2010/11 VM and area Winter Guide by The Valley Sentinel

Valemount & Area

free

S ' R O T I S I V W INTER G UIDE 2010/2011

Valemount This newly renovated hotel is located just 1 hour away from Jasper. After a day of snowmobiling you can relax in the indoor pool, waterslide and hot tub. Enjoy a jacuzzi in one of our king suites or stay for awhile in one of our kitchenette rooms. We look forward to welcoming you to our Ramada Valemount location soon.

• Hotel Features • Free Continental Breakfast • Free High Speed Internet • Gym/Fitness Center • Pets Allowed • Pool • Meeting & Event Facilities • Video Surveillance

Tel: 250-566-8222 • 1501 Swift Creek Road Valemount, BC • www.ramada.com/hotel/29153

Everytime is a Goodtime at the Gigglin’ Grizzly The Gigglin’ Grizzly pub serves up good food, good drinks & good times! Regulars & tourists join for fun & relaxation



Experience some local flavour

250-569-0101 600 First Avenue, McBride, BC

Jacuzzi Rooms • Rooms With Kitchenettes And Family Suites • In-House Restaurant • High Speed Internet Access • Free Continental Breakfast • Huge Parking Lot - Security Camera Surveillance

Welcome to the newly renovated Premier Mountain Lodge Located in the Monashee Range in the Rocky Mountains, we’re at the heart of the action here in Valemount. Just 1.5 hrs from Jasper and 20 minutes from Mt. Robson, we’re an outdoor enthusiasts dream!

Reservations please call...

250.566.4445

Toll Free:

1-888-830-7888

email: reservations@premiermountainlodge.com www.premiermountainlodge.com 1495 6th Avenue on Karas Drive • Valemount, BC

  

Open to serve Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

THE SARAK 

Family Restaurant

Snowmobiling Packages with the three meals, including a Lunch Box, Beer, Wine, Cocktails, & Lounge Daily Specials from around the world

W INTER V ISITOR'S G UIDE ea Valemount & Ar

2010/2011

Safety is Essential

Table of contents

Anyone operating in mountainous terrain is encouraged to take an avalanche course; come prepared with all the necessary equipment and know how to use it. Check the area’s conditions before heading out for your day’s ride at avalanche.ca and remember, “Ride to the conditions, not the opportunity.”

Mayor’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Snowmobile Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Westridge Family Loop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Keyhole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Allan Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Clemina Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11 Chappell Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Mount Robson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Cranberry Marsh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Valemount Area Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Backcountry Skiing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Cross-Country Skiing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 The YORA Backcountry Cabins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Dogsledding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 McBride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25 Blue River . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-27 Jasper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29

Important Numbers:

Backcountry Closure Info: Police / Fire / Ambulance: Local RCMP: CAA Avalanche Bulletin: Report a Poacher / Polluter: Yellowhead Helicopters:

1.888.655.8855 911 1.250.566.4466 1.800.667.1105 1.877.952.7277 1.250.566.4401

Village of Valemount: Headwaters Forest District: ABC Snowmobile Clubs: YORA Cabin Rentals: VARDA The Valley Sentinel

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Advertisers Index Ramada Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Gigglin Grizzly Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Premiere Mountain Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 3 The Sarak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Diamond H Donair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Swiss Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The Caribou Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Monashee Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 NV Mountain Chalets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Willow Burl Cabins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Tete Jaune Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 VARDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 The Great Escape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Twin Peaks Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

1.250.566.4435 1.250.587.6700 1.888.766.9612 1.250.566.8244 1.250.566.4817 1.250.566.4425

Chalet Continental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Canadian Mountain Holidays . . . . . . . . 20 Alpine Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Cold Fire Creek Dogsledding . . . . . . . . . 23 McBride Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Farm Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Blue River Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Husky Gas Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Jasper Source for Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Jasper Rock & Jade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Glacier Mountain Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 The North Country Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Best Western . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Valemount Travel Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Alpine Country Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Did you miss out advertising in this year’s Visitor’s Guide?

To pre-book for next year at 250.566.4425, or email ads@thevalleysentinel.com. Cover Photo Courtesy of: Tourism Valemount Inset Photos By : Reiner Thoni and Joshua Estabrooks Design By: Shawn Wernig Printed By: Central Web, Edmonton / Calgary Digital version available at: thevalleysentinel.com VisitValemount.ca SUPER, NATURAL BRITISH COLUMBIA and VISITOR CENTRE and all associated logos are registered trademarks of Tourism British Columbia.

Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s message Welcome to Valemount, where you are sure to find Mountains of Opportunity for the most exciting winter activities in our beautiful area. Valemount offers many kilometers of snowmobiling trails and an abundance of alpine riding areas developed by local groups and maintained by the Valemount Area Recreation Development Association. Outdoor enthusiasts will find here every opportunity for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, and backcountry skiing. You can even venture deep into the heart of the Canadian Rockies behind a team of enthusiastic and friendly sled dogs. You will marvel at the beauty of our snow capped timbers, frozen waterfalls, icy rivers and lakes and endless panoramic views of some of the most magnificent mountain landscapes you will find anywhere

Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 11pm Sunday 12 noon - 5pm Mondays Closed

Dine In or Take Out!

VisitValemount.ca in the world. If you time your visit just right, you will also be able to take part in a fun-filled, energetic outdoor winter experience at our annual Valemount Winter Festival. Whatever your winter pleasure, you will find it here: a snowmobile poker run, a winter triathlon, and family games at the marsh. You can even go ice fishing on one of our local lakes and then "chill" with your friends afterwards for dinner and a drink in one of our cozy restaurants. Valemount provides excellent services in spite of its small populationâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;we have more than 500 rooms in our many hotels and motels. So book your room, pack your gear, and Let the mountains move you to Valemount for some extraordinary winter adventures. Have a safe trip. Mayor Bob Smith

Open @ 4:30pm Daily 250-566-8244 1002 5th Avenue, Valemount, BC

Donairs - Burgers - Middle East Cuisine - Baklava

250-566-4453

Located in the Karas Mall, Valemount

Valemount

Swiss Bakery Ltd

Specialty breads - Pastries Birthday cakes - Daily/Weekly specials Coffee shop And more! Soup & Sandwiches available daily Come and meet Bogdan and Silvia 250-566-4035 1020 Main street, Valemount, BC Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Sledding in the valemount area

for the more hardcore adventure seekers. For more information please contact the office of the Valemount Area Recreation Development Association at: 250.566.4817, varda@valemount.ca or view valemountrecdevelopment.com

Photo by David Edwards

Valemount is known throughout North America as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best environments for mountain snowmobiling and wilderness backcountry adventure. Valemount boasts world-class alpine snowmobiling and offers challenges for the biggest and best snowmobiles and the most experienced riders. The areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s groomed trails also offer novice riders the same spectacular scenery and alpine riding experience. Winter in Valemount typically begins in mid-November and ends in April; spring riding, however, may continue into May and early June. December through March offers the best mountain conditions and almost always provides fresh deep-powder snow for everyone to enjoy. Valemount has four managed snowmobile areas, where trail passes are required, with groomed trails that access the incredible alpine snowmobiling terrain. It also boasts many other riding area opportunities

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Educate yours avalanchee.clfa, visit Snowmobile Gear and Par Alpine Coun ts try Renta Bumper to Bum ls: 1.250.566.9774 per: 1.250.566. 4140

Photo courtesy of Tourism Valemount

WESTRIDGE FAMILY LOOP

Photo by Ron Worobec

This area is great for socked in days or for a relaxed, casual and enjoyable ride. The area is accessed by turning right at the first intersection just south of town and following the road until you reach an open parking area along the right side of the road. There is a main family loop that will bring you back to the parking lot and will pass a little warming cabin roughly half way though the loops. Follow the FSR for approximately 13 km until you reach the hydro dam. From here, cross the bridge at the station and proceed right to pick up the

trail again that will take you through the trees and back to the valley bottom. There are many trails to explore in this area although it is rarely groomed. Westridge is ideal for beginner riding. There is intermittent cell phone service available on the trail. Westridge also holds some amazing alpine riding as well, but access is more for the intermediate rider. Please see our website at valemountrecdevelopment.com for more information. Cabin GPS Location: N52.822460 lat W119.34317 long

KEYHOLE 5,500-8,000 ft Elevation

A smaller area with skate park-like terrain, Keyhole is accessed from the Clemina parking area 30 km south of Valemount on the east side of Hwy 5. Please ask at the booth for directions from the parking area if you are unsure of

where to go. There is a 9 km long groomed trail leading up to the alpine from the Clemina parking area, although no cabin or outhouse facilities exist in the alpine area. Cell phone service is possible on the trail in.

• Please familiarize yourself with where you can and cannot snowmobile • Obey all signs • Failure to comply and cooperate can lead to fines, equipment seizures and ultimately the closure of areas to everyone • Remember - sled responsibly to keep areas open Don’t let unethical recreationalists ruin opportunities for the rest of us to enjoy. Channel your concern into the Observe, Record and Report program. Observe any suspicious activity. Record your observation on paper. Report the violation to the Conservation Officer Service at 1.800.663.9453 (WILD).

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Courtesy of Tourism Valemount

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Safety and Eti

ALLAN C REEK 5,500-7,500 ft Elevation

To access this area, drive to the large parking area accessed 35 km south of Valemount on the west side of Hwy 5. There is a 9-km long, regularly groomed trail with fast elevation gain. This is a VARDA managed trail, with an alpine cabin and outhouse facility. Some riding experience is required. The area has something for everyone, from mellow lake and meadow riding near the cabin to far off mountain exploration as well as climbs to challenge the most versatile athlete. Allan Creek is a Caribou sensitive area, so please follow area boundaries, encourage other riders to do the same and report any witnessed infractions to the drop box in the parking area.

quette A snowmobile is as safe as th e pe Safe operatio n includes know rson operating it. ledge of the m awareness of ac backcountry h azards, and co hine, courtesy. mmon • Leave a trip itinerary with someone and back upon yo report ur return • Travel in pai rs (the “budd y system”) an ride alone, es d never pecially into the backcoun • Respect oth try er user group s and help th when in need em • Remember that alcohol an d snowmobil don’t mix es • Please dem onstrate goo d manners by common sen using se and respec ting the intere others sts of

Photo by David Edwards

Cell service available at Mt Milton Cabin GPS location: N52.577228 lat W119.160908 long

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Courtesy of Tourism Valemount

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

“Pack It In - P

ack It Out” Garbage can m ar the quality of a recreation experience - pa rticularly wh en a mantle of w viewed again st hite snow. Any garbage left al trails or at any ong of our cabins is unnatural and annoying to ri ders backcountry m and winter recreationists. The otto remains th e same as in th summer. e

C LEMINA C REEK 5,500-8,000 ft Elevation

Photos courtesy of Tourism Valemount

A favourite of many visitors to the area, Clemina has something for everyone and is highly recommended to the first timer to Valemount. There is a large parking lot 30 km south of Valemount on the east side of Hwy 5. There is a beautiful 17-km trail to a sub-alpine cabin. Travelling another 4 km down the groomed trail will take you to the Goat Ridge Bowl alpine areas. This is a VARDA managed area with a regularly groomed trail, maintained cabin and outhouse facilities. Clemina is an excellent family area where beginners can travel to alpine terrain. Riders of all skill levels can find suitable play areas. This area does have a CRA Closure in the Dixon Glacier. Please respect and obey all posted signs and refrain from riding in the plantations.

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Courtesy of Tourism Valemount

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Remember to

6,000-8,000 ft Elevation

Photo by Ron Worobec

Valemount’s prize jewel, this area can boast some of the best snow levels in the Valley. There is a large parking area and trailhead 58 km south of Valemount on the west side of Hwy 5. This is also a VARDA managed area although there is no alpine cabin or outhouse. There is a scenic 26-km trail to the alpine with a fast elevation gain in the last 3 km. This is a long trail and we do our best to keep it maintained to standard, although due to high grooming costs the area only gets groomed once a week and can be a bit rough. Chappell Creek is a Caribou sensitive area, please follow area boundaries, encourage other riders to do the same, and report any witnessed infractions to the drop box in the parking area.

Photo by Curtis Pawliuk

C HAPPELL C REEK

ride pre

pared Carry all neces sary avalanch e equipment probe), flares (beacon, shov , water proof el, matches, win packs, salt, su d proof lighte gar, high ener r, h ot gy bars, rope, gloves and so wire, tape, ex cks, space bla tra nket, flint stri first aid kit, co kers, water, g mm ood Leatherman to unication (cell or sat phon e, SPOT), GPS, ol, saw, head lamp, spare b mirror, bag of atteri toilet paper, w histle, tea, pen es, signal tool kit, these cil and paper, are just a few items you may Remember, yo need. u are a LONG ways from hel wrong. p if somethin g goes

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

. 24 hr Towing . Auto Repair & Services . BCAA Authorized Road services . RV & Trailer Parts & Repair . Vehicle Inspection . Propane Sales

250-566-4318

1455 5th Avenue, Valemount, BC

Come and stay at the NV Mountain View Chalets Relaxation at its best.

Featuring: Full Kitchen • Living Room • Bedroom • Bathroom Sauna Room • Hot tub • Laundry Room

Daily Rates: Medium Cabins 1 person $70.00 • 2 person $80.00 each additional person $10.00 plus Hst

Duplex (smallest cabin) 1 person $60.00 • 2 person $70.00 each additional person $10.00 plus Hst

Large Cabin 7 person $270.00 plus Hst

Christmas and New Year Rates: Medium Cabins 1 person $100.00 2 person $110.00 each additional person $10.00 plus Hst

Large Cabins 7 person $300.00

• TETE JAUNE LODGE •

Duplex (smallest Cabin) 1 person $80.00

• Sledders Welcome •

each additional person $10.00 plus Hst

250-566-9815

250-569-0185 ∙ nv-mountainview.ca 5306 Hwy 16, East of McBride, BC

1 km West of Junction Hwy 5 & 16

www.tetejaunelodge.com

WILLOW BURL CABINS “Affordable, luxurious & Intimate lodgings in Quiet Natural settings with great mountain views.”

Sledders Special Starting at $ 55.00 Large Secure Parking Drying Room

www.willowburlcabins.ca 14

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Wireless Internet Satellite TV Hwy access - 8 minutes South of Valemount

Phone 250.566.4898

Cranberry Marsh Enjoy spectacular blue skies and crisp mountain air, surrounded by three breathtaking mountain ranges, while you ski on groomed trails across the frozen waters of Cranberry Marsh. “The Marsh,” as local residents know it, is a 600-acre wildlife sanctuary a few kilometres south of the Village. It is home to over 90 species of birds, as well as beavers, muskrats, moose, deer and bears; so make sure you have your camera ready, you just never know what you will encounter on a clear winter day. Strap on your cross-country skis, snowshoes or winter boots and explore this unique ecosystem. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery that varies from wide-open vistas and spectacular mountain views along the dykes to secluded pathways through black spruce and aspen forests.

WinterFest

Winter Triathlon

Snowmobile Poker Run

Cranberry Marsh is the perfect setting for our third annual Winter Festival. Get ready for a fun-filled, energetic outdoor winter experience at the annual Valemount Winter Festival! Whatever your winter pleasure, you will find it here. A snowmobile poker run in the lower elevations of the Cariboo Mountains, a winter triathlon that will test your stamina, a welcome-reception with live music, family games at the marsh, bonfires, and hot chocolate. For detailed information about all events, please go to VisitValemount.ca, e-mail marketing@visitvalemount.ca or call 250.566.3335.

Set a personal best, compete against a friend, or join up with two friends for the relay version of this race! You will feel the crisp, clean winter air on your face as you ski, skate and run through picturesque snow-covered landscapes. The start and finish line are located on the marsh. The long course is approximately 14 km and the short course is approximately 5 km.

Ride for a cause! Bring your family and friends and experience the thrill of riding in the beautiful mountain trails of the Lower Westridge area, while raising funds for the BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities. The trail is a low-elevation, clearly marked 30-km-loop where you will experience beautiful views of the Valley and the Village below. If the sky is clear you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Robson to the east, Canada’s tallest Rocky Mountain peak. Along the way, take a break and warm up with a complimentary hot chocolate at the warming cabin. The Poker run will start at the VARDA office and finish at the Visitor Information Centre where you will pick up your cards and hope for the best hands, pledges, rider categories and ghost riders.

Complete the day by enjoying hotdogs and beverages by the bonfire, while you share stories of your snowmobiling adventures.

YOUR SNOWMOBILING HEADQUARTERS For area information and updates in winter and summer, visit us at www.valemountrecdevelopment.com or phone us at 1-250-566-4817

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

SNOWMOBILE AREAS: • CLEMINA CREEK . . . . . 30 KM • ALLAN CREEK . . . . . . . 35 KM • CHAPPELL CREEK . . . . 56 KM • KEYHOLE . . . . . . . . . . 30 KM • WESTRIDGE . . . . . . SEE PG 7

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

488 KM 535 KM 535 KM 294 KM 323 KM 674 KM

Valemount Visitor's Map

DISTANCES:

EDMONTON, AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . CALGARY, AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RED DEER, AB, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PRINCE GEORGE, BC . . . . . . . . . KAMLOOPS, BC . . . . . . . . . . . . . VANCOUVER, BC . . . . . . . . . . . .

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

backcountry skiing

If so, maybe a trip into the backcountry to play in the deep, fresh powder of the Valemount area is just what you need. Up here there is a saying, “it’s okay to eat snow,” and if that expression brings a smile to your face, you’ve come to the right place. Imagine being able to make the very first tracks on a pristine slope of some of the best powder in the world, feeling the spray of snow as you glide down one of our famous glaciers. This is all possible in the Valemount area; you just have to decide how to get up there. There are a variety of guides and outfits that can help you get your snow fix. The options are simple, already set up, and waiting for you to make the call. For those with an adventurous spirit and a high level of athleticism, ski touring is a popular choice. One usually uses a snowmobile to access a ski touring area, but once there, it is all leg power that gets you up and down the vast, snow covered monoliths in the Rocky, Cariboo, or Monashee mountain ranges. Some avid skiers use their sleds, either owned or rented locally, as a portable chair lift, which is a type

Photo by Jorg Wilz Courtesy of Canadian Mountain Holidays

Is the hard packed snow and crowded lineups of your regular ski resort starting to lose its luster?

of backcountry skiing gaining in popularity. Your best bet is to seek out some professional advice before embarking on a ski touring trip, but if you are willing to put in the work, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the winter wonderland Valemount has to offer. If you want a little warmer and more comfortable trip up to the white stuff, maybe snowcat-skiing is more up your alley. Anyone can snowcat-ski as long as you are a strong to intermediate skier or snowboarder. The allure of snowcatskiing in Valemount is really growing, as more and more avid snow junkies are heading out to the mountains without wanting to pay the higher prices of a heli-skiing adventure.

Welcome to

Open 5:30 am Daily

THE GREAT ESCAPE Restaurant

Great Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner for Everyone to Enjoy! Tel; 250-566-4565 • 1460-5th Avenue, Valemount, BC

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Photo by Reiner Thoni

Photo by Topher Donahue Courtesy of Canadian Mountain Holidays

Chalet Continental

For those who have the budget, and a taste for an unforgettable backcountry adventure, there is a number of heli-ski outfits to choose from in the Valemount area. Valemount, Blue River, McBride and Crescent Spur (west of McBride) all have successful heli-ski operations, each offering their own unique areas and treatments for the snow savvy visitor. And if it’s your first time in the deep stuff, not to worry, you will have all the instruction you need, as each company employs some of the most experienced guides in the business. They know these mountains better than most, and will help you achieve all of your backcountry skiing dreams in style..

Spacious rooms with A/C In-Room Coffee & Tea Family Suites Full Size Kitchens High Speed Wireless Internet Sauna

Indoor Pool & Hot Tub Private Balconies Jacuzzi Tubs Remote Satellite TV Games Room Large Parking Lot

Twin Peaks Resort oﬀers unique activities all year round.

It is only 2.5 kilometres outside Valemount on Highway 5 in the Robson Valley with exquisite views 250-566-9160 60 Jack Adams, Valemount, BC www.twinpeaksresort.com

Ph: 250.566.9787 • FX: 250.566.9785 Toll Free: 1.877.566.7799 www.chaletcontinental.com 1450 5th Avenue, Valemount, BC

Great Enjoy ntain Mou

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Cross-country skiing

There are experienced guides available who would love to help you get the most out of your excursion, and even outfits that will fly you into Mount Robson Park, so all you have to do is make your way down the trail. Whatever your desire, there is world-class cross-country skiing and snowshoeing available in the Valemount area.

Photos by Art Carson

Tired of the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Want to get away for a peaceful and invigorating romp through the wilderness? There are many ways to enjoy the winter wonderland that surrounds Valemount. Strap on your skis or snowshoes and follow our regularly groomed areas or make your own tracks virtually anywhere your heart desires. The Valemount area offers top-notch cross-country skiing/snowshoeing terrain for any skill or endurance level. Take a leisurely glide across Cranberry Marsh, explore the groomed Jackman Flats and Camp Creek areas, or make your way deep into the heart of Mount Robson Park for a trip you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t soon forget.

World Class Skiing In Your Backyard

Canadian Mountain Holidays Valemount Lodge

Retail store open to public. Please call 250.566.4111 for hours

Valemount@cmhinc.com

250.566.4111

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Jackman Flats The trails start 13 km north of Valemount, on the west side of Highway 5. It is a beautiful area with views of both the Rockies and the Cariboo Mountains. Regularly groomed trails with varying degrees of difficultly offer something for everyone.

Photo by Charlotte Smith

Pine Tree Trail - 1.4 km - easy Lichen Loop - 2.3 km - easy Juniper Trail - 3.4 km - intermediate Big Dune Trail - 6.2 km - intermediate-advanced

Camp Creek

The Camp Creek cross-country trail system is 14 km south of Valemount, on the east side of Highway 5, 2.5 km up the Camp Creek Forestry Road. The area offers great snow and easy access for every level of skier. Ample parking is available at the trailhead, with a cook shelter, pit toilets and picnic tables. There is a warm up cabin located in the Camp Creek crosscountry ski area. It is equipped with a wood stove, firewood, and an axe. For further directions and information please contact YORA. Jack Rabbit Trail - 1.6 km - easy Fletcher’s Challenge Trail - 2.5 km - easy Upper Bench Trail - 5 km- intermediate - advanced

Cranberry Marsh Enjoy spectacular blue skies and crisp mountain air, surrounded by three breathtaking mountain ranges while you ski on groomed trails across the frozen waters of Cranberry Marsh. This area is perfect for the beginner skier, as well as those who enjoy a leisurely cross-country skiing experience on beautiful flat trails. How to get there: From Highway 5, follow 17th Avenue to Aspen Street, turn right on McKirdy Road, and look for Canoe View Park (big open area) on the right hand side. Access the trails from Canoe View Park—Trails are subject to weather conditions, and are only groomed if the weather cooperates. Always proceed with caution. Marsh Loop - Approx. 1.8 km - easy

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Photo by David Edwards

the YORA Backcountry cabinS

CLEMINA CABIN Clemina Cabin is in the northern part of the Monashee Mountains. Fantastic powder skiing on west facing runs. Photo by Patricia Thoni

Trailhead Elevation: 850 m (2,750 ft) Cabin Elevation: 1,440 m (4,800 ft) Top Mountain Elevation: 2,250 m (7,500 ft)

MCKIRDY CABIN

Snowshoe or ski into the backcountry and experience rustic mountain living in one of the cozy cabins built and maintained by YORA. The two cabins are available for year round use. Each cabin is equipped with bunks and foam mattresses to sleep 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;6 people. The cabins are also equipped with a wood heating stove, pots, pans, cutlery, axe, saw and a limited supply of wood. Nearby creeks and springs provide fresh water. Registrations for cabin use are required and are made through: Patricia at the Caribou Grill, Valemount, BC. Phone 250.566.8244. Registration fees go towards administrative and maintenance costs of the cabins. Questions or concerns may be directed to the YORA executive: YORA, Box 886, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0.

Photo by Reiner Thoni

McKirdy Cabin is in the Selwyn Range. It is a beautiful excursion area. However the few westfacing runs are short. The lower part is hard to ski due Photo by Art Carson to heavily treed slopes. Trailhead Elevation: TV Towers (car access) 910 m (2,985 ft) Seven Mile (snowmobile access): 1,503 m (4,391 ft) Cabin Elevation: 1,990 m (6,528 ft) Top Mountain Elevation: 2,095 m (6,873 ft)

In the 1980s, the Yellow Outdoor Recreation Association (YORA) was formed. This volunteer group maintains backcountry cabins and trails and grooms the crosscountry ski trails.

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Looking for a winter advenunique ture? Experience

Dogsledding

the th dogsledding in rill of the Rocky Mountains!

Doglsedding is one of Canada’s oldest official sports. For thousands of years, the dog has been an integral part of First Nations’ life. Trappers and prospectors also used dogsleds as a means to explore the vast mountain wilderness of BC. And while in some parts of the world mushing is still a necessity, here in Valemount dogsledding is a fun sport rapidly gaining in popularity. Learn about this ancient mode of transportation as you venture deep into the heart of the Canadian Rockies with friendly huskies and knowledgeable guides. Experience the silent, undisturbed beauty of winter; enjoy the crisp mountain air and the stunning scenery that surrounds you as you blaze along winding forest trails surrounded by massive, snow-laden timbers and frozen waterfalls. Let your team of dogs take you along the icy waters of Small River, until it all opens up to a wide, pristine valley with breathtaking panoramic views of open snowy meadows and endless mountain peaks. And your adventure doesn’t end there, depending on how long of an excursion you decide to embark on, as you may be invited to warm your hands over a crackling fire and share your tales of adventure over a hot drink and

some tasty treats, or even a full fledged campfire lunch. The trail takes you up and down approximately 1000 vertical feet of elevation along a 100-year-old trap line. Tours vary from one hour to four hours. Where else but Valemount can you take a step back in time and command your own dog team through the winter wonderland of this wonderful Valley.

Cold Fire Creek Dogsledding T

ravel through one of Canada’s pristine mountain valleys past an everchanging freezing river, snow covered timbers, and frozen waterfalls, aboard one of history’s oldest forms of winter transportation. 120 kilometres west of Jasper, past Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. 2-3 person sleds are pulled by 6-8 Alaskan Huskies. Tours range from 1 hour - 1/2 day excursions. Most programs include a trail side campfire lunch. Guests have the opportunity to drive their own sleigh or simply ride and enjoy the scenery.

Toll Free: 1-877-295-8505 or 250-968-6808 www.cfcdogsledding.com e: cfcdogsledding@yahoo.com

Serving the Robson Valley Since 1998

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

McBride

If you like the outdoors, you’ll love the McBride area. Situated on Highway 16, midway between Prince George and Jasper, the scenery is magnificent. It is also a regular stop on the passenger rail line. Camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding in summer, and ski touring, heli-skiing and snowmobiling in winter, attract visitors year round. The area offers a full range of accommodations, eateries and services. Just outside the village are beautiful Koeneman Regional Park, with its original log house, and Horseshoe Lake Bird Sanctuary, a stopping place for swans, Canada Geese, ducks and many others. Changing history and art displays are on view year round in McBride. With a walk down Main Street to the heritage railway station, visitors will enjoy McBride’s pride in developing a railway theme to reflect the community’s importance in the Grand Trunk Railway history.

McBride Hotel We are located in the beautiful Robson Valley surrounded by the Cariboo & Rocky Mountain Ranges. All rooms were recently renovated Pets allowed

250-569-2277

100 - 1st Avenue, Hwy 16, McBride, BC

Photo By Matthew Wheeler Courtesy of McBride Visitor Centre

McBride and Area AND MORE FOR TWO

The last spike Construction of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway began here in 1911, and by 1914 it linked eastern Canada through the Yellowhead Pass to the Pacific Ocean. It created many communities along the railway including Dunster and McBride. McBride village was called Mile 90 until 1913, when it was named after the then Premier of B.C., Sir Richard McBride. The picturesque railway station, recently renovated, now houses a gallery featuring the works of many local artists, craftspeople, filmmakers and writers. It also contains a bistro/internet cafe and the McBride Visitor Centre, where you can find out more about the valley and its attractions.

FARM STORE E H T FEED

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Store Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday 10:30 am - 5:30 pm

250-569-0425 • 1032 2nd Avenue, McBride, BC 24

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

MCbride Within McBride Village there are four motels, a hotel, and cabins, and outside town there are campgrounds, RV parks, several B&Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and a lodge. Visit mcbride.ca for all of your accommodation needs. Koeneman Regional Park On the outskirts of McBride, this 4.5 hectare park provides a pastoral picture on the north shore of the Fraser River. A notable feature is the dovetail cornered log house built by Fred Koeneman. Facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, dry toilets and a large open field.

In and around town In McBride, explore the shops, visit the Library/Museum, and attend a concert at the Roundhouse Theatre (September to June); enjoy activities at the Recreation Centre and various local events. There are a variety of restaurants, featuring home cooking and a warm, friendly atmosphere as well as grocery stores and coffee shops for all of your dining needs. If your car or sled needs attention, we have a number of auto repair shops and two specialty sled shops as well as a hardware store and various retail outlets. If you need it, we can get it for you. The Visitor Centre is a great first stop for all of your information needs. Transportation and places to stay If you like train travel and have never tried it, the railway passes through many communities not seen from the highway, and allows spectacular views of the mountains and the Fraser River. The train can drop you off or pick you up at remote stops if prearranged. Daily bus service travels the Yellowhead Highway 16. Both services stop in McBride and, by request, at other points. There is also a 2700 ft (830 m) airstrip in town. Many accommodation and tourism operators will provide transport to train or bus.

The Koeneman Family Fred Koeneman came to McBride in 1923 and took up a homestead west of town. He worked mainly for logging outfits, mainly doing river drives, cutting wood and loading cedar poles. He also had traplines. Fred married Elizabeth in 1932. When their children reached school age, the Koenemans moved closer to McBride and built their home in 1938/39 near the Fraser River. In the forties, Fred worked for the Public Works Department and BC Forest Service as a watchman at the McBride Peak fire lookout north of the village. Fred built the log half-way cabin still located beside the winding road up the mountain. After Fred Koeneman passed away in 1979, the Regional District acquired the park land in 1981. Outdoor activities Surrounded by the Rocky and Cariboo Mountains, the McBride area provides many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons. Views overlooking the valley begin only a few minutes from town if you head up McBride Peak on foot or wheels (4WD recommended). A few hoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; walk into the alpine can take you to the peak (alt. 7446 feet), just 5 km from the village as the crow flies! Hiking or trail riding can be a day excursion or a camping trip. Canoeing or rafting on the Fraser River, mountain biking or driving up some of the side valleys are great ways to see the scenery and wildlife. During spawning season, salmon are easily spotted jumping at the Holmes (Beaver) River falls, a 10-minute walk from the highway. Winter provides award winning groomed snowmobile trails, cross-country ski trails and spectacular places for self-guided snowshoeing and telemarking, just a few minutes from McBride. Renshaw, Bell and Lucille Mountains are favoured destinations for sledders of all ages and abilities. Guided hiking, rafting, ATV, heli-hiking, heli-skiing and snowmobile tours operate in the valley. Stop by the Visitor Centre in the heritage train station on 1st Avenue, open daily, for your free copy of our Outdoor Recreation Guide.

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Photo by Bill Karas

blue river

Husky Gas Station Open 24 hours 778 off highway 5 BLUE RIVER Ph: 250.673.8221 Email: hko570@popmail.huskyenergy.ca

Now Offering Ethanol Free Premium Gas Restaurant Hours 6am-9pm open till 10pm in the Summer Licensed Restaurant 26

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Winter means POWDER and it’s deep in Blue River, B.C. – Canada! Take advantage of the amazing snow in Blue River, BC. The warmth of this mountainside village is so engaging that you are sure to return year after year. The adventure crowd can experience everything from backcountry skiing and snowmobiling, to world class heli-skiing. Prefer the

Blue River m ar ke t Groceries... Liquor Agency • Produce Baking • Meat And More... Cedar Street, Blue River (250) 673-8227

Photo by George Brcko

blue river

Photo by Joshua Estabrooks

more laid back experience; try out our local cross-country ski trails or outdoor skating arena. Accommodations range from B&B’s to motels to resort options. Experience the thrill of unmarked powder in a pristine wilderness with world famous Mike Wiegele Heli-Ski Resort’s expert guides, friendly staff and supreme service are truly unsurpassed. Let Blue Jewel Snowmobile Tours guide you through the powder with their certified professional mountain guides in the lead! Always entertaining! Don’t have your own sled or equipment–they have it all ready to rent, very reasonably priced. Snowy Mountain Alpine Tours offers guided and catered single-day and multi-day ski touring, ski mountaineering, avalanche safety training and mountain skills courses in the Cariboo Mountains of Blue River. Snowy Mountain is the only adventure tourism operator that employs Association of Canadian Mountain Guides certified guides. Our terrain provides everything you have imagined about deep Canadian powder skiing. With three huts to choose from and over 100 square kilometers of big mountain terrain we can guide you into backcountry skiing Nirvana. With snowcat access, warm and cozy accommodations, terrain for all abilities and conditions you must join us! It’s picture postcard perfect and feels like Christmas all winter long as you enjoy a meal or inventive ‘cocoa’ after a great day of winter sport at one of the cozy venues in our village. Please join us for an adventure to remember.

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

Jasper

Old Man Mountain (La Roche Bonhomme) – 2,459 m

Pyramid Mountain – 2,762 m

To Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake

Activities

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Lake Edith

Pyramid Lake Road

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PUBLIC WORKS

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Old Fort Point The 2010 Jasper Visitor Map is a production of Jasper Maps. A division of Jasper Courier. Box 1870, Jasper Alberta 1-780-852-8888. Reproduction by any means is prohibited except with the written permission of Jasper Maps.

Let us put you on the Map! Other services include: Brochures & Online Solutions

Promoting Jasper National Park www.ExperienceMountainParks.ca Publishing the Jasper Visitor Map JasperCourier@hotmail.com

To order maps contact Janice: 780-852-8888

Publishing services provided by Experience the Mountain Parks

Ski & Snowboard Rentals We know our stuff

780-852-3654 www.jaspersports.com 406 Patricia Street Jasper, Alberta

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

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Hiking Boating Horseback Riding Playground Tennis Court Ball Diamond/Soccer Skateboard Park Bike Rentals Discovery Trail

Hospital Community Outreach Provincial Building Municipality Grocery Store Public Restroom Car Wash Dog Park Dump Station Recycle Depots

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Services Parks Information Post Office Fire Hall School Church Museum Library Parking Bus/Train Station Shuttle Meeting Police Station

To Miette Hot Springs Resort

Pyramid Lake

LEGEND

% OFF

Daily Rentals

Jasper

Jasper: Altitude, not Attitude. Jasper: Altitude, not Attitude. In a region renowned for breathtaking mountain terrain and world-class alpine skiing, Marmot Basin ski area in Jasper National Park is a special place - 3,000 vertical feet of superb skiing and snowboarding spread over 1,675 glorious acres only 20-minutes from the town of Jasper. Variety is also a big draw at Marmot Basin. Warm up each day on long, gentle, winding novice runs, then switch to steep, high alpine bowls and chutes in the afternoon, along with some glade skiing through verdant pine forests. The ski and snowboard runs are split evenly between easy, intermediate and advanced, making this an ideal destination for all ability levels. skimarmot.com. For those looking for a little rejuvenation and relaxation from Jasper’s active winter outdoor pursuits like Maligne Canyon Ice Walks, wildlife discovery tours, snow shoeing, and skating (to name a few), head to the destination’s newest luxury spa: The Spa at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. This ten-thousand-square-foot facility features ten treatment rooms, two couples rooms, rain showers, hydrotherapy baths and a revitalizing list of spa experiences. fairmont.com/jasper. Don’t miss the 22nd Annual Jasper in January Festival! Two fun-filled weeks from January 14-30, 2011 will feature special pricing on accommodation, as well as special prices up at Marmot Basin starting January 15th. Each day will be brimming with exciting events for families, couples, and the young and old at heart, from the Family Street Party, to events up at Marmot Basin, moonlight skates, live bands, chili cook offs, dogsledding demos, cabanes à sucre, art and wine nights, a Hops and Scotch night, a chance to see the famous Jasper wolves, Alpha & Omega on the big

screen, and everything else in between. For a complete event listing visit Jasper.travel. This winter, Jasper also plans to put a little fun in our history, as it celebrates David Thompson’s Bicentennial. 200 years ago, David Thompson, fur trader and explorer, came through the Jasper area in search of a route to the Pacific Ocean. His chosen route became the Trans Canada highway for the next 50 years. To celebrate the significance of David Thompson to the Jasper region, there will be a series of events throughout 2011 that will mark the Bicentennial. Kick off events will begin on January 15th, where visitors will have a chance to see and experience voyageur and explorer experiences from 200 years ago, like dogsledding, snowshoeing, and Aboriginal activities, ending with an adult-only event called the Fur Ball, an evening experience featuring traditional foods and entertainment of the fur trade era. For more information on the 2011 Bicentennial events planned in Jasper National Park visit Jasper.travel.

Unique Gifts and Homemade Gourmet Fudge 780-852-3631 www.jasperrockandjade.com 620A Connaught Drive, Jasper, Alberta

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

www.glaciermountainlodge.com Family owned & operated • Eco Friendly

Glacier Mountain Lodge is a European-style mountain lodge nestled in the valley between the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, bordering Wells Gray Provincial Park in Blue River, British Columbia, Canada. Special stay packages for snowmobile vacations are available Special discounts for online reservations Corporate Rates are available

A European Boutique style lodge nestled in the valley between the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains.

Toll Free 1.877.452.2686 Phone 250.673.2393 Fax: 250.673.8225 info@glaciermountainlodge.com Yellowhead Hwy #5, Blue River

The North Country Lodge and Restaurant North Country Lodge in McBride, British Columbia, is the largest and most complete facility on the Yellowhead Highway (Hwy #16 west) between Jasper, Alberta and Prince George, British Columbia. Whether passing through or spending the night visit The Lodge Restaurant. Sun - Thur 6am - 10pm • Fri - Sat 6am - 11pm

45 minutes east is the majestic Mount Robson, highes t mountain in the Canadian Rockies.

250-569-0001 • 1.888.695.932 2 McBride is a winter haven for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Come to McBride and try snowmobiling at its BEST!

Located on the Yellowhead Hwy #16 in the heart of the Robson Valley between the Rockies and the Cariboo Mountains, 1 hour and 45 min west of Jasper and 2 hours east of Prince George.

868 Frontage Road, McBride • www.northcountrylodge.ca 30

Valemount and Area Winter Guide, 2010

The Best Western Plus Valemount Inn & Suites located in Valemount, British Columbia will make your stay feel just like home “but better”

Valemount Inn & Suites

Complimentary Public Computer Internet Access Secured Parking Video Surveillance Cameras Exercise Room Guest Laundry ATM Machine Accessible Facilities Ample Parking for Busses and Trailers Winter Plug Ins Select Rooms with Private Balconies Conference Rooms ( Suitable for Weddings, Meetings, Reunions & Retreats...) In-house Restaurant Cranberry Lounge Indoor Pool with Waterslide & Hot Tub The Best Western Plus is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Rocky Mountain Adventures in the great 24 hr Nestings gift shop outdoors await you, whether you prefer snowmobiling, 24 hr Front Desk cross-country skiing and/or heli-skiing for the winter. 100% Non Smoking

Pets Welcome: $20.00 fee per stay Our friendly staff awaits to assist you 250.566.0086 • 1.888.777.1120

www.bestwesternvalemount.com

Valemount Travel Centre 1495 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5th Avenue, Box 39, V0E 2Z0 Owners / Operators: Jason & Ellen Van der Wilk

250-566-4104 Open 7 Days a Week

250-566-4151 Open 24 hours

Alpine Country Rentals 250 566 9774 www.alpinecountryrentals.com