February 26, 2014

I Y K S TA

S RS E &SMITH

IN

WELCOME!

Winter fun awaits you in

SMITHER S

www.skiandstay.ca

E E H N T N TH I JO R O IN O NTA Y MAMOU

Taylor, Maddie, Michelle, Ella I grew up cross-country skiing around the fields near our home. Sometimes there was a track, other times we made our own. Going down hills was always the best part.

Then, when I was 10 or so, I discovered there is a kind of skiing where you only go downhill. How could they have kept this from me?

Now my own kids are nine and six and our dining room window in Smithers looks out at the ski runs arcing their way down the flank of Hudson Bay Mountain. Skiing is a big part of why we live here.

On Saturdays we cram kids and ski gear into our little hatchback and head up the mountain to play in the snow.

Skiing in Smithers is all about community. There's no scene to speak of and nobody cares what you're wearing. Lineups are rare, and if the line isn't moving it's probably because someone has struck up a conversation and forgotten to shuffle forward.

Five years ago, my wife and I scraped together and put a down payment on a little shack in the "cabin colony," a cluster of on-hill cabins dating back to the ‘60s. It’s rustic: single pane windows, an outhouse, “walking” water. Today, the hill's developer is selling lots where you can enjoy services like water and sewer.

On Sunday mornings I wake up early and light a fire. It's still dark and we can see the lights from the groomer working the Cabin Runs or Rayz Terrain Park.

Around eight-thirty the sun breaks over the horizon.

We cajole the kids into their ski gear -- they're always reluctant until they're skiing. Then we're off!

Once our kids learned the hill, they were soon calling the shots when it came to run selection. Despite our protests, this came to mean one thing: The Gully.

For the uninitiated, the Gully is the kind of run kids love and adults tolerate. In the summer it's a creek gully but in winter it’s transformed into the love child of a pinball machine and a laundry chute.

Skiing with kids comes with its unique joys. Watching them get a feel for speed, arms out for balance then catch an edge and rag-doll, skis and poles flying all directions. I rush to the scene, but the snow is soft and the kid's all smiles. "I got snow in my ears!" she exclaims.

We converge at the bottom of the chair. From the south come the parents, kids and beginners, having just skied Footloose, Twinkle Toes and the like. From the north come those sliding in from the steeper, deeper terrain east of the chair: runs such as Dahlie's and Cold Smoke.

A few hours later it's time to hit the lodge. Kids are hungry and after so many laps of the Gully, I've convinced myself I deserve a beer. I have to work in the morning but it couldn't feel more distant. Maybe I'll ski to town? The five-kilometre run the Rotary Club cut to the valley bottom is a nice way to cap off the weekend.

It feels wonderful to think that our girls are going to grow up skiing Hudson Bay Mountain overlooking such a great community. This is truly a beautiful life.

Come join us sometime?

- Taylor Bachrach is the Mayor of Smithers

www.skiandstay.ca

You’re in for a Treat!

Pristine powder, no crowds, awesome events, bluebird skies and piles of vertical. Hudson Bay Mountain brings you a snow experience that you won’t quickly forget. Set high above the red brick sidewalks and boutique shops of Main Street

ski in ski out alpine home sites

Smithers, Hudson Bay Mountain provides you with the perfect backdrop for powder days and great nights. Accommodations on or off the mountain give you access to one-of-a-kind restaurants and specialty shopping. Mountain access is easy (use our Dawn 2 Dusk Mountain Bus or drive the scenic 20-kilometre road on your own).

www.hudsonbaymountainestates.com

Smithers and Hudson Bay Mountain extend to you the heartiest of invitations in the hopes that you’ll come back time and time again.

1-866-665-4299 www.HudsonBayMountain.com SKSM 1403d (Ski & Stay Int News ad).indd 1

www.skiandstay.ca

31-01-14 9:29

www. h udsonbaylodge. c om Green Package $169/pp •

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Blue Package $215/pp •

in a queen suite

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Black Diamond Package $369/pp •

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two nights accommodation in our spirit of the north jacuzzi suite

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four adult lift tickets

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cheese platter & bottle of wine

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late check out

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breakfast each morning

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breakfast & dinner each day

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all packages based on double occupancy, taxes not included

Reservations@hudsonbaylodge. c om » 1 .800.663.5040

Modern Grill & Lounge

www.skiandstay.ca

MO

UN TA PA IN RA DI SE

With a population of about 6,000 and nestled between the iconic Hudson Bay Mountain to the west and the Babine mountain range to the east, Smithers is truly a mountain town. The community is located within the traditional territory of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation and is intersected by the Bulkley River, long regarded as one of the world’s premier steelhead fishing destinations. While it’s easy to feel like you are surrounded by stunning wilderness in Smithers (because you are), Smithers is easily accessible and offers all of the amenities desired by a discerning visitor.

Smithers is easily reached by road, along Yellowhead

Highway 16, however if you prefer to travel as a passenger Greyhound Bus Lines and VIA Rail provide regular service to Smithers. If flying is more your style, the Smithers Regional Airport is only 5 minutes from downtown Smithers and just 30 minutes from the ski lifts! Daily air service is provided by Hawkair and Air Canada. Car and truck rentals and taxi service are available.

The Smithers Visitor Centre is open 12 months a year and can answer all of your questions on accommodation, dining, and things to do. It is located in Central Park, at 1411 Court Street. 1-888-542-6673. Local 250-847-5072 or info@tourismsmithers.com.

Your Way Up • Daily direct flights to Vancouver, Kelowna, Prince George and others • Regular scheduled flights to BC’s mineral resource region along Highway 37, including Dease Lake and Bob Quinn • 7,500 ft of paved runway

• New LPV approaches for lower landing limits • Airport land available for lease and for sale • Multiple airport-based helicopter and fixed wing charter operations

www.smithers.ca/airport TOSA 1400d (Ski & Stay ad).indd 1

www.skiandstay.ca

27-01-14 1:43 PM

We invite you to stay with us.

“

Alpine themed rooms with duvets · Hot tub & sauna · Smithers’ only accommodation with an indoor pool · WiFi · Kitchens & family rooms · Airport Shuttle

With Smithers having such a humble atmosphere, it made me want to move back a few years ago. As someone who has travelled around a bit and was lucky enough to have a chance to snowboard all over, I’ve come to realize the mountain I learned on has everything I need to keep enjoying what I love most.

The fact that the chair lift has more advanced levels of riding and a number of runs to choose from is one of those reasons. Who can say they have an amazing view of white capped mountains in their backyard? I am grateful I am able to utilize this more regularly then before.

-Patricia Barnaby, Staff Member

www.AspenInnSmithers.com

”

Highway 16, Smithers | 250.847.4672

There’s Always Something Going on at the Riverhouse.

Come for licensed family dining & enjoy good company in the ambience of the Riverhouse Restaurant & Lounge.

www.skiandstay.ca

SKATING Indoor or out, Smithers offers many options for the skating enthusiast. With a full service rink and a new one on the way, you can enjoy endless hockey games or public skate times.

FA COO L MI LY FU

Smithers also has outdoor skating options. There is a public rink open to all, located beside the Bulkley Valley Museum and the fire hall. As well, there are many lakes around Smithers, offering picturesque skating opportunities. You might get invited to join a pick-up game of hockey on a Sunday afternoon.

SNOW SHOEING As the powder piles up on the hills and mountain, the snowshoes that many used (and some still use) for work in the past are now donned for pleasure. Instead of sinking in the fluffy stuff - you can ride high and easy.

Snowshoes come in a variety of sizes and shapes and modern day materials now make tramping on snow this way a lot of fun. Check with local outdoor shops for rentals and head out for some winter adventure.

Smithers offers a multitude of snow shoeing trails, for all levels and ages, within a 30-minute drive from town.

ICE FISHING Fishing enthusiasts aren’t limited to warmer days in Smithers. Many of the local lakes are ice fishing ‘hot-spots’ in the winter. You can fish for Rainbow, Brook, Cuthroat, Lake trout and Char.

www.skiandstay.ca

N

R D E NT AN I W E RL D N WO

HUDSON BAY MTN

SKEENA CAT SKIING

As you enter Smithers, you can’t miss the long, sweeping ski runs towering over the town. Hudson Bay Mountain Resort offers big adventure, with a small-town feel.

Skeena Cat Skiing is Northern B.C.’s only cat ski destination. Whether you’re an intermediate or advanced skier, Skeena has diverse terrain for everyone.

Uncrowded runs, dry and plentiful powder, a wide variety of terrain and friendly staff await you.

Book a package with the Suskwa Lodge, nestled in the Blunt Range.The lodge has 5 double occupancy bedrooms, each with an ensuite. The common room features a stone hearth, pool table, piano, guitars and ample room for relaxing.

Just a 20-km drive from Smithers, you can get more runs in with less travel time.

Or jump on the Dawn 2 Dusk Mountain Bus in town at a number of pick-up locations and at the end of the day, take the 4 km run all the way into town.

With modern gear rentals, group or private lessons, 2 lodges, on and off the mountain accommodations and the best snow in B.C., Hudson Bay Mountain is the perfect winter destination. Visit www.hudsonbaymountain.com

After cat skiing all day, guests can spoil themselves with a professional massage and a relaxing soak in the hot tub.

Skeena is proud to offer cat skiing to locals. They believe that northern B.C. residents should be able to enjoy their own backyard, so packages vary from day skiing to all-inclusive multi-day trips.

Visit www.skeenacatskiing.ca

www.skiandstay.ca

CROSS-COUNTRY The BV Nordic Centre is renowned for excellent snow conditions and a lengthy ski season, due to the elevation and being situated in a snowbelt area between B.C.’s cold interior and damp coastal climates.

The BV Nordic Centre maintains 45 kilometres of cross country ski trails, groomed for both classic and skating.

Every trail is groomed for both classic and skate skiing and maintained regularly with state-of-the art grooming equipment. The trails are well-marked and range from fairly flat with a few gentle slopes, to challenging routes with steep climbs and hairpin turns.

Or come night skiing on 5.5 kilometres of lit track.The lights are on until 9:30 pm daily. Visit www.bvnordic.ca.

HARVEY MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES Prepare for a wilderness adventure that offers quality experience, unspoiled terrain and close hand wildlife exposure.

Harvey Mountain Adventures is a yearround backcountry tour operator, located in Northern British Columbia’s vast mountainous terrain. Offering a variety of options that will suit any desire for a motorized backcountry adventure.

Whether you’re looking for a small group event or a full fledged overnight camping experience, Harvey Mountain Adventures will make your winter snowmobile adventure a thrilling, safe and unparalleled experience. Visit www.smitherssnowmobiletours.com.

HANKIN-EVELYN BURNIE GLACIER After a day of backcountry ski mountaineering, pushing peaks and carving big turns through massive slopes of untouched powder, you will find yourself lounging around the beautiful dining table while wood crackles in the cookstove and a dinner simmers on top. Get ready to indulge in a gourmet meal or kick back with a cold beer in the cedar sauna at Burnie Glacier Chalet.

Burnie Glacier Chalet is a backcountry lodge that offers all the charm of a European mountain hut, but instead of sharing it with dozens of others, you and your friends can enjoy the best backcountry ski mountaineering, climbing, or hiking Canada has to offer – all to yourselves! The operating area is legally designated as “non-motorized” and the best part: it’s easy to access; arrive in Smithers and ski the same day!

Visit www.bearmountaineering.ca.

The Hankin-Evelyn Backcountry Recreation area is a new approach to backcountry skiing in the Bulkley Valley.

This recreation area creates significant new below-tree-line skiing and ensures access roads that are maintained throughout the winter. It’s all about supporting the backcountry ski community by opening up a wealth of non-motorized ski touring terrain for all abilities.

Spanning low elevation snow shoeing and cross-country loops, beginner, intermediate and expert tree runs, or high alpine bowls — Hankin-Evelyn offers something for everyone.

The Hankin Backcountry Ski Area features low-elevation snowshoe and cross-country loops, nine below-tree-line runs, an overnight cabin (Hankin Lookout) and a day-use warming shelter.

Explore the beauty of northern B.C.’s backcountry that is easy to access and has the amenities that make your trip memorable. Visit www.hankinmtn.com.

Photo: Skeena Cat Skiing

www.skiandstay.ca

R A GE RAL T N CE

It only makes sense that Smithers has some of the best outdoor equipment providers in the province, too. Here, visitors are treated to small-town service and an intimate knowledge of the landscape around us provided by the people who grew up here.

Growing up in Smithers, Jason Krauskopf has always loved to play in the outdoors and Smithers is the perfect playground. For nearly 20 years Rayz Boardshop has provided the Bulkley Valley with the products necessary to enjoy the outdoors all year long. They carry a huge selection of skis and snowboards for those who want to play on the ski hill or in the backcountry.

They have you covered head to toe, with a variety of helmets, goggles, boots, and outerwear. They also provide tech services for minor repairs and waxing to keep you riding throughout the season.

“It’s amazing, getting out and enjoying the playground that we get to call home,” says Rayz owner Jason.

Go to www.rayzboardshop.com. Rayz is open Mon. to Sat. 9 am to 6 pm Call 250.847.5388.

Dawn 2 Dusk, located on First Ave., is the first 100% solar-powered outdoor gear store in North America.

Owners Damian Kern and Dave Harris live here, too, and they want to be able to continue to enjoy the pristine wilderness and show that one person can make a difference. From kiteboarding, skiing and snowboarding to backpacks and tents, Dawn 2 Dusk has a hearty selection to satis-

fy any level of outdoor enthusiast. Call 250.847.4451 or see www.dawn2dusk.net for more. Hours are Mon. to Fri. 8:30 am to 6 pm & Sat 9:30 am to 6 pm The name says it all.Winterland. It’s aptly named because you can find everything you need all in one location.

Winterland offers a full range of equipment rentals — downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboards and snowshoes. Season-long rentals are also available.

Need more speed? Winterland’s Repair Shop will give your equipment the tune-up it needs. You can browse the selection of clothing and footwear while you wait.

Check out www.winterlandski.com or call 250.847.9333.

Open Mon. to Fri., 9 am to 6 pm, Sat. & Sun. 8 am to 6 pm.

Valhalla Pure Outfitters (VPO) is located on Smithers’ vibrant Main Street. Local owner Dave Walter skis, stand up paddleboards, climbs and recreates in Smithers. He is proud to offer incredible customer service combined with prices found at other Valhalla Pure Outfitters in larger city centres. Their everyday low prices match or beat competitors such as MEC. Whether you’re in the market for new skis, snowshoes, a stand up paddle board, winter jacket or base layer, they have it all. They’re adventure enthusiasts just like you, and they are dedicated to helping you make the most of your time outdoors!

Go to www.valhallasmithers.com. Valhalla Pure Outfitters is open Mon. to Sat. 9:30 am to 6 pm. Call (250) 847-0200.

www.skiandstay.ca

Friendly small town service at Big City pricing guaranteed

North America’s Only fully solar powered

SHRED SHOP Largest selection

of independent Skis & Snowboards in BC

www.valhallasmithers.com 1122 Main St, Smithers · 250-847-0200

www.Dawn2Dusk.net · 3860 1st Ave, Smithers

We have everything winter-for all ages.

3711 Alfred, Smithers 250-847-9333 www.winterlandski.com www.skiandstay.ca

’S T A H W RE? HE

All you have to do is take a walk down Smithers’ Main Street to get a feel for our alpine lifestyle.

Smithers is fun, funky, relaxed and cool.

There are great coffee shops, restaurants and bakeries. We’ve got some of the best sports shops in Northern B.C. and hip boutiques carrying the latest styles.

In Smithers, your down time can be spent enjoying one of the numerous amenities the town has to offer. Why not start off with a visit to the Bulkley Valley Museum and the Smithers Art Gallery. They are both housed in the same building — built in 1925 and originally home to the court house and jail.

Visit www.bvmuseum.com.

The museum has a fascinating permanent collection as well as featured exhibits year-round.The art gallery showcases various exhibitions throughout the year.

For a great family activity, check out Smithers Bowl, which features six lanes of five-pin bowling. Call 250.847.9840 or visit www.smithersbowl.ca for more information.

Tough day? Come and relax in the hot tub or the sauna at the Bulkley Valley Regional Pool after an exhilarating day up on the slopes. They also have a fully-equipped fitness centre, climbing wall and squash court if you’re up for it. For hours and rates, go to bvpool.com.

The Roi Theatre has three screens and plays the best of what Hollywood has to offer. Twice per month until April, the Roi is also home to the Smithers Film Society’s Film Series. Call 250.847.2440 for more information.

Smithers is also home to a vibrant performing arts community. Venues like the Della Herman Theatre, the Old Church, Driftwood Hall and the brand-new Bovill Square on Main St. are buzzing year-round with dramatic performances and concert events.

For the most up to date information on what’s happening in Smithers this winter, call or stop by the Smithers Visitor Centre, just off Highway 16, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm Call: 1.800.542.6673 or visit www.tourismsmithers.com.

www.skiandstay.ca

WHEN IT COMES TO THE ARTS IN SMITHERS WINTER IS HOT. Smithers doesn’t lack for top-notch talent, strutting their stuff almost every weekend.

There is indoor entertainment to be found at a wide variety of places, from Open Mic Night at the Blue Fin Sushi Bar and events at the Alpenhorn Pub and Bistro, to full-on stage productions at the Della Herman Theatre.

You’re likely to see Alex Cuba, our very own multi-Latin Grammy winner while strolling the stores and coffee hangouts.

Be sure to stop by Mountain Eagle Books and SpeeDee Interior Stationery to get tickets for who’s playing where or what’s on stage.

So after a day of cool fun, be sure to take in some hot entertainment as you Ski & Stay in Smithers.

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• • • •

Adventure Starts Here

Book with Us!

Cat Skiing Heli Skiing Guided Snowmobile trips On hill accommodations

Wayside Service

a camp for all ages and all seasons

Come play in our mountains!

The perfect snowmobile getaway with everything from groomed trails for a nice day on the mountain to white knuckle steep and deep for the ultimate adventure seekers!

Wayside Service » 4320 Hwy 16, Smithers » 250-847-3784 www.acsmithers.net www.skiandstay.ca

’S T A ?

H W RE HE Helping you put down roots ... since 1939 1175 Main St. Smithers, BC 1-800-360-3268 | 250-847-9222 calderwoodrealty@telus.net www.calderwoodrealty.com

They say when you visit a new place it’s good to know a local.

Now you do.

The scoop on local concerts, workshops + more: BugwoodBean.com/events-board

Look Great Feel Fabulous!

1176 Main Street, Smithers www.barbsboutique.ca 250-847-8789

Great European Fashion Sizes 12 & up

www.skiandstay.ca

Now Under New Ownership Marcel & Kendra Thibodeau 250-847-5472 Tatlow Road, Smithers

Daddio’s FAMILY RESTAURANT

Check us out on Facebook and Trip Advisor

Baked Fresh Daily

Hours: 7:30am-5pm Tuesday - Saturday 1172 Main Street Smithers, BC

Fine Pastries • Bakery • Coffeeshop

Tel: 250.847.9044

250.847.9742

SMITHERS, BC 3735 Alfred Avenue 250-847-2255

TRACKSIDE CANTINA Mexican Restaurante

3840 Broadway, Smithers

uise’s Kitchen o L

Fresh, Fun, Fabulous.

Reservations recommended: 250-847-3363 • 3815 Railway Avenue, Smithers

Try Our All Day Smorgasbord 250-847-2828 • 1314 Main Street

Hours: Mon-Thurs 11-8 Fri-Sat 11-9 Sun 10-8

Open: Monday - Saturday 7:30am-3pm

Breakfast & Lunch 1293 Main St. (Smithers Plaza)

Specializing in Ukrainian Food

Smithers 3862 Broadway Ave. 310-0001

250-847-2547

Pizza Salad Wings Dips Breasticks

EVERY SANDWICH TELLS A STORY

SMITHERS

250.847.4771 » 1323 MAIN ST, SMITHERS www.skiandstay.ca

’S T A NG H I W EN P P HA FEBRUARY • • • • •

•

Feb. 15 Smithers Secondary’s Big Band Dance. St. Joe’s Auditorium. Tickets at Mountain Eagle Books Feb. 16 Smithers Film Society, Dallas Buyers Club, Roi Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 22 BV District 4-H Jamboree Fundraiser Feb. 26 Vanderhoof weekend at HBM*Lift tickets only $20.14 Feb. 26 Bingo at the Old Church at 7 p.m.

• • • • • •

March 1 Oh Canada Concert featuring Alex Cuba, Mark Perry, Jenny. Lester, Sharon Carrington and more. 7:30 p.m at the Della Herman Theatre March 1 & 15 Indoor Farmers’ Market – Smithers Curling Club from 9 a.m. to noon March 1 Moricetown weekend at HBM*Lift tickets only $20.14 March 2 Smithers Film Society presents Long Walk to Freedom at 7:30 p.m. at the Roi Theatre March 8 Houston weekend at HBM*Lift tickets only $20.14 March 8-9 Valhalla Everest Challenge at HBM* March 12 & 26 Bingo at the Old Church at 7 p.m.

Smithers

• • •

MARCH •

• • •

March 15 Jason Scott’s Diamond Forever celebration of Neil Diamond – Smithers Royal Canadian Legion March 15 Terrace weekend at HBM*Lift tickets only $20.14 March 16 Rayz Trix in the Stix contest at HBM* March 17 to 21 Shiverfest games, entertainment, prizes and friends at HBM* March 22 Family Race for both skiers and snowboarders at HBM* March 29 Prince Rupert weekend at HBM* Lift tickets only $20.14 March 29 Schuss Boomer Downhill - Smithers Ski and Snowboard Club annual fundraising race at HBM*

APRIL • • • •

•

April 5 Indoor Farmers’ Market – Smithers Curling Club from 9 a.m. to noon April 5 Smithers weekend at HBM*Lift tickets only $20.14 April 12 Indoor Farmers’ Market – Smithers Curling Club from 9 a.m. to noon April 19 BV Concert Association presents Shay Keubler/ Karoshi – tickets available at Mountain Eagle Books in Smithers April 20 Schnai Day at HBM*– This final blast of the ski season. Costumes, and the slush cup! *HBM = Hudson Bay Mountain

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22-01-14 4:00 PM