Tucked into the northeastern arm of the shimmering Shuswap Lake on one of four “arms” that give the region its name, this vibrant little city of just over  20,000 sits on the traditional territory of the Secwépemc Nation and delivers big on craft beverages, outdoor recreation, and local food culture. Whether you’re rolling in for a weekend escape or building out a longer Shuswap itinerary, Salmon Arm has the ale-venture you’ve been looking for. Here’s how to make the most of it.

Grab a Pint at Ricochet Brewing & Taphouse

Your Salmon Arm ale-venture starts downtown at Ricochet Brewing & Taphouse, the city’s newest and most buzzed-about craft beer destination. It is also Salmon Arm’s 2024 Business of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year in 2025. The beer itself is brewed lakeside in Sunnybrae on the sunny shores of Shuswap Lake, then poured fresh at the vibrant downtown taphouse. With 36 taps pouring their own thoughtfully crafted brews alongside a rotating selection of BC’s best independent breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries, there’s truly something here for everyone.

The space is warm, game-filled, and full of good company — bring a deck of cards and settle in. Families are welcome until 10 pm, and the legendary kids’ snack flight (think taster glasses of soda, candy, and cheezies) is a hit with guests of all ages. Pair your pint with the fan-favourite beer cheese mac & cheese or order in from one of Salmon Arm’s local kitchen partners. Ricochet is more than a taphouse; it’s the kind of place where locals and visitors find themselves staying for just one more round.

Raise a Glass at Barley Station Brew Pub

For a taste of enduring Shuswap hospitality, head to Barley Station Brew Pub, a beloved Salmon Arm institution. Housed in a warm, rustic-charmed space, the Barley Station has been a gathering place for locals for years, and it’s easy to see why. They brew their own rotating selection of handcrafted ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties using local ingredients, and pair them with elevated pub fare that hits every comfort note. The pet-friendly patio is perfect for sunny Shuswap afternoons, and happy hour is always a good call. Whether you’re a hophead, a lager lover, or just hungry for a hearty meal, Barley Station delivers every time.

Sip Craft Cider at Northyards Cider Co.

Salmon Arm’s craft community extends beyond its breweries. Cider lovers are very well taken care of here.

Northyards Cider Co. is a craft cidery, orchard, and tasting room rolled into one. Their ciders are made using traditional methods from 100% BC apples and local fruit — pressed, fermented, and left to speak for themselves. The tasting room is a bright, upscale spot to slow down and truly savour what the Shuswap grows. Tours are available, and you can even book a stay on-site.

Walk the Wharf at Marine Peace Park (with Ice Cream!)

You simply cannot visit Salmon Arm without walking the wharf — and yes, it’s as impressive as people say. The park’s roots go back to 1907 when the original government wharf was built here, and the grounds have been a beloved community gathering place ever since. Designated as Salmon Arm’s Marine Peace Park during Canada’s 125th birthday celebrations in 1992, the beautifully landscaped grounds feature gardens, mature trees, a gazebo that made the journey from Expo 86 in Vancouver, and grassy picnic areas perfect for a lazy afternoon by the water.

The real showstopper, though, is the 440-foot curved wooden pier stretching out over the shimmering waters of Shuswap Lake with panoramic mountain views in every direction. It’s a genuinely iconic BC landmark. In summer, the Shuswap Arts Council brings it to life with Wednesdays on the Wharf, a free concert series running every Wednesday from June through August. Keep an eye on the water too; the bay is rich with bird life, and herons and grebes are frequent visitors. It’s the kind of place where a simple stroll turns into an extended stay.

Hike the Foreshore / Raven Trail

For a longer, more immersive nature experience, lace up and hit the Foreshore / Raven Trail: a stunning path that winds along the lakeshore and through the natural wetlands that make Salmon Arm one of BC’s premier birdwatching destinations. The main trailhead sits at the east end of Harbourfront Drive in downtown Salmon Arm. Parking is limited at the trailhead, so consider leaving your car at Marine Peace Park and walking the SABNES East Walkway and Harbourfront Drive to get there. It’s a lovely warm-up.

This trail is part of the BC Bird Trail, so please leave your pup at home. Keep your eyes peeled for great blue herons, western grebes, and all manner of migratory species. It’s the kind of walk that reminds you why people fall in love with the Shuswap.

Paddle the Lake Canoe Beach

The Shuswap is made for getting out on the water, and paddling is one of the best ways to do it. The sandy shores of Canoe Beach make for a perfect launch spot. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard – or rent one through Salmon Arm Go Karts and Mini Golf. If you don’t want to haul your rental to the water yourself, their handy delivery and pick-up service is well worth it for just an additional $25. There’s something truly special about taking in Salmon Arm from the water; gliding along the glassy surface of the bay with mountain peaks rising in every direction, the city quietly at your back and nothing but open sky and Shuswap ahead. It’s a perspective on this place that you simply can’t get from the shore.

Grab a Gelato and Stroll McGuire Lake

McGuire Lake Park is one of Salmon Arm’s most beloved spots, and the fact that it sits right in the centre of town makes it all the more special. Before you set out, swing by Pink Cherry for a scoop (or two) of gelato to enjoy on the walk. 

This beautiful little urban oasis is a genuine delight: a peaceful, wildlife-rich lake ringed by plentiful gardens, mature willows, and a fully paved, wheelchair-accessible walkway that makes for an easy and scenic loop for all abilities.

The park is full of small surprises. At its heart stands the Japanese Friendship Gate, a gift from Inashiki, Japan — Salmon Arm’s sister city — and a popular spot for photos. A seasonal illuminated fountain adds a lovely touch, particularly in the evenings. The grassy picnic areas along 6th Street NE are perfect for a slow lunch in the sun, and the serene willow trees section near the hospital is a favourite for weddings and quiet reflection alike. 

Shop the Farmers Market and Wander Downtown

Salmon Arm’s Downtown Farmers Market is a wonderful place to get a real taste of the community. Browse stalls piled with locally grown produce, artisan goods, and handcrafted creations that reflect the creativity and care of the people who call this place home. It’s a warm, welcoming scene that captures everything special about small-city BC.

From the market, wander into the broader downtown along Salmon Arm’s charming main streets. You’ll find boutiques, galleries, and one-of-a-kind shops that showcase the town’s artistic spirit and independent character. This is the kind of downtown where you actually stop in places, and not just walk past them.

Fuel Up with Local Eats

One of the best things about Salmon Arm is that the food scene genuinely reflects the community: independent, quality-driven, and full of character. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a local spot that does it well.

Start your morning right at Westgate Bakery & Café or Shuswap Pie Co. Both are the kind of beloved neighbourhood institutions that locals swear by. Westgate turns out artisan breads and decadent pastries alongside a great coffee, while Shuswap Pie Co. does homestyle pies and baked goods entirely from scratch. Either way, you’re setting a high bar for the day. If you’re after something more nourishing, The Nom has you covered with wholesome meals, smoothies, fresh-pressed juice, and healthy snacks from their downtown storefront — the kind of fuel that actually keeps up with an active Shuswap itinerary.

Come dinnertime, the options are just as varied. Nineteen05 Kitchen & Raw Bar offers a more elevated evening out, with locally inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and fresh flavours in a modern lakeside setting. For a taste of the Mediterranean right in the heart of the Shuswap, Ambrosia Grill Taverna brings authentic Greek flavours and modern vibes to Salmon Arm. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a proper getaway. If Italian is calling, AnDiamo is a must, serving up handcrafted pastas, fresh local ingredients, homemade tiramisu, and on weekends, the owner himself takes to the mic for a little live entertainment that has a habit of turning dinner into a full evening. For something bold and vibrant, Cantina Vallarta brings authentic traditional Mexican cooking to the Shuswap with ingredients and flavours that feel genuinely transportive. And if you’re after something hearty, lively, and unapologetically fun, Canooligans’ delivers creative comfort food with a local twist and the kind of atmosphere that makes the evening stretch on a little longer than planned — which is always a good sign.

Don’t overlook Cahoots either. This BBQ, bakery, and cocktail spot is a fantastic find for a Friday or Saturday brunch that drifts effortlessly into happy hour. Think smoky, satisfying food paired with a laid-back space that does mornings and evenings equally well.

Where to Stay

Salmon Arm has accommodation options to suit every travel style. Whether you’re looking for polished comfort in the heart of the action or a peaceful retreat just outside of town.

For those who want to be close to everything, Hilltop Inn is Salmon Arm’s premier resort-style luxury boutique hotel. Spacious, thoughtfully appointed rooms range from well-equipped Queen and King Executives to generous Junior Suites with soaker tubs and kitchenettes, all with views of the outdoor pool, gardens, forest, or Shuswap Lake. Nearby hiking trails offer an escape into nature, or head for the downtown shops, restaurants, and waterfront, which are all within easy reach. The pool, open seasonally from May to September, is the largest outdoor heated pool in BC, and on a warm Shuswap evening, it’s a pretty wonderful place to wind down after a full day.

If a quieter, more intimate experience is what you’re after, Inn at the Ninth is something special. Tucked alongside the ninth hole of the Salmon Arm Golf Club, just a short drive from downtown, this warmly hosted B&B offers individually decorated suites — each with a private entrance, en-suite bathroom, and views of the surrounding forest and mountains. A complimentary continental breakfast is included each morning, and the host’s genuine warmth and local knowledge have made it a consistently top-rated stay in the region. It’s the kind of place guests talk about long after they’ve checked out.

Plan Your Salmon Arm Ale-venture

Salmon Arm may sit on the quieter side of the Shuswap, but it’s anything but sleepy. From craft breweries and cideries that celebrate local ingredients and community spirit, to trails that wind along one of BC’s most beautiful lakes, to a downtown full of independent shops and remarkable food, this city rewards the curious traveller at every turn. Pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall for the Shuswap.

Find Salmon Arm on the Southern Interior Ale Trail and start planning your next ale-venture to the sunny Shuswap.

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Salmon Arm: Sips, Strolls, and Shuswap Adventures appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

What Even Is a Salmon Arm?

Salmon don’t have arms, they have fins. At least, I think they do? Hold on a minute while I go check Google….

….okay, upon further investigation, I have determined that salmon do not have arms and the name Salmon Arm has nothing to do with the anatomy of a fish. My bad.

The truth of the name comes from one of BC’s most precious natural resources. Salmon Arm is one of four ‘arms’ that feed into the stunning Shuswap Lake in British Columbia. This particular arm has historically been a prime location for salmon runs during September and October. So, while the name isn’t about a mutated fish like the one Bart Simpson caught, it is about fish abundance. Makes sense now, right?

Now that we’ve learned a little bit of toponymy, let’s dive in to another Salmon Arm fact. Did you know it’s home to North America’s longest, curved wooden wharf? It’s true! I saw it with my own eyes while on assignment with the BC Ale Trail and the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society (SAEDS).

Beyond its impressive wharf and endless beautiful scenery, Salmon Arm also boasts a vibrant beer scene. Despite being a smaller city with a population under 20,000, it’s a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers. The three breweries I’m about to highlight each offer something unique and distinct to the region.

Ricochet Brewing

Located in the heart of downtown, Ricochet Brewing’s Taphouse fills a much-needed void in Salmon Arm, with a diverse selection of craft beer and cider from across BC. With 36 taps, including 10 of their own brews on tap when I visited, the Ricochet tasting room has something for all BC craft beer and cider lovers. They also offer delicious food sourced from local kitchens and restaurants. The meat pie I ate was perfect on a chilly winter day.

Ricochet is also a family-friendly spot that offers an array of games, kid’s food and drink options and, my kids’ favourite, the snack flight. It features two flight glasses of soda or juice, a glass of candy and a glass of cheezies. And let’s be honest here, it wasn’t just my kids’ favourite; it was mine too! So don’t be shy about ordering one for yourself, it isn’t just for the kiddos.

While their tasting room is relatively new (it opened in July 2024), owners Marc and Meaghan have already been brewing and supplying the Shuswap region with Ricochet beer for two and a half years. Their five-year plan of opening a tasting room came to fruition a bit earlier than anticipated, but the decision has clearly paid off. Their commitment to the community and focus on creating a welcoming space has been a huge hit with both locals and out-of-towners. They even won Salmon Arm Business of the Year for 2024. Add on the fact that Marc and Meaghan are two of the nicest, hardest-working people you’ll ever meet and it makes Ricochet a must-visit when you’re in Salmon Arm.

The Barley Station Brew Pub

A Salmon Arm staple since 2006, The Barley Station offers a classic neighbourhood pub atmosphere for pub-goers 19+. But unlike most standard pubs, their brewing prowess has earned them multiple accolades. The pub boasts a cabinet full of trophies from the Canadian and BC Beer Awards over the years, as well as the Best Ale Award at the 2008 Okanagan Fest-of-Ale for their Sam McGuire’s Pale Ale. On my visit I sampled a flight of some of their core beers and the standout for me was the Bushwacker Brown Ale.

Beyond their award-winning brews, The Barley Station boasts a cozy pub food menu with some interesting twists. While you can find traditional favourites, they also offer more adventurous options like the Haskap Bison Burger and Miki’s Berbere Sandwich. There’s something to satisfy every palate.

The Barley Station is also committed to giving back to the community. They donate $0.10 to the Salmon Arm Trail Alliance for every sleeve of Shuswap Trail Ale IPA sold. Additionally, their current Burger It Forward initiative, in partnership with Canada Beef, donates the equivalent of one meal to Food Banks Canada for every feature burger purchased. Beer, burgers and charitable initiatives? Count me in!

Crannóg Ales*

(see editor’s note below)

First of all, let’s get the pronunciation of Crannóg out of the way so you don’t embarrass yourself like I did saying it incorrectly in front of Rebecca and Brian, the owners of Crannóg Ales. It’s pronounced “cran” “uhg”, not “cran” “awg”.

Now that we’ve cleared that up, I highly recommend checking out Brian K. Smith’s excellent article on the BC Ale Trail website about the history of Crannóg, Canada’s (and possibly North America’s) first certified organic on-farm microbrewery.

What I’m here to tell you about is what to expect on a visit to Crannóg Ales…

Crannóg isn’t actually in Salmon Arm; it’s about a 30-minute drive west in Sorrento, at Left Fields Farms, located on the unceded Secwepemc Territory. Also owned by Rebecca and Brian, Left Fields is a certified organic farm with a deep commitment to sustainability. From wastewater treatment and reuse to repurposing spent grains to feeding leftover beer to their pigs (lucky pigs), Left Fields and Crannóg strive to minimize their environmental footprint and not outgrow their farm.

This commitment also extends to their brewing process and to-go options. Crannóg grows its own organic hops and even sells hop rhizomes, playing a key role in the BC-grown hop revolution they sparked back in 2001. In regards to take-home offerings, they exclusively offer growler fills, available at the brewery, designated drop-off spots, and weekly farmers’ markets. This choice reflects their dedication to reducing waste from single-use packaging and not outgrowing the capacity of their farm.

Visiting the Crannóg tasting room requires a bit of planning. No, you cannot just show up any day of the week and drink a pint at your leisure. The only way to enjoy a beer on premises is by booking a tour, which typically run on Fridays and Saturdays by appointment, with a maximum of 6 people. While this may sound like quite the effort just to get a fresh glass of Backhand of God stout, all I can say is, trust me, it’s worth it.

Touring the farm adorned with Brian’s Celtic artwork, seeing all the amazing things they do outside of brewing great beer (making vinegar, yarn production, papermaking and more) and hearing Rebecca and Brian’s passionate advocacy for sustainability, organic farming, and human rights issues is truly inspiring. Also chatting with them about the Vancouver punk-rock scene and Brian’s band Immoral Minority, was another personal highlight for me. They’ve actually had Vancouver punk legends DOA play at their farm a few times.

It really is difficult to capture the entire Crannóg Ales experience in just a few paragraphs. There’s so much to talk about. Truly, the best way to understand it is to experience it for yourself.

Sláinte!

*Editor’s note: In 2025, Crannóg was purchased by BNA Brewing. The physical brewery and tasting room in Sorrento closed as of August 2025, but beer production will continue at BNA Brewing using ingredients from Left Fields Farms. Be sure to watch for your favourite Crannóg brews on tap at BNA’s locations around the Interior. 

The post Sips in the Shuswap: Discovering Salmon Arm’s Brewery Scene appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

The Noble Pig’s roots in Kamloops run deep. Their dedication and grassroots efforts, which have earned them this year’s City of Kamloops Community Service Award from the Kamloops Chamber, are a testament to their 15 years of community building. For the team, this honour is not just about peer recognition. It’s a reflection of their long-term commitment to support, sustainability, and genuine care for the community.

Since opening its doors in 2010 as Kamloops’ first craft brewery, The Noble Pig has not just been a part of the city’s beer and food scene but a driving force in shaping it. Led by managing partners Maeghan Summers (operating manager), Jared Summers (executive chef), Nick Murphy (head brewer), and Sara Hanrahan (restaurant manager), they have set out to create a space where locals and visitors could gather, enjoy upscale yet approachable food, and sip craft brews that tell a story.

Their beer program began with four flagship brews inspired by the classic tale of ‘The Three Little Pigs’: the Munich helles lager Straw House, the Belgian pepper ale Stick House, the mocha porter Stone House, and the India pale ale Big Bad Wolf. Over the years, these beers have become more than menu items; they’ve become local staples, loved for their quality and brewed with the spirit of the Kamloops craft beer scene.

Food and Beer, Rooted in Community

The Noble Pig’s commitment to Kamloops goes beyond serving up great food and beer. It’s about making thoughtful choices that have a lasting impact on the community. Since 2010, The Noble Pig and their sister spot, Underbelly, have spent over $8 million on local food and contributed more than $250,000 to community projects. These investments strengthen Kamloops’ local economy and highlight the brewpub’s deep connection to the area.

Nearly all their ingredients come from within 100 kilometres, sourced from partners like Blackwell Dairy, Thistle Farms, and other local purveyors. Executive chef Jared Summers and his team transform ingredients into high-quality, playful dishes that nod to the brewhouse’s pig-themed branding. Sustainability is woven into every part of their kitchen.

In a tough industry, The Noble Pig has stayed strong, driven by a simple belief in doing what’s right. Their story isn’t just about their success—it’s about lifting up the greater Kamloops community, one choice at a time.

Beyond the Brew: Making a Difference

At The Noble Pig, community work is more than a checkbox; it’s a way of life. The brewhouse regularly supports local causes, from donating to hospital expansion programs to partnering with the local Rotary Club to benefit a wide range of community needs, from youth sports to hospice care. They also actively participate in initiatives that assist families in need, whether through fundraising efforts or by giving their time and resources.

The team takes pride in redirecting advertising dollars to community initiatives. Instead of traditional marketing, The Noble Pig invests in local events, fundraisers, and projects that have real, measurable impacts.

“We do it because it’s the right thing for our people,” the team shares. “The community pays our bills, so we take care of the community that takes care of us.”

Their efforts have a ripple effect, inspiring other local businesses to join in. The Noble Pig team doesn’t just celebrate their own success; they’re one of the loudest supporters of their peers, celebrating the growth of the Kamloops beer scene as a collective triumph.

*Read more about this summer’s fundraising collab brew Shot of Gold 2.0 here.

Crafting Moments and Memories

In a city with a proud, blue-collar work ethic, The Noble Pig balances tradition with innovation. Their playful spirit is evident in everything they do, from naming beers like the ultra-dry IPA Javelina* to debuting their now-famous Free Bird chicken sandwich marinated in leftover pickle juice from their housemade crispy pickles. But beneath the humour is a serious dedication to quality and community.

They’ve created a space where moments become memories—where visitors and locals alike feel connected to Kamloops. “We’re not just making food and beer; we’re gatekeepers to experiences that imprint on people’s lives,” Summers reflects. “That’s our role, and it’s the most rewarding job in the world.”

*Javelina pigs are a South American desert breed known for their love of hot, dry climates, which makes it the perfect name for an ultra-dry IPA!

Full Circle Community Impact

The Noble Pig’s impact is felt in every corner of Kamloops, from the farmers they support to the guests who leave with unforgettable memories. Their story is a testament to what can happen when a business chooses to invest in its community fully, weaving a tapestry of local pride, sustainable practices, and the simple joy of great beer and food.

Winning the Kamloops Chamber’s City of Kamloops Community Service Award may be a recent highlight, but for The Noble Pig, the real reward is knowing they’ve helped build a stronger, more connected Kamloops. As Hanrahan notes,

“Community and beer are the pillars of our success, and we’re just getting started.”

The post Community, Craft, and Commitment: The Story of The Noble Pig Brewhouse appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Hit the lakes and the links, or find your new favourite trail to hike or bike. Sip your way through four local breweries and discover mouthwatering restaurants.  The trails are quiet, the greens are prime, and the lakes are calm. Recently, Mary Sheridan (@MaryInVanCity) hit the road to spend a weekend exploring, sipping and savouring her way around the vast landscapes, and unique blend of urban and outdoor adventures of Kamloops. Here are her top five reasons that Kamloops should be your next fall road trip destination.

Learn about the history of the land and its people

Kamloops is located on the ancestral lands of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. The Tk’emlúpsemc, or “the people of the confluence”  have lived there since time immemorial. Visit Tk’emlupsemcúl̓ecw with respect and take part in authentic Indigenous experiences. From tours to cuisine, there are many ways to honour and embrace their culture—and broaden your understanding of their values, traditions, and lived experiences.

If you time your trip just right, you can immerse yourself in a captivating lineup of films from Indigenous creators from Canada and abroad at the annual Stseptékwles re Sk’elép (Coyote Stories) Indigenous Film Festival, held in late September.

Crisp Trails & Fall Colors

From laid-back paths to rugged terrain, there’s an option for every level of hiker to explore. Mary and her travel partner chose the McArthur Island Loop, a visit to BC’s largest municipal park, Kenna Cartwright Park, and Peterson Creek Nature Park⁠. The McArthur Island loop is a 2-3km paved walking loop around the bustling sports-oriented Island where you’re likely to see local wildlife including marmots, deer, and plenty of ducks, geese and swans. If you want to get more off the beaten track, Kenna Cartwright Park boasts over 40km of multi-use trails for hikers and mountain bikers of all ages and abilities, featuring breathtaking views of the Thompson Valley. Peterson Creek Nature Park combines the best of both worlds. It is situated in the heart of the city along a natural creek corridor, featuring over 10 km of varied trails for every skill level.

Find your perfect hike. 

Local Breweries

Kamloops is home to four breweries, each with their own personality and style.

• Sample innovative, small-batch brews straight from the tanks at Bright Eye Brewing. Pair them with something from the large, curated menu of fresh bites.
• In addition to its award-winning beer, Iron Road Brewing is known for its authentic Mexican food.
• The Noble Pig Brewhouse, simply put, features incredible house-made craft brews paired with meticulously created food using only the best ingredients.
• Downtown, you’ll find Red Collar Brewing, a gathering place for beer lovers and brewers of the Room to Roam collab beer.

This fall, Red Collar Brewing has partnered with Tourism Kamloops to create the Room to Roam IPA. Inspired by the endless trails of Kamloops this light, crisp and refreshing Belgian White IPA is the perfect companion to sit back and enjoy the beauty around you.⁣ Be on the lookout for 4-packs at the brewery and at Everything Wine BC locations around the province.

Beyond the Brews

Kamloops is home to a thriving culinary scene. While each of the four local breweries offers its own options for great eats, you’ll find so much more to explore. From the authentic Indigenous cuisine at Kekuli Café, to delectable and indulgent breakfasts at The Chook Eatery, waking up on holidays is easy for once!

For non beer drinkers, or those who simply like some variety, you can, of course, find plenty of other tasting opportunities at an abundance of local cideries and wineries like Privato Vineyard and Winery or Woodward Cider.

Explore the Arts and Culture Scene

Kamloops is more than outdoor adventures – there is also a thriving arts scene and a unique culture that has to be experienced to be understood. There are three art galleries each with their own unique exhibits featuring contemporary and traditional works from local and national artists. For a dazzling experience, check out the Illuminate Kamloops project: a city-wide showcase of art and light bringing to life the urban landscape.

Support local makers, artisans and vendors at the Kamloops Farmers’ Markets or a local shop like Haus of Misfit that hosts night markets with dozens of artists, a retail space showcasing independent brands, and ‘haus-made’ goods.

Level up your trip with a Sip + Stay package

Pair your stay with a craft beer experience by booking a Sip + Stay package. From now until December 15, the Thompson Hotel is offering a great deal on your stay, plus some local brews and treats to enjoy. Located less than 10 minutes’ walk from a beach, this restored historic hotel is located in the Kamloops city centre making it the perfect home-away-from-home for your ale-venture.

The post MaryInVanCity’s Top Five Reasons to Explore Kamloops This Fall appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

It all began with a mountain. 

When Max Daburger walked throughout the Kamloops mountains in the late ’50s searching for the perfect ski hill, he settled on a mountain that faced the sun. Today, still family-run, Harper Mountain’s 1,400 metres of vertical is one of the few places in the province to offer night skiing. Operating since 1973, the resort is cozy personified — imagine warming up in front of a wood-burning fireplace with a mug of  48-year-old secret hot wine.

“Harper Mountain is traditional winter fun,” says manager Lisa Daburger.

The resort has everything: skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing. There is also a network of classic trails through the trees that can be accessed with a chairlift ride to the top. The kids will especially love the Snow Town Tube Park.  

The mountain serves local beer, and the breweries downtown are a short drive away. Located on the north shore of the city, Bright Eye Brewing helped launch a neighbourhood revitalization, something akin to Gastown in Vancouver. Shortly after they moved in, an influx of young families and innovative businesses emerged. 

Bright Eye does not have flagship beers on the menu; instead, the line-up is a rotating tap list of creations. Imagine Jammin’, a stout with flavours of raspberry; or a beer that is the best of both worlds — Everything’s Vine is a saison with a taste of Harper’s Trail Cab Franc wine.

“It’s both exciting and nerve-wracking experimenting and creating new beer recipes weekly,” says Richard Marken, director of the brewery. “There’s always a risk that some of the crazy ideas won’t pan out as hoped in the final product, but luckily so far we’ve gotten great feedback on most of our experiments!”

A visit here is also a culinary experience—the expansive dining area is buzzing—not to mention they serve the beer directly from the tanks where it ferments! The food is just as surprising with fun dishes like Brussels sprouts with aioli and a dill pickle pizza.

If you want a solitary experience, Stake Lake is acres of forest with expansive views and 60 km of expertly groomed Nordic trails through a pine forest. The blue trails are a place for solace  — and, bonus, heated washrooms and warming huts! For snowshoers, I recommend hiking to the top of the Bushwacker trail for an expansive view of the surroundings. And feel free to bring the pooch on the 5 km dog-friendly trail. For a magical experience, try night skiing on lit trails. 

An excellent snowshoe spot is Kenna Cartwright Park. The largest municipal park in the province with 800 acres of undulating climbs, which makes for some challenging terrain and beautiful views. Another favourite is the Peterson Creek Nature Park, and the connected Tom Moore trail is a challenging 4.8-km snowshoe hike to a lookout of the city.

And since Kamloops is the home of freeride mountain biking, locals are keen to keep riding year-round; at Kenna Cartwright Park, fat biking trails are glorious — albeit not groomed. For volunteer-groomed trails, Isobel Lake Winter Recreational Trails, just northwest of Kamloops, has 30 km of trails with some trail names that reveal their love of cycling and beer: Beers ‘n Tears, Beers a Waiting or the popular, What Ales You. Check the site for updated grooming conditions and how to donate to volunteers keeping the trails in riding condition. 

For a scrumptious post-ski meal, I recommend Iron Road Brewing’s Mexican street corn nachos or a trio of tacos, their specialty. Two former geologists started this funky brewery that overlooks the city near the university. The brewery’s philosophy is all about variety. My flight included a popular trio: Red Bridge Pale Ale has notes of biscuits, while the Loopline IPA has been called a “hop bomb” and the Czech-style Locomotive Lager is also on the hoppy side. But, as a sour lover, I adored the Juice Train series, which changes fruit often. Apricot is delicious!  

“We love to brew traditional, clean styles that appeal to a wide demographic,” says co-owner Richard Phillips. “We love German-style beers, mainly, as that is the kind of beer that we like to drink.”

If you’re looking for a romantic post-ski place, the Noble Pig Brewhouse, the first microbrewery in Kamloops, is a cozy brewpub. I loved sitting at the long wooden bar sampling a flight. From a Belgian pepper ale (Stick House) to a mocha porter (Stone House), the beers are innovative and surprising—and so is the food. Executive chef, Jared Summers, has created a menu that is made up of local market-fresh ingredients prepared with classic techniques such as poutine made with mocha porter gravy or truffle mac and cheese. To finish it off, grab two forks and a slice of Granny’s rich chocolate cake.

For my final beer stop, Red Collar Brewing (they make gin, too!) pays homage to dogs everywhere and is steeped in local culture — for example, their apricot sour uses fruit that Lara Beardsell, Director of Marketing, picked from across the city. Lara’s family also began the brewery.

“We also collaborate with our community whenever possible,” she elaborated. “We do an annual collaboration with Western Canada Theatre for one of their productions.”’

And when Sun Peaks Resort recently celebrated their 60^th anniversary, Red Collar created Altitude Adjustment, a White IPA. They have traditional beers, but they also go outside the comfort zone—Squash Gourdon (a squash ale) is dreamy.

And the nicest part of visiting these places: they’re all within a 30-minute drive if you base yourself at a hotel downtown.

The Sandman Signature feels like a boutique-style hotel — you get a bag of snacks in your room and coffee in the main lobby in the morning. Not to mention, if you want to swim or work out, the fitness area is superb. I watched an episode of Pink Panther while working out! And the true beauty is that it’s a short five-minute walk to downtown. 

My final word is breakfast. The Art We Are is a café and an artists’ hub. The space is wide open and full of paintings and local crafts. You’d also be hard-pressed to find something on the menu not from a local producer—everything from the cheese to the farmer’s sausage is sourced nearby.

Dipping my breakfast egg wrap into the homemade ketchup before heading home, it’s easy to see why one would return to Kamloops. For a small town, it’s got a big sense of self. 

The post Pints and Powder: Kamloops Has It All appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Get crafty this March in Kamloops and the Shuswap region. Part of the Southern Interior Ale Trail, these InBEERior communities are home to diverse breweries, restaurants, and cideries serving up local flavours with a unique flair. And be sure to add a flick or two to your tasting adventure roster at the Kamloops Film Festival.

Fill Your Tasting Pass to Win!

Now is the perfect time for a tasting tour of Kamloops and the Shuswap. How do you participate?

1. Visit any of the participating businesses listed below during the month of March, 2022, and ask for a stamp when you buy beer, cider or food, or attend a film during the Kamloops Film Festival. Note: The Kamloops Film Festival takes place March 3-12, 2022. Check thekfs.ca for details.
2. Once you have collected six unique stamps, hand in the pass at any of the participating businesses or Shuswap Visitor Centre to receive a special BC Ale Trail camp mug (while supplies last). Completed Tasting Passes will be entered in a draw for a chance to win a brewery prize pack or the Grand Prize package: a two-day getaway on the Kelowna and West Kelowna Ale Trail!

Great prizes to be won!

Prizes include a Grand Prize Getaway to Kelowna and West Kelowna plus several smaller packages.

1. The Grand Prize includes two nights accommodation in Kelowna plus $100 to spend at a BC Ale Trail brewery along with a BC Ale Trail swag pack valued at $200.
2. Several other prize packages featuring BC Ale Trail swag, merchandise from the participating breweries, and gift cards to local liquor stores and taphouses will also be awarded. We will collect all the completed Tasting Passes and then draw random winners in April.

Check out the Southern Interior Ale Trail for inspiration for fun ways to explore the craft beer scene locally.

Our handy four-day itinerary suggests a variety of ways to explore the Southern Interior Ale Trail. Be sure to visit Crannóg Ales, the organic, farm-based brewery located in Sorrento, BC, between Kamloops and Salmon Arm.

Read Melanie Chambers’s recent blog, “Pints & Powder,” for more ideas on how to explore Kamloops, including winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding or tubing at Harper’s Mountain; Nordic skiing, fat biking or snowshoeing on a variety of trails around the city;  or more urban adventures like shopping, dining and, of course, beer tasting!

Accommodation Discounts in Kamloops

Receive 15% off a two-night stay with the following Kamloops accommodation partners when you show your Kamloops-Shuswap Tasting Pass upon check-in.

Best Western Plus Kamloops Hotel
660 Columbia Street West • (250) 374-7878

Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Centre
1250 Rogers Way • (250) 828-6660

Prestige Kamloops Hotel
1810 Rogers Place • (250) 372-0987

Ranchland Inn
2357 Trans-Canada Highway East • (250) 828-8787

Riverland Inn & Suites
1530 River Street • (250) 374-1530

Where can you pick up a Tasting Pass?

The Kamloops-Shuswap Tasting Passes are available for free at any of the participating businesses, as well as at local tourism Visitor Centres.

Here is the full distribution list:

Kamloops:

Bright Eye Brewing – 292 Tranquille Rd
Iron Road Brewing – 980 Camosun Cres
Kamloops Film Festival – 503 Victoria St (Paramount Theatre)
Noble Pig Brewhouse – 650 Victoria St
Red Beard Cafe – 449 Tranquille Rd
Red Collar Brewing Co. – 355 Lansdowne St
Underbelly By The Pig – 120 5 Ave (at Lansdowne St)

Shuswap:

Barley Station Brewpub – 20 Shuswap St S, Salmon Arm
Crannóg Ales – 706 Elson Rd, Sorrento
Northyards Cider – 3181 11 Ave NE, Salmon Arm
Shuswap Cider – 100-2090 10 Ave SW, Salmon Arm (in the Westgate Public Market)

The BC Ale Trail app is a useful map and informational tool for exploring local breweries. Collect points at each brewery you visit and redeem them for rewards.

The post Fill the Kamloops-Shuswap Tasting Pass for a Chance to Win in March 2022 appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

It’s trivia night at Masa’s Bar & Grill at Sun Peaks Resort and the place is packed with young and old looking for a battle of wits. The energy is palpable. On many tables, along with ski gloves and hats, there is an inordinate number of pints of white IPA—it seems everyone wants to get a taste of the resort’s 60th anniversary beer made specially for this occasion.  

Sun Peaks enlisted Red Collar Brewing in Kamloops to create the celebratory beer. 

Called Altitude Adjustment, the beer is an easy-drinking, citrusy White IPA. The decision for a White IPA came almost exclusively from Lara Beardsell, Red Collar’s head of sales and marketing.

“The mountain wanted something with a wide appeal and we figured a White IPA would be the most fun,” she explained. “Plus snow is white so there’s that connection, and WIPAs tend to be a little more approachable for those non-hoppy beer drinkers.”

This beer has a wheat base and is made from Eldorado, Ahtanum, and Cascade hops. “The perfect apres beer!” added Beardsell. 

According to Sun Peaks, naming the anniversary beer wasn’t as straightforward. After tossing around some ideas related to the mountain’s original name, history, and ski trivia, ultimately, they decided on Altitude Adjustment because “we really wanted the beer to have relevance to consumers from further away than just our little mountain village,” said Rob McCloskey, Sun Peaks Resort’s director of marketing. “It’s also a nod to mountain life and to Tod Mountain, the highest peak in the Shuswap Highlands. Plus, you can never go wrong with alliteration.” 

Originally called Tod Mountain, Sun Peaks is British Columbia’s only mountain resort municipality.

To complete the look, the beer’s label had to be just as thoughtful and unique. The resort enlisted local artist Zuzy Rocka to create a painting that captured the spirit of the resort. Using the vintage blue and orange from the original Tod Mountain uniform patches, the painting, called Dreams Aglow, shows a wolf looking onto the warm glowing village from the forest. It’s like a scene from The Grinch Who Stole Christmas and the Whos in Whoville. The painting appears on the lift tickets, season passes and labels of the anniversary beer. For those lucky enough to ski there this year, it’s a great souvenir to take home. 

The next day, I begin tasting all the resort’s activities and seeking out the white IPA whenever I can. At the new (pre-COVID constructed) NHL-sized ice rink, the party music blares as we race around the impeccable smooth glass —this beats skating at the pond any day. 

It’s a warm-up to my next day’s activities, and one of the most intense winter sports: skate skiing. Sun Peaks Resort has over 37 kms of Nordic classic track, some even open for dogs.

“Look forward with your nose in the air, like you’re flying,” says Elia Ganderski, an instructor who has deep roots in this area.

Elia’s effortlessly swan-like movements make this look easy. I take five glides and get winded. This spry 67-year-old with shoulder length hair loves this place with all his heart: “Look around you — no city could ever offer this.” He has a point. 

And, for the more experienced, you can take the Morrisey Express chairlift to the top—it’s the only Nordic centre in Canada with a chair lift! The view from 1,675 metres above is spectacular. And the best: a stop into the McGillivray Lake hut for some hot chocolate and chit chat. Skiing back down, I run into Phil Youwe, the director of Nordic skiing. Phil gave me a skate skiing lesson back when I visited Sun Peaks in 2016.

“I thought I recognized you! Melanie, right?” 

For the mandatory après beer, it’s hard deciding where to go: it seems there are as many restaurants as ski runs! Cahilty Creek Kitchen & Taproom is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. I try the scrumptious Thai curry and a flight of beers. I opt for BC beer, of course: a Steamworks IPA from Vancouver that tastes citrusy and a Dark Matter from Hoyne Brewing in Victoria. 

Throughout my week there, the same at-home atmosphere is everywhere in the village. Konrad Glowczynski and his family have been serving up coffee and treats at Bolacco Caffé since 1996. And, across the street at Tod Mountain Café, I devour a plate of homemade crepes seated in front of a retro Tod Mountain wooden sign; with chipped paint and retro skier, it speaks of the longevity of this place.

On another day I jump on to a fat bike, which feels like riding an inner tube on the snow! Many of the nordic trails are open to fat bikes that you can rent. With the scrunchy snow underneath and views, it’s easy to work up a sweat and hunger. I head to Vertical Café, which is sprinkled with artwork created by members of the ArtZone Sun Peaks Arts Society, a community-based group of local arts and culture enthusiasts. 

Over a falafel and frosty can of Altitude Adjustment, I find local artist John McKnight’s fairy tale-like wood carvings. John has carved tiny homes into a thick tree branch that make it look like an elves’ home. From my stool, I watch the hum of ski life pass by the window: kids ski into the village and regulars grab their coffees in their clunky ski boots.

 For a change of pace, I stop into Sun Peaks Yoga on the west side of the village for a much-needed restorative yin stretch: “Don’t feel bad if you fall asleep; three people did in the last class,” says Kayla, the owner and new mom. 

On my last night, I join some regulars at Powder Hounds. The beef stroganoff speaks to the bar’s German roots, and is sumptuous and rich. One of the regulars tells me that he bought a condo at Sun Peaks almost 20 years ago. How has the resort changed, I ask. “Well, it’s certainly got more people,” he says. “But, it still has that rural feel—you never wait in line for skiing, and you just know everyone that’s here—it’s a family, you know?” 

As he buys a round for us all, I know what he means. 

The post Celebrating 60 Years at Sun Peaks Resort appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Driving from Vancouver to the Okanagan often involves a rest stop in Merritt for a break to stretch your legs, maybe gas up the car, and grab a quick snack before continuing on your journey. But now, as Aaron Johnson discovered last summer, you may need to build in more time for a proper stopover because there is a brewery in Merritt.

Located in the beautiful Nicola Valley at the confluence of the Nicola and Coldwater Rivers,  Merritt is a community that offers exceptional opportunities to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities: golfing, camping, hiking, mountain biking and fishing (locals say “There’s a lake a day as long as you stay.”), along with skiing and snowmobiling in the colder months.

The Empty Keg Brew House is the dream of the husband and wife team of Kelly and Kyle Hall. Kyle was an avid homebrewer who kept his friends and relations happy for years by sharing his delicious beer with them. About 10 years ago, one of them said, “Your beer is so good — if you ever open a brewery you’ll never be able to keep the kegs full.“ And that was where the brewery’s name came from.

On his visit, Aaron Johnson sat down with Kyle Hall, who began homebrewing 30 years ago. Hall says his recipe book is the thickness of an encyclopedia and he has only just scratched the surface since he opened in May 2019

The post Cascadian Beer Podcast: Empty Keg Brew House appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

 My most recent Hops Among Friends interview was with Erin Dale from Barkerville Brewing in Quesnel. At the end of the interview, Erin suggested that I interview David Beardsell of Red Collar Brewing. Red Collar Brewing opened in 2014 in Kamloops on the Kamloops, Shuswap, Vernon and Merritt Ale Trail.

I interviewed David and his wife Annamarie while they were in their travel bus in Powell River at the start of a three-week adventure around BC. The answers to my questions below are often a compilation of responses from both of them.

David and Annamarie are the owners of Red Collar Brewing. David describes himself as the grumpy old man, aka master brewer, aka owner at Red Collar Brewing. Annamarie describes herself as Chief Somebody. She is the “somebody that will get that done.”

Over the years, I met David and Annamarie a few times at Okanagan Fest of Ale, while they were at the Noble Pig, dreaming of starting their new brewery, and once they opened Red Collar Brewing. It was great to catch up with them and hear about their latest adventures.

KL: How did you get started in craft beer?

DB: [Back in the 1980s] I was working at a Cancer Clinic in the radiation oncology department. I couldn’t stand it. I didn’t like all of the bureaucracy and I was looking for a change. I had a science background and so I started looking around for opportunities. Shaftebury Brewing had just opened up in Vancouver, so I looked into schools where I could get an education in brewing. There were only three schools in the world that you could go to at that time to get a brewing degree, so I went to Munich in 1989 for school. I was one of the odd ones back in the day in that I got a brewing education before I worked in brewing. Once school was finished, we moved to England where I worked as a research scientist with the Brewing Research Foundation. I also worked for a couple of bigger breweries in the UK, although I found it was also very bureaucratic working for large breweries.

There weren’t a lot of smaller breweries in the UK at that time, but CAMRA was really growing in the UK and more smaller breweries were starting up there. Also back home, there were only a few small breweries, so we decided to head home. I got a job at Okanagan Spring Brewery in Vernon and stayed there for two years and began looking into starting our own brewery.

With the help of some financial partners, we started the first microbrewery in Kamloops in 1994 called Bear Brewing. There were only about eight breweries in BC at that time. We packaged our beer and sold a lot of it on the coast and in Calgary. We sold Bear Brewing in 2003 to Big Rock. I signed a non-compete and couldn’t work in the industry for five years. During this time, I worked with a non-profit organization in Kamloops, and we built homes for seniors. We also bought a 1959 vintage bus and lived in the bus with our kids and travelled around the continent including time in Mexico and Guatemala.

After our travels, we started the Noble Pig Brewhouse in 2010. We ran this food-focused brewpub for about four years. We got out of the Noble Pig because I didn’t want to split my focus anymore. We had a full kitchen. We had beer, wine, spirits, and TVs. Although the Noble Pig provides a great experience for anyone and everyone, we decided we wanted to run an establishment that was 100% beer-focused. We wanted people to come to the brewery and play a game or talk with each other. That’s what beer is for. In Europe, you’d go to beerhalls and there were no TVs. We wanted to go back to that Old World mentality where if you are going out for a beer, then you go out for a beer.

So, we sold our shares of the Noble Pig in January 2014, leaving it in good hands with our former partners. We started the build and renovation of our new brewery on April 1, 2014, and then opened our doors to the public in October 2014.

Our working brewery name was Black Dog after our black lab Goosey. We couldn’t go with that name because of trademark restrictions. Goosey always had a red collar, and that’s how we came up with the name for our brewery.

KL: You’ve spent the better part of three decades in the craft beer industry. How has it changed over the years?

DB: For us old guys that are still around, things have changed dramatically. We’ve gone from a packaged, distribution-based industry, to one of front-of-house breweries. Every brewery that opens now will have a tasting room.

When we had Bear Brewing, we had a 16-head filler, so we were pumping out lots of beer. We distributed our packaged beer to Winnipeg and all over Western Canada. That’s what you did then.

Today the emphasis is not to go big, but to run a brewery that is interesting and fun. Back in the day, it was all about business. But today, it’s more about creating a business while also enjoying a good lifestyle.

As the industry has changed, we’ve also learned how expensive it is to distribute beer. The more you can sell out your front door in your taproom and to pubs and liquor stores in your area, the better chance you’ll have to stay alive financially. It doesn’t matter how good your beer is, you have to make money, or you won’t stay in business. But then of course COVID comes along and impacts sales in taprooms. For us, we are fortunate because 50% to 60% of our beer is sold as a packaged product, so we were still able to sell our beer even with COVID restrictions.

A hundred years ago, every little town had a brewery. That’s because distribution was so difficult back in the day. The whole industry is going back to that. We’ve also seen a real focus on supporting local. We really saw this with the 100-mile diet. I see breweries succeeding because they figure out their own niche. I’d really like to see more lager breweries. I’d love to see a German-lager focused brewery one day.

The other thing that has changed over the years is the beer itself. I remember that at Bear we had a beer called Black Bear. It was a Belgian-style dark beer with cassis and blackberries. Because it was such a different beer than what was available at the time, people asked us who would buy this beer? As people tried it, the demand for this beer grew until it became our bestselling product. Today, there is way more of an appetite for speciality and unique beers. 

KL: How has your brewery been impacted by COVID-19?

DB: We closed the taproom down for about nine weeks, but we had an e-store up and we were self-delivering within 48 hours. We laid off our serving staff during the shutdown, but we brought them all back again once we re-opened. We did not lose one employee as a result of COVID, so we had continuity of our team.

With COVID, we decided not to re-open our kitchen right away. Instead, we encouraged people to go and get takeout from our local downtown businesses. We invited them to bring takeout food and enjoy it with a beer at our brewery. It created a win/win for us and our community.

We also recently hired a new brewer, Nick Serbedzija. We hired him in February, so he only had about six weeks in Kamloops before the lockdown. As a result, he became part of the family very quickly. Most of our staff have been with us for more than a year, and many since we opened our doors.

The thing that makes me the happiest is when I come into work and the staff is happy and they are happy to see me.

KL: What do you think COVID-19 means for the future of BC’s craft brewing industry?

DB: We have so much admiration for the breweries that have opened since COVID started. For those breweries, one thing that we have heard consistently is that their local community has been very supportive. I really hope that COVID inspires even more support [for local businesses]. It’s a trend that I think, and hope, will continue. Having a vibrant downtown core is key for communities to flourish.

There are a lot of inconsistencies in the way that businesses are operating. I’m hoping breweries will be able to develop more acumen for running their businesses. I think COVID has delivered some tough love for some of the breweries. But we as an industry are resilient, and I think they’ll be OK.

KL: What do you have planned for this fall for Red Collar?

DB: COVID has made it tough for many non-profit organizations. We have always had a close affiliation with our local BCSPCA in Kamloops. Nick, our new brewer wanted to brew a new Baltic Porter as his first solo beer. He brewed it, and we didn’t have a name or label sorted. At the same time, our local BCSPCA branch contacted us to see if there was a project we could partner with them on. So, we made this Baltic Porter a BCSPCA fundraiser beer.

We referred to Goosey, who passed away four years ago. After Goosey passed away, we rescued another black lab from the BCSPCA named Diana. We’ve never named a beer after our dog Diana, so this beer will be called Diana. It will come out on November 1^st for our sixth anniversary. It will be available in 650ml bomber bottles in the taproom and at private liquor stores and select regional BC liquor stores. It will also be available on tap in the taproom and local accounts. A portion of the proceeds will go to the BCSPCA.

With this first beer settled, we decided to do this as part of a series to support the BCSPCA. In 2019, we found an abandoned dog in Baja. We rescued her, named her Fidelle, and brought her back to Canada. The second beer in this series will be named Fidelle, and it will be a Mexican Cerveza. We will release it in May 2021 for Cinco de Mayo. The timing of this is around the same time as the Kamloops BCSPCA annual Furball Gala, so again this beer will help support the work they do.

KL: What is it like living in Kamloops?

DB: We live in downtown Kamloops. Because our home is there, we wanted the brewery to also be in the downtown core, and we wanted to be able to have our core customers be able to walk or bike to our brewery. We ourselves walk or bike to and from the brewery. In fact, we only put about 5,000 kilometres a year on our car. To me, this is spectacular. We like being able to walk everywhere. There is densification happening in the downtown core, which is really great to see. There is lots of green space downtown. There are walking trails downtown, and you can walk by the river. We can walk for 20 minutes to amazing hiking. It’s such a juxtaposition from Vancouver and the busyness of the Coast, and it’s something we love about living in Kamloops.

KL: Tell me about some hidden gems in Kamloops?

DB: We have four wineries in Kamloops now. We like going up to Monte Creek Ranch Winery. The view is nice, and the winery building is lovely. We will often have business meetings there, or we’ll go and have a picnic lunch there. You can take a winery tour and go from winery to winery, and they will often stop at a brewery along the way.

We also really enjoy biking and walking along the Rivers Trail. We also like Kenna Cartwright Nature Park which has extensive hiking trails.

Kamloops is a real hub for outdoor activities. There is incredible skiing, hiking, and bike riding. Lots of people really enjoy floating on the river. If you are bored in Kamloops, you just need to get outside. I read recently that there are more than 100 fishing lakes within an hour of Kamloops. There is also a lot of camping within the area.

We also suggest visitors to Kamloops take a walk within the downtown core. Check out the shops and the wide range of restaurants. Go for a walk and burn off some calories so you can enjoy the beer.

KL: What’s next for you?

DB: As we approach our 60s, our era in the brewing industry is coming to a close. A lot of the guys I got started with in this industry are retiring and leaving the industry. We both have parents that we need to support, and we are looking towards the future as we start to plan for our retirement. So, we are in a transition right now.

Our big focus is the transition to the next generation who will run the brewery. We have a new team that is running the brewery, and we are trying to let them. This new team includes our eldest daughter Lara, who manages the day-to-day operations and is the glue between all of the departments, our second daughter Tessa, who runs the taproom, Nick who is our head brewer, and John who is our head of sales. We have spent a lot of time creating job descriptions for these roles, and we have been doing a lot to work to prepare for the transition.

We are trying to limit our work time to 20 hours a week. When we are at work, we do everything we can to help the team. We help run the bottling line, we help with brewing, we help with whatever needs to be done.

We are doing a bit of a test now with us being on the road travelling for the next three weeks. We’re available to support them, but we’re not physically in Kamloops. It’s pretty exciting to see the evolution of our business as the next generation steps in.

KL: Who else in the craft beer industry do you find interesting and why?

DB: One of my favourite breweries in BC is Townsite Brewing in Powell River. I think their Belgian Tripel is the best beer made in BC right now. We were just at their brewery yesterday, and we had a Cherry Wheat Beer that was stunning. It’s such a unique brewery. They’ve expanded their taproom since we were there last. We really admire Chloe and Cédric. They are living in a great little town, raising their family, and running this great brewery. They serve their community and they are such a hub in Powell River.

Stay tuned for the next instalment of the Hops Among Friends blog series, where I speak with Chloe and Cédric from Townsite Brewing. Until then, cheers!

The post Hops Among Friends: David Beardsell of Red Collar Brewing appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

You will find seven unique craft breweries in the triangle between Kamloops, Shuswap and Vernon. From the community of Kamloops, across to Salmon Arm and then down to Vernon, this triangular region of interior British Columbia is geographically diverse and each brewery reflects its own individual approach. BC Ale Trail declares you will “Arrive Thirsty, Leave Inspired” and that is exactly what happened to us on our trip!

Response to COVID-19

We are now in Phase 3 of the provincial recovery plan in BC and it is important to note that British Columbians are safe to travel within the province. We must remain smart, safe, and respectful when we return to travel and tourism within BC.

Our travels within the Kamloops, Shuswap and Vernon regions made us feel very safe in terms of COVID-19 precautions and we observed everyone taking all necessary steps to prevent the spread of the virus. Here are the practices and protocols we observed in every restaurant and brewery we visited:

• Our contact details were recorded at each venue to ensure contact tracing.
• The required 2m/6ft distance was maintained between chairs and an explanation was given to us as to not get up from our table to wander or socialize.
• Every table and all chairs were sanitized between seatings, along with high touch areas.
• Staff members were washing and sanitizing their hands between tables, before serving food, taking away touched menus, processing payments or dealing with cash and clearing tables.
• Each venue maintained a limit of 6 people per group at each table.
• It was commonplace to see servers, bartenders, chefs and patrons wearing masks.

What makes Kamloops, Shuswap and Vernon a fantastic tourist destination right now is the availability of outdoor activities. The vast amount of lakes, water sports, hiking trails, mountain biking, and golf courses make this area much safer with all of their fresh air activities.

Follow the BC Ale Trail’s Beer Triangle

The Kamloops, Shuswap, Vernon triangle trail is located in BC’s Thompson-Okanagan region. This region is located in the interior of BC and is a popular tourist destination with a sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle, and a diverse economy based on agriculture. We spent 5 days eating, drinking, and adventuring throughout this region. Here’s how you can too!

Day 1 – Travel to Vernon

Vernon, British Columbia is a hidden gem that is surrounded by crystal clear lakes and enjoys an amazingly sunny climate. Vernon is a small city with tons to see and do. It has a small-town vibe and offers world-class amenities which makes it an incredibly charming town to visit. And you are going to find fabulous BC craft beer here!

Vernon is a fantastic city to visit year-round and each season offers its own adventures. The spring offers amazing hiking and biking through trails covered in blooms. The summers are hot and dry and Vernon is surrounded by crystal clear, warm water lakes to enjoy swimming and water sports. This area is known for its agriculture and the fall season allows you to enjoy its beautiful harvest. The area is covered in powdery snow in the winter and there are nearby ski hills to enjoy.

Dinner at Marten Brewing Company

Marten Brewing Company is a gorgeous craft beer micro-brewery and is located in the heart of downtown Vernon. The brewmasters at Marten Brewing are continually revolving their taps, offering their core beers, variations of fan favourites, pilot brews, and mysterious batches. They offer full-bodied beers, with no preservatives and no additives, which are all naturally carbonated and unfiltered. We loved their wide variety of craft beers and appreciated how smooth they all were.

This is a gorgeous venue with seating for 200 people on two levels surrounding and overlooking the brewery in the middle of the room. There is no denying that their flavourful BC craft beer is the focal point here.

Beer and food Highlights:

A huge stand-out for us was their Rail Trail Apricot Ale. It is a bright yellow ale with hints of apricot and mandarin orange. We also loved the Rough and Dirty Red Ale, which just happens to be a fan favourite. This ale has a beautiful red colour and is malt-forward, with a hint of hops at the end.

The Pork & Pine Pizza may just be the best pizza we have ever had. It is their take on a Hawaiian, but they use smoked pulled pork with grilled pineapple and tomato barbeque sauce.

Hotel – Prestige Vernon Lodge

Spend a night at the inviting Prestige Vernon Lodge. The hotel has a stunning atrium with over 1,000 plants, a pool, and a hot tub to create a gorgeous atmosphere and relaxing fun for the whole family. Vernon Lodge incorporates the nearby creek as a key element of its design, offering a constant flow of natural water streaming in from outside. A stay at The Prestige Vernon Lodge is ideal as it is the perfect base to explore nearby downtown Vernon and all the outdoor adventures this town offers.

Day 2– Explore Vernon and Salmon Arm

Breakfast at EATology

EATology is a popular breakfast and lunch spot and caters to a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan-friendly meals. The key to their delicious menu is using fresh and local ingredients.

Breakfast Highlights:

The absolute biggest, fluffiest and creamiest Buttermilk Pancakes you have ever had. A super fresh and healthy Cobb Salad, topped with a poached egg.

Hiking at Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park is situated along the Coldstream Valley and showcases North Okanagan’s beautiful grasslands. The park is 3,218 hectares and has over 14 km of trails to explore. The park is abundant with plant-life, animals and reptiles, including rattlesnakes (so make sure to tuck in your pants!). Spend the day exploring the three beaches, swimming, or paddling in the warm waters, and have lunch in the picnic area complete with washroom facilities.

Lunch at Davison Orchards Farm House Cafe

Davison Orchards Country Village is a truly unique and iconic landmark in Vernon. This orchard grows a huge variety of apples, as well as other fruits like peaches, cherries, apricots, pears, cantaloupes, watermelon, pumpkins and more.

Take a tractor ride through the orchard for a guided tour showing you how all of their produce grows. The village also has a country market and gift shop, petting zoo, playground, fresh baked goods, real fruit ice cream, 100% pure apple juice, and a market selling all of their own produce.

Do not leave without a stop at the Davison Orchards Farm House Cafe. The cafe is located in the original farmhouse built in 1946. They serve amazing homemade lunches, co!ees and baked goods. And many of their menu items have zero food miles, as they are made with ingredients grown and prepared right from their farm. Enjoy your meal inside or on one of two spectacular patios overlooking the orchards and beautiful Okanagan Valley.

Lunch Highlights:

The orchard makes their own 100% pure apple juice and the cafe had turned this juice into a delicious drink called the Applelanche. It’s a pure apple juice slush with no sugar added. Heavenly!

Coffee at Ratio Coffee

Before hitting the road to Shuswap, make sure you stop in at Ratio Coffee for a delicious coffee & homemade pastry. They have created a warm and inviting atmosphere with amazing customer service.

Coffee Highlights:

We loved that they can make an iced version of any of their coffees. We enjoyed an amazing Iced Mocha here.

Travel to Shuswap

The Shuswap area of British Columbia sits just north of Okanagan where Canada’s longest highways meet. The Shuswap region is made up of eight communities including North Shuswap, South Shuswap, Salmon Arm, Sicamous & Eagle Valley, Armstrong & Spallumcheen, Chase, Enderby and Falkland. What they all have in common is the gorgeous Shuswap Lake.

The Shuswap region is beautiful, casual and down-to-earth. There is no end to exploring here – breweries serving up BC craft beer, wineries, hot springs, rolling farms, artists, mountains and meadows.

Explore Salmon Arm Wharf and Downtown Salmon Arm

Take a stroll down the Salmon Arm Wharf – the largest wooden wharf in North America. You will be rewarded with stunning views of Shuswap Lake. Explore Downtown Salmon Arm which is full of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Dinner at Barley Station Brew Pub

Barley Station Brew Pub is an incredibly welcoming brewpub and you feel its warmth as soon as you walk in. The building is designed to resemble a heritage train station and is surrounded by a colourful flower garden. We loved all of their craft beer and all of their food. It is top-notch and they have the awards to prove it, including a gold medal at the Canadian Brewing Awards.

Beer Highlights:

This brewery offers great flights and we were able to sample each one of their core beers. Our overall favourite was the Talking Dog Wit Beer. This Belgian style ale is created from the use of coriander and orange rind placed in the boil. The cloudy appearance is a result of the use of locally grown winter wheat.

We were lucky to be there in the mid-summer to enjoy their seasonal Raspberry Blonde Ale. Extremely refreshing, light, and fruity.

Hotel – Prestige Harbourfront Resort Salmon Arm

The Prestige Harbourfront Resort in Salmon Arm is located on the banks of a nature estuary with unobstructed views of Shuswap Lake and Bastion Mountains. You can enjoy this view from one of the many lake-view rooms or on a stroll down the boardwalk located behind the hotel.

We loved the location of the Prestige Harbourfront Resort as it is right beside the Salmon Arm Wharf and just a few blocks from downtown’s shopping and dining offerings.

The hotel has made it is easy to enjoy year-round with an indoor and outdoor pool, outdoor hot tub, spa and salon, athletic club and complimentary bikes, sporting equipment, board games and beach toys.

Day 3 – Explore the Shuswap

Breakfast at Eco Treats

Eco Treats is the perfect breakfast stop for a hand crafted espresso, home made organic baked goods and scratch made paninis, soups, salads, and light breakfasts.

Coffee Highlights:

We are coffee freaks and we love it when a little extra passion is put into our coffee. Eco Treats has seriously gorgeous latte art, making our drinks even more special.

Kayak on Little Shuswap Lake

Quaaout Lodge is located on the shores of Little Shuswap Lake. It’s guests have access to their beach, canoes, and kayaks. There are other public access points so you are able to paddle around and enjoy the quiet waters on Little Shuswap Lake.

Lunch at Jack Sam’s Restaurant at Quaaout Lodge

Jack Sam’s Restaurant at Quaaout Lodge puts an emphasis on the freshest high-quality ingredients and on locally inspired culinary traditions including Indigenous foods. They truly embody the word “Waytk” meaning “Hello” with their welcoming atmosphere.

You will enjoy your dining experience while being surrounded with the beauty of their wilderness. They also serve up some delicious BC craft beer.

Lunch Highlights:

This was our first Wedge Salad and I am officially converted. The perfect combination of sweet, smokey, and tart with Helmut’s Maple Bacon, crispy shallot, red onion, candied walnut, smokey egg, Tanto Latte ricotta, maple and sherry vinegar reduction.

The Riverfresh Lingcod Fish and Chips were cooked to perfection. A crispy beer batter and house cut fries. The restaurant also serves a perfect bannock which is a traditional Indigenous fry bread.

Tour of Crannog Ales Brewery

Crannog Ales is a very special place. It is Canada’s first certified organic farmhouse microbrewery and is one of only a handful of such breweries in the world. Here they only brew organic ales, focusing on local and seasonal specialty ingredients, most of which come from their own farm. The brewery was founded by Rebecca Kneen and Brian McIsaac. Their experiences growing their own hops led Rebecca to publish a manual on hop growing, which has actually helped to revive hop growing all throughout British Columbia.

The entire operation is sustainable and the farm and the brewery operate as one entity. Even the farm’s pigs eat much of the brewery’s by-products. They have a purposeful decision not to grow beyond the footprint of their farm itself. The brewery’s water is special too. It comes from a well on the farm which is fed by numerous springs both on and next to the land. This water helps to give their ales a genuine old-world flavour.

Make sure to plan your visit well ahead of time as tours and tastings are by appointment only on Fridays and Saturdays between 1:00 and 3:30.

Beer Highlights:

We loved the Red Branch Irish Ale which is a rich, red ale made in the Irish tradition. With hints of caramel and chocolate malts, you will love this smooth ale.

Travel to Kamloops

Kamloops, British Columbia is an absolutely gorgeous city that is surrounded by rolling hills covered in fragrant sagebrush. This region is known for its rugged landscape and outdoor activities, most notably its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail network.

Like many regions nearby, Kamloops is surrounded by fresh water, so be sure to swim, paddle, or cast a line on one of Kamloops’ 100+ fishing lakes. The climate, agriculture, and vibrant population of Kamloops come together to create seriously incredible BC craft beer.

Dinner at Bright Eye Brewing

Bright Eye Brewing is a feast for the eyes. The tasting room is gorgeous and features a live tree, a beautiful mural by a local artist, and a refurbished Austin Mini hanging on the wall.

Bright Eye features a fresh, ever-changing variety of innovative beers served right from the tanks they were made in. And the food is spectacular. You can tell they put just as much focus on their food menu as they do on their delicious craft beers.

Beer and Food Highlights:

A small but defining detail at Bright Eye is their glassware. Unique, delicate and beautiful.

The Seshun nordic pale ale and Bright: Idaho 7 hazy pale ale stood out as our favourite beers. Super smooth and refreshing.

The food at Bright Eye is delicious. We loved their Nashville Hot Chicken Drums and Spicy Chicken Sandwich, which are both truly authentic to the Hot Chicken in Nashville.

Hotel – Sandman Signature Kamloops

The Sandman Signature Kamloops hotel is where you need to be. It is an elegant building in the heart of downtown Kamloops. It faces Riverside Park and the Thompson River and is situated directly across the street from Sandman Centre, home of the Kamloops Blazers.

They have all the amenities you are looking for – Jacuzzi suites, an indoor swimming pool and hot tub and large gym.

Evening – Explore Downtown Kamloops

The Back Alley Art Mural Tour features 31 diverse art murals as a part of an eclectic collection along the back alleys in Downtown Kamloops. You will find all types of different artistic styles in this outdoor art gallery.

Scoopz Ice Cream is the best ice cream parlour in Kamloops. It is conveniently located in the Sandman Signature Hotel and across from Riverside Park.

Riverside Park is located steps away from the downtown core and runs along the Thompson River. It’s a beautifully manicured park where you can enjoy the beach, the picnic area, playground, tennis and splash pad. If you are lucky, you can catch the “Music in the Park” held nightly throughout the summer at the Rotary Bandshell.

Day 4 – Kamloops and Surroundings

Breakfast at The Art We Are Cafe

Situated right in downtown Kamloops, this is the cutest cafe around. The Art We Are Cafe is a small business that supports other small businesses. They do their best to source their ingredients from other local and BC based businesses. It all comes together to make a menu full of fresh, healthy and flavourful food.

And they are more than just a cafe. They also have live music most Saturdays, local art displayed all around the store, and other events like open mic nights, fundraisers, art shows, and speaker series.

Breakfast Highlights:

We love that their coffee is made with a french press (our preferred coffee brewing method) and they give you the entire french press to take to your table. They have amazing chocolate haystacks – just like Momma makes.

Hike up Battle Bluff

The hike up Battle Bluff was definitely a highlight of our Kamloops trip. The Battle Bluff hike is one of the most popular hikes in Kamloops and we totally understand why. The payoff is the breathtaking 360 view of Kamloops city and Kamloops Lake.

This out and back trail is about 5 km, takes about 1.5 hours and is rated moderate difficulty. It is a fairly easy hike until the end which gets quite steep.

The hike has great features. Watch out for two old rusted cars, a memorial at the top with a guestbook you can sign, look for the trains below passing along Kamloops lake and travelling through carved out tunnels, and keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep.

Lunch at Iron Road Brewing

Iron Road Brewing is a super popular brewery for people of all ages. They have a very welcoming and comfortable tasting room that also serves up an amazing Mexican-themed menu.

The name of the brewery is an homage to the busy railroad that passes through Kamloops. Some of their core beers even have train-themed names.

Beer Highlights:

We fell in love with the Handcar ISA. It is aromatic, super flavourful and has a subtle fruitiness.

The Mexican food here is delicious and creates the perfect light snacks to accompany a mid-day beer. Our favourite was the Carnitas Baja Taco with hot banana peppers and Baja chipotle sauce.

Explore Bruker Marina at Kamloops Lake

Bruker Marina is on Kamloops Lake and situated right beside BC’s #1 golf course, Tobiano. The marina offers boat moorage, a public boat launch and a beach area. You can also hire boat charters, get motorsport lessons, and find rentals for boats, Seadoos, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Kamloops Lake is a gorgeous warm-water lake and you can spend a whole day here enjoying it.

Stop in for a Beer at Red Collar Brewing

Brewmaster, David Beardsell, has a long history of brewing in Kamloops dating back to the 1990s. He actually opened the city’s first microbrewery. He has now opened Red Collar Brewing in downtown Kamloops.

Red Collar has an 80-seat tasting room and a big, beautiful outdoor patio space. The craft beer list is large, diverse and had some of our favourite beers of the whole trip.

Beer Highlights:

We were pleasantly surprised by the Blonde – a medium-bodied ale with a crisp, dry finish. It had more flavour than a regular blonde yet was still light and refreshing.

The Impeachment Peach Witbier was another favourite of ours. Everything you crave from a white, cloudy beer with a hint of peach.

Dinner at The Noble Pig Brewhouse

You know as soon as you walk in that The Noble Pig Brewhouse is a local favourite. It is vibrant, modern and popular. The restaurant and outdoor “Piggy Patio” are enormous and allow for lots of fun to be had.

They say it best, and The Noble Pig truly is “The marriage between beautiful food and unique beer“. This brewpub has incredible house-made beers and a delectable food menu using only the best ingredients.

Beer and Food Highlights:

One of their 3 core beers, the Straw House is a traditional German lager which we thought was the perfect balance between crisp and bitter.

One of their seasonal brews is a Grapefruit Radler. Not too sweet and it made for the perfect refreshing drink at the end of a hot day.

Everything we ordered o! the food menu was killer. The Intergalactic Pretzels were so incredibly soft and buttery. The Rosemary & Garlic Dry Ribs were meaty, crispy and super flavourful. And the Pad Thai was better than any we’ve had from any Thai restaurant.

Hotel – Sandman Signature Kamloops for a second night.

Day 5 – Leaving the BC Craft Beer Triangle

Breakfast at the Red Beard Cafe

The Red Beard Cafe is the perfect Sunday brunch spot. They have a huge variety of “from scratch” food items and even make their own breads and pastries.

The cafe is also open late and becomes a taphouse featuring 18 taps of rotating Kamloops and BC craft beer and cider.

Breakfast Highlights:

A must-try is the cafes homemade bagels with butter and jam. The bagels are fresh, soft and chewy.

Landsdowne Liquor Store

Before you head home, make sure to stop by the Landsdowne Liquor Store to grab all of your favourite local brews from this BC craft beer triangle. They have the largest craft beer selection in Kamloops and even stock some seasonal beers!

Know before you go

As you plan a late summer holiday or long weekend on the BC Ale Trail, make sure to look up important information about the area you’re visiting and check on cancellation policies. Practice safe and respectful travelling as you explore the communities in our wild backyard that are open to visitors and make sure to be a considerate craft beer consumer while you’re out and about.

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