Summer - Fall 2011 Volume 21 - #2 milehigh.ca

MILE HIGH NEWS ON MOUNT WASHINGTON t r o s e R

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ACCOMMODATIONS & EVENTS GUIDE - STRATHCONA PARKS MAPS - REAL ESTATE & MORE s o t o h P Bye Bye Green Chair... Hello Magic Carpets? ogy, Resort President Peter Gibson said. One 250-foot covered conveyor will be centred near the top of the new be - The venerable Green Chair Lift is gone. The Green Chair, Platter and Handle ginner slope on Green Acres. There will In its place, four covered Magic Car - Tow were dismantled in May and sold to be three covered conveyors (550 to 650 pets will be installed - the latest in two smaller ski resorts. The slider and feet long) installed on the Green Face to people moving technology for North handle tow went to Powder King, near replace the chair. Continued on page 10 American ski resorts. Prince George. Some of the Green Chair parts were shipped to Mont Sutton in And with them, a revamped beginners’ ski Quebec, primarily for parts. and snowboard area will be developed this The area between the Bradley Centre summer. and the Hawk Chair will be leveled out “This is great. We really need to create a “so you won’t have the sensation of being better beginner experience,” Director of pulled to the left when you’re skiing for Business Services Don Sharpe said. “Mount the first time,” Sharpe said. “That will be a Washington on Vancouver Island needs to big change for us.” create their next generation of skiers.” The The Magic Carpets are a new trend at ski Photo: George Trousdell Resort will do so in a safe and easy manner, resorts, although Mount Washington’s will he added. be covered, this is cutting-edge technol -

Published by RICK GIBSON of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley • 250-338-1723 • www.rickgibson.ca • [email protected] 2 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

Another victim of the snow that also celebrate with some free tickets for News In Brief needed a hand digging out was the ski ing -and chocolate. Marmot Recovery Centre . They needed ••• Encompassing people, places to ask for help plowing around some of Andrea Lee of Black Creek (shown left) and community happenings at the natural marmot dens and feeders won her first bronze medal of the Canada found at the Resort. Mount Washington Alpine Resort. Winter Games in February in the 10- ••• ••• kilometre Classic Mass Start cross-country Mount Washington Alpine Resort had Bear Lodge has a new caretaker. Paul skiing event. The Strathcona Nordic Ski an explosive season - literally - in a Heggeler , who has had experience at Big Club member now trains at the National Development Team Training Centre in record snow year. The Resort used more White Alpine Resort, is working up there explosives for avalanche control than any now. Thunder Bay, Ontario. PHOTO BY SUSAN QUINN Dave Battison other year to date, Resort Director of ••• Her coach, , coached the Love was in the air Public Relations Brent Curtain said. for a Victoria couple B.C. Nordic team at the national winter The snow was so deep around Christ - that got married at the Resort last winter. games in Halifax, NS. mas time - nearly four metres fell in about And a pair of Mount Washington Alpine ••• Carle Brenneman a week - that maintenance crews had to Resort employees were asked to help them of Comox reached the rescue a cat. with the ceremony. podium at the 2011 Canada-Snowboard Mike and Naomi Mousseau No, not the furry, purry four-legged Nationals and Junior National kind; the snow grooming machine. The exchanged vows on a snowy day in the Championships in Lake Louise, Alberta in cat was buried. So were several other forest behind the Bradley Centre. Stand - April. Brenneman, a BC Team rider, fin - Resort vehicles in the maintenance yard. ing up as witnesses for the joyful couple ished in second place behind World Cup were Amanda Ridgway and Jeanette champion Dominique Maltais. Provincial ••• Kangas from the Resort marketing team. team member Jade Critchlow (Kelowna) The Resort helped the couple finished the race in third. Henk and Hennie van Doorn of Amersfoort, Netherlands PHOTO BY SUSAN QUINN INSIDE THIS ISSUE... Henk and Hennie van Doorn put Mount Washington Alpine Resort on their maps 9 • Mount Washington Hiking Trail Map in June. The couple, from Amersfoort, 11 • BC Parks Forbidden Plateau Netherlands, was on a one-month holiday and Paradise Meadows Trail Guide, to western Canada when they stopped by Map and Event Listings Mount Washington on June 4. 13 • BC Parks Buttle Lake Trail Guide & Map The van Doorns decided six years ago 15 • Exclusive! Mount Washington that they wanted to see the world. They Summer 2011 Events Guide started with Thailand and have since 16 • Exclusive! Mount Washington visited Indonesia, China, Tibet, the United Rental Accommodation Listings States, and now Canada. 4 • Let’s Ride! New Beginner Mountain 18 • Mount Washington Village Map Henk said he first read about Mount Bike Terrain and Packages 23 • Unidentified Lying Objects? Washington in a Guide Book. The couple 5 • Winter 2010/2011 Wrap Up Food for Thought for Marmots enjoyed seeing all the snow still piled up 6 • Mountain Sports Centre Hires Manager 24 • Stay & Play, Shop & Dine on the higher elevations of Strathcona 7 • Savvy Sasquatch Learn From Marmots in the Comox valley Parkway, and in front of the Alpine Lodge. 8 • Ski Clubs Shine in 2011 28 • Mount Washington Real Estate Guide ••• • Mount Washington Mountain Bike Trail Guide

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O O T T O O H H P P Scott paints for VIMSEC Chris Dennis: In Profile

Comox Valley artist Brian Scott is “I first started skiing here in 1961 with When it comes to Mount Washing - crew and as a lift supervisor. He is enjoying throwing his support behind the (Mount Washington Alpine Resort ton Alpine Resort, the Dennis family his apprenticeship with the maintenance Vancouver Island Mountain Sport President) Peter Gibson. Herb Bradley of Royston gets around. You name it, crew. and Education Centre (VIMSEC) in a taught me how to ski,” Scott said of the one of the Dennises has likely done Erin, 27 , worked in the General Store colourful way: through his late Comox Valley snow sport icon, for it - from cashier to KidZone, liftie to and was a summer lift operator. In 2010, paintings. who the Bradley Centre is named. retail, call centre operator to heavy- the Olympic year, she worked at the Scott and Gibson joined Bradley’s duty mechanic apprentice. central reservations call centre. Scott has created a series of oil group, the Fanny Dunkers Ski Club, at a Nicole, 25 , spent a season working as a paintings of winter and skiing scenes, time when ski passes were just $20 a year, Adam, now 29 , is in his third year of cashier in KidZone when she was in Grade based on his own experiences, and will Scott said. His mother allowed him to skip an apprenticeship for heavy duty 10, but has since moved on. church on Sundays so he could travel with mechanic at the Resort. Adam began sell them as prints and an art book collec - At the centre of this family of alpine the Fanny Dunkers to ski, hike or back - working at Mount Washington as a tion called “Skiing on Vancouver Island” enthusiasts is mother Chris Dennis, pack the backcountry between Forbidden parking lot attendant, then lift operator to raise funds for the ongoing operation of the retail supervisor at Altitude Sports. the Centre. Plateau and Mount Washington, depend - (liftie). ing on the season. Continued on page 10 He has worked with the summer trail Continued on page 10 4 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 t r o s e NEW RESORT STAFF R

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g Amanda Ridgway n i h s a W

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o Amanda Ridgway has completed her M

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o Co-ordinator. h P “I moved to the Island because I wanted to keep riding my bike through the winter,” she said. Originally from Brisbane, Queensland, Ridgway makes no apologies for her Amanda Ridgway enjoying a ride through warm-weather pursuits. “I’m very much a the Cumberlnad Forest Trail. summer girl, being from Australia,” she said. self-taught artist with a diploma in New Terrain and Packages “Like many Australians, I came for the Professional Photography and Desktop winter and stay for the summer,” she Publishing. for Beginner Mountain Bikers added. When she is not creating graphic art, Ridgway became a permanent resident Kangas enjoys painting with acrylics, of Canada a few years ago and is currently according to her personal website. (See Have you always wanted to give the mountain. studying to take her citizenship test. below) www.winkabilities.com mountain biking a try at Mount “It captures the market that thought the Ridgway now switches hats to full-time Her inspirations come from the mountain was too challenging.” Washington Alpine Resort, but salesperson until the fall, when she will outdoors: anything alpine to ocean. "Now The Green Line goes from the top of the thought the course or the bike park again throw herself into outdoor winter with my first season behind me in Hawk chairlift right to the bottom, swings were too difficult? events. this position (Resort graphic artist), I felt to the west basin and drops between the Ridgway represents the Resort on it was really about discovery; getting to With the opening of brand new Hawk and Reverse Traverse run. It’s all Tourism BC’s mountain bike marketing know and creating a feel for the beginners’ terrain this summer, you can machine made, with smooth corners and committee, which promotes B.C. as a mountain's image," Kangas said. no longer use that as an excuse. no jumps.“It’s just a really fun line down world leader in mountain biking. “It’s an "With that said, I am still excited about Mount Washington Alpine Resort has the mountain,” he said. amazing opportunity for me,” she said. the plethora of potential using visual opened its new Green Line trail for novice The new terrain has also opened up In her spare time, Ridgway works as a means of building and establishing a playful mountain bikers. Trail work was com - new programming and rental opportunities mountain bike instructor with the Trek and strong impression for the Resort." pleted last summer, and the trail has for mountain bike enthusiasts, he added. Dirt Series, which travels western Canada officially opened for the summer season. The Resort has added a Learn to Ride and the United States teaching women to “We want to encourage more people to program that has an all-day lift pass, ride mountain bikes. come up here and learn to mountain lesson and rental. There is also a family She also continues to write a lifestyle bike,” Mountain Bike Manager Mike option available. column for a publication in Fernie. Manara said. A new Ride On package allows first- “It’s a part of a trail network that we time mountain bikers to enjoy the haven’t necessarily had in the past. There mountain at a discounted rate; one, two- Jeanette Kangas were sections of the trail that people could hour lessons coupled with two-hour Another new face at the Resort is take down the mountain... this is a rentals, as well as two follow-up days. Jeanette Kangas, the in-house graphic dedicated, easy line to get people down Continued on page 27 designer. Based in Courtenay, Kangas is a

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Rese rvations Req uire d 1-877-824-8253 or 250-283-251 5 www.getwest.ca THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 5 t r o s e R

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: o t successful 2010 Winter Olympics staged o records. h Mount P at Whistler and Vancouver. And that translated into a successful The Resort saw the biggest continuous Washington winter season for the Resort, said Director snowfall over the Christmas holiday, and Photo: Tony Radomi of Public Relations Brent Curtain. their records were often lumped in with “The words La Nina, and last year being international coverage of people stuck at Special Events a very strong snow year helped to push Kennedy International Airport in New Season’s Pass sales and 6Pak sales,” he York - also because of heavy snowfall, said. The “snow” visits were in the Top 5 Curtain said. of the Resort’s history, Curtain said. A lot of people came up just to look at Some of that was attributed to all the all the snow, he added. “On top of the While there are always activities two-night event Friday, Aug. 26 and extra media coverage, and some of it was holiday rush of people coming up here, Saturday, Aug. 27. The Wine and Food going on at the Resort during the word of mouth, he said. we had people coming up just to see how Festival will see the traditional wine festival day - Mile High chairlift, mini-golf, “We got front page of the Globe and much snow fell.” run on Friday, with a gala dinner Saturday Bungy-Trampoline, hiking - Mount Mail, we were on the national news with Although it was a big snow year, there combining the best of both worlds with a Washington is known for its special Peter Mansbridge. It did spread were a lot of big powder days - not a lot of chef and a sommelier. events. And this year’s lineup will internationally, but a lot of the mainstream so-called “bluebird” days, or clear skies, As far as sporting events go, Resort staff (media) covered us more than anything. that draw the fair-weather skiers and not disappoint. Bearclaw Invitational are excited that the “National media attention would have boarders. The annual Beer Festival will see some slopestyle mountain bike race is back. “It’s been seen by 20 million eyes in Canada,” “We saw moderate growth in night changes this year. “It’s not just a beer fest probably the single biggest event held on he said. A national media tracking skiing, snowshoeing and cross-country anymore,” Resort Director of Business the mountain, summer or winter,” Resort company estimated the exposure gave the skiing,” Curtain said. Services Don Sharpe said. Enter Suds Director of Public Relations Brent Curtain Resort the advertising equivalent of While they saw solid numbers in local and Scotch , a new version of the festival said. “On a good weather day we can $700,000 just from Christmas alone. visitors, the number of international that will include some fine scotch from count on 5,000 people coming up to visitors dropped off. various suppliers. The event takes place watch.” July 8 at Raven Lodge. Admission will still Darren Berrecloth staged the first be $25; festival goers can then purchase Bearclaw in 2006, and more than 1,000 tickets to redeem for samples from the people came to watch. The crowds different vendors. The barbecue and live continued to grow, even with some bad music will still take place. “It’s something weather in 2008. fun and different,” Sharpe said. “We The Bearclaw took a break for a few believe you have to add new elements to years, but the hype is growing. The event events to make them more exciting.” kicks off Aug. 4 with practice and the

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television series that ran on CHEK News over eight consecutive weeks. Nicholson hosted five freelance journalists from New York, Oregon, Calgary and Vancouver in the Comox Valley as part of an Alpine to Surf media familiar - Tourism Mount Washington has ization trip sponsored by Tourism Assn. of N N spent the past year moving from I Vancouver Island U Q

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Tourism Mount Washington has also S U S Sarah Nicholson predicts the trend partnered with Comox Airport in a Y B

O to continue in the foreseeable “fly-drive” package in Alberta. It’s all T O H future. about maximizing the Association’s P budget creatively, to give the Resort as “We always said it would be a five-year much exposure as possible, she said. plan and we’re just coming into our fourth Earlier this year Tourism Mount year,” she said. “I’d say we’re on target.” Washington saw the return of Ghana’s The association saw 4.2 per cent “Snow Leopard”, skier Kwame Nkrumah- growth in site visitors over last year, which Mountain Sports Centre takes advantage of Acheampong, to Mount Washington is encouraging, she said. They are also Alpine Resort in January, to talk about Tribune Bay Outdoor Centre Experience looking at between 240 and 270 members twinning the Resort with his own Senkwa signed up this year. “We can look forward Mamfe Alpine Ski Resort. The Vancouver Island Mountain and Education Centre. He has been a to more growth in our membership, Kwame is building a sand-based ski Sport Society has hired Tribune Bay director with VIMSS for nearly three particularly due to people now seeing resort in Sub-Saharan West Africa, which Outdoor Education Centre to operate years, and has experience in operating a what we’re doing.” will simulate the same skill set that North the new Sport and Education mountain facility: he used to run the “It just underlines the total support American skiers hone on snowy slopes. old Nordic lodge and cross-country ski from the mountain’s point of view as to Centre being built on Mount operation. Nicholson was also invited to represent our mandate and impact we’re having on Washington. A manager has also been hired, the Resort community during the launch Andrew Scherck, to look after things the mountain, that they recognize the “We have 3,000 kids who come through of the Ghana Ski Slope Project in the when the building opens. There will be benefit.” our centre every year. It was kind of a African country. Nicholson brought with opportunity to bring in additional staff Tourism Mount Washington has re- natural fit,” said Gord Campbell, Admin - her a videotaped greeting from Resort as need allows. established the Thanksgiving Owners’ istrator at Tribune Bay for the last 22 President Peter Gibson as well as a gift The other benefit of having Tribune Barbecue, which last year raised funds for years. from Chief Ernie Hardy from the Komoks Bay look after operation of the centre is the volunteer ski patrol. They have also The 8,000-square-foot facility will it will allow the Hornby Island-based First Nation to present to His Royal feature an athlete training centre, dorm- been actively involved in bringing CNN to staff to move from seasonal to full-time Highness The Paramount Chief of the style accommodation and cooking facilities, the mountain to cover events such as the jobs. Right now the outdoor education Mamfe Traditional Area in Ghana. meeting and video rooms, space for a Soldier On Festival and the work the centre runs from April to October. For a minimum investment, it’s a huge sport science lab, equipment storage, Adaptive Snow Sports Program does. Campbell hopes staff can move straight international networking opportunity,” training facilities and fitness equipment. Vince Schulley featured Mount from Hornby to Mount Washington she said, and it brought an international The hope is that sports teams and other Washington in a BC Ride Guide article in and pick up seamlessly. media focus to Mount Washington “which groups will use the facility for training, “With our history of school groups an Australian magazine, and Tourism conferences and retreats. we wouldn’t have been able to get to keep we know it’s a perfect opportunity to do Mount Washington’s accommodations Campbell will take care of administration Mount Washington at the forefront of educational programming up there,” he were also featured on the Slopestyle for the Vancouver Island Mountain Sport major media houses.” said. Continued on page 27 BRANDING Fresh • Local • Seasonal LOGO DESIGN WEBSITE DESIGN & HOSTING SEARCH ENGIINE OPTIIMIIZATIION MAGAZINE PUBLISHING

Ronald St. Pierre CCC Open Tuesday through Saturday (11am - 9pm) 364-8th Street, Courtenay (Reservations Recommended) 250.334.2844 haversdesign.com www.localscomoxvalley.com ~ 250-338-6493 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 7 Freehold Photo: Neil Havers Proven Popular Mount Washington Alpine Resort is preparing to offer a second phase of freehold ownership sometime in the

fall of 2011.

This comes after an overwhelming

response to the first offering, which closed Dec. 23, 2010. The Resort initiated free - hold ownership proceedings last fall after coming to the realization it was necessary for ongoing growth and sustainability. “Developers are far more inclined to build on freehold land than leasehold property,” freehold sales consultant Anya Macleod said, “and future real estate Photo courtesy International Yeti Snowcave Research Council offerings by Mount Washington Ski Resort will be on this basis.” Savvy Sasquatch Learn The initial phase was to be offered to Winter Snowfall the first 100 property owners who signed From Mentoring Marmots up, or until the end of one year - Buries Records whichever came first. The 100 spots filled in four days, If “La Nina” were the words of A record snow year has meant the The car was permeated with a gamey Macleod said, catching the Resort by wisdom to follow as Mount Wash - Mount Washington sasquatch is odour, and the man reportedly had to surprise. “We had no way of gauging what ington Alpine Resort entered the coming out of hibernation a little drive the entire way back to Victoria sort of response we would get,” she said. 2010-2011 winter season, “snow” later this year.. with all the car windows open. Another 100 spots were opened for the was the ultimate understatement. Sources say some coarse brown hair initial offering, and things finally had to And some interesting evidence of The Resort had a record-breaking snow snagged in the broken door lock proves close on December 23, 2010. their existence has come to light as the year, with a total accumulation of more snow melts. It looks as though the that a sasquatch took refuge in his vehicle After an expected amount of attrition, for at least a night or two. Those who than 1,840 centimetres, which surpassed Sasquatch has adopted some of the the Resort estimates 30 per cent of its helped the man dig out his car said there the previous record of 1,835 cm in the Vancouver Island marmots’ techniques property will be converted to freehold by was a void in the snow beside the rear 1998-99 season. for tunneling to their food sources. the end of the summer, she said. They had the deepest start in Resort One cryptozoologist, said she has driver’s side door that could not be explained - however, it looked as if There are two reasons compelling history, with a mid-mountain base of 480 received three calls from visitors to the people to switch to freehold ownership, centimetres in December. Resort who came across snow caves - someone dug out the door just enough to be able to open it and climb in. she said. The old record fell in April when a two of them with tunnels visible from The practical reason is the way financial significant weather system dumped more the back. And claw or finger marks were Other sources that have traversed institutions view freehold compared to than 40 centimetres of new snow on the found scraped into the hard-packed some of the more remote alpine runs leasehold: they are stricter about lending slopes. That gave the mountain a 500 cm snow of two of the caves. since the Resort closed to skiing have said they saw tunnel entrances that came for sub-leased property, she explained. mid-mountain base. “These marks were too large to be “The snow started early. It came at its made from human fingers and too blunt out at large trees, just big enough in Leaseholds are viewed as depreciating assets diameter for a seven-foot hominid to hug and thus poor investments. heaviest in December,” Resort Director of to have been made from marmots’ Public Relations Brent Curtain said. and climb. The second reason is more emotional: teeth,” she said in an e-mail to The Snow removal crews were well So when you’re touring Mount providing a solid family legacy through Marmot Newspaper. prepared for a record snow season - but Washington this summer as the snow home ownership as opposed to leasing One tourist who flew into Victoria for not for the deluge they received over his annual Christmas trip was ru - melts, you need to ask yourself: was property. There is no guarantee the lease it really a tree well, or was it a sasquatch Christmas. From Dec. 20-29, nearly four moured to have incurred extra costs to will be renewed. den? metres of snow fell. At its peak the snow shampoo his rental car after unearthing Macleod said plans were still undecided fell at a rate of 1.5 metres in 12 hours it in a big snowdrift. as to how the second phase would be (from 8 p.m. Dec. 23 to 9 a.m. Dec. 24). offered - although the popular choice is to “As a result the alpine village and Thanks to these Visitor InfoCentres for distributing The Marmot keep it open for a certain period of time. Resort were essentially buried,” Curtain The Resort will also get information out said. No one could have been prepared for Campbell River 1-877-286-5705 287-4636 www.visitorcentre.ca earlier, so the offering will not happen in such big numbers. Alberni Valley 250-724-6535 www.avcoc.com the middle of the Christmas holiday “There were some challenges a couple of days before Christmas when we had Comox Valley 1-888-357-4471 334-3234 www.discovercomoxvalley.com season this time, she added. Proceeds from the freehold conversion three metres in four days. Cumberland 1-866-301-INFO 336-8313 www.cumberlandbc.org will be directly invested in ongoing “It was certainly a full-time job for our Duncan-Cowichan 1-888-303-3337 746-4636 www.duncancc.bc.ca improvements of Resort infrastructure, snow removal crew but I think they did a great job.” Nanaimo 1-800-663-7337 756-0106 www.tourismnanaimo.com Macleod said. Crews had to lease more equipment to Parksville 250-248-3613 www.parksvillechamber.com “It’s part of the Resort’s long-term help them deal with the snow: an articu - commitment to remaining competitive Qualicum Beach 250-752-9532 www.qualicum.bc.ca lating dump truck and another loader. Saanich Peninsula 250-656-0525 www.spcoc.org and economically sustainable in the years They were used to truck the snow off the to come.” mountain. Continued on page 27 8 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

Horseman Glacier. Summer training Mount Washington Ski Clubs Shine in 2011 provides training in conditions that allow for accelerated skill development, according to the BC Freestyle website. The alpine sports clubs based at Trimmer said. Aiva Noringseth finishing first, The Club will also have a water ramp Mount Washington Alpine Resort had Mathieu Leduc of Comox and Chelsea second and third, respectively. camp at the Blackcomb Water Ramp great winter seasons and are looking Adam of Nanaimo both stood on the The Big Air competition also saw a sea Facility in August. The camp helps forward to busy off-season activities. podium at Federation International Ski of the club’s distinctive green hoodies on athletes perfect their jumping skills and (FIS) events this season - tough events to the podium. Kyle Smith, Matt Shaw and work on fundamental air skills in a safe The Alpine Ski Club hosted three excel at, as athletes are competing against Ryan Wallace-Terry finished first, second environment. successful races on Mount Washington: BC, Alberta and the United States. Leduc and third and VI girls Sydney Bey and Athletes must qualify any inverted an under-16 event in January , a Nancy won the Apex Downhill and placed Sydney Moore finished first and second in manoeuvre at the water ramp before it can Greene Race in February and K1 (11-12) second in the Apex Super G, and was the competitive 14- to 17-year-old cate - be qualified on snow and used in compe - Provincials in March. considering an opportunity to Ptrhoatoi:n K ewlsai Dtoh nald VI RIders gory. Joseph Bergvinson finished first in tition. “The Club loves hosting events at home the national Ski Cross team the 13 and under category. Peter Stubbs had an unbelievable and inviting the Province to see our amazing over the summer. “We are super season with the Mount Washington Resort,” Head Coach John Trimmer said. im pressed with the level Freestyle Club last winter. He has been se - “It’s also nice to have the home field The VI Riders stomped of riding and skills that lected to join the BC freestyle high per - advantage.” the podium at some of their the athletes are demonstrat - formance mogul team for the 2011-2012 The Club really made the most of its home events this year. ing this year,” team spokesper - season. home field advantage, especially in the K1 Doug Liseth dominated son Kelsa Donald said. Stubbs just finished his fourth year Provincials, where young racers like Logan the Boarder Cross event in “They are focused, competing in freestyle skiing while training Frame, Kole Harle and Maja Nyman of March in the 14 - to 17-year- training hard and making with the Freestyle Club’s competitive Campbell River, Keegan McCooey of old age category, with team - incredible progress this year. team. Courtenay, Liam Gilchrist of Nanaimo and mates Ryan Wallace-Terry It has been great to see the Stubbs, 16, started his first 10-day Robbie Yelland of Victoria pulled in and Zach Allen in second Club gel together, and with training camp with the BC High Perform - an impressive haul of medals and Top 10 and third, respectively. the support of coaches, VI RIders' team member Kyle ance team in May. He will progress with a finishes. Joseph Bergvinson Smith makes a grab during the parents and athletes we are glacier mogul training camp in July and a “We would like to extend a huge thank finished second in the 13 Big Air Competition at Mount having a banner year.” water ramp camp in August at Whistler/ you to Mount Washington Resort and all and under category, while Washington Alpine Resort. The Freestyle Club will Blackcomb, then an early ski season the groomers, lefties, patrol, and of course the VI girls claimed the hold a mogul camp in July on-snow camp in November at Apex mountain managers for all their help with podium in the 12 to 17 category with at Whistler/Blackcomb , where BC Mountain Resort in Penticton. our events and day-to-day operations,” Lauren McColl, Isabella Beharrell and Freestyle maintains a mogul lane on Continued on page 28 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 9

Mountain Bike Responsibility Code Cruise aboard the MV Uchuck III a coastal passenger and freight vessel that provides numerous services Mountain biking involves the risk of injury. Common sense and to ports-of-call in Nootka, Esperanza and Kyuquot Sound. caution can reduce the risk. For your safety and the safety of others, please adhere to this code. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery 1 Ride in control and within your ability level. of Vancouver Island’s rugged West Coast You must be able to avoid other people or objects. as you tour its inlets with Get West Adventure Cruises aboard the MV 2 Stay off the lifts and trails and out of the Bike Park ALPINE STATS if your ability is impaired by drugs, alcohol or fatigue. Uchuck III, a 136-foot passenger and Summit Elevation : freight vessel providing service through 3 Wear a helmet. It is mandatory. Other protective historic Nootka, Esperanza, and Kyuquot equipment is strongly recommended. 1588m (5215 feet) Sounds. Or maybe you’re more interested in the 4 Inspect your bike or have it checked by a qualified Vertical Rise : Thei r schedule provides day and rich history of the Uchuck III, a bike mechanic before you ride. 505m (1657 feet) overnight cruises through some of converted minesweeper from WW2, and 5 Be sure you have the physical dexterity, ability and knowledge to safely load, Summer Lifts : Vancouver Island’s most spectacular the local villages it frequents. ride and unload lifts. Ask the Lift Attendant for assistance if you need it. Eagle Express, Hawk 6IX Pak scenery, perfect for a short adventure or A day trip to spectacular Friendly Cove, 6 Be aware of changing conditions on trails and features. (mountain bikers only) family vacation. better known as the birthplace of British Inspect features before use and throughout the day. Watch the day-to-day events of a Columbia, is a must to see on everybody’s 7 Stay on marked trails. Ride only in the direction indicated by trail markers. Tread Shed : working coastal vessel, explore the travel list. If you desire a longer voyage Obey all signs and warnings. Do not cut switchbacks. Keep off closed areas. Mountain Bikes and Gear shores and waterways of isolated inlets, try the 2 day adventure trips to Zeballos Rentals, Sales, Parts and Bike 8 Avoid riders ahead of you. They have the right of way. and see a variety of wildlife – black bears, or Kyuquot. Here the M.V. Uchuck III Service eagles, sea otters, Pacific dol phins, goes about delivering cargo to isolated 9 Look uphill and yield to other riders when entering a trail or starting downhill. Alpine Lodge : gray and killer whales. Take advan - marine out posts. 10 Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above. Fat Teddy’s Grill, tage of the Uchuck’s route to wet launch Located at its homeport in Gold River, 11 If you are involved in or witness a collision or accident, you must identify Altitude Sport and Gift your kayak or be dropped off at the the M.V. Uchuck III is your ticket to the yourself to the Bike Patrol or a staff member. and General Store Nootka trailhead for a four to five day West Coast. Their friendly crew and staff 12 Do not feed, provoke or approach wildlife. hiking trip along Vancouver Island’s will make your visit a memorable one. Raven Lodge : most remote and pristine coastal trail – Toll Free: 1-877-824-8253 Know the Code • Be Safety Conscious • It is Your Responsibility Strathcona Provincial without the long waitlist of the famed Park privileges will be removed for breach of code. Park Trailhead West Coast Trail. www.getwest.ca 10 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

many people who skied the area before Mount Washington Alpine Resort was built in 1978-79. People would hike up to the lodge near the summit of Mt. Becher in the southeast corner of Strathcona Provincial Park, wearing skis covered with skins for traction then remove the skins to ski. They would stay at the lodge. The lodge is gone now, and Scott had to make a trip to the historical archives at the Courtenay and District Museum for photos. “But I still remember it from when I was a kid.” Other paintings in his series include a scene from the trail on the way to Mount Albert Edward; the old Forbidden Plateau Lodge, which burned down a decade ago; the new VIMSEC; Moat Lake in Strath - cona Provincial Park; and the old forest

n service cabins, which have since been torn n Tower One safely dismantled, waiting for pickup. Photo: George Trousdell i u

Q down.

n a s Bye Bye Green Chair u Scott hopes to raise $50,000 for VIM - Maintenance and Operations George S

y b continued from page 1 Trousdell said. SEC over the next few years, and said if o t o “It will be almost the same. The chair h the first 1,000 prints and 1,000 books They will be staggered, but generally run P takes a few more people to operate and sell out, he will consider printing an - up the middle of the run, creating a number the carpets take a few less. But because other 1,000 of each. of teaching pods. Scott Paints for VIMSEC there are so many, it works out the same. “The key here is we want to develop continued from page 3 “It will definitely improve the beginner ex - Several of the original paintings this whole concept of snow play. The idea perience,” Trousdell said. “That old double Now, he is a cross-country skier who have already been sold, he said. Scott’s is to get people to come up and play in the chair is old technology and a bit of a enjoys hitting the trails near Raven Lodge. prints and art books will be available at snow, and find out it’s not intimidating,” white-knuckle ride for beginners.” Scott said he also appreciates the business Mount Washington Alpine Resort once Gibson said. The four carpets, said Gibson, will run that comes his way from people who visit the lodge is dedicated, hopefully some - The Green Zone plan has been in dis - at 80 per cent of the speed the old Green the Resort and buy his artwork. time in September, he said. cussions for a couple of years, he said. Chair did, but because they will run con - Scott spent the past six months creating Scott is also looking for more locations “We’ve always known at some point we stantly they will be more efficient. The 40 oil paintings of various scenes from his willing to carry his prints and art books would have to upgrade the beginner chairlift used to stop and start all the time, skiing childhood. The first painting in the with the understanding that they are experience. Now the time has come.” and on busy days it took a long time to get book depicts Mount Becher Lodge, which supposed to raise funds for the Mountain The new Magic Carpets won’t affect to the top of the Green Face. holds warm childhood memories for Sport and Education Centre. overall lift operations, Resort Director of

face) and selling lift tickets to families; an Mount Washington Chris Dennis autumn job, receiving stock and Special Events merchandising; and a winter job “selling continued from page 3 continued from page 5 all the stuff we received,” she says. When the family moved to the Comox “I love the change,” she says. “There are The mountain bike community will Valley from southern Alberta 17 years ago, not too many jobs you can have where also be stoked at a few more events, Dennis helped her sister make wedding you can have three different changes. And including the BC Cup Provincials Aug. dresses. She owned a coffee shop in Fanny they’re complete changes,” she says. 13-14. Last year this event drew 250 Bay for a few years, then worked at Bryan’s Dennis is always ahead of everyone else downhill and 75 cross-country riders - the clothing store in Driftwood Mall before by at least one season. Every second year best in B.C. They’ll compete on the that store fell victim to the recession. she goes to Denver, Colo. for a rep clothing Monster Mile, a course that’s guaranteed Her friend, Koya Hansen, was already show; she goes to a B.C. rep show in to be gnarly, technical and steep. working at the Resort in 2001 when Vancouver on the other years. See Jane Jump , a women’s mountain Dennis joined her at the KidZone. When “I’m making appointments now to go bike festival, is scheduled for Aug. 20-21, a maternity leave replacement job opened Chris Dennis, organizes a section of see the summer line (for 2012),” she says. wrapping up three premier weekends of in the store, Dennis applied and was summer clothing in advance of Altitude When she’s not working up the mountain, mountain biking. Sports opening. Photo by Susan Quinn hired. When the woman returned a year Dennis loves to garden at the home she The Resort will be open daily until later, the Resort kept Dennis on staff “and One young man worked for her for a shares with her sister and brother-in-law Labour Day, when the chairlift will operate the rest is kind of history.” couple of years, then returned to the in Royston. She has recently taken up on weekends only until the third week in She loves working with all the young Resort to get married. Another young quilting, too, and likes to spend time with September. people who are employed at the Resort couple , now working on building projects Toby, a young West Highland terrier. during the winter and summer seasons. in Cuba, checks in with her every once in And, true to form, Dennis is already looking “I get to meet so many amazing young awhile too. ahead - to the birth of her first grandchild people,” she says. “There are a few that in September, to daughter Erin, now living stand out through the years, and they The real beauty of her job, says Dennis, is she has three distinct roles: a summer in Cold Lake, Alta. And she already knows come back” to visit. job, operating a gift shop (Altitude’s summer what colours to buy. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 11 Forbidden Plateau & Paradise Meadows 2011 MAP & TRAIL GUIDE Strathcona Wilderness Institute offers Weekend Programs & Hikes Photo: Krista Kaptein See page 22 for details, To help with the Institute’s operational costs, a donation of $5 to $10 is suggested for the programs.

Want to enjoy the mountain flowers If you would like to help support the and plants at your own pace? Strathcona goals of SWI in any way, please visit Wilderness Institute has placed native the website at www.strathconapark.org, plant markers at numerous locations Or contact the SPWC 2011 Summer along the Centennial boardwalk. Or, visit Coordinator, Krista at 250-650-4304 the Wilderness Centre for a brochure to or [email protected] help you on your self-guided plant identification walk. Strathcona Wilderness Institute is continuing the weekend information BC Parks Map & Trail Guide Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre Photo: Krista Kaptein service at Buttle Lake in Strathcona courtesy of Rick Gibson The Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre at the Paradise Meadows trailhead has a Provincial Park. See page 13 for details. Coordinator on site every weekend during the summer. Information on trail conditions Volunteers are always welcome to help Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hours) and hiking destinations is available to park visitors. The Centre is open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at either the Wilderness Centre or the Direct: 250-338-1723 Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays, from the beginning of July to mid-September. Information Hut. A good knowledge of Volunteers also staff the Centre on occasional weekdays. ‘ Strathcona Park and its trails is essential. SPWC Rental Space The Centre is available for day rentals. The lower level is ideal for The Strathcona Park Wilderness presentations, workshops, or school groups, with meeting space for up to 30 people, a Centre at Paradise Meadows fulfills the small kitchen, and accessible washroom. Reduced rates are offered for non-profit groups vision of Strathcona Wilderness Institute: or schools – check the SWI website for info www.strathconapark.org to create, with community partners, a The Centennial Trail into Paradise Meadows from the Wilderness Centre parking Centre for programs and information area is completely wheelchair accessible. With gentle grades, this 2 km. trail is also on Strathcona Park. Assistance and suitable for seniors and families with strollers. The trail connects into the extensive donations, whether financial or in-kind, trail system leading to Battleship Lake, Lake Helen Mackenzie, and beyond. are always welcome, to help with the ongoing operations and programs of Strathcona Wilderness Institute. FAMILY DINING THAT’S WELL WORTH THE DRIVE!

While exploring the Comox Valley take time to visit the vibrant seasidetown of Comox. Enjoy a stroll along the oceanside boardwalk , browse boutique shops and quench your thirst or appetite in an array of cafes and restaurants. Savour our home made soups, sauces and gravies. And best of all, it’s all within a two block radius. Enjoy our locally grown beef burgers and roasts . Treat yourself to our home made desserts. Kids Play Area & Patio • Seniors’ Menu Open Daily 7am - 9pm 2601 Clie Avenue, Courtenay, BC 250-334-8087 www.platescatering.com Store: 250-338-0101 Service: 250-338-6553 Eatery & Catering Co. www.comoxbythesea.com Open 7 Days A Week 278 N. Isl. Hwy. Courtenay 12 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 21

Photo: Neil Havers

Raven Lodge Paradise Meadows To Alpine Forbidden Plateau Toilets Hiking Distances Trailhead Ski Resort (in kilometres) Paradise Meadows Camping Trail Centennial Loop Trail Ranger Station 0 Rossiter Route 00 0 In Case of Emergency... From Albert Edward 1 0 Lake 0 Paradise Meadows 0 1 0 To Courtenay • Contact Park Facility Operator in the area. 2 Loop Trail Augerpoint route (not shown on map) Parking Park Boundary 1 Helen Mackenzie Location of Park Facility Operators may be Distance: 25 km (one way) Core Area Battleship Lake Loop Trail posted on the notice board at the ranger cabin. Suggested time: 3 days • Phones are located at Mount Washington. An extended route through to Buttle Divers • In case of emergency, Phone 911 Harris Lake. From the summit of Albert Edward Lake Lake • To report a forest fire, dial 0 and ask for descend it's southwest ridge to the 00 1-800-663-5555 12 drainage divide above Norm Creek and Maps and Guidebook Ralph Lake. Continue up to Ruth Masters Battleship Scale 1:50:000 Nat. Topographic Series Lake (local name) and above to the sad - Lake Lake dle southwest of Augerpoint Mountain. Helen Mackenzie -92 F/11 Forbidden Plateau 1 Continue southwest along the ridge to a 4 Kooso -92 F/12 Buttle Lake Simms 0 0 L Special Regulations high point of 1760 m before descending L MOUNT Hiking Trails III Central and 0 Within the Core Area camping is only a long ridge above Shark Lake. Continue BROOKS 20 Northern Vancouver Island. Sunrise 1 permitted at these designated campsites: northwest along route to reach the begin - Lake MOUNT Lady Lake Helen Mackenzie For Further Info ning of the Auger-point Trail. This trail ELMA Lake Kwai Lake 0 • See Park Facility Operators or go online to 120 00 descends steeply for 1400 m before arriv - Hike along boardwalk along side high alpine wetlands and lakes with Mount Washington ever 10 Circlet Lake JUTLAND 0 K www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/strath ing on the Parkway at Buttle Lake. present in the background. Be sure to wear suitable footwear and bringyour own water along. Amphitheatre 0 No campfires allowed in core area MOUNTAIN 2 L 1 STRATA Croteau K No mountain bikes L K The following guidelines will help MOUNTAIN Pets must be on a leash and under Routes Garbage - Help keep the back grounds. All drinking water should 1 to ensure that the Forbidden Plateau 4 control at all times 0 McPhee L Hairtrigger 0 Kwai country clean. Pack out all garbage and be boiled or purified prior to con - Whiskey L K Please stay off revegetated areas These routes are suitable for experienced hikers. area remains pristine for all who 1600 Meadows L Murray please pick up any litter you see. Please sumption. Please avoid swimming in 1 Thank you 2 1 Circlet Lake People using these routes should have map and com - 0 4 Meadows venture there. 0 0 these areas as it may contaminate the 0 pass skills and be prepared for inclement weather. do not use outhouses for trash receptacles. Mariwood Pearse water supply. It is also important to Gem 00 L Hiking Trails - Please stay on Pets - Please keep your pet on a leash at L 12 use the toilets and grey water pits L From Circlet Lake designated trails, stay off revegetated all times. Free running pets can harm Netuts L provided to keep these pollutants areas and avoid taking short cuts. 1 Mt. Albert Edward 2093m other animals, irritate other visitors and 0 from entering the lake. 0 McKenzie Lake 0 Elevation gain: 935m • Distance: 6.5 km can be harmed by wild animals. Do not MT 0 L Camping - Designated camping 60 Beautiful Panther Safety - T o avoid bear conflicts REGAN 1 Johnston Suggested time to summit: 5 hours sites are located at Lake Helen Mackenzie, allow your pet to swim in the lakes as Lake whil e camping , never leave food, Cruickshank Lake Douglas Follow signs towards Albert Edward from Kwai, Circlet and McKenzie-Douglas this could contaminate drinking water Canyon L garbage or toilet articles in your tent . MT Lookout Circlet Lake intersection. Trail climbs steeply for lakes . Please use the tent pads and toilets sources. ALBERT Please use pack sack hangers provided first 3 km. Once the first ridge has been reached where provided. If a tent pad is unavail - Groups - Larger groups of people tend EDWARD Moat Lake at designated campgrounds. Hikers ICEFIEL D To look for route leading South and follow for 2 km. able choose a site that has exposed soil to concentrate use in an area and cause McKenzie Wood should make noise when approaching Elev. Meadows extensive damage to the fragile vegeta - 2093m 0 Mountain It’s another 1.5 km to the summit. or will not easily be impacted. 120 Parking Lot tion. To reduce these impacts, we recom - blind corners to wa rn off bears and 12 10.7 km 00 Castle Crag 1760m Fires - Campfires are prohibited. mend that group size be restricted to ten other animals. Elevation gain: 620m • Distance: 6.3 km Please pack a campstove for cooking. or less people. Where this is not possi - Hope L Mountain weather can change without Suggested time: 5 hours Cache your food! ble, the larger group should be split into warning, be prepared. Take spare, warm Route begins at the southeast end of Moat Lake. BC Parks has installed new metal food smaller groups which should travel and clothing and rain gear. It is advisable to MOUNT CASTLECRAG Follow route to the small col west of the sum - caches at Lake Helen MacKenzie, Kwai Lake if possible camp in different locations. leave an itinerary of your trip with a FRINK MTN Charity mit. It's a steep scramble over loose rock to and Circlet Lake campsites. Water - Drinkin g water i s available friend or relative. Lake Elev.1760m the top. Caution: This route crosses boulder from the lakes at all designated camp - fields and slopes with loose rocks.

Island-style Spo rts and Fashions Seventeen wounded, injured and ill veterans from the Canadian and Australian armed forces skied, boarded, and EExplorexplore conquered the slopes at Mount Washington during the HHornorne LLakeake Est. 1990 week-long event. “I had an amazing time. And the capabil - Affordable Family Holidays! ities of your program amaze me!” said CF veteran Jen Suitor. Voted “BEST NATURAL “Last week was the experience of a lifetime.” OUTDOOR SITE IN BC” Opportunities continue to grow each season with The second Sunday in February is the Herb Bradley By Attractions Enjoy riverfront views in downtown Adaptive Snowsports on Mount Washington Canada Coca-Cola Classic (HBCCC), VISAS’s annual fundraiser. Courtenay. Open year-round, your Teams of four head down a slalom course to race against FINE ITALIAN CUISINE The Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports Comox Valley Recreation starts at The Cona. their own guestimated time. It’s a day filled with fun activi - (VISAS) wrapped up its 23rd season, providing snowsport Dine on the Deck ties thanks to the strong support of team participation, our instruction to those with physical and mental disabilities. SSpectacularpectacular CCampingamping Short stroll to Comox Marina sponsors and the community. The 23rd HBCC raised over Apart from the incredible amount of snowfall on Mount FFamilyamily AAdventuredventure CCampsamps Dorms, privates Open for Lunch & Dinner $14,000 to go towards new adaptive equipment and FASHIONS & EQUIPMENT FOR THE BE ACH, Washington this winter, our major highlights included the & family suite. Minutes to Filberg Lodge DOWNTOWN, ON THE MOUNTAIN OR ON THE WATER VISAS’s instructional program. SSummerummer KKidsids CCampsamps annual Learn to Ski Festival held in early January. A record Beds from SSKIKI • K AYAY AKAK • SSURFURF • SSWIMWIM • SSKK ATETE From December to the beginning of April – seven days a DDailyaily CCaveave TToursours Your hosts: Wendy & Bill Meade number of new students signed up for this year’s five day $23 per night. week, over 417 students were involved the instructional Canoes event - for a total number of 37 students and 61 instructors. adaptive snowsports program. And thanks to the commit - KayKayaksaks & Reservations Recommended Students came from all over the island and the mainland to (for 6 or more) ment of Peter Gibson and his team at Mount Washington, share in a mountain experience, and learn to alpine or PaddlePaddle BBoatsoats Tel: 250-890-7575 along with our 80 volunteer instructors, makes VISAS one The VISAS program has grown in the last 16 years to a strong +1 (877) 490-CONA (2662 nordic ski, and snowboard. No matter the physical or men - of the most acclaimed adaptive programs in North America. and dedicated team of over 75 volunteers/instructors, and Just one hour south of Courtenay! Ph. +1 (250) 331-0991 140 Port Augusta, Comox tal challenges they had, everyone was able to participate at 440 Anderton Avenue, Courtenay SSpecialtypecialty SSkiki & KayakKayak ShopShop through the generous support from Peter Gibson, General Online Reservations • www.hornelake.com TTOURINGOURING • RECREATIONALRECREATIONAL • WWHITEWATERHITEWATER their level of ability. To find out how to get involved visit: www.visasweb.ca and Beside the 5th St. Bridge Manager and his team at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. Phone: 250.248.7829 333333 FifthFifth Street,Street, CourtenayCourtenay • 2250-338-884450-338-8844 Another highlight was the 4th annual Veteran’s Festival. join us online at our VISAS Facebook and Flickr pages. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 13 Buttle Lake

Strathcona Provincial Park western shoreline. Buttle Lake Information Hut 2011 MAP & A pleasant white sand beach and a playground Run voluntarily by the TRAIL GUIDE for children are available s at Buttle Lake Camp- r Strathcona Wilderness Institute e v a H

ground. There is a l

Buttle Lake is easily accessible in i e

Do you have questions about N

concrete boat launch ramp : o

forty five minutes from Campbell t o

Strathcona Park and its fascinating h River on Hwy. 28. The drive takes within two kilometres, P plants, wildlife or history? and also an undeveloped Are you interested in taking an you alongside the Campbell and Spectacular Buttle Lake with gravel launch nearby. The lake levels are Mount Myra showing in the background. easy day hike or exploring some Upper Campbell Lakes ending with controlled by hydro electric dams and of the challenging back country? views of the expansive waters and tend to be low during the winter but Come to the campgrounds at anytime Strathcona Wilderness Institute is pleased dramatic mountains of the Buttle normally rise for the summer months. as there are almost always sites available to provide all visitors with a wide range of Lake corridor. Ralph River Campground is shaded by on a first come-first serve basis at both information about BC’s oldest Provincial the graceful beauty of an ancient forest of major campgrounds. If you would like to Park, and one of our largest. The beauty of this peaceful place will cedar, hemlock and fir trees underneath make a reservation at Buttle Lake Camp - take your breath away, and you will find Maps, trail updates, visitor service details which you will likely see the resident ground call Discover Camping at 1-800- and more! Available every weekend from great opportunities for camping and blacktail buck grazing. This peaceful 689-9025, or link up to the website at June 17 to September 18, 2011. recreational pursuits. campground borders both the lake and a www.discovercamping.ca. People come to fish for trout, and to lovely clear river, which is at times alive Visit us at the Park Information Hut: To book Driftwood Bay Group swim, canoe, kayak, board sail, picnic, with spawning trout. It’s a popular spot 300 m. south of Highway 28 at the Buttle Lake Campground call 250-474-1336 sunbathe and waterski on the 25 km of for both fishermen and hikers of all levels. bridge turn-off to Gold River, at the Park Head - or fax 250-478-0376. quarters. Watch for the signs! lake, while others enjoy the easy and Many of the trails are easily accessible interesting nature walks, or more from Ralph River Campground. BC Parks Map & Trail Guide HOURS OF OPERATION challenging back country hikes. Local Please Note: All tributaries to Buttle courtesy of Rick Gibson June 17 to September 18, 2011 guides and club members rock climb at Lake are closed to angling. Fri : 3pm ~ 8pm Sat : 1 0am ~ 6pm Crest Creek Crags. Some visitors just sit Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hours) Sun : 10am ~ 5pm Mon : 10am ~ 4pm quietly in the shade of ancient trees and There are interesting trails to explore Direct: 250-338-1723 (holidays only) enjoy the fresh air. from less strenuous and more challenging , In poor weather, or if there are few visitors, Camping facilities include 85 sites at and each with unique features to enjoy. the closing times may be earlier. Buttle Lake Campground on the lake at Opportunities abound for everyone the North end, and 75 sites at Ralph throughout the Buttle Lake corridor. For Hours of operation will be posted at: River Campground with both lake and further information refer to the map on • All campgrounds • At the ‘Elk Portal’ the next page. If you are at Buttle Lake go • Trail head information kiosks river access at the south end of the lake. to park headquarters, where volunteers • Various locations in Gold River Driftwood Bay Campground , an • Some Island Visitor Centres excellent facility for groups, is located from the Strathcona Wilderness Institute • SWI website at www.strathconapark.org separately on the northern end of the will assist you Friday, Saturday and lake. You will also find simple wilderness Sunday. Check out the Parks web site at Gerry Roberts ~ Volunteer Operator camping opportunities for boaters on the www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks.

Photo: Krista Kaptein

STRATHCONA PARK LODGE & OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTRE strathcona.bc.ca 250.286.3122 # Vancouver Island, BC, Canada 14 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

NOTE: Cell phones don’t work in the Buttle Lake area BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR and the nearest public phone is in Gold River, 40 km west on Highway. 28.

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NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND MINE Closedlosed uuntilntil ffuurtherrther nnotice.otice.

THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 15

July 1 • Thrifty Foods Family Fun Day July 16 • Dreaming of Vancouver Island Aug 4 • Lucky Thursdays DH Race Series Head up the mountain to celebrate Canada (10:30 am) Join us for Bedtime Stories, this Calling all locals!! This is the ultimate fun Day with some fun games for the kids! presentation is happening at the outdoor am - DH race series sponsored by Island favourites Lucky Lager and Dodge City Cycles. For $5 July 1 • Clean Out the Shed Sale phitheatre at the Paradise Meadows trailhead. you get your race registration, a very Tread Shed and Altitude offer great July 16-17 • Roots Rocky Lucky beverage, and some great savings on everything left in stock. Reggae The Rocky Mountain door prizes from our awesome spon - July 3 • Passholders BBQ team brings pro riders and the sors! Continues Aug. 11, 18 & 25. Time to get together and share tall tales of the latest bike to demo. Get free Aug 5-6 • Bearclaw Invitational winter that was and enjoy the BBQ! shwag and high fives from the best riders on the planet! This event will attract the best freeriders in the world . The newly Bearclaw Invitational July 17 • Island Series built Bearclaw Invitational course Jump Camp #1 Ride our dirt (in the Bike Park) will be permanent. Aug 26-27 • Wine & Food Festival jump park and throw down for Sample a wide selection of wines, ciders fame and glory.....or at least for Aug 13-14 • BC Cup Provincial and gourmet food from Vancouver Island bragging rights! Finals The BC Cup invites the and beyond. Tasty food samples, live music, Continues Aug. 28 & Sept. 4. province's best DH and XC racers and stunning views will be available for to Mount Washington . July 18-22 • Learn To Ride Week Discounted all in attendance to enjoy. Aug 20 & 21 • See Jane Jump July 8 • Suds & Scotch Festival If you like packages available throughout the week. Sept. 3 - 4 • Fall Freak Out Darcy Turenne hosts North America's beer or Scotch - Mount Washington Suds & Mount Washington Bike Park. July 23 • Gut Buster Sprint to the Summit premier Women's Mountain Bike Festival Scotch Festival is the place for you! Suds & Ascent Test your mettle, and reach a goal, on her home turf! Sept 18 • Final Day of Operations Scotch is a tasting experience offering guests by running up our challenging See you when the snow flies! a chance to sample spirits and interact with Give'r Trail, straight to the experts to learn more about the beverages summit of Mount Washington! they offer. Entertainment will be provided For up-to-date Mount Washington event information go to www.milehigh.ca by the Tina Jones Band.

FFinestinest qqualityuality llingerie,ingerie, ppleasuleasurree toystoys & lubeslubes forfor The Westerly Hotel yyourour AAlpinelpine GGetawayetaway & CONVENTION CENTRE aatt MMountount Washington.Washington. IT ALL HAPPENS AT THE WESTERLY HOTEL!

Toll Free: 1-800-668-7797 or 250-338-7741 [email protected] The Pub, Lounge, Pool Restaurant and more. Romance Shop Courtenay • 589 Clie Avenue • 250-338-0669 Victoria • 2018 Douglas Street • 250-380-0069 Duncan • 80b Trunk Road • 250-597-0122 www.theromanceshop.org 1590 Clie Avenue, Courtenay, BC, V9N 2K4 ww w.thewesterlyhotel.ca 16 THE MOUNTTHE WASHINGTON MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • WINTER MARMOT / SPRING • SUMMER2008/2009 / FALL 2011

For Up-To-Date Rental Accommodations: www.mountwashingtonaccommodation.com Scan for Listings!

Drive to, ski-in, ski-out location on Foster's Place.

Hot tub! Ideal for small or large groups up to 30 people. John and Sue 250-335-0350

Ski In / Ski Out

Suzi: 250-923-9231

Your Winter Or Summer Retreat #8-1208 Fosters Place A tastefully decorated & comfortable family home Drive To ~ Ski In/out ~ Jacuzzi ~ Sauna ~ Fireplace Well maintained Hot Tub ~ Inside Parking ~ Appliances

Al: 250-724-4183 www3.telus.net/fosters8

pool table 3 bedroom heated pool Great view tv.dvd.wifi New décor hot tub.sauna indoor parking

PLEASE NOTE: • The above info is current as of June 15/11 • These privately owned chalets and condominiums are rented out by their owners and have their own features and contacts as listed above. • Royal LePage in the Comox Valley and The Marmot have no interest, financial or otherwise in these accommodations and assume no responsibility fo them in any way. • Parking at Mount Washington can be a challenge in snowy conditions. • PLEASE follow the rules of the property you are staying at in regards to parking. • If you are parking in an other property’s parking space or on the road, you will be towed without notice.

Advertise in The Marmot

FOR ADVERTISING SALES IN THE ACCOMMODATION GUIDE OR THE MARMOT Please contact WENDY WOODLEY 250-897-3678 or [email protected] 15 years Experience on Mount Washington

Mount Washington Phone Directory Altitude Sport & Gift . . 250-334-5721 Ambulance ...... 911 • General Construction Catering ...... 250-334-5757 • Exterior Envelopes Central Res...... 1-888-231-1499 • Metal Roofing Fat Teddy’s Grill ...... 250-334-5716 • Interior Finishing General Store ...... 250-334-5745 • Painting Police EMERGENCY ...... 911 Police NON-EMERGENCY . . . . 250-338-1321 Raven Lodge ...... 250-334-5764 Real Estate (Rick Gibson) ...... 250-338-1723 Resort Info ...... 250-338-1386 Security ...... 250-792-1204 Ron deBoer • 250-897-2678 • [email protected] Utility EMERGENCY . . . 250-334-5737 18 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • WINTER 2009~SPRING 2010

All New Units Are Freehold! 1, 2 & 3 BDRM Prices Starting from $184,000 Over 85% Sold!

www.rickgibson.ca

ALPINEA ROAD LP IN E RO AD

Future Magic Carpet Area

81 13 75 13 56 13 2 5 6 13 4 13 7 8 9 0 1 1 1 12 13 14 0 0 0 0 1 0 9 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 9 7 6 5 4 0 0 2 1 1 9 9 9 9 3 2 10 0 0 0 10 9 9 9 0 9 8 0 0 9 8 8 7 6 50 0 0 0 89 9 9 9 9 8 8 8 2 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 6 5 4 9 9 9 7 71 70 6 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 9 8 7 6 0 0 9 9 9 9 9 3 2 1 9 9 9 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 5 5 5 5 9 8 9 9 9 0 9 8 9 9 9 9 4 4 9 8 8 87 6 5 4 8 8 8 75 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 0 9 8 75 6 2 1 0 9 8 6 6 6 6 6 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 4 20 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR CAMPGROUNDS TRAIL AND CAMPGROUND INFORMATION RALPH RIVER CAMPGROUND • Ancient forest, lake and river. The trails described here are well defined and easily accessible. The trail heads are marked with signs. • Gates are open May 15 to September 30th. There are other, less defined trails and routes which are not shown on this map. Distances, elevation • Picnic tables, fire rings, water changes and hiking times are for ONE WAY only and are approximate. Fires are not permitted in pumps and pit toilets. • Fee: $16.00 per party per night, n

Strathcona Park except in an authorized BC Parks steel fire ring. Wear sturdy boots and carry rain gear i e t $8.00 for extra vehicles. p

and a sweater, even in the summer months, because weather can change suddenly and dramatically in a K

• B.C Senior Citizens $8.00 per couple per night a the mountains. Please preserve the delicate alpine environment by staying on trails. Use caution on trails t s i

r (shoulder season only). K

and be aware of snow, fallen trees and other natural hazards. : o

t • Firewood for sale by the PFO. o

For further information about trails and wilderness areas visit the volunteer information hut at Park h

P • Reservations are NOT taken, however the Headquarters, or ask park rangers. The Strathcona Wilderness Institute can be contacted for more campground is rarely full. detailed route information at 250-650-4304 (e-mail: [email protected]). Topographical maps and Indian Pipe near Buttle Lake guidebooks can be obtained locally at sports stores in Campbell River or Courtenay. If you wish to travel BUTTLE LAKE CAMPGROUND • Sand beach and playground. on less defined routes please be well prepared with a map and compass, proper equipment, and experience AUGER POINT (1) Loop Trail • Three easy nature trails begin here. in wilderness travel. Length: 400 metres. Time: 15 minutes. This Fish in Darkis Lake. forest is recovering from the fire of 1982. No camping. • Gates open May 15 to September 30th. Please let a friend know where you plan to go and when you plan to return. Picnicking facilities at trail-head and • Picnic tables, fire rings, a canoe and kayak launch access for Marble Mead - water pumps and pit toilets. The STRATHCONA WILDERNESS INSTITUTE is a non-profit organization whose mission is ows trailhead. to inspire awareness, appreciation and stewardship of the natural world through education and • Fee: $16.00 per party/night. $8.00 for extra vehicles. participation. The institute will provide a volunteer information service on weekends at park MARBLE MEADOWS (3) • B.C Senior Citizens $8.00 per couple per night headquarters at Buttle Lake from June 17 through to September 18, 2011. Length: 6.6 km. Time: 4-5 hours to the Alpine (shoulder season only). meadows. Elevation change: 1,250 metres. Steep, • Firewood for sale by the PFO. The FRIENDS OF STRATHCONA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect, preserve some bluffs. Trail starts at Phillips Creek marine • Some campsites can be reserved ahead of time [email protected] campsite on Buttle Lake. Access by boat from Auger and promote Strathcona Provincial Park. by contacting Discover Camping at Pt. or Karst Creek day use areas. Be aware of sub - Box 3404, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 5N5 1-800-689-9025 or by going online at merged stumps in the lake. Random camping is al - www.discovercamping.ca lowed in the meadows. Marble Meadows features wonderful viewpoints, alpine meadows and limestone CREST LAKE PICNIC AREA BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR formations. • Shaded picnic area, day use only. • Picnic tables and pit toilet, close to the lake. KARST CREEK BOAT LAUNCH RAMP, HIKING TRAILS, BOAT LAUNCH RAMPS, AND CAMPGROUNDS • Access left off Highway 28 heading West. TRAIL AND PICNIC AREA (1) • Short distance from Crest Mountain Trailhead. The trails are graded as follows: (1) Easiest (2) Moderate (3) Difficult A good concrete ramp located 4 km from Ralph Trail conditions: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/strath/ River Campground, and accessible from the West - DRIFTWOOD BAY GROUP CAMPGROUND min Rd. There is a large open grassy area plus sev - • Private, covered shelter with woodstove eral picnic tables and fire pits, and tables, large grass field, fire pit, pit TENNENT LAKE (3) and lots of room for parking. Karst Creek trail toilets, wheel chair access pit toilet, water Closed until further notice Buttle Lake is 1.3 km. It is no longer a loop walk due to the pump, swimming area. Length: 4 km. Estimated time 2-4 hours with an bridge being out. Time: 45 minutes. Observe Karst • Fee: $16.00 per party per night. elevation change of 840 metres. Trail access is from geological formations such as sink-holes with dis - $8.00 for extra vehicles. the parking lot at the mine. Walk past the yellow appearing and reappearing streams. • Firewood for sale by the PFO. gate on the gravel road for 1 km and across a bridge No camping. • Fee for non profit youth and school groups to the start of the trail which is a rough, rocky, steep $50.00 per night. old roadbed. Old-growth forest to sub-alpine. There WILD GINGER (1) Loop Trail • Tel. 250-474-1336 to book the campground. is an undefined route to access Mt. Myra here. Ten - Length: 800 metres. Time: 20 minutes. Access is Photo: Neil Havers nant Lake is dammed. Random camping is permitted. across the road from Ralph River Campground. The BACKCOUNTRY & MARINE CAMPING FEE trail follows the Ralph River. No camping. • $5.00 per night per person 13 years or older. ELK RIVER TRAIL (2-3) BEDWELL LAKE (3) Length: 11 km. Suggested time: 12 hours? Eleva - Length: 6 km. Drive over the Thelwood River bridge SHEPHERD CREEK (1) Loop Trail tion change: 600 metres. Trail starts at Hwy. 28 and at the south end of Buttle Lake, and turn left imme - Length: 1.5 km. Suggested time: 1 hour and 15 min - follows the Elk River Valley for 10 km before climb - diately onto the Jim Mitchell Road for 6.8 km. This utes. Access is across the road from Ralph River ing up to Landslide Lake. Bare rock sections. Camp is a rough gravel road not suitable for small vehicles. Campground. A shady walk along the Ralph River in designated camping areas only. Trail elevation change: 600 metres. Time 3-4 hours. then ascending to pass a lively marsh. See dogwood CREST MOUNTAIN TRAIL (3) Features river valley and old growth forest then trees in the spring. Closed until further notice rocky out cropping and a sub-alpine environment No camping. with excellent hiking and views. Camp in designated Length: 5 km. Time: 3-4 hours to the tarn. Steep PRICE CREEK TRAIL (2-3) with an elevation change of 1,250 metres. Caution areas at Baby Bedwell and Bedwell Lakes. Be aware of bears. Due to storm damage two wheel drive access Suggested time: 3-4 hours. Trail not maintained and required on single log creek crossing (the last good may proove difficult for inexperienced hikers. Trail - water). The snow stays late into the year on top. is difficult and motor homes are not recommended. Published for your convenience by Rick Gibson head can be accessed near the Thelwood Creek of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley. Random camping allowed. CREST CREEK CRAGS Bridge. Originally the only access route to Cream Technical climbing only. Picnic facilities. Climbers Lake and still only suitable for Advanced Hikers, FLOWER RIDGE TRAIL (3) If you are looking for more information , wish can explore a number of rocky bluffs in this area this trail can make a pleasant day hike through vary - Length: 6 km. Time to the subalpine ridge: 3-5 to advertise, or want to submit information in hours. Steep with an elevation change of 1,040 me - which is easily accessible from alongside Highway ing timbered areas if you turn around at or before future issues please refer to these contacts: tres. The trail begins at Westmin Road, climb an ad - 28. Climbers using the area do so at their own risk. the log crossing. The route beyond this log crossing ditional 200 metres from the top of trail to flat It is each climber’s responsibility to climb safely and is extremely rough and steep and snow lingers late Information: [email protected] ground for tents. Poor water. Panoramic views. ensure that they have the necessary skills to do so. into the summer. Camping and fires are not permitted. Editorial: Camping possible at halfway point. LOWER MYRA FALLS (1) Susan Quinn PHILLIPS RIDGE TRAIL TO ARNICA LAKE (2-3) LADY FALLS (1) Length: 800 metres. Time: 30 minutes. Steep descent. Sales & Circulation: Wendy Woodley Length: 900 metres. Time: 20 minutes. The trail Enjoy several beautiful water cascades. Length: 6.5 km. Time: 2-5 hours with an 250-897-3678 or [email protected] elevation change of 800 metres. This is a well graded starts at Hwy. 28. Enjoy the cool spray from the falls. Use caution when approaching the creek, and su - trail beginning at North Vancouver Island mine. Ob - Picnic facilities at trailhead. No camping. pervise small children. No camping. Design/Production: Havers Design serve old growth forest, a waterfall, and alpine ELK VIEWPOINT (1) BUTTLE LAKE BOAT LAUNCH Printed in Canada meadows. Designated camping area. Length: 400 metres. Time: 15 minutes. The trail A good, recently lengthened concrete launch. Lo - To read past issues of The Marmot go to UPPER MYRA FALLS (2) starts at Hwy. 28 and accesses a viewing platform cated 1 km south of the bridge at the junction and Length: 3.3 km from the parking lot past the yellow where you may be able to see Vancouver Island’s only 1.5 km from Buttle Lake Campground . No www.milehigh.ca gate. Drive through the mine area to find the park - unique Roosevelt elk. No camping. camping. The launch provides immediate access to the Rainbow Island marine campsites. ing lot. Time 1 ~ 1 1/2 hours. Elevation change: 100 LUPIN FALLS (1) Loop Trail metres. Trail follows gravel road for approx. 800 me - Length: 800 metres. Time: 15 minutes. Access from FORBIDDEN PLATEAU tres to the sign. Large trees. Views of Mt. Myra and a Westmin Road. Walk a circular trail through a cool AND PARADISE MEADOWS waterfall. No camping. Use caution due to winter forest to the waterfalls. No camping. Picnic facilities Refer to a separate flyer in “The Marmot” publica - storm damage. at the trail-head and a canoe and kayak launch ac - tion for information about this area which is acces - cess for Wolf River and Titus Mt. marine campsites. sible from Mount Washington. 22 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 Strathcona Wilderness 2011 Programs Institute at Paradise Meadows Please remember to prepare for all weather conditions and to tread lightly in the park. Monday July 4, 1 pm: Centennial Event Sunday August 7, 9 am: Nature Walk; Insects n i e t

p Ecological Reserve Warden Day : Presentation on Identify and explore sub-alpine ecology with a K

a t Comox Lake Bluffs Ecological Reserve with volunteer naturalist Tyler Johns. s i r K

: warden & botanist Helen Robinson. Pre-register: o t

o Sunday August 7, 1 pm: Nature Talk & Walk h

P [email protected] or 250-650-4304 “The Four Storey Forest” Explore the working of an Sunday July 10, 1 pm: Nature Walk; Spring Flora individual tree and the collective energy of the forest & Fauna Early plants & birds of Paradise Meadows with forester and author Harold Macy. with expert naturalist Betty Brooks. Saturday August 13, 9 am: (Level 2 Hike) Croteau Saturday July 16, 10:30 am: Centennial Event Lake 6 hour hike with Robin & Jennifer Harrison Parks Day; Seeds & Salt Theatre Company of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Entertaining historical theatre for all ages. Cake and Sunday August 14, 1 pm: Nature Walk Mid-Sum - refreshments at noon, community displays all day. mer Flowers Experience the beauty of a sub-alpine 3 pm: Mice, Marmots & Mammoths Strathcona meadow with bilingual (German/English) botanist Park Mammals by Dave Nagorsen of Mammalia Fred Constabel. Biological Consulting. Pre-register: [email protected] or 250-650-4304 Sunday August 21, 1 pm: Nature Walk Sub-Alpine Birds & Insects Explore Paradise Ponds with birder Sunday July 17, 1 pm: Centennial Event and entomologist Terry Thormin. Alpine Ecology & the VI White-tailed Ptarmigan: by Kathy Martin of the Centre for Applied Alpine Studies Sunday August 21: Centennial Event Discover the many natural features of Strathcona Park! at UBC. Pre-register: [email protected] Family Fun Day for Every Body Join us on weekends through the summer, for a series of programs or 250-650-4304 An Accessible Wilderness Day. presented by the Strathcona Wilderness Institute, a non-profit charity. More details www.awsociety.org Special Note for persons with mobility issues: Sunday July 24, 1 pm: Nature Walk; Ethnobotany Saturday August 27, 9 am: (Level 3 Hike) Mt. Allan Paradise Meadows Centennial Loop Trail is wheelchair accessible! Interesting and useful plants of Paradise Meadows with local ethnobotanist Gwyn Sproule. Brooks 8 hour hike with Steve and Marlene Smith of To assist SWI with operational costs, donations for all programs the Strathcona Wilderness Institute. Moderately Saturday July 30, 10 am: (Level 1 Hike) Lake Helen are greatly appreciated ($5 to $10 is suggested). strenuous, off-trail bushwhacking. Dogs on leash OK. Mackenzie 4 hour hike with Mandy Vaughan of the Pre-register: [email protected] Nature Walks & Talks Two to three hour nature walks & talks on nature themes. Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Dogs on leash OK. or 250-650-4304 Level 1 Hikes Two to four hour guided hikes for all ages. Sunday July 31, 1pm: Centennial Event Sunday, September 28, 10 am: Art & Nature Talk; Level 2 Hikes Five to seven hour guided hikes for intermediate hikers. Plants & Fungi with a Fun-Guy by Andy MacKinnon, and Walk 'Great Photo-Ops in Paradise Meadows Level 3 Hikes Eight to ten hour guided hikes for fit hikers. Research Ecologist & co-author, "Plants of Coastal BC". Look for interesting subjects & compositions (no cam - Centennial Events Special guest presentations for Strathcona Park’s 100th year. Pre-register: [email protected] era needed) with nature photographer Chris Carter. or 250-650-4304 No pets please on all nature walks and hikes, unless otherwise noted. Sunday, August 28, 1 pm: Centennial Event Monday August 1, 10 am: (Level 1 Hike) Battleship Strathcona Park History Stories of Strathcona Park All programs start at the Strathcona Park Lake 3 hour hike with Kate Pierce of the Comox with Lindsay Elms of the Strathcona Wilderness Wilderness Centre at Paradise Meadows. District Mountaineering Club. Institute. The Centre is located at the BC Parks parking lot at the Paradise Meadows trailhead, next to Mount Washington’s Saturday August 6, 9 am: (Level 2 Hike) Mt. Elma Saturday September 3, 8 am: (Level 3 Hike) Raven Lodge. To get there: follow Inland Island Highway heading north from Courtenay or south from Campbell River; 7 hour hike with Heather and Rolf Kellerhals of the Amphitheatre Lake and Sid’s Cabin take Exit 130: Strathcona Parkway. Follow the paved road and signs to Raven Lodge where you’ll find ample parking. Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Moderately 10 hour hike with William Wright of the Comox Remember to dress for the weather and wear proper footwear. Bring water, snack or lunch, sunscreen, and bug spray. strenuous, some off-trail bushwhacking. Pre-register: District Mountaineering Club. 25 km, 1000 m. If you are setting out on your own expedition, visit the Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre for trail information or to [email protected] or 250-650-4304 elevation gain. Strenuous, some off-trail terrain. obtain maps or books. Pre-register: [email protected] or 250-650-4304 The Wilderness Centre will be open from July 1 to September 11 Sunday September 4, 1 pm: Art & Nature Talk and (9 am - 4 pm Saturdays, Sundays, holiday Mondays, and many weekdays) Dates may be extended depending Walk - 'Image Hunting With Pencils & Brushes' on volunteers. Check the blog strathconapark.blogspot.com for the most up-to-date information. Bring the media of your choice for an excursion into the meadows with watercolour artist Clive Powsey. Monday September 5, 10 am: (Level 1 Hike) Lake Helen Mackenzie 4 hour hike with Mandy Vaughan of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Dogs on leash OK. For more Wilderness Centre program details contact the Summer Coordinator at [email protected] For the most up-to-date program schedule visit the blog strathconapark.blogspot.com n n i i e e t t p p a a K K

a a t t s s i i r r K K

: : o o t t o o h h P P THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 23

COASTLINE Unidentified Lying Objects? BROADCASTING LTD. is a locally owned and operated You may be aware of some odd- digital broadcast Cablevision looking objects that landed on the system serving Mount Washington. slopes of Mount Washington this 2 Program Guide spring. But those strange PVC 3 CBC North pipe concoctions that look like in - 4 Mount Washington Real Estate struments left behind by the Blue 5 ABC KOMO Seattle Man Group are actually marmot 6 CBS KIRO Seattle feeders. Really? Yes, really. 7 KVOS Bellingham 8 ITV The Vancouver Island Marmot Recov - 9 NBC - King ery Foundation is testing to see if supple - 10 Mile High Mount Washington mental feeding of Vancouver Island Community Channel marmots during years of extreme weather 11 FOX-KCPQ Seattle conditions, like this year, will improve 12 BCTV Vancouver breeding results. 13 TSN Toronto The marmot colony at Mount Wash - 14 TBS ington is currently 30-40 marmots strong 15 The Learning Channel and 3-4 litters of marmot pups were ex - 16 YTV Toronto pected to be born there this year. But 17 WGN Chicago spring weather conditions have generally 18 Knowledge Network been so poor with close to record snow 20 Super Channel (Pay TV) levels and lingering cold temperatures, it 21 Movie Max (Pay TV) will likely negatively impact breeding. still provide continual access to the mar - predators.” 22 TFC Family Channel “It’s shaping up to be a repeat of last mots and keep the food dry,” said Doyle. “We’d love to test more sites but the ter - 23 CHVU year when we had zero breeding at the Generally marmot habitat is remote and rain is just too challenging. Even if we said 24 CH Mount Washington colony,” said Don steep, and unstable snow conditions con - damn the costs and lowered feeders to the 25 Much Music Doyle, Chair of the Vancouver Island Mar - tribute to periodic avalanches that keep sites by helicopter they would either slide 26 WSBK mot Recovery Team. 27 CBUT the meadows clear of encroaching saplings or be blown right off the mountain. Not Scientific literature has shown a corre - 28 CBMT and brush. This maintains the habitat but to mention the marmot colony bowls are lation between good food conditions and 29 CTV makes access to the colony sites too dan - often too dangerous to even fly into at this reproductive success. So a decision was 30 CNN gerous for crew while there is heavy snow time of year”. made to provide supplemental food for 31 KCTS PBS Seattle on the ground. So even if the feeding re - The Vancouver Island marmot is one of the marmots, where possible, because the 32 CMT sults are positive, it may be technically im - Canada’s most endangered species. 33 CNN Headline News late snow pack was limiting their natural possible or impractical to set up feeding Thanks to a robust captive breeding and 34 A&E ¢ forage. stations at other colony sites. release program the population is steadily 35 Discovery Plastic piping filled with high fiber leaf “Mount Washington provides a unique regaining strength after near extinction in 36 CBC Newsworld biscuits were set up on Mount Washing - opportunity”, said Don. “Not only is ac - the wild in 2003. 37 Prime ton and Green Mountain, two wild colony cess maintained by the ski resort, preda - If you would like to help the Vancouver Is - 38 Outdoor Life (Pay TV) sites still accessible to Foundation crew in tion is also deterred by the continuous land marmot be restored to their habitat in 39 Sportsnet (Pay TV) spite of the current snow conditions. And human presence there. So we didn’t have the wild on Vancouver Island please adopt a 40 Extreme Sports (Pay TV) the marmots are taking to them like hot to worry much about the feeders attracting marmot at www.marmots.org 41 Space (Pay TV) cakes! . 42 Speedvision (Pay TV) “The biscuit tubes may look crude but 43 History (Pay TV) a lot of thought was put into them. They HELP SAVE THE VANCOUVER ISLAND MARMOT! had to move with the melting snow and Name ______Address ______When you join the Adopt-a-Marmot Club , you help City ______Prov ______protect the endangered Vancouver Island marmot every Country ______Postal Code ______day of the year. Pre-arranged monthly gifts are a con - venient way to help save this beautiful and special crea - I’d like to help our Marmots with a tax-creditable donation. Please accept my gift of: ture from extinction.Your gift supports the field K $25 K $50 K $100 K other research and captive-breeding that's so critical to mar - Adopt a K mot survival. For instance, your contribution will help Sign me up! I want to join the Adoption Club: $120 for one year, OR K K K K fund ear-tagging of wild marmots, which is the only Per month: $10 $15 $20 $25 Marmot I authorize the Marmot Recovery Foundation to deduct the above amount from my chequing account monthly. (I have enclosed a blank cheque marked VOID way in which we can identify and track individual mar - for processing purposes.) This is a great way mots and the success of recovery efforts in future years. Signature ______to help this endan - When you Adopt-a-Marmot you'll receive: YOUR GUARANTEE: You can change or cancel your pledge at any time. gered species as well METHOD OF PAYMENT as an opportunity • Your personalized marmot adoption certificate K for you to to learn • Your full-color poster of a Vancouver Island Marmot Cheque payable to: Marmot Recovery Foundation K K more about these in - • Your official recovery project newsletter (The Marmoteer) Visa Mastercard teresting creatures • Your special year-end report about individual marmots Card # ______Expiry Date ______For more info go to www.marmots.org/adopt.htm Signature ______Marmot Recovery Foundation www.marmots.org Registered Charity # Box 2332, Station A, Nanaimo, B.C., Canada V9R 6X6 Fax: 250-753-8070 88998 0629 RR0001 24 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

Close to restaurants, shopping and hiking or biking on Mount Washington. • 67 Rooms - A/C Units & Free Internet • Coin Laundry • Kitchenettes and Handicapped • Conference Room Great Food & Friendly Service Rooms Available • Cable TV/Movie • In-room Coee/Tea, Fridge Channel • DVD Players Available • Seasonal Outdoor Pool The Ultimate Pub Experience 2502 6th St. Downtown Courtenayy TTolloll FFree:ree: 11-877-393-2200-877-393-2200 oorr 2250-334-245150-334-2451 www.billydspub.com 18851885 CClielie AAvenue,venue, CCourtenayourtenay 250 338 9838 atlascafe.ca [email protected] • www.ancomotelbc.com 268 5th Street, Courtenay 250-334-8811 Stay &Play .. . Shop &Dine!

The COMOX VALLEY is a decidedly eclectic mix of Got a Day? urban and rural, known holiday destinations and hidden gems Comox Valley Growers Guide all within a thirty minute drive. Sights, Tastes and Traditions Tour With access to snow and year round golfing, fishing, mountain biking, hiking and water • While driving through this warm region sports, the Comox Valley sets the stage for non-stop play. And when it’s time to relax the surrounding Courtenay and Comox, discover smaller farms spas and beaches are waiting to pamper you. and specialized nurseries. The Comox Valley is an agricultural and culinary hot spot combining more than 445 • Along the way fill your grocery bag with local wine, farms and dozens of restaurants and food producers. An entire day can be spent finding award winning cheeses, and artisan chocolates. local food for a family feast. Make sure to visit the year-round weekly Farmers Market. • Be sure to visit the Comox Valley Farms’ Market (Saturdays With rich soil, dry summers and mild weather, the growing industry is producing crisp year-round plus Wednesdays in the summer) – a must stop whites, mellow reds and some of the best fruit wines anywhere. As well, mead, cider, for meats, seafood, organic fruit and veggies. beer, vodka and whiskey are grown and produced here. www.discovercomoxvalley.com Comox Valley restaurants offer not only locally grown foods but also locally brewed beers and wines.

Photo: Neil Havers ANCO MOTEL ~ 67 rooms, cable TV, DVD locally sourced, internationally inspired in a rentals, coin laundry and in-room coffee/tea, refreshing setting to compliment the laid Conference room. Non-smoking and smok - back vibrancy of the Comox Valley and the ing units, kitchenettes and high speed In - bounty it offers. Thursday is Pizza & Pasta ternet access rooms available. Close to night. Great Kids menu. Also serving Week - restaurants, shopping, golf, fishing, hiking end Breakfast. Visit our website at www.av - and only 30 minutes to Mount Washington enuebistro.ca for all our menus and daily Alpine Resort. www.ancomotelbc.com or specials. email [email protected] Toll Free: 1-877-393-2200 BILLY D’S PUB & BISTRO , located on 5th Street, in vibrant downtown Courtenay, of - ATLAS CAFE is a global experience with a fers you a traditional pub fee with a Comox world of choices in the heart of downtown Valley flair. Delicious homemade food pre - cludes local seafood, lamb, house made COMOX AIR FORCE MUSEUM An amazing Courtenay. ATLAS serves fresh and innova - pared fresh daily makes for a great experi - fresh pasta, AAA steaks and a nightly fresh collection of West Coast military aviation ar - tive cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. ence. Greeted with a welcoming smile when sheet. Fully licensed 250-334-8564 tifacts, and memorabilia, plus a Heritage Air Diners will appreciate the warm and invit - you walk in the door, BILLY D’S defines the Park with 11 aircraft, awaits you. Visitors ing vibe, as it is a great place to meet the lo - ultimate pub experience. BRIAN SCOTT An avid cross country skier praise the collection which covers a period cals. We feature fresh desserts, espressos, on Mount Washington since 1980, trans - from WW1 to current times. A well stocked fresh juices, kids menu and nightly specials. BISQUE RESTAURANT For those who have lates his experience into vibrant, expres - Gift Shop and a large aviation reference li - Take out menu available. a l r e a d y f o u n d i t , t h e charm of BISQUE sionist oil paintings. View his current brary are also part of the attraction comes as no surprise. The fast paced lunch showing at Raven Lodge and Deer Lodge, AVENUE BISTRO located in Comox, is the changes to a relaxing evening out. Just steps Mount Washington or drop by his Gallery COMOX CENTRE MALL is conveniently lo - sister restaurant of Atlas Cafe. Chef Aaron away from the Best Western and Old House in Black Creek. Ph. 250-337-1941 cated in the heart of Comox. Enjoy every - and his team create delicious cuisine that is Hotel & Spa, our fresh west coast menu in - www.brianscottfineart.com thing from eateries, fashion, gifts, beauty

✴ Just a 30 minute drive from Mount Washington ✴ BEETTETTTER CHOOICICEESS, BETTEETTER FUUTUTURE R E CCRREATION ✴ Superb Shopping ✴ PooololsƔ AArreenanas ✴ Delectable Dining ✴ Weellnellnessss CCententrHƔ Meetingeeting RRoomooms in DowntownDownntown ✴ Exciting Entertainment ✴ Courtenay CVRD AQUAATICTIC CENTRE Come Discover ! Great Golf and Great Value on this 377 Lerwick Road, Courtenay manicured 18 hole Championship public golf course. CVRD SPORTS CENTRE Facilities include a covered range and grass tees, full 3001 Vanier Drive, Courtenay service Pro Shop, fully licensed restaurant patio. www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec Tee Times: (250) 339-6515 • www.glaciergreens.com Tel: 250-334-9622 www.edibleisland.cawww.edibleisland.ca 447777 66thth StSt CCourtenayourtenay O Knight Road, just past the airport. MonM-on ttoo FriFri 9-79 7- SatSat 99-66- SSunun 1510-50 250.334.3116250.334.3116 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 25

Located outside the entrance to CFB Comox Ryan Road at Military Row, Comox Open Daily 11-4 and by appt. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm FRESH WEST COAST INSPIRED MENU Tel: (250) 337-1941 14th and Cli ffe Ave 8269 North Island Highway, Black Creek, B.C. Courtena y, BC Across the street from the Black Creek Store Ph/Fax: (250) 339-8162 Open 7 days a week with Mall Wide Internet Access 250-334-8564 www.brianscottfineart.com ww w.bisque restaurant .ca www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca 215 Port Augusta Street, Comox, BC 250-339-7344

Photo: Neil Havers Got Two Days?

Day One... • Head up to Mount Washington and take a beginners lesson in downhill mountain biking • Head down to the local market to pick up food for a picnic lunch and a cool-down dip in the ocean • Catch a show at one of several live music venues in the Comox Valley Day Two... • Grab a map and climb the hills of Cumberland by foot or bike • At low tide, walk the beach from Goose Spit to Kye Bay, exploring the tidal pools while enjoying the views and water fowl along the way

Fresh locally grown organic produce, beef and fowl, dairy products, baked goods, cut flowers, essential oils and more are available at the Farmers’ Market

supplies, groceries, pharmacy and other COURTENAY has something for everyone, finest courses in the Comox Valley. GLA - MAD CHEF CAFE ~ serving up insane general stores. Stop and enjoy the view of all in one convenient location. Add to this, CIER GREENS offers excellent facilities, in - food...with attitude. The Comox Valley’s the Comox Wharf, the Beaufort Mountains a wide range of eateries, a fabulous museum cluding a covered range and grass tees, a full best burgers! Also serving fresh ciabatta and the Seaside. www.comoxmall.ca and theatre, art galleries, parks, and more, service Pro Shop, a fully licensed restaurant pizza, hot soups, and cold salads. The only and it's easy to see why DOWNTOWN with meeting and banquet facilities, and a heated and licensed outdoor patio in Down - RECREATION: Better choices ~ Better Fu - COURTENAY is one of the most charming beautiful outdoor patio overlooking the town Courtenay. Eat in or take away. ture. Discover the many features of the downtowns on Vancouver Island. 18th green and don't forget the BEST BOOM!! BOOM!! Comox Valley sports and aquatic centres. HOME COOKING in the Valley. For great The facilities offer a wave pool, lap pool, Located in the Heart of Downtown Courte - golf, spectacular views and fabulous food ~ MARTINES'S BISTRO , located on Vancou - steam room, sauna, hot tub, wellness centre nay, EDIBLE ISLAND WHOLE FOODS MAR - swing by GLACIER GREENS, located on ver Island in the scenic Township of Comox, and arenas. For more information visit KET provides nutrition-conscious shoppers Knight Road, just past the Comox Valley is known as one of Vancouver Island’s top www.comoxvalleyrd.ca or follow us on a complete and extensive selection of or - Airport. www.glaciergreens.com restaurants and offers a superb dining expe - Facebook or Twitter. g a n i c w h o l e f o o d s , p r o d u c e , l o c a l b r e a d s , rience. Visit our website at baked goods and meats, all the groceries, LA CABANA DE MARCOS Authentic Mexi - martinesbistro.com Discover one of the most unique and vibrant household cleaning options, plus quality can Restaurant ~3-468 29th Street, open downtowns on Vancouver Island! Just a 30 supplements and fabulous body care alter - every day, breakfast, lunch & dinner, in - MID ISLAND GIFTS ~ Great gift ideas for minute drive from Mount Washington, cluding Taco Bar & Burritos. Large groups DOWNTOWN COURTENAY natives ~”Simply put . . . we bring you the your home, friends or family, showcasing a offers an eclec - best!” are welcome, call 250-703-2639 for reser - wide variety of local artists, crafts and prod - tic mix of locally owned shops and services. vations. We are fully licensed, and host LIVE ucts. Unique Vancouver Island gifts and From cutting-edge fashion to outdoor ad - GLACIER GREENS GOLF CLUB invites you MUSIC frequently and now offer Catering. travel necessities too. All in one place, Open venture gear, imported delicacies to the to discover the unbeatable value and Visit us, & feel like you are in Mexico! 9 a.m. ~ 7 p.m. Daily at the Comox Valley freshest local foods, home décor treasures to Muchas Gracias. DOWNTOWN friendly service that have made it one of the Airport. fossil discovery tours, Continued on page 26

Authentic Mexican RESTAURANT OPENOPEN 7 DDAYSAYS A WWEEK,EEK, BREAKFAST,BREAKFAST, LLUNCHUNCH & DDINNERINNER LLIVEIVE MMUSICUSIC • SSALSAALSA • HHDD TTVV SSPORTSPORTS Mid-Island Gifts Featuring Artists & Products from Vancouver Island Comox Airport Open Daily 9:00am - 7:00pm 3-468 29th Street, Courtenay 250.703-2639 www.cabanademarcos.com Tel. 250-339-0332 www.midislandgifts.com 26 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011

Finest quality lingerie, pleasure toys & lubes for your Alpine Getaway at Mount Washington.

Thai Village Courtenay • 589 Cliffe Avenue • 250-338-0669 Restaurant Victoria • 2018 Douglas Street • 250-380-0069 Duncan • 80b Trunk Road • 250-597-0122 www.theromanceshop.org 660 England Avenue, Courtenay • 250-338-1383 WOMEN OWNED & OPERATED

Shop & Dine garden patio. Healthy kid's menu. TITA'S continued from page 25 is open every night at 4 p.m. www.titas.ca TRAVELODGE ~ COURTENAY Our Conven- THE RIDING FOOL HOSTEL is a Tourism ient Downtown location makes us the per- B.C. Approved heritage property in historic fect place to stay. Our Friendly Staff is downtown Cumberland. We offer private dedicated to making your stay enjoyable. rooms and dorm style accommodation, full Start your day with our Deluxe Complimen- kitchen, BBQ, large common area, and free tary Continental Breakfast. pool table, gear storage, free wireless inter- net. “Best hostel on Vancouver Island” THE WAVERLY ~ Rustic charm, fast friendly Lonely Planet B.C. service. The closest pub to the base of the mountain, for quantity and quality you can't Feeling romantic? Visit THE ROMANCE beat THE WAVERLEY'S food. Check out our SHOP on Cliffe Avenue, near 5th St. This up- super entertainment! Downtown Cumber- scale Adult Boutique is where lovers and ro- land. mantics of all ages shop. Celebrating 15 years of Romantic and Erotic Adventures. We are WHISTLE STOP PUB serves the best pub the Romance Experts! Finest quality massage food in the Valley. Ocean view dining, two oils, personal lubricants and sexy lingerie. patios, Valleys best draft selection, plus Browse through the amazing and fun sex toy friendly, knowledgeable staff. Live music department. Book your Romance Home every weekend. Our LIQUOR STORE offers Party today! Stores in Victoria, Duncan and all beer & spirits at, or below, government Courtenay. liquor store prices. THAI VILLAGE RESTAURANT ~ Relax and ZEN ZERO Vegan Restaurant & Smoothie Bar savour the fresh, healthy and exotic flavours ~ 5th & England, Courtenay ~ offers fresh Comox Valley Farms & Vineyards of traditional Thai cuisine famous around the juices, smoothies, wheatgrass, hot soups & world! Enjoy B.C. VQA wines and Island curries, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free The Comox Valley is an agricultural and otic delicacies such as emu, wasabi, soy, beer selections in air-conditioned comfort or wraps, wheat free treats & raw food delights. culinary hotspot combining more than wild mushrooms, fallow deer venison and on our beautiful patio. Summer hours: Kiddie play area, free wi-fi and sunny patio. 445 farms and dozens of restaurants award winning cheese. Lunch ~ Tuesday to Friday, Dinner starts @ www.zenzero.ca and food producers. From May through October, visit the Comox Valley Farmers' Market to shop for 4:30 p.m., Closed Monday. Experiencing the mélange is as easy as fresh, organic and specialty products. pulling up a chair at a restaurant, as THRIFTY FOODS ~ Smiles every day, excel- Perch on a bale of hay, sip a delicious cup savouring a pairing of local wines with lent service and prices on all your grocery of coffee, nibble on some home-baked award winning cheese, or as adventurous needs, with in-store bakery, meat & seafood goodies, and enjoy live entertainment. as picking a pint full of berries at an or- service counter, deli, floral department, plus In addition to selling at the Market, ganic u-pick. Mount Washington's *Snow Season* many local farms sell direct to the public. Local award winning wineries offer 6IXPAK's. Redeem your Club THRIFTY "Growers Guides" can be found at the tours, tastings and an opportunity to pur- FOODS points for instant cash off at the till. local visitor information centres. chase wines that are not readily available. Visit one of the local petting farms and TITA'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT In addition to orchards, nurseries, Gourmet have a chance to tour through the farm dairy, berry and vegetable farms, the valley Mexican cuisine inspired by the freshest local and see all forms of animals. Hand feed also has growers who specialize in organic produce and seafood. Incredible margaritas baby chicks, ducks, sheep and friendly meat, poultry and produce, as well as ex- made with fresh fruit from TITA'S own gar- goats. Something everyone will enjoy! den. Warm and friendly service. Gorgeous

2605 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay, BC

Free Deluxe Continental Breakfast Air-Conditioned Rooms Seasonal Outdoor Heated Pool Coin Laundry Facilities Live music every Weekend In-Room Movies, On-Demand Golf Packages Outdoor Decks ~ Best “Pub Grub” in the Valley Free Wireless Internet Kitchenettes Open Daily: 9am-2am Ski Packages: 1-800-795-9486 Liquor Store: 9am-11pm www.travelodgecourtenay.com 2355 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay, BC 250-334-4500 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 27

Photo: Tony Radomi, courtesy Mount Washington Alpine Resort Mountain Sport Centre The Centre has also undergone a slight continued from page 6 name change, to the Vancouver Island Mountain Sport and Education Centre. The needs of mountain-based teams will “It was never just about sports,” said be taken into account first then the facil- Sharpe, who is one of the people who has ity will open up to other groups for re- worked hard to bring the Centre to the treats. mountain. While Tribune Bay is contracted with “The synergy between the Sports Cen- BC Parks to provide youth-oriented pro- tre and the mountain is going to be great,” gramming, that restriction is non-existent Resort President Peter Gibson said. with the Mountain Sports and Education Especially because of its location across Centre. Campbell hopes to adapt a lot of the parking lot from Raven Lodge; even the programming for adults as well as fam- the wood beam construction echoes the ilies. architecture of the Nordic lodge. “It’s The Centre will open Thanksgiving going to be a great post-Olympic legacy,” weekend with a grand opening tour. Gibson added. Crews worked on the building through- Mount Washington is one of the few out the winter, and it is nearly at the lock- mountain resorts in B.C. that can boast New Mountain Bike Terrain The BC Cup Finals on August 13-14 up stage. such a legacy, and he credits the hard continued from page 4 will likely max out at 250 downhill and The partnership is symbiotic, said Don work of the VIMSS board for securing 75 cross-country riders, Manara said. This Sharpe, Resort Director of Business Serv- A Dirt Pak (much like the 6Pak) is funding and moving the project forward. downhill event will take place on the ices, especially since Tribune Bay works available in three-ticket packages and are “It’s going to be a great addition to the Monster Mile, touted as one of the most with schools and children, much like the available at Thrifty Foods outlets on Van- mountain.” challenging routes on the BC Cup circuit. couver Island. Resort does. The citizen class usually draws local There is also a new price category for riders from Duncan, Port Alberni, youth 13-18 years (children are 12 and Nanaimo, Cumberland and Campbell Record Snowfall under). And because the bike park is com- said it was a “great year”. But it presented River, and the Resort offers a reduced continued from page 7 pact and riders can get several laps com- challenges. “It created other challenges by entry fee to encourage Island-based riders pleted in a short period, there are now “We had nowhere else to push the snow,” the cost of snow removal and having to to participate. The cross-country event two-hour lift and rental packages avail- Trousdell said. “There was a lot of trans- work around the snow - whether it was runs Saturday, Aug. 13 and the downhill able. ferring the snow from lots 2 and 3 down parking or around the lifts,” Sharpe said. Sunday, Aug. 14. and over the edge of Lot 4.” “It created challenges for us, but it put us Manara hopes this will expand an al- ready popular mountain biking season In some areas of the mountain, groom- top of mind for people wondering where that typically sees 10,000 visits to the bike ing machines and shovelers worked over- to go skiing and snowboarding.” park every year. time to keep the chairlifts above the snow The record snow year meant extending line. “The snow pack is so high in some the regular season into late April, and ski- BIKE EVENTS FOR 2011 areas that we’ve roped off access under- ing on Father’s Day - June 19. And the neath the chairlifts as a precaution,” Patrol huge amount of snow also spelled a later Director Jesse Percival said at one point. opening for the Resort than usual: about Under the Boomerang chairlift, in the 10 days later, as staff waited for the snow See Jane Jump on August 20-21 is a double black diamond Outback, groomers to melt. women’s Mountain Bike Festival put on were shoveling by hand in a few places be- Mike Manara, Resort Mountain Biking The mountain bike community is by pro Darcy Turenne, rounds out three cause skis and snowboards were dragging Manager, said the end of the season is stoked for a stellar lineup of events, be- solid weekends of mountain biking. in the snow. “We don’t machine groom spent much like the beginning: watching ginning with the Bearclaw Invitational The festival aims to bring women riders other than one access in and out because the snow. The only difference is trail crews slopestyle event making its return Au- of all skill levels together for a weekend of of the difficult terrain,” Trousdell said. in June are waiting for the snow to go gust 4-6. riding, coaching, eating, drinking, and re- From a snow perspective, Resort Di- away. “As quickly as the snow comes here, laxing. “It’s huge for us,” Manara said. “That rector of Business Services Don Sharpe it also tends to go fast,” he said. The goal of the event is to provide a event is the marquee event of the bike fun, non-threatening environment that en- park. It really helped to put us on the courages beginner riders to progress their Ski Clubs Shine continued from page 8 map.” skills, and pro riders to strut their stuff on Organizer Darren Berrecloth created a some of the most fun trails that Vancou- Eight Vancouver Island athletes who compete in moun- good flavour for the event and focuses on tain sports were awarded travel grants in December by the ver Island offers, including slopestyle fea- the riders as well as spectators - and the tures built specifically for the event. Vancouver Island Mountain Sport Society (VIMSS) to assist event can draw as many as 5,000 people them with training and competition expenses. All participants will have access to pro- to watch. fessional coaching, free bike set-up and Athletes receiving travel grants were: Ariel Becherer, Nordic “In my 10 years I don’t think I’ve seen ski, Black Creek; Kole Harle, alpine ski, Campbell River; Sheri- maintenance tips from Norco bikes, and as many people out for any single event,” walk away with prizes from our amazing dan Meckert, Nordic ski, Comox; Michael Ravensbergen, Manara said. Nordic ski, Courtenay; Darcy Sharpe, snowboard, Comox; sponsors as well as a DVD of profession- “That type of event is the exposure we ally shot images from the event. Alex Stapft, Nordic ski, Campbell River; Peter Stubbs, freestyle need to get more people riding up here.” ski, Courtenay; and Jamie Wastenays, Nordic ski, Campbell It will draw the world’s best free riders, Photo: Tony Radomi, courtesy Mount Washington Alpine Resort River. from Spain, Europe, BC and the United The society has raised more than $75,000 since 2003 to States. help emerging amateur athletes who compete in mountain The Bearclaw includes practice and the sports like alpine, Nordic and freestyle skiing, snowboarding, Lucky Downhill on Thursday, Aug. 4, adaptive snow sports, biathlon and mountain biking. qualifying on Friday, Aug. 5 and the main VI RIders' team member Sydney Moore of Comox on the podium during event on Saturday, Aug. 6 from noon to 4 the BCSA Provincial Slopestyle Competition at Mount Seymour in early p.m. A big air competition will run off the

Photo: Kelsa Donald, VI RIders February 2011. Moore places second for the weekend. jump following the slopestyle events. 28 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER ~ FALL 2011

Glacier! Well maintained inside Rick Gibson and out, in a quiet family four Serving the plex with nice neighbours. Open floor plan, a "cooks kitchen" with Mount Washington a view of the Glacier while you Real Estate market prepare gourmet meals for friends since 1989. and family. Wood burning fire - place, and easy access to common 250-334-3124 (24 hrs) wood pile in the basement. Direct: 250-338-1723 Waxing room in the basement, [email protected] Heart of the Village! plus a large storage locker for each 2 bedroom condo in the Alpine Your Home Away owner. Screens on all windows for Village of Mount Washington. Well From Home! your summer enjoyment. Summer cared for unit with upgrades. 2 bath - parking in front of the building. 3 Bedroom Condo! Ski from the front Sweet Corner Suite! rooms and loads of storage. The "Castle Crag Chateau" would door west to the Green Chair, or east make a perfect family retreat, win - 2nd floor corner suite located in the building is in very good condition to the Sunrise Quad. Easy 3 minute ter and summer for your family, heart of the village. Easy access in & with a live in caretaker. Located in the walk from parking and the General just has it has done for the owners ski down to the lifts. Fee includes all heart of the Village with easy access to Store. Corner unit with both east and for the past twenty years. exterior maintenance and taxes. This slopes and parking. 108 - $149,900 south views, including the Comox $212,500 is a great deal! $124,900 207 ~ $212,000

Lots for Sale! Building sites available Looking for a Building Site on Mount Washington? 640 Arrowsmith Ridge ...... $99,900 $ Large Lots! Foundation & Plans Duplex Lot 880 Cruikshank Ridge ...... 85,000 910 Cruikshank Ridge ...... $99,900 Large building lots located on the Included! The only duplex lot available on 930 Cruikshank Ridge ...... $95,000 Benchlands with great views of One of the few remaining chalet lots Mount Washington! Prime location 959 Cruikshank Ridge ...... $114,900 Strathcona Park, easy access to in the Alpine Village. Price includes and still owned by its original owners 969 Cruikshank Ridge ...... $119,900 skiing and the Park. There are few plan for an impressive chalet and the this jewel on the mountain is waiting building areas left and these are completed foundation. Spectacular for you. Many opportunities as you the closest to Hawk Chair. location with easy access to parking could build both, sell one and keep $139,900 - $187,500 and ski in and out access. $349,900 the other side. $325,000

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NPVOUXBTIJOHUPO!KMUDBOBEBDPN • Civil Litigation Internet Ski Pack $199.00 ~ Call for details • Wills & Estates • Divorce & Family Law High Speed Internet NOW AVAILABLE • ICBC & Personal Injury Z Y L ]

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[ Tel/Fax: 250-337-1824 [email protected] 250-334-2416 • www.ivesburgerlaw.com V =PJ[VYPH)*= A, O 7 1502 Seaview Road, Black Creek, BC V9W 6E3 505-5th Street, Courtenay, BC (Corner of 5th & Fitzgerald) THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER ~ FALL 2011 29

784 Washington Way

Features Include: • Outdoor Swimming Pool, Sauna & Hot Tub • Underground Parking • Propane Fireplaces • Ski Storage Room off Lobby • Convenient Location to Amenities Features Include: • Mountain / Strathcona Park Views Close to Alpine Lodge! Spacious, well-kept townhome with - • Slopeside Location 110 2 Bedroom facing Strath. Park $224,900 2 Choices... in a few minutes stroll of the Alpine • Fully Furnished, 6 appliances $ BLUEBERRY HILL 211 3 Bedroom facing Strath. Park 239,900 Lodge. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and • Rainscreen Technology and ski runs A Bright Buy! sauna. The inside is well cared for • Live-in Caretaker Very unique and bright corner CONDOMINIUMS 506 3 Bedroom Penthouse facing with a huge space in the lower floor $ suite in Snowbird. 3 bedroom • Underbuilding Parking ON MT. WASHINGTON Strathcona Park and ski runs 199,900 for sleeping or recreating. Enjoy the townhome with loads of natural • Common Hot Tub Features Include: outside patio, taking in the sunsets light and extra windows. Very • 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom and mountain views. Ski-in and out • Elevator Access quiet location in the building and some with Lock-offs access to the slopes. Fantastic loca - • Spectacular Vaiews of Strathcona easy access to parking and skiing. 102 2 Bdrm 882 Sq Ft Viewside $224,900 tion and great value. $229,900 Park and the Ski Runs 2 bathrooms, sauna, electric fire - 105 2 Bdrm 893 Sq Ft Slopeside $240,900 • Above & Underground Parking place, open living area. $169,900 • Propane Fireplaces 201 2 Bdrm 884 Sq Ft Viewside $234,900 South Facing • Furnished units ready to go Townhome 202 2 Bdrm 879 Sq Ft Viewside $234,900 • Ski Storage Room off the Lobby with easy access to parking and 208 1 Bdrm 629 Sq Ft Slopeside $184,000 with separate lockers for renters skiing. Basement undeveloped for additional usage. 3 bedrooms and 111 3 Brdm, views of ski runs $235,000 210 2 Bdrm 891 Sq Ft Slopeside $244,900 2 bathrooms. Propane fireplace

$ 201 3 Bdrm, views of ski runs and for the cool winter nights. Quiet 212 3 Bdrm 1013 Sq Ft Corner 324,900 $ Strathcona Park 214,900 location and great building! 214 2 Bdrm 899 Sq Ft Viewside $224,900 302 Penthouse (1600 sq. ft.) $299,900 $259,900 3 Bedroom 310 2 Bdrm 882 Sq Ft Slopeside $244,900 Vaulted Ceilings! 303 Top Floor (921 sq. ft.) $194,900 West Coast designer townhome locat - 411 3 Bdrm 1013 Sq Ft Corner $399,900 2 Bedroom, facing Strathcona Park Top Floor Features Include: ed close to the Alpine Lodge of Mount Washington. Offering 3 bed - • Slopeside Location • Hot Tub rooms, two bathrooms and sauna. • Fully Furnished • Caretaker Vaulted ceilings in the living room • Front Desk Service and gourmet kitchen with corian • Underground Parking countertops. Ample storage and easy access round out this great package. 201 2 Bedroom Lock-off facing Strathcona Park $184,900 Mount Washington offers incredible snow, and affordable real estate 207 2 Bedroom facing ski runs $199,900 prices. $239,900 313 2 Bedroom Lock-off facing Strathcona Park $219,900 The epitome Features Include: Creekside House of a ski chalet! Rarely do suites in Creekside House Your own log cabin perched high • Furnished Apartments hit the open market. One owner, on a ridge with the most incredi - • Drive To Access immaculately maintained 3 bedroom ble views of Strathcona Park you • Propane Fireplaces suite available. Quality plus building can find. The mountain home is • Self-contained Kitchens built by the same builder of Raven separated into a lower 2 bedroom • Ski Storage Lockers off Lobby Lodge. Creekside is located immedi - suite suite and the main upper 3 • Breathtaking Mountain Views ately adjacent to the loading area of bedroom suite. The living area • Convenient Location to the Green Chair so is about as ski in Chairlift Friendly! has a cathedral ceiling and an Ski Lifts and Strathcona and out friendly as you can get. Easy open wood burning fireplace. Located at the loading station of the Provincial Park. access to Nordic and Strathcona Park. Many many special features such Hawk and Green chairlift is this lux - ONE BEDROOM APARTMENTS as stained glass, hand carved 101 3 bedroom, corner suite $349,900 ury 3 bedroom townhome with a $ mantel and very cozy touches. 104 Facing Strathcona Park 119,900 301 Top Floor, 3 bedroom double garage. The finishing is exqui - A snowballs throw from the green This has been a very popular 302 Top floor Corner Suite sunny slopeside $374,900 site with a view of the ski runs. Loads facing Strathcona Park $134,900 chair! Two bedroom 2nd floor condo rental with strong repeat busi - 303 Top Floor, 2 bedroom of storage and plenty of space. with underground parking. Lock off ness. If you are looking for a true 305 Top floor facing ski runs $127,500 facing ski runs $224,900 Parkview Place offers a great location one of the bedrooms to make a sepa - mountain hideaway, yet with easy 311 Top floor facing ski runs $149,900 rate rental suite while you stay in the with easy access to the Alpine and access to Mount Washington, rest. Common area includes sauna, Nordic skiing. Close to Strathcona look no further. $399,900 hot tub, and locked storage. $214,900 Park. $384,900

Contact: Rick Gibson , Royal LePage in the Comox Valley Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hrs) Direct: 250-338-1723 www.rickgibson.ca 30 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER~FALL 2011

Once in a Lifetime! Once in a while a unique property becomes avail - able. This legal duplex on Mt Washington has it all. What you get is two legal titles and the two units share a common area. Within the common area is a third suite! Each side has 2 bedrooms and spacious plans. The common area which includes a large family room, sauna, kitchen, bathroom & bed - room. Ideal for 2 or more families with spectacular views. Buy the package Sunset Views of Strathcona Park! Perched on a Ridge! and then sell one of the off, or keep the other. WOW - this one has many options! CALL A very unique property in the Alpine Village. Only 14 years old, 3 bedroom executive town home with stunning this spectacular property is perched to take in the sunset views spectacular views of Strathcona Park. The Master of Strathcona Park, yet virtually ski in and out and close to park - suite encompasses the entire top floor and the ing. 14 foot ceilings, open plans, 2 separate owner suites plus Living room is vaulted almost up the roof of the Big Red Chalet self-contained suite in the basement. Sauna, loads of storage and entire building. Common area includes, hot tub Big Red Chalet , located within Mt. Washington Alpine Resort, is a brand new more. $640,000 on it's own private deck and sauna. What more to chalet available for sale. This family ready property has the capacity to sleep 12 say than "WOW!" Suite B $439,900 to 16 people and have two complete suites available either together or sepa - Suite C $448,000 rate. The drive-in location, heated driveway with double car garage and park - ing for six vehicles is convenient and rare to find. With beautiful moun - tain views and all the comforts of home, Big Red is the ideal destination. There are five bedrooms in total (2 in upper suite and 3 in main suite) and two bathrooms. Large deck on the main suite and smaller in the upper. Built for snow, this chalet is perched on the upper side of the road with encompassing views into the park. The driveway is heated, so ice will not build up. A lot of thought went into the design and this is the ideal property for someone wanting either a larger mountain home or a smaller one with a rental suite.Big Red Chalet , located within Mt. Washington Alpine Resort, is a brand new chalet available for sale. This family ready property has the capacity to sleep 12 to 16 people and have two complete suites available either together or separate. The drive-in location, heated driveway with double car garage and parking Entertaining Friendly! for six vehicles is convenient and rare to find. With beautiful mountain views and all the comforts of home, Big Red is the ideal destination. Nestled on the side of an open meadow in the heart of the There are five bedrooms in total (2 in upper suite and 3 in main suite) Alpine Village of Mount Washington. You can ski in and out and two bathrooms. Large deck on the main suite and smaller in the to the runs from this 2425 square foot chalet. 4 bedrooms plus upper. Built for snow, this chalet is perched on the upper side of the spacious living areas and an open entertainment styled road with encompassing views into the park. The driveway is heated, so kitchen round out the package. Stategically located close to ice will not build up. A lot of thought went into the design and this is parking so access is also a breeze. This is a spectacular prop - the ideal property for someone wanting either a larger mountain home erty at an unbelievable price. $499,900 or a smaller one with a rental suite. $599,900

For over 20 years Rick Gibson has sold close to 90% of all real estate on Mount Washington. That’s because he lives here and knows the market better than anyone else.

• Rick Gibson's three web sites receive over 8000 unique visits per month. • The Royal LePage website receives over 800,000 visits per month. • The Mount Washington Real Estate Channel shows your property 24/7. • The Marmot newspaper boasts an annual circulation of 80,000 copies. 250-338-1723 (Direct) • www.rickgibson.ca • www.milehigh.ca THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER~FALL 2011 31

In a word... Stunning! Located on the upper side of Fosters Place on Mount Washington is this STUNNING mountain chalet. 4+ bed - rooms and a HUGE living area! This mountain home boasts a beautifully appointed interior finished to the highest of standards. Ski in and out access and close to Strathcona Park for nordic ski - ing in winter and summer hiking. Golf courses, beaches, international airport all just 30 minutes away. $549,900 A Sought After Property... in a sought after location! Lovingly maintained by its owners "Chalet 43" offers a 4 bedroom main suite on the upper two floors and a self contained two bedroom suite on the lower floor. The main suite is open in design with many recent upgrades from the ground up including flooring, doors and plumbing. Very well thought out design, offering fantastic accommodation and a floor plan "that works!" Two bathrooms, one with a gorgeous jetted tub. The lower 2 bedroom suite is spacious and cozy with 2 bedrooms and large living/kitchen area. A shared sauna and ample storage rounds out the package. Chalet 43 is located close to parking yet EASY access to the slopes. Tucked into the sidehills, it is close to everything yet sit - ting on the large deck you are hidden in the woods. $635,900

2700 Square Feet of Luxury! The Best of the Best! Never before has a home of this style and quality been available Log home for sale on Fosters Place. Over 3,000 sqft of luxury in on the Mount Washington market. Over 2,700 square feet with this 3 level home at bottom of cul-de-sac. A snowballs throw 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. No expense has been spared from ski runs. Lower floor could easily be converted to addition - from the silestone quartz kitchen, hardwood floors, solid cedar al accommodation. Large deck, gourmet kitchen, cathedral ceil - beams, log styled exterior to the open hearth style gas fireplace. ing in living room, etc. If you have seen the rest & want the best All rooms are open and spacious. Fosters Place is Mount - this is it! Views from the large deck over the Park. This is one Washington’s only drive-in, ski-out location. If you have been of only a few properties on Mount Washington that are drive in looking for the “something special”, this is the one. $799,9 00 and ski out and unobstructed views. $950,000

Contact: Rick Gibson , Royal LePage in the Comox Valley Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hrs) Direct: 250-338-1723 www.rickgibson.ca

FEEEHOLD INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

Priced from $184,000 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM AVAILABLE ~ Over 85% Sold! FULLY FURNISHED • RAIN SCREEN TECHNOLOGY • SLOPESIDE ACCESS Rick Gibson 250-334-3124 (24 hours) Direct: 250-338-1723 www.rickgibson.ca 32 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 Sit Back, Relax & Scan... Considering purchasing property on Mount Washington or in the Comox Valley? Enjoyed your visit to Mount Washington and consider ing kooking an overnight stay? Everything you need is just a scan away, courtesy of Rick Gibson.

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