As spring returns to the Southern Interior with longer and more vibrant days, the path to new memories is not far from home.

Destination BC's Crowsnest Scenic 3 blog provides travel inspiration and information for the most scenic road trip in the province from Hope to Christina Lake along the Crowsnest Highway (Hwy 3). Recently the blog released its top 10 ways to explore the 4.5-hour, 395-kilometre driving route this spring, with two pit stops in the Similkameen Valley.

With a mix of forest and desert ecosystems, the Similkameen Valley provides one of the best wildlife viewing spots in B.C., with soaring eagles, cliffside goats and birding trails awaiting travellers. Mountain goats scaling cliffs between Hedley and Keremeos alongside golden eagles flying above the grasslands, as big horn sheep, mule deer, elk and black bears wander the valley, the region provides a premium wildlife viewing experience.

Swan Lake Nature Reserve near Princeton offers a quieter, peaceful experience with 15 km of trails and bird blinds to explore over 250 bird specials, from melodic warblers to mountain bluebirds. The wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.

The second pit stop along the scenic highway provides some relaxation after a long, busy day. Orofino Vineyards and Corcelettes Estate Winery provide the opportunity to unwind with a glass under the stars and in front of a beautiful landscape of rugged mountains. 

The Similkameen Valley is known as the organic farming capital of Canada and is filled with many small, family-run wineries, cideries and distilleries.  The natural heat-trapping cliffs allow evenings to stay cool long after the sun goes down.