Travel tips, travel advice and travel trends for the Nicola Valley and the City of Merritt BC

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Living with Bears in Merritt BC Canada

Bears in Merritt BC Canada

How to safely live with Bears in Merritt & throughout the Nicola Valley

Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee saves lost black bear cub named “Merritt”

Safely living with Bears in Merritt BC Canada brought to you with the help of Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee. Everyone can live in harmony with the Bears who share our habitat. This fall I was very fortunate to meet Lydia Koot and Cecilia Fraga from the Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee. Coincidentally, these two amazing women are volunteers who are passionate advocates for all wildlife. Recently they both traveled from Hope BC in the early morning hours to rescue a black bear cub we named “Merritt”.  A very adorable cub who was running around on the Bench. Lost and motherless, this little cub probably wouldn’t of survived the winter.

“Bear awareness can save our Bears” Tania Stewart, eco blogger with Experience Nicola Valley

Bears in Merritt BC

Hope Mountain volunteer Cecilia Fraga.

hope mountain black bear

Lydia Koot Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee.

Bears in Merritt BC: How we can reduce human-bear conflicts in Merritt BC Canada.

experiencemerritt

Follow some simple steps from Hope Mountain black bear committee :
  •  Store garbage , including recycle bin in garage or a secure location.
  •  Only place garbage & recycle bins in the morning of pickup.
  •  Remove bird feeders during bear season. ( mid May-to mid November).
  •  Turn compost often. Don’t add any cooked food, dairy, or fish to compost.
  •  Keep pet food inside or in a bear resistant container.
  •  Pick ripe and fallen fruit daily. Remove unused fruit trees.
  •  Clean your barbecues after each use, cover and store if possible.
  •  Keep refrigerators & freezers inside.
  •  Use electric fencing to protect small live stock or fruit trees. Refer to local by-laws for restriction on electric fencing.
Bears in Merritt BC Canada

Little cub named “Merritt”

Important to realize “If you see a Bear”. Living with bears in Merritt BC. Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee. Lydia Koot. 

  •  Stay calm, don’t panic.
  •  Don’t yell. Speak calmly to let bear know you are nearby.
  •  Never approach a bear and do not run from it.
  •  Back away slowly, moving in the direction you came from.
  •  Go indoors with your children and pets immediately.
  •  Warn others about the presence of bear.
  •  Once bear has left area, check your yard to make sure there are no attractions available such as fruit.
Black bears in Merritt BC

Hiding in tree, “Merritt”.

“Problem bears” do not naturally exist, they are created by humans who allow them access to food. Lydia Koot.

Importantly call the Conservation Officer Service.

merritt bc conservation officer

Dedicated Merritt Conservation Officer.

If a bear is threatening please call the conservation officer service at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277) or your local police. The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) is a public safety provider focused on natural resource law enforcement and human wildlife conflicts prevention and response. Our vision is to be a progressive and respected leader in environmental compliance and enforcement, shared stewardship and public safety.

Once conditioned to look for “Easy” food from humans the bear usually becomes a public safety hazard. It is the bear that pays for human mistakes with it’s life. Lydia Koot.

To emphasize.

Whether you are camping, biking, hiking or just enjoying the out-doors. Respect all wildlife and how your footprint impacts your environment. Seeing a bear in its natural habitat can be amazing. A memorable  experience. Above all avoid encounters by making noise, let wildlife hear you. Never hike alone, and always be alert. Look for signs of bears, such as claw marks on trees, scat (fresh that is), logs ripped apart and overturned rocks.

Remember: In B.C. it is an offence to feed or leave attractants available to dangerous wildlife. Lydia Koot.

merritt bear in nicola valley

Remove bird feeders.

Merritt BC Canada wildlife

Pick all fruit trees.

Another key point.

Although a bear cub may look adorable and cute. They are wild and even though small could do a lot of damage if provoked. Importantly to call conservation officer or local police to deal with bear. Additionally knowing “Black Bear” facts. Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee.

  •  Black bears have variations of colors from black, brown, blonde and cinnamon.
  •  Have good eyesight.
  •  Sense of smell is 10x stronger than a bloodhound.
  •  Will stand on their back legs to better identify what is in front of them.
  •  Can run faster than you, and change direction quickly.
  •  Are strong swimmers.
  •  Are highly curious and intelligent.

“If I don’t like my neighbour, I cannot go to the RCMP and tell them, ‘Look, could you please take that neighbour away because I don’t like him,’ ” said Koot. “Well, that’s the same with wildlife. We live in wildlife country, so we cannot just go and shoot any animals that happen to walk to town, or go and build a wall around it.” Lydia Koot.

bears in merritt

Cub in a tree.

In conclusion

Everyone can live in harmony with the Bears who share our habitat.  With some education provided from Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee we can learn to live safely with bears. Firstly, be “Bear” aware and understand “Bear” necessities and “Facts”. Then take the simple steps to prevent “Bears” becoming public safety hazards so they do not pay with their lives because of our ignorance.

A brochure provided by Lydia Kootof Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee helped me understand how to be better “Bear Aware”.

The work provided by the Hope Mountain Black Bear Committee is possible with the financial support provided by:

For more information go to: www.hopemountain.org.

Or contact Lydia Koot at 604-860-4558. lkoot@hopemountain.org

Be Bear Aware

Living with Bears in Merritt BC Canada

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Camping in Merritt BC and the Nicola Valley

merritt bc camping

Camping in Merritt BC and the Nicola Valley

Harmon Lake in the Kane Valley

 

This is the second time around for this blog on Camping in Merritt and the Nicola Valley.  I previously released this in the winter but decided it might be more interesting to those looking for a great spot to camp without over crowding.  The site at Harmon Lake is a Forestry Recreation Site and therefore there are no reservations taken.  Mid week is usually the best time to arrive as the weekends can be quite busy.

My favourite spot for camping in Merritt BC Canada

I have talked about camping in Merritt BC and the Nicola Valley before but this time I want to introduce you to one of my top spots – Harmon Lake in the Kane Valley.  I know we have shifted into winter and camping is probably not high on your list of things to do, but I need to get this down on paper now so you can file this under–“remember for camping season” 

What do you like to do when camping in Merritt BC?

We like to start our day with a delicious breakfast.  There is nothing better than eating pancakes with homemade blueberry syrup and bacon beside a beautiful lake while camping in Merritt BC and the Nicola Valley! Scrambled eggs and gourmet sausages are pretty good too.

Camping in Merritt BC

Great Breakfast With Family

Post breakfast activities

After breakfast we grabbed our bikes and headed out on a little trip along Kane Valley Road.  There are many lakes to see on this road with wild life on either side, especially birds for people who are into this activity.  Bikes can also be used on the 55 kilometers of x-country ski trails with the added bonus of picnic tables and pit toilets in various places along the trail.  These facilities are not maintained in the summer so please be kind to your fellow adventurers and leave the places clean.

Merritt BC Camping

Game night while camping

We interspersed our activities with some serious reading and outstanding meals.  As well, we filled in our night time with Board Games and sitting around the fire.

Nicola Valley campfires

Nicola Valley Campfires and stories

“There is nothing like sitting around the campfire and reading a good book”–Andrea Reynolds

How to get to Harmon Lake in Merritt

From Merritt, BC you take the Okanagan Connector (Hwy 97C) towards Kelowna for approximately 14 kilometers.  You will see the sign for Harmon Lake (if you missed that sign look for the x-country ski sign–it will get you to the same place). Make the right turn onto Kane Valley Rd and follow it approximately  8 kilometers.  At this point you have a decision to make.  On the left you will see the entrance to the east campground.  If you stay on Kane Valley Rd for about 800 meters you will come to the West Campground. (link to map)

experiencemerritt

Heading west 

The west campground in my mind is prettier than the east campground and the sites are further apart.  The down side is that it can be windier than its counterpart.  The east side has more amenities such as the boat launch, the campground host, access to the lake and hiking trails.

What you need when you are camping at Harmon Lake

My family prefers non motorized activities and so we bring our bikes, kayaks and hiking boots

Harmon Lake in Merritt adventures

If you like motorized vehicles there are plenty of places to use your ATV, dirt bike or fishing boat with a small motor.

Harmon Lake in Merritt BC

Looking out from the shoreline trail at Harmon Lake

Hiking in the Kane Valley

Hiking is one of our favourite things to do.  The easiest hike is the shoreline trail that takes you around the lake.  One of the bonuses of this hike is that it is located in a Forestry Recreational Area. It has an interpretive site that provides a lot of information on the eco systems of the lake area.  This is an easy hike and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

There are 55 kilometers of ski trails with varying levels of difficulty.  They all provide a great forest experience. Times of these hikes vary with length and difficulty.

Kayaking on Harmon Lake

Harmon is great for this activity.  The lake is small so you are usually not far from any edge of the lake so you really don’t have to worry about falling in the Lake!  It is a beautiful lake but it seems even prettier when you are looking on shore from your Kayak

Kayaking in Merritt BC

Cruising on Harmon lake

When all is said and done it is easy to see why one of my favourite places to camp in Merritt and the Nicola Valley is Harmon Lake.

Harmon Lake is camping in Merritt BC

Nicola Valley Campgrounds

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Coffee Shops in Merritt – Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse

Coffee Shops in Merritt

Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse in Downtown Merritt BC

“No matter your eats and coffee needs just order and Mandolin’s will look after the quality and service.”

When it comes to coffee shops in Merritt BC Canada Mandolins Coffee Shop is a frequent stop for this coffee connoisseur. There are many coffee stops to select from too throughout the Nicola Valley. All have their pluses and unique style from the chain store coffee shops to the privately operated family owned and operated coffee shops in Merritt. But what makes a favorite coffee shop? That is a tough question? It is a question usually answered based on personal preferences.

Enjoying a “cup-of-joe” at Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse in Downtown Merritt BC

Coffee With Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse

When I talk about the types of coffee shops in Merritt I mean the taste, smells, strength and purpose of the coffee. Purpose you ask? Well yes of course. You see, in my line of work you have coffee for different purposes. There is the road coffee. “Coffee to go” for short. This is huge for me, as I travel a lot. Then there are coffees while I am staying in communities like the work coffee, morning coffee, night coffee, stay awake coffee and then there is the hide in the corner booth coffee. This last one is my work escape so I can get some projects done, spread my papers out and get some work in. Each coffee has a purpose. Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse satisfies most of my coffee urges. 

Coffee Shops In Merritt

Being that I have had the opportunity to spend some quality time in the community of Merritt BC I have had a chance to enjoy many coffee shops in the Nicola Valley. Mandolin’s Coffee Shop is one of the establishments I frequent often for many different reasons including good service, “yum-yum” baking, positive conversations, friendly patrons, location and of course, the coffee.

The Patrons of Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse

Smile Included With Your Coffee

I really enjoy the conversations and connections I enjoy with the owner of Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse, Cheryl. She greets me with a hello every visit, and always has a thought to share. Bottom line she makes me smile. 

She attributes her success to,

“Customer service, fast service. The hours myself and Laurie put in and a lot of hard work.”

I would like to add the upbeat environment, and positive attitude to her list of attributes. She always has something to say that makes me go “hum”. 

Cheryl, owner of Mandolin’s serves her patrons with a smile.

I have traveled the country for over a decade in my work. In doing so I have sat in many coffee shops. Looking back, the good ones, my coffee shops of choice, all had good people running the show. It just goes to show that a happy demeanor and positive conversations will win over customers. Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse is one of the coffee shops in Merritt which makes my  “Coffee Shop Bucket List”. 

experiencemerritt

Lastly, I have always enjoyed a good cup of coffee in the company of many good people during my visits. Add in a comfortable positive environment and I am a sucker for a coffee moment.  Therefore Mandolins is, in essence, “Greg Approved”. 

Coffee shop in Merritt

Me having a coffee moment at Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse

Coffee Tri-Vecta In Merritt BC

I cannot say enough of how appreciative I am when I pop into Mandolin’s Coffee Shop in-between appointments to have a “cup-of-joe”.  Because the coffee at Mandolins jives with my palette nicely, one cup of java is usually not enough. I usually do a tri-vecta and gobble down a few more cups of coffee before I dash out the door for an appointment. As I get up to leave I say my goodbyes. Cheryl often echoes back hers.  

Hockey Night In Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse

coffee shop

Hockey Night in Mandolins

The environment at Mandolin’s Coffee Shop created by Cheryl and her daughter, Laurie, is enhanced by the numerous number of NHL (National Hockey League) and local hockey jerseys hanging from the ceiling and walls. Many are autographed. All are interesting. Therefore, if you are a hockey fanatic like myself, you are captivated by the display of hockey memorabilia.

Mandolins and History

Complimenting the hockey atmosphere on the walls of Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse are photos of times gone by in the Nicola Valley. It is a cowboy story book of history told through the lens of time.

Experience Nicola Valley asked Cheryl, “What makes your coffee shop unique?”

“(Our) keto and gluten free menu. Big hockey fans so the jerseys hanging up and all the cowboy pictures (hanging) on the walls. The customers love them.”

Coffee Shop In Merritt Homemade Baked Goods

Something which is very refreshing is that all the baked goods are made from scratch. They are not pre-made, frozen, nor brought in from another source. No, this is all about homemade and always fresh. How yummy is that!

Homemade baked goods

Behind the counter is a menu board with a good selection of eats. Eat in or take out, that is your call. Go big and contact Mandolins to cater for your Nicola Valley events and functions. No matter your eats and coffee needs just order and Mandolin’s will look after the quality and service.

“Soup, sandwiches, bagels, salads (budda bowls), specialty drinks, smoothies and more… “

menu board

Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse menu board full of eats

Merritt Coffee Shop And More

When coffee is on your mind and you want to get in some additional shopping without driving from parking lot A to parking lot B then this coffee shop in Merritt is the ticket. Located in Railyard Mall in Downtown Merritt there are other services operating on the premises. There is a large grocery store (Save on Foods), liquor store (BC Liquor Store), pet store (Pet Value), adventure clothing company (Work And Play), fitness outlet, real estate office, auto parts (Lordco), Nicola Valley Museum & Archives and more.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse
1700 Garcia Street
Merritt, BC, Canada
V1K 1B8

Telephone: (250) 315-0007

Facebook Page

Coffee Shops in Merritt BC Canada

Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffeehouse in Downtown Merritt BC

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Sushi in Merritt BC

Sushi in Merritt BC – NEW Town Sushi

“Japanese food can be fancy and affordable”.🍴

That is what James, the owner and chef told me about offering his specialties; Japanese cuisine and Sushi in Merritt BC.  Oh yes, also James’s cuisine has his signature “style” and a “European twist”.  He may be the new kid on the block however he is  anything but new when it comes to preparing and delivering food. It is an experience at New Town Sushi that you will not want to miss.

If you live in Merritt, travelling through or a regular visitor to Merritt, you will want to make sure to take some time and make a stop at the newly opened New Town Sushi for an unforgettable meal. 

Exterior at New Town Sushi In Merritt BC

NOW OPEN at the Quality Inn In Merritt BC NEW TOWN SUSHI

 opened in October 2018 Don’t get this “New Town Sushi” confused with the previous restaurant at that location with a similiar name. Because it is NOT the same at all!  I think many are saying much better! Still in the process of branding New Town Sushi In Merritt BC, the goal is to offer  a dining experience in Merritt that brings  “Newer City Trends and Tastes to the Country”. There is plans for new and upgraded decor with a “classy” up-town environment. I was happy to see that James and his Family are doing what I thought was a great idea for Merritt. Something new and different, with a perfect balance of Quality and Price. I am pretty sure they will rock this!

The menu is full of choices that  offer authentic Sushi to creative rolls like the one called “let’s Go Merritt”, to a really good steak dinner! Yes they offer Western style food as well. I am told that whenever possible they will use fresh and local, like the beef  I had for my  delicious steak dinner. “Top quality ingredients are always used for all meals”.

 

 

 

 

 

“My Food is my Fashion, It changes over time”

James is a professionally trained and  practiced as a General Manager for over 20 years at a variety of restaurants where he acquired his knowledge, skills, experience and expertise from  all of the best. Being a General Manager in the restaurant business is not only about the cooking. It is about creating, teaching and delivering. He teaches everything about HOW TO prepare and serve Japanese Food. And he is good at it!

He spent many years learning and working at a variety of restaurants in Vancouver BC, Alberta and Kelowna. Including most recently Blue Tail Sushi In Kelowna BC. Now here in Merritt, he and his Wife Jessica intend to set the bar high! A motivator so to speak. Having Sushi in Merritt BC at New Town Sushi, is a game changer. 

You may be surprised to find that the word “sushi” doesn’t mean raw fish; it is an outdated Japanese term that literally means “it’s sour.” It refers to vinegared rice, commonly topped or mixed with fish or vegetables.

Eat In or order out.

New Town Sushi in Merritt BC is an 80 seat restaurant with a very inviting and comfortable dining room. group tables or comfortable booths. Alternatively, you can order for take out. Changes are being made for both experiences as the interior, although very nice is going to get nicer! Online ordering is available as well! That’s innovative. Although James says there is no expense spared in his food, the prices on the menu are impressive. There is a special on right now, 10% off on take out over $30 until February 29 2019

The first time I went to New Town Sushi, I went with my friend Jared. He introduced me and this is what he has to say about them; “As someone who has come from the coast and is a big fan of Sushi, it was a pleasure to find New Town Sushi here in Merritt. Having experienced dining in the city, I can confirm that New Town Sushi has brought the trends and quality that you would find in the bigger cities. Their Quality and attention to detail is what you would expect to find in cities like Kelowna, Kamloops or Vancouver.

 

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I Love the names for the rolls, and I loved the rolls too! Cool names and delicious too! Consider the steak dinner, I did!

  • Red Dragon Roll
  • Spider
  • Rainbow
  • Green Dragon
  • White Dragon
  • Quality Green

Hungry? Get in touch.

Call or just stop in! They are easy to find! 

OPENING HOURS

Mon – Sat: 11:30 am – 9 pm

Call (250) 378-0855  4025 Walters Avenue. Super easy to find on the main road into Merritt, Voght Street, call them 6, soon to be 7 days a week. Or connect with them on FaceBook.

Go Ahead and order online RIGHT HERE

Do you have a favorite Sushi Restaurant? If you stop in at New Town Sushi in Merritt BC, I would love to hear your thoughts.

 

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Chinese Food in Merritt BC

Chinese Food in Merritt BC 

Chinese food Merritt BC

Located in the Heart of Historic downtown Merritt

Chinese Food in Merritt BC Canada, CANADA CAFE

Serving Merritt for over 50 years!

Canada Cafe is famous for it’s delicious Chinese Food in Merritt BC. Because of that, it is not the least bit suprising, after 50 years in the restaurant business in Merritt, they have earned their reputation by serving up some of the best to found in the Nicola Valley! I love Chinese food.  I love Chinese food dining and love chatting with Dennis when I dine in or on occasion ordering take out at Canada Cafe. “Hot and Fresh” Guaranteed! 

                 Chinese Food Merritt BC Canada Cafe Dining roomCanada Cafe Chinese Food in Merritt BC

                 Restaurant dining room Canada CafeDining area in the Canada Cafe

 

Meet Dennis and his family at Canada Cafe in Merritt BC

Canada Cafe is a family run restaurant located in the heart of downtown Merritt. Dennis and his family took over September 15 2015 and Dennis can count the days! He tells me how much his family LOVES Merritt and the Nicola Valley! They Love Canada Cafe!   Dennis would be by any chef’s standards an expert in the kitchen! He has over 20 years experience cooking in a Chinese food restaurant in Chilliwack. It is a journey, a family life sharing their passion for cooking and serving the public! Merritt is lucky to have them!

Dennis was excited to share all of the attention to detail that makes Canada Cafe top of the list for choosing  Chinese food in Merritt BC. He sat with me and shared with pride how his restaurants food is “hot and Fresh”. I have to agree with that! He showed me around the restaurant and I could not help but notice and admire the pride he showed me.  So, when your hungry for Chinese Food in Merritt BC, stop in. You will not be disappointed.

Eat In. Take out. Catering. book a group. Cater an Event Canada Cafe has you covered!

Going into the Canada Cafe to dine is just great, in addition you have options to order out for free delivery, plan a group party and have a custom buffet, Cater out to any special event or meeting for groups of 10 or more. Dennis will promise you a great deal and Chinese food in Merritt that will be cooked up “Fresh and Hot”  

Chinese Food Canada Cafe Merritt BC Menu

More than just Chinese Food

Canada Cafe not only serves up some of the best Chinese food in the Valley, you can also dine on the classic western food like chicken strips, grilled cheese or deluxe burgers and fries! Canada Cafe is also fully licenced.

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Locals  Love the fresh food and Service

On my last visit, I talked to Kay who was waiting for her take out order. She has lived in Merritt for six years and has been going to the Canada Cafe in Merritt for six years!  Kay said she doesn’t have a favourite choice because, “It’s all good”!  She has tried other restaurants but says she “always comes back”!  Her favorites to order here is the Hot and Sour Soup, along with Chow Mein,  Sweet and Sour Pork and the Prawns. 

Canada CAfe boasts being awarded with Merritt Heralds People Choice Award 2018 for BEST CHINESE FOOD. you can see the award proudly displayed in the front window as you walk by. 

Best Chinese food Merritt BC award

NO MSG

There is no MSG at all, whatsoever, used in any of the food at Canada Cafe. That is good news for people that mat have allergies to it. 

Contact Canada Cafe is as simple as checking out their Facebook Page or calling 250-378-5551. They are open seven days a week and are easy to get to located at 2055 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt BC. (across the street from Fields)

After all this talking about their food, I’m hungry! I think this time, I will try the Hot and Sour Soup! 

Chinese food in Merritt BC

Canada Cafe Chinese and Western Cuisine In Merritt BC

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Things To Do Merritt BC Canada – Guest Post ehCanadaTravel.com

Things To Do in Merritt BC

From mountain biking to horseback riding to fishing, are just some of the adventures in Merritt, BC in the Nicola Valley, Canada.

“Every great adventure in the Nicola Valley happens via the secondary highways, local streets and backcountry gravel roads. To enjoy Merritt BC activities one must exit the Highway!”

Things to do in Merritt BC Canada? Planning what adventures you are going to explore? Coming to the Nicola Valley, BC, Canada soon are ya? You have come to the right blogging website. You see… we here are local experts because we have experienced what we preach. I have explored the Nicola Valley on many occasions and I too asked myself, “where do I start?” Such little time and so many things to do in Merritt BC! That is the question, right? What to do when you get here. Well, lets get to it then. 

Highway #1 is not home to things to do in Merritt, BC

The Nicola Valley is guaranteed to inspire and impress when it comes to adventure but, to do so, to truly enjoy your experience, you need to exit Highway #1. Highway #1 is the “express lane” in Canada. It is the best route to get from A to B quickly, but it is by no means a route for exploring communities and Merritt BC Canada is no different. Highway #1, also referred to as the Trans Canada Highway,  is not the road that leads to Merritt  adventures and sightseeing bliss.

Every great adventure in the Nicola Valley happens via the secondary highways, local streets and backcountry gravel roads. And… to truly appreciate the Nicola Valley you need to know where to go and how to get there. That is where “moi” comes into the picture. I am honored to share with you the 3 things to do in Merritt BC which caught my fancy. 

Things to do in Merritt BC including Fishing
1.  Lakes Are A Top Things To Do in Merritt BC Hands Down

“Merritt is a fishing haven with 200+ lakes! Pick a lake, any lake, and stay for awhile.” ehCanadaTravel.com July 30th, 2017

The Nicola Valley is covered in lakes, both easy access and “far-flung” remote. Many are equipped with wilderness campsites so you can stay a while and camp, fish, hike and/or mountain bike. The saying around these parts is “A lake a day for as long as you stay.” Pretty catchy eh.  

Nicola Lake is the “Grand Daddy” of all the lakes in the region. It is easily accessed from Highway 5A just east of Merritt, BC.  When visiting Nicola Lake I have seen people swimming, fishing, water skiing, picnicking, and kayaking. Has to be a pretty decent lake right… and it is easy, easy access. 

Personally, I like the “far-flung” wilderness campsites located at remote lakes. No services? Fine with me. I am happy when I have my tent, camera and  lots of nature, wildlife and adventure. I too am a bit bias towards wilderness lakes. Here are a few lakes to check out which I have had the privilege to camp at –   Lundbom Lake, Lily Lake, Marquart Lake, Gwen Lake and Helmer Lake.

Things to do in Merritt BC includes mountain biking

2. Mountain Biking Is Definitely a Things To Do in Merritt BC

The Nicola Valley has 4 distinct areas designated for mountain biking enthusiasts. They include Iron Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, Swakum, and the Coutlee Plateau area. They provide a good assortment of  easy going and challenging biking trails, some short and some are considered long haul. All provide some adrenaline and amazing sightseeing scenery.

Mountain Biking BC sums up the Nicola Valley mountain biking experience the best.

“… you will find fast and flowy singletrack, challenging steep and rocky trails, gentle riding classic grassland routes, and scenic forested pathways. Merritt has something for everyone!” Mountain Biking BC

You can find mountain biking trail information and rentals from the following local bike shop.

Breathe Bikes
1960 Quilchena Ave,
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
Website: www.breathebikes.ca
Email: bikegeektrav@gmail.com
Phone: +1 (250) 936-9702

Things to do in Merritt BC Canada includes horseback riding.
3. Horseback Riding is a Nicola Valley Things To Do

Saddle up in the Nicola Valley and you will surely experience the cowboy life! You do not have to be a full-blooded cowboy or cowgirl either to enjoy horseback riding.  In fact, some say (including this blogger) horseback riding is best enjoyed when it is the first time. You will not fully appreciate how fun horseback riding is until you go sightseeing. Prove me wrong. I dare you.

“A great horse will change your life. The truly special ones define it…” BRL Equine Nutrition

The valley has ranches where you can bring your own horse or you can use one of theirs to explore the backcountry. Give these cowboys and cowgirls a phone call.

A-P Ranch Western Guest Ranch
P.O. Box 1148,
Merritt, BC, Canada
Website: www.apguestranch.com
Phone 250-378-6520

This list is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Merritt BC during the summer months. I have not even begun to talk about the things to do in Merritt BC in the winter months. That will be another post down the line by our new team of bloggers.

If I may be so humble to make a request while I have you all hyped up about Nicola Valley adventures? Please follow the new  “Experience Nicola Valley“ social media pages so you do not to miss our next blog post. While you wait with great anticipation you can also enjoy the posts from the other talented Nicola Valley writers who contribute to this blog. I am sure you will like them as much as me, but not more right?

For all of you out there who have been to Merritt, BC before I have a question to ask you,

“What would your “3 Things To Do” be if you were writing this blog?” 

Go ahead, you will not hurt my feelings. Let me know in the comment section below. 

 Things To Do in Merritt BC Canada

 

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