Coldstream

The town of Coldstream covers a total land area of 67.25 km, east of Vernon, British Columbia. The small city was incorporated during 1906. It comprises the North end of Kalamalka Lake and extends through the beautiful Coldstream valley. As the region was incorporated on December 21, 1906 it celebrated its centennial during the year 2006.

The municipality of Coldstream is situated directly southeast of Vernon. It is considered a part of the Greater Vernon area. Coldstream is a member municipality and the location of the head offices of the Regional District of the North Okanagan.

There are numerous beaches, parks, and wonderful hiking trails in the Coldstream Valley, which travels east through lands for agriculture, through rolling hills all the way to the small community of Lavington. Amongst the most popular places is Kalamalka Provincial Park. For cycling aficionados, there are enough byways and interesting back roads to explore. The numerous boat launches provide a chance for adventure on Kalamalka Lake.

The Coldstream Ranch was established by Captain Charles Frederick Houghton in the year 1863. He transferred the ranch to Forbes G. and Charles Albert Vernon. In the year 1891, it was acquired by the 1st marquess of Aberdeen and Temair, John Hamilton-Gordon. He became Canada's future Governor General from the years 1893 to 1898. Coldstream Ranch was bought during the year 1994 by its current owners and still continues to be a working cattle ranch.

Greater Vernon was initially known for its agriculture and forestry industries. More recently, retail trade and manufacturing have become the key industries.

Coldstream Elementary School, Kidston Elementary School and Kalamalka Secondary School are covered by School District 22 Vernon. The Vernon campus of Okanagan College serves the municipality too.

Kal Beach on the shores of Kalamalka Lake is one of Coldstream and region's most famous beaches. There are several smaller beaches in the region which are likewise popular like for instance Cosens Beach, Kirkland Beach, Long Lake Beach, Tamarack Beach, Sovereign Beach, Cliff Beach, Pebble Beach, Jade Bay Beach and Juniper Beach.

The Kalamalka Provincial Park borders the town of Coldstream. This park comprises a wide variety of natural places along with numerous scenic views and groomed hiking trails. Wild animals in the region comprise marmot, black bear, rattlesnakes and white tailed deer. There are various bird species who also call the area home.

The North Okanagan boasts several year round recreational activities with its hot and sunny summers, warm springs and temperate and mild autumns. It is a well-known tourist location and those who are fortunate enough to call the area home can enjoy the outdoors every day of the year.