Vermilion Trail Society (VTS) members and friends of the society have had a busy and successful year.
The society and friends enjoyed participating in special events that took place along the 113 km (Brookmere to Osprey Lake) of trail stewarded by VTS.
2012 brought forward a trip from Princeton to Coalmont via the trail by Okanagan Women on Wheels, who thought the “trail was spectacular.” The Steve King Classic took place last year with volunteers manning two of the stations along the way. Skiers also enjoyed part of the trail on the first B.C. Family Day weekend.
As well as participating in special events during 2012, VTS members and friends worked together to enhance, maintain and upgrade the trail, in the areas possible to do so.
VTS were fortunate to have permission to grade 26 kilometers of trail during last year—their goal is to bring all 113 kilometers of trail in the district up to world class condition as quickly as government approval can be acquired.
Repair work was done to various tressel’s and culverts, a new bridge installed at Hayes Creek and clearing and seeding of various areas.
VTS undertook a few restoration projects throughout the year. The Caboose outside was restored and repainted and the VTS storage container was leveled, signed and painted.
The gazebo and outhouse at Jura Station were restored and painted. The gazebo was built on the original foundation of the old water tower that used to stand at Jura Station when the KVR trains were running.
The Parr Tunnel Gazebo situated alongside the Tulameen River was restored and painted as well.
Future plans for the society include; continued maintenance and improvement of the trail, completion of caboose restoration (inside) in hopes to eventually open it as a trail information center.
Vermilion Trail Society meets at the Chamber board room on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. New members are always welcome.
The Annual General Meeting takes place March 12 at 7 p.m., with membership renewals taking place from 6:30 to 7.
For more information on the trail and VTS please visit www.vermiliontrailsociety.com, or
www.facebook.com/pages/Vermilion-Trails-Society/170394154036
Send inquiries to: vts.secretary@gmail.com