Local Information

Invermere was established in the 1800's as a trading post. Originally, Invermere was claimed by Edmond Johnston who named it Copper City. The land was then purchased by the Canterbury Company who changed the name to Canterbury Townsite. It was only after the Columbia Valley Irrigated Fruit Lands Company purchased the land from Canterbury Company that the name changed, for the last time, to Invermere. The name Invermere is a Scottish name derived from the words 'Inver' ("out of the mouth") and 'mere' ("lake").

The arts and culture are definitely alive in the Valley. Spend a day touring art studios and galleries while the artisans creating amazing artwork, or visit Pynelogs Cultural Centre, a 93-year-old heritage building with a rich history and the home of gallery exhibitions, concert performances, workshops, and special events.

Invermere is the local hotspot for many Albertans and international travelers. The warm summers and snowy winters allow for a myriad of activities year round. This region of BC is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful areas in a province noted for its scenery. Recognized as the golf mecca of the Rockies, there are 14 courses within minutes of each other with a mix of short, medium and championship courses for all skill levels.

The summer months average 23 degrees Celsius, and mid-summer can be very hot. The winter averages -1 degree Celsius.

Mean Temperatures:
   January -9.3° C, 12° F
   July 18.2° C, 64° F

Temperature Ranges: -30° C to 35° C

Annual Sunshine: 2,228 hours

Average Frost Free Days: 128 per year

Elevation: 840 m (2,756 feet)

8,773 (2201 Census)

Directions and Maps

Kootenay National Park offers diverse terrain and remarkable wildlife viewing. Seeing the wildlife in its natural habitat is a regular event, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk and moose are seen frequently.

Bugaboo Provincial Park is famous for its breathtaking 70 million year-old spires. Some reach 3,000 metres (9,843 ft) high.

The Columbia River Wetlands span approximately 180 km (112 miles), forming the longest continuous stretch of wetlands remaining in North America.

The Rockies border the provinces of BC and Alberta and stretch south to Idaho, Washington, and Montana. The region combines numerous parks, wildlife, natural hot springs, and breathtaking views.

The hot mineral water at Radium Hot Springs is only a 20 minute drive from Invermere. The water is odourless and clear, encouraging a day or night of pure relaxation. The facilities also include a cooler swimming pool (27°C).

The Hoodoo rocks were created over 600 million years ago and tell a story about their fascinating geological history, exposing the deposition of the sediments in a prehistoric sea which once covered this land. The Hoodoos are a perfect short day-hike. Stand on the cliffs to see that incredible view across Columbia Lake and down the Rocky Mountain Trench.

The summer months average 23 degrees Celsius, and mid-summer can be very hot

The winter averages -1 degree Celsius

The Farmers' Market is on two closed streets in Invermere and Edgewater, featuring crafts, music, art, and great food from annually from June to September.

Valley Appreciation Day is located in the town core and kicks off with the popular pancake breakfast cooked by local community members. It's followed by entertainment throughout the day. There's a farmers' market, local performances, and plenty of activities. Clowns will be handing out balloons to the kids, and square dance twirlers will be sure to put on a show.

Run, jog, or walk around Windermere Lake. All exhausted participants are treated to a pancake breakfast at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. There are many options to allow participants of all skill levels to participate. Challenge yourself to a 10 kilometre race or a full 63.3-kilometre ultra-marathon. The unparalleled scenery makes this event one of a kind.

Pete's Marina

Located on Lake Windermere and offers SeaDoo and boat rentals. They also offer a full range of services and amenities including: repair services for all makes and models, secure storage, winterization and launching.

Shadybrook Marina

Boat charters, ski and wakeboard school, and boat gas and oil are available. Equipment rentals and sales are also offered.

Invermere Boat Rentals and Outdoor Recreation

Located on the main highway into Invermere. They offer ski boat and s SeaDoo rentals as well as retail sales.

Columbia Valley Chamber & Visitor Centre
250.342.2844
www.ColumbiaValleyChamber.com

District of Invermere
250.342.9281
www.Invermere.net

Radium Hot Springs Chamber & Visitor Centre
250.347.9331
Toll Free: 1.800.347.9704
www.RadiumHotSprings.com

Village of Radium Hot Springs
250.347.6455
www.RadiumHotSprings.com/Village/

Village of Canal Flats
250.349.5462
www.CanalFlats.com

Kootenay Rockies Tourism
250.427.4838
www.KootenayRockies.com

For more information on the area, visit www.invermere.com