Why spend the colder months far from home, when winter wonders are as close as Valemount, B.C.?
The Rockies are nothing short of majestic all year long, but they’re especially magical when they sparkle in autumn gold and transition into the imposing snowy peaks of wintertime that make them famous the world over. It’s a privilege to have them so close to home.
The charming village of Valemount, B.C., tucked between the Monashee, Cariboo, and Rocky Mountains, is a renowned spot for snowmobiling — with good reason — but that’s far from the only thing to occupy active retirees during the fall and winter.
Soft adventures for all ages
For adventurers, the possibilities are endless — and you don’t have to be a hardcore adrenaline junkie to get in on the action. There are snowmobile routes that take you over the gorgeous terrain for mountain views you won’t get anywhere else. Backcountry lodges are dotted throughout the region, making a rest stop a little more comfortable.
Strap on some cross-country skis, snowshoes, or microspikes to connect with the land over paths and groomed trails crisscrossing the many parks and natural areas surrounding Valemount. Head out on the Cranberry Marsh Trail, Swift Creek Trail, Berg Lake Trail to Kinney Lake, or Little Lost Lake Trail to take in breathtaking views of the mountains, frozen waterfalls, and snow-covered trees.
Taking things up a notch
The charming community is a great place to try something new this winter. Have you been dog-sledding, heli-sightseeing, or cat skiing? Maybe this is the year!
Tuck in behind a team of dogs for a sledding excursion along a 100-year-old trapline. You can opt for the hour-long introduction or go all in on an overnight adventure. Prefer to see the sights from above? Helicopter tours operate year-round, with the option to up the adventure quotient by making it a heli-skiing or heli-snowshoeing experience. For something different, climb into the warm cabin of a snowcat and get well off the beaten path to find the finest powder to ski. Tours can be customized for any level of skier or rider. If you’d rather stay in the cab and make it a sight-seeing tour, that can be arranged too.
Comfortable long stays and quick getaways
You can find a range of accommodations in Valemount — you might be surprised by all the variety in a village of just over 1,000 residents. Based on how long you want to stay, one of the traditional hotels or motels may suit best, but you can also book lodgings at a bed and breakfast, lodge, or secluded cabin in the woods.
Some of the properties are suitable for larger groups, so if you have a multigenerational family that wants a late fall getaway or a group of friends looking for a snow-filled adventure, you’ll find a comfortable stay. Of course, there are cozy spots for couples and solo travellers too.
This year, snowbirds looking for a made-in-Canadian vacation should look to the friendly mountain charms of Valemount.
Visit Valemount, B.C., and explore all its seasons. To learn more about Valemount and start planning your snowbird itinerary, visit visitvalemount.ca.
