If you know something every one else
should know or you need a question answered, here's the place to ask the questions
and find those answers. Questions, messages and discussions about the Kettle
Valley Railway trail are posted to this site daily.
Sept 8, 2009
Reena Meijer Drees reena@meijerdrees.ca
Penticton - Coalmont Labour Day 2009
Just completed the Penticton-Coalmont stretch with husband and two sons (11,
13) over the long weekend. Beautiful weather. We averaged 35 km/day or so (not
carrying anything but lunch and water) with 5-6 hours of biking. Nice time of
year for it - no bugs or heat and berry season mostly over so no bears either.
Trail is in good condition - new bridges and other maintenance visible from
Faulder to Bankeir. Lots of ATV and dirtbike traffic around Osprey Lakes area
- including trucks on the trail(!), making for some pretty tough going in spots.
Most users are friendly and will slow down when they see you. ATVs thin out
and trail improves beyond Erris tunnel. Stunning views through Jura into Penticton.
From Princeton to Coalmont ATV traffic is heavy - due to long weekend, the campgrounds
and forests are full of them. Trail etiquette can be lacking especially with
the younger generation - some buzz by at high speeds, spraying gravel. However,
they are gone fast, leaving beautiful countryside.
Recommended for a weekend: day trip from Bankeir to Princeton. Downhill the
whole way, great views. Can be done in about 5 hours. Nice places to stay: http://www.teepeelakes.com/index.htm
(Bankeir) or http://www.castleresort.com/ (Princeton). Ask them about a bike
taxi service - we saw one advertised in the Bankeir area - who can do dropoffs
/ pickups.
The more cyclists use the trail, the more pressure there will be to maintain
it to proper standards and come to terms with the motorized users.
cheers Reena
August 25, 2009
Brian Hampson 40th Marpole Scouts, Vancouver
From Kettle Valley to Penticton Aug 12-15,2009
We cycled with 3 adults, 11 youth (11-17) and 4 support vehicles.
I don't think I've seen this mentioned but in the book it talks about fording
a creek or the river... Never a need. All good bridges.
We managed to pick the one cool/cold week the Okanagan had all summer. The trail
was good. A little bit washboardy entering Beaverdell. After rains there are
some MONSTER puddles in the area around McCulloch. The Myra Canyon area was
VERY cold - temps around 10C and rainy. Caught us off guard...we had our support
vehicles come and grab us at the west end of the canyon and shuttle us to Chute
Lake.
The downhill from Chute Lake was wonderful, but when you go through a new development
planning area. (I think between Naramata and Penticton) the tral is very hard
with many large rocks. We had a tire changing fest there.
Shout out to Naramata Parks and Rec... That free water stop must be great for
people cycling UP from Penticton! Great job on the general trail maintenance
in that area - tough when it's a multi use trail.
It would be nice if the city of Penticton or some kind volunteer would put a
bit of signage up to direct you from where the bike path ends for the last 2-3
blocks to Penticton station.
Thanks Dan for the great book... Looking forward to v.4 --- Brian Hampson 40th
Marpole Scouts, Vancouver
Aug. 23, 2009
Krista Kaptein
Km 0 to Km 68
We just completed the section from Midway (mile 0) to Beaverdell (km. 68) &
back, from Aug. 19-21. Had previously (before the fires) done the Chute Lake
- McCulloch section which we greatly enjoyed.
A few notes: for accommodations in Midway, the Kettle River Inn/Midway Hotel
is no longer officially open for business, the choices are camping or the Mile
0 Motel (full when we were there). There is a fairly new cafe called the Glenburn
which has great food & internet access, open at 7a.m., owner is John, a great
fellow. The Midway Museum is worth a visit.
I was a bit surprised at how slow our progress was along the trail - we averaged
only 6-7 km/hr ! Partly I suppose due to sightseeing, water/snack breaks, but
also many gates/fences, a few sandy/soft gravel sections difficult to cycle
through. However there were no rock slides blocking the trail irequiring detours
at any point, which I had been expecting. We camped at Kettle River Rec Area
, excellent swimming after a hot day (we started earlier every day in order
to stop cycling around 1-2 pm: too hot to continue) Bonus to starting the day
early: you see more wildlife (coyotes, bears, deer, ground squirrels, as well
as many birds)
The Cyclists Rest Stop at Rhone is a landmark of course. Some of the route is
on paved road which was much appreciated compared to the bumpy trail. I had
hoped to see some interpretive signage at the few remaining historical remnants
approaching Beaverdell. The big info signs at Midway & Beaverdell were great
.
In Beaverdell, the Hotel is closed & we were skeptical about the Tamarack Lodge,
but Zacks Campground is excellent, also has rooms as well as indoor bathrooms,
highly recommended. The General Store is open till 8 pm whereas the few remaining
cafes/diners close at 5 or whenever they feel like it. Only two other campers
at Zacks, one fellow from Germany doing the Trans Canada Trail from Vancouver
to Castlegar. He had come from Chute Lake to Beaverdell that day, 100 km. We
saw no other through-cyclists on our trip.
We took highway 33 back from Beaverdell to Midway, follows the trail & river
essentially, with several access points to the trail if you felt like going
back onto it. The road shoulders are wide & mostly free of gravel, excellent
for cycling , downhill all the way back of course except for a few inclines
near Rhone (a couple of which could be bypassed by taking the Rhone road) and
then an incline up to the Ingram bridge just before Midway. Took less than half
the time on the way back, made for a nice circle route. We stopped at the halfway
point (Westbridge) for breakfast on the way back, the General Store opens at
9 am .
Overall, a good trip, lovely scenery, peaceful & pastoral. Several folks in
Midway & Beaverdell said the visitor numbers are way down, meaning increasing
difficulty staying in business providing services to cyclists.
August 22, 2009
Carly carly.adams@uleth.ca
Lost camera on KVR near Naramata
August 13th - Has anyone found a black Lowepro camera bag with a video recorder
and camera lens on the KVR trail near Naramata. We had a great day exploring
the area around Naramata. We went out on the trail above the town 4 or 5 km
or so, just past the tunnel and took some amazing pictures. We later realized
we left our camera bag there at a spot just past the tunnel. We went back the
next day but it was gone. If someone picked it up we would be grateful to have
it returned. The video camera has some videos of our four month old son that
can't be replaced. Thanks!
August 10, 2009
Daryl Foster
Otter Lake section of KVR
Recently my wife and I took my daughter to the otter lake section of the trail.
We had ridden this section several years before and found it challenging but
the trail was not too bad. this time however the ATV traffic has destroyed the
trail. It is no longer passable on a bike. There are signs in Tulameen that
say no motorized traffic but they are completely ignored by locals.I also believe
we saw a ATV tour group!! on the trail,obviously if people are going to profit
from the abuse to this trail there should be a way to recoup some money to help
repair it. It is really too bad that people cannot respect the rules as it ruins
the trail for everyone.
July,17 2009
Linda (from Kamloops, BC) semislicks@hotmail.com
Our Trip
Two cycling chix. We got dropped off in Midway June 27th with the goal of going
to Brookmere. We were self supported. Camped at KV provincial park just past
Rock Creek where the Gold Pan Restaurant has yummy pie. Thanks to the park hosts
who let us stay in the overflow day use area for our one night.
The next night we camped at Zacks in Beaverdell nice to be in the "cyclist village"
with over sixty cyclists camped there. Everyone complaining about the stretch
of sandy washboard on the trail that ended just when we thought it we couldn't
take it anymore.
The next day we made it all the way to Mcculloch again arriving to a whole city
of cyclists. One family pulling a three year old in a trailer, a six year old
on a tag a long cycle and having their nine year old ride loaded on his own
bike. On alternate days the dad would ride back to the previous nights campground
and bring along the food. (thus riding it three times) There was a fellow visiting
campsites in search of free food and water at Mcculloch Resort has no services
so thus no water or food.
We camped at Chute lake, and were annoyed by the cars on the rail bed between
Chute and Naramada, even seeing on loaded with tourists going to see the Adra
Tunnels. Even the parks and forestry workers were driving on this section making
it rough and dusty. This section has some new outhouses very clean and nice
and a display of "Free water".
We took a day off in Pentiction. We would recommend making your break longer.
The people at the Info Centre have no knowledge or info about the KVR. Actually
told us the KVR Steam train is not accepting reservations...we had one. We would
recommend taking the train on your day off if you want to see it. Very nice
ride and worth the reasonable cost. However if you do then you start your riding
day at 1p.m.
The sections from Summerland to Princeton are deep dry sand, horses, ATVs and
Trucks. The river beds are often to far away to throw yourself in which is what
you will want to do. One section took us five and a half hours to do 19km. The
Trout Creek Forestry campground is free has a lovely stream. One non usable
outhouse(no door, filled with waste all over the floor).
The campgrounds and homes from Osprey Lake on are filled with ATV families and
the sounds of them ripping up and down the rail bed will alert you to their
approach. Children as young as seven have their own little ATVs and while it
is nice to see so many families having fun it does have a huge impact on the
rail bed.
We road the highway #3 into Princeton where we decided after eight dusty days
to finish up by calling home.
What we learnt.
-We met tourists from England, Germany, Russia and the USA. All had been lead
to believe that most of the trail was like the pictures they had seen from MYRA
canyon and were vehicle free. We have a lot of work to do to match the rail
beds in other countries.
-Water is a premium everywhere. Pack as much as possible or carry tablets or
a filter.
-Pack really light. Since there are few services you won't need those cloths
and the fry pan. Dehydrated just add water meals are the best after a full days
riding.
-It can get cold at night only +2 our morning in Beaverdell.
- all the stories about Paul At Rhone's Rest are true. Great man, great place.
-there needs to be more facilities, even as simple as a bench or picnic table
between campgrounds.
-the book is a must have and someone should convert the maps to a handlebar
bag style like Adventure Cycling Maps.
-the best parts of our yearly cycling trips are still the sudden oh my gosh
views and the people you meet.
Would we do it again? McCulloch to Pentiction yes. The rest nope. We have done
Brookmere-Kingsvale and Princeton-Brookmere on wetter years and the trails were
still heavy with ATVs but not to bad, with the dry weather this year the trails
have taken a beating. Linda (from Kamloops, BC)
July 14, 2009
Bob Whittaker
ATVs on the KVR?
Hi friends in BC. Any news or new developments regarding ATVs on the KVR? We
are still under pressure from a few ATV advocates to motorize sections or all
of our proposed 29 mile rail tail in Ferry Co. (just below Grand Forks). I am
looking for any new info or contacts that may be a resource for me. Our trail
group are trying to show our commissioners here the reason we need our corridor
designated non-motorized (like 99% of rail trials in north america..) and move
on towards planning and funding.
Thanks Bob Whittaker
President Ferry County Rail Trail Partners
http://www.ferrycountyrailtrail.com
July 8, 2009
Glenn Siverns gsiverns@basicbusiness.com
Canada Day Trip
We cycled from Carmi to Naramata July 1st to 3rd. Our group consisted of my
father (72), my son (14) and myself (45), with my wife and my mother driving
to our campsites with food and lodging.
Starting from Carmi station we headed up the trail following the south bank
of Wilkinson Creek. With a steady uphill grade my father decided that he would
not complete this day and headed back out the logging road to meet the cars.
My son and I completed the 50 Km up to the Hydraulic Lake forestry site in about
5 1/2 hours, but I must admit I was exhausted. This section of trail has some
beautiful views including a great new camp site at Arlington Lakes and certainly
gives you a sense of accomplishment when you're done. The railbed gets a little
sandy as you reach the top as well.
Day two Dad joined us again and we completed the 50.0 Km (exactly according
to my GPS) to Chute Lake. Lots of different views of Kelowna along the way and
of course the Myra Canyon is not to be missed. We took plenty of time through
Myra and stopped for a lenghty lunch. With my father tiring toward the end we
took 9 hours to complete the day, but complete it we did. There are some uphill
grades on this section and plenty of sandy areas. The last few Km before Chute
Lake is very sandy.
Day three we were pressed for time so my Father again decided to stay with the
"support team". My son and I rode the 30 Km down to Naramata in about
two hours taking time to stop and look at Adra from both ends and a number of
rock ovens. We considered deflating our tires, but found that riding hard through
the sand on this section kept our bikes pretty stable.
We had gorgeous weather the whole way and I'd like to send a special thank you
to Dan for writing (and updating) his book. It was a very valuable resource
in planning and riding.
Send an email if you have any questions that I can answer.
Glenn
July 5, 2009
Elaine visualdefence@yahoo.ca
Rock Creek to Penticton Mom & Son adventures
We too just finished Rock Creek to Penticton - June 25-29, It was fabulous!!!
We did it the easy way, B&B’s and family camping in the aria.
Well the trip didn’t exactly start in Rock Creek as planned. The Gold Dust
Motel rented my RESERVED room before we got there [there was my name in the
book…plane as day] So the first night we bunked in with family at KV Provincial
park [beautiful place]. My son got to have a campfire & caught a fish before
we set out on our ride. Although I would have liked to see Rock Creek –
KV Park, I didn’t have to bike as much on day one. [that was a good thing]
From the campsite we started on the trail in the am of Jun 25th . My 15 year
old son and myself [an out of shape Mom] biked to Beverdale [that was to far
for mom!!! ] After a majestic mornings ride we stop in Rone to check out “Paul’s
Place” a rest stop for cyclists. Paul replenished our water and showed
us around… …great place…great man!! [very clean outhouses] He
doesn’t charge anything, however he will except donations for the flowers
around the memorial. After receiving our fresh cold water and getting the tour,
[you can stay in his life-size replica caboose] we set out again.
After riding through some of the best that BC has to offer, [& ringing our
bear bells] we eventfully got to Beverdale. Family picked us up & we all
drove to Ravens B&B at Idabel Lake.[Great hospitality…great food] The
plan for the next day was…. Family drives us to McCulloch Lake, we ride
to the canyon, meet back up with family & and all ride the Canyon together…
nope …tired mom decided we’d all drive to the canyon!!! We all road
the incredible canyon & my son & I continued to the B&B at Myra
Ranch [5k down a steep logging road… the 15 year old LOVED the ride down!
Keeping in walkie-talkie contact he got there 30 min. before me] The Ranch stay
was lovely & for a small fee they drive you back up to the trail the next
morning.
As we rode to Chute Lake we were overwhelmed by the fire devastation!!! We spent
two nights at Chute Lake. My son caught a few trout …and I caught a rest.
If you stop here you must ask Gary about his days of building the place by hand!!!!
And his absolutely incredible story of making it through the fires!!! WOW what
a guy! My son & I stayed in a room [not built for sound reduction…
but that just added to the novelty] and family met up with us, spending a night
in the campsite. …[Be sure to preorder your pie] My son really wants us
to go back to Chute Lake someday!
After our two night rest it was off to Penticton!!! WHAT A RIDE!!! I loved it!!!!!.
At one point, my son decides to take a signal-track-trail shortcut …Panniers,
fishing road & all! I continued along the long switchback and we met up
nearer the tunnel. When we arrived in Penticton, we were just as exhilarated
as we were tired.
It was a great trip! I would recommend it to any family. The time spent between
teenager & mom was a once in a life time experience…and as far as the
ride… … if I can do it …anyone can!!!! …Of course it helps
when you follow this ride with stay in Penticton and a 3 1/2 hour float down
the canal!!!
NOTE: I started making reservations in the 3rd week of March. It was almost
too late. I had to switch around my original planned dates to fit in to what
was available. I would recommend booking no later than the middle of Feb. to
be able to get all your 1st choice accommodation stays synchronize. June was
the perfect time to go… not to hot & long daylight hours.
Any questions: visualdefence@yahoo.ca
Elaine
May 15, 2009
John
Rock Creek to Penticton advice
Just finished Rock Creek to Penticton - June 5-8, KVR bible in hand. Nine folks,
Great weather, awesome trip. Only came across 2 ATVs and 2 motorbikes - otherwise
very peaceful. Some parts were a bit washboardy, but didn't find it a problem
anywhere (just deflate a little). Used Monashee shuttles (can take up to 10
bikes/people) to get from Penticton (the casino resort has lots of parking for
$5/day) to Rock Creek. Rock Creek Prospector Pub is great (staff, food, ambiance),
the accommodations so-so (but hey, it's $30 - 9 rooms/beds). Stayed at Highland
Cabins (Ellis, ~5 cabins, lots of space) in Beaverdell - excellent spot - especially
the use of the BBQ, picnic tables, and 1 block walk to the grocery/liquor store.
Raven's B&B (Louise, ~9 beds) in the McCulloch area - again excellent, although
the bedroom for five in the attic gets very hot. The prepared dinner was memorable
and definitely worth it, especially given the tiring day. Chute Lake Resort
(Doreen, 8 rooms/beds in lodge) was also excellent - best burgers/pies/breaky.
Summerhill Winery on trail into Penticton is a must for lunch/wine tasting.
Lakeside Resort hotel (Penticton) is expensive but was a nice way to end the
trip. Hope this helps someone - JC.
P.S. Would love to hear someone's advice on the Castlegar to Rock Creek section
which I'm thinking of doing.
May 14, 2009
Dawn in Calgary dawn@clover-resources.com
KVR with kids was great!
Our family just completed a fabulous 3-day trip from Myra Station to Okanagan
Falls, first week of June/09. We had warm, dry weather (up to 30 C). We toured
with 2 other families, totalling 6 kids and 6 adults. Kids were aged 3, 6, 6,
8, 8, 8. The 8-yr-olds all cycled their own bikes and the 6's trail-a-biked,
and the little one was in the trailer. These were no ordinary 8-yr-olds, though,
they trained before and were very tough on the trail! The trail-a-bikes were
perfect for the 6-yr-old girls and I never heard them complain once. They even
pedaled! :)
We cycled 32-39 km each day and this was lots for our kids, but we saw a school
group of gr 6-7's doing 50 km or more each day (not carrying gear). Our pace
was pretty slow taking about 6 hrs to cycle 39 km, including all breaks. Note
that our route was all level or downhill, no ups, and the kids were still spent
by the end. Sandy dry sections were the toughest and there were plenty of these
(trail was pretty sandy all through). Toughest cycle was from about Ruth Station
to Chute Lake (little shade, hot, very sandy). Chute Lake to Naramata was fine,
some sand but noticeably downhill. From Penticton to OK Falls was actually great,
along west side of Skaha Lake, the trail is in good shape.
Our biggest highlights were: Myra Canyon, tunnels (very popular), Chute Lake
Resort (very Canadian!), Rock Oven Park, Naramata gardens and wine store, Skaha
Beach in Penticton, and our final destination La Villa Motel in OK Falls (great
spot for families). BC Motel was also a great cyclists' motel, clean, equipped,
friendly, near restaurants.
I recommend for kids (8-10) cycling - Camelbacks to stay hydrated, gloves with
full fingers, small or no load, lots of bandaids in FA Kit, and lollipops! As
well, travelling 3 families together was great for the kids (and adults), they
encouraged each other.
Trickiest issues - getting out of Naramata required some road cycling with the
kids, since it is so far below the trail. Not perfect. Also, getting through
Penticton was tricky, check your route out ahead of time.
We also stayed at excellent Idabel Lake Resort before starting, there are great
trails all around to "warm up" on, and we were shuttled up to Myra by Monashee
Adventure Tours, worked great (this meant kids didn't have to bike an extra
20 km that day, but older kids could do it all). I would highly recommend this
trip for families
May 6, 2009
Rosemary rosemary@venos.ca
Suggestions
needed
My family, consisting of two parents and three kids ages 10, 12 and 14 are considering
cycling from Rock creek to Penticton in early August. Can anyone tell me what
the temperatures are like at that time in the Valley? Is it reasonable to expect
to ride 50 km per day? This will be our first biking trip so we are looking
for advice from veterans. Thanks
May 6, 2009
Dennis
Beaverdell Hotel
Just finished
biking the entire Carmi sub Beaverdell Hotel is again closed stranding 2 different
groups that had reservations Fortunately we were camping and stayed at beautiful
Arlington Lake Gov,t. Campsite that should be marked on your map but is not,
Dennis
March 6, 2009
Léon Lebrun
Trans Canada Trail Challenges 2009
|
This year we are offering
two Trans Canada Trail challenge
events 2009
Challenges Due
to the increased uncontrolled ATV and dirt bike activities on the KVR
it is not prudent to organize an event that involves cycling on this
venue this year. The rail surface is becoming much too laborious
for cyclists to make this a pleasant event. While the KVR is designated
for non-motorized trail users, regulations are not in place to enforce
this at this time. Hopefully, by 2010 this will have been remedied
allowing the surface to be repaired on a substantial section of the
KVR so that an event could once again be considered on this portion
of the Trans Canada Trail. At this time we are offering two TCT Challenge events in the Lower Mainland or Fraser Valley. Both
are fun oriented
non-competitive personally challenging event Golden
Ears Bridge TCT Challenge 2009 - October 4 Cyclists
- Walkers - Runners We
hope to organize this event in conjunction with the opening of the new
Golden Ears Bridge which will cause a re-routing of the Trans Canada
Trail. It is intended to be a 54 km course from Rocky Point, Port Moody
to Fort Langley. Once, again this should be an exciting and featured
course for our participants. Registration from the Trails BC website
will begin in the second week of April:
www.trailsbc.ca And Destination
Maillardville Challenge 2009
- Sunday,
July 12 At
the occasion of the 100th Anniversary of Maillardville. Cyclists
- Walkers - Runners - Voyageur Canoeists Destination
Maillardville’ is an event planned for the Maillardville Centennial
(1909-2009). The activity will highlight the discovery of Maillardville’s
heritage while walking, cycling, and paddling Voyageur canoes from points
outside this French community. The cyclists and walkers will be
starting from points along the Trans Canada Trail. Those
in Voyageur canoes will start from Fort Langley a 23 km paddle and 6
km walk. Cyclists and walkers will have options of up to 34 km
from Port Moody, Port Coquitlam or Colony Farm. Everyone
is invited to register and participate in this 'challenge' event organized
in conjunction with the “Fair in the Square” event at Place des
Arts. Shuttles (buses and trucks) will be provided from Maillardville’s
Laval Square to the starting points on the Trans Canada Trail.
Participants will work their way back to Laval Square in their chosen
activity. On the way back you are invited to participate in the
heritage activities at Place des Arts between 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
where you can enjoy food, music, the museum, train station, Maillardville
tours etc. For detail information and to register follow these links: English version French version or go to: maillardville100.com
Registration is now open online and otherwise. Register early because spaces will be limited. |
Please let us know if there is any further information you require. You can
view the details of our Motel on our website, URL below.
Thanks....
Diane & Bob Sterne
Mozey-On-Inn,
Box 3B, Comp. 10,
1841 Main Street,
Coalmont, B.C.,
Canada V0X 1G0
Ph: (250) 295-4355
Website: http://www.mozey-on-inn.com.
September 9, 2008
Shelly
Beaverdell Hotel
Hi Dan We did Beaverdell to Penticton a few weeks ago with thunder and lightening
and puddles-oh my! Stayed at the Tamarack Lodge but got a tour of the old Beaverdell
Hotel from the new owner, Bobby Jackson from Kelowna. He seems to have lots
of energy and enthusiam and is upgrading the kitchen facilities and generally
sprucing the place up. The tall fence had been put in place to have 'rock' concerts,
and he still may offer those occasionally. On another note, lodging at Idabel
Lake Raven Inn was nice, but the 4 km off the trail, much of it uphill, to get
to it, was not so welcome. Just after the Myra Canyon we stayed at Myra Bed,
Bale, & Breakfast in an outfitter tent. To get to it is a nasty 4 km downhill
on steep,rough road. The $10 spent to get back to the trail was worth every
penny! Shelly
September 5, 2008
Anna Bartlett acebartlett@mac.com
STOP DUMP TRUCKS ON THE KVR FOR 4 YEARS!!!
We need your help to bombard the RDOS offices with calls in opposition
of the following issue... (the gravel pit they are accessing is behind
our house). We live off the KVR just North of the Penticton/Naramata
trail boarder - directly across from the gravel pit. The 2 km stretch is
from the gravel pit and on north to the Winifred Road extension (Arawana)....
The KVR is not a place to be running dump trucks, its a
recreational trail for the use and enjoyment of everyone... some of
you use it to cycle and we have all taken a walk on it. The idea of
running dump trucks along it for any length of time is ridiculous.
So, those of you who can make a call, please do - save the KVR or
EMAIL Al HARE - al.hare@gov.bc.ca
Thanks guys - your support is appreciated.
So, here is the issue.
2 kms of the KVR Trail are being utilized to haul gravel products for
road construction on their subdivison. This disturbance makes it
difficult and dangerous for recreational purposes of the KVR as the
gravel trucks take up the full width of the right of way. Apparently
an application is underway to run dump trucks along the KVR over the
next 4 yrs. We feel this must come to a halt immediately. If you
agree and would like to add your support, please sign call the
following people:
Al Hare
BC Minister of Crown Land
250.490.8200 or 250.490.8231
email: al.hare@gov.bc.ca
Stephen Juch
RDOS Subdivision Supervisor
250.490.4133
Tom Chapman
Naramata RDOS Representative
250.496.5454
Bill Barisoff
MLA
250.487.4400
August 28, 2008
Diane & Bob Sterne
Mozey-on-Inn Coalmont
Hi Dan: We will soon be opening our small, three unit themed Motel in Coalmont.
We offer accomodation in the Bank, Saloon or Barbershop. The Mozey-On-Inn is
located just off the Kettle Valley Railway/Trans Canada Trail. Our website address
is www.mozey-on-inn.com. Please advise us how we can be added to your site.
Thanks. Diane Sterne
Mozey-On-Inn,
Box 3B, Comp. 10,
1841 Main Street,
Coalmont, B.C., Canada
V0X 1G0
Ph: (250) 295-4355
Website: http://www.mozey-on-inn.com
August 28, 2008
Dale
Contact
Dan, Thank you for the opportunity to communicate with you.
My name is Dale; my wife Sheryle and I live in Dallas, Texas. I am originally
from Alberta but have now live in Texas.
Recently while visiting my retired parents in Kelowna, my father drove us up
to Myra Canyon for a hike to the trestles.
We were fascinated by the history of the rail line and intrigued by the remarkable
hike and bike opportunities afforded by the abandoned lines.
We immediately started our research by a trip to Cycle Path in Kelowna, they
told us of your book, wow were we excited, a book dedicated specifically to
our new found goal of a cycle trip on the KVR, so we hustled across the street
to the book store and purchased their last copy.
The next morning we left Kelowna for our return flights back to Dallas. By the
time we arrived home that night I had studied and highlighted much of the book,
Wow are we impressed with all the work and detail you have invested in this
book. We are so very grateful for your passion and your writing of the book
.
We are now planning our first KVR biking trip for next summer.
August 27, 2007
Waldemar
KVR Updates
Hi Dan,
Thanks for the pointers when I called you the other day. The trip went
well, but it started raining pretty hard at Portia so the whole group decided
to shuttle to the tunnels, so we didn't do the last few KMs. Nothing other
than the tunnels can really compare to the Coquihalla canyon anyway.
A couple of observations:
August 2, 2008
Dan Langford
Re:quads and dirtbikes
Hi Doug, Had a similar experience last month. Was guiding a tour and doing
research for the next edition and found the same thing. Got lots of pictures
of the yahoos. Had to stop and let the dust clear every time. There were places
we did not make much progress. It's also one of the reasons the Europeans
are not coming back to do the KVR. This problem was starting to find it's
way into magazines in Europe and I started getting Emails asking whether it
was worth coming to Canada just before the trestles in Myra burnt down. They
were wondering if they would just find the trail all chewed up and be bothered
by all the dust and noise with all the ATVs. The trestles burnt down just
as this was becoming a major issue. With the trestles gone, there were very
few cyclists on the trail. That is now starting to change. Sandra called Tourism
BC (Spirit 2010 ) a couple of weeks ago and they seemed totally oblivious
to the problem. They technically are the owners of the trail and with their
big promotion of the trail coinciding with the winter Olympics you might think
the problem of quads and dirt bikes might make them wake up and do something.
I would suggest going to Tourism BC (Spirit 2010), Minister of Tourism, TCT,
Trails BC. All are stewards of the Trail. The more they hear there is a problem
maybe they might get the message. I hope they hear you. Good luck, Dan
June 2008
This may explain why there is a problem.
http://cwrail.quads.ca/castlegar_citizen_cw_writeup.jpg
My wife Virginia and I just finished a great bike tour of the Carmi Subdivision of the KVR. We printed up the latest updates from the website and were carrying the 3rd edition of your book. Here are some changes that were not documented anywhere we could find. Note that when we click on many links on the updates section, it said page not found – perhaps these things are already documented, but we couldn’t view them.
1. 33.0 km. The Westbridge General Store burned down 2 years ago according to a local source. No place to buy food in Westbridge. We ate Saskatoons and thimbleberries on the trail instead.
2. 39.9 km. Paul Lautard’s place now has a replica caboose that sleeps 3 people free of charge. Great stop.
3. 68.1 km. Beaverdell Hotel was temporarily closed when we arrived. We had reservations and no one contacted us to say it was closed. We ended up at Tamarack Lodge across the street. Vicky is the manager/owner of Tamarack and was very nice. There was a sign on the Beaverdell Hotel directing people to Zack’s Tenting and Cabins. Zack’s seemed like they would accommodate people if they had room. They have 4 rooms. We heard some very sordid stories (drugs, beatings, mean to customers) about the owner of the Beaverdell Hotel.
4. 118.1 km. The Idabel Lake Resort only accepts reservations for a minimum of one week. Not good for cyclists on the move. Louise Middlemiss and the Raven B&B are the only game in town for cyclists wanting a one night stay.
5. 121.8 km. McCulloch Lake Resort still closed. Louise at Raven B&B tells us that when they re-open it will probably be like Idabel Lake Resort with longer stays only, so no good for cyclists passing through.
We had a great time on the trail and really appreciated your guidebook. Thanks!
Cheers, JOHN
July 24, 2008
Firstly, thanks so much for putting all of this helpful information about the KVR on the web. My wife and I are going to cycle Midway to Pentiction in august and your book and web site have planning a snap. I have a couple of questions that I was wondering if you could help me with.
1) I am trying to find a shuttle from Penticton to Midway, do you have any suggestions?
2) I just bought a garmin GPS and am excited to use it on the trip. I don’t know just exactly how it works yet but I assume/hope that out there in the internet are some waypoints or other downloadable route data for navigating the railway and for marking points of interest. Are you aware of any that you can point me to?
Thanks,
Dave Aldous
calgary
Dan I did some more searching
after my last email and found your site detailing the maps and calibration files.
As well as the site with the myra-bypass.gdb file. If you have anything else
feel free to pass it along. Thanks, Dave Aldous
July 7, 2008
Heather Daynard
Trail Guidebook Suggestions
Hi Dan.
We just completed the KVR from Rock Creek to Summerland and really enjoyed it. I am so glad we had your guide with us – it was invaluable and I would strongly recommend that anyone doing the trail have a copy with them. It would be difficult to follow the trail in some places without it.
Some suggestions I would have your next update of the book:
Don’t list Beaverdell Hotel as a potential accommodation. It is completely
unreliable and at $95 a night, it is a total rip-off. We had no hot water, no
key to lock our room when we were out, and the incredibly loud music that started
suddenly late in the bar kept us awake for two hours. We were shown a TV that
we could watch and a frig that we could store food in….but after the staff
person left, we found they did not work. There was no one around to answer questions
or help us. Most of the lights were missing lightbulbs and there was no running
water in the bedrooms (even although they all had sinks). We had planned to
get dinner and breakfast there but quickly realized that was not going to happen.
Luckily, we found out in time to buy some supplies at the store. Unfortunately,
the Tamarack Inn and the Mama Mia restaurants were both closed. Others we met
on the trail had booked at Zack’s – it didn’t look very lively
when we were there but from all accounts, it is far superior to the Beaverdell
Hotel. It’s too bad that the Beaverdell Hotel is just a façade –
I think the owner has merely restored it to serve as his own private party house.
I would suggest you include more info about the surface material that bikers
will encounter on various parts of the trail. We weren’t expecting it to
be so challenging – neither the very rocky parts between Rock Creek and
Beaverdell; nor the very sandy/gravelly parts from Beaverdell to Myra; Ruth
to Naramata; and Penticton to Summerland. We had no problems and were able to
navigate it with hybrid bikes. But fatter tires would be better and I think
more info on the trail surface would help riders be more prepared. They need
to know that they will have to peddle even on the downhill sections and to work
to keep their front wheel straight most of the time.
I’m sure you already know that Chute Lake is now only operating as a campsite.
Too bad – it must have been a lovely resort to stay at. And also that McCulloch
Lake Resort is not available. We stayed at the Raven’s at Idabel Lake and
it was great. Louise provided a meal package (dinner, breakfast and a packed
lunch) for $48 each and the suite was terrific – a much better deal for
$100 than Beaverdell Hotel for sure.
Add an odometer to the list of things to bring. It would be hard to know where
you are on the trail without one.
Thanks again for your book – it really made a difference!
Heather
July 6, 2008
Wendy Jansen
Arlington Lakes
I was just having a look at your website and I didn't notice any mention of
Arlington Lakes as a stop along the route. I was just there camping, and hiked
a small portion of the KVR, but they have camping ($10/night) and a small store
has opened there as well that is run by the hosts (water, pop, soup, Kraft Dinner,
ice, wood, fishing bait, etc). Your website and book look like great resources
as I look to hike/bike more of this route. Thanks, Wendy
July 4, 2008
Bill Chalk blinge1@yahoo.ca
KVR Carmi bike trip webpage
Anyone interested in seeing recent pictures (June 9 - 12, 2008) of the Midway
to Penticton portion of the KVR, I've made a webpage at: http://members.shaw.ca/bchalks/index.html
July 3, 2008
Dave
Chute Lake Resort
The resort is not open due to the lack of availability to find staff. I called
tonight as a group of us were wanting to stay there this month
Note: Camping only
July 3, 2008
bike ride
Louis Doescher
Hi Dan: I got from the website your first name and email address. I'm planning
for the first two weeks of Sept. a mountain bike camping trip on the KVR. There
will be three or four of us and we plan on camping for two nights and staying
in B&B's or motels on each third night. I have the book, Cycling the Kettle
Valley Raildoad, but need to know, or where to find out, whether the campsites
along the KVR are reserved sites or first come first served. Also whether we
can camp most anywhere along the route. Will the sites be crowded in Sept, or
is the busy time earlier in the summer? Any information, or where to find such
information, you could email me would be greatly appreciated. Thank You,
July 3, 2008
Ken Gross
Princeton Subdivision
bankier there lakes store closed as of may 2008 atv's and motorbikes have made
trail soft and hard to pedal, from chain lake to trout creek logging road this
part of trail is destroyed
July 1, 2008
Irene Fast
Beaverdell to Coalmont
Hi Dan.....I hope this is the right email.....I gave Liz the book back before
I copied the email address but got this one from a website. Attached are a couple
of pics for now.....maybe I'll try to figure out how to download them all on
a website or something. Thank you again for being a great tour guide - I enjoyed
myself sooo much!! Irene Fast
Dan Langford and Léon Lebrum (Southwest Director Trails BC) at the Myra Canyon
Trestles Grand Opening.
June 28, 2008
Myke
request general info
Hi Dan – I’m an avid cyclist, but have mostly done road routes, e.g.,
cycled Victoria BC to St John’s NFLD in 2003 with my son. Since returning
from that trip, I’ve got my wife into cycling, but again mostly on roads
and she likes to avoid major mountain ranges and heavy traffic. We tend to do
a lot of cycling to and from B&B’s around Victoria and the Gulf Islands,
using the old railbeds of the Lochside Trail and Galloping Goose bike trails
as much as possible. I thought that the KVR might be a perfect trip for the
both of us as it is on old railway grades and therefore presumably is pretty
flat and has no cars except for the odd road crossing. In doing some background
checking I came across your website and wondered if you’d mind answering
some questions.
How recent is your info on the website and in the 3rd edition?
I’m used to doing 100+ km a day on long road trips, and my wife has done
up to 80 km on the railway bike trails here. From what I gathered on your website,
there appear to be some portions of the KVR that are slow going – for the
section from Midway to Princeton, what would be the average, easy day’s
ride in km.
Are there B&B’s spread along the way so that we could hit one every
night, or is bring camping gear a must?
Similarly, are there food sources along the way?
Most importantly, is a mountain bike a necessity? We both have hybrids which
are more comfortable on roads, but can easily handle the Goose and Lochside
trails on old rail beds in Victoria where the surface is mostly packed gravel
or hardpan. Are all the answers to these and other questions available in the
3rd edition? I bought a book on the West Coast Trail before hiking it and found
it invaluable as it was very recent and therefore accounted for every km of
the route accurately. I know that the fires in 2003 caused a lot of problems
for the KVR and wondered if the 3rd edition was published since then after the
repair work was done?
Oh, one more thing, we were thing of driving to Princeton, leaving the vehicle
their and somehow transporting ourselves and bikes to Midway and then riding
back to our vehicle? Are there places in Princeton to leave safely the vehicle
and what would be the best way to get us and our bikes to Midway?
Thanks for any help you can provide. Cheers, Myke
June 26, 2008
Re Princeton Subdivision
Paul
Thanks for getting back to me so soon. You must get tired of answering the same
questions over and over again. Since I emailed you, I checked out the news section
of your website and found a lot of very helpful info. Looking forward to this
year's trip and re-riding the Carmi section when the trestles are complete.
Keep up the great work. Paul
June 25, 2008
Bryan Kingsfield
Bears
Is there any area along the KVR where bears are an issue. Does one hang ones
food in the trees anywhere?
June 24, 2008
Pat
NK&S
Hi Dan - I am a big fan of the KVR in from Toronto for a few days. I have done
most of the eastern portion and now wanted to do some around Merritt. I hoped
to do the NK&S later this week. Any advice? Best direction? Bike rentals? Shuttles?
Cheers, Pat
June 23, 2008
Jim LaMorte, Email NO
KVR - Penticton to Castlegar
The wife and I pedalled from Penticton to Castlegar from May 24 to May 31
2007. Absolutely one of the best vacations we have ever enjoyed. In our “fit
fifties,” we decided to book B&Bs along the way. Our stops:
Chute Lake Chute Lake Resort, 250-493-3535, ask Gary and Doreen about
their experience with the 2003 wildfire. Great tales!
Hydraulic Lake Louise Middlemiss at Idabel Lake, louise@idabellake.com,
250-484-5490, about 10 km off the trail, but great service, great food.
Beaverdell Tamarack Lodge, 250-484-5490, where Monique and husband Rosie
can share some incredible stories.
Rock Creek Grouse Ridge B&B, 250-446-2890, Carol and Wilf at beautiful
site near Johnstone Creek, great people, great food, and you have to meet
dog Nook and cat Bubba.
Grand Forks River Bend B&B, 250-442-5171, Susan on 19th Ave.
Christina Lake Brio B&B, 250-447-6393, where Joan offers a cozy cabin.
Heading east from Christina Lake, an unofficial sign at the trail kiosk said
“Trail closed, Fife to Ferron” for logging, but we went anyway and
saw no
trucks. Also, some kind souls built a bypass around the washout east of
Lafferty (about 19 trail kms north and east from Christina Lake). Check with
the Wild Ways adventure shop in Cristina Lake 250.447.6561,
adventures@wildways.com, for the latest news on access.
We found two great places for milk shakes along the way The Copper Eagle
Deli in Greenwood, and the Great Canadian Ice Creamery in Christina Lake.
Next trip, we will also try to spend a Saturday evening in Penticton for
music night at the Dream Café (check www.thedreamcafe.ca for entertainment
schedule).
We returned our bikes to Penticton by renting a one-way UHaul, but Wilf and
Carol at the Grouse Ridge B&B in Rock Creek say they will transport people
or vehicles to help KVR cyclers
June 22, 2008
Paul
Princeton subdivision
I am planning to cycle the Princeton subdivision in October 07. I would like
to start in Penticton and finish at Brookmere. I would like to travel light
and stay in motels, cabins or whatever is available along the way. I have cycled
the Myra Canyon section (before the fire) and enjoyed it immensely because of
the great accommodations along the route. I can easily cover 50 km per day but
would prefer a little less to make it a more enjoyable, relaxed trip. I have
your book and it looks like there is access back to Hwy. #40 near Trout creek,
Kirton station. For the second night I would like to stop near the end of Chain
Lakes, then on to Princeton for the third night. Stop over near Coalmont for
the fourth night and on to Brookmere for the fifth night. I will also need a
shuttle ride back to Penticton from Brookmere. Any suggestions would be much
appreciated. Thanks, Paul
June 20, 2008
Mark Fisher
update on trestle reconstruction
Hi Dan… I’m guessing you probably gets lots of request for what I’m going to
ask – can you advise the status of trestle reconstruction on the myra canyon
area – I’ve cycled there before, but thought I might take my wife to the area
this weekend only if I can get her to experience the trestles, or part of… Thanks
Mark Fisher
June 19, 2008
Greg Egan
Accommodation by the KVR
Hi Dan , Thanks for the reply . Again , a quick perusal at www.hitchingpostbandb.com
may help . Thanks from Greg & Marietta Egan
June 18, 2008
Janet
Biking from Beaverdell to Penticton
We are planning to bike from Beaverdell to Penticton along the KVR trail
the first week of July, and want to know if there are any B&B's along the way...
have been unable to get the book at Chapters and time is running out... help....
any advice re the route? We are not super bikers, just recreational...
June 17, 2008
Bill
Info on KVRR bike route from Midway to Osoyoos via Penticton
Hi
With the re-openning of the Myra canyon, we are planning a trip to bike the
KVRR from Midway around the horn to Osoyoos the later part of July 2008. I have
a copy of your book (edition 2) but was hoping to get some current information
on the trail. Any information about the trail that differs from the book we
have would be greatly appreciated. We want to stay off the highway as much as
possible.
June 15, 2008
Tim
Shuttle Service
Hi Dan – could you point me in the right direction. I was wondering how to get
from Penditction back to my car at Midway – I am prepping for a bke tour along
the railway in the first week of July.
June 15, 2008
Joan wjbarber5@shaw.ca
Shuttle from Osoyoos to Midway
We are planning on doing the Kettle Valley Trail from Midway to Osoyoos in the
later part of July and are looking for a shuttle service to get us from Osoyoos
back to our vehicle in Midway. If any one knows of a company that offers this
service we would appreciate the information. Thanks,
June 14, 2008
Bill Chalk blinge1@yahoo.ca
Carmi subdivision trail conditions
Eight from Victoria did Midway to Penticton, June 9 - 12, 2008 with stops at
Beaverdell, Idabel Lake and Chute Lake. There are a number of big puddles on
both sides of Myra canyon, with water up to the axles (the panniers were dragging
in the water so lining them with garbage bags is a good idea). We rode through
most, although some have fist-sized rocks on the bottom which are hard to see
and steer around, so some of our party walked. The edges are walkable but not
without getting soakers. And it's of little consequence, because the four -
five kilometers of trail between Ruth and the Bellevue trestle is a mud-bath-
impossible to avoid by cycling because it's so irregular and sticky, so expect
to be walking in a few spots with mud over your ankles. This stretch of the
trail is chewed up by logging machinery and with all the rain it's just turned
into gumbo in places. To wash off the mud we literally dunked our bikes into
Chute Lake off the dock. Everywhere else was fine, trailwise. Other advise-
If you are not camping, the accomodation/food situation is a little chancey.
We were lucky to get places and meals as some of the individuals are getting
tired and worn out and may not offer services soon if they can't get a break.
June 10, 2008
Inge Wilson
Secure Parking - Hope
Dan - Greetings from Hope - you are welcome to leave your vehicle parked behind
the Hope Museum for the duration of your travels but there is no security here...
we would need you to leave your name, contact #, vehicle description & license
plate number with our staff on the day that you park your vehicle - we would
check to see that it was parked in an appropriate location + we would want you
to confirm the date of your return with us. I would not leave anything of great
value in the vehicle.
Other options are the Silver Hope Mini Storage (604-869-5288)or Storage Max
(604-869-2000 - this facility is located centrally behind McDonalds and the
cost should be about $30 for 2 weeks) - these locations are secure. You can
contact them for details. "Hope" this helps.... Inge Wilson Hope Visitor Centre
& Museum Complex Destination Hope & Beyond Services P.O. Box 370-919 Water Avenue
Hope, B.C. V0X 1L0 T 604-869-2021 F 604-869-2160 destinationhope@telus.net
June 7, 2008
Geraldine
Cycling for older adults
Looking to cycle a part of the KVR later this month. It would be a day trip,
we are older adults seeking a fairly level part of the trail - would you have
suggestions as to where we should go? We will be in the Okanagan, Osoyoos to
Kelowna areas. Your guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Geraldine
June 4, 2008
Jim B jamesrbrown@telus.net
Midway to Penticton snowpack level?
We are planning to finish the KVR ride this year, in 2005 we did the Castlegar
to Midway hop (excellent!!!) but stopped because the Myra Canyon trestles links
were not rebuilt yet. We are hoping to ride in the last week of June'08 from
Midway to Osoyoos...anybody have any idea of what the snowpack conditions on
trail may be like then? Considering the cold spring we have so far, one wonders
if the trails will clear enough. Thanks...
June 4, 2008
Jim B jamesrbrown@telus.net
south of Penticton trail
Last time I rode the westside (Skaha Lake) trail from Penticton to south of
OK Falls two years ago, there was no problem. Remember this right-a-way was
purchased by the BC Gov't for public use, there is some private encroachment
but the access to the trail is open (maybe the odd gate or two)...
June 4, 2008
tom lloyd
Hoping to cycle the c&w in mid aug.
can anyone tell me what kind of shape it is in. Thanks Tom Lloyd
June 2, 2008
Dooley
McCulloch Lake Resort
Hi there, McCulloch Lake Resort has a website now. www.mccullochlakeresort.com
We will be detailing more about the cycling in short order. ~D
June 2, 2008
Barb Email: bz_lawson@hotmail.com
Skaha lake trail
Our group consists of 5 women and we are in the final planning stages of our
trip from Rock Creek - Penticton - Osoyoos from July 30th to Aug 4/5th. We are
having a hard time getting consistent info for the section south of Penticton.
We have been told that the western side of Skaha lake can be restricted due
to riding on private land so take the Eastside road but then another person
said that the westside trail is wonderful. Does anyone have current info that
we can rely and plan on? We would like to stay off the highway as much as possible.
Also does anyone have a phone # or email for McCullough Stn? We are planning
on camping but would like to pre-book sites if possbile. Thanks for any and
all help.
June 2, 2008
Mary Jane Terzi
Shuttle?
Hello, Four of us are riding the KVRT in early Sept. from Midway to Princeton
and are in need of transport back to Midway from Princeton. Any info re a shuttle
service would be great. e-mail address is: sherlockmom@embarqmail.com Mary Jane
Terzi
June 1, 2008
Dave & Heather Remillard hdremillard@shaw.ca
Midway Mobile Home & RV Park
We are the new owners of the Midway Mobile Home & RV Park, which we purchased
Oct 30/07 from Jack & Barb VanRyn. We have beautiful park-like grassy sites
and want to invite all bikers of the KVR section of the transCanada trail to
camp here, directly behind the Railway Museum, we are at 925 Thirteenth Avenue
in Midway. We have a very accessible, quiet park and will give special discount
rates to groups, but charge only $10 including showers for single riders. We
want to encourage enjoyment of this beautiful section of the trail and if you
look under the Village of Midway site, you will see us advertised there under
accommodations. Our names are Dave & Heather Remillard and our telephone number
is 250-449-2739.
June 1, 2008
Lynn Asquith lynnasquith@hotmail.com
Bike hire and access to Myra Canyon
We are planning a trip in late October from UK and would like to rent bikes
and cycle the Myra Canyon section. Any suggestions on nearby bike hire locations
and access/shuttles up to the Trail would be much appreciated. Thanks.
May 26, 2008
Dave Cason
Chute Lake?
Hi Dan, First off the site still rocks! You do a really good job on keeping
it current. I've done the KVR about 5 times and want to go for a frolic again
this year. So I know that all the trestles in Myra Canyon are alive again but
do you know if Chute Lake Resort is open and alive? That's was always a favorite
haunt of ours. Since time might be a factor this year I was thinking of Beaverdell
and then up and over the top to Okanagan Falls .... and the if the lads are
ambitious further south Osoyoos and call it done .... what do you think? Do
you know what's still up for detours along that route at this point? Cheers'
Dave Cason
May 20, 2008
Brenda
Kelowna area
To Dan, A group of us are interested in biking part of the kettle valley railway
around the Kelowna area. We have two days to bike. Therefore I was hoping to
get some information from someone who was directly in the know of this area
and how to maximize our time.If you can help us out that would be great.Thanks.
Brenda
May 15, 2008
Simone Unsworth
Trail at Kaleden
Hi. Not sure if I am sending this to the right person. I am a resident of Kaleden
and use the KVR to bike into Penticton to work daily. I wanted to know who is
in charge of maintaining it? It is very rocky this year and needs a little tlc.
I have to fight just to stay upright a lot of the time. Also there have been
motorcycles ripping up and down the tracks destroying the path as well. Is it
possible to get signs put up for no motorized vehicles? The path all- in-all
is very unpleasant to ride. Thank you, Simone Unsworth
May 14, 2008
Linda Hill
Three Lakes Store in Bankier / Soaring Swallows B and B
We will be cycling
from Princeton to Penticton next week. We just found out that the Three Lakes
Store in Bankier (on the Kettle Valley Trail between Summerland and Princeton)
has permanently closed down. We have booked to stay at Soaring Swallows B and
B. Carol Terry (owner) will be cooking dinner for us, putting us up in one of
her cabins, cooking breakfast and making us a bag lunch. The cost of this great
service will be $65 per person. She was saying that Bankier is at the Summit
and the snow is finally all gone.
May 9, 2008
Terry Malanchuk
It was a Good Blakeburn
* * * * * * * * ANNOUNCING * * * * * * * *
THE UPCOMING RELEASE OF IT WAS A GOOD BLAKEBURN TERRY MALANCHUK’s SECOND NON-FICTION,
HISTORICAL ACCOUNT of B.C.’s FORGOTTEN GHOST TOWN. ALSO THE LONG AWAITED RELEASE
OF THE BLAKEBURN DVD A FEATURE LENGTH TOUR OF B.C.’s FORGOTTEN GHOST TOWN THE
RELEASE OF BOTH SELF-PUBLISHED PUBLICATIONS IS SLATED FOR THIS CANADA DAY, JULY
01, 2008. IT WAS A GOOD BLAKEBURN WILL RETAIL FOR $24.95 THE BLAKEBURN DVD WILL
RETAIL FOR $19.95 For additional information on these two new publications please
visit the web-site at www.blakeburn-forgottenghosttown.ca or E-mail -terry@blakeburn-forgottenghosttown.ca
May 8, 2008
Greg greg@whatasite.com
Dog restricitons
I am planning a few days of cycling along the Kettle Valley railway and would
really like to bring my dog along. Are there any restrictions about dogs on
the trail? I am a responsible dog owner and will gladly pick up after him and
leash him as required. I just need to know if he is allowed on the trail.Thanks
Greg
May 4, 2008
Great Exploations
Myra Canyon Opening Tour
Great Explorations
Kettle Valley Trail, British Columbia 
It’s one of Canada’s most prized assets- an off-road trail that crosses
British Columbia from Castlegar to Hope, a distance of over 700 km. Incorporated
into the Trans-Canada Trail, this route has garnered attention around the world
as one of the premier trails anywhere-Outside Magazine called it one of the
top trips on the Planet. The forest fires of 2003 damaged the trestles through
Myra Canyon but they have since been re-built and are re-opening to the public
in June of this year. To celebrate, Great Explorations has planned a trip to
coincide with the formal opening and noted historian and author Dan Langford
will be riding.
June 20-26 2008
CAD$995/US$995
Click
here for more information
March 21, 2008
Trail is now open!
It has been over 4 years in the making, but we are very happy to report that
the trestles have all been completed, and it is now possible to travel over
the 12km route between Myra and Ruth trailheads. At the time of this writing,
there is still, of course, snow on the route, but that will soon be gone. The
trail will be re-surfaced once the frost has left the ground, and other finishing
touches will be underway, so it will be necessary to watch out for these activities.
Enjoy!
Myra Canyon Trestle
Restoration Society
http://www.myratrestles.com/newsandevents.php
March 16, 2008
Drew
Idabel lake
Hi, Dan! Our cabin has a web site already, it is( www.chateauchien.com)
February 21, 2008
Carol
Where to get Book?
Hi Dan - A few of us women are going to probably do Midway to Coalmont starting
June 18th. We are trying to locate your newest book. Tried at the Otter in Nelson
a few weeks ago on a ski trip, but they didn't know when it would be in. Do
you? A friend of mine is going to Nelson and Slocan Valley area next week and
I'm wondering if you know if they have been distributed to those areas yet.
Let me know. Thanks. May have more questions as time goes on.
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Trans Canada Trail Challenge 2008 Myra
Station to Penticton Trans Canada Trail Pavilion Sunday, July 6 The following is an invitation to you and members of your group to participate in this year’s Trans Canada Trail Challenge event. Trails BC, the Myra Canyon Trestle Restoration Society, the Naramata Woodwackers, and the Summerland TCT Society along with regional communities/jurisdictions are pleased to offer its 8th Trans Canada Trail Challenge. This year it will be held in conjunction with the re-opening of the Myra Canyon and the Penticton Centennial. Participants will be able to discover and explore up to 80 km of the Trans Canada Trail on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. You can choose to cycle, walk, run, or ride your horse in this non-competitive and personally challenging event. Cyclists can choose to ride the full 80 km while walkers along with cyclists and runners can choose to do shorter sections that include the spectacular Myra Canyon with all its re-constructed trestles. In the Myra Canyon alone there are 18 trestles and two tunnels. Equestrians will be able to combine a ride with a walk or cycle in the Myra Canyon. If you haven’t already done so, go to our website: www.trailsbc.ca for more details and to register either online or by regular mail. For information about the Myra canyon and its location go to: http://www.myratrestles.com We sense that this will be a very popular event and registrations are limited. Register early to avoid disappointment. Questions or comments can be directed to: Contact: Léon Lebrun E-mail: southwest@trailsbc.ca Phone: 604-942-6768 |
March 14, 2008
Dan Langford
Re: Signs along highway 33
This web site should answer your questions.
http://www.spiritof2010trail.ca
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