The Similkameen Valley encompasses a diverse region with communities including Keremeos, Ollala, Cawston, Hedley and Princeton. Interesting spots to visit include the Grist Mill Heritage Site, a walk along the dike in Keremeos and the Red Bridge all pictured below.
Farmstand capital of B.C.
Keremeos and Cawston has some of the best growing conditions for a wide range of produce from tree fruits to field crops. Visits to the farm stands in the summer has become an annual ritual for many locals and visitors to the valley.
Just some statistics
Altitude 1410 feet or 365 meters
Last Spring frost, earliest March 7th, latest May 7, average last spring frost April 14th
First Fall frost, earliest September 16th, latest November 13th, average first fall frost October 18th
Shortest frost free days 146 days
Longest frost free days 228 days
Average frost free days 186
Average annual rainfall 26.8 cm
Average annual snowfall 50 cm
Blooming and Harvesting Dates for Fruit Trees
Apricot blossom late April to early May, Apricot harvest mid July to mid August
Cherry blossom mid to late April, Cherry harvest late June to late July
Plum blossom mid April, Plum harvest mid August to late September
Peach blossom mid April, Peach harvest late July to mid September
Apple blossom late April to early May, Apple harvest mid July to early October
Pear blossom mid to late April, Pear harvest August to late September
