Set on the traditional territory of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ and lovingly called “Ukee” (you-key) by locals, this west coast town is a true safe harbour for all walks of life. And at the edge of the Pacific, in a beautifully restored church overlooking the inlet, you’ll find Ucluelet Brewing Company.

It’s more than just a brewery. It’s a gathering place for the community. A local landmark where tourists and locals feel equally at home. Hikers, kayakers, fishers, beachcombers, newcomers, and old friends all come together here to raise a glass and enjoy each other’s company.

Whether you’re wrapping up an afternoon on the Wild Pacific Trail or easing into the evening after a stormy morning, Ucluelet Brewing is where stories are shared and the beer is always good.

A Sacred Space, Reimagined

The brewery’s home, once St. Aidan On-the-Hill, is as iconic as the beer it now houses. Originally built in 1929 as the smallest church on Vancouver Island, the building was expanded in the 1950s using salvaged wood from a WWII seaplane base in an early act of community sustainability that still echoes through the space. After decades as the town’s smallest church, youth center and event space, it was retired in 2010 and then rescued by local builder Leif Hagar and friends who saw its soul and set out to reawaken it.

By early 2020, the brewery opened its doors. It quickly became a staple in the community, offering BC craft beer lovers a welcoming, accessible, and energetic place to share stories, raise a glass, and feel like you belong.

Inside, you can still feel the church’s bones. The bar and kitchen are fronted with original joists pulled from the very floor where the brewing equipment now stands. The coveted booth beneath the bell tower has heard its share of salt-stained stories, and the beer lineup offers playful nods to the past with names like Seventh Day Kölsch, Resurrection Red Ale, and St. Aidan’s Porter.

A Home for the Community

From the beginning, Ucluelet Brewing has been rooted in something deeper than just good beer. Located on Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ territory, the brewery is mindful of the land, waters, and people who have called this part of the island home for generations. That sense of respect carries through everything they do.

They play an active role in the community by supporting local events like Ukee Days, the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, and the West Coast Longboard Competition. They back organizations including Redd Fish Restoration Society, Surfrider, the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, and the Ucluelet Aquarium. They also contribute to local safety efforts through groups like West Coast Inland Search and Rescue and the Tofino General Hospital Foundation.

From hosting a fundraiser, sponsoring a community event, or simply offering a warm space to gather, Ucluelet Brewing shows up with care and consistency. It’s a place built with intention, grounded in community, and connected to the land it stands on.

Brewing With Purpose

Built into the daily operations, sustainability is more than a buzzword for Ucluelet Brewing. Certified by the Surfrider Ocean Friendly Business program, the brewery focuses on reducing waste and supporting the local economy. Their initiatives include a Pak-Tek holder return program, strong recycling efforts, and environmentally-conscious brewing processes. Spent grain is composted, given to local pig farmers, or repurposed into homemade dog treats.

Even the merchandise tells a story. Every piece is sourced and printed locally, with the intention of keeping dollars in the community. Beverage options extend beyond beer, too. Guests can sip Tofino Kombucha, local wines, Island spirits, and non-alcoholic options that reflect the region’s diversity.

In the kitchen, the menu reflects the region itself. Dishes showcase local ingredients, with everything from ocean catches to foraged finds and thoughtfully raised BC meats showcasing fresh, seasonal and full-flavour bites. The offerings shift with the seasons, giving both locals and visitors something new to look forward to.

The brewing team keeps things fresh behind the bar with a rotating selection of craft beers. Crisp lagers, hop-forward IPAs and rich, malty ales reflect a mix of creativity, skill, and a deep love for the craft in every pour.

Exploring Ukee: Where Adventure Ends with a Pint

Ucluelet invites you to slow down and take it all in. That’s part of what makes Ucluelet Brewing the perfect base camp on the island. After a full day out in the fresh air, that pint feels well-earned.

Start your morning with a coffee from Foggy Bean, located just downstairs in the same building. From there, stroll down to the harbour or swing by Ukee Snack Shack for a quick bite before hitting the trail or heading out on the water. Need gear? Relic Surf Shop and Long Beach Surf Shop have what you need. Looking for something fun or unexpected? The Crow’s Nest is a favourite for browsing and picking up something special.

A day in Ucluelet might include a paddle along the coast, a walk through mossy forest trails, or a few rounds on Ucluelet’s new 9-hole disc golf course. However you spend your time, it all leads back to that cold sip at the brewery.

On sunny afternoons, the patio looks out over Č̓um̓aat̓a (Mount Ozzard) and the Ucluelet Inlet. When the weather cools down, the vibe moves indoors. Board games come out, the space fills with laughter, and the brewery’s cozy charm really shines.

Time your visit just right, and you might catch live music, a local art show, or one of the many community events that make the brewery feel like the heart of town.

More Than a Brewery

There’s a quiet pride in the way Ucluelet Brewing operates. It shows in the thoughtful renovations, the quality of the beer, the consistency of its community involvement, and the welcoming way they treat everyone who walks through the doors.

When a brewery becomes a local landmark and a community gathering spot all at once, you know there’s something special happening.

The next time you find yourself on the west coast of Vancouver Island heading towards Tofino, carve out some time for Ucluelet. Let the ocean air clear your mind, let the forest trails stretch your legs, and let a cold pint remind you that you may come for the coast, but it’s places like Ucluelet Brewing that make you want to stay a little longer.

Find the community of Ucluelet and Ucluelet Brewing Company on the Pacific Rim Ale Trail.

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post Tides & Taps: Ucluelet’s Coastal Gathering Place appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Maybe it’s the way the vineyards catch the light or the warm breeze that rolls in from the valley floor. But for hundreds of people this summer, July means one thing: the Hop to Vine Hustle. Equal parts fun run, wine tasting, brewery crawl, and finish-line dance party, this lighthearted event is helping put Creston on the map as one of BC’s hidden gems for food, drink, and community connection.

Returning on July 5, 2025, the Hop to Vine Hustle is organized by the Creston Valley Libation Producers Society and led by Lisa Wood, co-owner of Wild North Brewing Co. The event blends fun and fitness with a true sense of community pride. Featuring eight tasting locations spread along an 11-kilometre scenic route and a lively after-party in Millennium Park, the Hustle is one of the Creston Valley’s biggest summer events.

“We just want people to have fun. We tell people: take your time, walk, enjoy yourself, enjoy Creston, and come back to visit us again,” Lisa shares. “We really just hope people finish the event feeling good about themselves!”

Sip, Sample, Stroll, and Dance it Out

The Hop to Vine Hustle isn’t your typical race. For starters, it’s not really a race at all. Most participants walk (or dance) the full route, many run it, enjoying eight complimentary libation tastings, snacks, and opportunities to win prizes along the way. Stops include two local breweries, four wineries, a distillery and a bonus ‘Sangria with a view’ station after the route’s steepest incline. Those providing the libations this year are Baillie Grohman Estate Winery, Skimmerhorn Winery and Vineyard, Wild North Brewing Co., Red Bird Estate Winery, William Tell Family Estate, Sternwheeler Craft Distillery and Columbia Brewery.

Costumes are encouraged, and contagious laughter is guaranteed. The route winds through downtown Creston and the surrounding areas, offering scenic views and a casual atmosphere. Everything culminates in the finish line After Party at Millennium Park with food trucks, live music, massage booths, and a tasting garden. Instead of medals, finishers each receive a branded glass to use at the celebration.

There are limited tickets still available for this year’s event. Participants can choose between a full entry package with access to all eight tasting stops, snacks, a picnic lunch, and entry to the After Party, or just join in the celebrations at Millennium Park with a dedicated After Party ticket.

Wild North Brewing is a Community Hub

Lisa’s commitment to the community is at the heart of everything she does.

Wild North Brewing, which she co-founded with her husband Craig, occupies a renewed former transit depot in the centre of Creston. Launched during the pandemic, the brewery quickly became a welcoming gathering place where locals could meet, share quality craft beer, and enjoy the kind of conversation that strengthens community ties.

Wild North has always been more than just a taproom. Rooted in their love for the Creston Valley, Lisa and Craig set out to make beer that reflects the community around them. From food vendors and wineries to local trades and artisans, Wild North brews are a collaborative effort. Every pint tells a story of the Valley, filled with friendship, adventure, and really great beer.

This desire to elevate the region is what inspired the creation of the Creston Valley Libation Producers Society. Together, producers share ideas, support one another’s events, and promote the Creston Valley as a worthy destination. It’s grassroots tourism, built one partnership at a time.

Community Impact and Small Business Support

The impact of the Hop to Vine Hustle reaches far beyond the breweries and wineries. In past years, over 50% of event attendees have been from out of town, which means more overnight stays, more meals in local restaurants, and more opportunities for small businesses to shine.

“Partly to beat the heat, partly to give attendees more time to explore Creston, we start earlier in the day and wrap up the After Party by 5 pm, leaving lots of time for people to get out and enjoy even more of Creston,” Lisa notes. “We want to spread the love around. Let the whole community benefit from the event!”

The event does more than support the local economy. It builds connection. The Hop to Vine Hustle is a clear example of what’s possible when local businesses, volunteers, and organizers rally around a shared vision. It has quickly become a standout on Creston’s summer calendar.

“This event brings people together,” Lisa says. “We’re seeing new faces in town. They’re staying overnight, they’re eating dinner here, and they’re coming back to visit us again and again.”

The Society’s efforts extend throughout the year. From the success of past Creston Libations Tour Passports to ongoing collaborations among the wineries, distilleries, and breweries, their focus remains on strengthening the Valley’s identity and inviting others to experience it firsthand.

Helping Visitors Discover the Real Creston

Creston may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of wine or beer destinations in BC, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the road trip. With unexpected natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a growing roster of passionate producers, this corner of the Kootenays is carving out a space for itself on the craft beverage map.

From vineyard views and mountain hikes to local sips and bites and a walkable downtown core, Creston has all the charm of a small town with a whole lot of flavour. The Hop to Vine Hustle is just one of many reasons to visit.

Whether you’re lacing up your runners and donning a tutu for the full 11K route or just showing up for the After Party, this July 5 is your chance to experience the Valley at its most vibrant. Get your tickets, pack your costume, and raise a glass with the people who are proud to call Creston home.

Plan Your Stay in the Creston Valley
Ready to experience the Hop to Vine Hustle and everything else the Creston Valley has to offer? Make the most of your visit by staying beyond the race and immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality this region is known for. From comfortable hotels and motels to charming bed and breakfasts with personalized service, or serene RV parks and campgrounds for those who prefer connecting with nature, Creston has accommodations to suit every traveller.

Explore more of the Creston Valley: Hike scenic trails, paddle along serene rivers, or perfect your swing on lush golf courses. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound for birders and wildlife lovers. Discover the world-renowned wetlands of the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, vast mountain forests, and the majestic Kootenay Lake. Savour more local flavours and farm-fresh delights at charming fruit stands and local farms, and immerse yourself in local culture at museums & galleries.

Want to learn more about the Hop to Vine Hustle, Wild North Brewing, or visiting the Creston Valley? Head to Explore Creston Valley or Wild North Brewing for more info.

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post From Hops to Heart: Creston’s Hop to Vine Hustle Brings the Community Together 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.