Vancouver Island, BC

Comox Valley

The Powell River ferry lands at the twin cities of Comox and Courtney lying in Vancouver Island’s lush and temperate Comox Valley. Nestled between the waters of the Strait of Georgia and the snow capped peaks of Beaufort Range, outdoor activities take top billing in the area.

Mt. Washington is a quick drive from the city, offering unbelievable snowfall (over 8 meters) and a first class ski resort. Down below, golf, and water sports are prime activities. There are seven exquisite courses where golfers can play, usually year round, thanks to the area’s wonderfully moderate weather. Whale watching, hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking are all popular pastimes in the valley.

Tim is studying geology, so the Courtney Museum and Paleontology Centre is a must see destination. The museum boasts the first elasmoseur, found west of the Canadian Rockies. This “long necked sea monster” swam in the oceans covering Vancouver Island in the Age of the Dinosaurs. Pat Trask, paleontology programme coordinator, suggests a trip to the nearby fossil site. Open to the public, the site encourages visitors to join in on the dig. If we find a common fossil, we’re told, we can take home our unique souvenir. We dig for an hour but fail to unearth even a crusty bit of bone. The next day, we consider returning to our Indiana Jones adventure but opt for an all you can eat breakfast on our way out of town.

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