Although Springtime is the best time of year to view blossoms in the Similkameen, the valley is noted for both wildflowers and beautiful gardens from March through early November. Valley blossoms range from soft fruit blossoms and stunning garden landscapes through rare and beautiful mountain and desert wildflowers, including Balsam Root, Bitterroot Lewisia, Shooting Stars and Mariposa Lilies. Here are but a few choice samples of beautiful valley blossoms.
Long, hot summers, mild winters and excellent soil combine to make the south Similkameen a paradise for growing soft fruits and ground crops. From the first cherries of late June to the last apples picked from the trees in November, valley farms and gardens are a constant source of tasty fruits, vegetables and wine.
The Keremeos Elks Rodeo held every year on the May Long Weekend attracts vistors from all over the world. From bronc riding to steer wrestling, rodeo clowns to the thrills and excitement of bull wrestling, the Elks Rodeo is a must-see for any valley visitor.
Home to rare and endangered species, the Similkameen is the perfect place for wildlife viewing. Big Horn Sheep and Mountain Goats venture right down onto busy roadsides, eagles soar overhead, and many species now rare in other parts of North America still thrive in the diverse landscape habitats that range from sagebrush meadows and wetlands to alpine wilderness. Here is just a small sampling of the many birds and animals that call the Similkameen home
While sometimes taken for granted, the Similkameen has natural and man-made landmarks unlike anything found elsewhere. From the grandeur of the Ashnola wilderness to the last remaining covered bridge and grist mill in Western Canada; from the curious Keremeos Columns to the dizzying heights of the Mascot Mine; from the Elks Rodeo and Parade to the Pepper Fest and "Taste of Our Valley"; the Similkameen never disappoints those curious for something new and unique.
The South Similkameen is blessed with mild winters that are normally on par with places like Arkansas and Missouri. While we do usually have some snowfall, it is rare to see appreciable accumulations and temperatures hover around the freezing point for most of the winter months, which last from mid-November to late February. Still, winter is a beautiful time of year with spectacular scenery to be found all around.
The ever-changing landscapes of the Similkameen Valley are both breath-taking and unforgettable. Both stark and subtle beauty lies everywhere and something new can be found around every bend and turn of the steep valley walls that hem in the hayfields, orchards, sagebrush and Ponderosa grasslands. Here are a few choice samples of the views and vistas that are the Similkameen.
The Similkameen Pow Wow, held every May Long Weekend at the Ashnola Pow Wow grounds is a rich and colourful display, rich in heritage and tradition. Native dancers from all over the North West travel to compete and renew old friendships in a spectacular mountain setting.
Now that most of the excitement is over, I've had a chance to upload photos to document the overwelming iceflow that struck the Keremeos area on Wednesday January 19th, 2005. While the Chopaka and White Bridge are open to local traffic only, the Red Bridge is closed until repairs to the Ashnola-side approach can be made. Many homes, farms and businesses have been badly damaged and a return to normal life will likely take quite some time. Check with The Similkameen News Leader Website for more news as it develops.
