Winding along the Nicola River on Hwy 8 east of Spences Bridge, the community of Lower Nicola comes into view.
A golden addition to Gold Country, this community is perfect for the outdoors enthusiast. The hiking and biking trails give you a chance to experience pristine nature. Take a drive up to Promontory Mountain. Though the road is quite steep, and a 4 X 4 is recommended, you will be glad that you decided to make this trip. Standing on the weather station catwalk, the view you experience is spell binding. Make sure you bring your camera, as the view of Merritt and all the surrounding mountains is spectacular.
For a fishing adventure, turn off of Hwy 8 onto Aberdeen Road and head to Chataway. On the way there is a viewpoint where you can see the remains of the Craigmont Mine. This copper mine was prosperous in its day, and employed a large number of Merritt's population from the 1960's until it closed in 1982. Continue on your journey to Chataway, then choose any of the crystal clear fishing lakes and let nature surround you as you spend the day catching the elusive rainbow trout. The area offers year round recreational activities including snowmobiling, skating, tobogganing and fantastic ice fishing in winter.
Another great adventure is the Spius Creek Hatchery. Located 20 km west of Merritt on Hwy 8, this hatchery is a great educational and recreational outing. Tours run everyday from 9am to 3pm and show how the salmon are grown from the beginning to their release - teaching about the Salmon Habitat in area. They stock Adult Coho and Chinook for the Nicola, Salmon, Coldwater and the Deadman Rivers as well as Spius Creek.
For a faster paced experience, take in a stock car race at the 3/4 mile dirt track. Racers from all over B.C. come to compete in these thrilling races. Dwarf cars are amazing to watch, and what a show all these racers put on! This family event is a perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening.
Then spend a leisurely evening at Smith's Pioneer Park playing horseshoes in the official size pits, or enjoy a game of tennis or baseball. There is also a playground here for the family to enjoy.
There are various events happening throughout the year including the Silent Auction & Dinner and the Community Pancake Breakfast and Garage Sale. Come and spend some time here and meet the people of the Lower Nicola Valley.
Population: <1000
Elevation: ranges from 568m at the Nicola River to 1734m at the top of Promontory Hill
Amenities include :
- Grocery Stores
- Service Station
- Shopping
- Recreation
- Arena
- Community Park
- Horseshoe Pits
- Tennis Court
- Driving Range
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