Mountain Spirit Resort & Spa

If you’ve ever golfed at Bootleg Gap, you’ll be familiar with the natural beauty of Bootleg Gap’s golf course. Once a year in February, the golfers are replaced by dog sledders… and the crowds gather to watch as they race their way around the beautiful championship course at Bootleg Gap. February 5th and 6th 2011 saw the Third Annual Bootleg Sled Dog Races just down the road from Mountain Spirit Resort.

It’s quite a day out for the family. In addition to watching the races and meeting the dogs, there is a silent auction and food available, including a Dinner in Bootleg Gap’s club house on Saturday night. Races are started every hour, with the racers being set off one minute apart. Categories include: 6-Dog Purebred & Open Classes, 4-Dog Purebred & Open Classes, Skijoring and Junior Classes.

I joined the crowds at the finish line to cheer the sledders and their dogs over the finish line.

What’s different about the Bootleg Gap Sled Dog Races is the objective of raising funds and awareness for East Kootenay Friends of Children. Click here to visit the website for Bootleg Sled Dog Races.

Coming across the finish line…

A big part of the fun was seeing lots of beautiful dogs enjoying a rest in the sun.

The spirit has been making the most of the conditions at Kimberley Alpine Resort although there has been the temptation to put on the cross country skis and admire the views from Trickle Creek Golf Course… maybe next week – the groomed downhill runs are just too good for now!

Spa girls on the top of the ski hill, whatever next?

Oh yeah… a resort spa in Mountain Spirit at the base of the ski hill! It looked like Mountain Spirit had already opened it’s spa at the top of the quad chair today. To the surprise of many skiers and boarders, two Mountain Spirit Spa Ladies were enjoying the sun and some cucumber facials in anticipation of the Family Festival. It’s happening Feb 13 – 16th and Mountain Spirit spa skiers will be out and about on the hill. Watch out for them – Mountain Spirit will have some great giveaways during the Family Festival weekend!

What’s new in town – the platzl finally has sushi thanks to Derek and the team at the Green Phoenix! In addition to what I call their “fusion” menu inspired from foreign travels, Derek’s opening the doors of the Green Phoenix on Wednesdays to offer the dining experience of sushi! Way to go Derek!

A fan of Asian cuisine, the spirit sampled one of the Saturday night specials at the Village Bistro last night – real Tandoori Chicken – delicious! It’s great to see more East Indian cuisine available in Kimberley.

Yesterday the crowds hit the slopes – crowds of under 12′s competing in ski racing, putting us oldies to shame! The Root Bear was out again today… makes Kimberley feel like a true family resort!

For those without kids who want a bit of fun in the evening, Sunday night is karaoke night in the Edge. Not only can you sing your lungs out on stage in Andy’s pub, but you can also play pool for free. Maybe see you there!