Vernon, BC

Population: 34,227

Highlights:
Silver Star Mountain Resort
Sovereign Lakes Cross Country Ski Area
Performing Arts Centre
Snowmobile Tours
Sleigh rides & Ice Fishing
Paragliding
Fresh Water Fishing
Summer Lakeside Picnics
Arts and Culture Events

History:
The First Nation Interior Salish tribes populated the area, known today as Vernon and the surrounding Okanagan Lake, for centuries. The land and lakes provided the resources for food and materials for seasonal hunting and berry collecting in preparation for winter. It is not known when their culture and nomadic way of life began after the ice age, however they resided in this region for well over 4,000 years.

In 1811 fur traders out of Europe arrived and by 1850 the boom for the gold rush began in the interior of British Columbia fueling miner camps, which set up in the area surrounding the gold-rich lakes and streams. The camps attracted cattle ranchers looking for settled to grow and sell their stock.

By 1908, orchards were planted and the area has since been noted for its hardy soils and fruit production ,which has been a lasting staple industry that now includes the harvest of fabulous vineyards.

Today, a few local buildings display murals depicting the cities rich history.

Climate:
Summer average 20 degrees Celsius
Winter average -2 degrees Celsius