Canada’s Night Sky & Top 10 Sky Events

Milkyway galaxy

“THERE IS IN THE UNIVERSE NEITHER CENTRE NOR CIRCUMFERENCE. ”  ~ Giordani Bruno

The coldest time of the year is upon us, and the long nights that accompany the Winter Season are the best time to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of our stars and planets. Gaze up in wonder at a celestial show above, painted with twinkling stars against a canvas of dark night sky.

 

SPOT THE BRIGHTEST PLANETS IN JANUARY

Wow! This beautiful #ManningParkDarkSky photo from @apixelguy

At the beginning of January, four planets will be visible in the evening sky: Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars. Mars will be particularly bright during this time, so be sure to catch it while you can!

Observe the slight variations in colour between ochre Mars and the yellow-orange Lucida of Taurus. The Red Planet’s disk spans about 14 arcseconds and is large and close enough to be viewed in detail through a telescope.

Interested in exploring the night sky?  You can rent a telescope at Manning Park and discover the wonders of the universe for yourself!

LOOKING FOR ADVENTURE THAT IS AFFORDABLE & FUN

Watch our new stargazing video here.

 Take a trip to Manning Park and stay in BC Park’s fully serviced Skyview RV Campground. Named because the stargazing is SO great in this location!

62 Campsites are available in the Winter and 92 sites in the Summer. All campsites have hook-ups for water, power (50-amp) and sewer. Skyview Campground is near Lightning Lake, and has a heated shower building for your enjoyment.

At Manning Park, you can spend your days carving down the slopes, gliding across 60km’s of Nordic trails, snowshoeing the tranquil beauty of the Cascade Mountains and unwinding by your campfire while covered in a blanket of stars.

(Pro-Tip: Bring your camping chair to enjoy the cosmos from your campsite)

Click to BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW!  

 

NEW PRIVATE TOURS & A PERFECT STARGAZING OPPORTUNITY

Enjoy the beauty of the star-filled night sky, while snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at Manning Park. These events offer a unique and magical experience, perfect for all ages and experience levels. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and marvel at the celestial wonders above.

Private Snowshoe Tour + Chocolate Fondue:

  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour followed by a Chocolate Fondue in our Bears Den Pub.
  • $65/per person (minimum 4 people)

Private Snowshoe Tour + Wine & Charcuterie Board:

  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour followed by Wine & Charcuterie Board in our Bears Den Pub. $79/per person (minimum 4 people)

Private Snowshoe or Cross-Country Guide:

  • $60/Hour (2-Hour minimum requirement)

To reserve your Private Experience, please Email: nordic@manningpark.com

ASTRONOMY NEWS AND MORE…

TOP 10 SKY EVENTS OF 2023 

There are three major meteor showers, including the Perseids, arriving with the Moon mostly out of the way this year.

1- Venus, Saturn, & Crescent Moon at dusk

Date: January 23

Type: Conjunction

Time: Evening

View: Naked eye, binoculars

Click to know more Skynews.ca 

 

TOP 20 STARGAZING APPS

If you’re wondering where to find the Big Dipper or have noticed a reddish dot above you and want to know more, a stargazing app can be a helpful tool. Simply download one to your phone and have access to a wealth of information about the celestial objects visible in the sky.

Click to know more  – Vitotechnology.com  

 

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip Safety Guide

www.porch.com

Winter road trips are great — you can travel to some thrilling locations and have a fantastic winter experience. You might indulge in winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, and curling. Perhaps you enjoy cozy winter holidays in snowy mountain cabins. Winter conditions are hazardous, so you need to be prepared to deal with anything that can go wrong. Snow and ice make it harder for you to slow your car down. Your car may lose traction on hills, or while starting from a complete stop. You’ll want to know what to do in the worst-case scenario and have the materials to help when needed. Winter conditions are livable if you’re a patient driver and prepared for the worst. You can have a safe, joyous trip by knowing the best practices for driving through the snow.

Trucking companies take steps to prevent accidents, whether that be making sure truck drivers have proper safety information, pre-hiring training and tests, and rewarding drivers for safe driving.

Prepare your car for a winter road trip

Tires are an essential factor for a safe winter road trip. Ideally, you’ll have snow or all-season tires with a rating for mud and snow. The cold weather lowers air pressure in tires, so check and fill your tires if needed. Once your tires are winter-ready, you can outfit your car with supplies.

Winter driving and car safety are about preparedness. You’ll often use your windshield wiper fluid, so check that your tank is full, and keep an extra container on hand. Good sunglasses are also a game-changer to handle glares from the sun reflecting off the snow. Ensure your phone is charged, and keep it plugged in during the drive. Gloves and ice scrapers are helpful too.

It’s good to be prepared for the worst before you leave for your winter road trip. Have a large, thick blanket in the trunk and some emergency snacks. If you’re spinning your wheels on a slippery section, sand or kitty litter can provide traction to get you going. Finally, an emergency car kit that contains flairs, a flashlight, jumper cables, and other valuable items is wise to have on hand.

carsafety

What to do before the trip

Before you leave, get an oil change, and ask them to ensure the car is ready for a winter road trip. The technicians will ensure all your fluids are topped off — including your antifreeze (which your car needs in the cold), windshield wiper fluid, and oil. They’ll check the tire pressure and will install winter windshield wipers if you need them. It’s always a good idea to have a paper map if the GPS fails. If the forecast predicts a blizzard, consider an alternative route, or travel on a different day.

How to drive on snow roads and ice

It’s vital to maximize your visibility in winter conditions. Scrape all the ice from your windows and the windshield. Brush all the snow from your car, including the sides and the back. Snow blows away in the wind, and the last thing you want is to suddenly have your vision impaired due to snow from your car.

There may be times you have to brake in slippery conditions. If you have ABS (traction control), push hard on the brake and leave it suppressed until the car fully stops. The ABS may make noise or cause the vehicle to vibrate, but it’s working to help you. If you don’t have ABS, pump the brakes so your vehicle continues to slow as it moves straight.

If you’re fully stopped and struggling to move, tap the gas repeatedly to get a rocking motion going. This method gives you momentum to help push you forward. Traction control can work against you if you’re struggling to get moving. Turn it off, and you should find it more manageable. Be sure to keep your tank over half full for the entire drive. The half a tank is a contingency if you need to pull over so you don’t lose access to heat.

On the road

The best thing you can do in the snow is drive slowly. Your vehicle will struggle to brake, and you may need extra clearance to avoid hitting the car in front of you. It’s best to give the car ahead a lot of distance. It’s also wise to stay in your lane and only pass if you’re sure it’s safe. Winter driving is a hazard, but if you give yourself lots of time to arrive at your destination, you’ll maximize your chances of an uneventful drive.

If conditions are bad, it’s best to pull over rather than risk an accident. Avoid pulling over on the side of the highway if possible, as lanes can be challenging to see in snowy conditions. Oncoming traffic may not realize you’re unmoving on the side of the road.

Bridges and tunnels are likely to form black ice. Black ice is a term for ice that blends into the street. Do not slam the brakes if you see a black ice patch and the car loses control. Take your foot off the gas so the car slows, and tap the brakes in short pumps.

Keep your wheel pointed in the direction you want the car to go.

If you’re on a hill, try not to stop for any reason. You may slide backward, and climbing the hill from a complete stop will be challenging. Avoid aggressively accelerating up the incline, which can cause your tires to spin. Take it slow and steady. When the temperature is below freezing, it’s best to take the road slower than usual. The faster you drive, the harder it is to stop (especially in bad conditions).

Winter driving is all about maintaining control.

Ideally, you can avoid driving in a snowstorm altogether. If you are in one, avoid using the high-beam lights. While this seems counter-intuitive, the snowfall reflects the light and mitigates the efficacy of the high beams. Stick with low beams in heavy snow if you drive in heavy snowfall. In any winter conditions, avoid using cruise control.

How to make the road trip more comfortable

You’ll want to be relaxed and alert for your winter drive. Your comfort is a crucial component, so you can’t afford to focus on discomfort when driving in bad conditions. Choose a comfortable temperature for the vehicle, and keep your windows defrosted. You should also wear your jacket while driving. If you get in an accident, and the heat stops working, you’ll be glad you did.

Have a great playlist ready for your drive, and don’t fiddle with it once your trip begins. If you like snacks, set them up in advance so you can reach them without taking your eyes off the road. The same suggestion applies to coffee or water.

car safety

Winter driving can lead to some enjoyable adventures. Winter conditions aren’t ideal, but if you take your time and go into the drive well-prepared, you’ll have an excellent trip. If winter driving makes you nervous, try finding a large empty parking lot, and practice losing control where you won’t hit anyone. Winter roads can be dangerous but can also lead to beautiful locations. By following the best practices, you’ll arrive safely and be glad you made the trip.

Epic Snow Dump + Winter Camping + Freshly Paved Highway 3

We just received a fresh dump of snow, and now have over 30cm’s up top (see picture above). We are gearing up and excited for our best season ever, and can’t wait to see you on the hill!
OPENING DAY IS DECEMBER 10th, 2022
SO MUCH NEWS COMING YOUR WAY! Did you know?
  • Highway 3 has been repaved and had extensive improvements. It will be a smooth and safe drive out for all of our guests.
  • The Gibson’s Pass Road has now been paved from Highway 3 all the way up to the ski hill.
  • Our Alpine T-Bar has been repaired and is back in operation.
  • We have also done repairs on our Alpine slope and water system.
  • Lobby upgrades in the works!
Look no further for your ticket to Fresh Powder and Winter Adventures. At Manning Park, you can carve your way down the slopes, glide across 60km’s of Nordic trails, snowshoe the majestic and tranquil beauty of the Cascade Mountains, or soak in a hot tub and wind down for the evening at our Rustic Retreat. Your Adventure Starts Here…

We are your Winter Camping Destination, offering 60 full service winterized sites at:
Skyview Campground
An authentic Canadian Outdoor Experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, and the magic winter brings. Skyview campground is connected to the Manning Park trail network, offering you all the facilities you need for an unforgettable stay.

BOOK YOUR SITE TODAY

 

 

Manning Park Resort x Indy Pass

119 Resorts | Two Days at Each Resort | $329

Now in its 4th year, we are thrilled to be part of the @Indyskipass as it heads into its BIGGEST winter season yet. Offering 2 days of skiing per location, at more than 100+ independent resorts and counting. We are proud to be a part of something that aligns with our roots.

The best part is, our pass holders will get exclusive access to the AddOn Indy pass for nearly 30% off. Uncover the joy of skiing and riding at an independent ski resort and join the Indy Revolution today.

Follow the #IndyRevolution on Facebook and Instagram @Indyskipass
Reservations are not required at Manning Park Resort for Indy Pass users.

To buy Indy add-on pass click here

INDY XC PASS

Indy Pass now offers a network of top cross-country resorts from across North America. All Indy Pass holders will receive two trail passes at each resort in addition to their 2 days at downhill resorts.

Indy Pass developed the program in partnership with the Cross Country Ski Areas Association (CCSAA) and will donate 10% of pass sales to the non-profit group.

To buy Indy XC pass click here

Wildfires and Parks Updates 2022

wildfire and park updates

September 8, 2022: The trails that were closed September 7th have reopened.

September 7, 2022: There will be temporary closures for some trails as of now. These closures were requested by BC Wildfire Services to allow helicopters to take water from Lightning Lakes. We urge everyone to keep away from the below-mentioned closure areas for your safety. If the pilots see anyone close to this area, they will have to stop until it is clear.

The temporary trail closures are as follows:

– The trail from the East side of the Lightning Lake Day Use Parking to the trailhead of Mount Frosty. This is the dam area.
– The North side of Lightning Lake Loop Trail from the trailhead of Mount Frosty to Rainbow Bridge.
– Mount Frosty Trail

These closures are temporary and only for fire suppression. There is no risk of fire in this area. Once these trails are re-opened, we will provide an update. 

September 3, 2022: BC Parks has implemented partial trail closures on the south side of HWY #3 within E.C. Manning Provincial Park as a result of the Heather Lake wildfire.

THE FOLLOWING AREAS ARE OPEN:

Manning Park Resort

The resort is fully open and operating as normal. This includes our accommodations, Loon Lagoon, Boathouse, Pinewoods Dining Room, Country Store and full-resort facilities. It is currently under evacuation alert.

Trails South of HWY #3 Now Open

All trails south of HWY#3 are open for use.

Trails under evacuation alert

  • Lightning Lake Chain Trail
  • Canyon Nature Trail
  • Rein Orchid Trail
  • Skyline I (Lightning Lake to Despair Pass)
  • Skyline I (Shadow Lake to Despair Pass)

Trails outside the evacuation alert

  • Skyline II Trail
  • Hozameen Ridge Trail
  • Similkameen Trail
  • South Gibson Trail
  • North Gibson Trail
  • Poland Lake Trail
  • Three Falls Trail
  • Memaloose Trail
  • Silver Daisy Trail
  • Skagit River Trail
  • Steamboat Trail
  • Beaver Pond Trail
  • Bonnevier Trail
  • Upper Hope Pass (past Grainger Creek)
  • Nicomen Lake Trail (north of Nicomen Lake)
  • Whipsaw Rd (in the Park; outside of the Park is covered by an area closure)

The Dewdney and Whatcom Trails and facilities West of the Cascade Parking Area also remain open at this time.

Front-Country Campgrounds

Hampton and Mule Deer Campground and Hampton are closed. All other front-country campgrounds are open and operating as normal. This includes Lightning Lake, Coldspring, Headwaters Horse Corral, and Lone Duck 1 & 2.

The campgrounds are currently under evacuation alert.

Cascade Lookout & Blackwall Road

Cascade Lookout and Blackwall Road will operate as normal and remain open.


BC PARKS PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES HAVE RESULTED IN THE FOLLOWING CLOSURES:

These trails are under Evacuation Order

Trail Closures

The following trails remain closed as a precautionary measure:

  • Monument 78 Trail (Castle Creek Trail)
  • Monument 83 Trail
  • Pacific Crest Trail (PCT Camp to Monument 78 Camp)
  • Mt Frosty Loop (Similkameen Trail to Frosty Mt Peak)
  • Windy Joe Trail (Mt Frosty Loop to Windy Joe lookout)
  • Mt Frosty Loop (Lightning Lake Day Use to Frosty Mt Peak)

Evacuation Order vs. Evacuation Alert

Many wildfires in B.C. occur far from cities and towns, but sometimes they threaten homes, businesses and infrastructure. If a wildfire ends up threatening property or infrastructure, an Evacuation Alert or Order may be issued. What’s the difference?

Evacuation Alert

There is no immediate danger to those under an evacuation alert. This is the time to get prepared to leave your home on short notice. Get your grab-and-go bags ready (which should include several days of clothing, toiletries and medications), your emergency plan, copies of important documents and important mementos.

Listen to local emergency officials for further information on the situation.

Evacuation Order

Leave the area immediately. Follow the directions of local emergency officials and evacuate using the route(s) they’ve identified. Do not return home until you’ve been advised that the Evacuation Order has been rescinded. For those needing additional support, an Emergency Support Services Reception Centre may be opened.


As always, the safety of our guests, community, and staff is our top priority. We are in daily communication with BC Parks and BC Wildfire regarding the status of local wildfires. Should any changes in the current situation arise, we will update the public immediately.

Just an additional reminder that no campfires are permitted as the entire park is under a campfire ban. Please always be responsible as any heat source can start a fire. For example: vehicle exhaust pipes, cigarette butts, etc.

For current wildfire information, visit: BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), and the Regional District.

For current highway information, visit: Drive BC

Besties

We visit Manning every year with our family but this summer we shared our trip with old friends ( haven’t camped with them in 40 years ) and they have never dry camped before . The weather was perfect along with a beautiful campsite & great getaway.we hiked, biked ,swam , paddled boarded and kayaked , oh & ate & drank 👍 Love you Manning Park !

Happy Trails

Best Date Day with the Hubby! It’s great to explore my favourite childhood places with him by my side : )

Lightning Lake Helicopter

So many memories of camping in Manning park. My first trip was in 1995 with my boyfriend who became my husband. We have carried on the tradition of coming to Lightening Lake for the past 10 years with our daughter and my brother-in-law’s family.

This photo is from last year when the Fat Dog Creek fire started.