May 28, 2014

VACATION IDEAS I ACCOMMODATIONS I EVENTS & MORE

Cowichan Lake

2014 Find adventure...just up the road VISITOR’S GUIDE

Yours to

EXPLORE!

May to September 2014

PO Box 10, Lake Cowichan, BC V0R 2G0

250.749.4383 www.lakecowichangazette.com Published by Black Press Publisher: Dennis Skalicky Contributor: Malcolm Chalmers

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Welcome to Cowichan Lake

Cowichan Lake is situated on the southern half of Vancouver Island, halfway between the island’s east and west coasts. Thirty-four kilometers from the town of Duncan, the lake is an ideal vacation destination with its temperate weather and many beaches and trails.

The Cowichan Lake area sits in the midst of a temperate rain forest, making for lots of rain in the winter and lots of sun in the summer. Known by the areas First Nation communities as Kaatza, or “the big lake,” Cowichan Lake is 30 kilometres long and is one of the largest bodies of fresh water on Vancouver Island.

The lake is home to five communities, including Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Mesachie Lake, Honeymoon Bay, Caycuse.

Port Renfrew, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is also accessible from the lake by taking the Pacific Marine Circle Route out of Mesachie Lake. The Circle Route is a paved, meandering highway beside which visitors can view ancient old growth trees, explore trails,

and much more.

This Visitor Guide provides information on many of the areas attractions, events, and communities, but it only begins to scratch the surface in terms of what the area has to offer. Take advantage of swimming, boating, kayaking, water skiing, and canoeing. Camp in one of the many campgrounds, or take part in one of the many events hosted by the local townships every summer.

The Cowichan River has also become increasingly popular over the years. River enthusiasts often park in Lake Cowichan and ride inner tubes or inflatable rafts down to Skutz Falls, or drive to Marie Canyon and tube to Stoltz Pool.

Lake Cowichan is the largest community at the lake, with roughly half of the area’s 6,000 residents. It has an abundance of accommodations including hotels, cottage rentals, bed and breakfasts, and plenty of camping. There are excellent stores, restaurants, watering holes and a multitude of other services.

Cowichan Lake...

This is my Anywhere Vacation Capital of Vancouver Island

“ YO U R S TO E X P LO R E” Cowichan Lake is the second largest on Vancouver Island – 34 km in length. We are located just 26 km west of Duncan on Highway 18. Enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, waterskiing, fishing, camping, cycling, hiking, tubing, golfing, recreation sports, summer community events.

EX

2

P

LO R E

The Cowichan River starts at the weir. This heritage river has been known as the Fly Fishing Capital of Canada since the early 1900s. Come and discover what we have to offer.

Cowichan Lake District Chamber of Commerce Our Visitor/Business Centre is located in the log cabin at Saywell Park on South Shore Rd.

Open Daily Beginning May 16 through September 1

250-749-3244 l www.cowichanlake.ca l info@cowichanlake.ca

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

What’s inside The Lake

Page 4

The River

Page 5

Camping

Page 6-7

Kaatza Museum

Page 9

Tubing

Page10

Best Beaches

Page 11

Hiking

Page 12

Area Map

Page 13

Wildlife

Page 14

Things To Do

Page 15

Lake Cowichan

Page 16

Mesachie Lake

Page 17

Honeymoon Bay

Page 18

Youbou

Page 19

Lake Days

Page 20

Golf

Page 21

Youbou Regatta

Page 22

Circle Route

Page 23

May to September 2014

3

Travel Info Centre If you have decided to vacation in the Cowichan Lake area, it is definitely worth your while to make the Cowichan Lake District Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Centre your first stop. The Centre is located in the middle of the town of Lake Cowichan at 125C South Shore Road and has all the information you need to make your vacation the best it can be.

The Centre is open every day throughout the summer, from the May long weekend through September. The capable staff, student employees, and volunteers will help find exactly what you need and provide you with valuable local information. During the off season the Visitor Centre is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Visitor Centre building is a log cabin situated in beautiful Saywell Park. Beside it is a large grass area with picnic tables and a ‘beach’ volleyball court, public washrooms with showers and shade provided by deciduous trees, all with the Cowichan Lake and Cowichan River in view. Once inside the building, find brochures for local businesses, maps, historical information, safety and logging road tips, as well as information about the Cowichan Lake area, the Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, and the rest of B.C.

The helpful staff will be able to provide information on the best accommodations, sightseeing locations, and events such as Lake Days, Heritage Days, and other community events. You can always visit www.cowichanlake.ca call 250-749-3244 or visit one of two information kiosks the centre provides in Lake Cowichan and Mesachie Lake.

The first is located just outside the Visitor Centre in Lake Cowichan.

The second is located next to the Mesachie Lake Skydome ball field.

Get to Mesachie Lake by driving west for only a few kilometres along South Shore Road. This kiosk provides information on the Pacific Marine Circle Route along with the communities of Sooke, Port Renfrew, Victoria, Duncan, and the many communities in between.

The Visitor Information Centre is managed by the Cowichan Lake District Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with the Town of Lake Cowichan.

Specializing in Hair Colour Pedicures & Manicures 250-932-1101

Unique RetailShore Products 99 South Rd.

Lake Cowichan, BC V0R2G0

Aromatherapy Scalp Massages Brow & Lash Tinting

4

May to September 2014

Yours to explore

If you're looking for a place to cool off, while surrounded by a warm, beautiful landscape, Cowichan Lake is the place for you.

Visitors come to the Cowichan Lake area for many reasons, but mostly it's to play on or in the water.

Every summer boaters, swimmers, water skiers, kayakers, canoers and even sailors

The Lake

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

head for the water to cool off and have some fun in the sun.

There's plenty of room on the 34-kilometre long lake to accommodate many recreational uses.

So, weather you fancy water skiing, a relaxing day of lake fishing or perhaps a group cruise of the lake, look no further than the two marinas on Cowichan Lake for easy access to the water.

The Cowichan Lake Marina is located in Lake Cowichan, off Point Ideal Road. Just turn right after the Visitor Information Centre.

The marina provides 115 moorage slips, including some capable of accommodating boats up to 55 feet. There are boat rentals, including deck boats, open aluminum boats, Sea-Doos and bow riders.

A boat launch ramp, fuel, holding tank pump out, a convenience store are also on site.

A number of stores in the communities around the lake sell supplies for your day on the water.

Lake Cowichan welcomes boaters!

Boating on pristine Cowichan Lake is always a favourite for family fun. However, there are a few things locals would like you to keep in mind.

Be courteous and considerate. Residents, other boaters, and beach-users deserve no less.

Be muffled! Remember to maintain your muffler in good working order and to disconnect muffler cut-outs or by-passes so they cannot be easily reconnected while the vessel is in operation—as per item 1,000 of the Small Vessel Amendments to the Canada Shipping Act.

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Yours to explore

The River

May to September 2014

5

For those interested in slightly more turbulent water, the Cowichan River is a natural playground.

The river flows some 30 kilometres from Cowichan Lake through the Town of Lake Cowichan and Duncan to its estuary in Cowichan Bay. The Cowichan River is designated as a Provincial Heritage River and a National Heritage River and provides opportunities for swimming, canoeing, tubing, whitewater kayaking, rafting. It features calm waters through Lake Cowichan, but downstream there are several rapids, including those at Skutz Falls, that should be respected by recreationists.

The Cowichan River is world famous for its fishing, especially fly fishing. Several types of salmon and trout are swimming about, just waiting to strike your hook.

You can access the river from several spots in the Town of Lake Cowichan, including the Duck Pond (off Park Road), Saywell Park and Central Park, Little Beach on Greendale Road and from the Trans Canada Trail or via the Skutz Falls turnoff from Highway 18, about 10 kilometres east of Lake Cowichan.

Cowichan River Provincial Park, east of Lake Cowichan, is a 1,414-hectare park that stretches alongside more than 20 kilometres of the river.

The river is also a hiker’s heaven, with 20-kilometres of winding trails on both sides of the river that provide many spectacular views, as well as the chance to see a variety of flora, fauna and wildlife. The trails link in several locations with the Trans Canada Trail.

On your way through town, be sure to stop in at

SCARLETT’S second hand boutique

Women’s Fashion Boutique Home Decor • Accessories Footwear • Bathing Suits • Purses Webkinz • Assorted Candy

HOURS

“You never know what you’ll find” A Unique Boutique • Womens and Mens Clothing • Accessories • Furniture • Local handmade creations 40 South Shore Rd. (beside Post Office)

250.932.9009

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

11 -3 11 - 3 11 - 3 10 - 6 10 - 6 10 - 6 10 - 5

105 South Shore Road (Next to Jakes at the Lake) copperlane@shaw.ca 250.932.3077

6

May to September 2014

S LCOME ENIORS! E W We invite all seniors visiting the area to drop in for a visit, meet other “golden agers” and enjoy a cup of coffee or something from our kitchen.

COWICHAN LAKE AND DISTRICT SENIORS CENTER 55 CORONATION AVENUE (BESIDE THE POST OFFICE)

ENJOY YOUR STAY!

We welcome visitors to our area Open 2 a.m. pm Monday Thursday Openat11 daily, 12 to noon Sunday 11 am Friday and Saturday

Lake Cowichan Computers Royal Canadian Legion Branch 210 Lake Cowichan, 15 North Shore Road

• In-House • In-Store • Service • Sales • Support and free advice

• Computer supplies • Printer supplies including ink • Waterproof camera bags • DivX NBox Media Players

Camping

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Lowest Labour Prices in Town

New Location, 93 South Shore Road Call Dave 250.932.2667

Yours to explore

There are 800 sites at campgrounds along the 75 kilometres around Cowichan Lake. The main camping season extends from the long weekend in May to the Thanksgiving Day weekend in October.

Lakeview Park Campsite

Municipal

Lakeview Park, located just west of Lake Cowichan, has 69 sites, 28 of which have lake views. Wireless internet is available and there are free children’s programs and family movie nights.

Be sure to book your boat moorage beforehand, online, otherwise you’re likely to find yourself out of luck. Moorage comes at a cost of $16/night. Campsite fees include tax and are $33/ night for non-power sites and with power sites costing $8 more.

Walk-in tenting sites $20. For more details or reservations call 250.749.6681 (from June to August call 250.749.3350) or visit their website online at www.town.lakecowichan.bc.ca/camping.

Beaver Lake Resort

Private

Just west of Lakeview, this private resort features 65 camping RV and tent sites, with full connections to hydro. There is also a lakefront cabin for rent, laundry facilities, free hot showers, flush toilets, water craft rentals, a horseshoe pit, guest programs and crafts for the younger kids. Call 250-749-7792 for rates.

Gordon Bay Provincial Park

Provincial

TimberWest Sites (4)

Forestry

Gordon Bay, further west along the lake past Honeymoon Bay, is a large provincial campground on the shore of a small bay.

It has many amenities, making it one of the most popular in the B.C. Parks system. There are 126 campsites with water on tap.

Gordon Bay has a large sandy swimming beach with a floating boundary of large boom logs, an amphitheatre, an adventure playground for children and a shower house that is wheel chair accessible. The fee is $30 a night per party, $14 for seniors until June 15. Reservations at the park are recommended, especially for summer camping. Call B.C. Parks at 1-800-689-9025, 250749-3415 (local number) or visit www.discovercamping.ca for information.

TimberWest sites are located at various locations around Cowichan Lake. Camping is $20/night (drive-in) or $25/night with a reservation. Senior's rate is $15/night and $20/night with a reservation. Firewood will be available on-site while campfires are permitted for $8/ level wheel-barrow load. Fees are collected daily by an attendant. Call 250-749-3873 for more information.

1. Heather Campsite

Located on the west end of the lake there are 47 camping sites. The 12 beach sites are very popular, although they require campers to carry in all gear and supplies. Water is available from taps, but it should be boiled before drinking. Garbage can be disposed onsite.

2. Kissinger Lake Campsite

Located on the shores of a small lake stocked with rainbow trout, Kissinger has 26 sites among trees, eight with a lake view and is on the road to Nitinat.

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

May to September 2014

7

3. Caycuse Campsite

Shady during the hot summer weather, Caycuse is on the south side of the lake with 26 sites among the forest, some with lovely lake views. Boiling the water is advised.

4. Little Shaw Campsite

Northwest toward Youbou on the site of an old log dump at Little Shaw Creek, this small site has five camping spots, all of which are carry-in.

BC Forest Recreation (3)

Forestry

Also located at various locations around Cowichan Lake, camping at BC Forest Recreation sites costs a mere $15 per night.

Waterfront sites are plus $2 premium. Firewood is available when fires permitted. There are pit toilets — just to be on the safe side, make sure to take your own bathroom tissue. Quiet time is from 11 p.m., gate is closed at 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. Visitors are asked to leave by 8 p.m. Sites are family oriented. An on-site host will collect fees on a daily basis. Call 250-746-4555 for more info or go to www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca

1. Maple Grove Campsite

Another rustic camp that has 61 campsites; some in the open but many under tall trees with lovely southern views across the lake. Four sites are walk-in. There is a paved boat launch (for boats no longer than 14 ft.) and a gently sloped gravel beach for sunning and swimming. It is also a good hiking area.

2. Pine Point Campsite

A rustic site, with 58 sites. There are beautiful views across the lake, a paved boat launch and a beach of small gravel. There

Ladies New Fashions

are no water taps or pumps, so campers should bring their own water. In order to keep from attracting bears, there are no garbage cans, so bring strong black garbage bags to carry refuse away from the site.

3. Nixon Creek Campsite

On the south side of the lake and is heavily treed with an older stand; a West Coast feel. The narrow road leading down into the site is about 1.5 kilometres. The campground is a Forest Service site with 48 campsites, a gravel boat launch and a scenic walking trail along the beach. There are no garbage cans or water on tap, so be prepared to carry water in and garbage out.

Lubin’s Campground

Private

Peter's Pond

Private

Lubin’s is located on Cowichan Lake in Youbou. It offers RV hook-ups and a boat launch. Call 250-745-3464.

Located in Honeymoon Bay, this facility includes camping for tents and trailers with power, moorage and water hook-ups.

250-749-6687 or 250-715-7490.

Vancouver Island’s Largest Estate Winery

Canadian Made Clothing for Every Occasion

Fit For A Princess

Between Irly Bird & The Gazette Lake Cowichan 250.749.0244

Tasting room open 11am - 5pm daily October through April - see website for hours 250.709.9986 | averillcreek.ca 6552 North Road, Duncan, BC V9L 6K9 5 minutes drive west of Highway 1 on the Cowichan Valley Highway

8

May to September 2014

Yours to explore Keep your eyes open while enjoying the clear waters of Cowichan Lake, as you might just catch a glimpse of the Stin-qua, Cowichan Lake’s very own Ogopogo like serpent.

For years residents have claimed they have seen this mysterious creature cruising the lake’s waters. The Kaatza Station Museum files report the creature to be “50 feet long, with a very large head, furious eyes and enormous mouth and teeth. He is seen periodically swimming about the lake seeking whom he can devour.”

It is believed that there are underground tunnels between Cowichan Lake and Port Renfrew which allow the creature to stay illusive. Over the years there have been many sightings of the Stin-qua, though none have been able to prove its existence. The Leader, Lake Cowichan’s

Legends

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

newspaper in the 1930s, reports that local residents were anxious to come across the creature and photograph or capture it so as to have proof of this “fish story.”

However, this legend did not begin with the first European settlers in the area. The First Nations, who used Cowichan Lake and the surrounding area as hunting and fishing grounds, also have stories about the stin-qua. Legend says that three young women were swallowed whole, boat and all, by the serpent when returning home from taking their husbands to Bald Mountain to hunt for the day.

You might also want to watch for signs of Tzun-a-quat, or Mesachie Man, when hiking local trails or camping in local campgrounds. Mesachie Man is supposed to have been half man and half

gorilla, and it is said he escaped from a sailing vessel that went down off the west coast of Vancouver Island.

The First Nations in the area held Mesachie Man in awe and parts of the lake were taboo because it was thought these areas were his territory. Many people claim to have seen or heard this creature with at least one account of a local resident hearing blood-curdling yells and seeing an evil looking face with a pronounced brow and prognathous jaw.

Mesachie Man has drawn attention from around the world, and many have written about him, including John Bindermagel, who included the mysterious man-like creature in his book North America’s Great Ape, the Sasquatch.

We Are Ready For Summer!

Always a Sale Rack!

Large selection of...

Runners ✣ Sandals Back Packs ✣ Purses ✣ Socks ✣ Wallets ✣ Scarves ✣ Bagallini Bags ✣

✣

• all day breakfast • daily specials • kids menu • live music • fully licensed • under new ownership

72 Cowichan Lake Rd. Lake Cowichan

250-749-6350 Sunday - Wednesday 8ish to 8ish Thursday - Saturday 8ish to late

Serving the Cowichan Lake Area for 35 Years!

FOOTWEAR CENTRE 42 South Shore Road (beside the Post Office)

250-749-3721

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Yours to explore

History

May to September 2014

9

Kaatza Station Museum and Archives Explore the many displays and wonders the Kaatza Station Museum has to offer. Here is where you will find historical information on the area’s extensive logging industry, the railway, and the families who forged a community out of temperate rainforest wilderness.

Kaatza museum staff will introduce you to the many exhibits, which include a pioneer life display with a 12-foot-high mural depicting life in Cowichan Lake in the 1920s; the John Padjen Room illustrating the history of the IWA in Cowichan; as well as a store, a post-office, a mine shaft and much more.

The museum consists of three buildings: the main building (or old train station) where the majority of the museum’s collection and gift shop items are on display; the Bell Tower School where you will find a collection of photographs by Wilmer Gold; and the Mesachie Lake school building with a workshop for volunteers and more display items.

Outside the museum find rail and logging industry machinery, including a 1927 Shay locomotive, flatcar, and 1916 caboose.

There is also a 1927 Plymouth locomotive and a speeder.

The museum is located 125 South Shore Road, in Lake Cowichan. The main building is open from:

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Seven days a week from: June to August Open 10am - 4pm Monday to Friday January to May September to December For more information, go to: kaatzamuseum.ca email: kaatzamuseum@shaw.ca, or phone 250-749-6142

Museum Fast Facts • The John Padjen Room: Illustrating the history of the International Woodworkers of America in Canada • The Mill Room: Telling the story of the three mills that were in Cowichan Lake area • The Wilmer Gold collection: Consisting of many large format photos of the logging industry in the 1930s and 1940s • The Harry Wright Library: Containing over 600 books about railways, both their history and operation

• A 1949 era classroom display

• A fine collection of antique logging equipment, including power saws and mill equipment

• Extensive archives, chronicling the history of the Cowichan Lake area people.

It includes newspapers dating back to 1921, maps, and various other historical articles.

• 1927 Shay locomotive, a log car, a 1916 caboose, a 1927 Plymouth locomotive and a speeder

May to September 2014

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Tubing Hiking Caving

Salmon Mushroom Festival

and

and

Sandy Stinson

Just before the snow begins falling around the lake, the Salmon and Mushroom Festival brings the area’s mushroom enthusiasts come out to celebrate mushroom season.

Salmon and Mushroom Festival organizer, Ingeborg Woodsworth, says the Cowichan Lake area is prime for collecting mushrooms.

“I thought I’d died and gone to heaven,” she said of her initial arrival in the Cowichan Lake area.

“The variety! It’s a privilege to be here.”

This year will mark the 15th year of this annual event. The event runs September 27 and 28, and will include mushroom identification activities, vendors selling mushrooms and local crafts and wares, workshops, and other mushroom-related activities. The salmon side of things will be represented by the local Six First Nations smoked salmon by donation, which is a community effort, with local vendors, restaurants, and businesses raising funds for the community. Be sure to visit the Fungal Cafe, GO BC Wild Salmon Display and the Field Trips on Sunday. For more information on the festival, Woodsworth can be contacted at 250-749-6291, or by e-mail at mayocreekgardens@ shaw.ca. You can also check out the festival website at salmonmushroomfestival.com.

With groups of people dotting Cowichan River with inner-tubes, dinghies, and other floatable devices throughout the summer, tubing down Cowichan River has never been more popular.

“Our parking lot gets filled up during the summer!” local Chamber of Commerce Visitor/ Business Centre Coordinator Katherine Worsley says of the influx of tubing tourists.

The peak tubing season comes during the warmest summer months of July and August, when tubers can enjoy a combination of the hot sun and the cool of the water.

With tubers, though, comes various concerns from the Cowichan Lake area’s riverside residents.

As such, the Cowichan Lake and River Stewardship Society has installed several humorous signs along tubers’ route eastward through town. Their main tips include; don’t litter, trespass, drink alcohol, or curse while tubing down the river. It is a family activity, after all.

Be sure also to jump out by Little Beach, located a few kilometres downstream of Lake Cowichan; a trip that should take under two hours, from a starting point of Saywell Park. Otherwise, you’ll be floating down the river for a few more hours before hitting the potentially dangerous rapids of Skutz Falls.

An alternative point to jump in the Cowichan River is at Central Park, where a small stairwell, hidden in brush, will lead you down into the water.

Cowichan Lake has many trails, and even caves to offer the outdoor enthusiast. The trails and caves vary in length and difficulty, and provide outdoor fun for every age and skill level.

From the 70.2 Trestle Loop and Friendship Trail Park, both accessible from downtown Lake Cowichan, to Mesachie Mountain and Christopher Rock, there is something to satisfy everyone.

Honeymoon Bay even has a wildflower reserve which provides an easy walk through forest and riparian habitat.

When it comes to caves, Skutz Falls has several to choose from, one being home to a population of bats! The Caycuse Caves mean a bit of a drive, but are great for novice spelunkers who want a taste of underground exploration.

For more information on the areas trails and caves, pick up a copy of “Our Favourite Hikes in the Cowichan Lake Area” by John and Georgie Clarke and Rick Nott at the Cowichan Lake and District Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centre in downtown Lake Cowichan.

Hikers and spelunkers are advised to use caution when exploring the area, bring plenty of water, and dress appropriately.

RE/MAX of LAKE COWICHAN www.remaxlakecowichan.com Your Trusted Authority Going the extra mile for you!

250-749-6000

Pat Duringer

10

Beaches

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Lakeview Park Lake Cowichan Large sandy beach area with little shade. No dogs are allowed on the beach. The Town owned facility is a kilometre west of town on South Shore Road. Drive past the arena and look for the sign on your right.

Riverside Park Lake Cowichan Quaint park on the river known to locals as the Duck Pond: picnic tables, washrooms and a playground, sandy beach and floating dock. Turn onto North Shore Road and turn left at Park Road or take the footbridge across the river into downtown Lake Cowichan. No lifequards on duty but the river flows slowly.

Little Beach Lake Cowichan Small but popular swimming hole on the Cowichan River. Turn onto Greendale Road, follow it for about half a kilometre. Located on the right past the houses. Use caution, river moves swiftly.

Spring Beach Meades Creek Pleasant wooded park with washroom and picnic tables. Named for it’s natural springs that flow year round. Follow North Shore Road and

May to September 2014

turn left on Meades Creek Road and follow it until you get to the forest plantation, look left for a yellow gate. Park along the road and the beach is a short walk in.

Bear Lake Park Mesachie Lake Small park set under mature trees complete with picnic tables, lawn area, fishing dock and boat launch. Drive west on South Shore Road to Mesachie Lake, turn right on to Bear Lake Road and follow it to the end, where it turns into Fish Road. At the end of Fish Road you will find the park.

Lily Beach Honeymoon Bay Five minutes west of Mesachie Lake, turn right on Beach Drive and turn into the parking lot. You can only access the beach via a short trail. This small beach provides plenty of shade and there’s a small dock. No boat access is allowed.

Central Beach Honeymoon Bay Turn right onto Park Road from South

Welcome to Lake Cowichan

Come and enjoy nature at its best!

Mayor and Council Town of Lake Cowichan

www.Town.LakeCowichan.bc.ca

11

Shore Road. The beach is below the parking lot.

Washroom facilities are at the top of the parking lot.

Honeymoon Bay Gordon Bay Park Beach access is available to the public. The beautiful pebble beach offers a swimming area surrounded by a log boom and a kids’ play area. Drive through Honeymoon Bay, turn right at the fork in the road onto Walton Road. The park is at the end of Walton Road.

Price Park Youbou Fern-lined walking trails lead to secluded, natural beaches. Swordfern Creek, an important spawning ground for fish, flows quietly through the park. From Youbou Road turn left onto Miracle Way opposite the ‘Welcome to Youbou’ sign. The park is at the end of Miracle Way. Arbutus Park Youbou Drive through Youbou until you reach the west entrance to Elder Crescent. Arbutus Park is the only life guarded park on the lake. It has a beach, dock, slide, diving board, washrooms and picnic area.

Heather Campsite Located on the west end of Cowichan Lake, this campsite has a nice sandy beach, a boat launch and scenic view. It can be reached by driving about 38 kilometres on either side of the lake, through Youbou or Honeymoon Bay, via a gravel road.

www.jakesatthelake.com Kids Welcome Gluten Free Menu Daily Specials

Jakes’s at the Lake - Casual Dining Open daily for Lunch & Dinner Call 250.932.2221 for Reservations

12

May to September 2014

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

A chance to hike the area and meet some of the local residents If you are new to Lake Cowichan or just visiting and you want to know more about the area why not just take a hike.

Cowichan Retreads Hiking Group hosts a 2 to 5 hour (pet free) hike on a local area trail or another Central Island location each Wednesday. The group meets at Saywell Park at 9:30 am and drives to the trail head.

A vehicle is not necessary as car pools are organized.

Hikes range from easy to advanced in locations along rivers, creeks, up mountains, through ancient forests or on surrounding islands.

You can join the Retreads Hiking Club for $15/year for unlimited hikes or just show up and pay $2/person to join a hike.

More information about the hikes can be found at the Cowichan Lake Sports Arena, local area Halls, the Lake Cowichan Visitor Information Centre next to Saywell Park or contact club members Willa Suntjen 250-7494144 and David Kidd 250-749-7790 To join the Retreads Hiking Club, contact Cowichan Lake Recreation at 250.749.6742.

You may also contact the club directly by email at cowichanlakeretreads@gmail.com

Summer 2014 Cowichan Lake Recreation

HIPS C & H FIS PTAINS & CA SKET BA

WRAPS C H I C K E N& WINGS

Swim Lessons: Four 2 week sets of Red Cross lessons July 7–August 28 at Arbutus Park

Day Camp: Mon-Fri at the Cowichan Lake Sports Arena.

Weekly themed programs available, July 7 – August 29, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Lake Days Dance: Laser light video dance party! Saturday, June 7 at CLSA. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Tickets $15/person. No minors.

Canada Day: Tuesday, July 1 at Mesachie Lake Hall and ball field, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Live music, concession, arts, crafts, games, and more. All welcome, no cover charge.

Youbou Regatta: Saturday, August 9. Parade at 10:30 a.m.

Youbou Hall to Arbutus Park followed by swim races, canoe races, volleyball tournament, and tons of free fun for the whole family.

Summer Hockey School with Steve Lindgren, head instructor.

Ages 6 – 10 August 11 –1 6, ages 11 – 14 August 18 – 23.

Powerskating for ages 6+ August 11 – 15

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COWICHAN LAKE RECREATION PROGRAMS

Call Cowichan Lake Recreation at: 250-749-6742

Visit: cvrd.bc.ca

@mycvrd

facebook.com/mycvrd

Real Burgers & Great Pizza

Veggie Burgers, Poutine, Fresh Cut Fries, Yam Fries, Salads, Halibut Burgers, Chicken Burgers, Hot Dogs, Fried Chicken, Soft and Hard Ice Cream, Shakes, Sundaes

We Deliver to Local Campsites

49 flavours of milkshakes Pizza all day

250-749-7411

162 South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan Lake CowichanGazette GazetteVisitor’s Visitor’sGuide Guide

May Mayto toSeptember September2012 2014

13 13

Cowichan Lake

Heather Campsite

Kissinger Lake Campsite

N

Maple Grove Campsite Nixon Creek Campsite

➤

t Lake, To Nitina Valley, h Carmana , Bamfield i, nd rn Port Albe National Park a im Pacific R Trail ast West Co

Pine Point Campsite

Caycuse

Youbou Caycuse Campsite

Bald Mtn.

Springs Beach

Gordon Bay Provincial Park

Wildflowe i r Wildflower Preserve

Honeymoon Bay

Lake Cowich Cowichan han Mesachie Lake

Beaver Lake Resort

Legend Campsite

Picnicking

Boat Launch

Swimming

Cowichan Lake Lake MARINA Cowichan Boat & Jet Ski Rentals & Floating Store • Fuel Premium gas, ice, pop,Store candy, Fuel &boat Floating

• Premium boat gas, ice, pop, candy,

Boat & Jet Ski Rentals

ice cream, black water pump out.

Board ice& cream, blackShop water pump out.

• Ski Wakeboards, Skis, Tubes, Ropes,

Rope Water Sports • Tow Wakeboards, Skis, Tubes, Ropes, Clothing, Accessories

Rope Water Sports • Tow Board Shorts, Bikinis, Beachwear CAC/WSWC Certified Coaching,

Beginner to Advanced

PointIdeal Ideal––turn turnright rightat atthe theA&W A&W •• 250-749-3530 250-749-3530 Point

www.cowichanlakemarina.com••www.towropewatersports.com www.towropewatersports.com www.cowichanlakemarina.com

14

Yours to explore The Cowichan Lake area is home to bear, elk, deer, cougars, wolves, as well as many varieties of birds, fish, and other smaller critters.

Much of the land around the Lake is privately owned.

However, there is no shortage of trails and campgrounds to satisfy any hiker’s fancy (see pages 6, 10, 11). Dress in layers, wear hiking boots and bring plenty of water. Tell someone where you are going and bring a cell phone.

Witnessing and photographing local wildlife can be a wonderful experience, but keep safety in mind. If you encounter a bear keep eye contact, wave your arms and look as big as you can and slowly back away. If you come across a cougar it is also necessary to make a lot of noise and even wave sticks.

Store food in coolers, campers or vehicles as feeding wildlife can later have some undesirable consequences for local residents. This is especially true of bears.

Wildlife

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

May to September 2014

For elk and deer it is important not to touch their young and always assume that a mother, or cow, is nearby. If you see a calf or fawn on the road, use a stick to gently nudge it to the side.

The Cowichan Lake Wilderness Watch requests that any sightings of poaching, illegal fishing, or other suspicious activity involving wildlife be reported to the local conservation office by phoning 1-877-952-7277.

“A Suite Place to Stay”

TUBE and KAYAK RENTALS on beautiful Cowichan Lake & River • Shuttle service included in rentals • Life jackets available in all sizes • Book online at www.orkaadventures.com

250.932.2222 Email: info@orkaadventures.com 65 Cowichan Lake Road Lake Cowichan BC

LAKE COWICHAN LODGE 30 newly updated suites with full kitchen.

High Speed Wireless Internet | Cable TV | DD Phones, Voicemail | Guest Laundry | Accessible Suite

201 Cowichan Lake Road | Lake Cowichan | BC Tel:

250-749-6717 | Reservations: 1-800-887-1288 www.lclodge.com

Things to do

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Visit the Kaatza Station Museum

May to September 2014

15

It has largest known concentration of pink fawn lilies (Erythronium revolutum) in B.C. Two dozen species of other wild flowers are also represented there.

Go for a picnic

There are plenty of parks around Cowichan Lake and along the Cowichan River to eat and enjoy nature. See page 11.

Go fishing

Cowichan Lake, Cowichan River, Bear Lake, and Mayo Lake offer fishing at its best. There are several stores in Lake Cowichan, Youbou and Honeymoon Bay that sell the gear and licenses that Play volleyball or tennis There’s a volleyball court in Lake Cowichan’s Saywell Park (bring you need. your own ball) and tennis courts on Cowichan Avenue for friendly Swim at 5 different locations With easy access to the lake and the river you can spend the day games all summer. finding your favorite places. See page 11.

Walk the floating dock at Lakeview Park The museum is located in Saywell Park, behind the Info Centre. It is open seven days a week through the summer, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Located a couple of minutes west of Lake Cowichan on South Shore Visit the Forest Workers’ Memorial Park This park on South Shore Road recognizes the rich logging history Road, this floating dock is linked to a beautiful forest trail. of Cowichan Lake and remembers the men and women who helped Go kayaking Kayaking has become more and more popular at Cowichan Lake. develop this area.

Launch sites can be found at various locations around the lake, Take a hike There’s the Trans Canada Trail, whose western terminus is in Lake including Cowichan Lake Marina and Lakeview Park.

Cowichan, or the winding paths along the Cowichan River, as well as Go water skiing Located in Lake Cowichan off Point Ideal Road, Cowichan Lake several excellent trails in and around Youbou. See page 10.

Marina can outfit you for an exhilarating day on the lake.

Go bowling

Take a drive to Youbou to see the home of the only known sancIn 1952, Western Forest products commissioned George Jenkins to tioned bowling alley in Canada that still uses human pinsetters. Call 250.749.6742 to book lanes. paint the murals depicting the rich forestry history of the region.

Check out historic murals in Honeymoon Bay Hall Visit the Honeymoon Bay Ecological Reserve

Visit artist and artisan studios

Formerly named the Honeymoon Bay Wildflower Reserve it is Drop by the Cowichan Lake District Visitors’ Centre for a list of local located on South Shore Road about 2.5 km west of Honeymoon Bay. studios open to the public. Artisan’s creations range from violin maker to mixed media and more.

Music in the Park Each Saturday night this summer come and enjoy a concert in the park, grab a blanket, bring a chair or just sit on the grass at the Central Park Bandshell. Your family will enjoy a wide variety of local entertainers.

Saturday evenings in July and August from 6pm until 8:30.pm Summer Nights presents music in the park with bands that ranging from Country & Western, Swing music or even some Folk or Gospel music.

Bring your dinner or just some snacks to enjoy as you listen to music from bands and singers like The Cowichan Consort Band, Marimba Mazimba, Rhythm and Roots singer Terry Brennan or the Cowichan Swing Band.

There is also an open mic for anyone wanting to get up on the stage and entertain,it is from 6pm to 6:30 before the headline band. At 6:30 the headline band performs, some weeks there may even be music by two bands.

The music is free but there is a donation box if you feel like donating to our local Radio station CIVI “The Lake”, the Kaatza Arts Group, Lake Cowichan Animal Rescue, Lake Cowichan Seniors Center or the Kaatza Museum. These are all not for profit organizations in this area.

Central Park is located by the roundabout at South Shore and North Shore roads.

16

May to September 2014

Yours to explore The Town of Lake Cowichan is situated at the east end of Cowichan Lake along the banks of the Cowichan River. Just a 20 minute drive from Duncan, known as the City of Totems, Lake Cowichan is the ideal destination for any summer vacation.

The Town of Lake Cowichan was incorporated in 1944 and currently has a population of approximately 3,000 people. This number more than doubles in the summer months.

Before settlers arrived, local First Nation bands from both the east and west coasts of Vancouver Island used Lake Cowichan for fishing and hunting and utilized the area’s large cedars for building canoes.

European settlement of the Town of Lake Cowichan began in about 1833 when William Forest arrived in Cowichan Bay. Soon after he and James Tolmie (the older brother of a later premier of British Columbia) toured the lake with the help of the First Nation Ikilass brothers. After assuring the provincial government that at least 12 settlers would move to the area, Forest was authorized to build a road to the town. This project was completed in 1886.

The town’s ties to the logging industry began with these first settlers. The industry flourished until January 2001, when the town of Youbou saw the closure of the last mill on the lake. Even though local mills have since closed, logging is still plays an important role in the economy. Visitors are reminded to maintain caution when driving any of the roads in the area, as active logging still takes place and logging trucks are a common sight.

As you can imagine, Lake Cowichan is rich with history. For instance, the Riverside Inn, which is located just before the South Shore Road Bridge, was originally built in 1883, and is still a local watering hole today.

Other notes of interest include Dr. Stoker, who lived in Marble Bay, and had two famous brothers. One was a surgeon for the royal family, and the other was infamous Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. The 1883 Stoker and Simpson home, located at Nels Beach, is now used for the University of Victoria’s Centre for Field Studies.

Today, the town boasts several fine bed

Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

and breakfasts, hotels, restaurants, a grocery store with a bakery, a marina, as well as a variety of commercial outlets.

If you plan to take advantage of the lake and do some fishing, water skiing, sailing, or kayaking, the marina is a great place to start. It is located at 415 Point Ideal Road and provides moorage, rentals and much more. June hours are Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., July and August 10 a.m. to sunset. You can also access the lake through the public boat launch off North Shore Road.

In recent years tubing down the river has become a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. Get in the water at Lake Cowichan and enjoy a lazy ride down to Little Beach or Skutz Falls, or choose a more challenging route and begin your journey at Marie Canyon and ride down to Stoltz Pool. Tubers are reminded not to litter and to respect the many private residents that line the banks of the river.

For more local information, go to the local Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centre and staff will be happy to help you find accommodation, local attractions, activities, and much more. The centre is located

by Saywell Park on South Shore Road (see page 3).

Town Parks

•The Friendship Park Fisheries Trail

is located beside the Country Grocer store on Cowichan Lake Road. The path winds along Oliver Creek, with several bridges and benches along the way.

•Central Park is alongside the river in downtown Lake Cowichan next to the traffic bridge. There is a fountain, picnic tables and an outdoor stage.

The fountain is in honour of Dr. William Carpentier who grew up in Lake Cowichan and was a physician to the astronauts of the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. Lake Cowichan’s war memorial is located beside the stage.

•The Duck Pond, officially called Riverside Park, is located on Park Road off North Shore Road. Here you can take a relaxing dip in the Cowichan River. See page 11 for more details.(Pictured) • Saywell Park is located at the head of the river, next to the tourist information booth in downtown Lake Cowichan on South Shore Road.

This park is home to many summer activities.

•Lakeview Park Campground is just west of town on South Shore Road. It has a beautuful public beach and day picnic area, as well as 72 campsites.

See page 6 for camping details.

The Duck Pond

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Yours to explore

Mesachie Lake

May to September 2014

Mesachie Lake is a tiny village located about five minutes west of Lake Cowichan on South Shore Road.

Visitors can also arrive Bear Lake Park by way of the Pacific Marine Circle Route, via Port Renfrew, a distance of approximately 55 kilometres.

In Mesachie Lake you will find it’s like stepping back in time, with two peaceful streets lined by old company homes beautifully painted and maintained, several with verandahs overlooking colorful gardens surrounded by picket fences.

At the north end of Forestry Road is a provincial government forestry research station where island conifers are grown and studied in order to produce strong stock from which quality seeds can be harvested.

A natural tree museum made up of a variety of heritage

trees can be toured in a leisurely walk along the main road and throughout the town area.

Tree locations and varieties can be found using a map on a large sign located on Bear Road.

Amenities include a community hall and ball field — called the Skydome — where the local area firefighters host a huge slo-pitch baseball tournament and dance every Father’s Day weekend, June 14th and 15th this year, to raise money for muscular dystrophy research.

There is a small boat launch and park at the end of Bear Road, a miniature golf course near the tree identification sign and a tiny post office if you are of mind to send a post card home with an unusual name on the post mark.

For more information about the Pacific Marine Circle Route and local area history, see page 23 or go online to www.mesachielake.ca.

Area Parks

• Mesachie Lake Skydome & Park This park includes a ball diamond, playground and a community hall.

• Bear Lake Park There is a beach and a boat launch, at the end of Bear Lake Road in Mesachie Lake.

SEE THE EXHIBITS IN A 100 ACRE LIVING MUSEUM RIDE THE RAILS • WALK THE TRAILS

AN ADVENTURE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

BCFORESTDISCOVERYCENTRE.COM 2892 DRINKWATER ROAD, DUNCAN BC V9L 6C2 (ON THE TRANS CANADA HWY.)

Our Island. Your Pharmacy.

Two locations in Lake Cowichan to serve you.

Island Pharmacy - Southshore 138 South Shore Road

250 749 3141 Island Pharmacy Island Pharmacy - Village 62 Cowichan Lake Road

250 749 0149

We Deliver!

BC FOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE

INFORMATION 250-715-1113

17

We Compound!

www.islandpharmacy.ca

18

May to September 2014

Yours to explore Honeymoon Bay, whose inviting name seems to promise newfound pleasures, is located on the south side of Cowichan Lake.

It can be reached by following South Shore Road for approximately 10 minutes west of Lake Cowichan.

Visitors can also arrive by way of the Pacific Marine Circle Route, via Port Renfrew to Mesachie Lake, a distance of about 55 kilometres.

Honeymooners and the rest of the world’s campers, boaters, golfers, history buffs and nature lovers can find much in and around the town to enjoy.

Central Park stretches north from Honeymoon Bay Hall through a grassy field graced by children’s seasonal artwork banners, past the carved wooden welcome sign across the road to a swimming beach at the waterfront.

Near the hall is Memory Lane, where

Honeymoon Bay

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

special trees have been planted to honour lost family and friends.

The hall is the heart of the town and the roadside reader board out front lists a wide variety of enjoyable local happenings hosted by its active community society. It is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.

There is a meeting room whose walls hold historic murals by an artist of stature, George Jenkins, as well as a large panel painted by old time resident Vince Allen that displays scientific but still beautifully painted diagrams of the wildflowers found in the Wildflower Reserve west of town.

Popular annual summer events include Bay Days, which happens in August this year. This is a family fun event with kids activities, lawn bowling and many more events for all ages. Visitors are welcome to join the fun in this community festival.

Each Saturday from spring to fall there is an outdoor market on the grounds of the

Coffee Mill across from the general store/ meat market and fire hall. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Beyond the Coffee Mill is Walton Road, which leads to beautiful Gordon Bay Provincial Park complete with woodland trails, camping, swimming and a boat launch.

West of the town is the scenic March Meadows Golf Course, voted the best ninehole course on the Island. (See story on page 21.)

Lastly, where the pavement ends, is a complex crossroads nicknamed Chicken Joe’s. From there it is possible to continue around the lake, but remember it is a logging road, headlights are mandatory, and logging trucks have the right of way.

For more information on the Wildflower Reserve and the history of the community, go online to www.honeymoonbay.com.

Area Parks • Central Park There is a beach, playground and baseball diamond.

• Lily Beach Park Nature park with beach.

• Gordon Bay Provincial park with beach, campsites and other amenities.

Overnight & Day Use Options!

17 Deluxe Suites, Extensive Health & Wellness Options Including Massage & Counselling, Salt Water Hot Tub, Infra-Red Sauna, Exercise Room, Labyrinth, Meeting Rooms, Food & Catering Services A Great Place for Private Getaways or Small Groups!

Please call for Reservations: (250) 749-4252

1-888-749-4252

www.honeymoonbayretreat.com

Honeymoon Bay Every Saturday

Outdoor Market N O W IN th OUR 8 YEAR

10am - 2pm May 17th until Thanksgiving

Look for in-season local produce, sewing, baking, preserves, woodworking, soap and body care products original art & more!

NEW VENDORS WELCOME Call Bob 250-749-7233 or 250-510-1113

Follow the signs to The Market in Honeymoon Bay

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Yours to explore Youbou, pronounced yoo bow, is a scenic village with a permanent population of about 900 people.

Located on the north side of Cowichan Lake, it is a popular spot for summer residents and has many vacation cottages, as well as a good beach front park for day use.

To get there, drive for about 15 minutes along the Youbou Highway — keep right at the Lake Cowichan welcome sign where Highway 18 ends.

The older part of the village stretches for about five kilometers along the shoreline, with newer developments east of town along the north arm of the lake.

The welcome to Youbou sign was hand carved by a local resident and its attractive flower garden is voluntarily planted and maintained by a Youbou family.

Youbou hosts the Youbou Regatta on August 9.

See page 22 for more details.

Youbou has one of the best ball parks at the lake. To get to the Little League Park, turn left off Bremner Road, which is just before the first store.

It has baseball field, playground and horseshoe

Youbou

May to September 2014

Area Parks

pitches.

The Youbou Lanes bowling alley is a great place to go for a change of pace. It’s the only known sanctioned hand set 10-pin bowling alley in Canada, built in mid ’50s. It also serves as a mini museum with many historical photos decorating the walls. It’s open Saturdays in the summer; phone 250-745-3431 for recorded hours of operation, or visit cvrd.bc.ca.

West of Youbou a gravel road continues around the lake. Remember to drive with lights on and give logging trucks the right of way on bridges.

Play it Safe

Be aware of hazards near the weir on Cowichan Lake

19

• Arbutus Park. On Youbou Road, just before the old post office, this waterfront gem includes a sandy beach, dock, diving board, swimming lanes, swings, a volleyball court, a covered picnic area, picnic tables and plenty of trees for shade.

There are lifeguards here from the end of June to the Labour Day long weekend.

• Swordfern Park. Located right off Youbou Road, the main highway into Youbou. It has a hiking trail along Price Creek to a little beach.

• Nantree Park. This is a lakefront park with a wharf and floats.

• Price Park. This is a lakefront nature park with trails.

• Marble Bay Park. This is a nature park with trails located at Meade Creek.

• Mile 77 Park. This new park marks the distance of the old CN Rail line from Victoria.

Capture the Past at the

Kaatza Station Museum & Archives Saywell Park, Lake Cowichan

Keep watercraft back from spillgates and weir No swimming near equipment Follow posted instructions when travelling through boatlock Information: Brian Houle, Manager, Environment 250-246-6236 www.catalystpaper.com

New this year is the 90th Anniversary of Canadian National Railway at Cowichan Lake display and a display celebrating the Town of Lake Cowichan 70 years since incorporation (1944 display) Logging, railway, pioneer life, general store, mining tunnel

OUTDOOR DISPLAYS

1927 Shay locomotive – 1916 wooden boxcar – 1918 wooden caboose, Diesel locomotive - speeder trailer Winter Hours - Mon. – Thurs. 10am – 4pm Summer Hours - Seven days a week 10am – 4pm

www.kaatzamuseum.ca 250-749-6142

20

Lake Days

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

May to September 2014

Yours to explore

Prepare yourself for the biggest community event of the year as this year the Lake Days theme is Country! Organizers are promising that this year’s festival will be the most exciting yet.

The Build, Bail, Sail race is back. Teams will pre-purchase material kits and have two hours to design and build a floating craft to race around a pylon on the water just behind Jakes at the Lake.

The festivities will kick off at noon, June 1st, with its most popular event; the Soap Box Derby!

Expect to see many additional racers, as interest in the event skyrocketed, forcing organizers to purchase additional racer kits. Hand-crafted racers, containing soap box enthusiasts of all ages, will race down Stone Avenue.

The events will continue at 6 p.m., Monday, June 2, with the annual Lady of the Lake Strawberry Tea at the Senoir’s Centre.

This is your chance to meet this year’s Grade 11 Lady of the Lake candidates, who are vying to represent the Cowichan Lake area throughout

STORE HOURS 7:00am to 9:00pm 7 days a week Open until 10:00pm July & August For all your needs

• Groceries • Service Deli • Produce • Fresh Bakery • Meat • Bulk Food Lottery Centre And a whole lot more!

Lake Cowichan Country Grocer 83 Cowichan Lake Road

250-749-6335

Western Canada and United States.

The Lady of the Lake Grand ball will then take place at Upper Centennial Hall, Friday, June 6, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The winning candidates will be crowned at Saywell Park at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 7, in the midst of the main festivities.

Most events will be held at Saywell Park, which is located in the middle of town, on South Shore Road. It’ll be easy to find, with a large crowd of people, a stage set up for live musicians, and a multitude of activities for families to enjoy.

Saturday’s events will kick off with a grand parade along South Shore Road, beginning at 11 a.m. Festivities will then begin taking place at Saywell Park.

This year will feature a Lumberjack Exhibition.

Live musicians, beer gardens, a community fair and and chain saw wood carving, will also last throughout the day, which will culminate in the Lake Days Dance, beginning at 8:30 p.m. The dance will be a Video Dance Party and will be held at the Cowichan Lake Sports Arena. For more information, visit the Lake Days website at cowichanlakedays.com.

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

Bay Days

May to September 2014

Yours to explore

21

The Annual Bay Days brings with it enough Family Fun Activities for everyone. Although the days events are structured as a community festival, visitors are always welcome to join the festivities. The Bay Days event will take place in August this year.

Call 250.749.4700 for more information.

Yours to explore

March Meadows Golf Club at Honeymoon Bay starts with a modest par-three first hole and ends with as challenging a finishing hole you’ll find anywhere.

Considered one of the best nine-hole courses on Vancouver Island, it is the home course of pro golfer Dawn Coe-Jones, who for the past few decades has cut out an impressive career on the Ladies Professional Golf Association tour.

March Meadows is rated one of best nine-hole golf courses on the island. It is not an overly long course, at 6,408 yards over 18 holes – playing the white tees on the front and the blue tees on the back – and 5,736 from the red tees over 18 holes, but don’t think you get off easy. You have to watch out for the many sand bunkers on this challenging course. Accuracy is the key on these rolling and treed fairways. The sixth hole, a sharp dog leg par four, is a perfect example. Sutton Creek mean-

Golf

ders through the property and comes into play on several holes, most notably the ninth.

The course, which opened in late 1970, is built on the old hay meadow of the historic farm that had been established by pioneers Henry and Edith March at the turn of the century, thus the name March Meadows.

Dawn Coe-Jones

22

May to September 2014

Yours to explore One of the busiest days of the summer happens at Arbutus Park in Youbou on August 9.

The Youbou Regatta boasts the shortest parade in the world, starting at 10:30 a.m. from the Youbou Hall to Arbutus Park, but it’s certainly one of the most enthusiastic.

Following the parade, Arbutus Park comes alive with activity.

The first splash hits the water with the Clarence Whittingham Memorial Quarter Mile Swim. A tugboat owned by Whittingham — an iron vessel for towing logs on the lake, takes the swimmers a quarter mile out and they swim back to the dock.

This is followed by kids and adult swimming races, cannonball and belly flop competitions, watermelon eating, three-on-three volleyball and canoe races.

There is a dance in the Youbou Hall that evening.

Call 250-749-6742 for more information.

Youbou Regatta

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide

May to September 2014

Lake Cowichan Gazette Visitor’s Guide The Cowichan Lake area is a well connected tourist destination, with recent upgrades to the Pacific Marine Circle Route improving matters significantly.

The Circle Route is a series of highways and roads that start at Victoria, and goes north through Mill Bay, Cobble Hill, and Duncan. The road then goes west through to the Cowichan Lake area, and then south to the coastal community of Port Renfrew.

The road then winds back east through Sooke to Victoria.

In addition to linking traveling tourists to the Cowichan Lake area from other Island tourist destinations, the Circle Route provides access to the tourist-spot-filled road out to Port Renfrew, starting near the community of Mesachie Lake, a few kilometres west of Lake Cowichan. There is signage to direct people new to the area.

But remember to gas up before you leave, as there aren’t any service stations until you reach Sooke.

KIDD’S B&B David & Beth Kidd

Circle Route Yours to explore

VANCOUVER ISLAND

Nanaimo

Pacific Marine Circle Route

Honeymoon Bay Mesachie Lake

N

Chemainus Crofton Duncan Cowichan Lake Cowichan Bay

Mill Bay Port Renfrew Jordan River Sooke

Victoria

After about 29 kilometres of traveling south of Mesachie Lake, one will reach the Harris Creek Spruce Tree, an old growth forest, with one particularly large tree singled out for tourists to view in closer detail. The big tree is circled with a wooded platform you can walk around.

There are also two well-maintained beautiful campsites next to small lakes along the road, including Lizard Lake, at 38 kilometres from Lake with Phone 250 749 7790 Mesachie 28 campsites, and Toll Free 866 749 7790 Fairy Lake, at 49 kilometres from Mesachie Lake, with 36 campsites.

518 Point Ideal Drive Logging trucks can be expected on (Box 1152) the road, so drivers Lake Cowichan, BC are cautioned to Canada V0R 2G0 watch out for them.

Recent forestry has opened up kiddsbb@shaw.ca some views of the www.kiddsbb.com various mountains,

23

increasing opportunities for wildlife viewing along the remote road.

Once one reaches the coastal community of Port Renfrew, there are a myriad of sites to enjoy. The area is world-renowned as a prime place for studying marine life, with tidal pools trapping sea life for observation.

USA Strange geophysical shapes are carved into the area coastline, with lots of photograph opportunities being provided. There are also various hiking trails and lots of ocean fishing opportunities in the area.

If one sets their travel odometre to zero as soon as one enters the road out to Port Renfrew in Mesachie Lake, the following mileage will be enough to provide simple and precise direction.

Seattle

Be aware, some active logging.

0.0 KM 8.7 KM 14.4 KM 16.0 KM 19.6 KM 29 KM 31 KM 33 KM 37.3 KM 39.5 KM 41.7 KM 43.7 KM 47.1 KM 48.5 KM 49.9 KM 54 KM 55.3 KM 55.7 KM

Signs: Circle Route Pt. Renfrew, turn left Signs: Circle Route, Pt. Renfrew, right turn.

Tree stump on the left with sign: Hillcrest Main.

Harris Creek watershed, creek on left side.

Series of very sharp switch back turns on steep down grade.

Harris Creek, huge spruce tree at left. (Must see).

Steep downhill with curves.

Narrow bridge over the narrow, deep and unique canyon of Harris Creek.

Narrow and bumpy pavement starts Sign: Nino Creek. San Juan River is left below (south).

Narrow bridge over Harris Creek.

Narrow bridge over Granite Creek.

Fish Hatchery and control gates in Granite Creek.

Fairy Lake: recreation area with camping.

Narrow bridge over Fairy Creek.

Sign: Turn right for West Coast Trail head.

Pascheedaht RV and campground on waterfront of Port of San Juan.

Cross San Juan River into Pt. Renfrew.

Lake Cowichan Fire Department

SUMMER FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Fire Safety isn’t something you can afford to take a vacation from!

“Stay Alert...Stay Safe” even when you and your family are away on a camping vacation.

• Clear the area around your campfire of all debris for at least (1) metre.

• Set up tents at least (5)meters upwind of grills and campfires.

• Keep your fire small and use it only for cooking and warmth • Don’t leave children unattended and never leave them near a campfire alone.

• Never use water to control grease fire flare ups on gas barbeques. In a fierce flare-up turn off the gas and remove the food and the grease will burn off in a few minutes.

• Make sure that your fire is out before going to bed.

• Keep a supply of water near your fire.

• Check and maintain gas connections and fume vents on camping trailers.

• Develop an escape plan and keep a small axe handy for emergency escapes.

• Use only battery operated lights in your tents. Never use matches, candles or an open flame in a tent.

• Never use gasoline or naptha (camp fuel) – it can cause an explosion.

• Never cook or smoke in your tent – it’s a fire hazard and a carbon monoxide danger.

• A fire extinguisher is a must for every camper’s equipment.

• It is also recommended a portable smoke detector be part of every holidayer’s equipment.

• If fire gets on your clothing or someone else's, remember – stop, drop and roll to smother the flames.

A little extra caution is an item well worth taking on any camping trip whether it is in the back yard or the great outdoors.

Have a great summer and enjoy Lake Cowichan.

What some people call a great vacation spot… you can call home

Call Keith, Sharon or Tracy for a look at some of the most beautiful waterfront properties on Vancouver Island!

www.ikc.ca WATERFRONT • RECREATIONAL • RESIDENTIAL

Keith Nelson

Tracy Forrest

Sharon Kelly

250-749-6660 • Toll free page 1-800-729-3246 • 145 South Shore Rd. Lake Cowichan • www.lkc.ca