Kate Dodd ~ From Prairie Girl to Alpine Accountant 4 SUMMER 2009 Mount Washington Special Events 15 FALL 2009 2009 Mount Washington Accommodation Guide 16 Volume 19, #2 60-70 Marmots to be released on Vancouver Island in 2009 23 milehigh.ca

MILE HIGH NEWS ON MOUNT WASHINGTON

Bike, Hike & Unwind on Mount Washington

Hike the Trails in Strathcona Provincial Park

Photos: Tony Radomi, courtesy Mount Washington Alpine Resort Lake Helen McKenzie, Paradise Meadows, Kwai Lake, Mount Becher... out of naming features in the park. But it’s you’ve been there, done that – but how much do you know about these no frivolity; she says it’s advantageous for places you’ve seen? their website. This club has been respon- So too was the B.C. Geographical Names people hiking in the backcountry who sible over the past 90 years for naming database. might get lost. continued on page 10 Curious about their beginnings, many of the geographical features of Elms writes of three other men who ‘The Marmot’ set out to find the Strathcona Provincial Park. played a vital part in naming park fea- history of 24 mountains, lakes and Lindsay Elms, who some would argue tures: W.R. Kent, Einar Anderson and meadows in Strathcona Prov. Park. is a modern-day pioneer, has written a W.W. Urquhart, who led a sur- book called Beyond Nootka, which thor- vey party in the park in 1913- The Comox District Mountaineering oughly investigates the history and ori- 14. Club (www.comoxhiking.com) has an gins of many of the major geographical Ruth Masters, a member of extensive list of features on Vancouver features on Vancouver Island. His accom- the mountaineering club since Island and the origins of their names on panying website was a valuable resource. the 1930s, has made a hobby

Published for your convenience by RICK GIBSON of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley • www.rickgibson.ca • [email protected] 2 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

Kudos to Andrea Lee of the Strathcona Two IPC technical directors from News In Brief Nordics Ski Club, who in March earned a Switzerland visited the site, including silver medal at the Canadian cross-coun- one man who had also attended the 2007 Encompassing people, places try ski championships in Ontario. Also to event. He said, “You guys are in line for a and happenings at Mount Darcy Sharpe, who finished first in his world championship now.” Washington. age category at a provincial snowboard The Resort has applied for an able-bod- slopestyle event at Big White. ied World Cup event in 2012. Sharpe The Canadian Association of Disabled said it’s a long shot, but once a resort Skiers honoured Mount Washington in makes an application “it puts you on the April as Ski Area of the Year. The radar; people know that you’re serious.” Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive The Resort is expecting upwards of 250 Snowsports (VISAS) nominated the An IPC athlete from China plays with Rowan, athletes and support crew to train at resort for its dedication to helping dis- a dog from Pacific Assistance Dog Society. Mount Washington prior to the 2010 abled athletes. Mount Washington pro- Winter Olympics. They already have six vides VISAS students with reduced lift Olympic Update snowboard teams, five biathlon teams tickets and annually donates space in the and three cross-country teams that have The 2010 Winter Olympics are less Alpine Lodge for the organization to committed, Sharpe said. operate during the winter, president John than a year away, yet one event at Countries that will be represented Stevens told the Comox Valley Record. Mount Washington Alpine Resort include Canada, the United States, last winter made it seem like the Sweden, Germany, France and Congratulations to Allison Forsyth, Switzerland. Paralympic teams that will Olympic Games were already here. championship skier, for a couple of practice at Mount Washington prior to pieces of big news. Mount Washington The Resort hosted its second their Winter Games include Norway, has dedicated a trail to the Comox Valley Cavin Donald, a former VI Riders mem- International Paralympic Committee Denmark, Finland, Ukraine and Austria. Olympian: “Invitation”, a popular run for ber from Campbell River, was crowned (IPC) World Cup in three years from The Spirit of B.C. Community racers off the Sunrise Quad Chair, is now 2009 King of the Hill at Mount March 11-14. Committee is concentrating on the known as Allison Forsyth Giant Slalom Washington this winter. Donald, who “It was inspirational,” said Don Sharpe, Olympic torch run, which will stop in the Race Course. And in February, at the was first crowned King of the Hill in Resort Director of Business Operations. Comox Valley on Nov. 2. Courtenay has Mount Washington Ski Club gala, 2007 when he was 16, was judged along “It was absolutely wonderful,”said Susan been designated a celebration city, and is Forsyth received a marriage proposal - to with other competitors in big air, Kelsey, who heads up the Comox Valley planning a big event at Lewis Park to her- which she said yes! slopestyle and rails to determine who is Spirit of B.C. Community Committee. ald the torch, Kelsey said. most consistent in all elements of Kelsey is also a former Olympic athlete, The torch will pass through Courtenay, freestyle. Donald also attended the B.C. having won a bronze medal for swim- Comox and Cumberland on its way INSIDE Freestyle Provincial Team tryouts at ming in the 1976 Summer Olympics in down Vancouver Island. “We’re gearing up for 2010,” she said. More events are 5 • New Interpretive Hut Opens Whistler in May and has earned a spot on Montreal, Que. “We hosted (the World the team for next winter. Cup) in 2007 and it was a big success; we planned leading up to the Games, includ- 8 • Mount Washington Biking Map just built on that,” she said. ing the Canada Day parade in Courtenay, Paul Crawford’s 9 • Mount Washington Hiking Map Courtenay glass artist There were 270 volunteers working the the theme for which will be “2010 work was a focal point during the IPC 11 • BC Parks Maps & Trail Guides event, and Comox Valley schools “adopt- Olympics,” she said. World Cup in March: Crawford designed 15 • Exclusive! Mount Washington ed” the 20 participating nations, cheering “We’re going to have a float in the all 99 etched glass medals for the event. Accommodations & Events Guide them on during the week of events. parade and have a real presence on that day. “More than anything, we want peo- 18 • Mount Washington Village Map Mount Washington President Peter Students also took part in the medal cer- ple to be aware of the Olympics and raise 23 • Agressive Marmot Release for 2009 Gibson turns 60 this summer. When you emonies, holding the trays of medals so the spirit in the Valley – get people excit- 24 • Shop & Dine in the Comox valley see Peter this summer- wish him a happy dignitaries could present them to the winning athletes. ed about the Olympics,” she said. 28 • Mount Washington Real Estate Guide birthday Mr. President!

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* Based on availability THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 3 Summer is Festival Time on Mount Washington The Save-On-Foods family picnic is set for Canada Day July 1, as usual. The Beer Festival celebrates 10 years on Friday, July 10, while the Wine Festival is 11 years strong on Friday, Aug. 7. The Disc Golf Tournament returns on Saturday, July 18, a fun way to spend some time outdoors.

Last year’s Culinary Festival was so Alpine Marketplace, taking place in the popular that the Resort is expanding on Resort Courtyard from noon to 4 p.m. the theme this year. “We learned after the Defert has visited vendors near and far in first year that it can be a really popular an effort to collect local products that will event,” said Tim Defert, Resort Director, tantalize the tastebuds. Hospitality Operations. New this year is a Wellness Retreat The festival has a new sponsor this Aug. 28-30 – a weekend for nurturing year, Comox Valley Economic the mind, body and soul. “It’s a real grow- Development’s Agri-Food Program. ing trend; people are looking for calm,

The Event begins with a wine and serene, yoga-style events,” said Don Photo: Susan Quinn cheese reception on Friday, Sept. 4 Sharpe, Director of Business Operations. (Labour Day weekend) where guests will “Imagine doing yoga on top of the Kate Dodd In Profile... have an opportunity to meet the guest mountain on a beautiful, sunny day.” chefs and sample local wines and appe- Every five years during her adult life, who are more skillful, and dedicates her tizers made with local products. The retreat will feature healthy meals, Kate Dodd has switched jobs. Until mountain time to her job. Dodd joined Guest chefs include Brad Long of the wellness classes that promote health and she joined the staff at Mount Restaurant Makeover show on The Food relaxation and yoga options. Local the accounting field in 1989 after a varied Washington Alpine Resort, that is. Network (he’s also executive chef of experts will be on hand for pampering career. “I have a patchwork quilt past,” with guided edibles walks, seminars on Veritas, a restaurant dedicated to sustain- Now, she’s having so much fun she she says, smiling. Dodd originally earned healing touch and aromatherapy and ably produced local ingredients), Tahera wouldn’t dream of working anywhere a degree in psychology, “which qualified more. Rawji, an author from Richmond, B.C. else. Dodd is the Resort Director of me to work in restaurants and little else,” On the mountain biking side of the whose first cookbook was called “Simply Finance “and sometimes Human she says ruefully. Indian” (she cooks dishes from Pakistan, schedule, the Resort is taking a break While living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from the Bearclaw event this year, Sharpe Resources, and sometimes not,” she says. India and the Middle East) and Erik Akis, she worked in restaurants in every capac- said. However, the Resort is hosting a Dodd and her staff are responsible for food columnist for the Victoria Times- ity then moved on to a seniors’ centre and B.C. Cup cycling event and some down- the safekeeping of all of the Resort’s Colonist and a gourmet chef in his own a wilderness camp for troubled teens. She right. hill racing and a women’s weekend, too. assets. Human Resources intuitively fits gravitated back to restaurants, eventually The chefs will conduct gourmet cook- Resort staffers are also putting some into her role “because our biggest asset is owning a couple. ing classes on Saturday, Sept. 5, then will time and energy into their trails, this our people.” provide the delectable fare for the Alpine summer. “We’re finishing off a couple of She takes care of capital, purchasing, When she started a family she took the to Valley Gourmet Dinner and Wine bike trails that weren’t completed,” future planning, budget reporting and Certified General Accountants course by Pairings later that evening. The dinner Sharpe said. “We’re going to spend some controls. correspondence, deciding that restau- time this summer making sure they’re will feature locally produced fresh products. She skis - badly, by self-admission. She rants weren’t the place she wanted to buff.” Crews will also break more ground The highlight of Sunday, Sept. 6 is the leaves the on-the-slope activities to those raise her children. continued on page 27 on a beginners’ trail. DISCOVERY MARINE ExploreExplore oourur sstunningtunning 9-acre9-acre OOceanfrontceanfront SAFARIS, Ltd. ParkPark aandnd GGardens!ardens! WHALE & GRIZZLY VIEWING EXCURSIONS

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Check out our website for exciting upcoming events: www.filberg.com Tel. 250-339-2715 61 Filberg Road, Comox with Strathcona Wilderness Institute Sat. July 18th (10 - 4 pm) Special activities to help make a fun day will include talks, short walks and demonstrations. ‘Kid - friendly’ activities are also planned. Toll free: 1-866-501-ORCA (6722) SWI will supply coffee, tea and snacks. www.adventurewhalewatching.com If you would like to donate a food item,

that would also be welcome. Has a Grizzly Imagine crossed your Please contact us for more details! the thrill! path yet? Luisa Richardson Hut Manager/Interpreter 250-337-1871 Local:Local: 250-287-7008250-287-7008 www.strathconapark.org DepartingDeparting fromfrom CoastCoast MarinaMarina (next(next toto thethe ferryferry terminal)terminal) 4 SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

“Mount Washington is actually unique Mount Washington Resort President among our members in being an Island Peter Gibson is delighted at the associa- resort with alpine-to-ocean opportunities tion’s early marketing achievements, and on the same day – that’s an unusual and notes that success benefits all property Photo: Tony Radomi Photo: Tony appealing idea for many vacationers,” she owners on the mountain. said. “There are not many places in the “Even those who don’t rent have a vest- world that can claim that.” ed interest in ensuring awareness of Cecconi says Tourism Mount Mount Washington increases and the Washington “will be getting an amazing resort prospers,” he says. “The higher our return on its investment” in international profile, the more positive the effect will promotions by playing in the bigger be on land and property values over the Putting the Mountain CSDC team, alongside members like longer term. There is a real bottom-line Whistler and Tremblant. individual benefit there.” Solid foundations are being laid to Urging more owners to sign up, he on the Map attract vacationers who will want to stay adds: "There is real strength in numbers - at Mount Washington for several nights, - and the math is simple. The higher the Visitors to Mount Washington moting Mount Washington in the ‘Mail including through midweek. number, the greater the income and the Alpine Resort are frequently on Sunday’ newspaper – long regarded as Ideas for new packages are being more that can be achieved.” amazed to discover that along with the premier UK newspaper for covering explored, with international visitors com- Sarah Nicholson agrees. “The moun- ski vacations. all the great recreational facilities, ing to the mountain for an Island adven- tain resort association will be able to do • Producing and distributing 30,000 ture, then moving on to a resort like Banff so much more as more stakeholders join there are more than 600 properties copies of an all-season illustrated map of in and around the Resort. to give them a wholly different experi- us, so we’re encouraging everyone with the mountain, pinpointing accommoda- ence. property or businesses on the mountain They range from studio apartments tion and businesses as well as facilities on The direct air links between Calgary to become a member of our team. through hotel-style suites to 12-bedroom the mountain. and Comox, connecting with great value “The contribution of every extra mem- chalets. And what’s more, many are avail- There has already been measurable flights to and from Europe, certainly ber can be multiplied twice over – often able to rent, offering no fewer than 4,000 payback from the initiatives. underscore the possibilities. more – in shared benefits. beds between them. In his British newspaper article, here’s “But just as important, teaming up will Now, through the Mount Washington For example, since the London show, how Neil English enthused about Mount help build a stronger sense of communi- Resort Association – operating as Mount Washington Alpine Resort reports Washington: “There are not many ski ty on the mountain, and that can only be ‘Tourism Mount Washington’ – some 200 a 12 per cent jump in unique visitors to areas in the world where high quality on a good thing.” property owners and other resort busi- the resort website from the UK. Tobin and off-piste terrain, excellent powder nesses are working together to ensure Leopkey of Section 8 Snowsport Institute snow and stunning views combine to Those interested in joining, or simply their facilities become better known to has collected deposits from several British deliver such an all-consuming feelgood learning more about the resort association’s many more potential visitors. people booking 12-week instructor train- factor.” work, can log on to They have already been able to deliver ing courses and is now spreading the That’s some recommendation coming www.discovermountwashington.com some big publicity coups for the moun- benefits by renting accommodation for from one of Europe’s top ski journalists to They can also email Sarah Nicholson at tain as far away as England and Australia. them on the mountain. And since listing a country that is Canada’s biggest over- [email protected] Now they are working on their first on the Tourism Mount Washington web- seas ski market, whose winter sports or give her a call at 250-338-0226. detailed tourist guide to encourage many site, Sharon Hadden – who has owned enthusiasts spend over 400,000 nights at more people to come for extended stays and rented out her property on the Canadian ski resorts every year! in both winter and summer. mountain for 20 years – has recorded a “Our members’ subscriptions, coupled significant increase of summer bookings. Tourism Mount Washington Manager, Sarah Nicholson with very substantial input from the But there is more to the association shown holding a copy of the Mail on Sunday promoting Mount Washington. resort itself, are allowing us to lift the than marketing. It’s also about giving marketing of Mount Washington to a members a voice to pursue further whole new level – and that will benefit improvements to the village, facilities and everyone,” says marketing and member- services, and building a strong sense of ship manager Sarah Nicholson. community here. The association’s successes The concept is modeled on Sun Peaks in its first 18 months include: Resort near Kamloops. There, resort association president Christopher • Launching the Tourism Mount Nicolson says a range of mutually-benefi- Washington destination website, with a cial services for members have been special focus on members’ accommoda- developed, including centralized reserva- tions and businesses. tions, group sales and the operation of an • Securing a full-page promotional full- information and adventure centre where colour feature right alongside Vancouver activities as diverse as dog sledding and (and before Whistler!) in the Canadian canoe rentals can be booked. Tourism Commission’s official ‘Come Ski Mount Washington is a family-focused Canada’ guide. 100,000 printed copies of resort with many accommodation the guide are distributed to ski markets options that have the appeal of ‘home worldwide along with another 300,000 from home,’ unlike some of the big win- e-copies on CTC websites. ter sports centres that play on glitz and • Attending the huge Metro Ski and glamour. Snowboard Show in London, England - That distinction can be a real plus, says an event that has already generated solid Renata Cecconi, executive director of the business and new contacts. Canadian Destination Ski Consortium • Hosting British journalist Neil English, (CDSC), which Tourism Mount resulting in an impressive feature pro- Washington has joined. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 5

New Interpretive Hut Opens Winter 2009 In Review

Winter at Mount Washington Resort Perhaps the busiest people on the got off to a slow start last mountain this winter were the December, but picked up speed groomers: moving snow from places where it accumulated to places where Photo: Susan Quinn through to the spring actually extending the operating season. it was needed. “They finally got the credit they Visitors wanting to access the free access trail into Paradise Meadows, “We had a lot of icing, and no cake,” deserve,” said Erik Meertens, Operations Strathcona Provincial Park finally allows everyone to visit and enjoy said Don Sharpe, Resort Director of Manager for Mount Washington Resort. Trailhead from the parking lot this sub-alpine environment.” Business Operations. “They work as hard with a metre of snow The building came together really Any early snow blew away, or blew to beside Raven Lodge will notice a as they do with 10.” quickly, said Steve Smith of the where it wasn’t appreciated. When the big change this summer: a new This year the groomers went to even Strathcona Wilderness Institute (SWI). freezing temperatures arrived, the snow Interpretive Hut. greater lengths to make sure skiers and Mount Washington Alpine Resort donat- pack wasn’t solid enough. snowboarders had a good variety of runs “It has taken close to 14 years of perse- ed the land for the Hut and parking lot “Then the inversion hit,” Sharpe said. to choose from. And at times it wasn’t verance and the involvement of many that allows unfettered access into the “It was 19 degrees (Celsius) at Raven easy, Meertens said. people and groups to get this building to park. The institute received a matching Lodge one day in January…and minus “We literally went and got (snow) with lock-up stage last fall,” said Andy Smith, funds grant from Coastal Sustainability two in the Comox Valley.” man and machine and stitched it togeth- Area Supervisor, BC Parks, Strathcona Trust to have the building constructed The snow that Mount Washington is er…There were certain times we could Area. courtesy of Paul Henderson (PGH) from famous for finally arrived in February have easily thrown in the towel.” The “While the Strathcona Wilderness Courtenay. and March, and by mid-March the groomers received a lot of compliments Institute (SWI) has had a great deal of There is still a lot of work to do, Outback terrain opened and the from the skiing public, Meertens said. support from the local Rotary groups and though: Smith would like to see the bot- Boomerang Chair was operational. “The Meertens and his groomers will spend private and corporate donors to date, the tom floor finished with wheelchair acces- people who did come up to use the ter- time this summer installing snow fences, project still is in need of donations to sible toilets, and the interior completed. rain enjoyed the terrain,” he added. which will help collect blowing snow that complete the vision,” he added. The group is prepared to operate the The Resort extended its operating can more easily be moved onto certain “BC Parks wants to increase accessibil- interpretive centre this summer even if hours for two extra weekends in April, spots that need it – especially early in the ity to all parks and this Strathcona proj- funding doesn’t come through to finish which was part of the management team’s season. continued on page 27 ect, which also includes the construction off construction. continued on page 27 strategy to allow people to get as much of the new Trailhead area and a barrier- snow experiences as possible this season.

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Eagle to rid themselves of some of the bigger rocks. Celebrate Parks Day! Summer Grooming Improves The groomers will also install drift fences this summer to help corral snow Winter Snow Conditions next winter. The fences are set up in areas where snow accumulates, and the winter groomers will move the snow onto runs where it’s needed. “We’re going to snow farm better than we ever have this year,” The Strathcona Wilderness Meertens said. Institute will celebrate Parks Day All the brush cutting and the drift on Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 4 fences will allow the Resort to open more p.m. at the trailhead to Paradise terrain with less snow, earlier in the win- ter season. Meadows. “The rumour has always been we need This will also be a day to celebrate the one-and-a-half metres to two metres of new interpretive building. Groups and snow to open. Last year we opened with companies with a special connection to a metre,” Meertens said. “We’re very opti- Strathcona Provincial Park are invited to mistic we’ll be able to maintain (ski runs) set up booths in the BC Parks parking lot earlier.” at the Paradise Meadows trailhead to pro- Grooming is not just a winter activity expand in June to four-man crews. Especially the first 100 metres off some mote what they do or answer questions. Proposed activities for the day include at Mount Washington Alpine In May, they were trimming “Christmas of the lifts, he added. Last year the snow broke down at the top of some lifts, but talks, short walks or demonstrations by Resort. The Resort has a dedicated trees and conifers that have never had to be cut back before,” Meertens said. that problem will be alleviated. “There volunteers and kid-friendly activities like group of experienced groomers, led will be less maintenance required,” he a climbing wall and facepainting. by Operations Manager Erik “We’re going to give everything a hair- cut.” Anything that has been developed said. Attendance will be free. The Meertens, who trade in their Snow in the last four or five years doesn’t need Wilderness Institute hopes that groups Cats for pole cutters as soon as the to be touched, he added. “We’re back to James Clarke (upper left) operates a pole saw to clear wishing to set up information booths will snow melts in late May or June. away brush. The pole saw is the tool of choice because consider donating $25 or more. doing Round 2 on stuff we started three groomers don't have to bend over to cut low brush. The Wilderness Institute will provide The summer grooming program began or four years ago.” Dave Paige (below) uses a brushcutter to clear away coffee, tea and snacks, and will gratefully four years ago when Resort staff realized Meertens estimates his crews will brush that has grown up on one of Mount Washington's more mature ski runs. accept food donations for the day from some of its original runs, which hadn’t smooth out 15 to 20 runs before autumn, other groups. been trimmed since before opening day and that includes glade work among the Photos courtesy of Erik Meertens, Resort Operations Manager. Each group would be responsible for in 1979, were becoming overgrown. trees. There are 60 runs at Mount their own tables and tents. Merchandise “We decided to put a three-man crew Washington. cannot be sold at this event unless the on the higher elevation stuff,” Meertens Workers will bring in an excavator group has a Commercial Park Use said. with a mower on it to do a few hectares Licence, or they intend to donate pro- Early in the season Meertens had two of less steep terrain. They’ll re-grade ceeds to the SWI. brush-cutting crews working four days a some of the runs off the top of the Hawk, All proceeds from this event will go week, trimming anything that pokes Sunrise Quad and Eagle chairlifts this towards the SWI building fund, to help through the remaining snow. Crews summer, including moving some earth complete wheelchair accessible wash- patrol the ski runs with chainsaws, brush around and moving rocks out of the way rooms on the bottom floor. cutters and pole cutters, smoothing to make it easier to bring in snow groom- things out in preparation for next year’s ing equipment earlier in the season. For more information, please call park inter- ski and snowboard season. The crews They’ll do some blasting at the top of the preter Luisa Richardson at 250-923-9918. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 7

Biathlon team prepares for Olympics ing. There are also options for some par- Ski Clubs Keep The Vancouver Island Biathlon Club ticipants to train with the B.C. Freestyle turns its sights on the 2010 Winter team at Whistler-Blackcomb, said Club Busy in the Olympics this summer. “The Olympics spokeswoman Gina Stubbs. were a golden opportunity to raise the “Our Club in the summer also goes to profile and build all our legacy stuff,” said Whistler, to the water ramp, and we have Heat of the Joe Bajan. “Our biggest focus in the last a club water ramp camp,” Stubbs said. while was to complete our legacy compo- Athletes will learn to do flips and other summer nents.” more complicated jumps wearing wet- That means preparing the Biathlon suits instead of snow gear, and landing in Range at Mount Washington Alpine water, which is a better shock absorber. Resort to host several international “It’s just a safer venue,” she added. Olympic and Paralympic teams for train- This summer, club volunteers will do ing prior to the Olympics. some grading on the mogul park (on Bajan expected funding to fall into Lower Retirement) to adjust the pitch for place after the Marmot went to press. The a permanent mogul course. They will club had automated six of its targets in install a “table top” to create a safer plat- advance of hosting Team Sweden for form for jumps, Stubbs said. training this year, and they hoped grant The competitive freestylers will kick money would come through to allow their season into gear in the fall with a Snowsports don’t stop when Mount He has 20 athletes whose blood lac- them to automate the rest of the targets. trip to Apex Alpine in Penticton, which Washington Alpine Resort closes tates, strength and metabolism levels are That would make the biathlon range one opens early for national and provincial freestyle team training. its doors on the winter season. tested regularly. “I’m one of the few pro- of three in Canada with fully automated fessional coaches that works full time,” targets (the other two are in Whistler and VI Riders keep on shreddin’ All five of the Clubs that compete in says Battison. “There’s not as many of us Canmore, Alta. their chosen fields – whether it be Alpine and certainly not many doing the things The Biathlon Club will host the Cadet Vancouver Island’s only snowboarding or Nordic Skiing, Snowboarding, flying that I’m doing.” Provincial Championship Feb. 6-7, 2010, club continues to pump out emerging through the air Freestyle or Biathlon – are Battison managed to get a spot at Haig and have organized a special event fol- athletes in both the developmental and equally as busy in the summer. Glacier for his elite athletes to train this lowing the race. Bajan said a race will be competitive domains, club spokeswoman The Strathcona Nordics won’t be summer. The Canadian national teams set up for any Olympic athletes who are Kelsa Donald said. watching television this summer, use the facility – which has a testing lab at the mountain training for the 2010 “This year the Club brought on board they’ll be on it. at 9,000 feet – for training, so it’s not easy Winter Olympics. their first female coach, who worked with The team is co-operating with to get in. So the young biathletes and members an incredible group of female riders to Discovery Channel on a series dealing While the Strathcona Nordics’ elite of the public will have the opportunity to nicely round out the skill level across the athletes will primarily be involved in the with the science of sport, and will film at watch an Olympic-class race. “You’ll mountain,” she added. filming, the junior and masters teams will watch some of the world’s greatest,” Bajan Mount Washington and Haig Glacier in Five of the VI Riders are involved with also be involved in some aspect, Battison said. “When you see what these guys do, Kananaskis, Alberta. in late July. the B.C. Provincial Team or the said. it’s mind numbing. There’s no other word Strathcona Nordics’ head coach Dave The junior team works out four days a for it.” Developmental Team now – an impres- Battison is already studying the effects week together in the summer and go to sive record, considering the Club is only Freestyle team hits of altitude on endurance athletes in an training camps, too. Regular testing days three years old, Donald said. water ramp at Whistler effort to increase their recovery capacity. are done at the end of each month. “The Cavin Donald – Mount Washington’s He has worked with PacificSport and Haig trip will be one of our biggest train- Athletes with the Mount Washington King of the Hill again this year – was with athletes around B.C., which is how ing camps,” he said. Freestyle Club will spend their early selected to the B.C. Team. Discovery Channel got his name. summer on self-directed dryland train- continued on page 27

Say Hello to my Little Cousin!

The Vancouver Island Marmot is Marmots live in colonies, and Sasquatch delight in watching the mar- thought to have originated on the main- sasquatch are suspected to co-habit in mots’ antics, much like a human would land of British Columbia, prior to the groups, migrating with the growing sea- watch a pet cat or dog. Cordilleran glaciation about 10,000 years sons. Vancouver Island’s Marmots are con- ago. The Marmot Recovery Foundation Marmot habitat is traditionally high in sidered endangered in Canada. In recent surmises that when sea levels dropped the mountains, above 1,000 metres. years, efforts at breeding centres at and land bridges were formed, marmots Sasquatch too, prefers higher elevations. Mount Washington and the Calgary Zoo migrated to the Island and evolved into Marmots are herbivores and eat a lot of have been successful in bringing the furry their present form. plants. Sasquatches have not been known critters back from the brink. to attack anything beyond a berry bush, Ancient lore that The Marmot has But we know the real secret: and if although there is a sub-species that has uncovered in secret archives sug- you look hard enough in the shadows been discovered to eat shellfish in ocean gest that marmots have a close of the treeline above the Marmot lowlands, as previously revealed in The relationship with another elusive Foundation’s breeding centre, you’ll Marmot. creature: sasquatch. see it too. Sasquatch... keeping an eye Marmots while away the few daylight (Why else, we have to ask, would the on its furry friends. hours they are above ground either nose- Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee touching or sparring in play fights. think to pair mascots like Quatchi and Muk Muk together?) 8 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

Future Trail

Cruise aboard the Witness the day-to-day events of a work- Columbia, is a must to see on everybody’s and enjoy the beauty of the West Coast. ing coastal vessel as the M.V. Uchuck III travel list. If you desire a longer voyage try Their friendly crew and staff will make MV Uchuck III plies the historical waterways of Nootka the 2 day adventure trips to Zeballos or your visit a memorable one. a coastal passenger and freight vessel Sound. Explore the shores and waterways Kyuquot. Here the M.V. Uchuck III goes Contact Information: that provides numerous services to of isolated inlets and view the variety of about delivering cargo to isolated marine 1-877-824-8253 or (250) 283-2515 ports-of-call in Nootka, Esperanza resident wildlife. out posts. On the web: www.mvuchuck.com and Kyuquot Sound. A day trip to spectacular Friendly Cove, Located at its homeport in Gold River, Email: [email protected] better known as the birthplace of British the M.V. Uchuck III is your ticket to relax

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Reservations Required 1-877-824-8253 or 250-283-2515 www.mvuchuck.com THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 9 Photo: Tony Radomi Photo: Tony

Mountain Bike Responsibility Code Mountain biking involves the risk of injury. 2009 Common sense and caution can reduce the risk. For your safety and the safety of others, please adhere to this code. 1 Ride in control and within your ability level. Hiking You must be able to avoid other people or objects. 2 Stay off the lifts and trails and out of the Bike Park if your ability is impaired by drugs, alcohol or fatigue. Trails 3 Wear a helmet. It is mandatory. Other protective equipment is strongly recommended. 4 Inspect your bike or have it checked by a qualified bike mechanic before you ride. 5 Be sure you have the physical dexterity, ability and knowledge to safely load, ride and unload lifts. Ask the Lift Attendant for assistance if you need it. 6 Be aware of changing conditions on trails and features. Inspect features before use and throughout the day. 7 Stay on marked trails. Ride only in the direction indicated by trail markers. Obey all signs and warnings. Do not cut switchbacks. Keep off closed areas. 8 Avoid riders ahead of you. They have the right of way. 9 Look uphill and yield to other riders when entering a trail or starting downhill. also provides a great way for hikers to Raven Lodge 10 Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are this trail follow an access road. Great is the Gateway to not visible from above. views of Albert Edward and Strathcona get up and down the mountain. The Strathcona Provincial Park. The Raven gentle grade makes it one of the easier Lodge Trailhead is 1000 meters 11 If you are involved in or witness a collision or accident, Provincial Park. you must identify yourself to the Bike Patrol or a staff hikes to do. above sea level. It provides you with Memory Lane (Beginner) 0.4km Access member. Lodge Trails Use these trails to conve- immediate access to the lakes, meadows to this trail is just past the loading area and mountains that make BC’s 12 Do not feed, provoke or approach wildlife. of the Eagle Express Chair. This short niently walk from Deer or Bear Lodge to the base area. Watch for Disc Golfers oldest Provincial Park so enchanting. Know the Code • Be Safety Conscious trail has a series of benches to honour The hiking trails from the Lodge are staff, family, and friends who have (don’t worry, they are more afraid of you It is Your Responsibility than you are of them!) very well maintained and provide passed. Enjoy the short hike and be access for the disabled to the Park. Park privileges will be sure to check out some of the trail-side Scenic Chairlift Rides The Eagle seasonal flowers. ALPINE STATS removed for breach of code. Express chairlift is a state of the art Giv’er Trail (Most Difficult) 0.7km chairlift that comfortably carries you up Summit Elevation: 1588m (5215 feet) Access this trail from the Eagle Express the mountain; dubbed “The Eagle” Vertical Rise: 505m (1657 feet) Chair. It’s steep up and down, one of because it will seem like you’re soaring Summer Lifts: Hiking Trail the more fun and challenging ways to above the mountain for the whole ride! Eagle Express, get to the top of the hill. It’s a 15 minute ride each way, allowing Hawk 6IX Pak (mountain bikers only) OVERVIEWS you time to take in the fantastic view. West Summit Ridge (Most Difficult) Tread Shed: Top of the World (Beginner) 0.7km Getting on and off the chair is made 4.3km Follow the trail through the Mountain Bikes and Gear Rentals, Access these trails from the Eagle easy as the chair automatically slows West basin and up and over little Sales, Parts and Bike Service Express Chair. Signs lead you to the very Washington to the top of the down at the loading areas. The view peak of the mountain where you can from the top of Mount Washington is an Boomerang. From there the trail winds Alpine Lodge: enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of awe-inspiring 360° panorama of the down the mountain through stunning Fat Teddy’s Grill, the Comox Valley, the Coast Mountain rugged mountains of Strathcona Park, meadows and valleys -spectacular views Altitude Sport and Gift Range, Georgia Strait and Strathcona Comox Glacier, The Comox Valley, Gulf of the Comox Valley, the Coast and General Store Provincial Park. Mountains, and Strathcona Provincial Islands, Desolation Sound, Georgia Strait, Park. and the Coast Mountain Range. Once at Raven Lodge: Linton’s Trail (More Difficult) 0.7km the top you can hike on one of the well Strathcona Provincial Park Trailhead Follow the Linton’s Loop ski run either Access Trail (More Difficult) 2km marked hiking trails and either return to up or down the mountain. Expect to Although this is an active road used by the lodge on foot or ride the Eagle encounter mountain vehicles as parts of mountain vehicles for maintenance, it Express back down. 10 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

Name That Place Alexandra Peak continued from page 1 Located at the head of the Oyster River, “It’s very important that features get Alexandra became Princess of Wales properly named and identified,” she says. when she married Prince Albert Edward, Masters has compiled a book on then Queen when her husband became Forbidden Plateau, now ensconced in the King Edward VII. Courtenay Museum, that details the his- Cruikshank Canyon tory of many features in the region. She George Cruikshank was Hon. Secretary has named at least ten features in the Photo: Neil Havers Photo: Neil Havers of the 1864 Vancouver Island park after the Comox Valley’s war dead, served as chatelaine at Government Dec. 12, 1939 and re-approved on Oct. Exploration Committee. as well as after early pioneers, and says House – Bruce’s residence – from March 7, 1948. A 2.2-kilometre loop trail has McKenzie Lake although she’s getting on in years, she’s 1926 to February 1930. McKenzie been created from the trailhead adjacent McKenzie Lake is named for John not done yet. accompanied Bruce to the official open- to Raven Lodge and through the sub- McKenzie, who was mayor of Courtenay A woman contacted Masters earlier this ing of the Dove Creek Trail, accessing alpine Paradise Meadows. It is the jump- in 1929 – the year that water rights were year asking for help in naming a lake after Forbidden Plateau, in 1929. ing off point for many other hikes in obtained to dam the lake. The lake was her brother, who died in a war, and Strathcona Park. Masters has agreed to help her. “I will be Buttle Lake originally named Seean, a native word doing one more,” she says. In 1865, as part of the Vancouver Island Forbidden Plateau meaning “chief”, to honour all mayors of Here then are two dozen of the Exploring Expedition, British Royal “Forbidden” is a loose translation of the Courtenay, but too many people com- Marmot’s favourite park features, in no Engineers Commander John James Taylor name given to the area by Coast Salish plained about it so it was changed. particular order: Buttle ascended a mountain 6,000 feet natives after many of their hunters were Douglas Lake above sea level. He looked down and saw killed by Nootka Indians. The Comox Mount Washington Douglas Lake is named for William (Bill) a large body of water he estimated to be District Mountaineering Club asserts that Douglas, a Courtenay city alderman, who The mountain and Resort were named about 20 miles long. His sighting was newspaper editor Ben Hughes named the was the first to introduce trout fry to this after Rear-Admiral John Washington, a recorded in the Daily British Colonist of Plateau in an article in the Comox Argus lake and also to McKenzie Lake. Royal Navy officer who made a name for Victoria. It would be 27 years before any in 1927. The name was adopted on Dec. himself as a naval hydrographer, survey- European would set eyes on the lake 12, 1939. “Plateau” is a misnomer, as the Panther Lake ing and mapping seas, lakes and rivers named Buttle. 100-mile-square area is made up of Prospector John Brown claimed to have for navigation. Captain Richards, part of a ridges, sloping wet meadows and open been treed by a family of panthers at this crew dispatched to survey Vancouver Kwai Lake park land at elevations ranging from lake in the 1920s. Ruth Masters in 1936 Island for the Royal Navy, named the Kwai Lake is named for the Clinton 3,500-4,000 feet. suggested calling it Trysting Lake because mountain in Washington’s honour in Wood family. Wood was one of the of another popular use, but was over- 1864. Comox Valley mountaineering pioneers Croteau Lake ruled by the Comox-Courtenay Board of who discovered Dove Creek Trail, an eas- Eugene Croteau operated Croteau Guest Trade. Panther Lake was adopted in 1948 ier access into Forbidden Plateau. Wood Camp in the 1930s. Ruth Masters sug- as a long-established local name. also built the original Strathcona Park gested the lake be named after Croteau Lodge. Kwai is a native word for “wood.” and it was adopted in 1939. Croteau Circlet Lake Beach in Comox is also named after the Prospector John Brown named this lake same man. in the 1920s. Late Comox naturalist Allan Lake Beautiful Brooks surmised that because the lake is located within a cirque (a deep, bowl- Lake Beautiful is one of three lakes so shaped hollow located at the head of a named in B.C., but it has the distinction valley), it might have been a corruption Photo: Neil Havers of being the first to be registered in the of the term. Mount Albert Edward B.C. Geographical Names Information Considered the most ascended of the System. Clinton Wood and Bill Douglas Moat Lake 2,000-metre peaks on Vancouver Island, supposedly named the lake in 1927; The late Sid Williams, a pioneer in the Mount Albert Edward was named for Photo: Neil Havers however, it wasn’t formally adopted until Comox Valley, named Moat Lake because Prince Albert Edward in 1862 and for- Battleship Lake Dec. 12, 1939. it sits below Castle Crag. The name was mally adopted on March 31, 1914. The When Clinton Wood took his son hiking formally adopted on Dec. 12, 1939. with him in Paradise Meadows one day, prince later became England’s King John Brown Lake Edward VII. his son said the profile of trees on the three small islands in the lake resembled Named for prospector John Brown, con- Mount Becher battleships at anchor. The Comox District sidered one of the great explorers of Mount Becher is named for Admiral Mountaineering Club applied in 1935 to Forbidden Plateau. The lake is located Alexander Bridgeport Becher, a well- formalize the name. near the stake where Brown prospected. known and respected surveyor with the Murray Meadows Royal Navy. His name appeared on the Strathcona Park Jack Murray used to pasture his horses in feature on a British Admiralty Chart pub- Founded in 1911, Strathcona is the old- a peaceful meadow southwest of Croteau lished in 1862. The mountain was est Provincial Park in B.C. The Park was Lake, in between trips packing for known in the 1920s as Quartz Creek named for Donald Alexander Smith, 1st Golden Hinde Eugene Croteau. The meadows were so Mountain and early explorers accessed it Baron Strathcona, who was a wealthy The Golden Hinde was first dubbed The named sometime in the 1930s. from the Strathcona Trail near Bevan philanthropist as well as a pioneer of rail- Rooster’s Comb during a 1914 survey of Village, just outside of Courtenay. The roads. Vancouver Island, although author Ruth Masters Lake Lindsay Elms writes that no one knows trail connecting Paradise Meadows and Paradise Meadows For decades, a small turquoise-blue lake Mount Becher is still popular with hikers. who gave the “barnyard” name to the deep in the wilderness of Strathcona Park When Clinton Wood was searching for peak. In 1937, surveyor Norman Stewart Lake Helen McKenzie an easier way to get to Forbidden Plateau has been known colloquially as Ruth felt the highest peak on the Island (2,200 Masters Lake. On Dec. 11, 2008, the Helen Maud Hutton McKenzie was the in 1928 (those efforts resulted in the metres or 7,218 feet) should have a more name became official – immortalizing the niece of British Columbia Lieutenant Dove Creek Trail), he spotted these regal name, and named it after Sir Francis woman who has given name to so many Governor Robert Randolph Bruce. She meadows. The name was adopted on Drake’s flagship, Golden Hinde. park features. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 11 Forbidden Plateau & Paradise Meadows

Photo: Susan Quinn 2009 MAP & TRAIL GUIDE Photo: Neil Havers Strathcona Wilderness Institute Continues Boardwalk trails make the park acces- Offering Weekend Programs and Hikes sible to most every- one while protecting The trail access into through to September Labour Day the delicate high Paradise Meadows (from Weekend. alpine meadows. Raven Lodge) is com- For visitors wishing to enjoy the local pletely wheelchair acces- flowers and shrubs in the meadows at alised (although not yet completed) at sible. With gentle grades, their own leisure, the Institute volunteers the trailhead, However, they are still in this trail is also suitable for will have plant markers in place at vari- need of help or donations, both finan- seniors and families with ous locations on the small loop walkway. cially or in-kind’, to help complete the strollers. The trail connects The Institute has produced a small building and the on going costs of their into the old trail system brochure that will also be available at the programs. leading to Lake Helen Info-hut to help those wishing to take a If you are interested in supporting the MacKenzie, Battleship Lake self-guided plant identification walk. goals of the SWI, in any way, leave a and beyond. Please Note: The Institute is again continuing the message at: 250-337-1871 or e-mail: All visitors are now weekend information service at Buttle The trailhead is located at the NEW Strathcona Park Wilderness [email protected]. The Institute’s website is: required to park in the lots Lake Centre, adjacent to Raven Lodge and meanders past wetlands (300 yards past the Gold River www.strathconapark.org. adjacent to Raven Lodge. and ponds. This new trailhead is wheelchair accessible. turn-off). Look for the sign before cross- ing the Buttle Lake bridge. This is a vol- The Strathcona Wilderness Institute will again be offering guided walks around BC Parks Map & Trail Guide Paradise Meadows with Interpretive Guides. A schedule of this year’s Walks and untary service, thanks again to Gerry Programs are shown on page 22. Roberts. From June 22 ~ Sept. 9, hours of courtesy of Rick Gibson operation will be: Friday: 3~8pm, FAMILIES: Every Saturday at 1 pm throughout the summer, families can enjoy Paradise Saturday: 10am ~ 6pm, Sunday 10am ~ Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hours) Meadows through a Family Nature Program and help everyone discover the plants and 5pm and on Holidays weekends, Direct: 250-338-1723 animals around them as well as develop naturalist skills. Monday 10am ~ 4pm. Should the weath- Suitable for children ages: 7 – 12 years (11/2 hour duration). er be inclement and/or there are few vis- ADULTS: For adults and families a 90 minute to 2 hour walk or lecture presented by a itors, closing times could be earlier. Guest expert on a variety of topics. Sundays at 1:00pm (note earlier start times on July Volunteers are always welcome to help at 5th, July 26, August 16, August 30). either of the Info-huts. A good knowl- edge of Strathcona Park and its trails is To help the Institute’s operational costs, a donation of $2 per person essential. ($5 per family) is suggested for these popular programs. Their vision and goal was the creation, NEW Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre (SPWC): An Interpreter will manage the with community partners, of a Park SPWC at the Raven Lodge parking area. Volunteers there can update you on trail condi- Wilderness Centre for information and tions and hiking destinations. It is open from 10am–4pm (Saturday & Sunday), July 4 programs. This has now been materi-

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Photo: Neil Havers Paradise Raven Lodge Meadows Trailhead To Alpine Forbidden Plateau Toilets Hiking Distances Ski Resort (in kilometres) Camping Trail Paradise Meadows 0 Rossiter From Albert Edward Ranger Station Route 100 0 In Case of Emergency... Lake 00 0 1 Paradise Meadows Loop Trail To Courtenay • Contact Park Facility Operator in the area. Augerpoint route (not shown on map) Parking Park Boundary 120 Helen Mackenzie Location of Park Facility Operators may be Distance: 25 km (one way) Core Area Battleship Lake posted on the notice board at the ranger cabin. Loop Trail Suggested time: 3 days • Phones are located at Mount Washington. An extended route through to Buttle • In case of emergency, Phone 911 Harris Divers 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 1-800-663-5555 1200 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 1400 -92 F/12 Buttle Lake Continue southwest along the ridge to a Simms Kooso L Special Regulations high point of 1760 m before descending L Hiking Trails III Central and MOUNT Within the Core Area camping is only a long ridge above Shark Lake. Continue BROOKS 1200 Northern Vancouver Island. Sunrise permitted at these designated campsites: northwest along route to reach the begin- Lake Lake Helen Mackenzie MOUNT Lady For Further Info ning of the Auger-point Trail. This trail ELMA Lake Kwai Lake 1200 • See Park Facility Operators or go online to descends steeply for 1400 m before arriv- 1000 Circlet Lake Hike along boardwalk along side high alpine wetlands and lakes with Mount Washington ever JUTLAND ❑ 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 No campfires allowed in core area MOUNTAIN 1200 ❑ L STRATA Croteau No mountain bikes ❑ The following guidelines will help MOUNTAIN L Pets must be on a leash and under Routes Garbage - Help keep the back grounds. All drinking water should 14 control at all times to ensure that the Forbidden Plateau 0 0 McPhee L Hairtrigger country clean. Pack out all garbage and be boiled or purified prior to con- Whiskey Kwai ❑ Please stay off revegetated areas These routes are suitable for experienced hikers. area remains pristine for all who 1600 Meadows L L Murray please pick up any litter you see. Please sumption. Please avoid swimming in 1200 1 Thank you 40 Circlet Lake Meadows People using these routes should have map and com- venture there. 0 these areas as it may contaminate the pass skills and be prepared for inclement weather. do not use outhouses for trash receptacles. Mariwood Pearse water supply. It is also important to 0 Hiking Trails - Please stay on Pets - Please keep your pet on a leash at Gem L 120 L From Circlet Lake use the toilets and grey water pits L designated trails, stay off revegetated all times. Free running pets can harm Netuts L provided to keep these pollutants 10 Mt. Albert Edward areas and avoid taking short cuts. other animals, irritate other visitors and 2093m from entering the lake. 00 McKenzie 0 Lake Elevation gain: 935m • Distance: 6.5 km Camping can be harmed by wild animals. Do not MT L - Designated camping 160 Beautiful Panther allow your pet to swim in the lakes as Safety - To avoid bear conflicts REGAN Johnston Suggested time to summit: 5 hours sites are located at Lake Helen Mackenzie, Lake while 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 Groups - Larger groups of people tend Please use pack sack hangers provided Moat Lake first 3 km. Once the first ridge has been reached where provided. If a tent pad is unavail- EDWARD IC D at designated campgrounds. Hikers EFIEL 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 Elev. McKenzie Wood extensive damage to the fragile vegeta- should make noise when approaching 2093m Meadows It’s another 1.5 km to the summit. or will not easily be impacted. 1200 Mountain blind corners to wa rn off bears and 1200 Parking Lot tion. To reduce these impacts, we recom- 8.7 km 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- Mountain weather can change without Hope L 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 - Drinking water is 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.

Explore Island-style Sports and Fashions HorneHorne Lake Souvenir T’Shirts Est. 1990 Affordable Family Holidays! Promotional Voted “BEST NATURAL Try our mountainous OUTDOOR SITE IN BC” Products By Attractions Hiking • Kayaking • Biking • Swimming Beaverbites Sundae! Canada Enjoy riverfront views in downtown Arts & Culture • Festivals Courtenay. Open year-round, your FINE ITALIAN CUISINE Comox Valley Recreation starts at The Cona. Corporate& or Dine on the Deck Custom Designs Short stroll to Comox Marina SpectacularSpectacular CCampingamping Dorms, privates FFamilyamily AAdventuredventure CCampsamps Open for Lunch & Dinner FASHIONS & EQUIPMENT FOR THE BEACH, Embroidery Minutes to Filberg Lodge DOWNTOWN, ON THE MOUNTAIN OR ON THE WATER & family suite. & Screen Printing SSummerummer KKidsids CCampsamps SKISKI • KAYAKKAYAK • SSURFURF • SSWIMWIM • SKATESKATE Beds from DDailyaily CCaveave TToursours Accommodations starting at Your hosts: Wendy & Bill Meade $23 per night. www.brazencanadian.com $ Reservations Recommended 23Per Night (for 6 or more) 1-866-603-2060 or 250-703-2060 Tel: 250-890-7575 +1 (877) 490-CONA (2662 www.shantzhostel.com 520 5th Street, Courtenay 140 Port Augusta, Comox SpecialtySpecialty SSkiki & KKayakayak SShophop Ph. +1 (250) 331-0991 440 Anderton Avenue, Courtenay Online Reservations • www.hornelake.com YOUR ISLAND ADVENTURE LOCATION TOURINGTOURING • RECREATIONALRECREATIONAL • WWHITEWATERHITEWATER Beside the 5th St. Bridge Phone: 250.248.7829 IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN COURTENAY 333333 FFifthifth SStreet,treet, CCourtenayourtenay • 250-338-8844250-338-8844 479 4th Street, Downtown Courtenay 703-9697

Y O U R I S L A N D A D V E N T U R E L O C A T I O N THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 13 Buttle Lake

western shoreline. Strathcona Provincial 2009 MAP & A pleasant white sand Park Information Hut beach and a playground TRAIL GUIDE for children are available Run voluntarily by the at Buttle Lake Camp- Strathcona Wilderness Institute Buttle Lake is easily accessible in ground. There is a con- Do you have questions about forty five minutes from Campbell crete boat launch ramp

Strathcona Park and its fascinating River on Hwy. 28. The drive takes within two kilometres, Photo: Steve Smith and also an undeveloped plants, wildlife or history? you alongside the Campbell and Resting and enjoying the view at gravel launch nearby. The lake levels are Are you interested in taking an Upper Campbell Lakes ending the summit of the Crest Mountain Trail. easy day hike or exploring some of controlled by hydro electric dams and the challenging back country? with views of the expansive tend to be low during the winter but Come to the campgrounds at anytime waters and dramatic mountains normally rise for the summer months. Strathcona Wilderness Institute is pleased as there are almost always sites available to provide all visitors with a wide range of the Buttle Lake corridor. Ralph River Campground is shaded by on a first come-first serve basis at both of information about BC’s oldest, and the graceful beauty of an ancient forest major campgrounds. If you would like to The beauty of this peaceful place will one of our largest provincial parks. Maps, of cedar, hemlock and fir trees under- make a reservation at Buttle Lake take your breath away, and you will find trail up-dates, visitor service details and neath which you will likely see the resi- Campground call Discover Camping at great opportunities for camping and other useful information will be avail- dent blacktail buck grazing. This peace- 1-800-689-9025, or link up to the web- recreational pursuits. able every weekend starting June 20. ful campground borders both the lake site at www.discovercamping.ca. Stop in at the Park Information Hut and People come to fish for trout, and to and a lovely clear river, which is at times To book Driftwood Bay Group pay us a visit. We are located 300 metres swim, canoe, kayak, board sail, picnic, alive with spawning trout. It’s a popular south of highway 28 at Buttle Lake Campground call 250-474-1336 sunbathe and waterski on the 25 km of spot for both fishermen and hikers of all bridge turn-off to Gold River, at the Park lake, while others enjoy the easy and or fax 250-478-0376. Headquarters just watch for the signs! levels. Many of the trails are easily acces- interesting nature walks, or more chal- sible from Ralph River Campground. lenging back country hikes. Local guides HOURS OF OPERATION Please Note: All tributaries to Buttle Lake and club members rock climb at Crest June 19 to September 13, 2009 are closed to angling. Creek Crags. Some visitors just sit quiet- BC Parks Map & Trail Guide Fri: 3pm ~ 8pm Sat: 10am ~ 6pm ly in the shade of ancient trees and enjoy There are interesting trails to explore, courtesy of Sun: 10am ~ 5pm Mon: 10am ~ 4pm the fresh air. some less strenuous and others more (holidays only) Rick Gibson Camping facilities include 85 sites at challenging, and each with unique fea- tures to enjoy. Opportunities abound for If the weather is inclement and/or there are Buttle Lake Campground on the lake everyone throughout the Buttle Lake few visitors, closing times could be earlier. at the North end, and 75 sites at Ralph corridor. For further information refer to Hours of operation will be posted at all River Campground with both lake and campgrounds and trail head information river access at the south end of the lake. the map on the next page. If you are at kiosks as well as at the ‘Elk Portal’ and at Buttle Lake go to park headquarters, Driftwood Bay Campground, an excel- various locations in Gold River, some Island where volunteers from the Strathcona lent facility for groups, is located sepa- Visitor Centres and should be available on Wilderness Institute will assist you rately on the northern end of the lake. our web-page at (www.strathconapark.org). Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Check out Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hrs) You will also find simple wilderness Gerry Roberts Volunteer Operator the Parks web site at Direct: 250-338-1723 camping opportunities for boaters on the www.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/.

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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.

ClosedClosed uuntilntil furtherfurther notice.notice.

NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND MINE ClosedClosed uuntilntil furtherfurther nnotice.otice. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 15 Photos: Mount Washington Alpine Resort Photos: Mount Washington June 27 • Mountain Bike Season begins chuck is wobbly! Come and check out our attendance to enjoy. Make sure to bid on Sept 20 • Sleeman's Year-Ender Bender July 1 • Save On Foods Family Picnic challenging Disc Golf course with the majes- some of the wonderful items available at our DH Race This end of the season fun race is a Head up the mountain to celebrate Canada tic peaks of Strathcona Provincial Park fram- silent auction to support the Vancouver favourite amongst our locals. Close the sea- Day with some fun games for the kids! ing the perfect backdrop. Island Mountain Sport Society. son with a blast! There will be face painting and activities July 18-19 • Race Face Women's Weekend Aug 8 • Gut Buster Sprint to the Summit Things To Do... Ascent all afternoon. This one is for the ladies! A Women's Day Mount Washington welcomes the • Mile High Chair Lift Rides Escape special rate, including awesome final race of the Gut Busters Trail Running July 6-10 • Rocky Mountain Learn To Ride • Enjoy the spectacular views Week informative Apres at the Tred Shed. Series. Test your mettle, and reach a goal Why not try one of the fastest growing • Ride the Bike Park sports in North America? Learn to ride this Aug. 1-2 • BC Cup Race by running up our challenging Give'r Trail • Come on up for lunch or dinner week with a special beginners package Mount Washington hosts a BC Cup Prov. straight to the summit! Aug 27 • First Annual Wellness Weekend including lift, lesson and rentals for just $49! race for XC and DH mountainbikers. • Hike the Mountain Trails A weekend centered around nurturing the Pre-booking is required, as space is limited. Aug 6, 13, 20 & 27 • Lucky Thursday • Hike in Strathcona Provincial Park mind, body, and soul. Take a break from the July 10 • 10th Annual Beer Festival DH Race Series • Camp in Strathcona Provincial Park Calling all locals!! This is the everyday, escape to the alpine and enjoy two This is the event that all you beer lovers ultimate fun DH race series sponsored by days of beautiful meals, and wellness classes • Play Mini Golf have been waiting for! Unlimited samplings, Island favourites Lucky Lager and Dodge that promote health and relaxation. Local • Try your hand at Disc Golf souvenir glass and awesome live music. City Cycles. For $5 you get your race regis- experts will pamper your senses with guided • Flip out on the Bungee Trampoline tration, a beverage, and some great door July 11 & 12 • Roots Rocky Reggae Rocky walks, health and nutrition seminars, and • Plan a summer Getaway prizes from our awesome sponsors! yoga classes. Mountain Bikes presents a new event! If you • Enjoy the Festivals are riding a “rocky Mountain” bike you can Aug 7 • 11th Annual Alpine Wine Festival Sept 4 • The Alpine Food Festival • Do some shopping alpine style ride for free Saturday, July 11 and 1/2 price This event will take place at Raven Lodge. Whether you sign up for a world-class cook- • Buy some Real Estate on Sunday, July 12. Sample a wide selection of wines and ciders ing class or just choose to wander through July 18 • Old Dutch Open Disc Golf from Vancouver Island, BC and beyond. the Marketplace, the Alpine Food Festival is Tasty food samples, live music, and stunning Tournament This tournament is open to all an event to suit all tastes! For up-to-date Mount Washington Strathcona views will be available for all in ages and skill levels, so don't worry if your event information go to www.milehigh.ca

FinestFinest qualityquality llingerie,ingerie, EXPANSION COMPLETED! pleasurepleasure ttoysoys & llubesubes fforor invites you to Stay & Play Courtenay’s only Full Service Hotel youryour AlpineAlpine GGetawayetaway Choose from our wide With the opening of the 36 room Mountainside Wing • 144 Guest rooms atat MountMount Washington.Washington. selection of on mountain it’s a new beginning for guests choosing the Westerly accommodation from & Executive Suites 12 bed alpine chalets Hotel as their Comox Valley destination. • Restaurant, to hotel style suites. Ideal central location for families, couples, wedding Pub & Lounge Enjoy limitless views groups, business gatherings and sports teams. • Specialty Liquor Store and a wide range of recreational activities • Heated indoor pool and family attractions • Hot Tub & Sauna on the mountain and • Fitness Facility in the local area. • Games Room The Summer Packages • Bike Storage Include our special www.thewesterlyhotel.com Romance Shop • Team Locker Rooms 2 night getaway • Guest Coin Laundry from only $78.00 Courtenay • 589 Cliffe Avenue • 250-338-0669 • Golf Packages Per person + fees & taxes Victoria • 2018 Douglas Street • 250-380-0069 Tel: 1 877 754 4661 1590 Cliffe Avenue, Duncan • 80b Trunk Road • 250-715-1269 or book online Courtenay, BC www.discovermountwashington.com 1-800-668-7797 www.theromanceshop.org • 1-866-488-0069 16 THE MOUNTTHE WASHINGTON MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • WINTER MARMOT / SPRING • SUMMER 2008/2009 / FALL 2009

For Up-To-Date Rental Accommodations: www.mountwashingtonaccommodation.com

PLEASE NOTE: • The above information is current as of June 10, 2009 • All properties are non-smoking. • These privately owned chalets and condominiums are rented out by their owners and have their own features and contacts as listed. • Royal LePage in the Comox Valley and The Marmot have no interest, financial or otherwise in these accommodations and assume no responsibility for 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.

FOR ADVERTISING SALES IN THE ACCOMMODATION GUIDE OR THE MARMOT Please contact WENDY WOODLEY 250-897-3678 or [email protected]

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 www.mtwashingtonguesthouse.com

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

Mount Washington Phone Directory

Altitude Sport & Gift . . . . . 250-334-5721 Central Res...... 1-888-231-1499 Fireweed’s Restaurant . . . . 250-334-5706 Police NON-EMERGENCY . . 250-338-1321 Resort Info ...... 250-338-1386 Ambulance ...... 911 Fat Teddy’s Grill ...... 250-334-5716 General Store ...... 250-334-5745 Raven Lodge ...... 250-334-5764 Security ...... 250-792-1204 Catering ...... 250-334-5757 Fire - to report a fire ...... 911 Police EMERGENCY ...... 911 Real Estate (Rick Gibson) . 250-338-1723 Utility EMERGENCY ...... 250-334-5737 Mount Washington Accommodation Packages!

in the amazing alpine with one of our accommodation packages. • Choose from a Mountain Stay & Play Whether in winter or summer, Mount Washington provides the perfect alpine experience! View or a Valley View • All suites have full kitchens, Mile High Getaway Packages from $79 Your Mile High Getaway Package includes one night fireplaces, and balconies accommodation, a scenic chairlift ride to a spectacular alpine to ocean view, a Breakfast basket and Dinner in Fat Teddy's Grill. • Seconds away from the Alpine Lodge (rentals,

food & beverage outlets) Alpine Food Festival Accommodation Packages from $239 • Both Bear and Deer Lodge Package includes 2 night’s Accommodation, Cocktail Reception Friday night, 2 Cooking Classes on Saturday, offer a relaxing hot tub 2 Breakfast Buffets, 5 tickets to the Sunday Marketplace and a Scenic Chairlift Ride.

For details on accommodation please visit mountwashington.ca To book Accommodations for this Summer or next Winter call Reservations: 1-888-231-1499

YOUR ISLAND MOUNTAIN 18 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

LINTON'S LOOP 1290 12801280 WHISKEY Deer Lodge BearBear LLodgeodge

FANTASTIC JACK RAINBOW MtnTekMtnTek CHAIR TUBING LIFT Ski EAGLE Club EXPRESS Day Parking MOUNT WASHINGTON COCO PARK LANE DAYBREAK CABIN SUNRISE ACCOMMODATIONS • NEWS • REAL ESTATE Day Parking Alpine O-ZONE TUBING PARK Lodge WESTERLY BEAR Day Bradley Gold Trail Parking HANDLE TOW Centre Duckenfield Creek Rock Bluff Rock Bluff SUNRISE Snowball GREEN ACRES 760 Albert Lake QUAD THE HAWK Village Run Edward Place CHAIR 1101 Village Reception, Private SIX PACK DISCOVERY PLATTER LIFT 1084 751 Peter’s Parking EXPRESS Strata Way Pond General Store & GREEN CHAIR Meadow 1044 740 736 Liquor Outlet 1027 1054 727 1042 737 Village Sushi 1190 1088 Washington GREEN 1231 1021 1030 Transport Mon 1176 Way 1006 752 Castle Crag CHAIR 1273 1276 1217 1010 1066 Crescent Strata Way Meadow Lane Nordic Access 1268 1195 880 712 1254 1009 998 882 709 690 Rock 999 988 1044 878 788 699 1251 1236 1167 1022 Strata Bluff 1235 1005 980 691 687 Creekside 1222 1143 993 974 871 Way 924 695 Day Parking 1217 1208 1054 1033 919 SILHOUETTE House 1192 Alexandra Ave. Strata 978 1203 1070 971 966 Washington Way 1380 1176 1109 Way Clinton Wood 784 Parkview 1187 1162 1093 1059 976 828 816 Day 1171 1067 957 958 Court 872 701 Private Parking Mountainside 1146 965 896 Place 1155 1132 Henry Road 730 Parking 1370 Lodge Private 1016 Jutland 1381 1139 1116 Parking 931 893 Meadow 770 715 To Raven 1340 1100 988 953 915 Terrace Rock 1123 907 750 Lodge & 1375 Blueberry 1105 Private 796 Bluff Nordic Strathcona Park Lodge Ptarmigan Parking 822 785 710706 Hill1320 Jutland Terrace 739 688 Trails Ridge 805 721 Treetops at Strathcona 1105 914 860 701 To the 1092m/3146 ft. 6 7 8 Paradise 886 857 Glacier View Close Rock Wildwood at Strathcona 9 Henry Fosters Rock 906 877 Bluff S Comox 10 11 Ridge Bluff T 12 Road Place 903 889 R 13 14 1201 909 AT Valley and HC Campbell River Cruickshank Ridge ON A Year round vehicle access PAR Beaufort Heights KWA Summer vehicle access Arrowsmith Ridge Y (winter access by Snowcat or on foot) Nordic Drive Pedestrian access only (year round)

Getaway to Mount Washington

Offering Bookings for...

• Blueberry Hill • Creekside House • Mountainside Lodge • Paradise Ridge • Parkview Place • Ptarmigan Ridge • Private Chalets On Fosters Place Toll Free Reservations: 1-866-826-7325 or 250-923-7320 • www.peakaccom.com 20 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR TRAIL a canoe and kayak launch access for Marble Meadows trailhead. AND CAMPGROUND INFORMATION MARBLE MEADOWS (3) The trails described here are well defined and easily accessible. The trail heads are marked with signs. Length: 6.6 km. Time: 4-5 hours to the Alpine There are other, less defined trails and routes which are not shown on this map. Distances, elevation meadows. Elevation change: 1,250 metres. Steep, changes and hiking times are for ONE WAY only and are approximate. Fires are not permitted in some bluffs. Trail starts at Phillips Creek marine Strathcona Park except in an authorized BC Parks steel fire ring. Wear sturdy boots and carry rain gear campsite on Buttle Lake. Access by boat from Auger Pt. or Karst Creek day use areas. Be aware and a sweater, even in the summer months, because weather can change suddenly and dramatically in of submerged stumps in the lake. Random camping the mountains. Please preserve the delicate alpine environment by staying on trails. Use caution on trails is allowed in the meadows. Marble Meadows features and be aware of snow, fallen trees and other natural hazards. wonderful viewpoints, alpine meadows and limestone For further information about trails and wilderness areas visit the volunteer information hut at Park formations. Headquarters, or ask park rangers. The Strathcona Wilderness Institute can be contacted for more KARST CREEK BOAT LAUNCH RAMP, detailed route information at 250-337-1871 (e-mail: [email protected]). Topographical maps and guide- TRAIL AND PICNIC AREA (1) books can be obtained locally at sports stores in Campbell River or Courtenay. If you wish to travel on A good concrete ramp located 4 km from Ralph less defined routes please be well prepared with a map and compass, proper equipment, and experience River Campground, and accessible from the in wilderness travel. Westmin Rd. There is a large open grassy area plus several picnic tables and fire pits, Please let a friend know where you plan to go and when you plan to return. and lots of room for parking. Karst Creek trail

is 1.3 km. It is no longer a loop walk due to the Photo: Marlene Smith The STRATHCONA WILDERNESS INSTITUTE is a non-profit organization whose mission is to bridge being out. Time: 45 minutes. Observe Karst View along the Bedwell Lake Trail inspire awareness, appreciation and stewardship of the natural world through education and par- geological formations such as sink-holes with dis- ticipation. The institute will provide a volunteer information service on weekends at park head- appearing and reappearing streams. • Three easy nature trails begin here. quarters at Buttle Lake from June 20 through to September 6, 2008. No camping. Fish in Darkis Lake. The FRIENDS OF STRATHCONA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect, WILD GINGER (1) Loop Trail • Gates open May 15 to September 30th. Length: 800 metres. Time: 20 minutes. Access is • Picnic tables, fire rings, preserve and promote Strathcona Provincial Park. Tel: 250-337-1871 across the road from Ralph River Campground. water pumps and pit toilets. Box 3404, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 5N5 The trail follows the Ralph River. No camping. • Fee: $15.00 per party/night. SHEPHERD CREEK (1) Loop Trail $7.50 for extra vehicles. Length: 1.5 km. Suggested time: 1 hour and 15 • B.C Senior Citizens $7.50 per couple per night minutes. Access is across the road from Ralph (shoulder season only). BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR • Firewood for sale by the PFO. HIKING TRAILS, BOAT LAUNCH RAMPS, AND CAMPGROUNDS River Campground. A shady walk along the Ralph River then ascending to pass a lively marsh. See • Some campsites can be reserved ahead of time The trails are graded as follows: (1) Easiest (2) Moderate (3) Difficult dogwood trees in the spring. by contacting Discover Camping at No camping. 1-800-689-9025 or by going online at Trail conditions: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/strath/ www.discovercamping.ca PRICE CREEK TRAIL (2-3) from the parking lot at the mine. Walk past the Suggested time: 3-4 hours. Trail not maintained CREST LAKE PICNIC AREA Buttle Lake yellow gate on the gravel road for 1 km and and may proove difficult for inexperienced hikers. • Shaded picnic area, day use only. across a bridge to the start of the trail which is a Trailhead can be accessed near the Thelwood • Picnic tables and pit toilet, close to the lake. rough, rocky, steep old roadbed. Old-growth for- Creek Bridge. Originally the only access route to • Access left off Highway 28 heading West. est to sub-alpine. There is an undefined route to Cream Lake and still only suitable for Advanced • Short distance from Crest Mountain Trailhead. Hikers, this trail can make a pleasant day hike access Mt. Myra from here. Tennant Lake is DRIFTWOOD BAY GROUP CAMPGROUND dammed. Random camping is permitted. through varying timbered areas if you turn around at or before the log crossing. The route beyond • Private, covered shelter with woodstove BEDWELL LAKE (3) this log crossing is extremely rough and steep and and tables, large grass field, fire pit, pit Length: 6 km. Drive over the Thelwood River snow lingers late into the summer. toilets, wheel chair access pit toilet, water Photo: Neil Havers bridge at the south end of Buttle Lake, and turn pump, swimming area. LOWER MYRA FALLS (1) ELK RIVER TRAIL (2-3) left immediately onto the Jim Mitchell Road for • Fee: $15.00 per party per night. Length: 800 metres. Time: 30 minutes. Steep descent. Length: 11 km. Suggested time: 10 hours 6.8 km. This is a rough gravel road not suitable $7.50 for extra vehicles. Enjoy several beautiful water cascades. Elevation change 600 metres. Trail starts at Hwy. for small vehicles. Trail elevation change: 600 • Firewood for sale by the PFO. Use caution when approaching the creek, and 28 and follows the Elk River Valley for 10 km metres. Time 3-4 hours. Features river valley and • Fee for non profit youth and school groups supervise small children. No camping. before climbing up to Landslide Lake. Bare rock old growth forest then rocky out cropping and a $50.00 per night. sections. Camp in designated camping areas only. sub-alpine environment with excellent hiking and BUTTLE LAKE BOAT LAUNCH • Tel. 250-474-1336 to book the campground. CREST MOUNTAIN TRAIL views. Camp in designated areas at Baby Bedwell and A good, recently lengthened concrete launch. (3) BACKCOUNTRY & MARINE CAMPING FEE Closed until further notice Bedwell Lakes. Be aware of bears. Due to storm Located 1 km south of the bridge at the junction • $5.00 per night per person 13 years or older. Length: 5 km. Time: 3-4 hours to the tarn. Steep damage two wheel drive access is difficult and and only 1.5 km from Buttle Lake Campground. with an elevation change of 1,250 metres. motor homes are not recommended. No camping. The launch provides Caution required on single log creek crossing (the CREST CREEK CRAGS immediate access to the Rainbow last good water). The snow stays late into the year Technical climbing only. Picnic facilities. Climbers Island marine campsites. on top. Random camping allowed. can explore a number of rocky bluffs in this area FORBIDDEN PLATEAU EATERYEATERY & AND PARADISE MEADOWS FLOWER RIDGE TRAIL (3) which is easily accessible from alongside Highway CATERINGCATERING CO.CO. Length: 6 km. Time to the subalpine ridge: 3-5 28. Climbers using the area do so at their own Refer to a separate flyer in “The hours. Steep with an elevation change of 1,040 risk. It is each climber’s responsibility to climb Marmot” publication for informa- metres. The trail begins at Westmin Road, climb safely and ensure that they have the necessary skills tion about this area which is an additional 200 metres from the top of trail to to do so. Camping and fires are not permitted. accessible from Mount flat ground for tents. Poor water. Panoramic LADY FALLS (1) Washington. views. Camping possible at halfway point. Length: 900 metres. Time: 20 minutes. The trail CAMPGROUNDS PHILLIPS RIDGE TRAIL TO ARNICA LAKE (2-3) starts at Hwy. 28. Enjoy the cool spray from the RALPH RIVER CAMPGROUND Length: 6.5 km. Time: 2-5 hours with an falls. Picnic facilities at trailhead. No camping. elevation change of 800 metres. This is a well ELK VIEWPOINT (1) • Ancient forest, lake and river. graded trail beginning at North Vancouver Island Length: 400 metres. Time: 15 minutes. The trail • Gates are open May 15 to mine. Observe old growth forest, a waterfall, and starts at Hwy. 28 and accesses a viewing platform September 30th. alpine meadows. Designated camping area. where you may be able to see Vancouver Island’s • Picnic tables, fire rings, water pumps and pit toilets. UPPER MYRA FALLS (2) unique Roosevelt elk. No camping. • Fee: $15.00 per party per night, Length: 3.3 km from the parking lot past the yel- LUPIN FALLS (1) Loop Trail Open 7 days a week for $7.50 for extra vehicles. low gate. Drive through the mine area to find the Length: 800 metres. Time: 15 minutes. Access from Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • B.C Senior Citizens $7.50 per parking lot. Time 1 ~ 1 1/2 hours. Elevation Westmin Road. Walk a circular trail through a couple per night change: 100 metres. Trail follows gravel road for cool forest to the waterfalls. No camping. Picnic (shoulder season only). approx. 800 metres to the sign. Large trees. Views facilities at the trail-head and a canoe and kayak Family restaurant featuring home-style cooking, • Firewood for sale by the PFO. of Mt. Myra and a waterfall. No camping. Use cau- launch access for Wolf River and Titus Mt. • Reservations are NOT taken, kids’ play area and full seniors’ menu. Deck open tion due to winter storm damage. marine campsites. however the TENNENT LAKE AUGER POINT for the summer. Large groups welcome. (3) (1) Loop Trail campground is rarely full. Closed until further notice Length: 400 metres. Time: 15 minutes. This www.platescatering.com Length: 4 km. Estimated time 2-4 hours with an forest is recovering from the fire of 1982. No camp- BUTTLE LAKE CAMPGROUND elevation change of 840 metres. Trail access is ing. Picnicking facilities at trail-head and • Sand beach and playground. 2601 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay 250-334-8087 22 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

Strathcona Wilderness Institute 2009 Family Programs continued Family Programs ~ Saturdays (1:00pm) Sun, July 26 • Lakes, Lakes, Lakes Hike and picnic Guest Expert Walks ~ Sundays (1:00pm) at Croteau Lake. An easy to moderate 5 hour hike Quality Printers of... travels over very uneven terrain through old growth weekly and monthly newsprint Discover the many natural features of Strathcona Park by participating in a series forests and past beautiful lakes. Meet at the interpre- publications, fl yers, recreation brochures, of family oriented programs on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer put tation center at 10:00 am. Bring lunch and water. newsletters, newspapers and magazines. on by the Strathcona Wilderness Institute, a non-profit society. Sun, Aug 2 • Watersheds and Mountains of Distribution available through our community newspapers from Victoria to Special note for persons with mobility issues Strathcona Provincial Park Link high altitude Port Hardy. lakes to familiar lowland rivers and learn where all Paradise Meadows new loop trail is wheelchair accessible! Call for a free estimate - Victoria: 250-727-2460 the famous mountains and glaciers lay using the or Ladysmith: 250-245-0350 Strathcona Park model at the interpretation center A Division of Share your favourite aspects of nature in Strathcona Park this summer with as a focal piece. Short hike may follow. Strathcona Wilderness Institute’s “Lights, Sounds and Action in a Paradise Sun, Aug 9 • Sub-Alpine Flowers Local expert www.blackpress.ca Meadows” , a series of family-oriented nature programs designed to get you moving and Fred Constable provides an in depth look at the exploring. There is no cost to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated. The mid-summer flowers of Paradise Meadows. Strathcona Wilderness Institute is a non-profit society. Sun, Aug 16 • Damsels and Dragon The shiny Families & children (aged 7 ~ 12 years) are welcome for Saturday programs (a hike, spe- flyers. Naturalist Tyler Johns brings his nets for cial topic and a creative wrap-up activity) from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. Adults can attend guid- families to learn about the insects in Paradise ed walks on Sunday afternoons, 1 ~3pm. See the schedule for specifics or earlier times Meadows. Starts at 10:00 am! for longer hikes. Sun, Aug 23 • Leaves and Stars Capturing solar Published for your convenience by Rick Gibson energy on earth. Astronomer stream-keeper Roy of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley. All programs start at the NEW Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre located in BC Myers uses unique visuals to relate the properties Parks parking lot next to the Raven Lodge. To get there, follow the inland island high- If you are looking for more information, wish of leaves and makes some astonishing cosmic to advertise, or want to submit information in way heading north from Courtenay or south from Campbell River and take Exit 130, connections. future issues contact us at (250) 334-3124 Strathcona Parkway. Follow the paved road and signs to the Raven Lodge, where you’ll Sun, Aug 30 • Hike to Lake Beautiful and or by e-mail: [email protected] find ample parking. Remember to dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen and Cruickshank Canyon A spectacular hike through Editorial: bugspray. If you are setting out on your own expedition, visit the Strathcona Park beautiful meadows and forests to an amazing Susan Quinn Sales: Wilderness Centre to exchange trail information, or to obtain maps or books. viewpoint. This moderate to strenuous hike will Wendy Woodley Ph. The Centre will be open from July 4 through to September Labour Day Weekend (10 take 8 - 9 hours return. Bring LOTS of water and 250-897-3678 am - 4 pm, Saturday & Sunday). This may be extended depending on the availability of food. Meet at the Info Hut by 8:00 am. E-Mail: [email protected] Design/Production: volunteers. To find out more about the Strathcona Havers Design Wilderness Institute and programs visit Printed in Canada 2009 Family Programs our website: www.strathconapark.org or To read past issues of The Marmot go to call 250-337-1871. www.milehigh.ca Sun, July 5 • Birth of a Sub-Alpine Summer Helen Mackenzie / Battleship Lake Loop. Observe the thaw and For more program details contact appearance of life in this easy 3 hour hike. Meet at the interpretation center at 11:00 am. Bring food and water. the Strathcona Wilderness Institute Sun, July 12 • Rocks and Flowers Author and naturalist E. Chris Pielou talks about geology and early sub-alpine at 250-285-3181 flowers. Sat, July 18 • Celebrate Parks Day with Strathcona Wilderness Institute and friends, 10:00 - 4:00 pm. Meet some The volunteers there can update you on of the groups and people involved with Strathcona Park, like Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue. Look for more trail conditions and hiking destinations. details in your local newspapers. For all programs please remember to be Sun, July 19 • Meet Your Sub-Alpine Trees Registered professional forester Margaret Symon shares fascinating prepared for all weather conditions and facts about the trees and the ecology of the area. May go longer than two hours if the weather is nice. to tread lightly through the park.

VENDING VENDING MACHINES Visit THAT PROVIDE For up to date Properties For Sale CANADIAN TIRE COMMISSIONS! see Channel 4 on Mount Washington. COURTENAY Available for your office, before you showroom, clubhouse, Cablevision on Mount Washington lobby etc… head to the Access to 40+ channels plus movie Campbell River to Victoria great outdoors! channels (for an additional cost). Contact Internet Ski Pack $199.00 ~ Call for details “Vending Expert Bill” • CAMPING • CYCLING • HIKING 250-755-1828 High Speed Internet • FISHING • GARDENING [email protected] Now Available • BBQS & OUTDOOR LIVING Serving Mount Washington Alpine Resort and ALL of Coastline Broadcasting Vancouver Island with Quality Snack and Drink Machines, OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE Good Service and Honest Commissions. Tel/Fax: 250-337-1824 2250-755-182850-755-1828 • wwww.cybercityadventures.comww.cybercityadventures.com [email protected] 338-0101 278 North Island Highway, Courtenay 1502 Seaview Road, Black Creek, BC V9W 6E3 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 23

Photo: Oli Gardner Adopt a When you join the Adopt-a-Marmot Club, you help protect the endangered Vancouver Island marmot Marmot every day of the year. Pre-arranged monthly gifts are a convenient way to help save this beautiful and special This is a great way creature from extinction.Your gift supports the field to help this endan- research and captive-breeding that's so critical to mar- gered species as well mot survival. For instance, your contribution will help as an opportunity fund ear-tagging of wild marmots, which is the only for you to to learn way in which we can identify and track individual more about these marmots and the success of recovery efforts in future interesting creatures years. When you adopt-a-marmot you'll receive: • Your personalized marmot adoption certificate • Your full-color poster of a Vancouver Island Marmot • Your official recovery project newsletter (The Marmoteer) • Your special year-end report about individual marmots For more info go to www.marmots.org/adopt.htm 60-70 Marmots to be Released this Summer on Vancouver Island

A remarkable year is planned for grow to the stage it can now produce the extremely rare Vancouver release animals in the numbers needed to Island Marmot. affect real and positive change in the wild population. Thanks to these Visitor Centres for distributing The Marmot Did you know the largest natural and “The wild population has grown from a continuously occupied colony of low of less than 30 known marmots to an Campbell River 1-877-286-5705 287-4636 www.visitorcentre.ca Vancouver Island marmots live right here estimated 140-160 marmots and they can Alberni Valley 250-724-6535 www.avcoc.com on Mt Washington? now be found on 22 mountains (up from Comox Valley 1-888-357-4471 334-3234 www.discovercomoxvalley.com And did you know the Marmot only 4 in 2003). With a little luck, ade- Recovery Foundation expects to release quate funding and determination we Cumberland 1-866-301-INFO 336-8313 www.cumberlandbc.org 60-70 of the rare marmots to natural VIM hope to increase that number to 200-250 Duncan-Cowichan 1-888-303-3337 746-4636 www.duncancc.bc.ca habitat on the Island this summer? by the end of the year. That’s still a tiny Nanaimo 1-800-663-7337 756-0106 www.tourismnanaimo.com “Thanks to the success of our captive population by any measurement but it’s Parksville 250-248-3613 www.chamber.parksville.bc.ca breeding program we’re facing a very heading in the right direction towards the busy release schedule”, said executive Recovery Strategy goal of 600 marmots in Quadra Island 250-285-2058 www.discoveryislands.ca director Viki Jackson. “Our captive the wild,” Viki said. Qualicum Beach 250-752-9532 www.qualicum.bc.ca breeding partners at the Calgary and Saanich Peninsula 250-656-0525 www.spcoc.org Toronto zoos, Mountain View The Marmot Recovery Foundation is Conservation & Breeding Centre and our a unique coalition of stakeholders own Mt Washington Marmot Recovery whose primary partners include TimberWest, Island Timberlands, the Centre are all achieving excellent results, HELP SAVE THE VANCOUVER ISLAND MARMOT! which means we’re now able to release public through the Marmot Recovery Foundation and the provincial govern- marmots in numbers that will really Name ______make a difference to the wild popula- ment. Address ______tion.” “We have a lot of work cut out for us The Recovery Strategy goal is to estab- this year as we attempt to release record City ______Prov ______lish three sustainable meta-populations numbers of marmots to the wild. It’s kind Country ______Postal Code ______on Vancouver Island with a total popula- of like sprinting across the finish line of a I’d like to help our Marmots with a tax-creditable donation. Please accept my gift of: tion of approximately 600 marmots. marathon,” she said. “We need as much ❑ $25 ❑ $50 ❑ $100 ❑ other “This is the Foundation’s 11th year of help as we can muster for this final phase operation and we’re finally measuring to ensure all the hard work and invest- Sign me up! I want to join the Adoption Club: ❑ $120 for one year, OR the results of our labour with real ment of the last 10 years pays off with a Per month: ❑ $10 ❑ $15 ❑ $20 ❑ $25 progress in the wild.” restored Vancouver Island marmot popu- I authorize the Marmot Recovery Foundation to deduct the above amount from my chequing account monthly. (I lation for the world to enjoy along with have enclosed a blank cheque marked VOID for processing purposes.) The first 2nd generation pups from the many other natural wonders of the Signature ______released captive born marmots were born Island we’re so proud of.” YOUR GUARANTEE: You can change or cancel your pledge at any time. at Haley Lake last spring (SW of “The marmots have done their part, we METHOD OF PAYMENT Nanaimo) and this spring we’re expecting must make sure we do ours,” Viki said. ❑ pups to be born in Strathcona Park. That Cheque payable to: Marmot Recovery Foundation will be the first time pups have been born For more information or to make a donation ❑ Visa ❑ Mastercard to help save the Vancouver Island marmot go in the park since they were extirpated Card # ______Expiry Date ______to www.marmots.org there more than a decade ago,” said Viki. Signature ______It has taken several years for the cap- Marmot Recovery Foundation www.marmots.org Registered Charity # tive breeding program to mature and Box 2332, Station A, Nanaimo, B.C., Canada V9R 6X6 Fax: 250-753-8070 88998 0629 RR0001 24 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

100% BC Grocery Store Located outside the Fresh Meats Mountains of Spectacular Specials Daily! entrance to CFB Comox Deli & Produce Kitchen open from 11 am ~ 10 pm! Ryan Road at Military Row, Comox 244 ~ 4th Street y'y 2y9:88y'y 5 3 Whether you’re a ‘Snow Enthusiast’ or a ‘Snow Bunny’ Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 4pm Billy D’s is the place for you to warm up, relax and enjoy! Downtown Courtenay @y4y y3K2  Ly 2yNOOyO2yH2C 250-334-8163 T. 250-334-8811 268 ~ 5th Street, Downtown Courtenay “Deliciously Local” 2 H2 y K  H Check out our entire menu at www.billydspub.com Ph/Fax: (250) 339-8162 HOME OF THE 55 MARTINIS Check out our Weekly Specials at www.ourbigearth.com www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca Stay&Play... Shop&Dine! Be sure to come down to the COMOX VALLEY as part of your visit to MOUNT WASHINGTON. There is plenty to offer the culinary enthusiast as the Comox Valley’s agri and culinary sector is growing strong with an incredible diversity of farm fresh and value-added products available to consumers throughout the Comox Valley. Stop in at the weekly year-round Comox Valley Farmers Market on Saturday mornings or buy direct the incredible bounty and value-added product of the region from the producers themselves. From award-winning artisan cheese to internationally renown local oysters, the Valley produces incredible food! And what better way to enjoy the local foods of the Comox Valley than with a beverage produced locally as well. With a growing list of beverage producers including several wineries, a gin and vodka distillery, and a microbrewery, you won’t go thirsty in the Comox Valley. Experience the tastes of the Comox Valley with a visit to one of many local eateries specializing in serving locally grown and produced foods. The style of dining is as varied as the items they offer and include waterfront restaurants, downtown bistros, entertaining pubs, and inviting cafes. The Comox Valley Growers Guide is a great place to plan your culinary tour of this Land of Plenty, and is complete with listings of farms, wineries, and restau- rants and touring maps. Pick up a copy at local Visitor Centres or download it from www.discovercomoxvalley.com.

BENINO GELATO Local family operat- it! Everyday is deliciously local at in stock. 2020 Cliffe ~ beside the Visitor eateries, a fabulous museum and theatre, ed gelateria serving home-made gelato ~ Brambles Market. Info Centre ~ Courtenay. art galleries, parks, and more, and it's available by the scoop or take home tub. easy to see why DOWNTOWN Our Comox location also features Caffe COMOX AIR FORCE MUSEUM COURTENAY AND DISTRICT MUSE- COURTENAY is one of the most charm- Umbria, Italian roast coffee and other An amazing collection of military and UM AND PALAEONTOLOGY CENTRE ing downtowns on Vancouver Island. specialty hot drinks. west coast aviation artifacts, aircraft and Explore 80 million years of history memorabilia awaits you. Visitors praise through active year-round programming Located in the Heart of Downtown BILLY D'S PUB & BISTRO “HOME OF the collection which covers a period from and field trips at the Courtenay and Courtenay, EDIBLE ISLAND WHOLE THE 55 MARTINIS” on 5th Street, down- WW1 to current times. The second District Museum ~ the Comox Valley's FOODS MARKET provides nutrition- town Courtenay. Come see why we are largest aviation library in Canada and a center for cultural and natural heritage. conscious shoppers a complete and known for our huge nachos and appys, a well stocked gift shop are also part of the Located in historic downtown Courtenay, extensive selection of organic whole variety of burgers, wraps and salads, and attraction. at Fourth and Cliffe Avenue. foods, produce, local breads, baked our famous marinated 6oz. N.Y. Steak www.courtenaymuseum.ca goods and meats, all the groceries, house- sandwich. Mmmm, Mmmm good! Come COMOX CENTRE MALL is convenient- hold cleaning options, plus quality sup- in as a customer ~ leave as friend! ly located in the heart of Comox. Enjoy Discover one of the most unique and plements and fabulous body care alterna- Check out our entire menu at everything from eateries, fashion, gifts, vibrant downtowns on Vancouver Island! tives. www.billydspub.com beauty supplies, groceries, pharmacy and Just a 30 minute drive from Mount other general stores. Stop and enjoy the Washington, DOWNTOWN COURTE- GLACIER GREENS GOLF CLUB invites BRAMBLES MARKET is the 1st gro- view of the Comox Wharf, the Beaufort NAY offers an eclectic mix of locally you to discover the unbeatable value and cery store in Canada to sell only local Mountains and the Seaside. owned shops and services. From cozy friendly service that have made it one of food! They specialize in meat from the www.comoxmall.ca bookshops to cutting-edge fashion, fresh the finest courses in the Comox Valley. Comox Valley, produce that is picked at flowers to artisan chocolates, antique GLACIER GREENS offers excellent facili- the peak of ripeness, and most of your COMOX VALLEY KAYAKS Our friend- treasurers to fossil discovery tours, ties including a covered range and grass everyday pantry items. If you are looking ly shop provides the Comox Valley with DOWNTOWN COURTENAY has some- tees, a full service Pro Shop, a fully for amazing food, without hormones, quality sea kayak and canoe sales, rentals, thing for everyone, all in one convenient licensed restaurant with meeting and pesticides or other chemicals, they have lessons, and guided paddles. We also location. Add to this, a wide range of banquet facilities, and a beautiful out- have a great selection of kayak accessories

The Comox Valley is a place of supernatural beauty offering rich cultural and outdoor Come Discover ! Great Golf and Great Value on this experiences, a culinary bounty from land & sea, manicured 18 hole Championship public golf course. stunning alpine to ocean resorts & spas and Facilities include a covered range and grass tees, full most importantly, flat out fun! Monday to Friday (11:30am - 2pm) service Pro Shop, fully licensed restaurant patio. Monday to Saturday (5pm - 9pm) Visitor Info: 1-888-357-4471 Tee Times: (250) 339-6515 • www.glaciergreens.com www.discovercomoxvalley.com Off Knight Road, just past the airport. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 25

✴ Just a 30 minute drive from Mount Washington ✴ ✴ Superb Shopping ✴ ✴ Delectable Dining ✴ ✴ Exciting Entertainment ✴ CULTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE OF THE COMOX VALLEY with the times to provide goo anging d times Ch ! www.comoxvalleykayaks.com Courtenay & District Museum The Centre of your and Palaeontology Centre Rentals • Day Tours • Lessons Year Round Field Trips • Changing Exhibits Kayak & Canoe Sales Children's Programmes www.comoxmall.ca Ph: 250-334-0686 • 207 Fourth St., Courtenay, BC 215 Port Augusta Street, Comox Toll Free: 1-888-545-5595 www.courtenaymuseum.ca

Discovering Points North and South... door patio overlooking the 18th green and don't forget the BEST HOME COOK- Mount Washington Alpine Resort is FISHING CHARTERS Every year, mil- undulating fairways and a two-storey ING in the Valley. For great golf, spectac- an idyllic resort nestled beside the lions of migrating salmon travel through clubhouse for the 19th hole. Pacific ular views and fabulous food ~ swing by Beaufort Range, midway between Discovery Passage on their way to spawn Playgrounds is a nine-hole, par-4 execu- GLACIER GREENS, located on Knight the Comox Valley and Campbell in their birth rivers. Visitors can fish for tive course located at Saratoga Beach and Road, just past the Comox Valley Airport. River. It is a retreat, an eco-experi- Chinook year round. Tyees (Chinooks featuring a full pro shop and driving weighing more than 30 pounds) are range. Hone your short game here. www.glaciergreens.com ence or an extreme adventure. found July through September. Coho is SARATOGA SPEEDWAY is so much KINAREE THAI CUISINE is a family The Resort is also well situated to be available June to September. Sockeye and more than a racetrack: it’s a family fun owned restaurant located downtown, one the jumping-off point for an extended pinks are prevalent from mid-July to destination. The track boasts a full week- block from Thrifty Foods, at 8th & Vancouver Island adventure. August. end racing schedule from May to Fitzgerald. We invite you to come and The resort is less than an hour away Fishers can take a boat charter, fly fish October. But race fans can also take a ride enjoy our exquisite Thai décor and from Campbell River, half an hour from from the shore of many rivers in the area around the 3/8-mile oval track in go- authentic Thai menu for the real meaning the Comox Valley and an hour from or beach-cast for Coho or sea run cut- karts, or take a spin through the forest in of Thai food. Parksville and Qualicum Beach, making throat trout. Pegasus, a monster truck. There’s outdoor experiences further afield more accessible MID ISLAND GIFTS Great gift ideas for ELK FALLS PROVINCIAL PARK Laser tag courtesy of North Island than ever. your home, friends or family, showcasing A thundering waterfall and some of the Battlefield, and mini golf or ice cream at a wide variety of local artists, crafts and finest year-round salmon fishing in the country market beside the speedway. products. Unique, affordable gifts and Canada are two of the reasons Elk Falls is www.saratogaspeedway.bc.ca. travel necessities, all in one place, includ- one of the most popular provincial parks ing a selection of 2010 merchandise. on Vancouver Island. The park boasts an Open 9 a.m. ~ 7 p.m. daily at the Comox extensive network of trails of all levels, Valley Airport. the Quinsam salmon hatchery and it’s close – only two kilometers from down- Discover the ultimate in relaxed comfort town Campbell River. at PENNY TYME FASHIONS. Featuring STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK the latest Sandwich, Tommy Bahama, Strathcona is B.C.’s oldest provincial Ribkoff, Animale, Sympli and many more Photo courtesy Tourism Campbell River & Region park. Two of the most popular ways to fashions from Canada and Europe. Make Photo courtesy Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community Campbell River explore the park are through Paradise time for PENNY TYME FASHIONS - your Meadows beside Mount Washington FIRST stop for affordable, quality, time- Comox Valley Campbell River is the North Island’s gate- Alpine Resort, and through the Buttle less fashions! way to outdoor recreation or eco-touring. Lake area in the north. There is also the GOLF The Valley offers everything from THE RIDING FOOL HOSTEL is a DISCOVERY PIER Campbell River is iconic Strathcona Park Lodge, where eco- an 18-hole championship course at Tourism B.C. Approved heritage prop- known as the Salmon Capital of the experiences begin. Crown Isle Golf Resort to challenging erty in historic downtown Cumberland. World. The fact that it has Canada’s first GOLF Campbell River boasts champi- 18 holes at Sunnydale Golf Course and We offer private rooms and dorm style saltwater fishing pier underlines this fact. onship golfing at the 18-hole Storey Glacier Greens Golf Course and 9 holes accommodation, full kitchen, BBQ, large Located in the 700-block of the Island Creek Golf Course, which received a at Comox Golf Club. Mulligan’s Golf common area, a free pool table, gear stor- Highway parallel to the government har- four-star award from Golf Digest’s Places Centre on Cotton Road is the Valley’s age, free internet terminal & wireless sig- bour breakwater, the 600-foot-long pier to Play. But it’s not the only premier only Par 4 and Par 3 executive course, nal. “Best hostel on Vancouver Island” is used year-round. It’s wheelchair acces- course in the region. Sequoia Springs while Longland’s is the original Par 3 Lonely Planet B.C. sible and a concession operates from May Golf Course offers 18 holes of lush, course in the Comox Valley. continued on page 26 1 to Sept. 30. continued on page 26

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Shop & Dine friendly service. Gorgeous garden patio. Points North & South cial events and the annual Filberg Festival continued from page 25 Healthy kid's menu. TITA'S is open continued from page 25 on the August long weekend. The lodge every night at 4 p.m. www.titas.ca RECREATION: Better choices ~ Better KAYAKING Kayaks are a staple along the is situated in nine acres of landscaped Future. Discover the many features of TULIO's CASITA offers Fine Dining Courtenay River and in the Courtenay grounds on the Comox waterfront. More the Comox Valley's regional parks and with a Mediterranean flavour. Family Estuary, especially in the summer. info: www.filberg.com recreation facilities. Our sport and aquat- owned and operated, TULIO's has been Launches are available at Simms COMOX MARINA PARK Marina Park is ic centres offer a wave pool, lap pool, serving the Comox Valley for over 34 Millennium Park on the Courtenay a focal point on Comox’s waterfront. The steam room, sauna, hot tub, wellness years. To enjoy their specialties of Steak, Slough, or from the marina beside the urban park features plenty of parking, centre and arenas. For more information Schnitzel, Seafood or Lamb at your Courtenay Airpark. Lessons are available washroom facilities, a pier along the visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca favourite table, call your Hostess, Teresa from several companies, including breakwater and walkway as well as a at 338-6031 for a reservation. Open for Comox Valley Kayaks. Feeling romantic? Visit THE playground popular with the younger set. dinner Tuesday to Saturday, 625 Cliffe ROMANCE SHOP on Cliffe Avenue, Avenue - at 6th in beautiful downtown FARMERS’ MARKETS The Comox near 5th St. This upscale Adult Boutique Courtenay. Valley is considered an agricultural is where lovers and romantics of all ages hotspot, with 119 farms spanning 30,000 shop. Celebrating 10 years of Romantic VALHALLA PURE OUTFITTERS are acres. From May through October, the and Erotic Adventures. We are the Canada's "MOUNTAIN SPORTS" Comox Valley Farmers’ Market offers Romance Experts! Finest quality massage Specialists! They pride themselves on fresh, organic and specialty products on oils, personal lubricants and sexy lin- having the BEST Gear from the BEST Saturdays at the exhibition grounds and gerie. Browse through the amazing and Brands at the BEST Prices - Guaranteed! Wednesdays near downtown Courtenay. fun sex toy department. Book you They feature an amazing selection of out- GOOSE SPIT REGIONAL PARK Goose Romance Home Party today! Stores in door clothing, footwear, backpacks, Spit is one of the most popular beaches in Victoria, Duncan and Courtenay. Photo courtesy Oceanside Tourism Assn. climbing equipment, travel accessories, the Comox Valley. It offers an oceanfront and in winter, telemark and ski touring With SIMPLY AMISH FURNITURE, beach on one side and a sheltered lagoon Oceanside gear. VALHALLA PURE OUTFITTERS... you're the ultimate designer by choosing on the other; picnic tables, road access for the adventure! Open every day ~ 219 the wood, stain and hardware, that with parking, toilets – and fabulous sce- The Parksville and Qualicum Beach 5th Street ~ Downtown Courtenay. makes your furniture unique. Using nic views in all weather. region is home to some of the most pop- ular tourist attractions in central North America's richest hardwoods and WHISTLE STOP PUB serves the best SIMMS MILLENNIUM PARK A Year Vancouver Island. For more info visit handcrafted with seasoned hands ~ it’s a pub food in the Valley. Ocean view din- 2000 project, Simms Millennium Park is www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com “work of art”. ing, two patios, Valleys best draft selec- located across from Lewis Park. The park tion, plus friendly, knowledgeable staff. features meandering walkways through THE 7 WONDERS OF OCEANSIDE: THAI VILLAGE RESTAURANT A tasty Live music every weekend. The liquor the trees, a kayak launch, toilets and a • Cathedral Grove • Horne Lake Caves way to end a beautiful day. Relax and store always has a selected beer, spirit gazebo used for community gatherings • Milner Gardens & Woodlands savour the fresh, healthy and exotic and wine, below government store and concerts. flavours of traditional Thai cuisine • Rathtrevor Beach Park prices. famous around the world! Summer AIRPARK WALKWAY The Courtenay • The Landing Restaurant Aquarium hours ~ Lunch ~ Tuesday to Friday, ZEN ZERO JUICE FOUNTAIN 5th & Riverside Walkway begins at the end of • The Boot @ Paradise Adventure Golf Dinner starts @ 4:30 p.m., Closed England, Courtenay ~ offers fresh juices, Sixth Street and follows the Courtenay • Old School House Arts Centre Monday. River to the Airpark. The walkway circles smoothies, wheat grass, Vegan sandwich- COOMBS and particularly the Goats on es and wraps, wheat free treats and raw Courtenay Airpark. The walkway features TITA'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT the Roof, is a popular place in the sum- delights, kiddie play area, free wi-if and a restaurant, washrooms and view pavil- Gourmet Mexican cuisine inspired by the mertime. The goats have posed for count- sunny patio. Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. ions at the end of the estuary. freshest local produce and seafood. less photos during the past 36 years that - 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. FILBERG LODGE AND PARK The rus- Incredible margaritas made with fresh the Old Country Market has operated. tic heritage Filberg lodge has become a fruit from TITA'S own garden. Warm and The market boasts fresh produce, gifts focal point for weddings, art shows, spe- from around the world and groceries.

Ltd. Fine Cuisine TheThe ggearearear isis hehhere.ere. Steaks - Seafood - Schnitzel Fresh juices & smoothies, Vegan sanwiches Fully Licensed Dining Room Live music every Weekend Wraps, wheat free treats & Raw delights Reservations Recommended Outdoor Decks ~ Best “Pub Grub” in the Valley No synthesized sugar or flavour syrups 250-338-6031 Open Daily: 9am-2am Just 100% real ingredients TRAVEL SKI TOUR

Photo: Arc'teryx Photo: image To Quench your thirst for life! 8-625 Cliffe Avenue, CLIMB TREK BACKCPACK Liquor Store: 9am-11pm Courtenay, BC www.vpo.ca 2355 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay, BC 250-334-4500 Corner of Fifth & England, Courtenay 338-0571 The BEST Gear at the BEST Prices - Guaranteed! Go to www.zenzero.ca for menu THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 27

One of the things she particularly loves COASTLINE Kate Dodd continued from page 3 about working at Mount Washington is BROADCASTING LTD. She was working in an accounting firm the sense of teamwork. “I feel down at my is a locally owned and operated in the Comox Valley in 1995 when core that things are done best in teams. digital broadcast Cablevision Mount Washington advertised for an I’m free to explore new ideas around here system serving Mount Washington. accountant. A prairie girl through and because of the support and input and 2 Program Guide through, Dodd wasn’t sure she wanted to vision of the people I work with,” she 3 CBC North work in a mountain resort, until she went said. “That’s actually my favourite part of 4 Mount Washington Real Estate for her interview. Now she hasn’t looked the job – how much people want to con- 5 ABC KOMO Seattle back. tribute. How much this is a team.” 6 CBS KIRO Seattle In 2006 Dodd took over as Director of When she’s not working, Dodd can be 7 KVOS Bellingham Interpretive Centre Finance. Dodd loves the way the atmos- found working in her garden, around the 8 ITV house or traveling with daughter and continued from page 4 phere at the Resort changes virtually with 9 NBC - King son, both who are in post-secondary The building will feature interpretive dis- the weather. “It’s truly seasonal,” she says. 10 Mile High Mount Washington “In winter there’s 800 staff here. It’s filled school. Community Channel plays, books for sale on the local area and with happy holidayers; people’s inten- Last summer she built a brick patio in 11 FOX-KCPQ Seattle maps. The institute will have a relief tions when they come here is to have fun, her backyard and redid her driveway in 12 BCTV Vancouver model map of the Park on display, too. so for the most part were assisting them brick. This year she is remodeling the 13 TSN Toronto The building will serve as a base for the in something good.” second floor of her Comox home. “We 14 TBS SWI’s walks and talks. Smith said the The off-season sees the core staff stripped it down to the 2x4s,” she says. 15 The Learning Channel SWI hopes to extend its hours of use, but shrink. There’s a mini-burst of activity Her daughter’s boyfriend, who lives 16 YTV Toronto will have to rely on volunteers for now. when the summer season kicks off, then with Dodd’s family, is doing a lot of the 17 WGN Chicago Smith is proud of the interpretive cen- work, and Dodd does the finishing work. 18 Knowledge Network tre and what it represents. “We’ve always all of a sudden it’s autumn and time to prepare for the winter season again. “What I really want to learn is the build- 20 Super Channel (Pay TV) thought, this is a major park; it is the ing stuff – actual construction of things,” 21 Movie Max (Pay TV) biggest park on Vancouver Island and it’s “Every five years I’ve changed careers, for my whole life. Until I got here,” says she says. “I think it’s because it’s the 22 TFC Family Channel the first Provincial Park in B.C. Its birth- opposite of work that I really love to do 23 CHVU day is March 2011. We thought this Dodd. “Now I’ve changed positions every five years but still stay with the moun- things hands on.” 24 CH would be a really good thing to have for Dodd has always traveled since she was 25 Much Music when the Park celebrates its 100th birth- tain. It has yet to bore me – it’s so much fun.” young. With a family she has done sum- 26 WSBK day,” he said. “It’s a way to showcase the mer road trips to Los Angeles, down the 27 CBUT Park.” Oregon Coast and back to Winnipeg. 28 CBMT One year they traveled to Quebec and 29 CTV “We have three dryland (physical) camps drove around the Gaspé Peninsula. She 30 CNN Ski Clubs Keep Busy on the books for the summer where we hopes to travel more in the coming years. 31 KCTS PBS Seattle continued from page 6 will work on the ABCs — agility, balance, “That’s my dream, once the kids are out 32 CMT He will undergo knee surgery in the co-ordination and speed,” Trimmer said. of school. That’s when I’m hoping to be 33 CNN Headline News summer and expects to be back in action “We hope to incorporate a gymnastics able to travel further abroad.” 34 A&E ✂ in time for the winter season. camp and a water camp into the mix.” Three destinations on her list of places 35 Discovery The rest of the Club’s athletes will work The club has two summer-on-snow to see are New Orleans, Greece and 36 CBC Newsworld on self-directed training programs camps booked, at Blackcomb in July and Ireland. But she’ll always return home - 37 Prime throughout the summer. Mount Hood, Oregon in August. to Mount Washington. 38 Outdoor Life (Pay TV) Summer’s all about ABCs “Athletes had a great year last season at 39 Sportsnet (Pay TV) for Mount Washington Ski Club every level in the Club, and are super 40 Extreme Sports (Pay TV) keen to work hard through the sum- 41 Space (Pay TV) John Trimmer and the Mount mer/fall on and off snow to 42 Speedvision (Pay TV) Washington Ski Club’s other coaches ensure that next season is 43 History (Pay TV) spent a weekend in May conducting even better,” Trimmer said. physical training for their athletes. They The Club’s cabin will also went on the road after that, setting up undergo some big changes individual training programs that they this summer: “We are will continue to monitor throughout the expanding to better serve All your needs from foundations to finishing. summer. our membership.” The club has also set up a few camps The Sharidan Team has more than 12 years for its athletes between now and winter. experience building on Mount Washington Luxury from minor repairs to chalet construction . Accommodations • Foundations including ICF’s in Deer Lodge • Complete Envelopes • Gutters and Soffits • Gourmet kitchen with casual • Licenced Journeymen • Incorporated and Insured Winter In Review island dining for four. continued from page 5 • Dining Room has been decorated There were many positives among the in a Grotto motif challenges of the season, Sharpe said, • After dinner relax in the Living Room. chiefly the 2009 International Paralympic • Four-piece bathroom complete Committee (IPC) World Cup event in with a washer and dryer. March. The event drew 150 people from Cell. 250-850-4035 20 nations to the Resort for a week. “We Res. 250-923-8117 had perfect weather for it,” he said. “It www.bearsnose.ca was sunny, crystal clear every day.” Campbell River, BC 28 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009

Rick Gibson Peak Performance serving the Mount Washington Real Estate market since 1989.

250-334-3124 (24 hrs) Business Opportunity! Direct: 250-338-1723 Lovingly Cared For! Heart of the Village! Snow clearing business for sale [email protected] 2 bedroom condo in the Alpine on Mount Washington. Full serv- Tucked in the woods with sunset Your Home Away Village of Mount Washington. Well ice business that has contracts on views, this mountain home has it all. From Home! Very large spacious living areas with 2 cared for unit with upgrades. 2 bath- many of the residential large and bedrooms. This mountain home rooms and loads of storage. The 3 Bedroom Condo! Ski from the front small buildings. Established with away from home has been lovingly building itself is in very good condi- door west to the Green Chair, or east clientele and all equipment. Seller cared for by its original owners and is tion with a live in caretaker. Easily to the Sunrise Quad. Easy 3 minute will train new owner. Information looking for a new family to call it located in the heart of the Village with walk from parking and the General packages available only to serious their new mountain home. Easy easy access to slopes and parking. Store. Corner unit with both east and qualified buyers. $99,900 access to skiing and parking. south views, including the Comox $189,900 $212,000 Glacier! Well maintained inside and out, in a quiet family four plex with nice neighbours. Open floor plan, a Looking for a Building Site on Mount Washington? "cooks kitchen" with a view of the mer enjoyment. Summer parking in Glacier while you prepare gourmet front of the building. "Castle Crag No GST! Foundation & Plans Included! meals for friends and family. Wood Chateau" would make a perfect fam- Located on the Benchlands overlooking Strathcona One of the few remaining chalet lots in the Alpine Village of burning fireplace, and easy access to ily retreat, winter and summer for Park, is this large building site, easy access to ski- Mount Washington. Price includes plan for an impressive chalet. common wood pile in the basement. your family, just has it has done for ing and Strathcona Park. There are few building The foundation has been completed. Spectacular location with Waxing room in the basement, plus a the owners for the past twenty years. areas left on the mountain and this one is the clos- easy access to parking and ski in and out location $349,900 large storage locker for each owner. $212,500 est to Hawk Chair. $187,500 Screens on all windows for your sum-

Warm up to great service, book your fall maintenance today!

Your legal experts offering extensive experience with Mount Washington property transfers for over 25 years. Paul R. Ives • Real Estate & Mark Burger Property Development • Corporate Law Michelle L. Perry • Commercial Law Don’t chance the hard, cold reality of • Civil Litigation a heating system malfunction in the • Wills & Estates middle of winter. Schedule your heating • Divorce & Family Law system clean and check now to ensure • ICBC & Personal Injury that it’s in top working order for the cold days ahead. • Plumbing Upgrades & Repairs 334-2416 • Preventative Maintenance & Repairs [email protected] • Discounts for Multiple Units Fax: 334-3198 • 24/7 Emergency Service www.ivesburgerlaw.com Improving your world, inside and out. 505-5th Street, Courtenay, BC (Corner of 5th & Fitzgerald) MARM09 www.torryandsons.com - 250-338-8865 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 29

Features Include: Features Include: Features Include: • Outdoor Swimming Pool, Sauna & Hot Tub • Slopeside Location • Hot Tub • One Bedroom Apartments • Fully Furnished • Caretaker located on Henry Road • Underground Parking • Front Desk Service • Apartments are Furnished • Propane Fireplaces • Underground Parking • Drive To Access • Ski Storage Room off Lobby • Propane Fireplaces Creekside House • Convenient Location to Amenities 102 2 Bedroom Lock-off facing Features Include: • Mountain / Strathcona Park Views Strathcona Park $225,900 • Self-contained Kitchens Rarely do suites in Creekside House 207 $219,900 • Slopeside Location • Ski Storage Lockers off Lobby hit the open market. One owner, 111 3 Bedroom facing Strath. Park $199,900 2 Bedroom facing ski runs 313 • Fully Furnished, 6 appliances • Breathtaking Mountain Views immaculately maintained 3 bedroom 208 3 Bedroom facing Strath. Park $199,900 2 Bedroom Lock-off facing Strathcona Park $242,000 • Rainscreen Technology • Convenient Location to suite available. Quality plus building and ski runs 409 • Live-in Caretaker Ski Lifts and Strathcona built by the same builder of Raven 209 4 Bedroom facing Strath. Park $314,900 Top floor, 2 Bedroom Lock-off facing ski runs $269,900 • Underbuilding Parking Provincial Park. Lodge. Creekside is located immedi- 403 Large 3 Bedroom facing ski runs $229,900 101 Facing the ski runs $149,900 ately adjacent to the loading area of • Common Hot Tub 506 3 Bedroom Penthouse facing • 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom 104 Facing Strathcona Park $139,900 the Green Chair so is about as ski in Strathcona Park and ski runs $264,900 and out friendly as you can get. Easy some with Lock-offs 201 Corner suite facing ski runs $149,900 access to Nordic and Strathcona Park. 102 2 Bdrm 882 Sq Ft Viewside $255,900 204 Facing Strathcona Park $169,900 303 Top Floor, 2 bedroom 303 $164,900 105 2 Bdrm 893 Sq Ft Slopeside $225,900 Facing the ski runs facing the ski runs $349,900 304 Facing Strathcona Park $167,900 106 884 Sq Ft $225,900 305 Top Floor, 3 bedroom 2 Bdrm Slopeside $ 307 Facing the ski runs 164,900 facing the ski runs $399,900 201 2 Bdrm 884 Sq Ft Viewside $219,900 Vaulted Ceilings 202 2 Bdrm 879 Sq Ft Viewside $269,900 784 Washington Way West Coast designer townhome 203 2 Bdrm 1012 Sq Ft Viewside $379,900 located close to the Alpine Lodge of Mount Washington. Offering 3 205 2 Bdrm 891 Sq Ft Slopeside $259,900 Closest to Alpine Lodge! bedrooms, two bathrooms and 206 2 Bdrm 882 Sq Ft Slopeside $239,900 3 bedroom townhome in tip top sauna. Vaulted ceilings in the liv- ing room and gourmet kitchen 208 1 Bdrm 629 Sq Ft Slopeside $189,900 shape! Ski in and Out from this two Lots for Sale! level home. 3 bedrooms, two bath- with corian countertops. Ample 210 2 Bdrm 891 Sq Ft Slopeside $229,900 storage and easy access round out Building sites available at Beaufort rooms and plenty of storage. Bright this great package. Mount 214 2 Bdrm 899 Sq Ft Viewside $269,900 Heights. ACT FAST on these! sunny exposure and a location hard Washington offers incredible Lot #3 (No GST) $129,900 to beat. $249,000 303 3 Bdrm 1012 Sq Ft Viewside $374,900 snow, and affordable real estate Lot #9 $119,000 3 Choices... prices. $289,900 310 2 Bdrm 882 Sq Ft Slopeside $259,900 Tahsis, BC Lot #25 $105,000 A Bright Buy! Lot #27 $99,900 Very unique and bright corner Forbidden Plateau BLUEBERRY HILL Lot #30 $115,000 suite in Snowbird. 3 bedroom townhome with loads of natural CONDOMINIUMS light and extra windows. Very ON MT. WASHINGTON quiet location in the building and Features Include: easy access to parking and skiing. 2 bathrooms, sauna, electric fire- • Elevator Access place, open living area. $234,900 • Spectacular Vaiews of Strathcona Park and the Ski Runs Front Corner Views Commercially Zoned Front corner townhome with Ocean View! • Above & Underground Parking Tahsis ocean view home with beautiful Property with a View! south west views. 3 bedrooms and • Propane Fireplaces inlet and garden views from this 3 Commercial zoning allows for 2 bathrooms on 3 levels. Open liv- • Furnished units ready to go bedroom, 2 bath executive style multiple uses. Chalets, restau- ing area with propane fireplace. • Ski Storage Room off the Lobby home in the up and coming resort rants, cabins, etc. Fabulous 180 Sauna upstairs to sooth the tired with separate lockers for renters town of Tahsis. The 2nd largest lot degree views of Vancouver Island, Close to Alpine Lodge! muscles. Great location and easy (1062 sq ft) in Tahsis' most desirable Georgia Strait and the mainland 108 3 Bdrm, views of ski runs $219,900 Spacious, well-kept townhome with- access to all amenities. $274,900 neighborhood with tiered gardens, mountains. Build your dream in a few minutes stroll of the Alpine mountain retreat next door to 111 3 Brdm, views of ski runs $299,900 South Facing rock walkways, 2nd cedar deck over- Lodge. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and Townhome looking ravine, own driveway. Large Strathcona Park. Hike in the sum- sauna. The inside is well cared for 208 3 Bdrm,SOLD! view of ski runs $274,900 with easy access to parking and gourmet kitchen with all appliances. mer and ski in the winter. Year with a huge space in the lower floor skiing. Basement undeveloped for This is a turnkey recreational home round recreation, only a 30 214 2 Bdrm, view of Strath. Park $259,900 for sleeping or recreating. Enjoy the additional usage. 3 bedrooms and complete with ALL furnishings. minute drive to downtown outside patio, taking in the sunsets 2 bathrooms. Propane fireplace for Tastefully furnished and well main- Courtenay on a well maintained 302 Penthouse (1600 sq. ft.) $425,000 and mountain views. Ski-in and out the cool winter nights. Quiet loca- tained, this comfortable home is a road. Hydro available at the lot access to the slopes. Fantastic loca- tion and great building! $274,900 unique Tahsis' property. $289,000 line. $349,900 tion and great value. $249,900

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 2009

Perched on a Ridge! 3 bedroom executive townhome with stunning In a word... Stunning! Parkview Place End Unit! spectacular views of Strathcona Park. The Master Located on the upper side of Fosters Place on Mount Washington is this STUN- suite encompasses the entire top floor and the NING mountain chalet. 4+ bedrooms and a HUGE living area! This mountain Ski in and Out! End unit located directly across from loading Living room is vaulted almost up the roof of the home boasts a beautifully appointed interior finished to the highest of stan- area of the Hawk & Green chairlifts is Parkview Place. This 4-5 entire building. Common area includes, hot tub dards. Ski in and out access and close to Strathcona Park for nordic skiing in bedroom mountain home offers easy access to Mt. Washington on it's own private deck and sauna. What more to winter and summer hiking. Golf courses, beaches, international airport all just & Strathcona Park. Built to exacting standards with same say than "WOW!" $499,900 30 minutes away. $599,900 builder as Raven Lodge, this is a must see on your list.There is a double car garage and a large storage area on the basement level with 3 piece bathroom, laundry and sauna. Second entry on the main level that enters into a massive common living area. The kitchen, dining room and living room are open concept with a Rock Faced Ocean powder room close by. Views of Strathcona Park fill the dining and living room windows. Upstairs, 4 bedrooms, 2 full bath- Fireplaces! View! rooms and laundry round out the package. $399,900 Lovingly main- You can see the tained chalet on ocean from this Fosters Place with 3 chalet located in New Log bedrooms in the the Alpine Village Cabin! main area and a of Mount separate 2 bedroom Washington. On 3 Log home to be build suite down and an levels, the lower at Beaufort Heights unfinished base- level is a self con- Price includes finish- ment too. Each tained suite whilst ing to lock up stage. suite features a the upper 2 floors Great location as one rock-faced fireplace have spacious of the closest lots to and is totally fin- rooms and an open plan. Sauna on the main floor with huge liv- the lifts. Buy at this ished. The upper suite can accommodate 12 people and the ing area. Close to parking and loads of morning sun! stage and put in lower level 7. Other features include 2 decks, sauna and stor- $485,000 more bedrooms etc. Easy access to skiing and Strathcona Park age. Price includes website. $474,900 is right across the street. Lease expires in 2178 so loads of life in this one.$425,000

A sizzling eight ounce striploin and a Comox Valley Surgenor beer for only $25 means its the official start of the weekend on the patio at the Old House Restaurant!

1760 Riverside Lane in Courtenay 250-338-5406 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 31

Brand New! Over 80% Sold!

1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms from $189,900 • Fully furnished • Rain Screen Technology • Slopeside access 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. $599,900

2700 Square Feet of Luxury! Builder’s Own Home! Never before has a home of this style and quality been available Located in Nordic Heights adjacent to Strathcona Park! Interior on the Mount Washington market. Over 2,700 square feet with finished with loads of wood and windows to take advantage of 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. No expense has been spared light and to create a cozy warm feel. Easy access to ski slopes from the silestone quartz kitchen, hardwood floors, solid cedar just out the back. Where else can you purchase a gorgeous beams, log styled exterior to the open hearth style gas fireplace. home in an alpine setting! Three large bedrooms, open living All rooms are open and spacious. Fosters Place is Mount area, large sauna, loads of storage & inviting architecture. Enjoy Washington’s only drive-in, ski-out location. If you have been "The Strathcona Mountain House". $599,900 looking for the “something special”, this is the one. $799,900

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

World class spa... situated on the ocean’s edge, offering spa therapies Casual fine dining featuring fresh local ingredients including seafood and focusing on the rich ingredients of the sea and interpreted to reflect organic vegetables from Comox Valley farmers, complimented by fresh herbs our unique West Coast environment. and vegetables from our own gardens. Warm Hospitality. Exceptional Service. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2009 32

out or committed to the restaurants, which is way ahead of where we were last year,” Vandermolen said. Beaufort will release a Grigio this year as well as Panacea, a blended white wine. They will have a second release of their Black port, which has been soaking in Their mead comes in several varieties, oak barrels for an additional seven from Lavender Cranberry and Cranberry months. Mead to Wild Harvest, Green Tea Elixir This will be Beaufort Winery’s first Alpenglow, Black and Olde Meade. Their yield year from their estate grapes, too. mead is available from Campbell River Vandermolen expects to produce four to south to Victoria on the Island and in five tonnes off his vineyard this year, North Vancouver. which is about one-quarter of their max- Over at Shelter Point Distillery, Jay imum production. Oddleifson and his partners are brew- The winery is open until July 4 on ing up dreams of single malt whisky. Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 5 Savour the Tastes of the p.m., then open Fridays through Sundays The distillery, located on the former from July 17 to Sept. 6. There are also UBC Farms site on Highway 19A near special events. Black Creek, is still in the pre-production Comox Valley this Summer stage. Hornby Island is known for both its famous Eating local is a big deal in the Comox Valley. So is drinking local. The distilling material has been and eclectic inhabitants as well as its white And there’s plenty of selection for both. ordered from Forsyth in Scotland, but sand beaches. And with the opening of “we still have to get confirmation when Surgenor Brewing in Comox is Everson. “All the people we’ve dealt with Middle Mountain Mead and Carbrea we’re slotted into the production sched- the latest brewery on the scene. so far have been happy people.” Vineyard and Winery, it’s also becoming ule,”Oddleifson said. known as a hotbed of locally-made wine. Surgenor did their first brew on Feb. Surgenor offers two brews: their signa- The idea for the distillery germinated 11 this year, and now have about 90,000 ture Red House Ale, a smooth ale from Stephen Bishop from the Sea Breeze in 2006. The crew has done some trials bottles to fill in the coming months, northern Ireland; and Steam Donkey Lodge operates Carbrea along with his growing barley and “we know we will Public Relations Manager Lee Everson Lager, which hearkens back to the wife Suzie. have no problem growing an excellent Comox Valley’s logging history. said. They made their first planting in 2002 crop.” Surgenor’s beer is available in local The brewery is the brainchild of Bob in their four-acre vineyard. Carbrea car- Clean air, clean water and the wind restaurants as well as the Alibi Room in Surgenor, a former electrician. “About 10 ries both red and white varieties, as well coming off the nearby ocean combine to Vancouver and Shelter Restaurant in years ago he started to see a decline in the as a Wild Blackberry Wine. create fertile conditions. “That’s really industrial contracting market. He was Tofino. The brewery has a retail store for what we’ve got going for us, is purity,” he off-sales, too. Middle Mountain Mead is an artisan said. starting to have to go farther away to get honey winery producing mead - made Beaufort Winery opened last year on If the equipment arrives in a timely work,” Everson explained. Then Field from honey and water and flavoured Pickering Road in the Comox Valley and manner, Oddleifson said Shelter Point Sawmills closed and Elk Falls looked to with spices, teas and botanical ele- be going the same way. They were inte- has been a success since. could have its first distillation later this ments. year. Shelter Point will create a cream ale gral to his livelihood. “We sold out of everything we pro- Mead was the only wine available in and a single batch of rye malt whisky. Four years ago he bought a piece of duced,” said Jeff Vandermolen, who owns northern Europe until grape wines In time, Oddleifson foresees working property on Shamrock Place in Comox the winery with his wife Susan. became available about 6,000 years ago, with other brewing companies to create with an eye to getting into the beer busi- This year they’re starting with 400 according to Middle Mountain Mead’s unique local products. He talked about ness. He created his business plan and more customers than they had last year, website. using oak barrels that Beaufort Winery broke ground on the brewery in July so expect to sell out quickly, despite “We found the history of mead so fas- uses for its Black port to create a port fin- 2008. releasing 1,600 cases of wine this year cinating and enriching that we decided ish to Shelter Point’s whisky. The farm “He was thinking, he liked beer and he (last year they released 1,200). we should develop an artisan honey win- could also look at growing rye for knew a lot of people who liked beer and Beaufort Winery’s wines are also avail- ery and see if we couldn’t help along the Surgenor Brewing, should there be a thought, why not?” able in many Comox Valley Restaurants. global renaissance of mead,” say Helen need. The possibilities are endless, he It’s a fun business to be in, said “We’re probably 30 or 40 per cent sold Grond and Steve McGrath. said.