Spillimacheen
Elevation: 825 m (2700 ft)
Population: 41
Interesting Note: Spillimacheen was named by the Indians and means "meeting of the waters". The original spelling was Spillimachene.
Thirteen kilometers north of Brisco is Spillimacheen, another access point to
Purcell Mountain backcountry locations. The area also provides easy access to
canoeing and kayaking on the river and world class climbing in the Jubilee Mountain
area. Westside Road and Giant Mascot Mine Road provide plenty of mountain biking
opportunities, while for hikers, Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail and Salmon Falls are
destinations.
Spillimacheen supports a significant arts community and is serviced by a post
office and a number of small businesses, with an economy largely based in farming
and ranching. St. Mark's Anglican Church celebrated its 100th anniversary in
1995.
The annual Spilli Chilli Cookoff is usually held in June. This is a free event,
enjoyed by all ages and includes performances throughout the day by valley musicians.
Chilli cooks from all parts of the Columbia Valley, Calgary and points west
show up to compete for prizes and the votes of the public chilli tasters. Crafters
and artisans showcase their talents.
The drive between Golden and Invermere, with Spillimacheen the halfway point,
follows the Columbia River and its wetlands and is one of the most beautiful
130 km drives you will ever take.
(Text courtesy of Valley Echo)
What Spillimacheen has to offer:
