Cycling the Kettle Valley Railway
News from the Kettle Valley Railway
January - December 2002
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December 18, 2002
Sonya Konig
www.thewineloversclub.com
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
Hi Dan,
I've been speaking with Don Foxgord from Tourism BC and he recommended I get
in contact with you.
My name is Sonya Konig and I'm responsible for a new initiative at Tinhorn Creek
Vineyards (in Oliver, the Wine Capital of Canada) called the WineLovers' Club.
The WineLovers' Club is the first-of-its-kind in the Okanagan whereby we offer
an opportunity to "Live the Total Wine Experience". We have created a sanctuary
of relaxation in our luxury guest-suites nested among the vines on Tinhorn Creeks
160 acre estate. We take guests on an educational wine journey which includes
4 progressive workshops - vineyard & cellar experience led by our winemaker;
a tutored wine tasting; wine & food workshop; and a visit to neighbouring South
Okanagan wineries. We customize each guests itinerary based on their level of
interest thereby including activities like biking, hiking, golf, art-in-the-vineyard,
spa treatment, snowshoeing, ice-fishing to name a few.
We started this program this year and its proving to be very successful. The
biking continues to be a popular request, our guests use the Kettle Valley for
most of their rides - either Vasseau Lake to Osoyoos or Naramata bench. I would
very much like to have an opportunity to link to your web-site if possible,
also with the possibility of being published as a possible destination in future
book publications. Please let me know what is involved.
For more information, please visit our web-site:www.thewineloversclub.com
or I can be contacted directly on 1-888-484 6467 ext 204.
On a separate note, we've just established a new Trails committee in Oliver
which I'm part of. The goal is to increase market awareness and signage of new
and old biking/hiking trails. If you have any suggestions on the KVR trail in
the Oliver area I would be very interested in hearing them and passing them
on to the rest of the committee. Our next meeting is January 7th.
Thank you.
Regards,
Sonya Konig
Director, WineLovers' Club Phone: 1-888-484 6467 ext 204
December 16, 2002
Koen Smits and Hananja Hamelink hananjakoen@hotmail.com
From Vancouver to the KVR and back
Hi, We would like to cycle the KVR next summer (2003). We come from the Netherlands.
We will take our bicycles by plane to Vancouver. Due to the restricted time
we have (about 4 weeks) we would like know if there is a possibility to take
our bicycles on a bus from Vancouver to a place near Midway or Castlegar from
where we would to like to start our tour. Do you also have suggestions for a
nice route to cycle back to Vancouver after we have done the KVR? Thank you
very much.
December 16, 2002
Jack Godwin kvbinfo@kvbrakemen.com
The Kettle
Valley Brakemen http://www.kvbrakemen.com/
Thanks for the wonderful mention of The Kettle Valley Brakemen in the third
edition of your book. I've already had a request for a concert next summer by
a small group of cyclists.
The Brakemen are shut down for the winter. Next spring we start our season with
a play that I wrote last year entitled "Kettle Valley Memories". It tells the
history of the railway and--naturally--includes 12 Brakemen songs. This show
will be put on in Penticton: March 20-22 and in Peachland Mar. 28 and 29th.
November 28, 2002
Nancy info@mccullochlakeresort.com
McCulloch Lake Resort
Just a quick note to let you know that we finally have internet and email access.
Our website is:
www.mccullochlakeresort.com
email is:
info@mccullochlakeresort.com
We would greatly appreciate this information updated on your website.
Nancy
-- McCulloch Lake Resort
Phone & Fax: 250-862-7834
Email: info@mccullochlakeresort.com
On The Web: http://mccullochlakeresort.com
October 28, 2002
Neil Anderson
KVR autumn photos
Hi there,
Just wanted to share some autumn sights from the KVR rail trail between Tulameen,
Coalmont, and Princeton. Sharon and I were able to get out last weekend for
a stunning bike ride along the emerald-green Tulameen River.
For full-size photos:
Cheers, Neil
October 20, 2002
Michael Pahl & Jeanne-Marie Maher jm3xp@msn.com
Midway to Grand Forks - loop trip
We recently (mid-September) took the trip from
Midway to Grand Forks along the C&W. Our recommendation would be
to do this only on a true mountain bike, with full knobby tires, and super
low tire pressure. The trail condition was abysmal - lots of sand and
rock. We expected it to take 5 hours, but ended up taking well over
8 because of the conditions. It was a very long, very difficult day.
Uphill from Midway to Eholt was the worst. After Eholt, the next 10km
or so were fine (breathtaking views!), but about half way down to Grand Forks
the trail again turned to much sand and the riding was extremely difficult.
Be forewarned.
For the return (Grand Forks back to Midway) we
heard about a much better option and decided to document it. We cycled
the paved roads back down through the USA via Curlew. The scenery is
great, the traffic is almost non-existent, it's basically flat and the border
crossings are a non-issue. There are a number of nice parks at which
to stop all along the river. Be sure to get your lunch in Curlew (either
from the general store or the coffee shop) it's an experience! Here
are detailed directions:
km Grand Forks to
Midway (via Curlew, WA)
0.0 Grand Forks - head
west on Hwy 3
7.0 LEFT onto Hwy 41 (becomes
Hwy 21 in USA)
8.4 Customs/border crossing
(open 0800-2359)
12.6 Lone Ranch Park
25.0 Curlew (200m across bridge
to your left); general store and coffee shop
25.6 RIGHT onto Kettle River Rd
37.8 day use park (did not get
the name - Bureau of Land Management?)
40.8 RIGHT to stay on Kettle River
Rd (head toward Customs)
41.2 LEFT after bridge over the
Kettle River (says "Customs Rd" on your right)
42.6 Ranald MacDonald gravesite
48.6 Customs/border crossing (open
0900-1700)
50.8 Midway / Mile 0 Motel / LEFT
onto Hwy 3
51.8 Midway Museum
October 20, 2002
Michael Pahl & Jeanne-Marie Maher jm3xp@msn.com
Midway to Osoyoos - loop trip
On our recent KVR ride from Midway to Osoyoos we
made a loop trip. Rather than taking Hwy 3 and the Anarchist hill back,
we came up with another option. This route follows some of the V V &
E trail in the USA and uses a mix of both paved and gravel roads. It
has a number of advantages over simply taking Hwy 3: much, much, much less
traffic (basically non-existent), very scenic as you get to go through Circle
City, Molson, Chesaw and some lovely canyons/lakes, and gives you an extra
day to enjoy the wonderful Okanagan valley. It unfortunately still involves
a fairly good hill climb (but only about 1/2 as long as the Anarchist hill)
and since the entire route is roughly 100km in length requires an overnight
stay in Molson.
There are two choices for accommodations in Molson,
but be aware that you must plan your meals in advance as there are no options
once you get there. We stayed at the Inn at Molson (509-485-2018,
http://www.theinnatmolson.com/).
A wonderful bed & breakfast right in the historic ghost town of Molson
(lots of great railway memorabilia). Sam and Sharon were lovely hosts
and serve a spectacular dinner by advance reservation. The other option
is Eden Valley Ranch (509-485-4002, http://www.edenvalleyranch.net).
They have self-cook cabins and are a few kilometers outside of Molson, but
easily on an alternate route. As we didn't stay there we cannot say
much about them other than they sounded very nice when we talked to them on
the phone.
Note that all our distances and elevations are
approximate (but should be close) as we had to route find and did this in
a few pieces. Enjoy this part of the trip - we found it just an enjoyable
as anything else along the KVR.
The route:
km Osoyoos to Molson,
WA to Midway (option #1 - uses V V & E)
0.0 Osoyoos - follow Hwy
97 south out of town (elevation 275m)
2.8 Customs/border crossing
(24 hr)
10.5 LEFT onto Chesaw Rd (at the
"76" gas station; follow signs toward Molson as the main road zig
zags)
12.7 intersection - 5% uphill
grade starts here
21.0 LEFT onto Nine Mile Rd (gravel)
- 7.4% (yikes!) uphill grade starts here (but it is short, only 1.5km)
22.5 junction with actual V V
& E grade (and a nice gentle 2% climb from here)
22.7 Circle City
32.5 Sidley, BC
33.3 "1905" rock cut
34.8 lake - road becomes paved
35.8 Sidley Lake
36.6 Molson Lake
38.3 Ye Old Molson - the original
town site
38.7 LEFT onto Mary Ann Creek
Rd (gravel) - 5% uphill grade starts here (for 2.5km)
39.2 Inn at Molson B&B
41.2 summit (elevation 1265m)
- mostly downhill from here to Midway
43.7 LEFT to stay on Mary Ann
Creek Rd (Fields Rd goes straight)
46.1 Ignore China Poland Rd
52.0 LEFT onto Chesaw Rd (paved)
55.4 Chesaw (elevation 900m)
55.6 RIGHT onto Chesaw Rd
57.9 Chesaw Cemetery
59.6 start of 1km steep uphill
- then great ride downhill through a canyon to the lakes
69.2 Beth Lake
70.7 Beaver Lake (elevation 840m)
77.7 LEFT at STOP (onto Toroda
Creek Rd, but no sign) (this is the end of Chesaw Rd)
93.8 RIGHT onto Kettle River Rd
94.3 LEFT first opportunity towards
Customs
94.7 LEFT after bridge over Kettle
River (sign to your right says "Customs Rd")
96.2 Ranald MacDonald gravesite
102.2 Customs/border crossing (open
0900-1700)
104.4 Midway / Mile 0 Motel /
LEFT onto Hwy 3
105.4 KVR Museum (elevation 580m)
There is an alternate route to Molson that goes
via the other accommodation option. It does not go along the V V &
E grade at all and has a longer 5% grade, but is all paved, somewhat shorter
and avoids the one short steep hill just before Circle City. The final
distances along Molson Rd are very rough approximations.
0.0 Osoyoos - follow Hwy
97 south out of town (elevation 275m)
2.8 Customs/border crossing
(24 hr)
7.7 LEFT onto Chesaw Rd
(at the "76" gas station; follow signs toward Molson as the main
road zig zags)
12.7 intersection - 5% uphill
grade starts here
21.0 STRAIGHT past Nine Mile Rd
26.0 LEFT onto Molson Rd - grade
changes to 2.5% uphill
(Note:
continue past Molson Rd approx 1km and make a R onto Dry Gulch Rd
to find
the other lodging option: Eden Valley Ranch)
34.0 RIGHT onto Mary Ann Creek
Rd (gravel) and join up with the route described above. The town of
Molson is just 0.5km ahead.
(Note - you can bypass Molson and save roughly
15km of distance by just staying on Chesaw Rd and joining up with the main
route at the 52km mark).
October 20, 2002
Michael Pahl & Jeanne-Marie Maher jm3xp@msn.com
Carmi/Osoyoos - Trip Report
We made our grand trek along the Kettle Valley
in mid-September and had a great time. Couldn't have done it without
"Cycling the KVR". Here are a few updates to the 3rd edition
of the book, hope you find them useful. We were also able to make a
loop trip out of it and will post directions to get from Osoyoos back to Midway,
and also an alternate route between Midway and Grand Forks.
A few observations on our part:
Paul's rest stop is an absolute "must do".
He is an incredible wealth of knowledge and simply a wonderful person.
Many have found the accommodations/food at McCulloch
Lake Resort to be mediocre. We had the opposite reaction. Our
upstairs chalet was spectacular, and the food and wine were quite good.
We really liked the place.
Chute Lake Resort is very rustic - be prepared.
It got down to freezing that night and we found the rooms very, very uncomfortable
(both the bed and the lack of heat). The place does have a lot of charm,
very friendly owners and they did great with the burgers.
Route updates:
KM 8.7 Bubar Rd
- this is an easy turn off to miss as the gate is behind you and the road
is 50m uphill. Note this is a private road and so not open for public
travel. The route along the railbed looked passable, albeit with some
walking. We managed to run into the owner (drives a large blue semi-truck
for Kokanee and lives at the far end of Bubar) and were able to get permission
to continue. If you do take Bubar Rd, trust it and stay on the road
for the full 5km or so even though it appears to be leading you quite aways
away from the river and railbed. We turned off way too early, at the
first gate in 0.5km or so, and while passable, we ended up biking through
a number of farmer's working fields. The gravel road would have been
easier (but with more hills).
KM 68 Beaverdell
- Tamarack Lodge is closed and no longer open for business. Another
great lodging option is "Highlands Cabins", 250-484-5505.
Note that the Beaverdell Hotel does not serve meals on weekdays after the
end of the "season" (we were there Sept 17th, and Our Place Café
serves only until 7PM. There is also a little bakery for breakfast.
KM 92.4
- there are a number of rock slides in this section
KM 96.4
- major rock slide
KM 160
- the railbed is in poor condition from here to Chute Lake; much sand and
washboard - lower your tire pressure
KM 213.7 Penticton
- we were able to follow the trail to this point, but then got lost in Penticton
(trying to head south to Okanagan Falls). No real advice other than
use the map on pg 83 and do whatever you can to end up on Fairview heading
south out of town. Once you cross Channel Parkway, make a LEFT onto
the paved Jaycees bicycle trail.
(next set of distances are for the Osoyoos Subdivision)
KM 3.4 Skaha
- once the Jaycees bicycle trail ends, make a RIGHT and follow highway 97
for a one or two kilometer detour (sorry didn't get exact measurements).
Go past the RV campground and once the highway starts going uphill, look for
a Paintball facility. Make a LEFT into the Paintball parking lot and
you will find a trail on the north side of the parking lot that goes down
to the water. Follow it all the way down to meet up with the KVR railbed.
KM 8.7
- major sand wash (just after the Banbury Green RV park)
KM 9.8
- another sand wash
October 11, 2002
Léon Lebrun Southwest Region Director, Trails BC southwest@trailsbc.ca
Improvements In The Coldwater/Coquihalla Corridor
Hi Dan, I just had a look at your latest edition of Cycling the KVR at Chapters.
You will be pleased to know that in the last few weeks we have made improvements
in the Coldwater/Coquihalla corridor.
We've used a small machine to improve the trail across the two Juliet slides
and a temporary trail track to the gate in the animal fence to get around the
locked gate.
We are presently looking at ways of improving the trail along the Coldwater
River to Coquihalla Lakes.
We now have our license to operate in the Trans Mountain Pipe Line corridor
in the summit and will officially make that public next spring. We will leave
information at the Information Tourist Bureau in Hope and at the Coquihalla
Lakes Lodge. If there is dangerous work going on in the summit it will be temporarily
closed and signs to that effect will be put up. The 3 km section of the KVR
as we near Portia and gets off the TMPL road is now completely cleaned up and
for the most part is more than a single track trail. The whole section feels
like a park and is sure to become a feature on the Trail. Further to this, by
the end of next week we will have built a trail on the other side of the bridge
crossing Boston Bar Creek paralleling the east side highway to Shylock. This
will make a great connection to the pipeline service road to Carolin Mines.
Soon we will have the permission to travel on the Jessica section of the rail
grade. This means that we will reestablish the rail grade for a couple of km
past the gated area from Carolin Mines Road and will build a cyclable trail
back down and under the Highway in line with Sowaqua Creek. From there we will
be building a trail to a spot where we will require a way to cross the Coquihalla
River. We are looking at the possibility of installing a cable car capable of
carrying a bicycle. This will allow the trail to continue on a service road
to Othello Road.
One day we will look at the possibility of reestablishing much of the rail grade
from Corolin Mines Road over the Ladner Creek rail bridge and over to Shylock.
As you can see, our agreement with Trans Mountain Pipe Line has now made it
possible for us to work in this corridor.
Léon Lebrun Southwest Region Director, Trails BC
For updated information check out;
http://www.trailsbc.ca/southwest_region/coquihalla.asp
Oct 1, 2002
Michael Crombie
Bike/Passenger Service - Naramata to Chute Lake
Website shows an incorrect?no longer valid email address for a Mark Humbke in
Naramata. Does anyone have it before I have to try and reach him by phone. Thanks.
Mike Crombie
Sept. 24, 2002
Brenda Matas
Nooaitch Policy - Nicola, Kamloops & Similkameen Railway
I am responding to your fax to our office dated September 23, 2002. I have reviewed
your request to travel through Nooaitch land on the old CPR railway and must
regretfully decline your request. We have had to make some drastic changes to
those passing through our reserve. My membership have given us Chief & Council,
a clear mandate that no traffic other than local traffic shall pass through
our lands. Several years ago we stopped some cyclists who were taking ornaments
and other objects from our cemetery and we've also had some who stopped by at
an abandoned home and was using a metal detector to look for whatever. Last
Spring we have had extreme flooding that has washed out several areas near the
lower end of our reserve and it is almost impassable. We also have liability
issues with bears and other wildlife in the vicinity of our boundaries. Your
safety would be a major concern for me while you & your guests were on our reserve
lands, I would not want you attacked verbally or physically. I hope that your
experience is a pleasant & memorable one. I would encourage you to bypass our
reserve by following along the highway adjacent to our reserve and I would like
to thank you in advance for communicating your interest. Sincerely, Chief Dewey
Shackelly
Sept 13, 2002
Werner & Elisabeth
Rock Creek to Naramata
Hello Dan and Sandra, we just came back from a four day trip from Rockcreek to
Naramata. Your excellent researched book was a big help. Everything was wonderful.
We stayed in 'Beverdell Hotel' and enjoyed the 'Honey Moon' suite. But after riding
a bake for the whole day, you do not feel like 'honey moon' .... The food in the
'Beverdell Hotel' was excellent! She is a great cook! We enjoyed the whole trip.
The only thing to complain about ... the food at McCulloch Resort is a disaster!
I suggest, that these people make a bigger effort! Thanks for listening. Werner
& Elisabeth
Sept 6, 2002
Wayne Gannon
Portia to Coquihalla Lakes
Well, Dan, I've done it. What a challenge.
The entire trip from Portia to the Lakes on the railbed took 3 days. There
were washouts & cave ins & slides. We traveled up & down &
over & under. Here's the story...
After my e-mail back in late July, when I contacted
you in regard to the old railbed above Iago to the Coquihalla summit, I continued
to try to find someone who would be interested in and willing to take on the
challenge of traveling the old railbed with me. After a few contacts,
I was able to touch base with someone and, even though we each had our
own reasons, we shared the objective of making the journey and traveled together
all the way from Portia right to the Coquihalla Summit.
Before I describe the adventure, there is something
I must say right up front. This is not a journey to be taken by the faint
of heart. Nor is it a simple walk. This was hard work. A challenge
to body, mind, & spirit. It took every ounce of courage and energy
we had to meet the demands of the trail. Do not take this trip lightly.
It is rewarding but you must be fit & you must be willing to challenge your
fears in some points. My climbing partner was experienced in the trail,
having been there before, and an excellent guide. He had good judgment
and excellent skills.
There has been little documentation on actual travel
along the old railbed in the Coquihalla Canyon. The passage of time has
inevitably dimmed much of the detail and taken its toll over the years.
I stood in silence pondering the destination and the goals to be achieved as
we entered the railbed with bicycles over our shoulders, not that you could
ride them but because you didn't want to leave them on the roadside. Just
up the trail they were secured to a tree and for a brief moment I stared at
the impressive route ahead. My exploration was about to begin.
Our journey was spread over 3 days.
Day 1 we started at Portia. We cycled along
pipeline road until we reached the railbed about 1/2 a mile up. Here the
travel was not too difficult because there has been some trail work along railbed.
A path has been cleared around the first abandoned bridge at km 51.5.
Shortly after, we discovered an old concrete drainage system that was used to
divert water from the railbed. A short distance later we left the trail
as that is where the pipeline road travels along the railbed toward Iago.
At Iago, we were able to explore the old foundations and the remains of the
buildings. The travel on the road at this point was fairly easy riding.
Shortly after Iago, we passed over the old frame trestle that was reconstructed
in 1956 and traveled east to Snowshed 15. Next we came to Tunnel 7 which
has been completely reconstructed, reinforced, and PAVED. Continuing east
we passed over the old bailey bridge where the water tunnel comes out of the
mountain. Just past there, we left the road to begin our true adventure.
It was there we had to abandon our bikes and set off on foot onto the virtually
unknown path ahead.
You're no sooner on the railbed and you're confronted
with rockslides and overgrowth. However, we were assisted for a distance
prior to Snowshed 14. Someone has gone up and has done some clearing.
Throughout the journey I discovered that every creek at some time or other has
washed out or become a slide / avalanche area. We
were able to travel, on this day, right through to Slide Creek passing by all
the Snowsheds from 14 to 10. In this area, Snowshed 14 was in the best
shape although it was all laying on the ground. It gave you a good
idea of the structure of the Snowsheds and the demands that the builders
faced. When we reached Slide Creek we found the most amazing site
- concrete pillars that stand 10 stories at its deepest point.
A major washout has occurred here so we had to work our way down to the
creekbed. We returned to the road & that was the end of
Day 1.
Day 2 found us climbing up the other side of Slide
Creek to start our journey east again. We traveled from Snowshed 9 right
through to a major washout & obstacle on the west side of Tunnel 6.
The travel on the railbed was the same as what we had encountered
in the previous section; ie, washouts, slides, and overgrowth.
However, the challenges and demands were more intense so we covered less
ground on this day than we had managed to the day before. The majority
of the snowsheds have disappeared. At Snowshed 5, 430 ft long, you can
still find the concrete retaining wall on the inside of the railbed and the
concrete blocks along the outside that were the base of the snowshed walls.
Much to my amazement when we arrived at Romeo it was completely covered in overgrowth.
However, we were able to find the odd remnant of the old station; ie, a broken
shovel, some bricks, an old metal bedframe, and a small concrete foundation.
After Romeo we passed by what is left of Snowshed 1 and carried on east until
we reached a washout containing the remains of a wood frame trestle.
Here we had to make a challenging descent to the creek bottom and then climb
back up the other side. However, we were then able to carry on until just
before tunnel 6, probably less than a hundred yards distant to us.
We had met our match in washouts. We had to once again descend to
the road and return home. So ended Day 2.
Day 3 saw us starting from the other end of the Section.
We started at Coquihalla Lakes and traveled west passing by Tunnels 1 and 2
on the pipeline road. On the west side of Tunnel 2 we climbed back up
to the railbed, parked our transportation, and again set off on foot.
Our first challenge was met immediately - we had to climb through Tunnel 3,
over the debris from the cave in that was piled up on the Tunnel floor. We
breathed a sigh of relief upon reaching the other end. From there we worked
our way past a small collapsed trestle and went on to Dry Gulch. Yes.
Back down and back up we went. We proceeded from there to Falls Creek
and the Bridal Veil Trestle. Back down and back up we went. We were
able to explore what is left of the trestle, even getting to stand on the piece
that's left at the west side of the creek. Railbed travel continued to
be difficult. We went through Hayden's Cut and over a major slide that
has occurred there. Then westward to Tack Creek. Just before we
reached Tack Creek we came upon the only building still standing in this section
of the railbed, an old hut used by the rail workers for protection from the
elements. There was an old bench inside with a pile of coal still in the
corner. How it's survived when all else has fallen is a mystery.
Then we reached Tack Creek. Down & up, again... . After Tack Creek,
Tunnel 4 was next but is now gone. It was covered in a landslide but there
was a diversion built around it in 1959. Onward to Cultus Creek.
Yes, you guessed it. Down and up but this one was very rough.
It was very challenging and very hard going. But then we met Tunnel 5.
Up and over. It was completely caved in and we had to climb over the mountain
beside it to continue our journey. It was very unnerving in a few places
but we made it. Then we made a wonderful discovery. The only remaining
trestle in this section of the KVR - the trestle between Tunnel 5 and Tunnel
6. As we knew we couldn't get out the other end of Tunnel 6, having seen
the washout there the day before, here is where we finished. We headed
down just west of the trestle and headed back to our bikes on the pipeline road.
One of the positive aspects of this journey was the
incredible scenery. The valley below, the river running through it, the
mountains of rock combined with the clear air and the sunny days led to many
breath taking vistas along the way. However, I will repeat. I would
not recommend this trip to anyone who is out for an easy walk or a gentle hike.
You must be prepared. There are physical challenges and demands.
There are bears (although we didn't see any). And you must have the permission
of the Pipeline Company to proceed.
I don't know if I'd ever do it again. However,
when I first finished I said Never so I guess you never know.
Sept 21, 2002
ROBERT BOYD
Re: Portia to Coquihalla Lakes (Wayne Gannon ).
Greetings! My name is Robert Boyd , and I live in Aldergrove , B.C. I found
your story very fascinating and informative. I have explored the Coquihalla
Canyon area on a number of occasions , but I have not been up there in over
twelve years. As I was reading your story , I was following along using the
book "Railway Mileposts , British Columbia Volume 2" as a reference. Also ,
the book "Kettle Valley Railway" by Gerry Doekson is helpful as a guide. It
was interesting to find out what was still standing. I remember on my first
trip into Coquihalla Canyon (1979 ) , I noticed a red CPR freight shed still
standing on the right-of-way. It was kind of sad when I learned that Bridle
Veil Falls trestle had collapsed , but I knew that was inevitable. At least
I got to photograph it. One item I would like to point out is that according
to both books I mentioned , there are actually two trestles between tunnels
5 and 6. I guess one of them is gone. I also assume that the 150 foot trestle
between Bridle Veil Falls and Tack Creek is gone , too. Anyway , I would be
interested in venturing there again sometime in the future , but I don't have
anyone to travel with. If you are interested in going on that trip again (and/or
your hiking partner ) , let me know. I am an experienced hiker , and I am no
stranger to mountainous terrain. The soonest will probably have to be next spring
, after the snow has disappeared. If you are interested , my e-mail address
is robandgayleinverness@shaw.ca
Sept 5, 2002
Lois Brymer jmbrymer@axion.net
Man's Jewellery
Found on the KVR
On August 28th, 2002, between Lois and Carmi Stations of the KVR, I found what
looks like a valuable and sentimental piece of jewellery that would belong to
a man. Hopefully, the owner will see this. To claim (with a description), please
e-mail me.
Sept 3, 2002
Ludwig Beil and Barbara Werner
Tandem on the Trail
We've made it!!!
What? We've made the Kettle Valley Railway Trail last month with our tandem. Well,
to say it shortly - we biked from Vancouver to Edmonton and wherever possible
we took the KVR trail. It took us 5 weeks with biking every day with distances
from 45 to 140 km. It has been our fourth time to Canada, so we had no problems.
Dan's book has been a great help (3rd edition). It's very clear and for those
people who are just looking at there odometer it's a must. We only had some problems
because we did the trail the other way round, so we oven had to read the book
form the back to the front.
What we did:
We cycled like people with a lot of time (means: we took all our luggage, tent,
food, cooking, bike repair, radio, books, ... with us on our trip). Because we
have done this some times before we knew what to take with us and so we had 'only'
40 kg of luggage. Sorry, no, we had no axe, no cooler, no firewood with us. We
cycled all the way along - Yes, we did some downhilling, but only after uphilling.
No, we had no van, no pickup waiting at the end of the day, bringing us to a nice
and cosy rest.
Where we went:
Vancouver-Hope Coquihalla-Brookmere-Coalmont-Princeton-Osprey Lake-Penticton-Chute
Lake-Myra-Beaverdell-Rock Creek-Midway-Eholt-Grand Forks-Castlegar Nelson-New
Dever- Nakusk-Revelstoke-Golden-Lake Louise-Jasper-Hinton-Edmonton
What we liked:
We met a lot of interested people, who asked us many, many questions. We got invitations,
people went after us in shops and restaurants, were really interested. Car drivers
on the road behaved respectful and showed us they liked our driving. Many thanks
to the bike shops in Princeton, Penticton and Golden, who helped us with our little
problems.
Our problems with the bike:
We have a Santana Tandem with mountainbike tyres (Schwalbe Marathon XR, the best
brand I've ever seen and used) and 48 spokes. We made 500 km on the trail with
bumping, with sandy parts, with gravel parts. We had two(!) flats: the first came
in a rain stopping after biking 20 km on a bumpy road (so we changed the tube
in Princeton), the second came after having a break in Pentiction at the Tourist
Info. When we wanted to start again we saw we had a flat. There we noticed why
we have had these flats: we had lost a braking pad, fixed it with a metal pin,
but did it wrong so there was this little pin between the metall and the gum part
of the brake. When our braking was very strong - pfff - , we had the flat. So
for all those interested doing the trail with a tandem - it's no problem at all,
if you have a good bike and good tyres. We later had a problem with a chain falling
from the chainrings, twisting the chain little, causing mishifting. As a result
we had some brocken screws on our Shimano HG cassette, which had to been replaced.
Our problems with Dan's book (or the trail):
The book is great. 1. We only had a problem finding the start of the trail near
Hope. We came to the trail, went on it, it was a small path and after 500m there
where some steep ups and downs and a fence. After looking in the book and round
the next corner we turned and took the next entry. 2. Our second problem came
when we tried Dan's description of km 16,2 on Coquihalla Highway. We left the
road to the left, passed through a gate and tried to find our way through some
very dense trees. After struggeling, pushing, lifting the tandem through this
we noticed our fault and passed the bike partly loeaded under a fence back to
the road. 3. From Rosebery ot Hills (NSR) we also took the trail. It was nice,
flat, but only one lane could be used and the grass and the green is very lively
on the trail. 4. After Rosebery (must have been after Hills, km 21.3) the trail
gets lost in the bushes, then there is a steep up and down and the trail gets
very small. There were no signs left, a lot of mess and we decided to push the
bike back to the raod and leave the trail.
After all:
We made 2300 km biking in Canada, we made some great summits (for Canadians),
we lost some kg, some sweat, had great fun. At the end of a day we often said:
'Why are we doing this.' Sometimes we said this even in the morning. But we liked
it. Ludwig Beil and Barbara Werner
August 28, 2002
Karen baycofee@hotmail.com
8/18-8/22 Rock Creek to Penticton
Myself, from Delta, BC, and my 2 friends from California arrived at the Ingram
Mountain Cabin, east of Rock Creek, on 8/17th. It was raining, windy, an earlier
wind storm had toppled many trees, caused power outages Hostess Wendy offered
us a glass of wine, host Mark helped us park our truck. The cabin is situated
about 2 kms up a windy hill, but well worth the drive. By prearrangement, Wendy
said we could leave our truck there. Mark dropped us off the next day at St. Mary's
Anglican Church, east of Rock Creek. Wendy and Mark said that they would be happy
to pick cyclists up, and drop them off nearby by request RECOMMENDED: self contained
cabin sleeps 6, 2 queen, 1 double, non smoking, kitchen, comfortable, very clean...bring
your own food or drive to Cheshire's Restaurant, Edelweiss Inn (250) 449-2884
Ingram Cabin, Wendy or Mark Tossavainen
From St. Mary's Anglican Church to Beaverdell 8/18/02
The trail was sandy in parts. My hybrid bike didn't do as well as my friends'
mountain bikes. Then we encountered four sets of trees over the trail. Hopefully
they will be cleared by now, but they were quite a difficult obstacle at the time.
We decided to lift our fully loaded bikes over them, 2 on each bike. One time
we removed our panniers, as the trees were too high and branches too dangerous.When
we finally reached Paul's rest stop, we were very ready for the shade and hospitality.
Paul turns 80 on Sept. 28th, 2002. I think that all appreciative cyclists should
send him a card Paul Lautard, Rhone, BC We arrived at Beaverdell and had the Sunday
turkey buffet with strawberry rhubarb pie for dessert. Very yum! Accommodation
is limited in Beaverdell, so book ahead. Rooms are extremely basic, showers and
toilets down the hall. The pub shut down around 10:30 pm on Sunday after a karioke
session. We drifted off to sleep serenaded by wantabe Canadian Idols. Good thing
we were exhausted. When in Beaverdell for breakfast at Our Place, fire warden,
George told us he saw a black bear about 100 meters after us. Great breakie!
Beaverdell to McCulloch 8/19/02
The leg from Beaverdell to McCulloch was long and gradually up most of the way.
This day my bike was the star. With it's larger tire circumference, I worked far
less than my American counterparts. McCulloch Lake, a peaceful setting, the resort
not happiness. We stayed in an upper chalet, lovely view of the lake. The bathroom
had a 'water not potable' warning. Bottled water was in the hallway between the
2 upper chalets, about 3/4 empty. When booking in great pressure was put on us
to take the 'meal plan'. The sense we all got was that this resort was disorganized,
understaffed, (many workers were complaining of this), and that the customer was
definitely not put first. The poached salmon was dry that evening. When our bottled
water ran out, we asked at breakfast if we could have some more. An employee snapped,
"It's a dollar a litre." I thought this rather strange as we had just paid $135.00
plus taxes and $35 each for the meal package. When we told the employee that our
water was 3/4 empty upon arrival, she said she'd see if she could do something.
We were also advised by cyclists who stayed in a cabin that they had mice for
company.
McCulloch to Chute Lake 8/20/02
A cruise of a ride, all downhill. Just one big wheeeeeeeeee. Chute Lake Lodge
is another very rustic accommodation. The food was tasty and the staff were friendly.
Chute Lake to Naramata/Penticton 8/21/02
Wonderful, wonderful...the tressles do not disappoint. Once again, after the tressles,
I encountered a little sand which forced me to concentrate a little harder than
my friends, but on the whole it was minor. We stayed at Canyon Falls Bed and Breakfast
right off Smethurst Road, which intersects the KVR trail. Jill let us leave our
panniers there and we continued on to Hillside Estate Wineries for a delightful
lunch. (book ahead, we phoned from Chute Lake and left a message)...After lunch,
we continued on to Penticton, a memorable ride through the orchards. I had prebooked
a rental car at Best Choice car and truck rentals. Doug and Myles let us stow
our bikes in one of their closed trailers and gave us the key to the lock. We
drove back to Rock Creek to pick up the truck 232 kms/3 hrs round trip. Cost of
rental with 100 free kms, under $80. It was just before the Penticton Ironman
competition, and a highlight of the trip was being mistaken for Ironman competitors
when asking for directions to Best Choice. That's what cycling does for you, I
guess. (If you saw us 3-50 something ladies, you'd understand the humour). I bought
the 2nd edition to begin planning the trip and then bought the 3rd edition ebook,
(very reasonable), to further detail any changes. Thanks for your thoroughly researched
book. Following the kms with my cycle computer worked really well.
Happy Cycling All!
Karen
August 31, 2002
Karen
booboo in previous posting
Dan, my American friend pointed out that I mixed up day 3 with day 4. The tressles
were on day 3 from McCulloch to Chute, not as previously stated in my posting.
Also, she reminded me that the beginning part of McCulloch towards Chute did
have a gradual incline. But, of course, everyone who buy the book will know
this. Regards, Karen
August 24, 2002
John Q Gregg, jqgregg@oberon.ark.com
NK&S: Spences Bridge to Nicola
Has anyone -- anyone at all -- ridden this section this season? Was it passable?
Any land use issues or obstructions? New and obnoxious fences? Any advice?
August 21, 2002
Don & Pat Chisholm Calgary
Great Book - Trip a success
Hi Dan, Your new edition is great. 4 of us cycled from Castlegar to Merritt in
early July and had no problems at all. We used our truck and camper as a support
vehicle and basically cycled 3 out of each 4 days. The off day one lucky biker
got to drive the truck to the next stop. The trip was so good that my wife and
I are going to do the entire route again, starting about Sep 4th. This time will
be real simple, just bikes and camping grear with no support vehicle. Hope to
see you on the trail.
August 21, 2002
Myrna Hart
Roseberry to Nakusp
Would like to let you know. we tried to cycle the old railway bed from Roseberry
to Nakusp, but soon ran into a real mess. Someone has started logging and is using
the old railbed for a road to take the trees out. He has done irrepairable damage
to the trail as well as ruined the beautiful scenery. Myrna Hart
August 19, 2002
Steve Webb c-swebb@telus.net
Alternate ride through Curlew, Wash. from Grand Forks or Midway.
Hello all, just so you all know, the ride via USA south from Grand Forks to Midway
(should be renamed StewartTown!) is a wonderful alternative...close to the river,
no hills except minor ones towards Midway, small town called Curlew, Wash, (Riverside
Cappucino and bakery....yes, apple pockets to die for if you didn't eat enough
in Greenwood..)No traffic, hardly. Takes 'bout 2-3 hours easy ride. This is not
a Purist KVR route, but a good plan B in case of heat or bad weather. Jim Crawford
uses this route, tries to keep it secret....happy ridin'
August 19, 2002
Steve in Vancouver c_swebb@telus.com
The Hegemans
Thank you for the nice comments regarding our scenery and people along the KVR....sometimes
it's taken for granted, it keeps us coming back. Glad you had a great ride...please
post a note if you come back this way again...happy trails!!
August 19, 2002
Doug doug_brown_7121@hotmail.com
McCulloch Lake
to Penticton
Hi! I am planning on cycling the Carmi and Osoyoos subdivisions the first week
of September. Ideally, I would like to break the trip up as follows
Day 1- Midway to Beaverdell
Day 2- Beaverdell to McCulloch
Day 3- McColloch to Pentiction
Day 4- Pentiction to Osoyoos
Questions- Is it feasible to cycle to ~90KM from McCulloch to Pentiction in 1
day (it is mostly downhill)-What is the best way to get back to Midway from Osoyoos-
I was thinking Greyhound.
August 16, 2002
Scott kidpedal@telus.net
Water
Learned a bit about water on the KVR this summer McCulloch Lodge does charge an
outrageous price for it by the bottle but if you provide your own container they
will charge $1/litre.
The Brookmere Experience... want water, ask a local because there is no other
source. Talked with the lady who looks after the 'lodge' (more like 3 small cabins),
there is no campground but if you want to get cleaned up they only charge $10
for a shower!!
August 15, 2002
Hanneke and Johan Hegeman jhhegeman@che.nl
Travelling the KVR from West to East
Hanneke and Johan Hegeman from Ede, the Netherlands cycled the Kettle Valley Railway
July 23 to August 24 from West to East, and we want to thank the Langfords for
their excellent book guide and also all the wonderful Canadians we met whom helped
us along the way and gave us invaluable advice on doing the stretches with difficult
surface conditions and pointing out the good campgrounds. The KVR not only provides
such splendid scenery - it's the great Canadian friendliness that really moved
us during the last weeks. Thank you all for helping us to a superb vacation. We
have already trekked in Europe and the USA for many a kilometre, but nowhere was
the empathy with the environment (aka local folks and bikers) so great. To give
just one example of many, one of my aluminium panniers came apart riding into
Midway and Mr. Steve Stewart, proprietor of the local Riverfront park was so very
kind to have it welded at the local pulp mill that evening. Splendid, such helpfulness
and there was much more. Such kept us going as 50+ers, even though starting in
Hope is not recommended (see below). We do have a few suggestions, particularly
users of trekking bikes for doing the KVR. We rode Giant Expedition Travel bikes,
specifically designed for long distance hauling, but with 28 inch wheels. That
we noticed because the trail actually requires a mountain bike with 26 inchers,
but I had chanced using a wider bicycle tire, a 28x1.6 (42-622) with a new Continental
tire just out, the Country Ride, which has a very good profile for gravel. Added
to that, I used Michelins A3 Air-+titanium inner tube, a very thick one, which
allowed me to deflate the tyres to 2 psi (and that with loaded bikes!) to negotiate
the bad sandy stretches at Crump, Arawanna and Eholt. Also the soft tyre proved
good suspension on the washboard between Brookmere to Manning and around Rock
Creek. So, cheer up all ye 28 inch wheelers, it can be done, but with a fully
loaded bike (35 kg excl. fluids) it was a tough grind. But if 50+ers can do it,
so can you. Still, there was a real disappointment, I do need to share with potential
trekkers on the KVR. We started the KRV off at Hope (going East) and took the
Transmountain Pipeline Road from Portia Station to Coquihalla. That proved to
be brutal punishment due to very steep grades, bad surface conditions and also
to the fact that a landslide near IAGO covered the trail. Fascinating to witness
such natural violence, including snow and lots of bear dung over which we had
to carry our bags and bikes, but that stretch only took us 8 hours! Totally exhausted
we reached Coquihalla lakes. We were genuinely puzzled that the Langford book
had not warned us (no, I don't blame them for the landslide), but then a Canadian
may intuitively know that a Transmountain pipleline road will be rough - we did
not. If it had not been for the very fine Canadian gentleman camping next to us,
whom had ridden that bad part of the trail himself, whom convinced us that the
rest of the Langford book was very accurate and the lack of information on that
stretch was not indicative of the condition of the rest of info on the trail,
that we decided to give the KVR another try. And we are glad we did, the KVR (from
Brodie on East) is a magnificent experience and deserves worldwide renown. Finally,
we advise everyone doing the KVR to carry enough fluids. We luckily had iodine
with us to disinfect natural water, but it is just amazing how much dry mountain
air demands you drink on a hot day. And taking fluids on a regular basis together
with carbohydrate and fruit snacks will allow to bike long days and continue the
next. We also discovered that one must be flexible in making a trip itinerary,
because not all sections are as easy as, for instance, the stretch from Beaverdell
to Mcculloch Lake, and you may be well advised to rest well. Perhaps we may in
the future continue our bike-quest from Castlegar going East to Lethbridge or
down into Idaho, USA. Can anybody advise me on biking routes, or whether the Trans
Canada Trail going East is a good route to bike? E-mail: jhhegeman@che.nl
August 14, 2002
Dezzie donthaveone@shaw
KVRing on a Tandem
First off, I would like to express my thanks to the people involved in establishing
this web site, what a great resource! Looking to cycle from Midway to Penticton
at the end of August on our off road tandem. Any fellow tandem riders (or anybody
period)think that there are any concerns about riding this section on a tandem.
ps Anybody know of a good place to leave a vehicle in Penticton for a few days?
August 12, 2002
Karen and Dave
KVR Trip Report Rock Creek to Osoyoos - with kids
7 of us, 5 adults,
plus a 5 year old on a trail-a-bike and an 8 year old on his own 5 speed started
out from Rock Creek on July 29th. Spent the previous night at the Edelweiss Inn
in Rock Creek and they allowed us to leave our cars parked in their parking lot
for the week while we were cycling, no charge.
Day 1 went smoothly, weather was thankfully cooler than previous weeks (about
24 and overcast) and we easily made it to our first night stop at Zack's Campground
in Beaverdell (about 50km). Along the way we stopped at Rhone and chatted with
Paul Lautard who filled us in on A LOT of local history, plus provided us with
some cold fresh water for our water bottles. In Beaverdell, Zack proved to be
one heck of a nice guy - even laughed when my 67 year old Dad told him he should
charge more than the 7 dollars a head (kids free) that he did. If he raises his
prices next year, you know who to blame!
Day 2, Beaverdell to McCulloch Lake Resort was a bit tougher for my 8 year old
and my Dad (a strong marathon runner) who was pulling a Burley trailer full of
camping gear but both made it to the campground, a bit tired, but in one piece.
About 15km out of McCullock we came across one cyclist (Ron from Vancouver) who
hadn't brought enough water and was just about done in. We shared the water what
we had and were glad to see him pull in to McCulloch about an hour behind our
group. Ron hadn't bothered to purchase Dan and Sandra Langford's book and had
taken a wrong turn at Wilkinson Creek, cycling uphill on the fire road, missing
the railbed completely, then realizing that his 'shortcut' had added several extra
kms to his trip! (Note to others - Get the Book and save yourself some hassles!)
We were a bit disappointed with the price gauging on water and food at McCulloch
Lake, as well as the shoddy communal bathroom and shower building. The staff was
extremely disorganized and weren't sure wich campsites were reserved and which
were not. A large cycling group of 15 was checking out ahead of us and we had
to stand in line 30 minutes at 8am in order to 'check out. They take a credit
card imprint (even for campers) and we wanted to be sure we got ours back. They
are supposedly working on a new shower building but my dad was there 3 years ago
and says they haven't progressed past the concrete pad that still stands in the
campground. Note to others - stay at the Forest service camground next to the
resort and save yourself some hassle.
Day 3 - McCulloch to Chute Lake. What can I say - Myra canyon was fabulous and
even the bit of rain we had did not dampen our enthusiasm of the views. Chute
Lake resort was sold out of their famous home made pie by 6:30pm but that was
the only disappointment of the day.
Day 4- Chute Lake to Okanagan Falls. Left Chute Lake by 7:45ma and arrived in
Penticton at about 11:30. It was nice to have a 'Fast Food' lunch instead of the
trail mix, dried fruit, tortillas and peanut butter that we'd been subsisting
on for the past 3 days. The mention of 'Happy Meals' certainly made the kids pedal
a bit harder through the sandy sections of this part of the trail. My Dad (pulling
the trailer) and my husband (pulling the trail a bike and 5 year old) had to walk
through some of the sandiest sections. Somehow missed the turn off onto to the
KVR right of way heading out of Penticton and wound up cycling up the big hill
south of Penticton but managed to re-access the trail through the Banbury Green
RV Park. Pulled into the Provincial Park in OK Falls only to discover that they
were 'full' but the kindly campground host took pity on us (or maybe it was the
exhausted kids) and allowed us to set up our tents on a grassy patch near the
park entrance. She even brought over a portable fire pit, a lawn chair and a collapsible
camp table for us to use- nice lady!
Day 5- OK Falls to Osoyoos. The kids decided that they'd had enough bike riding
(sore bums!) So my husband stayed behind while me, my dad, sister and sister-in-law
cycled HWY 97 to Osoyoos - ending at the Windwmill for ice cream. We did the 48
km's in about 2.5 hours, and that included a stop for coffee and fresh baked apple
fritters at a bakery in Oliver. We were on the road by 8am and were able to miss
a lot of traffic. Early starts definitely recommended to avoid the road-hogging
RV's.
All in all - a fabulous trip. Averaged about 50 k per day which didn't seem too
much for my hyper active 8 1/2 year old. Had others tell us it would be too much
for the kids or for pulling a Burley full of gear but we proved 'em wrong. We're
already planning next year's trip - Summerland to Hope!
August 8, 2002
Steve Webb in Vancouver c-swebb@telus.net
Anyone know what trail this is......
While cyclin' along the ol' KVR one snappin' hot day the other week, looking across
the Coquahalla River (south bank), more precicely, between Portia and Iago stations,I
noticed sections of a vintage, well engineered trail made of fitted rocks. Can
anyone tell me what trail this was APS If anyone is ridin' south of Romeo (Coquahalla
Sub.), jucey remnants of an avalanche.... Be prepared to carry gear approx. 1000ft.
But doable!.
August 7, 2002
Joe Smuin
Re Columbia & Western Trail - Urgent
news
release
|
For Immediate Release
August 6, 2002
|
[Name of organisation here]
|
HIGHER
LEVEL PLAN THREATENS PRIME RECREATIONAL AREA – PUBLIC ASKED TO SPEAK OUT
BEFORE
ITS TOO LATE
CASTLEGAR – Proposed
changes to the Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan threaten to destroy recreational
opportunities on the Rails To Trails segment between the Paulson Bridge and
Castlegar, says the [put organisation name here].
The [name
of organisation or pronoun for them] asks Kootenay-Boundary residents and stakeholders
in recreation to request a high Scenic Value designation for the popular route,
and to voice their written objection to proposed amendments to the Higher Level
Plan that would see the Dog Creek Valley open to logging.
The deadline for public comments is August 14th, 2002.
“This area has among the finest recreational
and tourism potential in the Boundary area,” says [name/title] of the [organisation].
International tourists, travel writers, and many locals cycle the route
regularly, says [last name only]. “The
word is out that this segment of the rails-to-trails route is spectacular. It would a real blow to tourism in the
Kootenay-Boundary area and local communities to loose the scenic value of the
Dog Creek Valley.”
The Ministry of Sustainable
Resource Management has proposed changes to the Higher Level Plan that would
allow increased logging in areas designated “mature.” The Rails-to-Trails corridor from Farron
to Bulldog tunnel (Dog Creek Valley) has been designated "mature management"
and is currently without any designation protecting its scenic value for tourism
and backcountry recreation. This means the entire area is open to logging on
both sides of the valley where the Rails-to-Trails right-of-way exists if the
proposed amendments to the Higher Level Plan are approved.
While
timber volumes in the valley are of marginal value to the forest industry, the
visual impact of logging cutblocks would seriously damage economic opportunities
for recreation in the area, affecting businesses in Castlegar, Trail, Christina
Lake Grand Forks and the entire Kootenay-Boundary region.
“Anyone
who relies on recreation for their livelihood or who recreates in the area would
be affected,” says [name and organisation here]. “Hikers, cyclists, cycle tour companies,
skiers, snowmobilers, hoteliers, restaurateurs and businesses that benefit from
local tourism need to act now or risk the demise of an invaluable recreation
area for Kootenay-Boundary residents.”
Mt. Gladstone,
Peter Lake, Faith Lake, and the kilometre-long Bulldog Tunnel are located on
the trail route. Historic sites directly accessible from the trail include a
memorial for Peter the Lordly Verigin, spiritual leader of the Doukhobour community,
and access to former community of Brooklyn on Lower Arrow Lake.
In addition, trestles and high points along the route provide stunning
vistas of Deer Park, Syringa, and the Arrow Lakes.
All correspondence to
the ministries of Sustainable Resource Management and Forests should object
to proposed amendments to the Kootenay Boundary Higher Level Plan for this area,
and request a Level 1 scenic
designation for the Dog Creek Valley.
Send
written comments to Garry Darychuk, Planning Manager, Ministry of Forests, Nelson
Forest Region, 518 Lake St., Nelson BC, V1L 4C6; deliver to any Ministry of
Forests regional or district office; or e-mail KB.HLP@gems4.gov.bc.ca before August
14, 2002.
-30-
This information bulletin is online
at [put URL, if any, here]
|
Contact:
|
Put primary contact name and
phone number here.
|
Put secondary contact name
and phone number here.
|
**********************************************************
August 7, 2002
Michael Pahl & Jeanne-Marie Maher jm3xp@msn.com
Midway to Osoyoos via V V & E
We are looking to cycle the KVR from Midway to Osoyoos next month and were trying
to see if we could make it a loop trip. We would continue down to Oroville,
then take the V V & E trail back via Molson, Bridesville and finally to Midway.
Has anyone done it? How passable is it? From reading the book (3rd edition -
looks great!) we get two impressions. In the narrative, the V V & E trail sounds
relatively overgrown, private, blocked and not very passable (except in short
sections). However from the mileage log no mention is made of any detours off
the trail - it all just seems to go through (albeit with some missing bridges).
There are no notes about how to bypass any unusable sections of trail. What
is the best (most scenic, least traffic) way to get back from Osoyoos to Midway?
Taking roads would be OK, but we would like to avoid major highways and the
associated traffic.
Another question regards crossing the border. Can one simply stay on the V V
& E and cross the border between Molson and Bridesville? Or must you go through
one of the official border crossing stations (and so having to cross at either
the Osoyoos or Midway ends)? Thank you in advance for your advice and recommendations.
August 6, 2002
Jason Tryssenaar jtry@telus.net
Need Info about KVR biking from McCulloch to Naramata
I am looking to do the KVR Railway from approx.McCulloch Lake to Naramata. I
am cycling with my father and want to break the trip into day trips (two??).
Basically my wife and mother want to drop us off and pick us up for the day
trips. Any advice on how many days it would take to ride comfortable for approx.
5 hours ??? to do that route. My wife, mom, and kids want to camp or stay in
the area --- any suggestions?? Any other advice that can be give would be terrific.
Thanks -- Jason
August 6, 2002
Alison Farquhar
Cycling the Columbia and Western
We have just finished riding the section between Castlegar and Midway. We had
a great trip and just wanted to share a bit of information. The Castlegar RV
Park & Campground were great to us. Dale & Liz let us leave our van there, dropped
us off at the trailhead and even offered to pick us up at the bus station. Can't
recommend them enough.
Water was a concern but there was plenty at Bull Dog Tunnel and at Fisherman
Creek Road on the way up to Eholt. We saw a baby cougar on the section of trail
between Fisherman Creek Road 121.2 and the red tuscan shed 122.9. Never saw
the mother but be wary. By the way, don't sleep in the red shed, the noise of
the mice is mind bending!
Christina Lake is less than hospitable to bikers. I guess they are always so
full they don't need to cater to us. If we had only known that just a few more
kms of downhill from Christina Lake at the trestles at 89.1 km and also at 91.7,
there were 2 beautiful wilderness campsites.
The KVR is a treasure! We have now completed the entire trail from Castlegar
to Hope and look forward to tackling it a second time!
August 11, 2002
Steve in Vancouver s-cwebb@telus.net
Re:Alison's info....
Thanks, Ali....your writeup is appreciated as I am heading the opposite direction
this Monday. Will try your camp suggestions just this side of Christina Lake...lookin'
forward to the ride to CastlegarTown, then back to Rock Creek....sounds like
you enjoyed your ride to Hope...( Hashbrowns at the Home Restaurant???)
August 5, 2002
steve & Lori slbaril@shaw.ca
Coquihalla and myra sections
We would like to do a day trip on bikes between portia/shylock, and falls lake,
on the rail bed. Has anyone done this and could offer some advice??? How long,
detours, rail bed condition, etc... just a trip up and down for the afternoon.
I know that I will be on the pipeline road for a portion, is it totally steep
or anything??? Also....we are planning a three day thing from beaverdell to penticton,
with stops at McCulloch lake and chute lake for nights. Is this rail bed a difficult
path??? How long to do 50 km a day on this stretch?? 2 hours,?, 4 hours?? Any
advice again is much appreciated
August 4, 2002
Ken and Pam McCutcheon
Trip Report: Princeton to Brodie Loop
Mileages used are from "Cycling the Kettle Valley Railway" by Dan and Sandra Langford.
This book,incidently is a must requirement when cycling the KVR.
North (west) out of Princeton the trail is in excellent riding condition. However,
watch for glass and foreign objects (pieces of wood) in the tunnel at KM 114.8.
All the washout area's along Tulameen Rvr to Coalmont are easily negotiable. Between
KM 122, Parr Tunnel, and KM 125, encountered a black bear and cub. We saw them
first so were able to stop and not surprise them. They ran off once the momma
bear heard us.
From the bridge at KM 128.4 to Coalmont the railbed is used by vehicles to access
a campground making it washboardy.
The detour at KM 164.7 to KM 165.6 to bypass the burnt trestle at Aspen Grove
Road has been repaired sufficiently to allow passage on the rail grade without
having to leave it.
DANGER: The green coloured outhouse on the north side (west) of Aspen Grove road
where the path up to the railbed, has a hornets/wasp nest on the right wall. Beware!!!!
The railbed from here to Brookmere is very very washboardy, to the point of being
a terrible nuisance. It certainly hinders a nice drift downgrade when coming east
out of Brookmere. From Brookmere to Brodie Loop and then toward Merrit, to KM
12.4 Coldwater road crossing. Good roadbed, washout area's easily negotiable.
Coquihalla Hwy noise was not noticeable.
Side Notes: Princeton. the Belair resturant just up from the railway station offers
a great lunch menu reasonably priced. For a taste of small town BC in a rural
setting, Coalmont Hotel adds a lot of character to your cycling experience.
Stillwaters B&B.Clean and comfortable accomodation. Len and Jean Roberts are wonderful
hosts. It is on west side of lake, so you have to leave KVR in Tulameen or cut
away at Km 147 where road and railway are parallel. I have no financial interest
in above business'.
August 3, 2002
Dave & Brenda kelowna_bc@hotmail.com
Myra - Naramata
On average, how
long does it take to cycle from Myra to Naramata?
August 5, 2002
Ken McCutcheon
Reply: Myra - Naramata Dave and Brenda,
My wife and I (50+) rode the area you are asking about in early July. We did
a lot of sightseeing so probably took longer than someone wanting to highball
right thru. I would allow about two hours to negotiate Myra Canyon. Once you
get thru here you have level running to Chute lake and fairly good roadbed,
although some washboard from Gillard Forest road to Chute Lake, where motor
vehicles access the grade. From Chute Lake to Naramata is downhill and can average
about 12 mph. I would allow a day for it. I rode back up from Naramata to Gillard
and regretted it almost from the beginning. Stupid move on a hot day after being
out all day. Good Luck Ken McCutcheon
August 2, 2002
Scott kidpedal@telus.net
Princeton parking
Does anybody know of a safe place to park a vehicle in Princeton. Would like to
return to my truck and find all four tires still there?
August 1, 2002
Cam Campbell Calgary AB wacampbell@shaw.ca
Myra FSR
I plan to enter the line, for a two day run down to Penticton, using the Myra
Forest Service Rd out of Kelowna. I have a minivan that will drop me and my bike
at the entry to the line. Can anyone advise whether that service road is navigable
with a minivan? Are there any restrictions on use of the road? Are logging trucks
using the road during daylight hours? Current experience would be greatly appreciated.
Cam Campbell Calgary AB wacampbell@shaw.ca
August 5, 2002
Reply: Myra FSR
Ken McCutcheon
Cam, My wife were in the Kelowna/Myra area early in July. We used the Little
White Forest Road, west of Myra Canyon to access the KVR. We have a Mercury
SW and had no trouble at. Road is rough and washboardy, but just have to take
it easy. When we got over to the east side of Myra Canyon, to the head of Myra
Forest Road, there were vehicles of all models and makes there. About 15 vehicles.
Also, if interested, the Gillard Forest Road is accessible in a auto/minvan.
Ken McCutcheon
August 1, 2002
Nola
Re: WILDERNESS-RUSTIC; camp site at CHRISTINA LAKE
I have just had the most wonderful time camping on the lake at Christina. Returned
July 31. From what I can see you should have no problems finding a spot at Texas
Creek, at no time over the fifteen days we were there was in crowded. There are
also may spots on both east and west as you go north but these arewater access
only. If you look at the map on the home page of Christina http://www.christinalake.com/cap/index.htm
you will see Trapper Creek, there will find a spot on the east shore it's Deer
Creek, we were just south of that, Deer Creek has a out house as the only luxury.
The locals frown upon using area that are un-designated no doubt due to the health
risks. The lake is prestine! The eagles abondent! Good Luck, the weather will
get better.
July 13, 2002
Eric Bickle
Lader Creek Trestle and Tunnels
I realize this is 4 years after the original post - but heres some more info about
the Ladner Creek location I heard that the KVR collapsed the tunnel next to the
trestle bridge on purpose for liability reasons - very unfortinate! Todd Barker
created the new hiking trail (Ladner Creek Trail), cleaned out most of the railbed,
and created a path over the collapsed tunnel to the trestle bridge. There is only
one tunnel, not two. It's a long tunnel and he's not close to getting through
yet, the light at the end is just near the top where the landslide(?) was (I think?
mabye I should go back and check..hmmm). I haven't explored much on the other
side but I probably should.... mabye it would be nice to create a connecting trail
over there!
July 30, 2002
Mark W mweston@uvic.ca
Recent ride on Nakusp & Slocan Railway, Nelson & Fort Sheppard Railway, and KVR
from Castlegar to Hope, late July 2002
Having just completed a long tour including the above-mentioned railways, here's
some information for others hoping to do similar trips. The book was very helpful,
especially the maps! Three of us did the trip with fully loaded touring bikes
(averaging 100 lbs each), with largish hybrid tires (ranging from 700/32c-40)
as we also did a lot of riding on the road before the KVR portion. I'll split
up my comments with a section for each rail trail.
Nakusp & Slocan Railway ( Nakusp to Three Forks)
We rode this West to East, in reverse from the book's point of view, but I'll
give kilometre markings as the book does (so we started at km 58.6, Old Nakusp,
and continued to 0.0). The book's coverage of the three East Kootenay railways
(this one, the Columbia & Kootenay from Slocan to South Slocan, and the Nelson
& Fort Sheppard Railway from Salmo to Nelson) seemed to be sometimes incomplete
and lacking some important information, like parks immediately adjacent to the
railbed, and accomodations and supply points. A fun trail, hopefully the section
from Rosebery to Nakusp will start seeing more non-motorized use and publicity
as it is quite enjoyable and remote.
- the condition of the trail was not so great coming out of Nakusp, and we took
to the road at about km 49 or so and rejoined where the grade comes very close
to the highway at around kilometre 40. Sandy and rocky for much of the trail coming
out of Nakusp but better further up.
- trail from Summit Lake to Hills was in mostly decent condition, though lots
of undergrowth hemming in the trail. A few sections were underwater due to culverts
being washed out. Most are easily forded except for one stretch of about 100 m
that is all underwater up to about 1/2 m deep, and not easily bypassed as it is
very grown in. So prepare to get your feet wet! - just before, or near, Hills
there is a large cut in the grade due to either a trestle being out or fill being
washed out. A steep trail on the west side and a shallower trail on the east allows
one to cross it. Immediately east of this point the grade seems to be obliterated
due to a gravel pit and we had a bit of difficulty finding it to the east, as
there seem to be two possibilities. Either way will likely get you to a road which
is quite near to the east and leads back to highway 6 to the north.
- there are a couple of small pile trestles near Hill that don't seem to be mentioned
in the book.
- there is a great provincial park that we stayed in at Rosebery on the north
side of highway 6 immediately adjacent to Wilson Creek. It is not mentioned in
the book. Also there is a great Mexican restaurant at Rosebery right near the
grade that serves great marguaritas (though they are overpriced)!
- at around kilometre 12 there is a bit of detouring you have to do to follow
the Galena trail from Rosebery towards New Denver (or vice versa) due to a lumber
yard taking over the trail. There are little signs directing travellers through
the detours. Also immediately closer to Rosebery the trail does a few wiggles
to avoid a 20 m section of trail that appears to be unneccesarily fenced. The
Galena Trail past the lumber yard from Rosebery to Three Forks is in great shape
and we quite enjoyed it. The Carpenter Creek crossing by railcar is great fun
- though slow, as we had to take most of our gear off our bikes to get everything
across!
Nelson & Fort Sheppard Railway (Salmo to Nelson)
We rode this south to north, following the book. One question I have is this:
why does the coverage in the book stop at Salmo? The rail grade appears to be
in good shape and carry on west of Salmo, and one can only speculate as to how
far it is rideable. Please Dan and Sandra could you expand coverage in future
editions of this rail trail? - rail grade out of Salmo appears to be in worse
shape than the book indicates (all it says is "good cycling condition"). It is
sandy and quite rocky near Salmo, though it improved slowly going towards Nelson.
Once the trail passes Cottonwood Lake near Nelson it becomes an excellent surface
and gave us a speedy downhill run into Nelson. As we did it on fully loaded hybrid
bikes, it is definitely rideable, but don't expect to make good time! Even on
the shallow uphills we were fairly slow for the entire uphill portion and some
of the downhill.
- km 32.6: access to Cottonwood Lake Regional Park is only possible (it appeared
to us) by taking the road from the highway, which is 50 m or so north of where
the grade crosses the highway. So if you are coming North you pass by the lake,
proceed to the highway, and then 50m down the highway turn left onto the access
road to the park and proceed south to the park. If there is a more direct access
we missed it...
Columbia and Western, from Castlegar to Midway
- a piece of advice for those planning to do Castlegar to Christina Lake in two
days (due to the long distance): keep topped up with water! If the map shows a
stream crossing the grade it is not necessarily accessible! We cycled from Nelson
to Shields station our first day on the grade and expected to find water as there
was a stream crossing, but we couldn't access it and ended up taking a 4x4 road
down to the lake to get water (a long way down and back up)! The water situation
appeared similar at Cokyendahl. In general the major streams along the hillside
ascending up from the lake are far below the railgrade due to a high trestle or
fill and are very hard to reach, but there are small water sources right along
the rail grade at several points between stations and major trestles. These would
thus make better camping spots.
- km 82.2: the pedestrian walkthroughs at Fife have had the outer sections removed
so that they are now just thin gaps in the fence, wide enough to squeeze a fully
loaded bike through, without having to toss bikes over the fence. (we were very
pleased to see this!)
- the campsite in Christina Lake at the end of Johnson Street on the lake is unremarkable
and overpriced ($30 for a small site with zero privacy: the sites are a subdivided
field with nothing between sites, not even a line!). The only reason to stay there
would be free showers and the beachfront location.
- km 112.4 outside Grand Forks: the railgrade was indeed horribly sandy, but not
for 6 km: more like 1.5 to 2 km, and it improved after this. - the condition of
the grade between Eholt and Greenwood we only found to be "weedy" (as the book
suggested) for a few sections, noteably crossing fields from one side of the valley
to the other. Mostly it was fast and in good condition, though not wide (often
only single-track).
- km 150.3: we didn't find the trail to be very weedy, mostly quite fast into
Midway.
KVR from Midway to Penticton
- the detours west of Midway through the lumber yard seem to be in a constant
state of flux and the directions in the book didn't seem to entirely match up
with what we had to do. Parts of the detour were in very poor shape, sandy and
rocky. Hopefully the lumber yard is contributing to fixing this up!
- km 42.8 - 44.4 We found the directions in this section of the book confusing
and thought we had to ford the river to get to the Little Dipper Campground from
the road, as it is not too clear when the book is distinguishing between the Blythe-Rhone
Rd and the highway across the river. Most cyclists will probably just take the
road for 2 km instead of trying to find the river fordings, so maybe this could
be made clearer. The Little Dipper campground is on the east side of the road,
on the west side of the river.
- much of the railgrade (possibly all) between McCulloch and Chute Lake is used
as a road and as such is washboardy and dusty. We were passed by cars on this
section and passed several groups having trouble with the poor surface.
- 205.3 At this point we didn't find the trail to be much more "loose" (as the
book says) than it was for most of the descent from Chute Lake to Penticton: most
of it is quite sandy and fairly rocky so we didn't notice an appreciable difference.
This descent was the longest consistently bad surface we rode on the entire trip
(Castlegar to Hope).
KVR from Penticton to Brookmere
- while I agree with the book that the surface was overall in better shape on
this subdivision, there were long sections that were not in such great shape and
possibly should be mentioned, such as Penticton to Summerland and Osprey Lake
to near Erris Tunnel (the former is rough and a bit sandy and rocky and the latter
is a bit sandy due to ATV and horse use).
- a tip about accomodations that could be mentioned: most of the camping in Summerland
is on the lake, which is inconvenient for cyclists on the grade as it entails
going down to the lake and then back up again to continue the trip. However, the
hostel in downtown Summerland has camping spots for a reasonable price. It is
the Essex Travel Hostel, located at the corner of Peach Orchard Rd and Rosedale
Ave; their website is www.summerlandhostel.com
.
- there appears to be some camping at Faulder: while on the road detour to Faulder
we passed a "Camping" sign on our left (going west) immediately before reaching
the road junction that leads down to the grade. Possibly needs further investigation?
- it is not too easy to access the Thirsk Lake recreation area at km 55.0 from
the grade; you either have to go about 1 km past the recreation area to where
there is a connection between the old highway and the grade, or at km 53.7 turn
onto the old highway 40 and follow it along the lake.
- between km 109.1 and past Princeton Castle Resort the railbed is chewed up due
to the horse traffic from the resort. - the section of trail between km 165.6
(where the road joins the railbed) and km 173.6 (entering Brookmere) are used
as a road and it is VERY poor washboard and quite jarring to cycle. Please can
we get motorized vehicles off the railgrade once and for all, and especially on
this painful section!!! KVR from Brookmere to Hope
- advice to people with loaded bikes: don't take the trail from Juliet to the
summit; we did this and found the river fordings (in late July no less) quite
challenging; it took three people to carry each bike across the river. Also the
pipeline "trail" (more a cow path) and trail along the highway to km 22.2 were
quite slow (also less interesting as we weren't even on the original grade). The
section from Brodie to Juliet I would say is quite worth it, however the first
washout detour is a challenge.
- just before km 85.1 there is a very annoying fence with pedestrian walk-throughs
that has been erected (presumably recently as it is not mentioned in the book).
Bikes have to be lifted over the fence. Write to the City of Hope and complain!
July 30, 2002
K. Duyndam kduyndam@shaw.ca
Westbridge Parking
We will be starting a 5 day cycling trip from Westbridge to Oliver on Thursday
August 1.Could you please inform me as to where I can safely park my vehicle for
that length of time in Westbridge. Thank you in advance for this helpfull information.
Kasey
July 29, 2002
Ed Braun
C&W
Hello again Dan, four of us just finished cycling the Columbia and Western railway.
We found the Castlegar to Christina Lake section readily accessible and well traveled,
encountering over 30 other cyclists on that section. In Castlegar we used the
Pass Creek Park Campground as our lauching point. This campground is very close
to the beginning of the trail, has treed or grass camping sites, showers, public
kitchen and, is very comfortable. We found the campground managers, Dan & Lynn,
very hospital able and accommodating of cyclists; Dan is even planning a shuttle
service for cyclists doing this route. We highly recommend this campground for
the beginning of cycling the C&W. Once again we found your book very helpful for
this trip; last year we used it to cycle the KVR from Midway to Summerland. For
the C&W rail bed you state that km. 39.7, Tunnel Station would make a reasonable
campsite except for the absence of a reliable water source. At km. 38.4, Bulldog
Tunnel you state that almost always the east end of the tunnel has water cascading
down. We found abundant water at the tunnel's east end; enough to take a shower,
fill up all our water containers, walk through the tunnel and camp overnight at
Tunnel Station. We had a lovely campout there and recommend this procedure to
other cyclists. Just a couple of thoughts for cycling the C&W, Ed Braun
July 29, 2002
Dave Cason davec@sagatech.ca
CAR SHUTTLE NEEDED - Midway to Penticton/Osoyoos
HI, Does anyone know if someone is still running a shuttle service or a bus from
Midway to Penticton/Osoyoos? I need to move a car from Midway (start) to Penticton
/ Osoyoos or I'll need to get a ride back to Midway from Penticton or Osoyoos
It'll be around the 23 or 24th of Aug Cheers Dave
Post a Reply
July 28, 2002
Mark Rickerby
Scenic values Farron to Bulldog and beyond at risk
Hello fellow KVR and C&W riders! Here's an item on the Rails-to-Trails radar in
need of your review and quick response! Otherwise the BC Govt will push through
a plan to log the Rails to Trails corridor between Farron and Bulldog Tunnel and
beyond!
Up to August 14, 2002, feedback is being solicited for the BC Govt's Amended Kootenay-Boundary
Higher Level Plan ... the Plan is essentially the logging and development plan
for this part of southern BC.
The plan can be found at this address:
http://www.luco.gov.bc.ca/regional/kootenay/index.htm
Pay close attention to the maps for Arrow and the Boundary.
The entire Rails-to-Trails corridor from Farron to Bulldog tunnel - the Dog Creek
valley - is without any designation for Scenic values and has been designated
"mature management" ... which, friends, is Ministry of Sustainable Resource Mgmt
code for clear-cut, logging roads, etc. "Mature management" has been specified
for both sides of the forest which the Rails-to-Trails right-of-way passes through.
While the timber volumes available in this valley are marginal and low value,
the visual impact of the cutblocks will be HUGE for riders and others who frequent
this segment of the right-of-way. Those who know the beauty of the valley should
be outraged by the Amended Plan; those who have yet to witness it will surely
be disappointed if the Amended Plan is passed without preserving the visual values
of the Dog Creek valley.
Take a few moments now to write or email any one or all of the following individuals,
voicing your concern for the preservation of visual values on the Columbia &Western
right-of-way, and demand that the route from Farron to Bulldog Tunnel be afforded
a meaningful Scenic designation (minimum Scenic Values Class 2) in accordance
with Higher Level Plan process, and consistent with the Rails-to-Trails usage
in the area.
DEADLINE for your feedback to the Plan is August 14, 2002. Please provide your
FEEDBACK to the BC Govt and its Agencies TODAY!
Garry Darychuk
Planning Manager
Ministry of Forests, Nelson Forest Region
518 Lake St. Nelson BC, V1L 4C6
e-mail KB.HLP@gems4.gov.bc.ca.
The Honourable Stan Hagen
Minister of Sustainable Resource Management
Province of British Columbia Victoria, BC
Phone: 250 703 - 2422
Fax: 250 703 - 2425
Email: stan.hagen.mla@leg.bc.ca
The Honourable Sandy Santori
Minister of Management Services
MLA West Kootenay - Boundary
Province of British Columbia Victoria, BC
Phone: 250 364 - 5514
Fax: 250 364 - 5520
Email: sandy.santori.mla@leg.bc.ca
The Honourable Michael de Jong
Minister of Forests
Province of British Columbia Victoria, BC
Phone: 604 870 - 5486
Fax: 604 870 - 5444
Email: mike.dejong.mla@leg.bc.ca
July 28, 2002
Tom and Cindy Schoenit cintom@telus.net
posting
We are planning a bike trip on the KVR beginning in Summerland and finishing in
Hope. How many days should we plan for. Any suggestions where to sleep each night.
What is the lightest and most filling foods to carry. Does the trail disappear
at any points or are there any detours along the way?
July 25, 2002
Heather heathermhall@hotmail.com
Posting
We had an all too brief 2 days of cycling on the KVR. Day 1 was from Midway (free
parking at the museum) to Grand Forks. Fabulous views of the North Fork Valley
& Granby River from Eholt to GF (bonus! saw a bear & 2 cubs). Day 2 was from Grand
Forks to Christina Lake where we stayed at the Brio B&B run by the charming Joan
(great breakfast). Wildways bike shop shuttled us back to our car. Take lots of
water - it was hot.
July 23, 2002
patrick zanette zanette@shaw.ca
looking for riding group?
I am interested in cycling a part of the railway and am looking for any groups
I may join to do this. I am interested in a 3 to 5 day trip for sometime in August.
If any group needs a few more cyclists let me know Thanks, Patrick
July 22, 2002
Wayne and Laura
Coquihalla
Hi, Dan. We just picked up your 3rd edition - great reading and interesting to
keep up with the updates.
My wife & I live in Abbotsford and so have our easiest access to the Coquihalla
subdivision. Therefore, that's where we've focused our explorations. We'd like
to share a bit of info on that area & ask a couple of questions.
We realize that one of the most scenic areas we've discovered in the Coquihalla
country is that area from Portia to Coquihalla Station and it's controlled by
Trans Mountain Pipeline. On July 5th, I talked with a fellow out of the Calgary
head office and requested permission to travel on their right of way. I had no
problem receiving authorization as long as I was either on foot or on a bike.
At the present time, they have installed a second gate about 250 meters from their
first gate. This was because there's clearcutting taking place just inside the
Portia gate up on the side of the slope. The first gate will sometimes be open
allowing workers to enter the clearcut area but then you encounter the second.
A lot of bears in this area, as well, so watch for the signs.
Wondering if you've ever had the chance to travel on the original railbed from
Tunnel #1 through to Iago. We've been up to Tunnels #1, 2, & 3 without too much
difficulty but didn't go through because of the cave ins. Have you ever ventured
through them? It looks like someone may have but not us, not yet. Wondering if
you've heard anything.
We have travelled the valley on the pipeline road on numerous occasions but have
not attempted to complete the full journey on the railbed. e realize this type
of a enterprise would be best undertaken without bikes in tow. We would very much
like to take the challenge and travel the original line, if it is at all possible,
with a group of fellow enthusiasts.
Would you be interested in being a part of this adventure or do you know anyone
who would like to involved? It will be quite the undertaking but, we think, very
exciting and very rewarding.
Regarding the Coquihalla substation, we have a drawing by Gerry Doeksen done in
1980 showing the water tower on one side of the railbed and the station on the
other. (We have found the cement foundation of what we assumed was the station
but haven't found the water tower.) Do you know which piece of info is correct?
Over the past winter, we've also explored by foot and in the snow, the area from
Ladner Creek trestle to the rock slide of the 1926 derailment, just past Jessica.
However, although we've carried on from there to as close to Lear as possible,
in a hop scotch fashion, we have found that many sections of the railbed have
been destroyed by the building of the highway. We do find exploring the railbed
in the winter months in our area is easier because we are able to locate the railbed
without all the underbrush that summer brings.
We started all of this last year because we bought your first book. We immediately
got the KVR bug and have truly enjoyed mapping out, almost step by step in some
cases, the Coquihalla subdivision. It's a bit more exploration than the other
areas we've visited, such as the Princeton area or Myra Canyon, because so much
has been destroyed. Finding the small pieces that remain is almost like uncovering
a treasure. Thanks for all of your hard work. We look forward to hearing from
you. Wayne and Laura
July 21, 2002
Vivian Paterson Osprey Lake Lodge
B&B KVR cycle route
I received your website from cyclists Gary and Bobbie Harder when they spent the
night in my B&B which is located at the Osprey Lake summit on the trans-Canada
trail approximately half-way between Summerland and Princeton. My property is
appoximately 150 Meters from where the trans-Canada trail crosses Link Lake Road
(west end Osprey Lake). More info and photos of my operation is available at www.pixsell.bc.ca/bcbbd.htm
The third photo was taken from the trans-Canada trail at the west end of the old
rail bridge. I have had the pleasure of hosting cycle groups before and look forward
to more of you in the future. Vivian Paterson Osprey Lake Lodge
July 19, 2002
Kathy Bowen Kathy_Bowen@sd34.bc.ca
Carmi Subdivision
My husband and I are planning to cycle from Midway to Penticton, stopping overnight
at the Beaverdell Hotel and the McCulloch Lake Resort the following night. In
all our trip should take us three days (July 30-Aug.1). We are both extremely
fit but since we have never done this before, are we allowing enough time or too
much? Should we bring a lot of food with us? We're not camping and there seems
to be a few facilities along the route. Appreciate your recommendations. Thanks,
Kathy
July 15, 2002
John Ward
Thanks for the inspiration!
This has been the fourth summer I have cycled on the KVR in small groups, guided
by your book. Summer 1 and 3: Rock Creek to Osoyoos. Summer 2: Coalmont to Hope.
Summer 4: Osoyoos to Merritt. All were a lot of fun, and interesting too. All
the riders on our trips have really appreciated your advice and guidance.
I understand that you have a 3rd edition of Cycling the KVR just out, and I have
been working from the 2nd edition, so may have missed some new items. Anyway,
I wanted to pass along a few observations on the latest trip, for your use, or
whatever . . . .
1) In connecting with the Osoyoos subdivision in Penticton, we have not used either
of your two routes. We managed to pick up the trail at the Northwest corner of
Skaha Lake. This year, we came from the South through Wright's RV Park -- there
is a gate right behind the office, which takes you onto highway 97. I suppose
we were on Indian reserve land, but never encountered anyone associated with the
organization.
2) After walking over the Trout Creek Trestle near Summerland, we took a detour
into the city using quite a flat route: right on Canyon View Rd, Left on Hilborn,
and right on Giant's Head Rd to Prairie Valley Rd, which took us very close to
the bakeries on Main St. Yum! Then back on to Prairie Valley Rd, and since the
train was not running uphill to Faulder. With loaded bikes, it was a steep ride,
and we did some pushing up steep hills.
3) We lost a lot of time finding our way over the Trout Creek at 37.7 km. We were
looking for a trail 50 metres prior to the bridge, and did not find one. So we
walked a long way back and found some trails to the left (South I believe that
went down to the creek and a cleared out area (with log across the creek) which
was impassable. I think we confused this log with the log in the picture in the
book, which probably is a lot closer to the bridge? Then some of our colleagues
spotted a trail to the right and down, about 20 metres back from the bridge (it
was flagged). This trail took us to the roadway and road bridge. Please note that
this trail is not what we would call a "faint trail" -- it is quite distinct,
but it is not a logging road type trail -- just one track. The description as
being near a sand slide was not useful . What would have been helpful is a note
that the trail begins between the berms built up before the bridge, it goes to
the right, and down, not up.
4) We also got fooled at the kathleen Creek Bridge detour. I think your 200 metre
distance is correct for the ideal connection to the rail bed, but there is a track
immediately after the bridge (within 10 metres) that we thought you were referring
to as the "small road" which leads to a steep climb back to the trail. Actually,
the small road you refer to after the bridge more like 50 metres after the road
bridge. So we ended up taking the second instead of the third track, and ended
up dealing with the high, loose fill. (and a flat!) I should pay more attention
to my odometer . . .
5) We stayed at Kershar Horse Motel at Spearing Station. This is one of the few
campgrounds in the immediate area, and we were glad to be the first to use Burt's
new HOT SHOWER. You might mention that in your notes on the 3rd edition. He was
very accommodating, and charming too. And Burt said he would like some more business,
having only had 5 visitors by the time we arrived in early July. Note that the
3 km before this location has some really bone jarring washboard -- I think we
broke a spoke on this section.
6) Especially between Penticton and Princeton, we encountered a lot of sand and
loose fill, which really made the going slow. Between sand, finding detours, and
a few flat tires and mechanical problems, we lost quite a lot of time, and did
not make our distance goals. So cyclists need have the sand highlighted and to
take it into account when they plan their trips -- I think the next time we would
do Penticton to Princeton in three days, not two.
7) On the Brookmere to Merritt portion, we got on the highway at Kingsvale, mainly
because the trail was quite poor at that point, and because it was not clear how
to get back on the railbed once one crossed the highway. In hindsight, we are
glad we did -- the trip from the railbed to the highway via Peterson Road looked
like quite a climb. So thanks for all the energy you have put into this guide
-- we have enjoyed it, and our trips tremendously, and the adventures that went
along with them.
Sincerely, John Ward
July 14, 2002
steve baril slbaril@shaw.ca
Osyoos Sub.
thanks for the advice from fellow kvr riders re:penticton - osoyoos. As expected,
the Penticton native band said no to my telephone request for access between Skaha
station to ok falls, but the gates are all open and cycle away! I am still not
sure why they would say no, the entire area within the reserve is completely undeveloped.
We made a huge huge huge mistake on our trip! We were so gung ho about staying
on the right of way as much as possible, that we cycled the great piece on the
west side of vaseaux lake, followed the "road that dwindles out after 1 kilometer"
after the missing bridge at vaseux lake, but failed to realize that eventually
we would still need to cross the river channel at some point, and had to endure
a hike/climb around the base of Mcyntire bluff for about 2-3 hours!!! We wanted
to cross the river, but it was still too high! A lot of bear crap, berries, snakes,
and BONES, of perhaps other stupid cyclists. Follow the highway guys on this stretch,
your moms will sleep better at night!!
July 13, 2002
Ken McCutcheon
KVR Trip Report and Trail Conditions
Greetings, My wife and I have just completed a bike trip from McCullough to Penticton
using Kelowna as a home base.
Day One: Accessed the KVR from June Springs Rd. Road was a little rough and washboardy.
We drove a Mercury Sable station wagon and had no problems with traction. Rode
east thru Myra Canyon and on to McCullough, 17 miles one way. Rail bed is in excellent
condition. Hard packed and easy peddling. June Springs Rd parking lot was empty
except for us. The Myra Canyon Rd at east end of canyon was packed with adults,
kids and vehicles. Despite all the people we encountered in the late morning,
by time we returned at 3-4 PM Canyon area was deserted. Excellent day ride.
Day Two: Accessed KVR on Gillard Creek Forest Road. Again, road is in good shape.
No sign of logging trucks. Rode west to Chute Lake. ROW is very rough, washboardy
in some areas. Very uncomfortable riding, especially for a full bodied female.
Passed a few recreational vehicles in this area, which probably accounts for the
potholes and washboard. Hard packed sand service.
Chute Lake to Naramata: All down hill, drifting along at about 10-12 MPH. Very
scenic of course. Railbed service is soft sand which doesn't bother you while
dropping down grade. Actually helps to slow you up and give you a chance to eyeball
the terrain. However, it was a different story peddling up hill. The soft sand
was a real detriment to this rider. Even though there is a bypass around the Adra
Tunnel, by all means ride right into the two portals. There is an incredible cool
breeze blowing out of the tunnel and rock cut. Just what the doctor rordered on
a hot day. If you chose to not see the tunnel, the bypass is just a few yards
out of the cut and well marked.
This trip on the KVR has wetted our appetites for much more KVR cycling. Ken
July 13, 2002
Brian Van Vliet
Thanks Message:
On the Canada Day weekend we made a road trip from Edmonton to travel the KVR
from Beaverdell to Penticton on the Carmi Subdivision. Due to time constraints,
it was very helpful to have a shuttle to return us, our bikes and our gear to
Beaverdell. Many thanks go out to Jacquie and to Craig from Kettle Valley Trail
Tours & Shuttle! In setting up a time, Craig was most patient and accommodating.
The shuttle made our trip much more pleasant and we very much enjoyed Jacquie's
company and shuttle efforts. I highly recommend Craig's service and I hope more
people will take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their experience of
the KVR.
July 12, 2002
Janet Porowski
Lorna to Rock Creek
I know this trip runs backwards to most people, but we found it to be a great
trip and well worth considering for first time KVR cyclists, who want a short
trip, as the grade is mostly level or slightly down hill. We did this in 3 days
at a leisurely pace. Day 1 was a drive from the coast to Kelowna, followed by
a cycle from Lorna (a bit tricky for us to find Lorna Station area with no signs,
etc.) to McCulloch Station where we stayed in the chalet at McCulloch Lodge. Day
2 cycled to Beaverdell and stayed at the Highland Cabins. Day 3 cycled to Rock
Creek, stopping to visit Paul at the Rest Stop%2C and had a late lunch in the
Kettle River Provincial Park just before Rock Creek. It was a great trip and would
highly recommend it!
July 8, 2002
J. Reeder ajreeder@shaw.ca
Travelling Carmi route between Aug. 6-9/Save money?
3 of us have booked a shuttle from Summerland to Rock Creek on Aug 6 leaving at
7:00 a.m. If there are two people who would like to join the shuttle it will reduce
the price from 61$-37 $. Also we are considering booking a cabin on August 8th
at Chute Lake. There is a minimum two night booking if anyone would be interested
in staying the 9th and sharing the cost as we only want to stay one night.
July 4, 2002
Aron Threinen Aron_Threinen@telus.net
Carmi Section
Me and a buddy just complete the section from Westbridge to Penticton on the July
1 long weekend. We had a blast! The trail is in good shape most of the way except
where it is being used as a road. I was surprised that we only met up with a few
people cycle this section. I am hoping to get a copy of your 3rd edition this
summer, and I am going to try and plan a trip from Summerland to Hope for next
year.
July 3, 2002
Dave Howorko khoworko@telusplanet.net
Cycling with kids on the KVR - good idea??
Later this month my wife and I are cycling Rock Creek to Osoyoos with a group
of people that will include our two kids. I will be pulling our 5 year old on
a trail-a-bike while my 8 1/2 year old rides his 5-speed. We hoping to do about
50km a day. We are an active family (lots of hiking and biking) and we've done
some family training rides on the paved bike paths in our city (some as much as
70km in one day) and our older son has managed that. But the KVR isn't paved,
thus, a more difficult cycle. Has anyone done this section of the KVR with an
8 year old riding his own bike and would they recommend it? What about kids riding
the section between Penticton and Osoyoos - too dangerous with road traffic? Any
words of advice from those with direct experience would be greatly appreciated.
July 2, 2002
Kevin k5weeks@yahoo.com
Dirt biking the KVR
Hi, I would like to inquire about the use of dirtbikes on the KVR... are they
allowed? Its not like we will be going fast, just a leisurely pace. If it is acceptable,
our primary concern is gas - where can we get it along the trail? What is the
best route to take so fuel is 'easily' accessable? We are not worried about accomodation,
food, water, etc. However, fuel is quite a concern (not fun pushing a 250p bike
& gear), and no I don't own a bicycle Thank you Kevin
July 1, 2002
Steve Webb
Rock Creek to Castlegar in Aug.
Hello all....all info is appreciated!!!! Any suggestions or good stuff regarding
a trip from Rock Creek to Castlegar , 2nd week of August? How 'bout south from
Midway through Washington State to Grand Forks ( Mr. Crawford mentioned this leg...although
not for KVR purists)....Please reply...see you all on the ol' KVR trail...Steve
in Vancouver.
June 29, 2002
steve baril slbaril@shaw.ca
Posting
Can anyone tell me how the penticton Indian band is for allowing folks to cycle
along the route between penticton and Kaleden? I would like to do this trip in
the next couple of weeks with a friend from penticton to Oliver and beyond.
Also, I am a greyhound driver and noticed the postings concerning bus service
to rock creek and midway. There is active service to these communities from both
osoyoos over the anarchist, as well as from Kelowna on Hwy 33. The reason for
having to send your bikes in a bike box, if anyone is wondering, is simply due
to the volume of requests that we get for bike loading, and in actual fact, an
unboxed bike can awkwardly take up a lot of room in the baggage tanks, sometimes
only two bikes can get in there!! Just FYI fellow riders.
June 24, 2002
Murray Fairley hagelres@island.net
Princeton Subdivision
A buddie and myself have just completed the Princeton Sub-Division travelling
from Faulder (to by-pass the Active Section) to Thynne Lake (km 153). Started
the morning of June 19, camping at the first nite at Link Lake forestry site (km
65.0) This section is in good shape with the exception of the Trout Creek by-pass.
Pretty tough slugging with fully loaded bikes. Second nite at Rainbow Lake campsite
(km 109.6). This section was apeice of cake due the fact it was all downhill.
The only exception was at Siwash Creek (km 77.9) The base was absolutely terrible.
Made for difficult riding. Spent the third and fourth nite at km 142.4, a real
neat campsite on the shore of Otter Lake. Spent two days fishing Otter Creek right
up to Thynne Lake. As we had to return to Princeton to pick up our vehicle we
stopped in the Coalmont Hotel for a small libation with the colourful locals.
Spent the fifth and last nite at Km 128.4, a very nice sandy beach on the Tulameen
River. Made Princeton on the morning of the 24. All in all a very enjoyable trip.
One suggestion if I may. It would be extremely informative if there could be kilometer
markers along the way to let people know where they exactly are
June 21, 2002
Wendy and Terry Methot CCL
Coley Creek Lodge, Brookmere
Thanks for including us in your book, excellent. We are a little concerned about
people dropping in. Reservations have to be made, but the bikers who have your
book don't realize that, so my apologies to anyone who might complain to you about
us not being available. However, we are doing our best to be there as much as
possible and Katie Murphy, (our host) will be placing a sandwich board out on
the railway bed as often as she can be available, to redirect any passersby so
they can come to her first.
June 20, 2002
Lois Brymer jmbrymer@axion.net
Posting
We (2 couples) plan to cycle the Summerland to Midway section (via Penticton)
of the Kettle Valley Railway, the end of August. Does anyone have any hot tips
for Bed & Breakfasts along the way or any interesting places to stay and/or eat?
Thanks.
June 20, 2002
Heather Koller
KVR Bike Trip
I just read through trip notes that took place from Rock Creek to Hope, and I
noticed that the Coalmont General Store was listed. The store is no longer open
for business, but the Tulameen Trading Post is open for groceries/post/accomodations
across the street/laundromat/liquor, etc.
June 19, 2002
Nelda
BOB trailer
Hi, I was wondering if anyone knows where I could rent a bob trailer in the Kelowna
area suitable for the KVR? Also was wondering if there is any bear problems along
KVR from Myra to Penticton. thanks for any information, Nelda
June 30, 2002
Bernie Pulsifer zoemorg@monarch.net
Re:Bob Trailer Rental
Last summer our family cycled from Castlegar to Penticton via the Columbia Western
& Kettle Valley Railway beds. The previous summer we cycled from Rock Creek
to Princeton. We have two BOB trailers that handled exceptionaly well on these
trips. If anyone is interested in renting the BOB's please contact me through
email. We could ship the trailer's on the Greyhound bus.
June 17, 2002
Karen and Dave
Parking in Midway and Osoyoos
Next month, a group of 10 of us will be cycling the Midway to Osoyoos section
of the KVR. We will be travelling in a total of 4 vehicles, 3 of which we wish
to park in Osoyoos (our end point), the 4th we will leave in Midway. Does anyone
know of a place that will allow us to park our cars for the 4 days we will be
cycling? I've heard some stories about cyclists finishing up a 250k bike ride
only to discover that their vehicle has been towed away!
June 14, 2002
Ray Zibrik
Nakusp to Salmo
We are interested to do the ride from Nakusp to Salmo in Ausust but are having
trouble in finding any information or details on this. Anyone got a good source
for the info or any first hand accounts would be greatly appreciated. We want
to stay on the rail bed as much as possible, but understand that some sections
of highway travel are required. Thanks
June 16, 2002
Brian Marsh
Re: Nakusp to Salmo
Nakusp to New Denver on the rail grade is no problem. I had not done first ½
of the Nakusp to New Denver but believe it to be in good condition. From New
Denver you can take a side tour up to Sandon. About 10 km, 6 of on old rail
grade but it has been restored. Very nice trip, Sandon is an old mining town,
and has an old museum. From Sandon you can take a short rail grade ( Abandoned
for a long time) to Payne bluff. I have done this several times, not a great
trail, but worth the ride. Payne bluff is the site of a turn of the century
spectacular picture of a train perched 1000 feet above the valley bottom. The
rails actually ran to Kaslo, but from Sandon to Kaslo the grade is either gone
or the road is on it. Best to go back to New Denver, ride the highway to Slocan
then pick up the Rail grade from New Denver to South Slocan. Sections of this
still have ballast and can be a pain to ride. From South Slocan you must take
the highway 3b to Nelson. From Nelson pick up the old Burlington Northern route
to Salmo. This section is in good shape. From Salmo you can go West to Park
siding (outside Fruitvale). At that point you will find an active railway. Hope
this helps. There is accommodation in New Denver, Nakusp, Silverton, and Slocan.
July 14, 2002
Jim Wright, hootmon@telus.net
Re: Nakusp to Salmo,
One of my co-workers cycled from Summit Lake to New Denver last July 1 with
her husband and two 13-year old boys. Route is in good shape and it took them
about two hours.
South of New Denver, you can get off the highway about midway between Silverton
and Slocan and cycle the old abandoned highway (paved) down to the lake, past
Cape Horn and into Slocan. Fascinating old highway with cliffs, tunnel and views.
Sorry, I've only walked the Slocan end, so I can't give you better directions,
but I'm told that the junction is signposted.
Re: side trip to Sandon and beyond, I cycled the Galena Trail last week from
Sandon to New Denver and return, it's in good shape and very rewarding. There
are a couple of historical signs, and a cable car crossing of the creek before
passing by an old mine ruin. And you really should visit Sandon, quite a fascinating
ghost town! K&S Trail is more demanding but still interesting. From the summit
east to Kaslo, you can get off-highway, as much of the old 1893 wagon road is
now open for cycling (and vehicles on parts) thanks to a local Rails to Trails
Society. A pamphlet I picked up at Kaslo tourist infocentres--"Rails to Trails
Kaslo to Zincton"--describes the route and access points. There are signs at
several logging roads along the highway which point you up to the old road.
In future, one might be able to cycle off-highway all the way from New Denver
to Kaslo--Galena Trail, K&S Trail and the old wagon road.
Jim
June 14, 2002
Ian Cable nohstyle@hotmail.com
multi-day riding
Hi, I'm in the initial stages of planning a trip along some portion or other of
the KVR. I've not done any multi-day riding before, but have extensive experience
with longish day-trips (mostly in the Maritimes, Ontario and Laurentians). What
I'm wondering is how many days (roughly of course) I can expect to need to ride
either the "Carmi" subdivision or alternately the "Princeton" and "Coquihala"
back-to-back? I'm sure we'll end up stopping for a day here and there, but a straight-through
figure would be great. Thanks for any estimates or advice!
June 12, 2002
Tim Robinson robinson@jetstream.net
Looking for overnight trip with Kids.
Hi. As an introduction to cycling th KVR we are looking for loop route that would
allow us to camp overnight on the trip. We would have one child on a Trail-a-bike
and one in a carrier seat. We live near Kelowna. I understand there is a 24 km
loop between Myra Station and Ruth Station. Can anyone outline this route for
us and would there be anywhere to camp on it? Thanks: Tim
June 11, 2002
Rossland Mountain Adventures
Womens Camps to Skill Clinics and Tours
Hello All - We are warming up for a great mountain biking season here in rossland
- We are working to get the chairlift going for bike access on Red Mountain and
have exciting programs from Womens Camps to Skill Clinics and Tours. As well as
new dates for our winter camps. Take a look at our website to see what option
meets your needs or that of your club at www.rosslandmtadventures.com
Looking forward to hearing from you and to all a great biking season. Rossland
Mountain Advnentures.
June 11, 2002
Richard Bouchard
Tamarack Lodge
Dan; 1st of all thanks for the website & the KVR info. We are planning a trip
on the Carmi subdivision this summer and found out that the Tamarack Lodge in
Beaverdell was closed by the Health authorities, but cabins are still available
through Brian Collins at 1-250-484-5121. The phone numbers listed for the Tamarack
Lodge are no longer in service. Thanks again Richard Bouchard
June 13, 2002
Beaverdell Hotel beaverdellhotel@telus.net
Re: Tamarack Lodge
Although Tamarack Lodge is closed there are three other places to stay in Beaverdell
besides Colin's cabins, there is Zack's Tenting and Camping (250-484-5532) which
also has four rooms, the Highland Cabins (250-484-5532) with five cabins and
of course the Beaverdell Hotel with 4 rooms (250-484-5513). Your hosts, Eugene
& Mary Ellen Katchin - Beaverdell Hotel
July 12, 2002
Janet Porowski
Tamarack Lodge
We were in Beaverdell on July 10 and saw the owner doing some work. Apparently
it has been bought by someone else and will be reopening in the future. He wasn't
sure when. We stayed at the Highland Cabins and found them quite good for the
price. (Old, but plenty of room in our two bedroom cabin with a living room,
kitchen and bathroom). We looked at the rooms in the Beaverdell and they are
very small quarters!
June 9, 2002
cameron campbell
weather in okanogan
I'm not that familiar with the weather patterns in the Okanogan Valley and am
planning to venture along the KVR on cycle from Myra to Penticton and possibly
further Question- What is the weather like between August 20 and Sept. 20? Rain,
sun? temperature? And how predictable is this time?
June 8, 2002
Pat hildebrandt
posting
Four of us plan to ddo the Castlegar-Grand Forks route at end of June, but now
I am wondering what the snow/cold will be like for camping near the summit at
Paulson then. Anyone know? Am also wondering about water enroute?
June 17, 2002
Lois & Joe - lojobo@telus.net
Re: Pat Hildebrandt - Castlegar to Grand Forks - June 8th
We started from Castlegar on June 9th and found the rock ballast pretty tough
going, but we are inexperienced and had too much "stuff" with us. We had planned
on going all the way to Kelowna, but quit at Grand Forks as it got really hot
and our load was too heavy. Hard to pull trailers through the ballast and up
to the summit at Farron. We recommend carrying as much as you can on your bikes.
We carried some water and a water purifier - lots of water just before Bulldog
Tunnel and several streams along the way. We went slow and took two days to
get to Farron - it was warm/cloudy and nice for biking - no snow. Nice downhill
run to Christine Lake. Left for Grand Forks on Thurs and it was a long hot ride
for us! We decided to quit in Grand Forks as it was sweltering hot! Saw one
bear (think Grizzly) on the way to Farron - no cougars, but heard there was
one (a big one!) around Grand Forks. We plan on doing more in cooler weather
and with less of a load. It's a lot of fun!!! Hope this helps you!
June 7, 2002
Jim Stolth backroads@uniserve.com
backroads bike shop Princeton
Just a note about the
Brookmere to Merritt section, a major slide has taken out the foot bridge at km
25.9. The only detour I can suggest is via Peterson Road, taking the south end
of that road to or from the rail grade. Jim
June 6, 2002
Simone Stoeppler sstoeppler@web.de
GPS
Hi, in September three
friends and I cycled parts of the KVR using our GPS-receivers. When we were cycling
we marked some waypoints along our way and recorded tracks from Rock Creek to
Naramata and from Faulder to Brookmere. So if anyone is interested in GPS-data
(tracks or waypoints) of these parts of the KVR, please send me an e-mail. We
really enjoyed our trip, got a lot of useful information from your book and thanks
to VistaTreks, Naramata for their great help in planning the trip and supporting
us.
Simone Stoeppler
June 4, 2002
Hans Holthuius hansholthuis@home.nl
biking in BC
Hello there, Dutchman 54 years starting his biking part from around the world
trip In Vancouver. Should like to know some biking trails. My idea from Vancouver
direction Hope, Princeton, Okanagan Falls, Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops, Clinton,
Pemberton, Vancouver. Maybe to Westview, across to Vancouver Island to Victoria
and back to Vancouver. I got about 15 days, sleeping in tent. If there are bikers
in Canada to join me I will welcome them. Will start the begin of july! Hans
May 30, 2002
cycler cycler0@hotmail.com
Bike Tours
Two Easteners are planning to cycle the from Castlegar to Hope starting the last
week of July. We have done part of the KVR a couple of years ago with a tour and
we are now eager to do self-supported camping trip. We plan on taking 2 weeks
at a "smell the roses pace". Perhaps others might be interested in joining us...
May 30, 2002
Lois & Joe lojobo@telus.net
Castlegar to Kelowna
We are planning a trip from Castlegar to Kelowna starting June 8th and have heard
that this is quite a tough ride the first part of the trip. We are wondering if
anyone has done the section from Castlegar to Grand Forks recently and what we
need to know and watch for. thanks for any info!
June 10, 2002
Pat Hildebrandt
Re: Castlegar to Hope
Sorry, I have no info on the Castlegar to Grand Forks section, and you are likely
on the trip now in any case. When you get back, I hope you will post any updates,
esp. on that section, since we are going to do it at the end of June, planning
to camp near Farron or Paulson, and wondering about possiblility of snow/very
cold weather. Is the trail still rough at the beginning? did you have any trouble
finding water enroute. Any bears? Cougars?
May 28, 2002
Lu and Ba
long distance trip
We (a couple from Germany) will come to Canada end of July and start from Vancouver
to Edmonton with our Santana tandem. We have all our stuff with us (tent and food).
We hope to do the KVR and later bike to Lake Louise and the Icefield parkway.We´ve
done the later part some yoers ago, but we hope to do this even better with our
tandem. If there are some interesting inof we would like to hear from you. Lu
and Ba
May 26, 2002
Mike Vissers vissers@netidea.com
Chute Lake to Beaverdell -
I will be travelling with a group of students from the Nelson Waldorf School from
Chute Lake Resort to Beaverdell in early June, and would love to remove the surprise
factor from the trip by receiving any updates about the status of the trail (washouts,
snow, closures, etc).
Thanks, Mike
vissersnetidea.com (250) 352 9328
May 25, 2002
K.V. Artist ( Al Reynish ) www.kvart.net
Hello all I am pleased to announce that my Kettle Valley Website has been launched.
I have been working towards this day for quite some time and have finally made
it. My website contains the following features. 1.) My Biography - My background
and history. 2.) Artwork - 16 (at this time) of my best pieces of work. 3.) Foamers
Gallery - Photos af trains. 4.) "Silent Subdivisions" The Online Magazine of abandoned
railways in Southern B.C. with a K.V.R. focus. 5.) Documents - My very detailed
K.V.R. wall maps. Coquihalla Sub. track diagrams and overview with mileposts.
6.)Bulletins/ Links Page - Observations I have personally made while on trips
or from reliable observers of the railbed. You can find the site at www.kvart.net
Enjoy it and I hope to hear from you soon.
May 25, 2002
Chrissy chrissypoo14@hotmail.com
How far can we go in 3hrs from myra Canyon?
Okay, I want to take
a youth group of about 40 people up to Myra canyon (starting on the way of KLO
road and then up) and cycle for 3hrs and then go back for another 3hrs. I need
a map or something and someone to tell me how far we would get in 3hrs. Etc...
:) I basically just need information so I can plan my trip properly. ( We will
have a lunch break) Thank you SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much to anyone who can help me with
this!!
July 1, 2002
Steve
Re: Chrissypoo
Just....ride for three hours...eat..turn around and ride back. Your ride will
be fine...
May 25, 2002
J. Reeder
single track near KVR trails?
I am planning a trip from Midway to Penticton and am wondering if there are any
single track trails that could be accessed off the KVR between Midway and Chute
Lake.
May 25, 2002
Jean Roberts stillwaters@nethop.net
Stillwaters B & B and Rentals
Please look at our website to determine the feasibility of being listed in your
book Cycling The Kettle Valley Railway. We are a two unit Bed & Breakfast on Otter
Lake, 43 km from Hwy #5A and 33 km from Princeton, approximately half way between
Brookmere and Princeton. A cyclist can leave the trail at Buck Horn Ranch 3 kms
from us or at Tulameen or where the Trail crosses Otter Valley Road. We have a
full breakfast menu and the price includes the use of the hot tub, a non powered
boat and relevant taxes: The larger Studio Suite will sleep 7, the Price is $95
per night double occupancy and the Lower Terrace Suite sleeps 4 at $85 pernight
double occupancy. We rent boats and it was one of our boat rental customers who
were staying at the Otter Lake Provincial Campsite (we are .5 km from this campsite)
who referred us to you. Thank you for your consideration,
Jean Roberts --Stillwaters B & B and Rentals
Leonard & Jean Roberts
Box 3A Comp 4 3297
Otter Lake Road Tulameen,
BC V0X 2L0
ph/fax 250-295-3728
e-mail: stillwaters@nethop.net
www.stillwatersbb.com
May 24, 2002
Shawna
Bike Tours
I'm wanting to take a KVR/C&W tour from the Okanagan to Castlegar (or vice versa).
Currently, I am living in Kamloops. I am wondering if it is possible to get a
reduced package if I were to provide my own equipment and food. Basically, I'm
looking for people to go with and not necessarily the extras. Please let me know
if you have any ideas or suggestions. Also, I am really enjoying your book. It's
very informative and exciting! Thank you, Shawna
May 24, 2002
Sean Steede steedes@shaw.ca
Brodie to Penticton
Left Car off exit 250 from Coquihalla (Brodie) - lots of parking available!!!!
No sign of any snow Brodie to Penticton. Trail in good condition and all washouts
& repairs completed due to Trans-Canada Trail upgrading (TCT). Did 76km first
day & had great service at Castle Resort in Princeton for first evening. Any kind
of food can be delivered from Princeton if you choose to use their lodging. They
also have campsites , or cabanas , or cabins , or even Teepees...basically whatever
style you want Could only find the www.pinevalleyresort.net for lodging only on
the 2nd night but noticed a few B&B's as we cycled past on the 3rd day en route
to Pentiction. Pine Valley was fantastic - large lodge , comfy duvets , really
great proprieters (Dan & Kimberly) - but a little pricey ($159) since lodge is
intended to sleep 12 horseback riders. This day was only 30 km but worked out
o.k. after doing 76 km on day one...then 30 km uphill...to be followed by day
threes 79 km (o.k. , that was our justificated for a short day two!!!). The detour
at 37.7 km West from Penticton (page 117 in 1997 edition of Dan & Sandra's book)
shows log bridge crossing - the log is now unstable and TCT crews have built a
trail access to highway 40 bridge crossing on East side of creek. The detour onto
highway 40 (at Faulder) and rejoining rail line at Trout Creek Trestle south of
Summerland is a must. Really enjoyed doing this leg in reverse compared to Dan
& Sandra's book - but book was fantastic.....used it in 1997 and again this year!
Will have to get the 2002 edition for Castlegar next year!!!
May 24, 2002
Harry Maylor hkmaylor@hotmail.com
Camp sites north of Beaverdell
Hello We are taking a small group on the KVR in July from Midway to Osoyoos and
are in the planning stages. We would like any info regarding camping areas north
of Beaverdell as far as Idabel lake maybe. We are hoping to cycle 60 to 70 km
from Kettle Valley prov. park and are not sure where that would put us. We know
that Beaverdell is 45 km from Kettle Valley prov park and Hydraulic lake is about
65km further yet. Any info is greatly appreciated. Harry Maylor
May 17, 2002
Gerald Berry
Snow conditions
Our group is off again on the trail, having done it several times before
at this time of year, and snow has never been an issue. This year appears to be
different. (My partner says no problem, so that)s why I'm asking you guys) I see
the note about the Myra section this week. Is there anyone who can advise re Castlegar
to Midway on the C&W regarding snow right now? Thanks for any information.
May 24, 2002
Sean Steede steedes@shaw.ca
Snow Conditions
Not sure of conditions on Castlegar to Midway but did Brodie to Penticton May
15-17 and now sign of snow anywhere.
May 17, 2002
Larry lcohen@islandnet.com
Are you an experienced KVR cyclist?
I have cancer and wish to cure myself by going on a journey with my 10 year old,
somewhat inactive, daughter. We are beginning to look for bikes. Any ideas for
us? (If you have good touring used bikes to rent or sell to us we would be most
grateful). We saw the resource Cycling the KVR and will start by training and
buying the book. Any highly communicative enthusiastic experienced KVR diehard
is invited to write to us to help us plan this journey. With thanks, Larry
July 4, 2002
Steve in Vancouver Webb_Stephenm@msm.com
Larry Sounds like an awesome trip....can't help with the bikes...but drop a
line when ready to 'fine tune ' a plan..lots of good (and bad) suggestions for
you. Steved
May 17, 2002
Linda Graham Linda_graham@telus.net
Princeton subdivision
We are cycling this section in August and are looking for B and B in Osprey Lake
or Bankeir region Roxy's does not seem to exist anymore. Does anyone know how
to reach them or of and alternate place in the area.
May 16, 2002
Grant McClelland hgmccle@trytel.com
Daytrip on the KVR
My wife and I are touring (by car) Alberta & BC at the end of May and would like
to bike on some of the senic portions of the rail trail. Can anyone suggest the
best locations to rent bikes and complete a nearby 40-50 Km loop on a day trip.
May 14, 2002
Betty Chaput juniper@img.net
Cycling the Rock Creek Area
Each year we get numerous cyclists through this beautiful Rock Creek area. I would
like to say we welcome them to stop at our cafe, The GOLD PAN CAFE, at the junction
of Hwy #3 and #33 for excellent food and service. We also have a full service
licensed patio out back and a beautiful park by the creek to relax and unwind.
Adjoining is the Rock Creek Centre where we have souvenirs of biking the KVR,
ice cream, t-shirts, snacks and more. If you are very weiry and the weather is
not cooperating, book a room at the Gold Dust Motel when you are in the Rock Creek
Centre. We have overnight spots along the trail just past the Rock Creek Fairgrounds
either right by the river or across by the hillside. We hope to have washrooms
facilities this year for these camping areas. Also shuttle service can be arranged
from the Rock Creek Centre. Phone 250-446-2222 We have it all, and we look forward
to your arrival.
May 6, 2002
Kirsty Gartshore
Washouts?
Does anybody have an update on the various washouts from Coalmont to Princeton,
through the canyon particularly? I know we've had a lot of precipitation recently
and I'm worried that the railbed may have changed even more. Thanks for any advice.
Kirsty Gartshore
May 15, 2002
Ray Zibrik
Re:Coalmont to Princeton
I rode this late last year, the trail washouts have all been repaired and the
trail is now continuous the whole route. The year before there were many wash
outs that required a hike through the bush to get around. The repaired trails
are a bit rough but still better than the alternative. Have fun
May 5, 2002
Pali Kivinen pali@sprint.ca
Greyhound Bus Service
I'd just like to warn any cyclists planning to take Greyhound to the Midway/Rock
creek area, that upon looking at the Greyhound.ca website, I noticed that Midway
and Rock Creek are no longer listed as destinations. So you'd better make other
plans! Here is also a link to my KVR Website. http://pages.sprint.ca/kettlevalley/KettleValley.html
May 14, 2002
Betty Chaput
Re: Pali Kivinen
In reply to your message warning cyclists about the Greyhound in the Rock Creek
Area. To correct you, the depot in Rock Creek is in full operation as usual
with Greyhound bus arrivals and departures daily. The site at Greyhound.ca did
not have posted schedule times but they have now been informed and postings
will be made available. We were still listed under locations for tickets.
May 14, 2002
Beaverdell Hotel beaverdellhotel@telus.net
Re:Greyhound Bus Service
Hi this is Beaverdell Hotel and I would like to reply to the posted message
regarding no service of Greyhound in Midway or Rock Creek. I called Greyhound
in Rock Creek (250-446-2222) and they assured me that Greyhound does stop in
Midway and Rock Creek and that Rock Creek is a ticket agent. It is located at
the Gold Pan Cafe in Rock Creek. Also would like to inform all cyclists that
Wilkinson Creek now has a brand new beautiful bridge across it so no more detour.
May 5, 2002
Steve Dawson steveorama@shaw.ca
Weather
On May 4, 2002 I cycled from McCulloch Stn. to the West end of Myra Canyon.
MOST of the railbed is clear, there is snow, deep in places in parts of the
railbed that don't receive sunshine ie. southern sections of Myra Canyon, heavily
treed areas between McCulloch and Myra FSR. It IS passable, but expect to do
some heavy pushing of your bike through several hundred meters of snow! Some
flakes were actually falling near the end of my ride (temperature was actually
plus 2 Celsius in mid afternoon- it's still pretty cold up there with cold winds).
Note we have had some hot stretches lately too...however, the forecast for May
5 evening calls for snow, possible down to Kelowna! To be honest, this ride
is rarely snow-free before July 1. In mid-May, expect some snow on the ground
and lots of puddles and mud from melting snow...
April 25, 2002
Little Dipper Campground ldcamp@img.net
e-mail address
update on e-mail address for the Little Dipper Campground
our new e-mail address is: ldcamp@img.net.
April 24, 2002
Slocan Valley Heritage Trail Society
Newsletter
The Slocan Valley Heritage Trail Society newsletter is available online at http://www.slocan-valley.org.
Select the NEWS button. The newsletter has been distributed by Canada Post this
week to all mailing addresses between South Slocan and Slocan village. I hope
that we haven't mis-represented any facts or information.
April 24, 2002
T. Rand Wilson wilyoung@coastnet.com
bike rentals - kettle valley
Since it is so expensive and nearly impossible to get bikes from victoria, b.c.
to rock creek, or other central places (by bus or train) to embark on a kettle
valley bike trip, does anyone know of a shop in the kettle valley where we can
rent a couple of decent bikes. Thanks, Randy Wilson
April 23, 2002
Dan Langford
3rd Edition - Cycling the Kettle Valley Railway
The 3rd edtion of the book is expected off the press in the next couple of weeks.
You should be able to find it in stores by the middle of May.
It can also be preordered directly from the publisher at: Rocky
Mountain Books
April 23, 2002
Kurtis Unger
Shuttle Service from Midway to Beaverdell
A couple of us from the 'peg are looking into cycling KVR in July. We're looking
at getting dropped off in Beaverdell and then parking in Midway but we need
someone to get that last guy back up to Beaverdell. Do you know the best way
to go about that, Greyhound doesn't do that route, as far as I can tell. I think
I read somewhere on your site about a fellow in the area who might be willing
to drag people from A to B, but now of course I can't find that. Thanks very
much, Kurtis Unger
April 21, 2002
Dwayne Goulet, dgoulet@bgcc.ab.ca
Trail Conditions
Looking for info
on trail conditons for mid May. I am hoping to do the trail the week of May
13-17, 2002, from Midway to Penticton. I would like to know if there is usually
snow coverage on any sections at that time of year. If so where at and for what
length of distance? Thanks for any help.
April 21, 2002
Ed Kruger info@monasheeadventuretours.com
RE-shuttles
Myra Canyon
Hello, Dan Another season is about to begin.The interest for the K.V.R.haas
sure grown in the last couple of years.I would just like to pass along a note
of the daily shuttles I WILL be doing to Myra Canyon this Summer. For $20 +G.S.T.
WE WILL shuttle to the trail and pickup 4 hours later. We have opened up a convenient
store front at 470 Cawston Ave IN Kelowna, Just up from the Grand Hotel across
from the Wine Museum. We have 40 bikes for rentals and tour. Check out our website
@ www.monasheeadventuretours.com
Thanx Ed Kruger
April 20, 2002
Alison Farquhar
Camping on the C&W
My son and I have cycled the sections of the KVR from Midway to Hope. We are now
wanting to complete our adventures by cycling the last section Castlegar to Midway.
There does not seem to be any camping sections or spots mentioned in the book
in the remote section out of Castlegar. Does anyone know if there are remote camping
sites or at least a lot of water or creeks in this section. Alison Farquhar
1997
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Dan: kettlevalleyraillway@yahoo.ca
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