CLOSED: December 24 ~ Januar y 6 & Thanksgiving Day
walking tour and uncover the stunning life-sized bronze statues that bring our community to life. 169 Bridge Street, Princeton, BC | 250.295.0235 visitorinfo@princeton.ca
Keremeos
Visit the new location of the Keremeos Visitor Centre in the Recreation Centre, 311 9th Street, Keremeos, BC 250.499.5225 | visitorcentre@similkameencountry.org
Hedley (Seasonal)
The Hedley Heritage Museum provides visitor information while you step back in time and learn about the local history. 712 Daly Avenue, Hedley, BC | 250.292.8787 info@hedleymuseum.ca
Manning Park Resort (Seasonal)
Located 1 km East of Manning Park Resort on Hwy #3. Friendly staff, bathrooms, grassy area with picnic tables, interactive and informative displays of the park and history.
MORE INFORMATION…
Check official sources about travel advisories or closures from our Current Travel Information section of the website.
For trip planning, events or things to do visit our website and access our local business directory. Contact our Visitor Centres for the latest information. Sign-up for our Newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SimilkameenBC #Similkameen
Cover photo: China Ridge
Manning Park Resort
linger longer
top experiences
THE SIMILKAMEEN RIVER IS THE HEART OF OUR VALLEY.
We invite you to take your time and linger longer in the Similkameen Valley where a relaxed way of life is shared with visitors. Immerse yourself in nature as you meander this 140 km (87 mi) stretch of the western end of BC’s Crowsnest Scenic Highway 3, in southern British Columbia, from Manning Park Resort in the west to Cawston in the east.
As you drive through the valley, you’ll notice eclectic small towns, ranches and farms from seemingly eras past. Meet the locals in Princeton, Tulameen, Coalmont, Hedley, Keremeos and Cawston. Explore our rugged and rustic lands and get to know the welcoming spirit of the people who may tell you a bit about our history and our ancestors, and how we came to live in this special place.
The Similkameen Valley is the ancestral, traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx Nation, and is home to the Upper Similkameen Indian Band—the Similamix People—and the Lower Similkameen Indian Band—the Smelqmix People.
Check out our highlights list for travel inspiration and discover your favourite things to do.
1 Reconnect with yourself and nature in quiet wide-open spaces in all seasons
2 Cruise our two-lane highway with some curvy sections ideal for motorcycle touring
3 Camp, Clamp or RV at municipal or private locations, many are riverfront, on golf courses, ranches, farms and Provincial Parks
4 Spend a lazy day along the Similkameen or Tulameen Rivers, picnic, swim, paddle, or tube the iconic rivers, connecting our valley
5 Walk, Hike, Bike, the trails at Manning Park Resort and China Ridge, explore the trail systems in Coalmont, Tulameen, Princeton, Keremeos. Horses and pets welcome at select locations.
6 Explore our Provincial Parks: Manning, Allsion Lake, Otter Lake, Bromley Rock, Stemwinder, Nickel Plate, Keremeos Columns, Cathedral Park (Check with BC Parks and Cathedral Lakes Lodge for access)
7 Spot birds and animals in the wild and learn about our diverse ecosystems at the Swan Lake Nature Reserve
8 Get fishing on our 49 lakes and rivers in all four seasons and takehome rainbow and brook trout
9 Play a round of golf and enjoy the views at the “19th” hole afterwards at Princeton’s challenging 18hole course or at Twin Lakes Golf Course and St. Andrews by the Lake near Keremeos
10 Discover our storied past in museums, gardens, heritage sites and trails, and a ghost town
Tulameen River
Hedley Museum Attrtactions Wildlife, Princeton
Motorcycle touring
Lightning Lake, Manning Park
11 Visit galleries showcasing local artists and check out town murals
12 Walk the Bronze Sculpture tour through Princeton town centre, known as Bronze Statue Capital of Canada
13 Take a virtual reality tour “kayaking” the Similkameen River with a spectacular river view of the Red Ochre at the Princeton Visitor Centre in the Virtual Reality Room
14 Taste the Similkameen Terroir in Keremeos and Cawston through world class wines, craft spirits, ciders and fruit sodas, visiting tasting rooms, on your own, with a tour, at a café, restaurant, music and tasting events, picnic, or while staying at an orchard, vineyard or our only distillery
15 Shop for fresh fruits and veggies in both Keremeos, Fruit Stand Capital of Canada and Cawston, Organic Farming Capital of Canada
16 Book a guided tour via vehicle, helicopter or ATV
17 Stop at local bistros, fruit stands, and markets for locally grown and hand made culinary delights including fresh baked goods, sweet and savoury, authentic Greek, Indian and Thai food
18 Picnic, camp, eat, shop, take in a tour or event at the historic Grist Mill and Gardens, BC’s oldest operating flour mill, located in Keremeos
19 In winter explore the trails at Manning Park Resort, China Ridge or Nickel Plate Nordic Centre. Snowshoe, Nordic ski or check out the slopes and tube park at Manning Park Resort. Winter camping anyone?
Take in an event. With a variety of events from local favourites to multi-community adventures check out the options from the events page on our website.
• Spring is Rodeo season in the Similkameen
• Wine crawls, cider, outdoor dinners, live music and farm to table culinary options await
• Multi community events include the Meadowlark Festival and the Fat Dog 150
• Who doesn’t love a good car show?
• We host the Similkameen Sizzle, Canada’s only Hot Pepper Festival
• Check out our Artisan Markets Join us…
Princeton Artisan Market
rugged rustic real
Rugged, rustic and real…our region appeals to those who like to both relax in nature and get outside and explore. There’s a pioneering spirit here. It leads to countless opportunities for personal discovery, and connection with nature.
The raw beauty of the Similkameen River, the lifeblood of the Valley, is a reminder of nature’s power. Flowing down from the Cascade Mountains, marvel at how the River carved the spectacular valley over 200 million years ago. Today, the diverse valley offers craggy cliffs, meadows of mountain flowers, forests, lush orchards and rows of vineyards that has been home to Indigenous peoples for millennia.
Getting Here
From west to east, you will experience ever changing landscapes as you travel from Manning Park Resort to Princeton and on through to Hedley you will be captivated by rugged mountains, forests and rushing rivers. Through Keremeos, Cawston the sweeping valley opens to lush orchards, vineyards and ranch lands and finally cacti and sagebrush as you approach the Highway 97 junction at Osoyoos.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or just wanting to kick back and relax (or both)—you pick the pace.
The best way to explore is to follow the Similkameen River which runs through the heart of our valley via Crowsnest Hwy 3 parallel to the Washington State US border. From the western headwaters in Manning Park Resort through to Cawston, the Similkameen River connects our communities, towns and villages that dot our countryside.
Located 4 hours from the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), you can access the Crowsnest Hwy 3 from Vancouver, BC via Hwy 1 to Hope, BC. From Jasper, AB, drive west on Hwy 16 to Hwy 5 to Merritt. Continue south on Hwy 5A to Princeton. From Calgary, AB take Hwy 1 to Highway 97, on to Hwy 3A from Penticton or Hwy 3 from the south end of Alberta. From the US, we are 4 hours from Spokane, WA and 6 hours from Seattle, WA. Enter the valley at the junction of Hwy 97 and Hwy 3 at the border crossing at Osoyoos or Nighthawk where the Similkameen River ventures south into Washington.
Electric Car Charging
You’ll find many charging stations throughout the Similkameen Valley. Recharge yourself at the same time by exploring our town centres, visitor centres or wineries while you are stopped.
British Columbia
Similkameen River
A Rich History That Continues to Evolve
Our history is steeped in discovery and exploration. Learn of the legends of the Similkameen Indigenous peoples, walk in the footsteps of our pioneers, fur traders and prospectors and hear tales of the Granite Creek Gold Rush in Coalmont, the Nickle Plate mine in Hedley, and the days of the Hudson Bay Brigade. Learn more at our local museums throughout the valley where local historians share their knowledge. Visit the Hedley Heritage Museum and discover our roots at the Princeton Museum and the South Similkameen Museum in Keremeos.
Create your own legends filled with grit and adventure along the wilderness trails of China Ridge, Manning Park Resort, Cathedral Park, and the Hudson Bay Company Brigade Trail.
Stay With Us Year Round
Linger longer, stay at a quaint inn, guest house, B&B, suite, motel in town, heritage site, ranch, orchard, vineyard and even a distillery. For camping, glamping & RVing, options range from remote tenting spots to fully serviced sites. Many locations are river view, riverfront, on acreage, on a golf course, near towns and trails or choose from 7 Provincial Parks with campgrounds.
STAY WITH US
Indigenous culture
Orofino Vineyards, Cawston
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES from mountain to river
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AWAITS IN OUR VALLEY.
Whether you’re on two wheels or four, on horseback or on foot, in hip-waders or a kayak, bring your hiking boots, your mountain bikes, your water wings, your fishing rods, your sunglasses…Choose from hiking and biking our trails, floating the river, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, motorcycle touring, golf, and fishing the valley.
Walk, Hike, Bike, Ride
Bring along your friends and family for adventures in the great outdoors and explore nature in every season. Discover 55 km (34 mi) of uncrowded trails accessible by foot, mountain bike, horse, cross-country ski, or snowshoe.
Outdoor Activities
Manning Park
China Ridge
Manning Park
Princeton
Similkameen River
Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing
One of the real treasures of our valley is its wildlife. You might spot bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mule deer, eagles, elk, moose and bears. Princeton’s Swan Lake Nature Reserve offers visitors 15 km (9 mi) of marked trails, two bird blinds, a small lake surrounded by a riparian zone, and an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife. Explore the richness of our diverse ecosystem and view the protected grasslands of the Similkameen.
Stay a little longer to sample everything we have to offer Welcome to the Similkameen Valley!
8:00AM
8:00AM
Motorcycle Touring
Cruise our two-lane highway and take in the valley views and eclectic townships along the way. Stop in at Bromley Rock for a refreshing dip in the river to cool off on a warm day.
Golf
Choose from three 18-hole courses designed for all levels of golfers. Just east of town, the scenic Princeton Golf Club is nestled along the mountains. Land an eagle at the Twin Lakes Golf Course, north of Keremeos on Hwy 3A or St. Andrews by the Lake. All offer well-stocked pro shops, power and pull carts, and club rentals. Hit the 19th hole at their licensed patio/restaurants. Stay and play from the full-service RV parks available Princeton and Twin Lakes or choose from 6 rooms available at St. Andrews.
Princeton Golf Club
Princeton Golf Club Hwy
Four Season Fishing
Freshwater fishing is easily accessible from many sites along the Crowsnest Highway 3, from Princeton to Cawston and along Highways 3a and 5a. Discover some of the best spots for trout, mountain whitefish and the elusive west slope cutthroat. Cast away on the many lakes and rivers of the Similkameen which have been luring anglers for decades.
• The secluded Chain, Osprey, or Link lakes along the Princeton-Summerland backroad – All great spots to drop a line and bask in the glories of the great outdoors while waiting for that first bite.
• Ashnola, Tulameen, or Similkameen Rivers – Feel the thrill of casting for rainbow trout or mountain whitefish in the fast currents and deep-water pools.
• Otter Lake in Tulameen – A local favourite, and the largest lake in the Similkameen, it’s where you can dream of landing the “big one.”
• McKenzie, McCaffrey, Dry Lakes and Allison Lake, all teeming with rainbow trout. In cattle country the fish are always biting.
• Yellow Lake on 3A – A popular spot year-round, you can fish from a boat, a float, a dock or in winter through an ice hole for kokanee, rainbow and brook trout.
Enjoy Ice fishing on most Princeton lakes from midDecember through to March. Yellow Lake has a slightly shorter season. It’s mountain country so be prepared with the right gear, and you’ll have a whopper of a story to take home.
Tulameen River
Similkameen River, Princeton
Ice fishing. Yellow Lake, Hwy 3A, Near Kaledan
Alleyne Lake
Princeton & Area Fishing Map
KEY PROVINCIAL PARKS
Manning Park Resort
Looking for a fun-filled way to spend the day? E.C. Manning Provincial Park is a vast 83,671 hectares of wilderness. Why not float your boat on Lightning Lake, the Boathouse offers Kayak, Canoe, and Paddle Board Rentals. Explore the variety of stunning hiking trails, head out mountain biking, or enjoy a leisurely walk amongst the wildflowers. In winter look no further for your ticket to fresh powder and Winter Adventures. Hit the slopes and carve your day away with epic views and chill vibes, cross-country ski pristine trails, or explore the backcountry with Snowshoes in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. The Skyview RV Campground is a full-service 4-season campground with 92 Summer sites and 62 Winter sites, with new Washhouse and Playground. Accommodation options including Cabins, Chalets and Lodge Rooms. Manning Park Resort also offers a Loon Lagoon (indoor pool, hot tubs, sauna and steam), the Pinewoods Restaurant and the Bears Den Pub.
Bromley Rock
Bromley Rock is the ideal place to cool off during the Similkameen summer, as the Similkameen River’s flow relaxes here, allowing for visitors to enjoy the refreshing water by wading or swimming. Always use caution in a river – as river flows change with the weather and seasons. If you’re of the more adventurous mind, swim across the river to get a better look at the 50-foot behemoth itself or explore the untouched forest behind it.
Provincial Parks
Manning Park Resort
Skyview RV Campground, Manning Park Resort
Bromley Rock
Cathedral Park & Cathedral Lakes Lodge
Journey to Cathedral Park for a rugged backcountry adventure with epic views (Check with BC Parks and Cathedral Lakes Lodge for current access). Experience this one of a kind highelevation backcountry paradise. Hike from your doorstep and breathe in the stunning panoramic views, and alpine meadows, marvel at jagged mountain peaks. Meander down well-marked trails to experience tumbling waterfalls, striking rock faces and sparkling sapphire lakes. Experience the thrill as rainbow trout jump and shimmer in the sun. Walk the Larch forest, especially stunning in the fall. The area is home to California Bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mule deer, and the rare Arctic Ptarmigan. Stay in the lodge, an off-the-grid cabin or camp beside a jewel-toned lake.
Cathedral Lake
Manning Park
Bromley Rock
the valley & wine country
Explore our 140 km (87 mi) stretch of the Crowsnest Scenic Highway 3 when road touring by vehicle, RV or motorcycle, be sure to stop by each unique area in the Similkameen Valley, from West to East here are the highlights.
Princeton & China Ridge
Princeton is the largest community in the Valley with an estimated population of 3,200, it’s located at the junction of the Similkameen and Tulameen Rivers. Recognized as the Bronze Statue Capital of Canada, discover more than 25 stunning life-sized statues on the Princeton walking tour. Step back in time with “The Mountain Man,”a powerful piece depicting the life of an Indigenous trapper and imagine the rich stories of Princeton’s past. Camp / RV riverside year-round. Observe birds at the Swan Lake Nature Reserve. Fish in the many nearby lakes. Pan the river for gold (that you can keep!). Golf at the historic 18-hole course. Learn about the rich mining and pioneer history at the Princeton Museum. The nearby China Ridge recreational area extensive trail system comprises a north-south upland ridge running through forested regions, grassy slopes, and reforested areas. Explore 45 kilometres (28 mi) of well-maintained hiking, biking, horseback riding and skiing trails winding through the Ridge and 19 ungroomed trails, some are pet friendly.
COALMONT
Coalmont (pop 100), once a junction on the Kettle Valley Railway, is known for its outdoor recreation and fishing. Discover White Sands Beach along the Tulameen River. Located 18 km (11 mi) northwest of Princeton.
TULAMEEN
You’ll find Tulameen (pop 250) on the south end of Otter Lake, 26 km (16 mi) northwest of Princeton. In summer, relax, swim, boat, and fish, and in winter skate on the covered outdoor ice rink, or head out on snowmobile trails.
HEDLEY
Visit the eclectic hamlet of Hedley (pop 260), home of the Upper Similkameen Indian Band office. The Hedley Museum offers insightful exhibits into our First Nations and prospecting history. Pan for gold in the Similkameen River at the mouth of Hedley/20-mile Creek. Check out the local arts scene. Stemwinder Park is a quaint pine tree riverside park where you can camp, fish, or enjoy the tranquil running of the river.
Bridge of Dreams, Princeton
Stemwinder Park, Hedley
Keremeos & Cawston
Savour the flavours of multi-generational organic farms, orchards, and vineyards in Cawston and Keremeos. It’s authentically farm to table, and vine to glass here, enjoying the fresh bounty just steps away from where it is grown.
ORCHARD & VINEYARD STAYS
Linger longer by staying with us. Choose orchard, vineyard and distillery options suitable for the whole family, a girls getaway or cozy couple vacation. Unwind at Tree to Me Organics, with an Inn, bistro and market, or a suite at farmersdotter organics, a farm famous for its garlic and sourdough bread. Overlook orchards at Klippers Guest Suites and walk to their Marketplace & Café for coffee and unique Row 14 restaurant or Cidery, or indulge in beautiful vineyard views from the luxury suites at Orofino Winery or Corcelettes Estate Winery. Enjoy breathtaking river views from the Log Harvest Moon Guesthouse at Forbidden Fruit Winery or the Chitmexw Tiny Homes located right on the grounds of Sharpe Distillery. All are fully equipped for you to cook up your local ingredients or are close to restaurants. From suites to tepees and a pool, Similkameen Wild offers many options! Enjoy the vineyard view at Riverbank B&B. Leave the cooking to someone else at Crowsnest Vineyards Guest House and restaurant featuring fresh made breads and local cuisine. You may catch wood fired pizza night on the patio and hear some live music. It’s where the locals go.
ORCHARDS AND FRUIT STANDS
Learn why we are known as the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada in Keremeos, and the Organic Farming Capital of Canada in Cawston. With so many stands and farm markets it’s easy to find in-season produce as well as other local treats like preserves, fresh bread, samosas and more, to take home or enjoy on the spot with a coffee. Stock up for picnics or for your stay at a local inn or suite. Choose from a kaleidoscope of colours and flavours that include over 30 varieties of tomatoes, peppers and apples including the Ambrosia, found and cultivated right here in the 1990s. Delight in the fall with stands decorated with hundreds of pumpkins and gourds. Shop for fresh produce and great selections of locally crafted works of art at weekly farmers’ markets in Princeton, and Keremeos.
Orchard & Vineyard Stays
Fruit Stands & Orchards
Cawston
Apple orchard, Keremeos
Stay at Orofino Winery, Keremeos
3BENCHES ESTATE WINERY
2567 Middle Bench Rd., Keremeos, BC 250-460-2506 | 3bencheswine.ca
BOTTEGA WINE STUDIO
665 Beecroft Ave., Cawston, BC 250-502-4308 | bottegawinestudio.ca
https://bottegawinestudio.ca/
CLOS DU SOLEIL WINERY
2568 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos, BC 250-499-2831 | closdusoleil.ca
www.closdusoleil.ca
CORCELETTES ESTATE WINERY
2582 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos, BC 250-499-5595 | CorcelettesWine.ca
CROWSNEST VINEYARDS
2035 Surprise Road, Cawston, BC 250-499-5129 | crowsnestvineyards.com
www.crowsnestvineyards.com www.CorcelettesWine.ca
FORBIDDEN FRUIT WINERY
620 Sumac Rd., Cawston, BC 250-499-2649 | forbiddenfruitwine.com
www.forbiddenfruitwine.ca
HUGGING TREE WINERY
LASS CHANCE BEV CO
3041 Hwy 3, Keremeos, BC 250-499-9013 | lasschance.com
https://lasschance.wpengine.com/
OROFINO WINERY 2152 Barcelo Rd., Cawston, BC 250-499-0068 | orofinovineyards.com
www.orofinovineyards.com
ROBIN RIDGE WINERY
2686 Middle Bench Rd., Keremeos, BC 250-499-5504 | robinridgewinery.com
www robinridgewinery.com
Klippers Untangled Clos du Soleil 3 B enches
www.huggingtreewinery.com
2505 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos, BC 250-499-2201 | huggingtreewinery.com
KLIPPERS UNTANGLED CRAFT CIDER
725 Mackenzie Rd., Cawston, BC 250-499-0758 | klippersorganics.com
Visit award-winning boutique wineries, cideries, fruit soda and a distillery in this distinct wine region where you can truly taste the terroir. Over 15 patios and tasting rooms welcome you just east of Keremeos and around the Cawston area. Swirl, sniff, and sip while enjoying the breathtaking scenery and learn about the signature characteristics of Similkameen wines, ciders and spirits – the local growers and winemakers are always excited to share their stories! Go off the beaten path and cycle along vineyards (regular & e-bike rentals available), take a guided tour or board a helicopter for a bird’s eye view of the spectacular valley. You can also savour farm to table wine pairing experiences at one of the local restaurants. Tasting Rooms are open from April/May through October either by reservation or walk-in, and for winter by appointment. Wines are as diverse as the winegrowers themselves, but our winemakers have a shared passion to sustainably craft products that reflect the unique qualities of the valley. Taste our rare terroir in every bottle! Enjoy crisp white wines, bubblies, and rosés. Savour bold reds grown in hot vineyards soaking in the heat from surrounding rocks. Taste your way through popular varieties in the valley including Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Viognier, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. Be adventurous and try a new varietal or a new style. Visit Sharpe Distillery in Cawston where the passionate makers behind the Similkameen Valley’s only distillery, pour their expertise into crafting exceptional spirits. Sample a range of local flavours, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty where rolling farm fields meet rugged mountains. Sample a variety of dry to semi-sweet cider styles made from a range of apples, fruit blends and fusions, all organically grown, including fruit sodas.
Winery/ Cider/ Distillery
Corcelettes Estate Winery
Untangled Craft Cider
Clos du Soleil Winery
Twisted Hills Cidery
Keremeos
Keremeos known as Fruit Stand Capital of Canada with an estimated population of 1,800 sits below a steep peak known locally as K Mountain, along the banks of the Similkameen River, surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Sip and savour at the wineries and restaurants in and around the Village. Visit the historic Grist Mill and Gardens in Keremeos a captivating Provincial Heritage Site, with the distinction of being the last operational waterwheel flour mill in British Columbia, dating back to 1877. Keremeos is a starting point for Ashnola recreation area and Cathedral Provincial Park adventures. Meander the Keremeos River walk and consider the 2-level exercise challenge along the way (or just the beauty!)
Cawston
The community of Cawston (pop 1,080), just east of Keremeos, is known as the Organic Farming Capital of Canada with nearly 100 certified organic farms (40% of all farms). Enjoy fresh produce knowing it is healthy and sustainably grown in almost ideal conditions—a long and hot growing season, dry, windy conditions, and rich soils. Our farmers proudly supply many markets and fine restaurants in the Lower Mainland, throughout BC and beyond. Enjoy the selection of in-season produce and more from local markets including Klippers Market, the Honest food farm store, and Harkers Organics. Catch a weekly farm gate stand at Food of The Sun Organics and Organics Only and visit Canada’s first strawbale winery, Orofino Vineyards. Savour tastings at over 18 local wineries, cideries and a craft distillery. Travel south to see the terrain change to cacti and sagebrush desert, which is the home the Lower Similkameen Indian Band office as you travel onward to Osoyoos.
