Alberni Valley Guide

PORT ALBERNI • VANCOUVER ISLAND • BRITISH COLUMBIA

2011

BOSTON PIZZA WELCOMES YOU TO PORT ALBERNI WeÊre located on the way to the Pacific Rim

Restaurant & Sports Bar • Over 100 menu items including pizza, pasta, salads & sandwiches

• Spectacular mountain view patio dining • Biggest HD TV in town • FREE Wi-Fi Take Out & Delivery call

WE

250-723-2622

Or order online www.bostonpizza.com

3550 Johnston Rd. (on Highway 4) Port Alberni

Registered trademarks of Boston Pizza Royalties Limited Parternship, used under license. ©Boston Pizza International Inc. 2011.

ALBERNI VALLEY

Welcome

The spectacular Alberni Valley offers West Coast living at its best. Residents and visitors appreciate a friendly close community that has successfully combined an industrial, rural and tourist economy within a uniquely scenic Valley. The pages of our guide provide a synopsis.

Enjoy!

On the Cover

The Alberni Inlet is home to hundreds of amazing sights and sounds, and there’s no better way to see it than aboard M.V. Frances Barkley.

Lady Rose Marine Services offers opportunities to sail the Barkley Sound and the Alberni Inlet year round.

The Frances Barkley emulates the slower pace of life of yesteryear and while aboard you’ll have plenty of time to look for wildlife and enjoy the scenery, as well as make the acquaintance of your fellow passengers and the crew.

Bring your binoculars, your camera, a warm jacket and casual clothes and thoroughly enjoy your day.

The M.V. Frances Barkley was built in 1958 and launched on Nov. 7 as the M/S Rennesoy in Stavanger, Norway. Later renamed the M/S Hidle, she was commissioned to be used in the Norwegian ferry fleet operating out of Stavanger.

After she was retired, she caught the eye of Brooke George, and he decided to bring her to North America. It was midnight on Aug. 11, 1990 when they reached Port Alberni.

The proud vessel has been making regular trips up and down the Inlet ever since.

[Front cover photo by Heather Thomson]

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ................................................. Pg. 1 Visitor Information............................................... Pg. 2 Local Information & Worship Services ................ Pg. 3 Introduction.......................................................... Pg. 5 Alberni Valley’s Around the Water .............. Pg. 6 - 11 Alberni Valley Festivals & Events ................ Pg. 12 - 18 Alberni Valley History ................................. Pg. 19 - 21 Automotive Services Directory ................... Pg. 22 - 23 Alberni Valley Map.....................................Pg. 24 & 25 Alberni Valley Places to Visit .....................Pg. 26 & 27 Dining Guide ............................................... Pg. 28 - 30 Alberni Valley’s Great Outdoors ................. Pg. 31 - 35 Alberni Valley Sports ................................... Pg. 36 - 39 Alberni Valley’s Seven Wonders ................. Pg. 40 - 45 Accommodations........................................Pg. 46 & 47 Calendar of Events 2011 .................................... Pg. 48 Photos on Pg. 9, 34, 43 courtesy of Batstar Adventure Tours Photos on Pg. 18, 21, 41, 44, 46 courtesy of Alberni Valley Museum

DAVE KOSZEGI REALTOR

®

Your Port Alberni Real Estate Expert direct: 250.723.SOLD™ (7653)

fax: 250.723.5615 toll free: 1.888.246.8695 email: dave@midislandhomes.com web: midislandhomes.com davekoszegi.com office: 250.751.1223

Live, Work, Play in the Alberni Valley The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

1

Visitor

ALBERNI VALLEY Alaska

PORT ALBERNI

Queen Charlotte Islands

EMERGENCY NUMBERS: BRITISH COLUMBIA

Fire, Ambulance, Police...............................911 Crimestoppers........................... (250) 723-8477 Wild Fire Reporting ................. 1-800-663-5555

PACIFIC OCEAN

Crisis Line (Adults) .................... (250) 723-4050 Alberta

Crisis Line (Teens) ..................... (250) 723-2040

Vancouver Island

SERVICES: Vancouver Island Regional Library .......(250) 723-9511 Washington State USA

Alberni Valley Heritage Attractions ....(250) 723-2181 Canada Post ..........................................(250) 724-0211

“TAKE THIS GUIDE WITH YOU.”

The residents of the Alberni Valley are hometown proud.

Bear Tracks & Lumberjacks

Area population As of May 16, 2006

Statistics Canada census says...

City of Port Alberni: Cherry Creek: Beaver Creek: Beauforts: Sproat Lake: Long Beach: Tofino: Ucluelet: Bamfield:

17,548 1,882 2,822 476 2,027 401 1,655 1,487 303

2 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

KILDONAN

BAMFIELD

Local

ALBERNI VALLEY

FROM HERE TO THERE

(in kilometres) (1 km = approximately 0.6 miles)

From Port Alberni to: Ucluelet Tofino Qualicum Parksville Courtenay/Comox Nanaimo Victoria Campbell River Bamfield Port Hardy

96 km 122 km 45 km 50 km 106 km 84 km 195 km 151 km 60 km 390 km

ALBERNI VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2533 Port Alberni Highway, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 8P2 Ph. (250) 724-6535 Fax (250)

www.avcoc.com

724-6560

e-mail:avcoc@alberni.net

Worship Services

Anglican:

Trinity Church (Anglican & Lutheran)

BC FERRIES TO VANCOUVER ISLAND

There are frequent sailings throughout the day between either Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) and downtown Nanaimo (Central Vancouver Island), or Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Duke Point (south of Nanaimo).

Victoria, on Vancouver Island’s southern tip, is connected by frequent ferry sailings to the Mainland, and there is service as well between Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands and between Vancouver Island and points north of Vancouver on the Mainland.

Vehicle reservations ............... 1-888-223-3779 www.bcferries.com/schedules/

Lutheran:

Grace Lutheran Church

4766 Angus St. .................(250) 724-4921 4408 Redford St. ............. (250) 724-5032

Apostolic:

Trinity Church (Anglican & Lutheran)

4890 Locke Rd.................. (250) 723-7382

Non-Denominational:

Lighthouse Apostolic Church

Baptist:

Arrowsmith Baptist Church

4283 Glenside Rd. ............ (250) 724-7272

First Baptist Church

6211 Cherry Creek Rd......(250) 723-7441

Catholic:

Notre Dame Parish

4731 Burke Rd. ................ (250) 723-8912

Christian Church:

Alberni Christian Fellowship

5100 Tebo Ave. ................ (250) 723-2328

4766 Angus St. .................(250) 724-4921

Alberni Valley Gurdawara Society

4741 Montrose Ave. .........(250) 723-9112

Pentecostal: Elim Tabernacle

At the Junction of Hwy. 4 & Port Alberni Hwy.

3946 Wallace St. .............. (250) 724-3371

Presbyterian Church of Canada: Knox Presbyterian Church 4850 Regina Ave............... (250) 723-7751

Reformed Church:

Cedar Grove Reformed Church 4109 Kendall Ave. ........... (250) 723-0332 4295 8th Ave.................. (250) 720-8988 Christian Reformed Church 5033 Roger St. ................ (250) 724-1434 Church of the Nazarene:

www.avcoc.com

For more information on events & attractions

call (250) 724-6535

Gateway Community Church

Southside Community Church

2511 9th Ave.................... (250) 724-7275

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints:

4816 Compton Rd............ (250) 723-9377

Salvation Army:

4841 Redford St. .............. (250) 723-6913

Seventh Day Adventist:

4109 Kendall Ave. ...........(250) 723-6452

Sikh:

Guru Nanak Sikh Society 4144 8th Ave................... (250) 723-4483 Lathom Road Gospel Hall 4574 Lathom Rd. ............ (250) 724-0421 Khalsa Diwan Society 3558 12th Ave..................(250) 723-2390

Gospel:

Jehovah’s Witnesses:

(250) 723-7041 United Church of Canada: 5055 Maebelle Rd...... or (250) 723-7047 3747 Church St................. (250) 723-8332

Kingdom Hall

Published by A division of PostMedia Network Inc. 4918 Napier Street, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 3H5 Phone: (250) 723-8171 Fax: (250) 723-0586 e-mail: ads@avtimes.net Web: www.avtimes.net The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

3

ALBERNI VALLEY

2011

F150

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• The Most Torque • The Most Horsepower B.C.’S • The Best Fuel Economy, Getting 32 mpg T • The most Trailer Towing FASTES G GROWIN • The Best ppayload y RETAIL

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Plus Freight

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Sales Hotline Toll Free 1-877-370-5443 D#31046

B7255

4 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

or 250-724-6577

“SERVING COMMERCIAL AND PLEASURE BOATERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS” Phone: (250) 724-5766 TollFree: 1-866-724-0066 Fax: (250) 724-4054 Email: aims@shaw.ca 3149 Kingsway St. Port Alberni, B.C.

www.rodspowermarine.com

Introduction T

he Alberni Valley is a hidden wonder on Vancouver Island.

Not only is it gateway to the Clayoquot Sound and en route to the West Coast, it also contains its own gems ready to be discovered by its visitors and residents alike.

It is the Valley of opportunities.

It won’t take you long to discover just how special this Valley is. You get a hint on the road here as you travel past the beautiful Cameron Lake and through Cathedral Grove. But the best is yet to come.

The Alberni Valley is full of beautiful rolling hills and stunning mountains. It is also home to lakes, rivers and creeks that will take your breath away and give you hours of peaceful enjoyment. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, canoeing or motorized sports, there is a place for you in the Alberni Valley.

It is a special place in the Pacific Northwest, one filled with rainforests, ocean inlets and unbelievable fishing.

The Alberni Valley is also continuing to change and rediscover itself. The facilities in town offer people who live in the community and visitors everything they need from shopping opportunities to entertainment.

The Valley also offers many chances to discover its heritage, the First Nations traditions and so much more.

Now that you’ve been given a taste of what the Alberni Valley offers, dig a little deeper and you’ll fall in love with every corner of this exciting, diversified community.

Ultimate Fishing Town The Alberni Valley has always fought hard to maintain its claim to fame as the Salmon Capital of the World and the Community with a Heart, but now it has something else to brag about.

In 2010, Port Alberni was declared the World Fishing Network’s Ultimate Fishing Town. With the support of the community behind them, a committee organized an online voting campaign and beat out communities across the country to the title. Come and see why it is well deserved.

OPERATING ON THE COAST

Sailing the Barkley Sound and the Alberni Inlet M.V. Frances Barkley

Sechart Lodge

M.V. Frances Barkley

SAILINGS

Year Round • Bamfield: Tues., Thurs., Sat.

Additional Summer Schedule:

Ucluelet/Broken Group: Mon., Wed., Fri. June to Sept.

Bamfield & Broken Group: Sundays - July to August All departures 8:00 a.m. from Port Alberni’s Argyle Pier

KAYAK RENTALS • CHARTERS LODGING & MEALS AVAILABLE AT SECHART LODGE IN BARKLEY SOUND OPTIONAL WATER TAXI SERVICE TO BARKLEY SOUND POINTS FROM TOQUART BAY

FOR ALL YOUR SHOPPING NEEDS • Pharmacy • Grocery • Photo Services • Cosmetics & more…

3717 10th Avenue AMPLE PARKING SPACE

250-723-7387

Associate owner Elijah Ssemaluulu

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8AM – 10PM

Phone: (250) 723-8313 Toll Free: April to September

1-800-663-7192 (For Reservations) Email: ladyrosemarine@telus.net Visit our website:

www.ladyrosemarine.com Rates & Schedules subject to change without notice notice.

P.O. Box 188, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 7M7

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

5

ALBERNI VALLEY The waters of the West Coast

will be the backdrop for the 2011 Pulling Together Canoe Journey this summer.

The epic canoe trip will kick off at the Tin Wis Resort in Tofino on July 1 with a send off for participants, the trip will culminate at Clutesi Haven Marina on July 8 with a celebratory feast.

The event began in 2001, taking a group of RCMP, West Vancouver Police and the Vancouver Police through First Nation communities by means of canoe trip from Yale to Gibsons. Each year since, a new route is paddled by different police agencies and partner organizations, connecting youth and elders of the region.

Although different each time, a common theme is re-enforced by visits to remote villages along the way, where participants meet with residents, share stories and bridge cultures.

The West Coast journey is unlike any other. Paddling in the Fisheries and Oceans canoe, Sturgeon Warrior, along with about 25 other canoes from Ahousaht, Huu-ay-aht and Hupacasath, the route will take on vast, rough waters of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, they will make a stop at the Broken Island Group and the Huu-ay-aht

village of Anacla. Narrow gravel roads will take the group to their overnight destinations by land. Along the way, participants, including local RCMP and aboriginal youth, will visit elders and dignitaries, presenting them with special blankets adorned with crests of all partnering agencies. The blankets, as well as participant T-shirts will display the theme, “Wa-alth-shi-a-tlin” which is Nuu-Chah-Nulth meaning “We are going home.”

Hundreds are expected to gather at each stop to celebrate and support the crew along the epic journey. For more information, visit www.pullingtogether.ca.

HARBOUR

Scoop

Ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, hot dogs, hamburgers.

Located next to Turtle Island Fish & Chips

Harbour Quay At the Foot of Argyle Street

Specialty Coffee House at the Harbour Quay • Light Lunches • Espresso Coffee • Tea 5440 Argyle Street 250-723-2211 ONE BITE AND YOU’RE HOOKED

22 Different Toppings

Soup • Snacks • Beverages • Light Lunches • Ice Cream Novelties • MINI DONUTS HOURS June to Sept. 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Oct. to May 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Harbour Quay (Foot of Argyle St)

250-723-2213

www.thedonutshop.net

IS

D LAN

hip C d n a F ish TUR TLE

s

VOTED BEST FISH & CHIPS

EAT IN OR TAKE OUT

COD • HALIBUT • SALMON • SHRIMP • OYSTERS • PRAWNS Located at Harbour Quay

6 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

250-723-4227

& Gift Shop

www.thesugarshak.ca

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Around the Water On the water

With no shortage of water in the Valley, it seems only natural that the community has a number of water sport groups. This includes a canoe club, senior, ladies and mixed dragon boaters and the Sproat Lake Watersports Association, to name a few. Every summer, many people enjoy tubing down the Stamp River. Guided and unguided tours are available through Stamp River Tubing, as well as rentals and transportation.

For more information, contact 250-724-6003.

Wild watersports Last summer a new company came to Port Alberni offering an opportunity to take advantage of the wild wind that blows into the harbour. Wild West Watersports offers kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, stand up paddling and more right in Port Alberni. They installed a kite launch facility in the harbour, and last year people tested it out, and it was a hit. If you are experienced this company will offer you a chance to challenge yourself, and if you want to try something for the first time they offer lessons and gear.

For more information, call 250-037-9463 or 250-589-8719, or check them out at www.wildwestwatersports.com.

BLUE DOOR Café HOME OF THE

ALL DAY

Photo by Wayne Creelman

BREAKFAST! FRESH CUT FRIES

Serving Port Alberni Since 1969 Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

ENTRANCE HARBOUR QUAY

250-723-8811

The BEST Browsing Shop in Port Alberni!

• Souvenirs • T-Shirts • Sterling Silver Jewelry • Native Themed Gift Ware • Much Much More!

HOURS: MON. to SAT.

Summer 9:30 a.m. to Dusk.

Winter 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

250-724-2271 #16-54 16-5440 Argyle St.

(Har (Harbour Quay) Port Alberni, A BC V 1T7 V9Y

GALLERY Original Art & Jewelry t taco s shop

LLAMA & ALPACA (250)723-8226 Judy Walker

250-724-3243

AND MORE AFFORDABLE PRICES

www.janicesheehan.com

Kiosk # 13 Harbour Quay

ECUADOR

• Jackets sweaters & ponchos • 100% cotton blouses, shirts, skirts & dresses

MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN FASHIONS 5417 Argyle St. 778-421-2292 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide 7

ALBERNI VALLEY Kayaking and canoeing Harbour and lake lend themselves beautifully to Port Alberni canoe and kayak excursions.

The harbour (Alberni Inlet) has an intriguing mix of industry and wildlife. Eagles soar overhead while tugboats herd logs and the cormorants stand guard.

Often you’ll catch sight of a bear or two along the shoreline and the seals play hide and seek with you as you paddle. Gulls accompany the large and small fishing boats that you’re sure to see heading in and out of port. If you are really lucky, you may even catch sight of a grey whale or a pod of killer whales.

The bird sanctuary up the inlet means a chance to see some special flora and fauna as well.

The harbour provides for a fairly sheltered paddling experience, with wind and tide playing a role as well.

At Sproat Lake you can paddle out to the petroglyphs and then tour around the coves and inlets admiring the pastoral harmony of the lakeside homes. Maybe you’ll have a chance

to check out the giant Coulsons Mars Water Bombers on the lake too. Other canoe and kayak opportunities can be had on Dixon, Great Central and Cameron Lakes.

Port Alberni is the gateway for exciting Clayoquot Sound and Broken Group Island sea kayak trips as well. A trip down the Alberni Inlet aboard the M.V. Frances Barkley is always a fun way to spend the day.

Uptown Village

Classic & Vintage APPLIANCES

• Vitamins • Minerals • Herbs • Books • Organic Grains and Specialty Flours • Sports Supplements • Grooming Products

OVER

40

IN-STOCK!

•PARTS • SALES •SERVICE www.houseofservice.net

HOUSE OF SERVICE 3155-1st., Ave. Port Alberni

FOR ALL YOUR SMOKING NEEDS! • Magazines • Cuban Cigars • Newspapers • Novelties & Gifts • Lottery Tickets • Tobacco • Novels - ‘The Top 20’ 3013 3rd Ave.

723-2447

250-723-2951

2955-3rd Avenue

Monday to Saturday 9:30 – 5:30 Sunday 12 - 4 2935 - 3rd. Ave. the top of 3rd Ave. Port Alberni

250-723-2812

250-724-6644 Bikes & Scooters!

RENTALS, SALES & REPAIRS!

3094 3rd. Ave., PORT ALBERNI Rem Remember R ememb ember ber us ffirst irst ffor or all ll y your our ou Insurance needs. Safe driving!

www.MacDermott.com

8 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

250-723-9929

Around the Water

Setting Sail FISHERMAN’S HARBOUR is a commercial and recreational docking facility at 3140 Harbour Rd., with a sanitation pump Contact Jayne Braithwaite at 250-723-2533.

HARBOUR QUAY MARINA is located right in the harbour and has berths for 110 vessels with power and water available at all. Keyed security entry. Launching is at the municipal boat launch. Showers, washroom and laundry facilities. Call 250-7231413 for more information.

CLUTESI HAVEN MARINA has a four-lane boat launching ramp and overnight moorage. Everything the boating and fishing enthusiast might need is available within walking distance from the marina. Call manager Mike J. Carter at 250-724-6837.

CHINA CREEK MARINA and campground is a full-service facility accessible by boat as well as by road, and features moorage, launching, fuel, cook-out shelters, lots of parking and space for camping. There are also sites for picnicking and group outings. Located on tidal water, 14 kilometers southwest of Port Alberni. Call assistant manager Doug Flegel at 250-723-9812.

MUNICIPAL BOAT LAUNCH is a free single-lane boat launch located at the south side of Harbour Quay, off Harbour Road.

Day parking for boat and trailer is at the free public parking lot off Kingsway Avenue. This facility is not suitable for larger boats.

OPEN AT 8 AM DAILY

• Fishing Gear & Tackle • Fly Tying • Camping • Archery Supplies • Outdoor Clothing • Bait • Licences • Boots • Shooting Sports 5069 Johnston Rd., • Rod Shop Port Alberni

(250) 723-1172 #600 - 2980 N. Island Hwy., Nanaimo (250) 758-7726 #3 - 2720 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay

(250)

334-2007

www.gonefishinshop.com The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

9

ALBERNI VALLEY Ultimate Fishing Town Port Alberni took the 2010 title of WFN’s Ultimate Fishing Town through a contest organized by the World Fishing Network. The win was a result of astounding community support and netted the city $25,000 in cash, which was used for a salmon enhancement project. Already on the map as the Salmon Capital of the World, the win was a boost to the local fishing industry. Along with the cash, Port Alberni will be featured in a 30-minute television show and residents can claim bragging rights for living in a true fishing paradise.

Fish the Inlet and beyond For anglers, Port Alberni is sport fishing central, providing year-round fishing opportunities in both salt and fresh water.

The Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound are home to four species of Pacific salmon, three of which (sockeye, chinook and coho) are prized game fish. The Barkley Sound chinook and coho fisheries kick off the fishing season in the late spring, and for those

adventurous enough to go off-shore, there are halibut ranging up to 200 pounds just waiting to be caught.

Robertson Creek chinook and coho begin to enter the Upper Alberni Inlet in about mid-August, ramping up just in time for the annual Port Alberni Salmon Festival, which takes place on Labour Day weekend. The Salmon Derby attracts sport fishermen from around the world, and offers prizes totalling more than $100,000.

The area is also home to many lakes, rivers and streams that boast great results for anglers of all age and skill levels.

Where Children W C Learn to Love and Love to Learn!

Visit our new website: www.jp2nd.ca Preschool to grade 8 Mini-Miracles Family Centre birth to 5 years

UL II CATHOLIC SCHOOL JOHN PAUL

4006-8th Avenue, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 4S4 10 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

250-723-0637

Around the Water

NAE NAESGAARD’S N A AE FARM & F

Pacific Rim Hwy. & Mary St.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK (250) 723-3622

Drop by to pose with our friendly bear.

SAVOUR STRAWBERRIES FRESH FROM OUR FIELDS, JUST PICKED VEGGIES, SWEEEEET SNACK’N PEAS & SINFULLY DELICIOUS CHERRIES! Hop on board Travel down the Alberni Inlet aboard the M.V. Frances Barkley.

This working cargo/passenger ship is a great way to see the sights along the Inlet. The vessel runs a daily schedule to remote West Coast communities, carrying supplies, groceries, mail and passengers. Kayakers and canoeists also use this service to access the Broken Island Group. It is a relaxed way to spend the day, and you never know what might cross your path along the way.

For more information on sailing times contact Lady Rose Marine Services at 1-800-663-7192 or 250-723-8313, e-mail ladyrosemarine@telus.net or stop by the office at 5425 Argyle St.

Beneath the surface B.C. is a scuba diver’s paradise and the Barkley Sound at the base of the Alberni Inlet is about as good as it gets. Not only is there a great diversity of undersea life, a number of sunken ships lie beneath the sea to explore and enjoy. It is often called the Graveyard of the Pacific. Each lost vessel has its own tale to tell.

Our Boutique offers an extensive collection of silver & fun jewelery, purses, scarves & fabulous clothing. Unique local creations & compelling ffashions ffrom exotic lands.

Shop our Garden Centre

for quality plants, entertaining garden ornaments, outdoor art & thousands of quality glazed pots.

Experience the many wonders of the Alberni Valley 3945B Johnston Rd Port Alberni V9Y 5N4 250-720-4515 www.ScottFraserMLA.com

Scott Fraser, MLA

We’re at 5681 Pacific Rim Highway, as you leave Port Alberni for the West Coast.

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

11

ALBERNI VALLEY Thunder in the Valley Hundreds of hot rods will take to the tarmac at the Eleventh Annual Thunder In The Valley drag races on Aug. 6 to 7.

Track-side, spectators will be able to watch top performing racers in six classes including Super-Pro, Pro, Modified, Street, Door Slammers and Drag Bikes.

The recent addition of a larger spectator parking lot accommodates an additional 300 to 400 vehicles.

Catch all the action at the Port Alberni Regional Airport, approximately seven kilometres west of Port Alberni.

Don’t forget your ear plugs... it’s loud.

The Thunder In The Valley Show and Shine takes place the Friday afternoon before the race at Harbour Quay.

For information, check out www.albernidragracing.com

Antique Truck Show The Antique Truck Show at the McLean Mill is a must-see for the vintage truck enthusiasts. More than 80 vehicles are expected, scattered amongst the trees and old buildings on the mill site.

Restored logging trucks, from the first small, hard rubber-tired “Whites” to the off-road monsters built to haul the old growth, will be on display. Other restored vehicles from all over Vancouver Island and the Pacific Northwest will be present.

Also on site, the steam sawmill will be operating. There will be an old-time

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12 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

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Festivals & Events

logging demonstration daily with the Steam Donkey powering a high-lead yarding operation and a heelboom loader. There will be a truck parade around the site and a toy truck playground for the children. Some radiocontrolled model equipment will be on demonstration during the weekend.

Old-time logging artist, Michael Dean will be in attendance, as well as Comox logging historian, Richard Mackie.

The steam train will be operating all weekend, with departures for the mill from the Port Alberni station at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The show runs from September 3 to 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On September 5, trucks will probably start leaving in the mid-afternoon.

For information and registration, call Bob East at 250-724-4135 or Dave Hooper at 250-724-5509.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT IN THE VALLEY • Crab Wraps • Steak & Lobster • Coconut Prawns TUES. TO SAT. 11 T0 9 PM

DIN DINE NE IIN N OR TAKE OUT 5251 Argyle St., Port Alberni

• Daily Lunch Specials • Dinner Specials • Licensed, Draft Beer.

STEPS AWAY FROM HARBOUR QUAY!

ALBERNI VALLEY’S “TUBE WITH A VIEW”

Bus Transportation Tube Rentals (778) 421-1172

Safety Instruction Included

Proper Footwear Recommended d

Phone (250) 730-0982 E-mail: djturgeon@shaw.ca owner/operator Denis Turgeon

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

13

ALBERNI VALLEY

Salmon Festival For a great time, great fishing and good eating, nothing beats Port Alberni’s Salmon Festival, which takes place every year on Labour Day weekend at Clutesi Haven Marina. Fishers come from all over Vancouver Island and beyond to compete for cash prizes and the coveted largest derby catch award and prize. During Salmon Fest, the entire city celebrates with fireworks, a massive salmon barbecue, beer gardens, karaoke contests, raffles, a kid’s bullhead derby and the always popular KUU-US Crisis Line’s celebrity dunk tank. For more information, contact 250-723-8165.

Ladies’ Day Out • Hot Stone Therapy • Shiatsu Massage • Aroma-Massage • Thai Massage • Reexology • Indian Head Massage CST, CR, CAM, (NHPCA) 1.mcgovern@shaw.ca

3645 Fowlie Cres., Port Alberni, B.C. Tel. 250-724-0137

STORE HOURS HOURS:

Nice Things To Wear

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14 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

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Festivals & Events

Fall Fair The 2011 Alberni District Fall Fair runs Sept. 8 to 11, 2011 at Glenwood Centre in the Echo area. Events at the fair include live entertainment, carnival rides and games, logger sports, yummy food, exhibits and displays, animals and, of course, the parade. For more information and updates regarding the 2011 fair, visit www.albernifair.com.

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

15

ALBERNI VALLEY

PORT ALBERNI

SAFEWAY

The Toy Run The annual parade of motorcycles takes place Sept. 17 to 18, 2011 beginning at noon. They leave from Little Qualicum Falls heading to the Fall Fair grounds. By 1 p.m., events at Glenwood Centre begin, including a kids carnival, adult bike games and a show and shine. The celebration continues with a biker dance Saturday evening and ends with a pancake breakfast and poker run on Sunday.

For more information, contact chairman Greg Philpott at 250-723-7463 or gphilpott@shaw.ca.

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16 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

email dave@daveralla.com www.daveralla.com

Festivals & Events Winter Wonderland This is a magical event that sees the Alberni Valley Multiplex transformed into a wonderful Christmas ice palace. It is always a favourite way to get into the Christmas spirit, no matter how old you are. Various community groups sponsor public skates. In 2011, Winter Wonderland runs from Dec. 11 to 23 and Dec. 26. For more information, or to volunteer with the spectacular set-up, call 250-720-2803.

Our Town Kids of all ages will enjoy the events involved in Our Town during the summer months. Last year marked the successful 25th anniversary.

Organizers have some special events planned for this year. See the guide’s Calendar of Events for dates and places. For more information, contact Echo Centre at 250-723-2181.

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

17

ALBERNI VALLEY Make Our Past Your Present Heritage comes alive in the Port Alberni. This community is proud to share its past with visitors.

Make our past your present at the Alberni Valley Museum, Maritime Discovery Centre, Historic Port Alberni Railway Station and Steam Train excursion and the McLean Mill National Historic Site.

Special exhibit, Summer 2011: “Hisheenqu’as, Living Together: Alberni and the Birth of the B.C. Forest Industry.” Learn about life in Port Alberni in 1860. The first export mill in what would become the Province of British Columbia was built here.

The immigrant population, who viewed the area as a resource producing hinterland, came into contact with First Nations utilizing resources as part of a traditional, socially integrated occupation of the land. This exhibit explores the history of this sawmill and the birth of the industry that would later dominate the provincial economy, as well as a never before presented explanation of the Tseshaht system of hereditary privileges governing ownership and utilization of resources and privileges.

Watch for news of special events as Port Alberni prepares for its centennial in 2012.

With Alberni Heritage you’ll … …find out why the Alberni Valley Museum has become a favourite stop for so many. Discover the history and culture of this west coast community through unique collections – beautiful baskets woven over the past 200 years by First Nations women, folk art that ranges from whimsical dolls made of found materials, to models that tell a story and fine Ukrainian handwork and the history of the West Coast Trail and the Trans Pacific telegraph line. … soak in the sites and sounds of a busy west coast port at the Maritime Discovery Centre. You may find a deep sea freighter loading – right up close. Learn about lighthouses, life saving, tsunamis and more maritime-related topics through our Heritage Lookouts, exhibits and special programs. … follow the call of the steam whistle to the restored 1912 Port Alberni Railway Station. Enjoy the ambiance of a bygone age, check out exhibits on rail history on the island or purchase unique gifts from the shop. Board the train here for your adventure to the McLean Mill, an operating historic steam sawmill.

PORT ALBERNI

CENTENNIAL 100 YEARS Carmoor Block c.1914 PN06373

1912-2012

… all aboard the Alberni Pacific Railway’s 1929 Baldwin ex-logging locomotive for a 35 minute leisurely trip through town and forest, over trestles and by farms. Local folks are on hand to point out the sites on your journey to the historic R.B. McLean lumber camp and sawmill. … step back in time at the McLean Mill National Historic Site. Watch the steam operated sawmill cut logs into lumber just like they did in 1926 and meet the men who keep the old mill running.

Characters from the Tin Pants Theatre Troupe bring the site to life as you explore the original camp buildings and check out the original logging and milling equipment. Once a week you can see an old-time logging demo with a steam donkey and heel boom.

The Alberni Valley Museum Year round: Tue.- Sat., 10 - 5; Thursday 10 - 8 Maritime Discovery Centre July, August: daily 10 - 5 McLean Mill National Historic Site Spring season May 14 Summer season July 2 – Sept. 6 (call for schedules and details) Steam Train Excursion July and August (call for reservations and details) Information: 250-723-1376 www.alberniheritage.com

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Toll free: 1-800-815-8007 Tel/Fax: (250) 723-9405 Email: alberni-inn@shaw.ca

History

Brief look back The city was named for Don Pedro Alberni, an army captain with the Spanish troops garrisoned on the west coast of Vancouver Island in 1790.

Through the years, Port Alberni has survived on a strong forest industry. It was also home to one of British Columbia’s busiest ports. Settlers first arrived in the area in the early 1880s. They cleared the land and started farming.

Once there were two Port Alberni was once two small towns. Alberni, incorporated in 1913, had the flavour and pace of a farming community. Its industrial neighbour Port Alberni, incorporated in 1912, was situated on the deep-sea port.

Rivalry flourished between the two communities and early attempts at amalgamation failed. After a devastating tsunami washed through the area in 1964, a spirit of co-operation was born that eventually helped facilitate amalgamation of the twin cities in 1967.

At the time the population was 18,538, making it the fifth largest city in British Columbia. Today the city and region has a population of approximately 35,000.

Walking through history A walking tour has been set up to introduce visitors and residents to the rich history of the city. The walk takes about 40 minutes and leads you from the Alberni Harbour Quay to the Rollin Arts Centre and many points in between. There are 25 stops along the way which include everything from old original homes and businesses to Stamp Harbour, the Banfield Lifeboat, the Historic Port Alberni Railway Station and old churches. For more information or to get a copy of the Historical Walking Tour contact the Alberni Valley Museum at 4255 Wallace St. or call 250-723-2181.

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

19

ALBERNI VALLEY Centennial Year The centennial year of the incorporation of the City of Port Alberni takes place in 2012, and the Centennial Committee is making sure the celebrations give accolades to the 100 years of community spirit.

Present day Port Alberni was originally two communities and did not become one until amalgamation in 1967. The original community built on the Somass River was called Alberni and a newer settlement, built along the harbour, was called Port Alberni. Port Alberni was incorporated first in March of 1912,

and Alberni followed when incorporated in January of 1913.

Ken Rutherford, committee chair, is excited to see plans coming together.

“It will be a great opportunity for past-residents of Port Alberni to come home and reacquaint with old friends and family,” he said. “I encourage everyone to celebrate our centennial and hope to see both locals and tourists at our homecoming in August 2012.”

Celebrations and acknowlegements will take place over the course of the year from 2012 to 2013 in recognition of both

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History centennial anniversaries. Commemorative banners will decorate city streets and a main centennial banner, a recreation of the one from 1912, will be strung across Argyle Street.

The main event, the Homecoming, will be an opportunity to take in a variety of events over three days from Aug. 4 to 6, 2012. The majority of activities will revolve around Bob Dailey Stadium, the Alberni Valley Multiplex, Glenwood Centre and the Alberni Athletic Hall. Organizers hope that both current Valley residents and those who once lived here will take the opportunity to participate in various celebrations. Plans include sectioning the infield of the stadium into grids for each school in the Alberni school district, making it easy to find school mates from years gone by. There will be meet and greets, family events, entertainment, dances and more.

Another main hub for events will be the train station near Harbour Quay as the year will also mark the 100th anniversary of the first train into Port Alberni and also the 100th birthday of the renown Two-Spot steam locomotive.

Throughout the year, centennial memorabilia such as pins, T-shirts and hats will be available around town for purchase.

A Then & Now photo book documenting the city’s landmarks from the early 1900s to today will also be a popular keepsake

McLean Mill National Historic Site, Alberni Valley Museum Photo to cherish. Those celebrating births and centennial birthdays in the year 2012 will also receive special certificates and pins.

The business community and proprietors of historical buildings will be asked to involve employees to mark the notable occasion. Local school students will be encouraged to research their school’s history and that of the schools that are no longer here.

Plans will be continually updated through the media and a Port Alberni Centennial Facebook page. Families or organizations planning an event for 2012 or 2013 are urged to incorporate the centennial theme and to provide details to the Centennial Committee for inclusion in the Calendar of Events.

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Mechanic Shop Automotive Phone (250) 724-5154

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3550 Johnston Rd., Port Alberni

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BEFORE YOUR EYES!

(250) 723-4669 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide 23

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

25

ALBERNI VALLEY Farmer’s Market The recently constructed Spirit Square is home of the Port Alberni Farmer’s Market. The newly expanded space includes a larger retail area for fresh produce and unique crafts and features a covered walkway to the pier.

Shoppers will find everything from produce and plants to smoked meats, eggs, emu products, breads, soaps and unique crafts. And with nearby coffee shops available, you can enjoy a hot cup of something after making the rounds. Much of the produce is hand picked the same day as the market and the eggs laid within the last 24 hours, and they go very quickly, according to market participants. The purpose of this market is to allow local producers to sell their certified commodities direct to the public. The Farmer’s Market runs year-round 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays at Harbour Quay at the foot of Argyle Street.

Go Shopping There are a number of distinct clusters of business venues in Port Alberni. Be sure to access shops and services at the unique Harbour Quay, at the foot of Argyle Street adjacent to our deep sea port, Uptown, accessed by Third Avenue in the south end of town, 10th Avenue Plaza, in central Port Alberni, Southgate Shopping Centre, in lower north Port Alberni, Pacific Rim Shopping Centre, at the north east entrance to town and Adelaide Shopping Centre, in north Port Alberni.

Hatchery tours Watch for the sign about 18 kilometers west of Port Alberni for the Robertson Creek Fish Hatchery. This interesting place to visit is host to numerous education programs and also holds an open house every year during the peak of the chinook salmon egg-take. The hatchery produces millions of chinook and coho salmon and steelhead trout each year. Open seven days a week until 4 p.m. For tours and information, call 250-724-6521.

Around the Arts

26 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Port Alberni is not only a Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, but also the home of many artists, from painters and sculptors to actors and singers. The Rollin Art Centre, a 1914 house located in the City of Port Alberni, is home to a fine arts gallery, a gift shop, classroom, office and storage facilities. Their gardens are a showpiece and provide a popular venue for weddings.

In the summertime, visitors to the Alberni Valley will want to participate in the centre’s Teas on the Terrace. Rollin Art Centre is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at 3061 Eighth Ave. For more information on events, visit their website www.portalberniarts.com or call 250-724-3412.

Places to Visit In 2010, the Arrowsmith Rotary Club established a five-year plan to showcase Argyle Street as a Rotary Arts District. It was was kicked off in the spring with the hanging of 35 street banners painted by local residents of all ages.

Every year, the Capitol Theatre and Portal Players – a local group of talented thespians – mount entertaining and successful productions. The Capitol Theatre, located on Argyle Street in the heart of town, hosts both local productions and shows from out of town. It’s a great way to spend the evening. For more information, visit www.atthecapitol.org.

Port Alberni’s Community Arts Council has available an Artist Studio Guide, a brochure that identifies the location, medium and hours of operation of local artists studios and galleries open to the public. The guide features 21 artists, including painters, jewelry makers and a myriad other artisans that reside in the community. More information on this wonderful resource is available from the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce and Rollin Art Centre.

The Alberni Valley Museum presents the cultural heritage of this unique Island community through its collections of artifacts and historic photographs. This local gem, located at Echo Centre on Wallace Street, is considered one of the finest community museums in British Columbia.

Ahtsik Native Art Gallery (7133A Pacific Rim Hwy.) features the best art of the first people of the west coast of Vancouver Island, the Nuu-chah-nulth. Stop in and take in traditional and contemporary arts by a diverse group of creators who are known internationally. The changing collection ranges from carved jewelry to wall panels, photography and head dresses.

A new lounge and dance hall opened this year in the recently renovated heritage building that used to first serve the Methodist, then United and finally The Salvation Army churches.

Char’s Landing, located at 4815 Argyle St., in the centre of the Rotary Arts District, is a multi-purpose venue, catering to both locals and tourists alike. Dances and special events are held throughout the year in the spacious ballroom upstairs and the lower portion has been converted into boarding rooms to rent by the day or week. Evening drop-ins are held nightly for community talent, including musicians, comedians, authors, as well as classic movie nights. Check www.charslanding.com for an updated list of events.

Alberni District Co-op Serving the Valley since 1928 2 Locations to Serve You!

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27

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250-723-8119 250-723-4343 28 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

FAMILY RESTAURANT

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Monday-Saturday 6:30 am-9:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am-9:00 pm

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• 3355 Johnston Road 250-723-7438

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Pacifi P ific Rim Ri Shopping Sh i Centre C (250) 720-0062 201-3555 Johnston Road, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 8K2 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

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ALBERNI VALLEY Bike Trails Galore

The Great Outdoors

If you like to experience your outdoors in a more radical way or just sweetly from the seat of a bicycle, the Alberni Valley has a lot to offer.

Endless variety, stunning scenery and light traffic contribute to making this one great cycling destination.

Beginners and young families appreciate some paved paths and gentle, flat rural routes.

Farmland, waterways and lush forests border some of these rides, with mountain vistas above. When you like to give your muscles a bit of a hilly workout, there are a number of rural roads to try.

Offroaders enjoy a world class gem, the 25-kilometre Log Train Trail. This old railway grade takes you through lush West Coast forests, over gushing creeks and into some of the most stunning views of the Valley. It’s accessible at various points.

For some more extreme cycling, challenge yourself with a wild network of downhill racing routes at the east end of town. The trails, ramps and jumps are awesome. On top of that there is a never ending system of logging roads and trails that will keep you exploring on your bike for hours on end. Some local trail maps can be found on the Port Alberni Cycling Club website at www.pacyclers.com.

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

31

ALBERNI VALLEY Take a hike For the nature enthusiast, Port Alberni offers a wide variety of walking and hiking opportunities with plenty of scenery and beautiful pathways. For more information and detailed maps of all the local trails, pick up a copy of the Alberni Valley Trail Guide at one of the local bookstores or the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce. There is also a new map of Valley trails on the City of Port Alberni website at www.portalberni.ca.

Log Train Trail The Log Train Trail is a historic trail and is a major feature in the history of the forest industry in the Alberni Valley. It runs for 25 km along the foot of the Beaufort Range and into the city, following the grade of a former logging railroad that operated until 1953. The north end of the trail runs 22 kms while the south section is 3 kms. The trail is accessible at various points, making it suitable for short nature walks as well.

Kitsuksis Dike Walking Path The Kitsuksis Dike is an easy-access paved walkway following both sides of Kitsuksis Creek. With an elevation of only 20 metres, it is rated as an easy walk, coming in at a length of 2.2 km. Kitsuksis Dike also has a picnic area, a water park and playground. In the fall, black bears are often seen foraging for salmon carcasses on the opposite bank of the Somass River.

Rogers Creek Nature Trail Although it is rated as an easy trail, Rogers Creek Trail becomes less well defined further along its length and has several short sections requiring short scrambles. The trail is approximately three kilometres long.

The Look-out Behind Coombs Country Candy at the entrance to town is a gravel road access to the look-out, providing a bird’s eye view of Port Alberni. Access is from the junction of Lacy Lake and Export Road. Interwoven are a number of trails popular among hikers and downhill mountain bikers. Continuing beyond the look-out, the main road leads to Lacy Lake and the trails get steeper.

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The trails at Robertson Creek Fish Hatchery are also rated easy and leave the hatchery following the bank of the Stamp River.

While the upper trail runs southward to Great Central Lake, the lower one runs northwards towards where it meets with Ash River. The trails have minimal to no elevation gain, and can be found at the hatchery, which is approximately an hour from the Visitor’s Information Centre. The upper trail is two kilometres while the lower trail runs a kilometre.

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The Great Outdoors Zipline

If you seek adventure look no further than WestCoast Wild Zipline Adventures.

Professional guides will take you on a breathtaking zipline experience over a beautiful river canyon and through forest trails.

Daily tours depart at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. from their site that is in Ha’uukmin Trial Park and is accessed from Highway 4 , roughly halfway between Port Alberni and Tofino.

The six ziplines take you through beautiful Kennedy River canyon, linked by old-growth rain forest paths. At the Grand Opening ceremony in 2010, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation elder Levi Martin performed a traditional blessing as eagle down was scattered over the river.

WestCoast Wild Adventures is a Ucluelet-based adventure company that offers sight-seeing tours from a floatplane and incredible zipline tours near Clayoquot Plateau Provincial Park.

Seven dollars from each zipline tour cost goes towards the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation Salmon Habitat Enhancement and Restoration.

For more information go to www.wcwild.com.

Sproat Lake Look-out For the more experienced trail hiker, there’s the Sproat Lake Look-out, which can be accessed 20 minutes outside of Port Alberni. The trail length runs 5.4 kms while the elevation gain is 120 metres. Estimated time to complete the look-out is five hours. The trail follows the road up past the gate to the T intersection with Branch 31. The view includes the Beauforts, Mount Arrowsmith and Mount Klitsa. High above there are mountainous hikes and climbs to be enjoyed here. Excursions vary from short and easy right through to challenging and technical. Contact the Outdoors Club at 250-724-4535 for information, or pick up a trail guide from the Chamber of Commerce. www.gtvintageparlour.com • www.adornatelier.com

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

33

ALBERNI VALLEY High Above There are mountainous hikes and climbs to be enjoyed here. Excursions vary from short and easy right through to challenging and technical. Contact the Outdoors Club at 250724-4535 for information or pick up a trail guide from the Chamber of Commerce.

The Alberni Valley is surrounded by various peaks and ranges. To the east is beautiful Mount Arrowsmith, featured on the B.C.’s 25-cent coin minted for the Centennial. Mount Arrowsmith is a gorgeous sight that can be captured from

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various locations in town, but the mountain, like most neighbouring peaks, also offers its slopes to adventure. To name a few, the Beaufort Mountain Range borders the Valley to the north and farther off to the west can be seen the distinctive, snowy slopes of Mounts Klitsa and Nahmint.

Whether you climb for the exercise, the views and vistas, the terrific natural surroundings or even to pause and reflect over some of the historic plane crash sites in the area, you’re sure to be rewarded.

Check out the falls

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34 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Della Falls is not the only one in the Valley. Stamp Falls Provincial Park is vast, encompassing 327 hectares of forests, rivers and waterfalls. This gorgeous provincial park – about a 25-minute drive from Port Alberni following Beaver Creek Road off Highway 4 (River Road) – is ideal for viewing salmon.

The park also boasts a two-kilometre hiking trail leading to the Stamp River.

Of course, where there are large numbers of salmon there will be bears. Salmon is fatty and nutrient rich, a perfect snack for hungry black bears bulking up for hibernation. Visitors are asked to use caution when bear watching, and keep their pets leashed at all times.

The Great Outdoors Ancient stone etchings

The prehistoric petroglyph etchings in the rock above Sproat Lake illustrates the area’s native culture. These remarkable remnants of the past can be seen in Sproat Lake Provincial Park, just a short walk along the trail from the beach. The park also has a campground, picnic area and a boat launch.

Gentle in nature Signs of nature are never far away in the Alberni Valley. The Island’s rather diminutive deer are less timid than the larger mule deer of the province’s interior regions. You may see them grazing city boulevards and backyards. Canada’s largest waterfowl, the trumpeter swan, arrives at the J.V. Cline Sanctuary in November and remains until March, to the delight of avid bird watchers from around the world. But they are not alone. In fact, hundreds of bird species are attracted to this section of the Somass Estuary, which was purchased by Ducks Unlimited as part of its campaign to establish waterfowl reserves along the entire length of the Baja-to-Alaska Pacific Flyway. Alberni Valley maps have several suggested routes marked for this park located on the far side of the Somass River.

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

35

ALBERNI VALLEY The Alberni Valley has just about anything you could be looking for in the world of sports. The self-proclaimed Island sporting capital, S’Port Alberni is home to Echo Aquatic and Fitness Centre. It has six sand-based turf fields that are well maintained throughout the season and home to the Valley’s many soccer, rugby and field hockey teams. There are two equestrian show rings and a 64 stall-horse barn, and the city’s equestrian community holds events in dressage and show jumping. Glenwood Centre can accommodate almost any sporting event on its 14,000 sq. ft. floor.

When the city’s second Alberni Athletic Hall, built in 1958, burned down on May 14, 2009, the community rallied together to raise funds for the construction of a new hall. The result came 18 months later with the official opening in November 2010. The 16,500 square foot multi-purpose building houses a high-tech scoreboard, indoor archery range, change rooms, as well as a spacious upper lounge and full kitchen. The gym is representative of the Valley’s forest industry, with floors of maple, walls of cedar and alder and bleachers made of hemlock, cedar and fir.

The Alberni Valley is a hockey town, with two NHL-size ice sheets. The main side seats 1,850 in the stands and an additional 1,400 on the main floor. Next door there’s room for 200 in the bleachers and benches.

Baseball is also popular, and Port Alberni has a 650-seat lighted softball diamond, as well as a lighted one for baseball.

In addition to that, there are more than a dozen softball diamonds, two slow pitch diamonds and four little league diamonds.

Port Alberni also has a 600-seat lighted stadium for track and field, a shooting range, an all-weather field and clubhouse, lots of places to enjoy water sports, and Mount Arrowsmith offers challenging hikes and winter activities like snowshoeing and skiing.

In addition to offering almost every sport imaginable, the community also plays host to a number of well-known sporting

• Wills • Mortgages • Estate Planning • Land Transactions

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dorothy@dclarkstone.ca NOTARY PUBLIC (250) 723-9747 4679 Elizabeth St., Port Alberni 36 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

events. The Valley welcomed the world as it hosted the 2008/09 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge. This brought up-and-coming hockey players from all over the globe to the community, and thousands of eager hockey fans followed. It was a huge success and left a legacy in the community for years to come.

Wrestling Every year close to 600 wrestlers arrive in Port Alberni to compete in the Alberni Invitational. This is a popular event that draws wrestlers of all ages to the community in the beginning of February. Through the years the Alberni Valley has produced some remarkable wrestlers as a result of a strong club that goes back more than three decades – among them, 2008 Olympic athlete Travis Cross. Now a firefighter in the community, this 29-year-old wrestler competed on a

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Sports

national stage up until his retirement last year and represented Canada at the Beijing Games. He was also chosen to light the caldron when the Olympic Torch Relay came to Port Alberni in November 2009. As well, Ashley McManus placed fourth at the 2010 Commonwealth Games for Scotland, fifth at the World Senior Championships for Great Britain and third at the World Junior Championships for Canada. McManus is the National Canadian Junior Champion. If you are interested in wrestling, check out the website at www.alberniwrestling.ca.

Golf The many natural wonders of the Alberni Valley aren’t limited to the woods and the water.

Golfing enthusiasts from all over the world have commented on the unique golfing experience they enjoy when playing the interesting par 70 Alberni Golf Club. This 6,232 yard (blue tees) gem boasts its own wildlife habitat. On any given day a golfer may encounter eagles, bears, deer, raccoons, herons, geese or spawning salmon when they are running. It’s no wonder this 81-year-old facility was selected to host the 2011 B.C. Women’s Amateur/Mid-Amateur Provincial Championship this June 27 to July 1. Join us in the Alberni Valley and watch some of the very best women amateur golfers in Canada at this marquee event.

Former Canadian Amateur Champ Jackie Little may be there to participate but for certain she will join her husband and golf pro Pat Little to tend the other little gem of a golfing venue in the Alberni Valley, and their knowledge will enhance your visit while you enjoy the natural surroundings. The Hollies is a golfer-friendly, relaxing nine-hole executive par three course ideally suited to the novice or those just looking to enjoy playing their game at a leisurely pace. No tee times are required, come for the golf, the visit, the golf talk or just to relax.

And the best part is the green fees. Among the most competitive on Vancouver Island, The Hollies and the Alberni Golf Club offer up great value and a uniquely great golfing experience.

Home of the 2011 BC Women’s Amateur/Mid Amateur Provincial Championship

Covered Driving Range Fully stocked pro shop

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Come enjoy the 80 Year Old Par 70 Alberni Valley Golf Club Featuring towering cedars, salmon bearing streams, glorious views and 18 picturesque holes.

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6449 Cherry Creek Rd., Port Alberni, BC, V9Y 8T3

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

37

ALBERNI VALLEY Basketball The youth in the Valley love to play basketball. As a result the local high school, the Alberni District Secondary School, has become well known for its annual Totem Tournament held in January. It is a great chance for players and cheerleaders to strut their stuff with home-court advantage. This year marked the 56th year of the tournament and the first year ever that the senior girls teams were invited to play. The Alberni Armada girls made history by taking home the gold.

In 2010 the Valley also once again hosted the Junior All Native Basketball Championship in March. This year it moved to Penticton, but it was such a success that the city has supported a local team’s bid to host the 2012 event.

Hockey Last year Port Alberni hosted its first Female Hockey Festival.

The free full-day event showcased everything from exhibits, demonstrations and on-ice skills sessions, all in an effort to give girls and women of all ages and abilities the chance to experience the sport. A pre-event media challenge had employees from the Alberni Valley Times, 93.3 The Peak FM, Chek News and professional hockey players take to the ice in a friendly hockey game. The community now has a 16 member female league and six teams.

Port Alberni has been home to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs since 2002. Every year this hockey organization brings in promising hockey players to compete at the Junior A level.

Not only does this offer some great hockey games for fans to enjoy, it also gives young hockey players mentors in their own community. The players can often be seen participating in community events, supported by their strong booster club. This year the Dogs advanced to the playoffs but were eliminated in the first round by the Langley Chiefs. For more information on the team, visit www.albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Alberni Valley Ministries CHURCH

4841 Redford Street, Port Alberni Sunday Service at 10:30am

THRIFT STORE

2984 3rd Avenue, Port Alberni Hours Mon. – Sat. 9:30am – 5pm

COMMUNITY MINISTRIES & FOOD BANK

4841 Redford Street, Port Alberni Mon. – Thurs. 10am - 12 noon Tues. & Thurs. 1am – 4pm 38 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Sports

The AV Bulldogs are joined on the ice by a great number of strong amateur hockey teams. This includes a number of levels of minor hockey as well as many recreational adult teams.

Whether you are a child strapping on skates for the first time or an old pro more suited for the old-timer’s league, there’s a place for you to play. For more information on Alberni Valley Minor Hockey go to www.avmha.com.

Biking

weightlifting, badminton, volleyball, baseball, track and field, billiards, swimming, bowling, Special Olympics, boxing, softball, curling, soccer, dancing, skating, equine clubs, running, fencing, rugby, field hockey, motorcross racing, football, martial arts, gymnastics, lawn bowling, horseshoes and lacrosse. If you are curious about any of these sports pick up a copy of the Port Alberni Parks and Recreation Department’s Healthy Living Guide or go to www.portalberni.ca.

Lawn Bowling

Port Alberni is home to hundreds of amazing trails for biking, and many riders here are part of the Port Alberni Cycling Club and/or Alberni Valley Riders. Both clubs hold a number of races in the community during the season. PACC kicks it off in April with weekly Twoonie Races open to all levels of mountain bikers. For more information and event listings check out www.pacyclers.com or www.ozziescycle.com.

These are just a few of the many sporting activities that go on in the Valley every year. Other sports available include archery,

ndly e i r F

• Fresh Produce • Full Service Deli

helpful staf f!

• In-Store bakery • Bulk Foods • Full Service Meat Department

Port Alberni always has a very active lawn bowling club, but this year they have a little bit extra on their plate.

The club will be hosting the Canadian Senior Men’s and Ladies’ Triples Lawn Bowling Championships. The event is expected to bring lawn bowlers from across the country and is an exciting opportunity to see lawn bowling at its best. The championships take place from Sept. 8 to 14, at the club in Port Alberni. For more information call 250-723-2780 or e-mail jvankooten@shaw.ca.

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The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

39

ALBERNI VALLEY The Alberni Valley has so many amazing things to check out, but there are seven that you really don’t want to miss. They are the seven wonders of the Alberni Valley.

1) Cathedral Grove As you head west on the highway to Port Alberni, you will go through one of Canada’s top attractions – Cathedral Grove rainforest, officially named MacMillan Provincial Park.

Motorists can drive through a stand of old-growth forest – one of the few such places left on the West Coast of North America.

The Grove has undergone some changes through the years. Back in the early 1980s, it was featured in the Hollywood prehistoric epic, Quest For Fire. Since then, the park has been under siege from logging operations in adjacent timberlands, and a massive windstorm on New Year’s Eve in 1997 thinned out some of the mighty hemlocks. But it still stands tall as it has for thousands of years as a place to explore an old-growth forest and see all that lives under its canopy.

2) Alberni Pacific Railway and McLean Mill National Historic Site Port Alberni has a unique way to get around town. From the Harbour Quay downtown you can jump on a 1929 Baldwin logging locomotive at the restored Canada Pacific Railway station. The ride will take you to McLean Mill, Canada’s only steam-powered sawmill and a National Historic Site. Since the 1900s loggers and millworkers took the same route through the dense forest to work every shift. Once you are at the historic site, you can experience GATEWAY TO THE PACIFIC RIM LOOK FOR US WEST OF PORT ALBERNI

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SERVING YOU SINCE 1979

40 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Seven Wonders

life as it would have been so many years ago – truly a unique experience. Who knows, you may even witness a train robbery along the way.

3) Bears on the boardwalk Most people never get a chance to see a bear outside of a zoo, but in the Alberni Valley it is a common occurrence.

During the late summer and early fall, black bears can be spotted catching salmon from many viewpoints around town. Visitors often get a special treat when a mother bear brings along her cubs and they play on the rocks

while mom hunts. From the harbourside boardwalks around town you can get a perfect vantage point and can watch an amazing animal in its natural habitat.

MOTEL & R.V. CAMPGROUND

More than just Pizza!

Delivery starts at 10am daily

Group rates, senior discounts, 1 & 2 bedroom suites, AC/Kitchenettes, wireless internet, onsite laundry facilities, restaurant, full service RV Campground

250-724-0121 • 1-888-724-0121 www.redfordmotel.ca

3723 Redford St., Port Alberni, BC

PIZZA • PASTA • RIBS • CHICKEN • SALADS & MORE!

Sandwiches d i h &S Salads l d Deliciously Fresh Toasted™ sandwiches made the way you want!

250-724-4522

2 locations in Port Alberni

www.redfordmotel.ca

250-723-8119 250-723-4343

or 250-724-3231 Online menu

10th Ave., Plaza

4539 Gertrude St., Southgate Centre

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

41

ALBERNI VALLEY hikers from the head of Great Central Lake to the base of a natural wonder in the region.

Much of the 16-kilometre trail follows an old roadbed left behind from logging and mining that took place many decades ago. During the sevenhour hike, tourists and visitors will walk along suspension bridges, through first and second-growth forests and past rivers and lakes before finally arriving at their destination and experiencing the power and beauty of the falls.

5) Mars Water Bombers Folks in the Alberni Valley take an enormous amount of pride

4) Della Falls The Alberni Valley is proud to be home to the tallest waterfalls in North America. Della Falls, at 440 m (1,450 feet) cascades from Della Lake to the old growth forest at its feet. The Della Falls Trail, near Port Alberni, leads

THE SOMASS MOTEL • Air conditioned • Laundromat • Pool • Internet Access Our riverside location, relaxing atmospere, and wonderful beds ensure our guests a comfortable stay in Port Alberni.

Tel: 250.724.3236 Toll Free: 1.800.927.2217 5279 River Road, Port Alberni, BC

Visit our website for details & to reserve on line Web: www.somass-motel.ca

42 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Hwy. 4 West of Port Alberni

BOOK ONLINE AT

www.wcwild.com 1-877-992-Wild (9453) Flights Only: 250-726-8668

wild@ukeecable.net

Seven Wonders in the Mars Water Bombers, now owned locally by the Coulson Group. The giant Second World War aircrafts have been a fixture on Sproat Lake since the early 1960s, becoming one of the Valley’s most renowned, yet unofficial, tourist attractions. For years, canoeists and kayakers have been able to get up close to the legendary flying boats. Since the takeover of Flying Tankers Ltd. by the Coulson Group in 2007, the bomber base has become an official tourist destination in the summer, when the aircraft are operating, with a gift shop and tours of the facility. If you’re visiting the Alberni Valley and you hear a deep-throated thunder overhead, take a look up and see history on the wing. The massive planes were built in the 1940s by Howard Hughes. They hold 27 tonnes of water and are still active in the fight against forest fires in Canada and abroad.

SPECIALIZING IN GERMAN AND EUROPEAN FOOD

LUNCH Served Mon.-Fri. 11 am - 2 p.m.

DINNER Served Daily 5 pm - Closing Reservations Recommended:

250-724-4242 3035 - 4th Avenue, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 2B8 www.littlebavariarestaurant.com

Phone/Fax:

250.724.9916 For reservations call

1.800.636.9916 • Air conditioning • Wireless Internet email: riverside_motel@shaw.ca www.albernivalleyriversidemotel.com

The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

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ALBERNI VALLEY 6) The Log Train Trail The Log Train Trail was originally part of the Bainbridge Mill rail-logging operation, and by 1925 the railroad extended along the Beaufort Range for about 7.2 kms. When the mill closed in 1927, the railroad was abandoned.

In 1937, H.R. MacMillan purchased the Alberni Pacific Lumber Company and John D. Rockefeller’s timer rights in the Ash River Valley. To access the timber, a 25-kilometre logging railroad was built from south of Polly’s Point on Alberni Inlet to the Ash Valley, part of the old Bainbridge Mill grade was utilized. The trestle that was built to cross Rogers Creek was 286 meters in length. This was the mainline for MacMillan’s rail - logging until it was abandoned in 1953, when logging trucks became the

preferred method of transport. During its heyday, the railroad saw two shipments of logs per day taken from the Ash Valley to the log dump at Polly’s Point. Today, considerable debris and some uprights are all that can be seen of the large trestle. Old timbers are currently being used as steps up Rogers Creek ravine.

In 1990 the trail system was officially opened.

The Log Train Trail is a historic trail and is a major feature in the history of the forest industry in the Alberni Valley.

It runs for 25 kms along the foot of the Beaufort Range and into the city, following the grade of a former logging railroad that operated until 1953. The north end of the Visit Port Alberni’s Lovely

Rollin Art Centre &G Gardens Changing Exhibit Gallery ★ Heritage Gardens ★ Summer Tea on the Terrace ★ Gift shop with locally made arts & crafts

OPEN YEAR ROUND Tues. to Sat. 11-4

Corner of 8th & Argyle (250) 724-3412

44 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Seven Wonders trail runs 22 kms while the south section is three kilometres. The trail is accessible at various points, making it suitable for short nature walks as well.

7) The Whaler’s Canoe The Alberni Valley is home to two Nuuchah-nulth First Nations, the Hupacasath and the Tseshaht. They have a strong history in the Valley and are an important part of the community. These two bands shaped the Alberni Valley before the European settlers arrived, and that history is respected and shared in the community.

In the Valley, a symbol of their strength and tradition stands at the Victoria Quay. The Nuu-chah-nulth Whalers’ Canoe sculpture was for years an iconic fixture at Victoria’s Royal B.C. Museum. Now it remains in Port Alberni beside the two welcoming figures at the base of Johnston Road.

In addition to these seven attractions, the Alberni Valley is also home to many other hidden gems. While you are visiting make sure to check out Stamp River Falls, travel down the Inlet on the M.V. Frances Barkley or go deep sea diving in one of the many shipwrecks off the coast.

If history is your passion, check out the artifacts at the museum or head to Sproat Lake to see the prehistoric petroglyphs.

It doesn’t end there, so read on. For more information check out www.albernivalleytourism.com or stop by the Alberni Valley Visitor’s Centre at 2533 Port Alberni Hwy. (1-866-724-9177).

ONE STOP SHOPPING

PORT ALBERNI

• Camping Supplies • R.V. & Automotive Supplies • We Sell Ice • A Full Assortment of Hardware, Houseware & Leisure Goods • Full-Service Automotive Centre • Fresh & Saltwater Fishing Licences

Locally owned and operated by J&K Oliver Enterprises Inc.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 1-877-720-tire

• PROPANE FILLING • SANI DUMP STATION

• 250-720-0085 3550 JOHNSTON RD., PORT ALBERNI The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

45

Laundry Facilities

Some

Banquet/Meeting

Pets Allowed

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Packages Available

Wheelchair Acc.

Exercise Room

Pool/Sauna/Whirlpool

Lounge/Pub

Restaurant

Kitchenettes

# of Rooms

Credit Cards

Price Range

ACCOMMODATION

DESCRIPTION

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Walking distance to the hospital, sports fields, Echo Centre, Bob Dailey Stadium and AV Multiplex. Recently renovated rooms with kitchenettes. Air cond. 1, 2 & 3 bedroom suites.

HOTELS, MOTELS A-1 Alberni Inn

3805 Redford St., Port Alberni, B.C. Toll Free: 1-800-815-8007 tel/Fax: (250) 723-9405 email: alberni-inn@shaw.ca

Seasonal

Visa, MC, 28 AMEX

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Best Western Barclay

www.bestwesternbarclay.com Email: info@bestwesternbarclay.com (250) 724-7171 Toll Free: 1-800-563-6590

Seasonal

Howard Johnson Hotel Port Alberni

4850 Beaver Creek Rd., Port Alberni, B.C. Ph. 250 724-2900 Fax: 250-724-2924

Seasonal

www.hojoalberni.com email: info@hojoalberni.com

Redford Motel & RV Campground

3723 Redford St., Port Alberni, B.C. Toll Free 1-888-724-0121 • 250-724-0121 Fax 250-723-8867

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Visa, MC, 86 AMEX Visa, MC, AMEX 42

Seasonal

Visa, MC, Interac

Seasonal $69-$89

Visa, MC, 11 AMEX Interac

$60$125

Visa, MC, 14 AMEX

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Port Alberni’s largest full facility hotel. 86 newly renovated rooms, 5 meeting rooms with 250 capacity, 160 capacity for banquets, catering services available. Group, tour & team rates available.

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Riverside Motel

Somass Motel & RV

5279 River Rd., Port Alberni, BC (250) 724-3236 Toll Free: 1-800-927-2217 email: info@somass-motel.ca www.somass-motel.ca

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Redford Motel is your one stop destination for all your accommodation, dining and RV needs. With 34 rooms, ranging from kitchenettes to multiple beds per room, daily rates to weekly rates and large group discounts, we are sure you will find the one that suites your needs. Our award winning, onsite restaurant will be sure to meet your culinary needs. There is ample parking, free wireless internet, laundry facility, air conditioned rooms and much more.

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Home away from home. Quiet river location; separate bedrooms; kitchenettes; suites; complimentary coffee & tea; remote TVs; coin laundry; barbecue.

We have rates that will accommodate you with comfort & care. Wireless internet.

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Located on Pacific Rim highway. Air conditioned 1 & 2 bedroom kitchen suites or regular rooms with fridge & microwave. Free internet access, BBQ, laundromat, seasonal outdoor pool, boat parking, fish freezer, 1 block to marina and boat launch. Saturday Markets.

www.redfordmotel.ca • info@redfordmotel.ca

5065 Roger Street, Port Alberni, BC (250) 724-9916 Toll Free: 1-800-636-9916 riverside_motel@shaw.ca

We welcome you to enjoy excellent accommodations, great food & good times. Proudly 100% non-smoking. Featuring air-conditioned rooms, all with mini-fridge & microwave, wireless internet, colour TV’s & in room coffee stations. Pet rooms available. Group, corporate & senior rates available.

Liquor, Beer & Wine Store. Located very close to marina.

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Port Alberni celebrates its history every day through the spring and summer at the McLean Mill National Historic Site, middle, with the help of the Western Vancouver Island Industrial Heritage Society, which loans out its old logging equipment, far left, and volunteers like Hugh Grist, right, who run the steam train between the mill and the train station located at the Harbour Quay.

[Photo courtesy of Alberni Valley Museum]

www.charslanding.com

SAFE, RELIABLE SERVICE

GUESTHOUSE, LOUNGE & MEETING PLACE enjoy your stay at this 100 year old piece of heritage in the heart of Port Alberni’s downtown Arts District 5 blocks from Harbour Quay, Lady Rose dock & Steam Train station to McLean Mill

email: info@charslanding.com (778) 421-2427 or (250) 730-1636 4815 Argyle St., Port Alberni, BC V9Y 1V9

46 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Servicing Port Alberni

250-724-4494 1-800-665-4244

DAILY FLIGHTS SCHEDULED, SERVING PORT ALBERNI, QUALICUM BEACH, VANCOUVER & TEXADA ISLAND

Laundry Facilities

Banquet/Meeting

Packages Available

Pets Allowed

Wheelchair Acc.

Exercise Room

Pool/Sauna/Whirlpool

Lounge/Pub

Restaurant

Kitchenettes

# of Rooms

Credit Cards

Price Range

ACCOMMODATION

DESCRIPTION

BED & BREAKFASTS, GUESTHOUSES Cedar Wood Lodge Bed & Breakfast Inn 5895 River Rd. (Pacific Rim Hwy 4) (250) 724-6800 Fax: (250) 724-6887 www.cedarwood.bc.ca email: info@cedarwood.bc.ca

CANADA SELECT

Seasonal Visa, MC Interac AMEX

Edelweiss Bed & Breakfast

2610-12th Ave., Port Alberni, BC (250) 723-5940 Toll Free: 1-877-723-5940 Email: edeltrud@shaw.ca www.edelweissbb.ca

$65 $85

Visa, MC

Seasonal

Visa, MC

Seasonal $50-$125

Cash, Cheque, ATM on site

$25/bed/night Including all taxes

Credit Cards & Debit No, CASH & TRAVELLERS CHEQUES ONLY

Hummingbird Guest House & Charters

5769 River Road, Port Alberni Tel (250) 720-2111 Toll Free 1-888-720-2114 email: cheryl@hummingbirdguesthouse.com www.hummingbirdguesthouse.com

Char’s Landing Guest House

Port Alberni, BC V9Y 1V9 (778) 421-2427 or (250) 730-1636 www.charslanding.com email: info@charslanding.com

Fat Salmon Backpackers

3250 Third Avenue, Port Alberni, V9Y 4E1 Ph: 250-723-6924, cell: 250-735-6924 Email address: info@fatsalmonbackpackers.com

Enjoy 2.5 acres of heritage gardens, 8 well-appointed guestrooms, private en-suite bathrooms with shower/massage tubs. Queen beds with goosedown duvets, fireplaces, a games room & 2 libraries. Wireless & high-speed Internet. Bistro garden view dining room, extended continental buffet included. Conference & reception facilities are available for groups up to 25. Deluxe air conditioning, 30” HD flat screen tv’s.

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Spacious air-conditioned suites with private baths. Complimentary pick-up at ‘Lady Rose’ dock or bus depot.

Jacuzzi

3

4 Suites

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A blissful 2 acre yard & garden oasis that reminds you that life can indeed be this good. Your family will feel right at home in heavenly king & queen beds. Unwind with a leisurely soak in the hot tub. Share & plan your travels over a BBQ on the deck. All the while, eagerly anticipating Wayne's secret recipe "guest book acclaimed" breakfasts. Games room, wireless hi-speed internet, guided fishing charters.

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Make yourself at home in this unique 100 year old former church.

Deep in the town’s Arts District. Across the street from the Theatres and within 5 blocks of the Art Gallery, Grocery Store, Shopping, Restaurants, Lady Rose dock, Steam Train station, Farmer’s Market and Harbour Quay overlooking the canal. Guests enjoy a private room with full en-suite bath while sharing the kitchen, laundry, dining and living rooms with their fellow adventurers. Coffee shop/cocktail lounge and dance/music hall upstairs. Free WiFi.

3, En-suite bath

38 beds in 6 rooms

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Fat Salmon Backpacker’s Hostel is friendly and knowledgable budget accommodation for all travelers, located in the heart of Uptown, Port Alberni, a 5-minute walk from the Lady Rose dock. As seen in international guidebooks Lonely Planet, Reizen, and La Routard, the Fat Salmon surpasses guest expectation time and again. Boasting 38 beds in dormitories, we also have a fully-equipped kitchen for guest use, BBQs, an outside deck, free Internet, payphone, knowledgeable tourist information, and off-street parking in a relaxed, safe, and social environment. Conveniently located within walking distance to restaurants, banks, pubs, cafes, grocery stores, thrift shops, gas stations, a car rental, and the beautiful Harbour Quay.

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CAMPGROUNDS & COTTAGES Arrowvale Campground & Cottages 5955 Hector Rd., Port Alberni, BC (250) 723-7948

Macktush Creek Campground Located on the Alberni Inlet (250) 735-1352

$26-$29 $135-$150 (cottages) $22

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Visa, MC sites 2 cott.

Ph. 250.720.3657 Cell 250.720.1972

http://members.shaw.ca/riverviewcabin email: riverviewcabin@shaw.ca

$100-$120

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130 sites

Riverview Cabin 6524 Withers Rd., Port Alberni, BC

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Macktush Creek Campground

250-735-1352 250 50 735 135 1352

Rugged camping at it’s Best located on the Alberni Inlet •T Tents • RV’ RV’s • T Trailers il Showers • Boat ramps • Store

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68 acre farm beside Somass River. Tours available.

Swimming, fishing, hiking. Pets allowed in campground but not in cottages. Free showers.

Coin laundry. Open year round. Coffee Bar. Rugged camping at it’s best. Beautiful treed sites or the sunny bowl area. No hook-ups but water and sewer is on site. Boat launches are free to campers. Hiking, quading, fishing or just relax and enjoy the beauty.

One bedroom self catering cabin situated on 30 secluded acres with direct access to prime spot for fall fishing on the river Somass/Stamp. Only 5 minutes from Clutesi Haven Marina. Fully fitted Kitchen, TV, Internet.

Sleeps 2. No Pets. Ideal place for touring or staying in the Alberni Valley.

Alberni District Fall Fair

Grow it and Show it at the Fair!

Promoting Local Agriculture for 66 Years

September S b 88, 9 9, 10 0 & 11 111, 1 2011 2 1

ANNUAL PIG ROAST AUGUST 27/11 with the DIE HARD FISH DERBY AUGUST 28/11

This years theme is “Pyjama Party”

www.albernifair.com The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

47

May 2011

Calendar of Events 2011

July 16-17 - 9th Annual Antique Tractor & Sept. 11 & 17 - Fall Steam Special, www.alberniheritage.com May 8- Mother’s Day Wine Steam Train Ride, Engine Show, www.alberniheritage.com July 19 - Our Town 6:30-8:30 p.m. Williamson Sept. 17-18 - Port Alberni Toy Run, Chase and Warren Estate Winery. www.chaseandwarren.ca May 8 - Island Cup Series, XC Mountain Bike Race, Alberni Valley Riders 250-724-6556 or www.ozziescycle.com May 14 - McLean Mill Spring Season, www. alberniheritage.com or 250-723-1376 May 15 - Island Cup Series, DH Mountain Bike Race, Alberni Valley Riders 250-724-6556 or www.ozziescycle.com

Park Theme: Pirates and Peter Pan July 23 - Teddy Bear Picnic, www.alberniheritage.com July 29-31 - Forest Fest, www.alberniheritage.com

August 2011

August 2 - Our Town 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Gyro/Recreation Park Theme: Paradise Park June 2011 August 6-7 - Thunder in the Valley, June 5-11 - 26th Annual Senior’s Week - Call www.albernidragracing.com Echo Centre 250-723-2181 for info.

August 7 - Beaufort Gang Train Robbery, www.alberniheritage.com June 5 - Sproat Lake cycling marathon, Alberni Valley Riders 250-724-6556 August 9 - Starlight Movie Night, Bob Dailey Stadium at dusk June 11 - Spring Steam Special June 17-18 - Canadian Cancer Society Relay August 16 - Our Town 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Harbour Quay Theme: Kites at the Quay For Life, www.cancer.ca August 20 - Starlight Express (evening run) June 18 - Father’s Day Wine Steam Train White Hats vs Black Hats, Beaufort gang.

Ride, Chase and Warren Estate Winery. www.alberniheritage.com www.chaseandwarren.ca August 27-28 - Mactush Creek June 19 - Beaufort Gang Train Robbery Campground Pig Roast and Die Hard Fish Father’s Day Special Derby, Sylvia 250-735-1352 June 25 - Summer Steam Special, August 28 - Beaufort Gang Train Robbery, www.alberniheritage.com www.alberniheritage.com

http://members.shaw.ca/toyrun/ Sept. 24 - Wood and Wine Steam Train, www.alberniheritage.com

October 2011

October 1 - Italian Wine Steam Train, www. alberniheritage.com October 2 - Cyclocross Race, Alberni Valley Riders, 250-724-6556 October 8 - Fall Wine Steam Train, www.alberniheritage.com October 21-22 - Oktoberfest, www.island.net/~europa/ or 250-723-6935 October 22 & 29 - McLean Mill Halloween Spooktacular, www.alberniheritage.com

December 2011

December 2-18 McLean Mill Christmas Village & Festival of Christmas Lights www.alberniheritage.com December 3-4 - Santa Train, www.alberniheritage.com December 10 - Winter Wine Train, www.alberniheritage.com

January 2012

July 2011

September 2011

“Celebrating Our Community” - Parade at 10 a.m., followed by entertainment and food at Glenwood Centre at 10:45 a.m. 250-724-7293 July 1 - 8 - Pulling Together canoe journey, www.pullingtogether.ca July 5 - Our Town (family event) 6:30-8:30 p.m. Blair Park Theme: Farmyard Fun July 8-9 - Alberni Valley Charity Golf Classic, www.albernigolf.com July 9 - Beaufort Gang Train Robbery, www.alberniheritage.com

January 1 - Polar Bear Swim January 6-7 - ADSS Totem Tournament

Alberni Salmon Fest., www.pasalmonfest.com Sept. 3-5 - Antique Truck Show, www.alberniheritage.com Sept. 5 - Labour Day at McLean Mill (theatre, mill and train), www.alberniheritage.com Sept. 8-11 - Alberni District Fall Fair, www.albernifair.com Sept. 8-14 - Canadian Senior Men’s and Ladies Triples Lawn Bowling Championship 250-723-2780 or jvankooten@shaw.ca

February 2012

July 1 - Canada Day Parade and Celebration: Sept. 3-5 - Labour Day Weekend - Port

February 2-4 - Alberni Wrestling Invitational Tournament, https://sites.google. com/site/albernivalleywrestlingclub/

March 2012

March 3-4 - Sproat Lake Loggers Fishing Derby, Don Deforest, 250-723-3226 Rock and Gem Show Info: 250-724-2832

The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce (www.avcoc.com) continually updates a complete list of local activities & events, including specific dates. Another site we’d like to suggest if you’re seeking entertainment is (alberniheritage.com) and for live theatre, (www. atthecapitol.org). The paper mill offers tours in the summer as well, by reservation. Call (250) 724-7494.

Local News, Sports, Weather, Community Events Celebrating 65 years of serving the Alberni Valley.

48 The Alberni Valley Visitor’s Guide

Coulson Flying Tankers

Visit the World Renowned Waterbombers!

Stop by the interpretive centre to be amazed by the history and size of these impressive machines.

Gift Shop - Seasonal 9350 Bo Bomber Base Rd., West of Port Alberni www.martinmars.com JOIN US ON A HISTORICALL JOURNEY THROUGH 65 YEARS OF OPERATION.

GREAT SOUVENIRS OR PERFECT GIFTS!

Available at 4890 ., Cherry Creek Rd Coulson West ri Entrance Mon-F 9am- 2pm

JJoin the adventure as you enter into the world of Martin the Marvellous Water Bomber. Meet his ddelightful and funny friends on the fire base and learn about his fascinating history both during World War Two and in his current job as the world’s largest water scooping airplane.

PROU D TO BE LOC A L | YOUR FRESH STOR E

FULL SERVICE DELI IN-STORE BAKERY FULL SERVICE MEAT DEPARTMENT FULL SERVICE POSTAL OUTLET ORGANICALLY GROWN VEGETABLES FRESH PRODUCE BULK FOODS LOTTERY TICKET CENTRE

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FROM

8:00 a.m. to 10 p.m.

3737 - 10th Avenue, Port Alberni www.fairwaymarkets.com

VANCOUVER ISLAND OWNED & OPERATED!

250-724-1442