The Village of McBride is a small and vibrant community. The local economy is comprised of forestry, tourism, small business, and other industry, such as the railway.

Community amenities consist of local elementary and secondary schools, a recreation centre that contains both an arena and curling rink, as well as a small gym, a hospital and doctors’ clinic, a seniors’ housing complex, and outdoor space such as playgrounds and ballparks. Fire protection is provided by a volunteer fire department; other emergency response services are staffed and provided locally as well.

The village is condensed and perfect for walking. Shops, restaurants, and services are all within easy walking distance. You’ll even find a thriving museum and library centre, live theatre events and opportunities and an occasional street dance.

Making friends is easy in this community, and you will find that your children can enjoy the freedom and safety that is so much a part of small town living. Your lifestyle can easily take on a wide variety of recreational opportunities that are just outside your door year-round. Hike the alpine or hit the bike trails. Discover world-class snowmobiling or take up snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The community has an active Horseman Association and thriving farmer’s market and Grower’s Association. 

Information adapted from www.discoverrvr.ca

The Village of Valemount is the nearest community to both Mount Robson Provincial Park and Jasper National Park; it is nestled near the foot of Canoe Mountain and is situated right on the divide between the Fraser and Columbia River watersheds. The economy of Valemount is based primarily on tourism and forestry, and services a catchment area of 2000 people.

Valemount has recently garnered attention for the proposed Valemount Glaciers Destination resort, a year-round and world-class tourism attraction. Current anticipated development is slated for the spring of 2020, with a soft opening to follow as soon as the initial construction is in place.

The Valemount economy has traditionally relied on forestry and an active community forest and a number of small manufacturers still capitalize on the forest industry. The community has now also expanded into tourism and offers up many eco-tourism options such as ATV tours, dog sledding, canoeing, and alpine hiking. Recreational opportunities are just outside your backdoor in all seasons. In winter you are in the best snowmobiling country in the world, or if you enjoy peace and quiet and endless powder, opportunities abound for backcountry skiing. Valemount is home to two heliski lodges and a cat-skiing destination. Mountain biking is popular and a shuttle is available to get you to the top of the trailheads. And when you are done and dusty, a local brewer is on hand to help you slake your thirst.

Amenities in the community include both an elementary and secondary school, daycare, a recreation centre with a gym, 2 ball parks, an active museum, library, and medical centre with a doctors’ clinic. Fire protection is provided by a volunteer fire department; other emergency response services are staffed and provided locally as well.  

The community is diverse and welcoming. With an active arts and cultural society, busy farmer’s market, and a variety of community associations, you will be entertained or engaged at many levels. Valemount is also in the process of establishing a Valemount College, which is seeking to offer eco-tourism training and education.

Locals are wild about locally manufactured goods, like beer, coffee, chocolate and products from local artisans. The community is full of funky soulful undertakings as featured in the buy local program called Love Valemount.

Information adapted from www.discoverrvr.ca