Hiking and Mountain Spa Island Lake Lodge expands trails

Fernie, B.C., Canada (SANEPR.com) June 6, 2008 -- At the turn of the century railroads stitched the region together transporting passengers, coal and timber. Evidence of this can be found in the Elk Valley near Island Lake Lodge where a new trail - The Rail Trail follows one ancient railway. Utilizing an 80 year old abandoned logging railway, hiking the Rail Trail you will discover old rail tracks, spikes and former mill sites. The trail offers incredible views of the rocky summits like the 3 Bears, the landmark precipices of the Lizard Range.

Steve Kuijt, guide and general manager of Island Lake Lodge explains "This trail completes the link from Mount Fernie Provincial Park, through the valley into the Old Growth Forest to our remote mountain lodge. Our goal at Island Lake is to preserve this unique, natural and historical place for people to walk with their kids, for special times well beyond ours" emphasizing why this trail is a great addition to the continually growing trail network at Island Lake.

Nestled in the southeast corner of British Columbia in the Kootenay Rockies, Island Lake Lodge stands out as the premier hiking and spa resort destination in the region. Island Lake Lodge opens for its summer season on June 13, 2008. The annual Summer Solstice Celebration will be held on Saturday June 21st and will be highlighted by the launch of its newest trail, the historic Rail Trail. This trail is a unique addition to the already extensive trail network found at Island Lake Lodge, connecting the Elk River valley to the alpine through the Old Growth Trail offering visitors an attractive alternative to accessing the lodge and its surrounding terrain.

Join prominent members of the community and press as they explore the Rail Trail and Old Growth Forest through these distinctive trails up to the lodge. Lunch specials in the Bear Bistro, along with other specials to launch our summer season will be offered throughout the day.

About Island Lake Resort:
Secluded in the peaks of Canada's Kootenay Rockies, Island Lake Lodge and Spa sits on 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness, above a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by an Old Growth Forest. Visit www.islandlakelodge.com for more information.