Coldstream, British Columbia


Coldstream is a district municipality in British Columbia, Canada, located at the northern end of Kalamalka Lake in the Okanagan Valley. Incorporated on December 21, 1906, Coldstream celebrated its centennial in 2006. The municipality is directly southeast of Vernon and is considered part of Greater Vernon. It is a member municipality of, and also the location of the head offices, of the Regional District of North Okanagan.

Coldstream Ranch

Coldstream is known for the Coldstream Ranch, established in 1863 by Captain Charles Frederick Houghton. He transferred the ranch to Forbes G. and Charles Albert Vernon, who in 1891 sold it to The 7th Earl of Aberdeen, future Governor General of Canada. The ranch was purchased by its current owners in 1994 and continues to be a working cattle ranch.

Government

Coldstream is governed by a seven-member council, led by Mayor Jim Garlick. The Member of Parliament is Mel Arnold and the Member of the Legislative Assembly is Eric Foster.

Economy

The Greater Vernon area was once based in forestry and agriculture. However, manufacturing, retail trade and services are now the primary industries. A suburban community known as Middleton Mountain is located in Coldsteam at the north end of Kalamalka Lake.

Demographics

Education

Covered by School District 22 Vernon, Coldstream is home to Coldstream Elementary School, Kidston Elementary School and Kalamalka Secondary School. The municipality is served by the Vernon campus of Okanagan College.

Climate

Coldstream has a dry - almost semi-arid climate - with hot sunny summers and cool cloudy winters.
Weather Facts:
Coldstream is home to Kal Beach, which is located on the shore of Kalamalka Lake. Smaller beaches in the area include Kirkland Beach, Juniper Beach, Tamarack Beach, Long Lake Beach, Jade Bay Beach, Cosens Beach, Pebble Beach, and Cliff Beach. Coldstream borders on Kalamalka Provincial Park, which features numerous groomed hiking trails, scenic views, and natural areas. Wildlife in the park includes black bear, whitetailed deer, rattlesnake, marmot, and other creatures. The Silver Star Mountain Resort, northeast of Coldstream, offers various options for winter sports.