Invermere: A Hidden Gem in British Columbia
Nestled in the heart of the Columbia Valley, Invermere is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With its stunning lakes, scenic trails, and vibrant community, Invermere is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of British Columbia.
Attractions
Invermere is home to a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some of the top attractions in the area:
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Kinsmen Beach: Located on the shores of Lake Windermere, Kinsmen Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach also features a playground, volleyball courts, and a concession stand.
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Pynelogs Cultural Centre: Housed in a historic building, the Pynelogs Cultural Centre showcases the work of local artists and hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.
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James Chabot Provincial Park: This park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The park also features a sandy beach and a boat launch.
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Copper Point Golf Club: Golf enthusiasts will love the Copper Point Golf Club, which features two championship courses and stunning mountain views.
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Invermere Farmers' Market: Held every Saturday during the summer months, the Invermere Farmers' Market is a great place to sample local produce and crafts.
Natural Wonders
Invermere is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural wonders in British Columbia. Here are some of the top natural attractions in the area:
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Lake Windermere: This stunning lake is the centerpiece of Invermere and offers a range of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
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Columbia River Wetlands: The Columbia River Wetlands are a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and bald eagles. Visitors can explore the wetlands on foot or by boat.
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Mount Swansea: This mountain offers some of the best views in the area and is a popular spot for hiking and paragliding.
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Radium Hot Springs: Located just a short drive from Invermere, the Radium Hot Springs are a natural hot spring that is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Festivals
Invermere is home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some of the top festivals in the area:
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Invermere Music Festival: Held every August, the Invermere Music Festival features a lineup of local and national musicians.
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Wings Over the Rockies: This annual bird festival celebrates the rich birdlife of the Columbia Valley and features a range of educational events and activities.
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Columbia Valley Arts Festival: This festival showcases the work of local artists and artisans and features live music and food vendors.
History
Invermere was established in the late 1800s as a mining town. The town was officially incorporated in 1951 and has since grown into a thriving community. The town was named after a Scottish town of the same name, which means "mouth of the river."
Conclusion
Invermere is a hidden gem in British Columbia that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to explore the natural beauty of the area or immerse yourself in the local culture, Invermere is a must-visit destination.
Sources
- "Invermere." HelloBC, www.hellobc.com/plan-your-trip/regions-and-towns/kootenay-rockies/invermere.
- "Invermere." Kootenay Rockies Tourism, www.kootenayrockies.com/towns-cities/invermere/.
- "Invermere." Tourism BC, www.travel-british-columbia.com/kootenay-rockies/invermere/.
- "Invermere Farmers' Market." Invermere Farmers' Market, www.invermerefarmersmarket.com/.
- "James Chabot Provincial Park." BC Parks, www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/james_chabot/.
- "Kinsmen Beach." District of Invermere, invermere.net/kinsmen-beach/.
- "Pynelogs Cultural Centre." Columbia Valley Arts Council, www.columbiavalleyarts.com/pynelogs-cultural-centre/.
- "Copper Point Golf Club." Copper Point Golf Club, www.copperpointgolf.com/.
- "Columbia River Wetlands." Columbia Wetlands Adventures, columbiawetlandsadventures.ca/.
- "Mount Swansea." Tourism Radium Hot Springs, www.radiumhotsprings.com/things-to-do/mount-swansea/.