasty pickles of all varieties: dilled, sweet, spiced, pickled eggs & relishes. Fresh eggs. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Charlene Rast • 973 Reclamation Rd, Creston 250-428-8980 • picklepatch@westcreston.ca Pizza Farm Vegetable plants in spring, vegetables, sweet corn, plums.

2616 Erickson Rd, Creston 250-428-7234 • mom.wright@yahoo.com Rainbow Garden Naturally grown plants & all kinds of vegetables. Farmers Market.

Heidi Wille 250-428-9621 Romano’s Blueberries Blueberries.

Virginia & Cliff Romano • 2603 Sunset Blvd, Creston 250-428-2194 Root and Vine Acres Vegetables, fruits, berries, culinary herbs, eggs & poultry.

Jessica Piccinin • 2815 Erickson Rd, Creston 250-402-8475 • rootandvine@hotmail.com Sanders Produce U-pick strawberries. Raspberries, melons, apples, peas, beans, squash, sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers, garlic, onions, wheat & flour.

Roger Sanders • Channel Road, Wynndel 4902 Canyon-Lister Rd, Canyon 250-428-7351

Sutcliffe Farms Asparagus & other vegetable sales. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Doug Sutcliffe • 1300 Hwy 21, Creston 250-428-2734 Waljo Organic Orchard Apples, pears, apricots, cherries, peaches, & plums.

Please call ahead.

Wally Weisbrodt • 3111 Hwy 3, Creston 250-428-5729 Webber’s Mountainside Cherries Farm-gate sales of Lapin cherries. Hand-dipped chocolate dried cherries, dried apples, & all-natural chocolate bars with fruit.

Michele & Wade Webber • 5293 Bossio Rd, Wynndel 250-866-5573 • webber@wynndel.ca Willowbrook Farm Mixed vegetables. Case lot sales available in season.

Rhonda & Merv Sloss • 734 35 Ave N, Creston 250-428-3507 • rmsloss@kootenay.com

Duck Lake Bison Farm Family-raised quality bison meat. Fresh & ground garlic.

Michele & Chad Staggs • 1301 Duck Lake Rd, Wynndel 250-866-5730 • ducklakestaggs@uniserve.com Full Circle Farm Eggs, hard spring wheat, red fife wheat, rye, spelt, oats, buckwheat, peas & potatoes.

Drew & Joanne Gailius • 3510 Lloyd Rd, Canyon 250-428-8424 • fullcirclefarm@shaw.ca Golden Flax Farms Naturally-grown golden flax seed; flax straw.

Judy & Don Bala • 2673 24 St, Lister 250-428-2837 • hjbala@ymail.com K&C Huscroft Farms Khorasan, spelt, hard red spring wheat, rye. Premium horse hay.

Member of Kootenay Grain CSA. Carol & Keith Huscroft • 4150 12 St, Creston 250-428-3349 • kootenaygraincsa.ca King Creek Farm Fresh unpasteurized honey. “Homestead” and “Lavender” honey. Farmers’ Market sales.

Jim & Valerie Comer, Joel & Jen Comer • 732 Wilson Rd, Creston kingcreekfarm@yahoo.ca Kootenay Natural Meats Grass-finished certified Angus beef, lamb & chicken.

Farmers’ Market sales.

Wendy & Dale McNamar • 1205 15 Ave S, Creston 250-428-4034 • info@kootenaynaturalmeats.com kootenaynaturalmeats.com Lawrence Farm Spelt, hard red winter wheat, red fife wheat, lentils, & oats. Member of Kootenay Grain CSA. Roy & Sherry Lawrence • 325 Swan Road, West Creston 250-428-7556 • kootenaygraincsa.ca Lydia’s Lamb Katahdin lamb (hairsheep) halves or whole. Farm visitors welcome.

Lydia & Hans Bissig • 2372 20 St, Creston 250-428-3365 • bissigl@hotmail.com Mountain Harvest Farm Registered Berkshire hogs: whole, half & family freezer packs. MSG & gluten-free breakfast sausages. Honey, brown eggs.

Kyersten & Ian Kerr • 165 Reclamation Road, Creston 250-428-0390 R&S Meyer Farms Chicken & beef. Sides, quarters & ground beef available.

Hay of all types in small bales, delivery available.

Randy & Sheila Meyer • 2912 28 St, Creston 250-428-7013 Shell’s Little Greenhouse Blue, green, pink, brown free-range eggs.

Shelley Kitto • 1302 Lakeview Arrowcreek Rd, Creston 250-428-7274 Swan Valley Honey Bee Farms Ltd. Honey, pollination, pollen, propolis & comb honey.

Doug Knight • 7353 Hwy 3, Yahk 250-424-5320 • dknight6@telus.net

www.crestonvalleychamber.com

Sun Beam Farms Strawberries, pumpkins, hay.

Ginger & Ian Knudsen • 875 Hwy 3, Creston 250-428-4506

Big Rock Simmentals Purebred Simmentals breeding stock, beef & hay.

Larry Rast • 973 Reclamation Rd, Creston 250-428-8980

Funding provided by RDCK Areas B & C

Syroteuk Farms Fresh fruit, berries, veggies & flowers, in season. Farm gate & Farmers’ Market sales.

Jean & Merv Syroteuk • 801 11 Ave S, Creston 250-428-2994

Eggs, Meats, Grain & Honey

Farm Fresh Guide

Margo’s Farm Pesticide-free fruits: cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, apples, pears.

Margo Beaudry • 2813 Hwy 3, Creston 250-428-9782 • jbeau8@telus.net

Your guide to fresh & local food in Creston, BC

Fruits & Vegetables

Tarzwell Farms Beef: quarters, halves, whole, $100 packages. Ground beef available.

Abbattoir. Farmers’ Market sales.

Tom Tarzwell 250-428-4316 • tarzwell@shaw.ca

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 33

rosé: Try with Italian sausages — or almost anything.

Light reds: Unoaked or lightly oaked gamay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Try with pork chops, game hens, lamb popsicles,

BaIllIe grOhMaN

Jamie O’Neil and Lisa Elsworth own Real Food Cafe, which offers local wines and uses local produce.

mushrooms or burgers. rich reds: Oaked Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet sauvignon and Meritage blends, syrah/shiraz, Zinfandel. Try with steak, ribs, pork tenderloin with Cajun rub or butterflied leg of lamb. skimmerhorn Winery winemaker Mark rattray, who spends most of the year in his native New Zealand, is a food enthusiast whose hobbies include cheese making. he shares his own views about food pairing with skimmerhorn wines: ortega: although not high in acid as a riesling, it is still better suited to fish and more delicately flavoured foods where it will not swamp or be swamped. With its citrus flavours, it will complement lime- and lemon-infused dishes.

Pinot Gris: Quite low in acidity, it is best suited to richer dishes where butter based sauces prevail; the one will enrich the other. Well suited to fish and white meats only — with red meats at a stretch — and blue cheese.

Estate Winery

1140 -27 Ave South, Creston, BC Tasting Room open 11am - 4pm Thurs - Sunday • June 14 - Sept 3 Wine tours by appointment 250-428-8768 www.bailliegrohman.com

“Fruit grows... we nurture... You enjoY!” a unique Family experience

Local Produce, Dutch Licorice, gluten-Free Products and more!

2931 highway 3 creston, bc V0b 1G1 (250) 428-3070 www.cherrybrookfarms.ca familytree@cherrybrookfarms.ca

• 100% Natural dried cherries • cherry Juice hydropoNic lettuce • Family tree membership

34 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

W I N E R Y

&

Gewurztraminer is very similar to gris but able to handle spicier dishes, notably asian, but really quite an all-purpose wine from aperitif with nibbles to salads and the main event, although definitely not recommended with red meat. autumn tryst (a white blend) is an aromatic sweeter white but not sweet enough to be a dessert wine.

It is a great match with fresh stone fruits and a cheese platter, including blue cheeses. marechal Foch is an intriguing earthy red with a full but very soft mouth-feel and a touch of acidity, an excellent match with game and other red meats, tomato based casseroles and pasta dishes. Try also with cheese, but not blue.

Pinot noir is a classic wine for wild game but also a great match with pasta and Camembert and brie cheeses. For red wine lovers, its weight and softness means it will go with nearly everything!

V I N E Y A R D

Open April 4th to December 24th

Wineshop and FREE tasting bar 11am – 5pm Open daily July & August • Wednesday to Sunday Spring & Fall Summer Bistro 11am – 3pm Open Wednesday to Sunday • Reservations recommended Tours Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30pm, July through September

1218 27th Ave S., Creston, BC

250.428.4911 www.skimmerhorn.ca

blueberry patch

the

Food with Wine

“A Country taste at a friendly place”

U-pick & Ready Picked Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries & More Delicious lunches, baking and preserves Unique Giftstore & Candy Shop Scenic Country Setting School & Group Tours Summer Hours (May to September) Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 4:30pm Spring, Fall & Winter Hours— Hours Please call www.blueberrypatch.ca 2782-20th St Lister Hwy 21. S and follow signs 250-428-4647

farming still alive and well A

gritourism may be a growing area of tourism, but it’s hardly new to visitors to the Creston Valley. In fact, parents have been loading the kids into the car and driving to Creston to pick up fruit and vegetables for as long as most of us can remember. There’s something special about getting one’s food straight from the source.

Fitting into the larger sector of cultural tourism, agritourism offers a variety of unique experiences, from learning about the history of agriculture to sampling made-on-the-property products to picking strawberries right off the plant. With skyrocketing interest in food quality and security, more and more visitors to the Creston Valley are taking the time to learn about where their food comes from and to get hands-on experience.

Visitors might want to start their agritourism experience with a stop at the Creston Museum, where the valley’s rich agricultural history is honoured.

And tours abound — invest a few hours to learn about orchards or beer brewing or winemaking. Take some time to learn about making cheese, raising bison or growing blueberries.

Talk to the maker of your candies, the baker of your breads or the cook who creates your jams and jellies. Wander through a local market garden or shop at the Saturday Creston Valley Farmers’ Market at Millennium Park. Bite into a juicy cherry, nibble a piece of cheese or sip an award-winning wine or beer. Just ask the friendly staff at Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce

From C herries to Dairy

— they’ll be happy to make suggestions and provide directions.

Visitors to the Creston Valley experience an up-close-and-personal look at orchards as they change through the

peaches, apricots or pears — or grapeladen vines — never seems to fade.

Creston still has the Spartan apples and other varieties that made it a destination point over the decades. But

Some Creston Valley farmers still use horses when haying.

seasons. A variety of fruit crops means that blossom time generally begins long before the May long weekend’s Creston Valley Blossom Festival — and lasts long after. But the thrill of seeing trees in full bloom in spring or, a few short months later, hanging heavy with apples, cherries, plums,

lorne eckersley

changing market conditions have encouraged local growers to switch to cherries, particularly to the late-season varieties like Lapins, Sweethearts and Staccatos. With buyers around the world, including Asia and Europe, Creston’s orchards and several packing facilities are a hive of activity each

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 35

Creston Valley

Events and Festivities

For dates, details and more upcoming events, visit www.crestonevents.ca or www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca or call the Chamber of Commerce at 1-866-528-4342 or 250-428-4342

annual santa Claus Parade & Festival yahk Winterfest Kokanee Country snowmobile Club annual Poker run annual Women’s Valentine Bonspiel annual Men’s Butterfly Bonspiel Creston Valley Figure skating Club annual Ice show Creston Valley Home, Garden and leisure show Creston Valley Farmers’ Market Creston Valley Blossom Fest lower Kootenai Band yaqan nukiy Powwow Creston Valley Cruisers show & shine Creston Demolition Derby Creston Valley Heide Club’s May Blossom Dance Creston Valley Blitzz youth soccer tournament Barrel o rama and team roping Creston relay for life Creston Valley rotary Club Wine & art show Creston Valley Farmers’ Market Creston Valley Garden Club Garden tours Footlighters Presents “someone save my Baby, ruth” Creston Valley & eastshore artWalk Canada Day Celebrations starbelly Jam Music Festival at Crawford Bay yahk summerfest Creston Valley Fall Fair terry Fox run Gray Creek sailing regatta Creston Museum annual Quilt show & sale Creston Valley Cruisers Fall Campout show & shine Creston Valley Farmers’ Market Footlighters Presents “Fractured Fairy tales” Blue Heron Half Marathon & 10k run annual Ducks Unlimited Banquet & Dance Fundraiser CV Heide Club’s oktoberfest Halloween Hysteria annual Harvest Ball Images 2012 art show & sale art Council annual Christmas art & Craft Fair 36 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

From C herries to Dairy

A worker harvests grapes at the Baillie-Grohmann Winery.

summer as the race begins to get top quality fruit to its destination in pristine condition. Some orchardists are adding value to their cherry crop by drying the fruit or making juice.

A mix of the traditional (cherries are all hand-picked, often by travelling workers from Eastern Canada or Mexico) and the modern (rainfalls at ripening time are quickly followed by helicopters flying low over the orchards to blow water drops from the

lorne eckersley

fruit, and a couple of orchards feature trees that are covered by white nylon “tents”), the harvest employs hundreds of local and visiting workers, and injects millions of dollars into the local economy.

Visitors can enjoy making their fresh produce purchases directly from growers or from the fruit stands that line roads in and around the Creston Valley, home to most of the area’s fruit production. One lo-

Fields of ripe canola on the Creston Valley flats add an exciting contrast in summer colours.

cal orchard, Cherrybrook Farms, even offers customers the opportunity to lease a tree, which assures leaseholders a quantity of cherries from a well-tended tree.

A climate that features mild winters and warm summers, and some of the country’s most fertile soil are contributors to a diverse, thriving agricultural industry. Grain, beef, dairy and even bison operations dot the Creston Valley flats and the wide valley is an enticing lure, especially to prairie residents, many of whom have chosen to make this area home.

Of course, there’s more to agritourism than we can mention here, but think of bed and breakfast accommodations nestled into orchards, the opportunity to experience firsthand the benefits of the 100-Mile Diet, enjoying a conversation with a farmer or grower, the chance to buy fresh asparagus from the province’s largest producer, Sutcliffe Farms, or making a visit a fruit and vegetable stand where you can wander out back where trees are dripping with produce.

You will soon understand why Creston Valley residents don’t want to live anywhere else in the world.

dan caverly

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 37

fresh, fabulous food Enjoy A P

lanning a picnic? How about putting it together with all locally made products? Don’t plan the menu just yet. Take a drive out and meet the folks who work hard to provide quality food products, and enjoy the scenery as you move around the Creston Valley.

Local Lunch

much more, all on-site!

Many of the shop’s products are cholesterol reduced and enriched with omega-3 fatty acids. Tom uses only the finest ingredients according to old family recipes. Enjoy the wide variety of all-natural beef, bison and pork from the Creston Valley and Dawson Creek, B.C.

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In late July and early August, cherry orchards are buzzing with pickers harvesting the ripe fruit.

Start with a visit to Famous Fritz Meats and Deli, where Tom Fritz, a European-trained meat cutter and sausage maker, produces delicious European sausages, smokies, deli meat and

“Our customers love our quality and the fact that nothing gets added to our products that isn’t in the original family recipes — raw spices and meat,” Fritz said. “There are no fillers,

38 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

no binders, no sugar or MSG added to our products and they are gluten free, which is hard to find these days.”

Your next stop might be for organic cheese from Kootenay Alpine Cheese in Lister, right in the heart of farm country. There you will find three types of alpine-style cheeses made on the organic dairy farm of Denise and Wayne Harris and family — which are also served at the Real Food Café, which uses as many local products as possible, including beef, pork and cherries in its cooking.

How about some wine to go with your purchases? Located in Erickson, the Skimmerhorn Winery and Vineyard now has a half-dozen vintages behind it and the accolades continue to roll in. Wines made from Pinot Gris, Ortega, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir and Marechal Foch grapes have proven to be popular with critics and in the marketplace.

Marleen and Al Hoag will be happy to show off the many medals and trophies their wines have already accumulated in a few short years, in large part the result of skilled winemaker Mark Rattray, who has come to Creston for the fall in each of the last several years from his home in New Zealand. The wines can be taken home or enjoyed at the winery’s bistro, which features a patio overlooking the Skimmerhorn mountain range. New on the shelf this year is a limited edition of ice wine, featuring flavours that you have try to believe!

Right next door, Baillie-Grohman Winery produced its first vintage in 2009 and a small quantity of wine is

voted to growing asparagus, is Western Canada’s largest asparagus farm, and 1,200-1,800 pounds per acre are picked each year.

“Some say frozen asparagus is almost as tasty as it is when it’s fresh,” Sutcliffe says. “I say eating no asparagus is better than eating the frozen stuff. But that’s just me, I guess.”

Then make a final stop at Creston Valley Bakery where owner Yuri Jmaeff and his team turn out a dizzying array

use the finest ingredients and timehonoured traditions. In 2010, he introduced loaves of 100 per cent whole wheat flour made from wheat grown at Sutcliffe Farms.

“I think I have the only bakery in Canada that is growing its own wheat,” Jmaeff says with a smile.

The Creston Farm Fresh Guide features more than 40 food producers and related organizations with farmgate or market garden sales. Produced by the

lorne eckersley

now available for sale. Another Kiwi, Dan Barker, is in charge of making the wines. Sip from a selection that includes Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. You’ll have to wait a year for Creston’s first bubbly, the 2009 Blanc de Noirs from the winery owned by Petra Flaa and Bob Johnson.

Just west of Wynndel, Wynnwood Estate Winery is set to open its doors to customers early this summer. Made from grapes grown on a spectacular vineyard further west, on a hillside that slopes down to Duck Lake, Wynnwood wines promise to be distinct and of high quality.

The vineyard is located on a rare Creston Valley slope that includes limestone, the same mineral that is found in the Bordeaux region of France. The vines benefit from the late afternoon and early evening sun reflecting off the lake, adding to the heat units available to allow grapes to ripen to their full potential. Drop into the Highway 3A winery and tasting room for a sample and the chance to chat with winemaker and vineyard manager Dave Basaraba.

A non-alcoholic drink option can be found in the form of Tabletree black cherry or plum juice, where a pound of fruit results in a lip-smacking 8.5-ounce bottle of locally grown goodness. The juice is made on-site at the orchard owned by Gary and Susan Snow and is available at LW Truscott Farms, and was developed as a means to use fruit that can’t be sold fresh.

“Because the fresh market expects such a perfect cherry, we needed to come up with an alternate process for these cull cherries that are going to waste,” says Susan.

Tabletree now also produces a line of culinary sauces that are reductions of black cherry, plum and apple juice. They are perfect for cooking and baking, adding intense, fresh and all natural flavours.

Fruits and vegetables can be found all around the Creston Valley — just watch for the signs. Local cherries — fresh and dried — and other produce can be found at Cherrybrook Farms on Highway 3 in Erickson.

And for freshly picked asparagus, a visit to Sutcliffe Farms on the Creston flats is a must. With about 100 acres de-

Enjoy A Local Lunch

Lying down on the job is encouraged — in fact, required — when picking asparagus at Sutcliffe Farms.

of baked goods, including a different artisan bread each day.

The artisan breads are a healthy choice, made with whole grain flour, some with sourdough starters. All are created with Jmaeff’s commitment to

Creston Valley Food Action Coalition, an organization that promotes the access to and consumption of locally grown foods, it can be downloaded from www.crestonfoodaction.ca — or simply found on pages 32 and 33.

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 39

from the farm to your tablelley

Creston Va t e k r a M ’ s r e m r a F F

brian lawrence

40 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

rom a modest beginning eight years ago, the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market has grown stronger and bigger, with booths offering fruit, vegetables, honey, baking, jam — everything you might expect to find at a farmers’ market — and more, from locally-written novels to woodcarving to artwork.

“It offers visitors are a real cross-section of life in the Creston Valley,” says manager Jen Comer.

Those visitors are plentiful, with a whopping 1,200 attending the weekly Saturday market. And the average 45 vendors in 2011 are a far cry from the average 28 in 2010.

Comer attributes part of the success to the willingness of volunteers, who take on the task of promoting local food in their own way. When a monthly column slot became available in the Creston Valley Advance, she was quick to suggest that Heidi Bjarnason, a Creston resident who writes a blog at fooddoodles.com, use her skills to promote local food. In turn, Jo-Anne Schultz of the Great Canadian Cooking School used Bjarnason’s first published recipe in a demonstration at the farmers’ market two days later. Several other local food items found their way into Schultz’s popular weekly demonstrations.

“She worked hard at finding growers and what they wanted people to know about,” said Comer.

The market is co-ordinated by a Creston Valley Food Action Coalition committee, which took over from the Creston Rotary Club — it having taken over from volunteers — in 2010. It now runs on Saturdays beside Millennium Park from May to September, and at Morris Flowers Garden Centre from October to December.

Comer feels that the garden centre location is one of the factors that influenced the sense of community and camaraderie that now exists between market vendors.

Previously, she said, they tried to space themselves out in the parking lot next to Millennium Park, but in the greenhouse, they had no choice but to get chummy.

“There was no more sense of competition,” she said. “I think it was one of the first times the community realized it could be. It made it more lively, vibrant and entertaining.”

one province, two states, one loop nternational I

n 1999, the International Selkirk Loop was formed to promote international touring opportunities. The loop entices thousands of visitors and local residents to enjoy the scenery and towns in two states and a province, and to celebrate the close ties between neighbours on both sides of the border.

Marvel at the awesome beauty around every corner of the International Selkirk Loop, a 450-kilometre (280-mile) scenic drive encircling the spectacular Selkirk mountains in northeast Washington, northern Idaho and southeast British Columbia. Play on the loop’s crystal clear rivers and lakes, or traverse its mountain trails to view snowcapped peaks and the extraordinary variety of wildlife. Explore charming communities with fascinating history, fun festivals and picturesque settings.

Nearly the entire loop route follows rivers and lakeshores — creating great rides for motorcyclists — which historically were used for transportation by native tribes, explorer David Thompson, gold seekers on the Wild Horse Trail and early settlers. Today, the loop’s lakes, rivers and trails are a vast uncrowded playground with a myriad of opportunities for year-round recreation, scenic beauty and unique cultures.

The loop is one of only 32 All-American Road National Scenic Byways in the U.S., and is one of the top 10 scenic drives in the Northern Rockies. Rand McNally Road Atlas cited the ISL as one of its top 5 Best of the Roads.

Explore the International Selkirk Loop and discover the wonderful surprises that await you around every corner! For more information and driving, cycling and birding maps, visit www.selkirkloop.org.

I Selkirk Loop

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 41

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canvas, page and stage rts Abound C

The A in the Valley

reston Valley residents hardly bat an eye when they learn a newcomer is an artist. The area has become a cultural magnet to artists skilled in a wide variety of disciplines.

lorne eckersley

Cory Cannon teaches at the Wynndel Art Centre.

“Arts and culture are what define us and are very important components of a healthy community,” says Community Arts Council of Creston president Simon Lazarchuk. “Artists are drawn here because there is such a vibrant and supportive arts community in this valley.”

If there is a common thread to the many attributes of the Creston Valley, it is the diverse creativity of its residents.

It is especially evident among the area’s hundreds of artists and craftspeople.

Two of those, Sandy Kunze and Bruce Johnston, have turned a small

building behind the Wynndel Community Hall into the Wynndel Arts Centre, now a regular home to workshops and classes.

“We decided it was time to get more utilization out of what is a very nice little structure, and to get more community involvement in arts and cultural programs,” says Johnston.

Classes offered have included a beginner’s clay workshop, tile mosaics, ceramic jewelry and learning to draw, and in the works is an after-school teen program that will feature clay work, drawing, painting and jewelry.

Visitors won’t have to drive or walk far to get a firsthand look at the local arts scene. Murals large and small are scattered around the downtown area and a fun few hours can be enjoyed by wandering around to find them.

A huge bronze casting of the legendary sasquatch, created by a local artist, can be seen at Columbia Brewery on Erickson Street. Appropriately, the eight-foot high creature is making off with a case of Kokanee beer.

Art shows are a recurring theme in the Creston Valley, with local and regional juried shows held at varying times throughout the year.

Not to be missed is the annual Artwalk that runs each summer, inviting both art lovers and the curious to see the creations of dozens of artists in businesses and galleries from Yahk to Kootenay Bay. Travellers and locals alike delight in the many opportunities to meet artists and, often, see them busy creating works in their home galleries. More than two dozen galleries welcome visitors to

44 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

see paintings of every description, pottery and ceramics, beadwork, fabric art, candle making, ironwork, blown and stained glass, and even straw brooms.

Art of the written sort is everywhere, too. Many visitors will be familiar with the poignant and humourous series of books by bestselling author/ veterinarian Dr. Dave Perrin. From her home near Boswell, writer/teacher Luanne Armstrong writes fiction and non-fiction, much of it with a focus on her life in the Kootenays. Local environmentalist Tanna Patterson-Z is the author of Butterflies in Bucamaranga, which tells the story of a Creston man who was kidnapped while working in Columbia. Works by other local writers are available at Black Bear Books and Kingfisher Used Books. And there are writers’ and readers’ clubs that always welcome new members.

Movie fans will enjoy the chance to see first run films at a cinema with an old-time feel, the Tivoli Theatre. The “Tiv” also is home to a series of international films and documentaries presented monthly by the Friends of the Cinema, which has been known, on occasion, to serve wine and snacks as a thank you to supporters. Proceeds from Friends of the Cinema showings go to the Friends of the Library. The library, by the way, also presents regular showings of movies to members of the public. Included in the presentations is a monthly opera on video.

Top-notch live entertainment is brought in from out of town by the Creston Concert Society, which organizes an annual subscription series

of visiting professional entertainment in the Prince Charles Theatre, a 330-seat venue attached to Prince Charles secondary school.

The Creston Valley also has dozens of volunteers who present live productions throughout the year, entertaining residents and visitors at venues including the Prince Charles Theatre and Millennium Park. audiences have enjoyed nearly five dozen Footlighters Theatre society productions — ranging from comedies to thrillers, musicals to plays, concerts to shakespeare — since its creation in 1995. The group, which won best production at Theatre BC’s Mainstage festival in 2002, performs three shows each year.

The Footlighters 2012-2013 season kicks off at the Prince Charles Theatre in July with a melodrama, Someone Save My Baby, Ruth, on July 20 and 21. From Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Footlighters will present Fractured Fairy Tales, an evening of two one-act plays, Big Bad and The Storybook Reunion Murders,

before gearing up for a production of the musical Annie in april 2013.

For more than 20 years, audiences have enjoyed hearing the Blossom Valley singers, under the direction of anita stushnoff and Monte

The Arts Abound

says anderson with a laugh. “They like hearing some familiar songs, and they like hearing four-part harmony.”

The December concert features Christmas and holiday-themed mu-

The Blossom Valley Singers in their annual spring concert.

anderson. The group presents two concerts each year, one in the spring and one in December.

The spring concert has long been accompanied by a tea, which is enjoyed by people of all ages.

“They like any excuse for a tea,”

Yahk to Riondel since 1969

sic, performed by the Blossom Valley singers along with guests choirs and groups.

“The Christmas concert has become quite a tradition,” said anderson. “It makes people feel like it’s Christmas when they go to that one.”

ARTWALK

Working together for a Vibrant, Healthy and Sustainable Community.

& STUDIO TOURS July ~ August

Watch for upcoming Arts events posted at the Arts Kiosk at the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce.

www.crestonvalleyartscouncil.com info@crestonvalleyartscouncil.com 250-428-8852 • Box 464 Creston BC V0B1G0 We acknowledge the contribution, partnerships and financial support from CBT, Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, Town of Creston, Regional Directors, businesses, artists, audiences, volunteers and members.

Welcome to all the new residents and visitors.

Thanks to all the visual, fibre, handiwork, woodworkers, literary, performing, folk, music, heritage groups and individuals who bring colour, sound and vitality to our community.

BrIaN laWreNCe

2012

Creston Valley & Eastshore Artwalk Contact Andrea Revoy - cesartwalk@gmail.com cesartwalk.blogspot.com Artwalk - Encouraging a lively Arts Community

Footlighters 2 012 P r o d u c t i o n s Mar 29-31 Deathtrap

Nov 29 - Dec 1 Fractured Fairy Tales

Jul 20,21 Someone Save My Baby, Ruth

www.crestonfootlighters.com Creston, BC

COMMUNITY OF CRESTON

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 45

Cheryl Jaggers

ripe with

OppOrTuNiTy

The Creston Valley is a growing community, literally and figuratively. With the recent census the town of Creston has passed the 5,000 population mark, at 5,306. The valley population is around 16,000.

Lifestyle entrepreneurs will love the wide open valley, fabulous climate, mountains, rivers and lakes, friendly down-to-earth people, and the relaxed lifestyle.

Take advantage of the abundant opportunities in value-added agriculture, arts and recreation, eco-tourism, specialty retail and seniors’ services to name a few.

Home to the Columbia Brewery, makers of Kokanee Beer, the Creston Valley has seen several exciting developments in recent years. Following the success of our first winery and bistro, several vineyards have been started and a second award winning winery is already in production. Other developments include a handcrafted artisan organic cheese maker, a fruit juice manufacturer, expanded commercial farm markets, a rapidly growing community farmers’ market and several specialty growers/producers.

Tim Hortons’ opened in 2010. That year also saw the grand opening of an $18 million dollar expansion to our rec centre, including an indoor aquatic centre and fitness rooms.

In 2011 the arena had major renovations.

Crestbrook Gardens, a housing complex for Seniors’ and Persons with Disabilities opened in the Fall, 2011.

Creston Place, a new three-level office and retail building in downtown Creston opened in 2012. Reinforcing the municipalities’ “open for business” approach, town council introduced a Revitalization Tax Exemption Program to encourage development initiatives in commercial areas. As a result, our first branded hotel, a Ramada Inn and Conference Centre, is opening Spring 2012.

Creston is a great place to put down roots To find out how you can grow with us, contact: Jim Jacobsen, Executive Director Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce 121 NW Blvd. Highway 3, Creston, BC 1.866.528.4342 or email j.jacobsen@crestonvalleychamber.com

The Beautiful Creston Valley Visitor Centre 121 NW Blvd. 1.866.528.4342 info@crestonvalleychamber.com 46 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

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creston public libraryuch More I

So M Than Books “For Creston residents, we love the fact that books remain the biggest draw to the library,” says chief librarian Ann Day. “We are avid readers in the valley and the range of interests cover most of the Dewey numbers.”

But the library’s focus extends beyond books, with an extensive collec-

With a comprehensive collection of books (including large print and audio), music, videos and magazines, the library literally has something for everyone. And there’s a strong emphasis on kids, with a dedicated children’s section and regularly scheduled story times.

tion of movies and TV series on DVD, as well as a facility to create audiovisual presentations.

“The Creston library takes advantage of the newest technologies and the oldest to bring information, communication, education and entertainment to everyone coming in its doors,”

brian lawrence

t’s one of the Creston Valley’s best-used and most beloved institutions. The Creston and District Public Library opened in its expansive new premises at 531 16th Ave. S. in 2006 and it quickly became one of the community’s focal points.

48 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

says Day. “This includes everything from an extensive book and magazine collection to an audio-visual room where, among many other things, you can make your own radio program or put a film on YouTube.”

The technological features of the Creston and District Public Library are a big draw for tourists, who are also able to sign out books if they have a BC One Card.

“For visitors to the area, technology is the major reason for dropping in,” says Day. “We have both wireless and public computers available for residents, outof-town visitors or seasonal workers.

“The BC One Card has also opened most of our collection to library cardholders from any library in B.C. This new service is gaining recognition, and our library is seeing an increasing number of books and audio books going out to visitors from B.C.” The library also features a permanent art collection in addition to month-long displays of works by local artists.

“We also provide a place to view local artwork, join any of the many organizations using the meeting room, watch an instructional DVD, read a paper, or bring your kids or grandkids for a morning in the kids’ area,” says Day. “We also have mentors for struggling students and one of the busiest interlibrary loan departments in the province. Again, most of these services do not require you to be a patron — just drop in.”

For more information, contact the library at 250-428-4141 or visit www. crestonlibrary.com.

Lower Kootenay Band g Tradition Keepin

T

hey are only about 200 strong, but members of the Lower Kootenay Band are closely associated with all historical and cultural aspects of the Creston Valley. From their traditional hunting, fishing and foraging history, Lower Kootenay elders continue to promote the values of environmental responsibility and respect for the band’s rich past.

From a business that sells modern and traditional Lower Kootenay creations (and which houses a wealth of information about local heritage) to a large expanse of managed wetlands to the annual Yaqan Nukiy traditional powwow, the band members strive to live in the modern world while still honouring their past.

All visitors are invited to the annual powwow, held on the May long weekend, where First Nations people gather from miles around to dance, feast, socialize and celebrate their culture.

Chief Jason Louie says he is committed to building stronger relationships with residents and local governments in the Creston Valley.

“There are aspects of being from Creston that are unique — swimming in the summer at the Goat River, going to the Broaster House or Sun R Restaurant,” said Louie, a former second lieutenant in the Canadian Forces. “Only in Creston will traffic come to a halt to allow you to jaywalk! Being from Creston means having a strong sense of community.”

Located on Highway 21, south of Creston, Lower Kootenay isn’t just home to its members. It boasts a cultural and administrative centre, a lively school and a growing industrial development that includes a log sorting yard and log home building operation, as well as Legend Logos, an embroidery business that offers culturally-inspired clothing and home decor. Historical and cultural displays help visitors get a greater appreciation for the role the Lower Kootenay people have played in the Creston Valley.

Nearby, thousands of acres on the flatland are managed for sustainability, with an eye to responsible economic development opportunities.

Alive

A dancer at the Yaqan Nukiy Powwow, held each May.

brian lawrence

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 49

hiking and hunting dventures

M

Outdoor A

any locals will admit that hiking in the Creston Valley is one of their favourite pastimes — one that everyone should experience. Not only does it promote good health, but it’s also a great social activity. Difficulty levels vary, but it’s easy to find an outdoor experience suitable for almost everyone.

“I like taking to the trails here because they offer a wide variety of landscapes, wildlife and serenity, as well as various levels of ease or difficulty,” says naturalist Ed McMackin, who writes an outdoors column in the Creston Valley Advance. “People will find a trail here to suit any level of ability and time available.

“There are trails from level to steep,

arnold labrentz

A moose on Mount Thompson, east of Creston.

50 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

and from short to long. Some are best for viewing wildlife while others are interesting for their historical value.

There are many trails away from the noise of traffic, which can be enjoyed without driving long distances to reach them. There are organized hikes so people don’t have to hike alone, making hiking a social and safe experience.”

A couple of books — Exploring the Creston Valley by Tanna Patterson-Z, available at Black Bear Books, and Hiking Around Creston by John and Jean Davis, available at Kingfisher Used Books — are comprehensive guides to Creston Valley hiking, complete with maps, photos and sketches.

Here are a few favourites: •Balancing Rock Trail. Ten minutes west of Creston, this is one of many trails on Mount Creston. It takes about 30 minutes to climb the winding trail, parts of which are quite steep. Balancing Rock (hikers will understand the name when they see it) sits atop a ledge overlooking the Creston Valley and Purcell mountain range. A small pullout on West Creston Road, near its intersection with Highway 3, serves as a parking area.

From Balancing Rock, the trail leads west into the woods. When the trail forks, heading left takes hikers on a very steep hike a few kilometres further up Mount Creston. The trail to the right winds its way down the other side of the ridge and into Summit Creek Park.

•Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area. Although the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area’s interpretive centre isn’t open all year, the trails surrounding it are. From Highway 3 west of Creston, turn onto West Cres-

hikers may wander through alpine meadows on the ridge, or enjoy a picnic with a panoramic view of

hart Beach Provincial Park. The first seven kilometres of the trail — maintained by the BC Forest Ser-

arnold labrentz

ton Road and drive to the parking lot on the left. The trails are well-marked and easy to find on maps posted in the area.

•Lady’s Slipper Trail. A wide variety of wildflowers, including orchids, may be found on this trail, located north of Creston atop Goat Mountain. To access this trail from Creston, follow Highway 3A north, then turn right onto Lakeview-Arrow Creek Road. Follow this road to Foster Road, then turn left onto the BC Forest Service road and follow it for about seven kilometres until it ends at a parking lot.

•Mount Thompson. To access the top of the mountains overlooking Creston to the east, head east on Highway 3, then turn right onto Canyon-Lister Road. After crossing the bridge, turn left on Whimster Road and follow it to a forestry road (suitable only for high-clearance or four-by-four vehicles), which winds to the top of Mount Thompson. After parking,

Outdoor Adventures

Trails at the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area offer spectacular fall views.

the Selkirk mountains to the west and south, and the Purcell mountains to the east.

•Lockhart Creek. This trail is located about 45 minutes north of Creston on Highway 3A at Lock-

vice and the Lockhart Creek Heritage Committee — are suitable for beginning hikers, while advanced outdoors enthusiasts can continue to the 2,134-metre summit. The park offers treed campsites, picnic

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 51

Outdoor Adventures tables and beach, located across the highway near the trailhead.

•Pilot Bay Lighthouse Trail. Near the Kootenay Bay Ferry landing, just over an hour north of Creston on highway 3a, turn onto Pilot Bay road. after 4.5 kilometres, a sign reading “lighthouse Trail” will alert drivers to pull well off the road, or park a short distance away at a circular turnaround. at the end of the 15-minute walk along the trail is the Pilot Bay lighthouse, which operated from June 13, 1904, to June 20, 1993, and is now maintained by the Friends of West Kootenay Parks.

•Mountain biking is also popular, and many local bikers enjoy frequenting the numerous logging roads in the area. The more adventurous prefer to take their bikes off-road and onto bumpier trails — a helmet, water bottle and riding buddy are a must!

For bikers who prefer the open road, the Wynndel loop (highway 3a and lower Wynndel road), the

Canyon-lister loop (highway 21, Canyon lister road and highway 3) and the West Creston loop (evans road, West Creston road, Nick’s Island road and highway 3) are popular. an interactive cycling map is online at www.selkirkloop.org.

L

ooking to bag the “big one”? Want to try your hand at fly fishing? Planning to fill the freezer with fresh game? The Creston Valley is an excellent place to make these outdoor dreams become reality.

Duck lake is famous for bass fishing, and Kootenay lake is teeming with rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and kokanee. and the seemingly endless streams and alpine lakes in the Kootenays certainly make fly fishing a viable option.

Duck lake is also a popular winter fishing spot, and is almost always frozen by the end of December. This small lake 20 minutes north of Creston is well-known to summertime

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bass fishers, but makes an excellent spot for families to enjoy this winter activity — and try out some skating for good measure.

The Creston Valley has some of the Kootenays’ best big game hunting, and the marshland on the flats is a prime location for setting up blinds and decoys to hunt waterfowl.

To hunt or fish, a valid licence is required, and these may be purchased at sirdar general store, Wynndel Foods or the service BC office on Canyon streeet. all the necessary equipment is available at Mawson’s sports in Creston or at Wynndel Foods.

Vic Mawson, father of current proprietor Fred Mawson, founded the shop in 1918.

“We’re one of the oldest sporting businesses in B.C.,” says Mawson. anytime you’re in the great outdoors, be wary of bears, both grizzly and black. a visit to www.bearaware. ca is the best way to find information on dealing with the creatures.

The best place to stay!

N

F GOL GES A E K C PA ILABL AVA to Cranbook

Erickson Rd.

Creston’s Newest and Largest RV Park The Only GOOD SAM PArk in Creston Big Rigs Welcome 15-30-50-Amp Service Seniors’ Discounts Weekly/Monthly Rates OPen All YeAr Sparkling Clean Washrooms Telephone/Fax: (250) 428-2347 Toll FREE: 1-866-223-DICE www.PAirADicePArk.cOM 52 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

44 sites incl Pull-thrus & Big Rigs High Speed Internet•Cable TV Tents • Pets ok 15 or 30 amp with full hookups Close to downtown & parks Clean Washrooms • Laundry facilities 1409 Erickson Rd • www.scottiesrv.com Open Year Round 1-800-982-4256 • 250-428-4256

KOZYOpenR.V. all year

Indoor Heated pool Showers Laundry Kitchen Weekly Rates Full & Partial Hookups 3003 Hwy #3 Creston kozygal@kootenay.com 250-428-4143

in the dark! The products, made with a goat-milk base, aren’t the only unique things about the business — the goats on the roof are also a popular attraction.

To top it all off, the residents of Yahk really know how to have a good time.

The community hosts an annual Winterfest and Summerfest, both of which

The Moyie River, which runs through Yahk, is a peaceful place to relax.

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feature seasonal games and fantastic food, with music jams and concerts in between, at the Yahk-Kingsgate Community Hall, which offers a pavilion in the woods for music acts.

“We have a community full of spirit and camaraderie, working together to create a community we want to live in and share,” says Anderson.

Laundry

Playground

50

brian lawrence

Fire Pits

Sani Dump

56

Pool

Tent Sites

Many tourists are excited to find good shopping in Yahk — the Yahk Soap Company offers soap and other related bath products. The soaps include Kauai ginger blossom and blackberry musk, while others are a bit more fun, with names like Beaver Butt and Cougar Booger. There’s also the Skinny Dipper Delight soap, which actually glows

Hookup

Bayshore Resort 13165 Hwy 3A Boswell, BC 250.354.4370 250.223.8270 Kozy RV Park 3003 Hwy 3 Creston, BC 250.428.4143 Mountain Park Resort 4020 Hwy 3E Erickson, BC 1.877.428.2954 250.428.2954 Pair-A-Dice RV Park & Campground 1322 Northwest Blvd. Creston, BC 1.866.223.3423 250.428.2347 Scotties RV Park 1409 Erickson St. Creston, BC 1.800.982.4256 250.428.4256

campsites available from the Victoria Day long weekend through Sept. 30.

For those who don’t like to camp, Yahk has two motels — one of which, built in 1912, still operates under its original licence — and the small settlement even has a laundromat for visitors’ convenience.

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visit to Yahk is the perfect way to relax. The Moyie River burbles softly, the forest smells fresh and — best of all — cellphones don’t work (seriously).

The fact that it’s not a bustling metropolis is what draws thousands of tourists each year. It’s quaintness and small-town friendliness are welcomed by many big-city visitors — and even some rural ones.

Just down the street — actually, Johnson Road — is Two Scoop Steve and the Coffee Cabin, which offer the best ice cream and coffee in Yahk.

While sipping a cup of joe or licking a scoop, a stroll to the Moyie River is a must. Visitors simply wander behind the shop and follow the signs through the forest.

“Yahk’s atmosphere is quiet and relaxing, and the people are helpful and friendly,” says artist and Yahk resident Penny A.P. Anderson. “It is a destination for outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, quadding, hiking, hunting, fishing, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting and swimming — or taking a leisurely walk along the river with an ice cream cone.”

A nine-hectare provincial park is located at the heart of Yahk, with 26

Groceries

f n U t u B l l a m S

# of Pull Through

A

to yahk and back orgettable

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Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 53

L

Exploring the east shore oad R e k a L e h t e k a T

ocated about 25 kilometres below the southern tip of Kootenay Lake, Creston is the perfect starting point for a variety of daytrips — which should definitely include a tour north along Highway 3A, which offers far more than breathtaking scenery.

On Lower Wynndel Road, don’t pass up a visit to Garden Hoe Farm, where owners Bev and Barry Timpany will tour you around, and you will be amazed by the many different scents of fresh herbs and vegetables.

Wynndel is also home to Sutcliffe Farms, operated by Doug Sutcliffe,

The Glass House, located on Highway 3A.

Resorts, beaches, art galleries and artisan shops can easily be found throughout the journey, which takes just over an hour — if you can possibly keep from stopping.

Ten minutes north of Creston on the way to Kootenay Lake is Wynndel, a small community strongly rooted in agriculture. Once one of Canada’s largest fruit producers, the community now has smaller farms growing strawberries, raspberries and saskatoons.

brian lawrence

grandson of Roy Staples, the mastermind behind the dike between Creston and Wynndel, which keeps the spring freshet from flooding the prime agricultural land on the Wynndel flats. The farm is the largest asparagus producer in the province, turning out about 150,000 pounds each season from April to June.

While passing through Wynndel, one can’t help but notice the Wynndel Box and Lumber sawmill, which was

54 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

started by Monrad Wigen in 1913 to build crates for Wynndel’s then-thriving strawberry business.

Farther north is the hamlet of Sirdar, where visitors can enjoy the oldfashioned feel of the Sirdar General Store, built in 1913, where many of the goods offered are kept behind the counter. Next door, the Sirdar Pub and Grill is the perfect place for a tasty meal — and the non-drivers may enjoy the longest beer menu in the Creston Valley.

A bit past Sirdar, a visit to the Glass House is a must. Although the area is filled with unique architecture, the Glass House is the most unusual — its walls were made from over 500,000 empty embalming fluid bottles by David H. Brown upon his retirement from his funeral business. Guided tours of the attraction are available seven days a week from May through October.

Continuing north on Highway 3A brings travellers to Boswell, the home of Flickering Goddess, a shop that specilizes in fairies and candles, many of which are handmade at the shop, which you can’t miss — it’s hot pink.

Just past that is the Destiny Bay Store, a convenience store around the halfway point of the trip from Wynndel to Kootenay Bay. Travelling still farther north brings visitors to Gray Creek, home of Sacred Journey, a relaxing shop packed with original artwork by local artists as well as quality imports from around the globe — just try to leave without buying something!

For almost 100 years, the Gray Creek Store has been the small community’s one-stop shop, with everything from

books to boots and candy to wood stoves. Arthur Lymbery started the store in 1912; the current owner is his son, Tom Lymbery, who is always happy to talk about the community’s history.

Gray Creek is also the starting point of a forestry road that connects to Kimberley — although

Take the Lake Road

everything from jewelry to fridge magnets to light switch covers are made from glass melted on copper — owners Lorna Robin and Helene Carter agree.

“Customers come in a lot and say, ‘I never imagined that was how it was made,” says Robin.

“People like to see something be-

the Order of the Phoenix and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

“We’ve gone from people coming in and being surprised to find us out here in the middle of nowhere … to coming in and saying, ‘This is the famous broom shop,’” says Rob. An event that draws many visitors to Crawford Bay is Starbelly

(From left) Lorna Robin at Fireworks Copper and Glass; Rob Schweiger at North Woven Brooms; a blacksmith at Kootenay Forge.

you’ll need a high-clearance vehicle to get through and take in the rarely seen alpine scenery.

From Gray Creek, it’s only a hop, skip and a jump to Crawford Bay, which is home to more than a dozen artisan shops, including a blacksmith, a broom maker, a baker and a glassblower. None of them are in competition — in fact, they enjoy having each other nearby.

“One thing I really enjoy about being here is the camaraderie,” says Janet Wallace, who runs Barefoot Handweaving in a straw-bale building. “I can hear the forge, I can hear the glassblowers working. If I really feel like being inspired, I just go over and watch them getting a buzz on about what they’re doing.”

Visitors also get a kick out of the rare opportunity to see so many artisans hard at work.

“People are just astonished,” Wallace says.

Across the highway at by Fireworks Copper and Glass — where

ing made and have that connection to buying it,” adds Carter.

Add to the mix pubs, restaurants, Kootenay Lake and hiking, and you have a recipe for a great rural getaway.

“We have so many amazing things to do that I find people are staying, which is nice,” says Wallace.

“There’s enough to do now that people will come for the day.”

Across Highway 3A and slightly west of Wallace’s shop is the home of North Woven Brooms, which you may not have heard of, but have likely seen — the brooms have been used as props or set dressing in such films as Bewitched, The Assassination of Jesse James and Shanghai Noon, on TV series including Star Trek: Enterprise, Lonesome Dove and Road to Avonlea, and on Broadway in the 2004 revival of Fiddler on the Roof.

The best-known brooms owners Rob and Janet Schweiger have made were promotional items for the Canadian publisher of Harry Potter and

brian lawrence

Jam, held this year from July 20-22.

Past editions of the music festival have included a wide range of entertainment from acoustic rock to hip hop to jazz, which creates a weekend that is as entertaining as it is memorable.

“There is one beautiful moment after another,” says founding board member Brigitte Picard.

Ten minutes north of Crawford Bay is the Kootenay Lake ferry landing, which is serviced by the M.V. Osprey 2000 and M.V. Balfour, which were launched in 2000 and 1950, respectively. Although the Osprey 2000 can carry more than twice the capacity of the Balfour, both free ferries are capable of taking aboard semis, logging trucks and RVs. Be sure to arrive in plenty of time in the busy summer months, as waits of several sailings are common. But once you get on, enjoy the ride — the longest free ferry ride in the world — as you prepare for the next adventure!

Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 55

Fishing ChaRtERs

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866-931-8464 artisansofcrawfordbay.com

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The Glass house A B o s w e L L AT T r A C T i o N

This showplace of Kootenay Lake is located 25 miles North of Creston on Hwy 3A Boswell, BC Ph: 250-223-8372

56 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

CENTURY 21 Veitch Realty – Creston 1131 Canyon Street, Creston, BC 1-866-428-9331 Sales@C21Creston.com

Photo by: Sara Rainford; Courtesy of KootenayRockies.com

Kootenay Lake Food Services:

Beverages & snacks are available on the MV Osprey 2000 only.

Winter Schedule:

January 1 - June 17, September 10 - December 31 (Pacific Standard Time)

Summer Schedule: June 18 - September 9 (Pacific Standard Time)

Anticipate Delays during peak times between 9am - 7pm daily.

KOOTENAY BAY Terminal Vessel Osprey 2000

Summer

Winter

7:10 AM

7:10 AM

Osprey 2000

9:00 AM

9:00 AM

Osprey 2000

10:40 AM

10:40 AM

M.V. Balfour

11:30 AM

Osprey 2000

12:20 PM

M.V. Balfour

1:10 PM

Osprey 2000

2:00 PM

M.V. Balfour

2:50 PM

Osprey 2000

3:40 PM

M.V. Balfour

4:30 PM

Osprey 2000

5:20 PM

M.V. Balfour

6:10 PM

Osprey 2000

7:00 PM

12:20 PM 2:00 PM 3:40 PM 5:20 PM 7:00 PM

Osprey 2000

8:40 PM

8:40 PM

Osprey 2000

10:20 PM

10:20 PM

Balfour Terminal Vessel

Summer

Winter

Osprey 2000

6:30 AM

6:30 AM

Osprey 2000

8:10 AM

8:10 AM

Osprey 2000

9:50 AM

9:50 AM

M.V. Balfour

10:40 AM

Osprey 2000

11:30 AM

M.V. Balfour

12:20 PM

Osprey 2000

1:10 PM

M.V. Balfour

2:00 PM

Osprey 2000

2:50 PM

M.V. Balfour

3:40 PM

Osprey 2000

4:30 PM

M.V. Balfour

5:20 PM

11:30 AM 1:10 PM 2:50 PM 4:30 PM

Osprey 2000

6:10 PM

6:10 PM

Osprey 2000

7:50 PM

7:50 PM

Osprey 2000

9:40 PM

9:40 PM

www.westernpacificmarine.com Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 57

525,000

5,460,000

To Kootenay Lake Ferry

530,000

                               

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

5,455,000

5,455,000



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5,460,000

520,000

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 

 

Summit Creek Recreation Area

5,445,000

       

5,445,000

 

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5,440,000

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5,440,000

CVWMA Administration Office



 Legend

       

Gate Parking Canoe Launch

Wildlife Intrepretation Centre

   

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  

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Highway Dyke Road(Vehicle Access) Area Closed to Hunting at ALL Times

 

0

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Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area - Boundary

Kilometers UTM - Zone 11 - NAD83

Ministry of Environment Region 4 LEH Zone C Boundary Wildlife Management Unit Boundary

www.dynamicoutlook.com

58 520,000 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce 525,000 Visitors’ Guide 2012

530,000

Brian Lawrence

North to the junction of Hwy 3 & Hwy 3A

12th Ave N

Murdoch St Alder St

Library

27th Ave N

26th Ave N

2 3r d A v e N

2 4 t h Av e N

24th Ave S

S un

set

Blvd

Dogwood St Cedar St

Maple Pl

Erickson St

25th Ave S

Birch St

Elm St

Birch St Ash St 24th Ave S

Columbia Brewery

RCMP

Pine St

St

Cook St

Elm St

Dogwood St Cedar St

yon

2 2 n d Av e S

16th Ave S

Coo k St

18th Ave S

11th Ave S

Ash St

1 4 t h Av e S

10th Ave S

Birch St

Juniper St

Crawford St Can

Aspen Pl

2 5 t h Av e S

Goat River Rd S

Connell Rd

2 7 t h Av e S

Rd 1 6 t h Av e S

ett

Centennial Park

3

Cedar St

11th Ave S

er

7th Ave S

6 t h Av e S

5 t h Av e S

Ev

Millennium Park

Cedar St

9 t h Av e S

eS

8 t h Av e S

7th Ave S

6th Ave S

3 r d Av

Birch St

1 6 t h Av e N

14th Ave N

College of the Rockies

Dogwood St

Dugan St

Davis St

Pine St

Cook St

lvd Elm St

Cedar St

15th Ave N

Canyon St

12th Ave N

11th Ave N

7 t h Av e N

4 t h Av e N

5 t h Av e N

yB

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2 n d Av e S

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Canyon St Cook St

Ra

Creston Valley Hospital Community Complex

2 0 t h Av e N 21st Ave N

Lilac St

22nd Ave N

Hurl St

Hillside St

Vancouver St Pine S t

Visitor Centre 121 NW Blvd.

250-428-4342

McLaren St

20th Ave S

11th Ave N

1 0 t h Av e N

12th Ave N

Alder St

8th Ave N

ve N

Murdoch St

18th Ave S

11th Ave N

9th Ave N

6th A

Regina St

14th A ve N

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Ibbitson St

?

Dale St

Scott St

Scott S t

21

Hurry Rd

Westridge St 12th Ave N

Cavell St

Hillside St

Arrowsmith Rd

11th Ave N

7th Ave N

st Blvd r

lkir Kootenay River Rd

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Creston Museum

Creston, B.C.

1 0 t h Av e N

Devon St

Skimmerhorn and Baillie-Grohman Wineries

Discovery real estate OutstandIng agents OutstandIng Results

100% Locally owned and Independently operated

two offices serving the creston valley 1013 canyon st. creston 106 33rd ave. s. hwy. 3 erickson Toll Free: 1-877-428-2234 Office: 250-428-2234

www.remaxcreston.com Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012 | 59

Creston Valley Wildlife

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Rd

Wilson Rd

Win

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Wenger Rd

Cardinal Rd

Daignault Rd

Vincent Rd

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© Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce 2012 121 NW Blvd • 250-428-4342

C o rn C ree k Rd

Mc Ka y R d

Wes t Creston Rd

ote na

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Gr a n ar yR

Potato

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Ha ns

Sw an

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Nick s

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Ho od Rd

Hil ton S t

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Rykerts

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3 7t h St

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C on n e l R d

Ca nyon S t

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Er ic k so n St

40th St

Al dr i

Lower Kootenai Reserve

Simon Rd

H i lt o n S t

Payne R d

Ramsier R d

li u tc

R iv erview Rd

Helen S t

7 th St

sR

d

8th St

16th St

2 0t h St

24 t h St

4

ll rth i Po

18th St

28t h St

3 0 th S t

38 t h S t

Rd

37th St

14th St

Rd

Rd

4 th St

Huscroft

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an

Rd

o a t C any o

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16th St

46th St

40 th St

3

8th St

12 th St

24 th St

t 28 t h S

Lister

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28th St

Rd

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Syl vester R d

Ha s k i n s

Rd

Rd

Knigh t

Mas uch Rd

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Riley Rd

Beam Rd

Erickson

Creston Valley Regional Airport A i r p o rt R d

P h i ll i p s R d

ve N

Col lis St

Rd

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Reclamat io n R d

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3

A dle r Rd

3 3 rd A v e S 32nd Av e S

33 r d A v e S P ogany Rd

40 th Av e S

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Ha g ey R d

35 th Ave N

h Ave S

35t Rd

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C r es t v i e w R d

Rd

44 t h S t

P a rker

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38th Av e N

S et t leme

L i s t er R d

Lister Rd

Z app Rd

36 t h A v e S 3 6

Si ncla ir Rd

Sinclair Rd

lo

H u sc r o f t R d

Everett Rd

l Ma

Wellspring Rd

Muzzy Rd

Bl v d 3 2n d S t

44 t h S t

48th St

4t h St

36th St

43rd S t

51st St

52nd St

5

Ho

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Canyon

yton Rd Cla

Canyon-Lister Rd

Eva ns R d 16th Ave S

C an yo n -Lis t e r R d

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C a ny o n-Lister Rd

hw Va nce R d

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Av e N 27th Ave S

Can yon-L ist er Rd

11th Ave S Spr

Lloyd Rd

8th nR

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S amuelson Rd

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De

Lyon s Rd

v th A

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Quin t on Rd

10 r Rd

J a c k so n R d Pu rce ll Rd

Mehre

Well Rd spri ng

R o ge r s R d

Recla ma tion R d

F

E

D

Index to the Creston and District Map

Within the Town of Creston, numbered avenues run north and south and named streets run east and west. Numbered avenues start at the Highway 21 municipal boundary, and Canyon Street is the north-south divider. In the Valley area north from the U.S. border, numbered streets run east and west, with named roads running north and south.

Name 1st Ave NW 2nd Ave S 3A Hwy 3rd Ave S 4th Ave N 4th Ave NW 4th St 5th Ave N 5th Ave S 6th Ave N 6th Ave S 6th Ave S 7th Ave N 7th Ave S 7th St 8th Ave N 8th Ave S 8th St 9th Ave N 9th Ave S 10th Ave N 10th Ave S 11th Ave N 11th Ave N 11th Ave S 12th Ave N 12th St 14th Ave N 14th Ave S 14th St 15th Ave N 16th Ave N 16th Ave S 16th St 18th Ave S 18th St 20th Ave N 20th Ave S 20th St 21st Ave N 22nd Ave N 22nd Ave S 23rd Ave N 24th Ave N 24th Ave S 24th Ave S 24th St 25th Ave S 26th Ave N 27th Ave N 27th Ave S 28th St 30th St 32nd Ave S 32nd St 33rd Ave S 35th Ave N 35th Ave S 36th Ave N 36th Ave S 36th St

Grid

C3 B4 A2 B4 B4 C3 F4,5 B4 B4 A4 B4 B4 A4;B4 B4 F4 A4;C3 B4 F4 A4 B4 A4;C3 B4 B4 A4 B4,5 A4;B4 F5 A4;B5 B5 F4,5 B5 B5 B5 F4 B5 F4 B5 B5 E4 B5 B5 B5 B5 B5 B5 B5 E4,5 B5 A5 B5 B5 E4,5 E4 D4 E5 D4 C4 D4 D4 D4 E5

37th St 38th Ave N 38th St 40th Ave S 40th St 41st Ave 43rd St 44th St 46th St 48th St 51st St 52nd St Abbot Rd Adler Rd Airport Rd Alder St Aldrich Rd Antique Trailer Pk Arrowsmith Rd Ash Rd Ash St Aspen Pl Balsam Rd Bathie Rd Beam Rd Birch St Birch St Bossio Rd Canyon-Lister Rd Canyon St Cavell St Cedar Hill Rd Cedar St Channel Rd Christenson Church Rd Clayton Rd Collis St Connel Rd Cook St Corn Creek Rd Cory Rd Crawford St Crestview Rd Crusher Rd Dale St Davis St Dean Rd Devon St Ditch Dogwood St Dow Rd Duck Creek Rd Duck Lake Rd Dugan St East Arrow Ck. Rd East Rd Elm St Elsie-Holmes Rd Erickson St Evans Rd Everett Rd

E4 D4 E4 D5 D3,5 D5 D5 D5 D5 D5 D5 D5 A2 F4 F4 A4,5 D3 D4 B4 C3 B4,5 B5 E2 A2 D4 B5 B4,5 A3 D-F5 B4,5;D3 A4 D1 B4,5 A2 E2 D4 C5 C3 D4 B4,5 D1 A3 B5 E4 C3 A5 B4 D4 A4 F2 B4,5 C3 A3 A2 B4 B5 A3 B4,5 A3 B5;D3 C1 B4

62 | Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Guide 2012

Foster Rd Foxtree Rd French Goat Canyon Rd Goat River Rd Goat River Rd S Granary Rd Hagey Rd Hanson Rd Haskins Rd Hawkview Dr Helen St Hillside St Hilton St Hobden Rd Hood Rd Hurl St Hurry Rd Huscroft Rd Ibbitson St Indian Rd J.R. Rd Jackson Rd Juniper St Knight Rd Kootenay Pl Kootenay River Rd Kootenay River Rd Lachat Rd Lakeview-Arrow Creek Rd Lamont Rd Leaning Tree Rd Lilac St Lister Rd Lloyd Rd Lougheed Lower Wynndel Rd Lyons Rd Mallory Rd Maple Pl Masuch Rd McKay Rd McLaren St McMurtrie Rd Mehrer Rd Mill Dr Millview Dr Monrose Rd Moore Rd Murdoch St Muzzy Rd Newdan Nicks Island Rd Northwest Blvd Old Logging Rd Olson Rd Osborne Rd Packing Shed Rd Parker Rd Payne Rd Peterman Rd Phillips Rd

B3 F4 E2 D4 C5 B4;D3 F2 F4 E2 C4 A4 C3 A4,5 C3 E5 C3 A5 B4 F5 A4 C2 F5 E5 A5 C4 A4 A3 D2 A3 B3 D4 F4 A4 E4,5 E5 C2 A3 F5 E4 B5 D4 D1 A5 C3 D5 A2 A2 A2 D4 A4,5 E5 C3 C2;D2 A4;C3 A2 A3 D4 A3 D5 C3 E2 E4

Pine St Pine St Pit Rd Plasko Rd Pogany Rd Porthill Rd Potato Pump Rd Purcell Crescent Purcell Rd Quinton Rd Railway Blvd Ramsier Rd Reclamation Rd Regina St Riley Rd Riverview Rd Robson Rd Rocky Point Rd Rogers Rd Rykerts Rd Samuelson Rd Scott St Selkirk Dr Settlement Rd Simmons Simon Rd Sinclair Rd Smith Rd Snider Rd Speers Rd Spruce Rd Stace Rd Sunset Blvd Sutcliffe Pt Swan Sylvester Rd Teetzel Rd Tooze Rd Uri Rd Vale Rd Valleyview Dr Vance Rd Vancouver St Wasyk Wellspring Rd Wellspring Rd Wenger Rd West Creston Rd West Creston Rd Westridge St Westview Rd Whimster Rd Wiebe Rd Wigen Rd Wild Life Williams Rd Wilson Rd Winlaw Rd Wynndel Rd Zapp Rd

B4 B5 F5 B3 F4 F4 E2 A3 A4 E5 F5 B4 D3 E2 A4 D4 E3 B3 C3 F5 F4 E5 A4,5 A4 E4 D2 D3 E4;F4 D2 F4 D3 D4 C3 B5 C3 F2 C4 C1 D4 B2 C5 A4 D5 A4 D1 F4 F4 C5 C1 D1,2 A4 A2 D5 B3 A2 C1 C3 B2 A3 A3 D5

THE CRESTON EXPERIENCE MEETS

THE RAMADA EXPERIENCE

May 2012

• 71 beautifully appointed rooms • deluxe continental breakfast included • conference room • leisure packages available Call 250 254 1111 or email ramadagm@trudex.ca for details and advanced bookings

OPENING ON SITE MAY 2012 famous for more than just breakfast

Junction of Highway 3 and Highway 3A

Tour times:

Mid-May to Mid-October: Mon. to Fri. 9:30 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 2:30 pm July and August: Mon. to Fri. 9:30 am to 3 pm— Tours run approx every ½ hour July and August: Sat. & Sun. 9:30 am, 1l am, 1 pm, 2:30 pm Open Statutory Holidays in July and August Closed-toed shoes must be worn on tour

For more info on our tours please call 250-428-9344

Kokanee Beer Gear Store:

Great Selection of Kokanee Clothing and Collectibles Open Monday to Friday 9 am – 4:30 pm year-round!

July & August: Monday to Sunday 9 am – 4:30 pm

1220 Erickson St, Creston, BC www.kokaneebeergear.com