2019 COWICHAN LAKE
VISITOR’S GUIDE Find adventure…just up the road
Yours to explore!
VACATION IDEAS I ACCOMMODATIONS I EVENTS & MORE LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018
1
Relax, reconnect with nature and enjoy the splendour of the Canadian outdoors. Whether you’re looking to take some time out with family and loved ones, fish in the wilds of Vancouver Island, or enjoy a unique venue for a corporate retreat, the Cowichan River Lodge is your perfect destination. Discover your perfect Cowichan Valley adventure getaway with fly fishing, hiking, kayaking, river tubing, motorsport experiences, outdoor excursions, wine tasting and more.
Contact us today to book your stay! Fishing Excursions Luxury Riverside B&B
Wilderness Retreats Outdoor Adventures
7461 Hudgrove Road, Lake Cowichan, BC t: 778-902-8147 info@thecowichanriverlodge.com l www.thecowichanriverlodge.com 2
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHANGAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDE2019 2018 LAKE
3 3
Welcome to
COWICHAN LAKE
C
owichan Lake is situated on the southern half of Vancouver Island, halfway between the island’s east and west coasts. Twenty-seven kilometers from the town of Duncan, the lake is an ideal vacation destination with its temperate weather and many beaches and trails. The Cowichan Lake area sits in the midst of a temperate rain forest, making for lots of rain in the winter and lots of sun in the summer. Known by the area’s First Nation communities as Kaatza, or “the big lake,” Cowichan Lake is 34 kilometres long and is one of the largest bodies of fresh water on Vancouver Island. The lake is home to five communities, including Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Mesachie Lake, Honeymoon Bay, and Caycuse. Port Renfrew, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is also accessible from the region by taking the
• • • •
BOOTS CLOTHING JEWELRY SPECIALTY GIFTS • RIDING APPAREL • HORSE TACK • COUNTRY GIFTS 4485-A Trans Can. Hwy, Duncan • 250-746-8122 • equineemporium@shaw.ca • Open Daily 10-5pm 4 4
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
ADVENTURE 6
COMMUNITY 10
Pacific Marine Circle Route out of Mesachie Lake. The Circle Route is a paved, meandering road beside which visitors can view ancient old growth trees, explore trails, and much more. This Visitor Guide provides information on many of the areas attractions, events, and communities, but it only begins to scratch the surface in terms of what the area has to offer. Take advantage of swimming, boating, kayaking, water skiing, and canoeing. Camp in one of the many campgrounds, or take part in one of the many events hosted by the local townships every summer. The Cowichan River has also become increasingly popular over the years. River enthusiasts often park in Lake Cowichan and ride inner tubes or inflatable rafts down to Little Beach. Lake Cowichan is the largest community at the lake, with roughly half of the area’s 7,000 residents. It has an abundance of accommodations including hotels, cottage rentals, bed and breakfasts, and plenty of camping. There are excellent stores, restaurants and a multitude of other services.
EVENTS 26
CAMPING 20-21
FUN 34
Lake Cowichan Gazette 251 Jubilee St., Duncan, B.C. V9L 1W8 or 250-748-2666 Published by Black Press 2018 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019
Publisher: Warren Goulding Editor: Andrea Rondeau Photos by: Andrea Rondeau, Lexi Bainas, and James Goldie, Sarah Simpson Sales associate: Lauri Meanley 5 5
Yours to explore
COWICHAN river Lake Cowichan welcomes boaters! However, there are a few things locals would like you to keep in mind. Be courteous and considerate. Residents, other boaters, and beach-users deserve no less. Be muffled! Remember to maintain your muffler in good working order and to disconnect muffler cut-outs or bypasses so they cannot be easily reconnected while the vessel is in operation — as per item 1,000 of the Small Vessel Amendments to the Canada Shipping Act.
“A Suite Place to Stay”
Cowichan Pet Emporium (1996) 30 newly updated suites with full kitchen. High Speed Wireless Internet | Cable TV | DD Phones, Voicemail | Guest Laundry | Accessible Suite
201 Cowichan Lake Road | Lake Cowichan | BC Tel: 250-749-6717 | Reservations: 1-800-887-1288 www.lakecowichanlodge.com | lakecowichanlodge@gmail.com
6 6
• Fish • Pet food/supplies • Otter Co-op Livestock Feed • Wood Pellets • Grooming 170A Cowichan Lake Rd. 250-749-4454
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
F
or those interested in slightly more turbulent water, the Cowichan River is a natural playground. The river flows some 30 kilometres from Cowichan Lake through the Town of Lake Cowichan and Duncan to its estuary in Cowichan Bay. The Cowichan River is designated as a Provincial Heritage River and a National Heritage River and provides opportunities for swimming, canoeing, tubing, whitewater kayaking, and rafting. It features calm waters through Lake Cowichan, but downstream there are several rapids, including those at Skutz Falls, that should be respected by recreationists. The Cowichan River is world famous for its fishing, especially fly fishing. Several types of salmon and trout
are swimming about, just waiting to strike your hook. You can access the river from several spots in the Town of Lake Cowichan, including the Duck Pond (off Park Road), Saywell Park and Central Park, Little Beach on Greendale Road and from the Trans Canada Trail or via the Skutz Falls turnoff from Highway 18, about 10 kilometres east of Lake Cowichan. Cowichan River Provincial Park, east of Lake Cowichan, is a 1,414-hectare park that stretches alongside more than 20 kilometres of the river. The river is also a hiker’s heaven, with 20-kilometres of winding trails on both sides of the river that provide many spectacular views, as well as the chance to see a variety of flora, fauna and wildlife. The trails link in several locations with the Trans Canada Trail.
2018 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019
7 7
Cowichan Lake... Vacation Capital of Vancouver Island “YOURS TO EXPLORE” …..We are home to Laketown Ranch Western Canada’s Premier Outdoor Concert Event Facility
Cowichan Lake is the second largest on Vancouver Island – 34 km in length. We are located just 26 km west of Duncan on Highway 18. Enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, waterskiing, fishing, camping, cycling, hiking, tubing, golfing, recreation sports, trestles, canyons, waterfalls, mature forest, salmon streams and summer community events.
Cowichan Lake District Chamber of Commerce
OPEN DAILY YEAR ROUND 250-749-3244 l www.cowichanlake.ca l www.info@cowichanlake.ca info@cowichanlake.ca 8 8
LAKE COWICHAN LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTEGAZETTE VISITOR’SVISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 GUIDE 2018
Travel Info Centre
I
f you have decided to vacation in the Cowichan Lake area, it is definitely worth your while to make the Cowichan Lake District Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Centre your first stop. The centre is located in the middle of the town of Lake Cowichan at 125C South Shore Rd. It has all the information you need to make your vacation the best it can be. The Centre is open every day throughout the summer, from the May long weekend through Labour Day, Sunday to Wednesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The capable staff, student employees, and volunteers will help find exactly what you need and provide you with valuable local information. During the spring the Visitor Centre is
open from Sunday to Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. In fall and winter hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Visitor Centre building is a log cabin situated in beautiful Saywell Park. Beside it is a large grass area with picnic tables and a ‘beach’ volleyball court, public washrooms with showers and shade trees, all with the Cowichan Lake and Cowichan River in view. Once inside the building, find brochures for local businesses, maps, historical information, safety and logging road tips, as, well as information about the Cowichan Lake area, the Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, and the rest of B.C.
LAKE LAKE COWICHAN COWICHANGAZETTE GAZETTEVISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDE2018 2019
You can visit www.cowichanlake.ca call 250-749-3244 or go to one of two information kiosks the centre provides in Lake Cowichan and Mesachie Lake. The first is located just outside the Visitor Centre in Lake Cowichan. The second is located next to the Mesachie Lake Skydome ball field. Get to Mesachie Lake by driving west for only a few kilometres along South Shore Road. This kiosk provides information on the Pacific Marine Circle Route along with the communities of Sooke, Port Renfrew, Victoria, Duncan, and the many communities in between. The Visitor Information Centre is managed by the Cowichan Lake District Chamber of Commerce.
99
Yours to explore
town of lake cowichan
T
he Town of Lake Cowichan is situated at the east end of Cowichan Lake along the banks of the Cowichan River, just a 20 minute drive from Duncan. The Town of Lake Cowichan was incorporated in 1944 and currently has a population of approximately 3,000 people. This number more than doubles in the summer months. Before settlers arrived, local First Nation bands from both the east and west coasts of Vancouver Island used Lake Cowichan for fishing and hunting and utilized the area’s large cedars for building canoes. European settlement of the Town of Lake Cowichan began in about 1833 when William Forest arrived in Cowichan Bay. Soon after he and James Tolmie (the older brother of a later premier of British Columbia) toured the lake with the help of the First Nation
Ikilass brothers. After assuring the provincial government that at least 12 settlers would move to the area, Forest was authorized to build a road to the town. This project was completed in 1886. The town’s ties to the logging industry began with these first settlers. The industry flourished until January 2001, when the town of Youbou saw the closure of the last mill on the lake. As you can imagine, Lake Cowichan is rich with history. For instance, the Riverside Inn, which is located just before the South Shore Road Bridge, was originally built in 1883. Other notes of interest include Dr. Stoker, who lived in Marble Bay, and had two famous brothers. One was a surgeon for the royal family, and the other was infamous Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. The 1883 Stoker and Simpson home, located at Nels
• The Friendship Park Fisheries Trail is located beside the Country Grocer store on Cowichan Lake Road. The path winds along Oliver Creek, with several bridges and benches along the way. • Central Park is on the river in downtown Lake Cowichan next to the traffic bridge. There is a fountain, picnic tables and outdoor stage. The fountain is in honour of Dr. William Carpentier who grew up in Lake Cowichan and was a physician to the astronauts of the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. Lake Cowichan’s war memorial is located beside the stage. 10 10
Beach, is now used for the University of Victoria’s Centre for Field Studies. Today, the town boasts several fine bed and breakfasts, hotels, restaurants, a grocery store with a bakery, a marina, as well as a variety of commercial outlets. If you plan to take advantage of the lake and do some fishing, water skiing, sailing, or kayaking, the marina is a great place to start. It is located at 415 Point Ideal Rd. and provides moorage, rentals and much more. You can also access the lake through the public boat launch off North Shore Road. For more local information, go to the local Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centre and staff will be happy to help you find accommodation, local attractions, activities, and more. The centre is located by Saywell Park on South Shore Road.
• The Duck Pond, officially called Riverside Park, is located on Park Road off North Shore Road. Take a relaxing dip in the Cowichan River. • Saywell Park is located at the head of the river, next to the tourist information booth in Lake Cowichan on South Shore Road. • Lakeview Park Campground is just west of town on South Shore Road. It has a beautiful public beach and day picnic area, as well as 72 campsites. See page 20 for camping details.
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
Yours to explore
Town of Lake Cowichan 75th
L
ake Cowichan’s 75 and Beyond Society is about recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Town of Lake Cowichan but there’s a lot more to it. “Honouring its past and embracing its future” is the name of the game as the enthusiastic group invites all citizens from the Cowichan Valley to celebrate with them in a year long calendar of events and future opportunities for our community. As their name indicates, this dedicated bunch of volunteers are determined to put Lake Cowichan on the map by offering plenty of events both during the year and beyond. They’ve already rounded up a whole lot of fascinating facts and stories about Lake Cowichan and put them on a web page of their own: www.75and beyond.com/lake-stories. Check it out. Want to know why an area is called The Hundred Houses? To
learn about the Lake Cowichan serpent? You’ll find it there. You’ll find Lynne Bowen’s book, Those Lake People, an article from a website called From Camp to Community, the history of the Cowichan Lake Research Station, and information about a UFO sighting at the Lake, the grand opening of Centennial Hall, and the founder of Gestalt Therapy: Fritz Perls. Coming up this year are big events on Heritage Days (the Victoria Day long weekend), and a giant community garage sale the following weekend. The 75th anniversary group plans to be part of Cowichan Lake Days in June, as well as Canada Day celebrations. Then, a huge celebration is planned for Aug. 16-18 that will involve many members of the community. Sporting events, arts and culture events, shows and entertainment, and lots more are in the works, right up to the end of December.
TIPTONS GAS
BAR
ale y Femwnediendl r O eF al m Fe
Home Women & of Wh Workshop eels s
(2007)
14 North Shore Road, Lake Cowichan
Gas • Diesel • Boat Gas • Confections • Bait • Ice • Propane Exchange OPEN Monday – Saturday: 5 am – 10 pm Sunday: 7 am – 8 pm
Auto Repair and Auto Detailing
5275 TCH/Chaster Road - Duncan CowichanAutoRepair.com CowichanAutoRepair@gmail.com
250-749-6133 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018
1-778-422-3100 11 11
Yours to explore
COWICHAN LAKE
I
f you’re looking for a place to cool off, while surrounded by a warm, beautiful landscape, Cowichan Lake is the place for you. Visitors come to the Cowichan Lake area for many reasons, but mostly it’s to play on or in the water. Every summer boaters, swimmers, waterskiers, kayakers, canoeists and even sailors head for the water to cool off and have some fun in the sun. There’s plenty of room on the 34-kilometre long lake to accommodate many recreational uses. So, whether you fancy water skiing, a relaxing day of lake fishing or perhaps a group cruise of the lake, look no further than the two marinas on Cowichan Lake for easy access to the water. The Cowichan Lake Marina is located in Lake Cowichan, off Point Ideal Road. Just turn right after the Visitor Information Centre. The marina provides 115 moorage slips, including some capable of accommodating boats up to 55 feet. There are boat rentals, including deck boats and bow riders. A boat launch ramp, fuel, holding tank pump out, a convenience store are also on site. A number of stores in the communities around the lake sell supplies for your day on the water.
89A South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan 250-932-2220 • www.swordfernboutique.com eco friendly clothing and gifts
12 12
LAKE LAKE COWICHAN COWICHANGAZETTE GAZETTEVISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDE2018 2019
Cowichan Lake
25% OFF
ALL NON-RX SUN GLASSES
Welcome to Lake Cowichan
Gateway to the Great Outdoors Celebrating 75 Years!
177 Station St., DUNCAN www.stationstreeteyecare.ca
BUY ONE PAIR GET 2ND PAIR FREE MOST CE INSURAN PLANS BILLED DIRECTLY
Come and enjoy nature at its best!
June 8
Lake Days Steak Dinner
250-597-8191
“ You’re on the right track with Station Street Eyecare” EYE EXAM REFERRALS LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
$7.50 now
on sale
Mayor and Council Town of Lake Cowichan
LAKE LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2018 2019
13 13
Community Events Canada Day Celebrate July 1 at Mesachie Lake, Honeymoon Bay, Youbou and Lake Cowichan. Ask at the tourist information centre for details on specific events. Lake Days Head to Lake Cowichan on June 8-9 for a pancake breakfast and parade on Saturday morning, then head to the fair grounds for food and merchant vendors, a beverage garden and kids’ activities. On Sunday, join the Kinsmen for the Ducky Derby. Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival June 14-16 at Laketown Ranch.
Honeymoon Bay Day July 20, pancake breakfast 8 a.m., parade 10 a.m., show and shine car show, live entertainment and kids games. Youbou Regatta Aug. 10 at Arbutus Park. Parade (blink and you’ll miss it), pancake breakfast, Clarence Whittingham Memorial Quarter Mile Swim, boat and swimming races, watermelon eating contest and more. Windfest 2019 Kiteboarding Festival at Nitinat Lake, July 26-28. All day. Business showcase (fall) Santa Parade (December)
Summer 2019 Cowichan Lake Recreation
Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom suites Delicious Chef prepared meals Housekeeping & heavy laundry Safety, Security & Friendship Daily planned activities We are pet friendly!
Swim Lessons: Three Sets of Red Cross Swim Lessons, July 2 - Aug 28, Arbutus Park Free Drop-in Parks Program: July 2 - Aug 30, Mornings for ages 6 - 12, Afternoons for ages 3 - 5 Mon, Wed, Fri at Lake Cowichan Little League Park | Tues at Mesachie Lake Skydome | Thurs at Honeymoon Bay Hall Canada Day: Monday, July 1, Mesachie Lake Hall & Skydome, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. FREE Entertainment, bouncy castle, concession, crafts, games and a visit from the local fire department. FREE admission. Honeymoon Bay Day: Saturday, July 20, Honeymoon Bay Hall, 8:00 a.m. start FREE Pancake breakfast, parade at 10:00 a.m., car show, live entertainment, kids games, crafts, and concessions. Youbou Regatta: Sat, Aug 10 – Pancake breakfast sponsored by YVFD, 8:00 a.m. | Parade 10:30 a.m. Youbou Hall to Arbutus Park followed by swim races, canoe races, volleyball tournament, and tons of fun for the whole family. FREE admission. Concession open from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Summer Hockey School with Steve Lingren Head Instructor Ages 6 - 10: Aug 6 - 10 | Ages 11 - 14: Aug 12 - 16 | Power Skating for ages 6+: Aug 12 - 16 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COWICHAN LAKE RECREATION PROGRAMS Call Cowichan Lake Recreation at: 250.749.6742 www.twitter.com/mycvrd @mycvrd facebook.com/mycvrd Visit: www.cvrd.bc.ca www.facebook.com/mycvrd
14
Call today for a Tour & Tea! 280 Government Street, Duncan
www.sherwood-house.com
EAT DRINK ENJOY CASUAL FAMILY DINING 109 South Shore Rd. Lake Cowichan 250 932 2221 • www.jakesatthelake.com jakesatthelake.com
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
250-715-0116
Yours to explore
Local history Kaatza Station Museum and Archives
E
xplore the many displays and wonders the Kaatza Station Museum has to offer. Here is where you will find historical information on the area’s extensive logging industry, the railway, and the families who forged a community out of temperate rainforest wilderness. Kaatza museum staff will introduce you to the many exhibits, which include a pioneer life display with a 12-foot-high mural depicting life in Cowichan Lake in the 1920s; the John Padjen Room illustrating the history of the IWA in Cowichan; as well as a store, a post office, a mine shaft and more.
The museum consists of three buildings: the main building (or old train station) where the majority of the museum’s collection and gift shop items are on display; the Bell Tower School where you will find a collection of photographs by Wilmer Gold; and the Mesachie Lake school building with a workshop for volunteers and more display items. Outside the museum f rail and logging find i industry machinery, i including a 1927 Plym mouth locomotive and a s speeder. The museum is located 1 South Shore Rd., in 125 L Cowichan. Lake Information: Kaatza Station Museum on Facebook Email: kaatzamuseum@ shaw.ca Phone 250-749-6142
Museum Fast Facts May long l weekend k d to June 30: Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 1 to end of Sept. long weekend: Sunday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. End of September to Nov. 30: 7 days a week 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 to March 21: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 21 to May long weekend: Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• The John Padjen Room: Illustrating the history of the International Woodworkers of America in Canada • The Mill Room: Telling the story of the three mills that were in Cowichan Lake area • The Wilmer Gold collection: Consisting of many large format photos of the logging industry in the 1930s and 1940s • The Harry Wright Library: Containing over 600 books about railways, both their history and operation • A 1949 era classroom display • A fine collection of antique logging equipment, including power saws and mill equipment • Extensive archives, chronicling the history of the Cowichan Lake area people. It includes newspapers dating back to 1921, maps, and various other historical articles. • 1927 Shay locomotive, a log car, a 1916 caboose, a 1927 Plymouth locomotive and a speeder.
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
15 15
Yours to explore
Local beaches L akeview Park, Lake Cowichan Large sandy beach area with little shade. No dogs are allowed on the beach. The Town-owned facility is a kilometre west of town on South Shore Road. Drive past the arena and look for the sign on your right. Riverside Park, Lake Cowichan Quaint park on the river known to locals as the Duck Pond: picnic tables, washrooms and a playground, sandy beach and floating dock. Turn onto
SEE THE EXHIBITS IN A 100 ACRE LIVING MUSEUM AND THE NEW INTERACTIVE EXHIBIT FORESTS FOREVER
North Shore Road and turn left at Park Road or take the footbridge across the river into downtown Lake Cowichan. No lifequards on duty but the river flows slowly. Little Beach, Lake Cowichan Small but popular swimming hole on the Cowichan River. Turn onto Greendale Road, follow it for about half a kilometre. Located on the right past the houses. Use caution, the river moves swiftly.
Celebrating 38 Years in Business! Your one stop shop for all your art supplies, models, trains & much more
Locally Owned & Operated. BC FOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE www.bcforestdiscoverycentre.com WWW.BCFORESTDISCOVERYCENTRE.COM
SCOTT’S
TOYS & HOBBIES
2892 DRINKWATER ROAD, DUNCAN, BC. V9L-6C2 (ON THE TRANS CANADA HWY.)
INFORMATION (250) 715-1113
16 16
250-748-2443
#68 Station St., Downtown Duncan LAKECOWICHAN COWICHANGAZETTE GAZETTEVISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDE2019 2018 LAKE
Spring Beach, Meade Creek Pleasant wooded park with washroom and picnic tables. Named for its natural springs that flow year round. Follow North Shore Road and turn left on Meade Creek Road and follow it until you get to the forest plantation, look left for a yellow gate. Park along the road and the beach is a short walk in. Price Park, Youbou Fern-lined walking trails lead to secluded, natural beaches. Swordfern Creek, an important spawning ground for fish, flows quietly through the park. From Youbou Road turn left onto Miracle Way opposite the ‘Welcome to Youbou’ sign. The park is at the end of Miracle Way.
South Shore Road to Mesachie Lake, turn right on to Bear Lake Road and follow it to the end, where it turns into Fish Road. At the end of Fish Road you will find the park.
a swimming area surrounded by a log boom and a kids’ play area. Drive through Honeymoon Bay, turn right at the fork in the road onto Walton Road. The park is at the end of Walton Road.
Lily Beach, Honeymoon Bay Five minutes west of Mesachie Lake, turn right on Beach Drive and turn into the parking lot. You can only access the beach via a short trail. Plenty of shade and there’s a small dock. No boat access is allowed.
Arbutus Park, Youbou Drive through Youbou until you reach the west entrance to Elder Crescent. Arbutus Park is the only life-guarded park on the lake. It has a beach, dock, slide, diving board, washrooms and picnic area.
Central Beach, Honeymoon Bay Heather Campsite Turn right onto Park Road from South Located on the west end of Cowichan Shore Road. The beach is below the park- Lake, this campsite has a nice sandy ing lot. Washroom facilities are at the top beach, a boat launch, and a scenic view. of the parking lot. It can be reached by driving about 38 Bear Lake Park, Mesachie Lake kilometres down either side of the lake, Small park set under mature trees com- Gordon Bay Park, Honeymoon Bay through either Youbou or Honeymoon plete with picnic tables, lawn area, fishBeach access is available to the pubBay, via a gravel road. ing dock and boat launch. Drive west on lic. The beautiful pebble beach offers
LAKECOWICHAN COWICHANGAZETTE GAZETTEVISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDE2019 2018 LAKE
17 17
Yours to explore
Camp sites
T
here are 800 sites at campgrounds along the 75 kilometres around Cowichan Lake. The main camping season extends from the long weekend in May to the Thanksgiving Day weekend in October. Gordon Bay Provincial Park Gordon Bay, further west along the lake past Honeymoon Bay, is a large provincial campground on the shore of a small bay. It has many amenities, making it one of the most popular in the B.C. Parks system. There are 126 campsites with water on tap. Gordon Bay has a large sandy swimming beach with a floating boundary of large boom logs, an amphitheatre, an adventure playground for children and a shower house that is wheelchair accessible. Reservations at the park are recommended, especially for summer camping. Call B.C. Parks at 1-800-6899025, 250-749-3415 (local number)
or visit www.discovercamping.ca for information. Lakeview Park Campsite (Municipal) Lakeview Park, located just west of Lake Cowichan, has 69 sites, 28 of which have lake views. Wireless internet is available and there are free children’s programs and family movie nights. Be sure to book your boat moorage beforehand, online, otherwise you’re likely to find yourself out of luck. For more details or reservations call 250-749-6681 (from June to August call 250-749-3350) or visit their website online at www.town. lakecowichan.bc.ca/camping.shtml. Beaver Lake Resort (Private) Just west of Lakeview, this private resort features 50 camping RV and tent sites, with full connections to hydro. There is also a lakefront cabin for rent,
laundry facilities, free hot showers, flush toilets, water craft rentals, a horseshoe pit, guest programs and crafts for the younger kids. Call 250-749-7792 for rates. TimberWest Sites (4) Forestry TimberWest sites are located at various locations around Cowichan Lake. Firewood will be available onsite while campfires are permitted by the Coastal Fire Centre for $8/ level wheel-barrow load. Fees are collected daily by an attendant. Call 250-749-3873 for more information. 1. Heather Campsite Located on the west end of the lake there are 47 camping sites. The 12 beach sites are very popular, although they require campers to carry in all gear and supplies. Water is available from taps, but it should be boiled before drinking. Garbage can be disposed of onsite.
ENJOY YOUR STAY! We welcome visitors to our area Open Sunday Thursday Openat11Noon a.m. daily, 12 to noon Sunday 11 am Friday and Saturday
Independent Retirement Living with Services The Camelot, Victoria | Wedgwood House, Duncan Hawthorne Place, Qualicum | Stevenson Place, Comox
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 210 Lake Cowichan, 15 North Shore Road
18 18
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 2018
Suites Available: Call TODAY to book a tour! Licensed Strata Property Manager
Delicious Chef prepared meals, 24 hr Emergency response House keeping & Your linens refreshed Great in-town locations Short walk to shops & services
250-737-1435
www.novapacific.ca www.novapacific.ca
2. Kissinger Lake Campsite Located on the shores of a small lake stocked with rainbow trout, Kissinger has 26 sites among trees, eight with a lake view, and is on the road to Nitinat. 3. Caycuse Campsite Shady during the hot summer weather, Caycuse is on the south side of the lake with 26 sites among the forest, some with lovely lake views. Boiling the water is advised. 4. Little Shaw Campsite Northwest toward Youbou on the site of an old log dump at Little Shaw Creek, this small site has five camping spots, all of which are carry-in. Grand Getaways Property Management (3) Also located at various sites around Cowichan Lake, with waterfront sites available for a premium. Firewood is available when fires are permitted by the Coastal Fire Centre. There are pit toilets — just to be on the safe side, make sure to take your own bathroom tissue. Quiet time is from 11 p.m., gate is closed at 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. Visitors are asked to leave by 8 p.m. Sites are family oriented. An onsite host will collect fees on a daily basis. Call 250-7011976 for more info or go to www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca
1. Maple Grove Campsite Another rustic camp that has 61 campsites; some in the open but many under tall trees with lovely southern views across the lake. Four sites are walk-in. There is a paved boat launch (for boats no longer than 14 ft.) and a gently sloped gravel beach for sunning and swimming. It is also a good hiking area. 2. Pine Point Campsite A rustic site, with 58 sites. There are beautiful views across the lake, a paved boat launch and a beach of small gravel. There are no water taps or pumps, so campers should bring their own water. In order to keep from attracting bears, there are no garbage cans, so bring strong black garbage bags to carry refuse away from the site. 3. Nixon Creek Campsite On the south side of the lake and is heavily treed with an older stand; a West Coast feel. The narrow road leading down into the site is about 1.5 kilometres. The campground is a Forest Service site with 48 campsites, a gravel boat launch and a scenic walking trail along the beach. There are no garbage cans or water on tap, so be prepared to carry water in and garbage out.
RE/MAX of Lake Cowichan Home Town Experts with a World of Experience®
Sandy Stinson
81 Cowichan Lake Road, Lake Cowichan
Mobile: 250.710.0040 250.749.6000
remaxlakecowichan.com www.remaxlakecowichan.com
LAKE LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018
19 19
LAKE COWICHAN’S
Out door living, cooking and decorating
Camping supplies
Paint made in Canada
Kitchen wares and gadgets
Water toys and boating supplies
Gardening supplies
All ese and so much more STORE HOURS MON - FRI 8-6 • SAT 8-5 • SUN 9-4 •STAT HOLIDAYS 9-5
20
LAKE LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2018 2019
PROFESSIONAL SERIES ’s ustry d n I The ngest Stro cking! De Vinyl
Call us first for: Vinyl Decking, Custom Glass and Aluminum Railings
2853 Roberts Rd., Duncan 250-748-1418
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
21 21
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018
22 22
Yours to explore
Farm markets
T
he Cowichan Lake area is home to a summer market: the Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market. The Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market features a wide variety of homemade and artisan goods, including wild-crafted herbal, medicinal and personal care products, twig and barn board furniture, candles, soaps, pickles, pies and fresh locally-sourced produce, all in a rustic “frontier town” setting. The Outdoor Market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Thanksgiving. It’s located at 10063 South Shore Rd., across from the Honeymoon Bay Fire Hall.
Saturdays 10:00 am -2:00 pm May 18 - Sept. 14 All products locally produced.
A little bit of everything: • Bread, pies, tarts, muffins, scones • Jams, jellies, pickles, preserves • Children’s fashions • Essential oils, creams, soaps, candles • Handiwork – quilts, dish cloths, stove towels, alpaca products • Homegrown vegetables from A–Z • Assorted fruits in season • Eggs & garden produce • Seedlings & planter baskets
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
23 23
20 MINUTES EAST OF LAKE COWICHAN
VISIT
Duncan
163 Kenneth street | 250-748-7467
Mill Bay
121-2720 Mill Bay Road, Mill bay 250-733-0999 www.sheer-essentials.ca 24 24
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
• Milk, dark, white, vegan and sugar free chocolate selections made in store. • Candies, fudge and ice-cream novelties. • Pop, juice and bottled water. • Hardy Buoys smoked salmon and jerky.
• Corporate and bulk orders.
Yours to explore
DUNCAN T
he City of Duncan is the hub of the Cowichan Valley. There are many fun and interesting things to do in the city, including taking a walk around the downtown core and visiting the many shops and restaurants, wandering through the Duncan Farmers Market on Saturday morning, and visiting the Cowichan Valley Museum and Archives located in the old train station on Canada Avenue. Duncan has the world’s largest collection of outdoor totems, and you can take either a guided tour or follow the yellow footprints and see them on your own. Just north of the city is the tourist information centre, located at the BC Forest Discovery Centre, where you can ride the train and learn all about the area’s forestry past. Special events take place throughout the summer, including the 39 Days of July, which offers free outdoor entertainment in Charles Hoey Park and Duncan’s City Square from June 28 to Aug. 5.
Nichiren Peace Center
HOURS: MON. TO FRI.
Your Buddhist Community
Meditation on Wednesdays & Thursdays Sunday Discovery Service Life Skills Counselling Website: www.VIRetreats.com Text & Phone: 250.710.7594 e-mail: peace@viretreats.com
8am
TO
4:30pm
AUTO GLASS and UPHOLSTERY
For FAST DEPENDABLE Private & ICBC Auto Glass Repairs, make us your
FIRST CHOICE!
2986 Boys Rd. Duncan
2018 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019
(250) 748-4466 25 25
Sunfest
Yours to explore
S
unfest Country Music Festival, which attracts tens of thousands of people each year, moved in 2016 to its new home at Laketown Ranch, a sprawling 172acre site in Lake Cowichan’s backyard that includes parking, camping grounds and the largest permanent outdoor stage west of Cavendish, PEI. This year’s festival headliner features none other than Jason Aldean, one of country’s biggest stars. Other big names include Terri Clark, Washboard Union, Kip Moore, Michael Ray, Aaron Goodvin, Maren Morris, Mitchell Tenpenny, Andrew Hyatt, Randy Houser, Cody Johnson and Shawn Austin. There’s plenty more talent, too. The festival runs from Aug. 1-4. Tickets and festival passes are available through Sunfest’s website, www. sunfest.com. Since the music doesn’t get started until around 4 p.m. each day, festival goers are encouraged to come visit one of the communities around the Lake.
Proudly Serving the Cowichan Valley
Welcome to Lake Cowichan! Celebrating 2 years of ownership of Dot’s Shoes!
We hope you enjoy our beautiful and vibrant area!
Alistair MacGregor MP // COWICHAN-MALAHAT-LANGFORD 1-866-609-9998 Alistair.MacGregor@parl.gc.ca
26 26
DENISE ALLAN
250.749.3721 | Open Daily 42 South Shore Rd. • Lake Cowichan, BC
http://alistairmacgregor.ndp.ca/ AlistairMacGregor.ca
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
• Blundstone • Birkenstock • Manitobah Mukluks • Leather Bags & Wallets • Baggalini • Stance Socks • Native Shoes • KUMA Sunglasses
Yours to explore
youbou
Y
oubou, pronounced “yoo bow”, is a scenic village with a permanent population of about 900 people. Located on the north side of Cowichan Lake, it is a popular spot for summer residents and has many vacation cottages, as well as a good beach front park for day use. To get there, drive for about 15 minutes along the Youbou Highway — keep right at the Lake Cowichan welcome sign where Highway 18 ends. The older part of the village stretches for about five kilometres along the shoreline, with newer developments east of town along the north arm of the lake. The welcome to Youbou sign was hand
EXHIBITS:
Logging Display Railway Display Early 1900’s Living On The Lake
OUTDOOR DISPLAYS 1927 Shay Locomotion - 1916 Wooden Boxcar - 1918 Wooden Caboose - Diesel locomotive - Speeder Trailer Gift Shop featuring Local History Books
Hours: Winter Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm Summer Hours: Everyday 10am - 4pm Email: kaatzamuseum@shaw.ca Phone: 250-749-6142
carved by a local resident and its attractive flower garden is voluntarily planted and maintained by a Youbou family. Youbou hosts the Youbou Regatta annually in August. Youbou has one of the ball parks at the lake. To get to the Little League Park, turn left off Bremner Road, which is just before the first store. It has a baseball field, playground and horseshoe pitches. The Youbou Lanes bowling alley is a great place to go for a change of pace. It’s the only known sanctioned hand set 10-pin bowling alley in Canada, built in the mid ’50s. It also serves as a mini museum with many historical photos decorating the walls. It’s open Saturdays in the summer. Phone 250-745-3431 for recorded hours of operation or visit www. cvrd.bc.ca for more information. West of Youbou a gravel road continues around the lake. Remember to drive with the lights on and give logging trucks the right of way on bridges.
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
27 27
Yours to explore
Honeymoon Bay
H
oneymoon Bay, whose inviting name seems to promise newfound pleasures, is located on the south side of Cowichan Lake. It can be reached by following South Shore Road for approximately 10 minutes west of Lake Cowichan. Visitors can also arrive by way of the Pacific Marine Circle Route via Port Renfrew to Mesachie Lake (page 31), a distance of about 55 kilometres. Honeymooners and the rest of the world’s campers, boaters, golfers, history buffs and nature lovers can find much in and around the town to enjoy. Central Park stretches north from Honeymoon Bay Hall through a grassy field graced by children’s seasonal artwork banners, past the carved wooden welcome sign across the road to a swimming beach at the waterfront. Near the hall is Memory Lane, where special trees have been planted to honour lost family and friends. The hall is the heart of the town and the roadside reader board out front lists a wide variety of enjoyable local happenings hosted by its active community society. It is open for bookings. There is a meeting room whose walls hold historic murals
28 28
by an artist of stature, George Jenkins, as well as a large panel painted by old time resident Vince Allen that displays scientific but still beautifully painted diagrams of the wildflowers found in the Wildflower Reserve west of town. A popular annual summer event includes Bay Days, which happens in July this year. This is a family fun event with kids activities, lawn bowling and many more events for all ages. Visitors are welcome to join the fun in this community festival. Each Saturday from spring to fall there is an outdoor market (page 23). Walton Road leads to Gordon Bay Provincial Park complete with woodland trails, camping, swimming, and a boat launch. West of the town is the scenic March Meadows Golf Course, voted the best nine-hole golf course on Vancouver Island. Lastly, where the pavement ends, is a complex crossroads nicknamed Chicken Joe’s. From there it is possible to continue around the lake, but remember it’s a logging road, headlights are mandatory and logging trucks have the right of way. For more information on the Wildflower Reserve and the history of the Honeymoon Bay community, visit www.cowichanlake.ca/2014/05/honeymoon-bay/
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
Bay Day T
he Annual Honeymoon Bay Day is July 20. Sponsored by Honeymoon Bay Community Society, Cowichan Lake Recreation, Honeymoon Bay Fire Department and Island Savings Credit Union, there will be family fun activities for everyone. It all starts with a pancake breakfast, followed by a parade at 10 a.m., show and shine car show, live entertainment, games for kids, crafts, concession and more. Visitors are welcome. Head to the Honeymoon Bay Hall to check it out. It’s located at 10022 Park Dr.
LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
29 29
Yours to explore
mesachie LAKE
M
esachie Lake is a tiny village located about five minutes west of Lake Cowichan on South Shore Road. Visitors can also arrive by way of the Pacific Marine Circle Route via Port Renfrew, a distance of approximately 55 kilometres. In Mesachie Lake you will find it’s like stepping back in time, with two peaceful streets lined by old company homes beautifully painted and maintained, several with verandahs overlooking colourful gardens surrounded by picket fences. At the north end of Forestry
30
Road is a provincial government forestry research station where island conifers are grown and studied in order to produce strong stock from which quality seeds can be harvested. A natural tree museum made up of a variety of heritage trees can be toured in a leisurely walk along the main road and throughout the town area. Tree locations and varieties can be found using a map on a large sign located on Bear Road. Amenities include a community hall and ball field — called the Skydome — where the local area
firefighters host a huge slo-pitch tournament and dance every Father’s Day weekend, June 15 and 16 in 2019, to raise money for muscular dystrophy research. There is a small boat launch and park at the end of Bear Road, and there is a channel that connects Bear Lake to Cowichan Lake, making it excellent for kayakers. There is also a tiny post office if you are of mind to send a post card home with an unusual name on the post mark. For more information about local area history, go to www. mesachielake.ca
LAKE LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2018 2019
Circle Route
T
he Cowichan Lake area is a well connected tourist destination, with recent upgrades to the Pacific Marine Circle Route improving matters significantly. The Circle Route is a series of highways and roads that start at Victoria, and goes north through Mill Bay, Cobble Hill, and Duncan. The road then goes west through to the Cowichan Lake area, and then south to the coastal community of Port Renfrew. The road then winds back east through Sooke to Victoria. In addition to linking traveling tourists to the Cowichan Lake area from other Island tourist destinations, the Circle Route provides access to the tourist-spot-filled road out to Port Renfrew, starting near the community of
Mesachie Lake, a few kilometres west of Lake Cowichan. There is signage to direct people new to the area. But remember to gas up before you leave, as there aren’t any service stations until you reach Sooke. After about 29 kilometres of traveling south of Mesachie Lake, one will reach the Harris Creek Spruce Tree, an old growth forest, with one particularly large tree singled out for tourists to view in closer detail. The big tree is circled with a wooded platform you can walk around. There are also two well-maintained beautiful campsites next to small lakes along the road, including Lizard Lake, at 38 kilometres from Mesachie Lake with 28 campsites, and Fairy Lake, LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
at 49 kilometres from Mesachie Lake, with 36 campsites. Logging trucks can be expected on the road, so drivers are cautioned to watch out for them. Once one reaches the coastal community of Port Renfrew, there are a myriad of sites to enjoy. The area is world-renowned as a prime place for studying marine life, with tidal pools trapping sea life for observation. Strange geophysical shapes are carved into the area coastline, with lots of photograph opportunities being provided. There are also various hiking trails and lots of ocean fishing opportunities in the area. 31 31
Cowichan Lake Legends K
Scarlett’s
Second Hand Boutique
facebook real life instagram
40 South Shore RD, (next to the Post Office)
250 510 7742
BUTLER LOCKSMITHING & PECULIAR SHOP Used Books; Lock Service; Homemade Jewelry; Pet Food; and More! 122A South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan
250-932-8422 Anglican Church ANGLICAN St. Christopher and St. Aidan 70 Cowichan Ave. W., Lake Cowichan
250-510-6396 www.cowichananglican.ca
Sunday Services at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Eric Stephanson
32 32
eep your eyes open while enjoying the clear waters of Cowichan Lake, as you might just catch a glimpse of the Stin-qua, Cowichan Lake’s very own Ogopogo-like serpent. For years residents have claimed they have seen this mysterious creature cruising the lake’s waters. The Kaatza Station Museum files report the creature to be “50 feet long, with a very large head, furious eyes and enormous mouth and teeth. He is seen periodically swimming about the lake seeking whom he can devour.” It is believed that there are underground tunnels between Cowichan Lake and Port Renfrew which allow the creature to stay elusive. Over the years there have been many sightings of the Stin-qua, though none have been able to prove its existence. The Leader, Lake Cowichan’s newspaper in the 1930s, reports that local residents were anxious to come across the creature and photograph or capture it so as to have proof of this “fish story”. However, this legend did not begin with the first European settlers in the area. The First Nations who used Cowichan Lake and the surrounding area as hunting and fishing grounds also have stories aobut the stin-qua. Legend says that three young women were swallowed whole, boat and all, by the serpent when returning home from taking their husbands to Bald Mountain to hunt for the day. You might also want to watch for signs of Tzun-a-quat, or Mesachie man, when hiking local trails or camping in local campgrounds. Mesachie Man is supposed to have been half man and half gorilla, and it is said he escaped from a sailing vessel that went down off the west coast of Vancouver Island. The First Nations in the area held Mesachie Lake in awe and parts of the lake were taboo because it was thought these areas were his territory. Many people claim to have seen or heard this creature with at least one account of a local resident hearing blood-curdling yells and seeing an evil looking face with a pronounced brow and prognathous jaw. Mesachie Man has drawn attention from around the world, and many have written about him, including John Bindermangel, who included the mysterious man-like creature in his book North America’s Great Ape, the Sasquatch. LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
Yours to explore
GolF: March Meadows
M
arch Meadows Golf Club at Honeymoon Bay starts with a modest par-three first hole and ends with as challenging a finishing hole as you’ll find anywhere. Considered one of the best nine-hole courses on Vancouver Island, it is the home course of the late pro golfer Dawn Coe-Jones, who had an impressive career
on the Ladies Professional Golf Association tour. It is not an overly long course, at 3,259 yards over 9 holes from the blue tees, but don’t think you get off easy. You have to watch out for the many sand bunkers on this challenging course. Accuracy is key on these rolling and treed fairways. The sixth hole, a sharp dog leg par four, is a perfect
example. Sutton Creek meanders through the property and comes into play on several holes, most notably the ninth. The course, which opened in late 1970, is built on the old hay meadow of the historic farm that had been established by pioneers Henry and Edith March at the turn of the century, thus the name, March Meadows.
Dawn Coe-Jones
Robert Fortunat R.D. Providing Denture Care EXCLUSIVELY at his Festubert Street location for 29 years!
• Family Owned & Operated • Full and Partial Dentures • Implant and Overdentures
• Certified BPS Care • New Patients Always Welcome • No Referrals Necessary
Duncan Dental has been in business for 66 years. Our owner, Robert Fortunat, has been a Denturist for 29 years in the Valley, and performs all services personally. Committed to the tradition of quality service, Robert believes that the highest compliment his patients give him is the referral of family and friends! 100-321 Festubert St., Duncan BC
(250) 746-6241
A LOCAL, FAMILY RUN BUSINESS Our current owner, Robert Fortunat joined Duncan Dental in 1990. In 1992, he purchased Duncan Dental and changed the name to Duncan Dental 1992 LTD. Today, our business continues as a family run operation with Robert’s wife Dawn and daughter Robyn (who created the Denture Dude Logo). LAKE COWICHAN COWICHAN GAZETTE GAZETTE VISITOR’S VISITOR’S GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2018 LAKE
33 33
Yours to explore
Youbou regatta O
ne of the busiest days of the summer happens at Arbutus Park in Youbou on
Aug. 10. The Youbou Regatta boasts the shortest parade in the world, starting from the Youbou Hall to Arbutus Park at 8 a.m., but it’s certainly one of the most enthusiastic.
34 34
It’s preceded by a pancake breakfast. Following the parade, Arbutus Park comes alive with activity. The first splash hits the water with the Clarence Whittingham Memorial Quarter Mile Swim. A tugboat owned by Whittingham — an iron vessel for towing logs on the lake, takes the swimmers
a quarter mile out and they swim back to the dock. This is followed by kids and adult swimming races, watermelon eating contest, three-on-three volleyball, chalk art contest, whistle splash and flip triathlon and canoe races. A BBQ concession runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 2018
Laketown Shakedown R
ap legend Snoop Dogg, Grammy-award nominees Incubus, ska punk group Sublime With Rome, and all star pop band Smash Mouth are leading an amazing lineup at Laketown Shakedown this Canada Day weekend, June 28-30. Of course, the organizers aren’t the only ones excited that Snoop Dogg is coming to Lake Cowichan and everyone is making plans to spend June’s final weekend at Laketown Ranch. Camping, weekend passes, and single day tickets are all on sale now. Supported by Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia, Laketown Shakedown 2019 has been designed to appeal to music lovers of all ages. In order to make your plans, look at this schedule: On June 28, Jesse Roper, Stickybuds, The Boom Booms, and Mt Doyle will take the stage. The big show Saturday, June 29 sees Incubus as the headline act, along with Black Pistol Fire, Five Alarm Funk, Louise Burns, The Sorority, and Goldfish. To round out a super weekend, Sunday’s spectacular features Snoop Dogg, Sublime with Rome, Smash Mouth, DJ NuMark, Skiitour, Grandson, DJ Murge, Illvis Freshly, Bend
Sinister, The Faceplants, and Phono Pony. Look for live music across three stages in this outdoor amphitheatre, plus a festival village with food and all the services you need. For tickets and more information, head to www.laketownshakedown.com
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 2018
35 35
Caving and hiking
C
owichan Lake has many trails, and even caves to offer the outdoor enthusiast. The trails and caves vary in length and difficulty and provide outdoor fun for every age and skill level. From the 70.2 Trestle Loop and Friendship Trail Park, both accessible from downtown Lake Cowichan, to Mesachie Mountain and Christopher Rock, there is something to satisfy everyone. Honeymoon Bay even has a wildflower reserve which provides an easy walk through forest and riparian habitat. The Caycuse Caves mean a bit of a drive, but are great for novice spelunkers who want a taste of underground exploration. Caves at Skutz Falls are currently in an active logging zone. Hikers and spelunkers are advised to use caution when exploring the area, bring plenty of water and dress appropriately.
36 36
2018 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019
Yours to explore
Lake to lake marathon
O
n Saturday, Sept. 14, put on your running shoes for the Lake to Lake Walk & Marathon, and new this year, a Half Marathon. The route takes participants from Shawnigan Lake to Cowichan Lake, a 42.2 kilometre trip along the Cowichan Valley Trail, for the charity of your choice. The half marathon runs for 21.1 km. Featured highlights of the route include crossing several historic railway bridges, including the Kinsol Trestle, traversing rural Cowichan countryside and experiencing the lush, green canopy of the Cowichan
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 2018
River Provincial Park. Volunteers will be strategically stationed along the route to encourage participants and provide food and beverages at rest stops, as well as access to portable toilets and basic medical attention if it’s needed. The marathon starts at 8 a.m. sharp — no latecomers. Registration deadline is Sept. 1, with the cost to enter ranging from $55 to $85 depending on how early you register. Pre and post walk shuttles are available for a $10 charge. The half marathon begins at 8:30 a.m. and the cost to enter ranges from $35 to $60.
37 37
Tubing W
Yours to explore
ith groups of people dotting the Cowichan River with inner tubes, dinghies, and other floatable devices throughout the summer, tubing down the Cowichan River has never been more popular. “Our parking lot get filled up during the summer,” local Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centre coordinator Katherine Worsley says of the influx of tubing tourists. The peak tubing season comes during the warmest summer months of July and August, when tubers can enjoy a combination of the hot sun and the cool of the water. With tubers, though, comes various concerns from the Cowichan Lake area’s riverside residents.
As such, the Cowichan Lake and River Stewardship Society has installed several signs along tubers’ routes eastward through town. Their main tips include: don’t litter, trespass, drink alcohol, or curse while tubing down the river. It’s a family activity after all. Be sure to also jump out by Little Beach, located a few kilometres downstream of Lake Cowichan; a trip that should take under three hours, from a starting point of Saywell Park. Otherwise you’ll be floating down the river for a few more hours before hitting the potentially dangerous rapids of Skutz Falls. An alternative point to jump in the Cowichan River is at Central Park, where a small stairwell, hidden in brush, will lead you down into the water.
Lake Cowichan Fire Department
SUMMER FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Fire Safety isn’t something you can afford to take a vacation from!
“Stay Alert...Stay Safe” even when you and your family are away on a camping vacation. 38 38
• Max campfire size 18”x18”x18”. Gas campfires are ok during campfire bans • Don’t leave children unattended and never leave them near a campfire alone. • Never use water to control grease fire flare ups on gas barbeques. In a fierce flare-up turn off the gas and remove the food and the grease will burn off in a few minutes. • Make sure that your fire is out before going to bed. • Keep a supply of water near your fire. • Check and maintain gas connections and fume vents on camping trailers. • Develop an escape plan and keep a small axe handy for emergency escapes. • Use only battery operated lights in your tents. Never use matches, candles or an open flame in a tent. • Never use gasoline or naptha (camp fuel) – it can cause an explosion. • Never cook or smoke in your tent – it’s a fire hazard and a carbon monoxide danger. • A fire extinguisher is a must for every camper’s equipment. • It is also recommended a portable smoke detector be part of every holidayer’s equipment. • If fire gets on your clothing or someone else’s, remember – stop, drop and roll to smother the flames. Remember WaterSafety! Wear life jackets! Keep boat safety equipment on board. For a full set of rules on Water safety and fire please go to our website
Lakecowichanfire.com “We are a Fire Smart Community”
Have a great summer and enjoy Lake Cowichan.
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019
Whale Watching
Cowichan Bay
www.OceanEcoVentures.com
Local - 250.748.3800 Toll Free - 1.866.748.5333 LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2019 2018
39 39
What some people call a great vacation spot… you can call home
Call Keith, Tracy, Reg or Pat for a look at some of the most beautiful waterfront properties on Vancouver Island!
www.lkc.ca WATERFRONT • RECREATIONAL • RESIDENTIAL • RENTALS
Keith Nelson
Tracy Forrest
Reg Davis
Pat Miller
250-749-6660 • 145 South Shore Rd. Lake Cowichan • www.lkc.ca 40
LAKE COWICHAN GAZETTE VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018