Similkameen Valley

Rugged, Rustic, Real

The Similkameen Valley is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Similamix and Smelqmix People. The heart of our valley is the Similkameen River, which carved our region from the Cascade Mountains. As you drive through, you’ll notice eclectic small towns and ranches and farms from seemingly eras past. From the fruit orchards and vineyards of Keremeos and Cawston to the wild grass meadows of Princeton’s cattle country, the air is alive with the honeyed song of bees, perfumed by blossoms exploding in the trees.

The Similkameen Valley stretches nearly 200 km (125 mi) from Allison Pass to the Richter Pass along the Crowsnest Highway 3 following the Similkameen River for the most part. From Manning Park in the West to Cawston to the East, you will travel through eclectic small towns, to sizeable ranches and farms. Home to the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada, Organic Farming Capital of Canada and the Grist Mill and Gardens, the last remaining mill of its generation in British Columbia. Plan your next meal with local produce and pair with our award-winning wines.

As you follow the river along the valley floor it will lead you to your special day full of discovery. Bird watch at the Swan lake Nature Reserve, or hike China Ridge near Princeton. Cast a line at one of the 49 lakes or two rivers for rainbow and brook trout or take in a round of golf with the 19 hole being the one to celebrate a great round. Meander or ride the Kettle Valley Rail Trail / Great Trail and China Ridge, all close to the Town of Princeton.

Plan your road trip to the Similkameen as part of your Crowsnest adventure. The Similkameen Valley includes Cawston, Chopaka, Coalmont, Eastgate, Hedley, Keremeos, Olalla, Princeton, Tulameen. Our Provincial Parks not to be missed include Manning Park Cathedral Lakes and Bromley Rock.