Cultus Lake History

Cultus Lake has been enjoyed for many generations by not only visitors but also residents.

Since the early 1900s, the recreational potential of this area has experienced a gradual but persistent growth, primarily at the north end of the lake. As its popularity grew a joint committee was formed to govern the lake, now governed by the Cultus Lake Parks Board, and shortly after residential development began to emerge.

In 1948, Cultus Lake Provincial Park was established. The Park spans both east and west lake shores to include 656 hectares of land. The east side of the lake has been developed with property and infrastructure, whilst the west side of the lake remains undeveloped due to the steep slopes.

From 1950 to 1980 recreational development at the south end of the lake accelerated, including a number of resort/holiday communities supported by recreational amenities.  Presently, this area is experiencing
intensive development and re-development of recreation sites.

Today, the Cultus Lake community at large has many seasonal and full time residents; an estimated 1 million visitors and over 1000 residents. In addition to the local church and primary school built in the 1940s, the community now offers over 20 different businesses including an outdoor Waterslide Park, an Adventure Park with Rides and Mini Golf, an 18 hole Golf Course, a handful of Restaurants, a Service Station, Post Office, Gift Shop, Superette, as well as a Fire Department and a Community Hall.

With the accelerating demand for recreational property in the lower mainland, Cultus Lake has become and will continue to be one of the most popular destination areas for Lower Mainland residents. The primary attraction of the area aside from its freshwater lake, variety of year round outdoor activities, and mountainous landscape is its close proximity to the home and populated centers.
 

Columbia Valley History

Homesteading in the Columbia Valley began in the late 1800s when settlers moved to the area via the USA and established small farms.

In the early 1900s the logging industry dominated the area, yet in the 1930s-40s the local economy began to shift back to farming but on a much larger scale; milk production and mixed farming became predominant.

In the 1960s recreational development expanded around Cultus Lake bringing standard infrastructure like paved roads and hydro to the Valley.

Today, agriculture in the Columbia Valley has shifted to more soil based farming such as berry, tree farms, hobby farms, etc.