No matter where you’re from, I’m sure you’ve heard whispers of it in your local bike shop while grabbing a coffee or a pint. Spanning across two local mountains, through one small valley, and with two forest service roads for access, it’s certainly a sight to behold: the Valemount Bike Park.

Valemount offers exceptional variety with its pristine flow trails, a unique jump line, gorgeous rock work, challenging wooden features, and the odd technical hand built trail. Guaranteed, you will be leaving saying, “I wish I had more time.”

Crossing the tracks and heading up 5 mile road will bring you to the staging area for the downhill park. At main staging you will find ample parking, a small kids practice area, and access to the main climbing trail on this side of the mountain named “CBT’s Munday Grind.” Its name references the Columbia Basin Trust who is a major funder in the VBP and Phyllis B Munday who was the first woman to climb Mount Robson. The climbing trail is a great way to kick up your cardio. At the end of your effort you’ll be faced with your next challenge: which trail to choose after your hard work.

If self-shuttling, you have the choice to do drop-offs at lower, mid, or top of the mountain. Mid and lower mountain have various different options for green, blue, and black trails.

In the warm summer months, one might want to travel all the way up to the end of the road where you will find amazing valley views and a variety of blue and black trails like “High Roller”. Many a time, I’ve heard visitor’s refer to High Roller as the “A-Line of the North”. If jumping isn’t your style, there is a blue trail named “the Craig” that offers another rad way down from the top of the mountain. There is currently no green route from upper mountain.

Peak Shuttles, the local shuttle rig has recently announced that they will be offering shuttles Friday-Sunday and holidays. The shuttle is weather-dependant and it’s best to follow their Facebook page for the most recent updates. Punch passes go for $20 which will get you to the top of the mountain twice, or 4 mid mountain drops. Members of the bike park get an extra 1/2 lap! You can become a member on www.ridevalemount.com

Another perk about riding weekends is the iced coffees and scones that you can find from the VALE coffee food truck that parks at staging Friday-Sunday. I can’t think of a better way to cool down or perk up than a freshly roasted coffee or homemade treat.

For those who like to cross-country pedal, the community has recently opened up a whole new section of mountain on the other side of Swift Creek. Access from town by peddling along Swift Creek (opposite side of the creek to the Golden Year’s Senior lodge) or by driving down the end of Main Street to what the locals call “Von Zuben” and then hanging a right at Swift Mountain Road. Since this area has newly been opened, signage is still in the works. TrailForks offers the most accurate descriptions of trails. The cross country area is accessible from the downhill parking lot via the “Northern Traverse” bike trail.

The VBP has some great family-friendly downhill trails for the kiddos like “Trapline”, “Truck Yeah”, “Bacon” and the soon to open “Tyrannosaurus Rock”. Hand brakes and riding experience are recommended. “The Green Mile” on the Swift Mountain side of the valley (#45 on the bike park map) is a perfect in/out for young new riders.

If you’re in need of gear, a repair, or a rental, “District Bicycle Company” on 5th Avenue and “Bikes and Bites” on Main St. are the two local bike shops. For a unique ride, rent one of the 2 or 4 person pedal trolleys from District and tour the town.

For the most-up-to-date information, follow the “Valemount Bike Park” on Facebook. Whatever your fancy, I’m sure you won’t walk away from here disappointed.

For approximately three weeks a year, driven by instinct, Chinook and Sockeye salmon travel through different water passages in our community. By the time they reach the Swift Creek and Fraser River, where you can view them locally, they have already travelled over 1,300 kilometres.

Valemount offers three different locations to view the Salmon spawning. The most convenient place, which also allows you to see the salmon in great detail, is the viewing platform at George Hicks Regional Park. There is a beautiful little trail that takes you down to the creek right from the Visitor Information Centre. Alternatively, you can also drive down to the lower parking pad. Take a minute to read the billboards that share interesting information about the salmon and their lifecycles, as well as some local history. The viewing platform and bridge offer several different chances to spot the salmon. Since they have already turned a deep reddish brown, they often blend in to the rock below but it doesn’t take a trained eye to catch a fin or a splash.

One of the most unique places to watch the salmon is Rearguard Falls, approximately 25 km northeast of Valemount. This section of the river is nearing the end of their journey and only the strongest of salmon will make it up the falls. Spotting the salmon here can be a little tricky. If you look in the protected pools lining the falls, you will catch a silhouette or two as the salmon conserve their energy for their next big attempt. The deep red of their bodies will be in stark contrast to the teal-blue water. During our most recent visit to Rearguard falls, my daughter and I patiently waited for the salmon to jump up the falls. After a few moments of searching, we found several resting in the pools. We made harmless bets about which one was going to attempt the perilous leap first and watched for brief glimpses of fins amid the thick white rapids. Alas, watching the same spot for 20 minutes can only entertain a 9-year-old for so long. Content with our salmon-spotting abilities, we decided to pack up and try our luck another day.

The final place where you can see the salmon is the Tete Jaune Spawning Grounds. This lesser-known location is approximately 20 km outside of the town of Valemount. Head north from Valemount, turning left onto Blackman Road. Follow Blackman Road until you reach Old Tete Jaune Cache Road. Once you cross the tracks you will see the sign on the right. This section along the McLennan River receives less tourist traffic, so you may have a chance to see wildlife. Quite often, if you follow the old beaten path down to where the McLennan meets the Fraser, you can catch hungry eagles soaring above the waters.

George Hicks Regional Park is accessible to people with mobility restrictions. The Tete Jaune Spawning Grounds is a periodically maintained trail, and not mobility-friendly. The walk down to Rearguard Falls is approximately 30 minutes return, with some minor elevation loss to the waterfall. The wooden viewing platform at the waterfall is well-fenced and comprised of several different levels, with staircases in between. Please adhere to local regulations about viewing etiquette.

Whether it’s a smoking hot day or the clouds are covering the sky, rafting is a fun and exciting way to experience the Robson Valley. Mount Robson Whitewater Rafting Co. (Robson) and Stellar Descents Whitewater Rafting (Stellar) offer a variety of trips from gentle floats suitable for the whole family, to Class 4 whitewater trips.

For visitors and locals who would like to enjoy a more laid-back pace, Robson offers a gentle float with amazing views of the famous Mount Robson. Further down the Fraser, Stellar gentle float delves into the rich history of the area. Take comfort in knowing that you are safe in the hands of your skilled guide. Since there is no chance of getting wet (much unlike whitewater rafting), you can wear whatever clothing is comfortable under your PFD (life jacket).

On the opposite side of the spectrum, there are multiple Whitewater options. Stellar and Robson run a section of the Fraser that will certainly pump some adrenaline through you. When whitewater rafting, it is almost impossible to stay completely dry. Thankfully, the rafting companies supply you with wetsuits to keep you nice and warm, helmets and PFD to keep you safe. A bathing suit is my recommended piece of clothing to wear under a wetsuit. If you’ve never put a wetsuit on, they are a little tricky to squeeze into at first, but once suited up, they are really quite comfortable.

While waiting at the launchpad and listening to the safety chat, my heartbeat always seems to pick up. Excitement and nervousness wash over me. Then, before you know it, we are in the water paddling downriver. All my nervousness is replaced with exhilaration as we careen over rapids, the cool crisp water occasionally splashing up over me. The only sounds I am tuned into are the commands from our trusted guide, the roar of the mighty river, and the happy screams and giggles from my boatmates.

The Robson Valley is a mecca for whitewater rafting, and I can’t wait until my daughter meets the requirements to go on the whitewater trips. While the float trips are a whole family affair, whitewater rafting has some requirements that must be met. Generally, a person must be 90 lbs or more, over 10 years old, and reasonably fit to participate in a whitewater trip.

If the Fraser River doesn’t sound like a wild enough ride for you, Stellar offers two more rafting trips spanning two different rivers. The Dore and the Beaver are two different whitewater trips with Class 4 rapids that will surely take your breath away. Subject to water levels, these seasonal rivers are a thrill seeker’s dream come true.

A trip to Valemount is the perfect relaxing escape. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, unparalleled mountain views, and unlimited outdoor activities, this is the place.

Bring your clubs and start the day with a relaxing round of golf at Valemount Pines. Take a gentle float trip down the Fraser River with Stellar Descents or Mount Robson Whitewater Rafting Co. If adrenaline is more your style, opt for a whitewater raft trip (be prepared to get wet!) or catch some bike laps at the Valemount Bike Park.

History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Valemount Museum. The multiple interactive displays offer insight into the history of the area.

Valemount offers a unique ATV experience. From waterfall-filled forestry roads, to fishing adventures, to scenic panoramic views; Valemount has many natural wonders to offer while responsibly enjoying our Valley on an ATV. If you don’t have your own ATV, you can rent one from Alpine Country Rentals.

The world-renowned Mount Robson Park is a must see for beautiful mountain views and hiking experiences. Check out the Mount Robson General Store for a souvenir or the Mt. Robson Café for a bite.

For those of you who completely want to escape the crowds, Valemount has a variety of unique hiking trails and beautiful picnic sites. The picnic table at the Swift Creek lookout is a local favourite due to its close proximity to town. The salmon spawning grounds by the Valemount Visitor Information Centre offer another easily accessible picnic area.

Adventurous visitors can follow the Canoe River Forest road down to Kinbasket Lake. Unobstructed views of the lake and mountain ranges will greet you and though only a short drive from town, you will feel as if you were transported to a completely different place.

Make sure to bring your water transportation of choice. Kinbasket Lake is great for canoeing or paddle boarding, and the large lake is also perfect for motorized boats.

After a day full of activities, you’ll be happy to know that for a small town, Valemount has a fantastic culinary selection. Three Ranges Brewing has a patio to enjoy the sunshine. Glacier Fire Pizza has delicious bites with several types of BC beers on tap. The Lucky House restaurant will satisfy your Chinese food cravings. McLennan Truck Stop is dishing up home-cooked breakfast lunch and dinners, and Diamond H Donairs is busy slinging delicious donairs and fries. Starting in August, the Caribou Grill will be serving meals again.

For a more intimate dining experience, you can visit the Summit Grill and its beautiful patio backing onto a wooded area. Morning and lunch treats can be picked up at either the Swiss Bakery or the Gathering Tree. And for those who need their Timmies fix or a quick sub, there is also a Subway and Tim Hortons.

All hotels, motels, cabins, vacation rentals and Airbnbs are back running, as well as the local campgrounds. So with all of these wonderful options, what are you waiting for? Come out and enjoy your adventure and let the mountains move you!

There’s nothing quite like star-filled evenings followed by waking to the sounds of birds happily chirping away. Then stepping outside to feel that crisp morning air sweep past. To escape the sounds and stresses of day to day life and be brought back to a simple lifestyle.

Days are spent lazing by the creek watching butterflies and bees flit from flower to flower. Rays of light peeking through the trees and grazing the forest floor. Meadows bathing in the warm afternoon sun. The sounds of gentle streams rolling past and calming my soul.

Collecting water is reminiscent of a time before modern infrastructure was created. Kids filling cups and pots and bringing them back to use for cooking and cleaning.

The surrounding mountain tops cradle me, allowing my mind to unravel and momentarily elevating myself from the world below. Things that seemed of utmost importance drift away with the soft breeze and are replaced with simple joys. What once seemed like impossible peaks are now achievable strolls.

Guided by the light trodden paths and well-worn ribbons to protect the alpine, there are so many hiking options from our temporary home. A summit here, a ridge walk there.

Back at the cabin a plethora of card games await our return. Meals are hearty and a highly anticipated part of the day. Tiny pieces of paper await our drawings, cups are overflowing, and the cabin’s fireplace ensures we are warm and cozy.

As darkness sets in our eyes grow heavier with each passing hour and I find myself tucking in for a long, well-deserved sleep. With morning comes the promise of coffee and a brand new day.

Spring is a fantastic time to research summer/winter cabin trips. Cabins offer the perfect balance between camping and comfort, and Valemount has many within its vicinity. Some are helicopter access only, others are hike-in. There are private lodges such as Mallard Mountain Lodge, Dave Henry Lodge, Swift Mountain Lodge, and Hermit Thrush.

Please analyze the length and elevation gain of each hike to ensure it is the right fit for you. Work up to longer distance hikes with daily walks. Some cabins are fully catered, and some are self-guided. If visiting a self-guided cabin- basic backcountry skills are recommended (bear safety, fire starting skills, basic first aid, etc). There are some great resources on the internet about how to pack for a backcountry trip.

I am sure the staff at Coldfire Creek Dogsledding saw the flicker of surprise on my face when they told me I would be driving the dogsled. We wandered around the sled teams, petting as many of the dogs as we could get our hands on, familiarizing ourselves with their personalities. They barked excitedly and brushed their bodies against us, receptive to our attention.

After a comprehensive lesson on how to drive the teams, the girls climbed into the sled. I wrapped them up in the cozy blankets provided and their faces beamed with excitement and awe. I wandered to the back of the sled full of excitement and nervousness and prepared myself for the trail.

We were told that the dogs want to go- that they love to run. This was an understatement. As soon as they heard me shout the “hike” command they were off. We were barreling down the path with only the sound of the drag of the sled and the excited “yips” of the dogs. The girls were laughing at the snow being kicked up from the pups and I started to grow comfortable with handling the sled.

Once I had confidence in my driving skills, I pulled out my camera. Juggling a camera and a dogsled at the same time is easier than you would think, but still a complicated task. We followed the creek deeper into the valley, chasing the hint of sunlight peaking through the clouds. Even though we were in the depths of winter, the wind was warm against my exposed skin.

As we approached a long straight stretch we stopped to switch drivers. The girls were thrilled when they were offered the chance to drive. Gaia stepped onto the back with me and I prepared myself to pay full attention. Contrary to my assumption, she was a natural and I was able to concentrate on taking photos while she led the team. She kept exclaiming to her friend that it was easy and “so fun!”

As the girls switched out and allowed each other to drive I saw the gleam of pride spread across their face. We turned a final corner and reached the lunch spot. Nestled in a protected tree space with stunning views of the mountains and a beautiful custom fireplace, it was the perfect place for lunch. The girls wouldn’t stop raving about the baked goods and enjoyed some cider while we waited for the main course.

After lunch, we all packed back onto the sleds and raced back to the staging area. The views on the way back were just as exceptional as on the way in. Once we were at staging we thanked our dog team and guides then hopped into my truck to excitedly talk about our fun day.

Coldfire Creek Dogsledding offers a variety of tour lengths. For those pressed for time there is the “60 minute musher”, for those who want the full experience, there is the “Moonshiners of Whiskey Creek” or “Ghost of Coldfire Creek”. We luckily were invited to tag along for the Moonshiners tour. The valley that Coldfire Creek Dogsledding operates from is just northwest of Valemount. They also have a shuttle that brings customers from Jasper. More information can be found on their website, www.dogsleddinginjasper.com.