PACA Explores Vernon's Trail Networks - Join Us!

Hello Riders

Hankering for a quick and convenient 'Get Outta' Dodge' weekend? We know just the gig!

PACA has been chomping at the bit to ride Vernon's parkland trail networks and do some paddling to boot (two great lakes to choose from - Okanagan and Kalamalka). To that end, we suggest spending a fun-filled weekend with us in Vernon's Ellison and Kalamalka Provincial Parks, riding the heck out of their many well-marked trails, enjoying comradery, a campfire and perhaps even exploring the High Rim trail while we are in the area.

We also encourage you to bring along your kayaks, canoes and paddle-boards, as the area's two beautiful lakes offer excellent paddling. We can car-pool to save fuel if folks wish, and I have a trailer that can haul two more kayaks / canoes / bikes.

We've enjoyed lengthy discussions with Cynthia Kapicki, the current president of the North Okanagan Cycling Society (Vernon bike club) and she has extended their club’s hospitality during our visit. Their club's previous president was the local Parks Canada ranger, thus the club is in the fortuitous position of having a wide selection of excellent and fully sanctioned trails within both parkland areas. We'll stay at Ellison Lake Provincial Park, as it sports hot showers :-)

I've checked the calendar, and the dates of June 3rd, 4th and 5th (Friday / Sat. / Sun.) do not conflict with anything notable. These dates are early enough to beat the summer heat as well as the deluge of tourists / school kids.

We'll drive up Friday after work, do a short hike / paddle or ride & feast, wake up Saturday; do the same, and then spend Sunday doing whatever the heck we want, driving back that evening. Ellison Provincial Park accepts reservations; sunset is after 9pm on those dates.

Consider this a kick-start to the PACA 2011 membership drive, as participants are required to be PACA members in order to participate - it’s an insurance thing. Annual PACA dues are $40.00, of which $37.00 goes to cover your yearly insurance. Riders can split up into beginner / intermediate and advanced groups, as the Vernon area offers roads and trails for all skill levels.

Please confirm your interest in this outing before May 15th in order that I may advance book an appropriate number of group campsites.

About Ellison Provincial Park; www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/ellison

Parks 100 Event - https://cdnav.dc1.netfirms.com/BikeClub/pdfs/parks100.pdf

PACA

250.486.2443