The forested parks, wide open spaces and shoreline recreation sports command interest and adventures that range from hiking, bicycling, picnicking or seasonal festivals held annually in Port Moody. When the weather is right, a stroll in the fresh air, woodland fragrances abound, and rays of sunshine bursting through the fir tree bows really trigger the sense of new found energy and the understanding why the residents have come to enjoy Port Moody's lifestyle along the Pacific water's edge.
This inspiring environment is truly fitting to be home for so many artists. The artist studios, galleries, artist in the park events, theatre and the support in the community make Port Moody vibrant and lively. If visiting Vancouver, or the Coast Mountains be sure to spend a day or two absorbing the brilliance of Port Moody.
Water enthusiasts can try variations of sport and fitness with kayaking, sailing, fishing charters, canoeing, beaching and boating (launch sites available).
The locals and visitors can time out and enjoy the trendy shops and restaurants of Newport Village, or the Moody Centre historic district, which are one of a kind.
For families, curious individuals and seniors find the recreation programs include rewarding and challenging education and physical classes of all kinds to try out.
Population: 26,000
Highlights:
Noon's Creek Fish Hatchery
Foreshore Park nature walk
Port Moody Station Museum
Golden Spike Days, July 4th
Rocky Point Park with outdoor pool, skateboard park, boat launch, hiking and biking trails, and wildlife viewing.
Festival of the Arts, April.
Artists in the Park, May - September.
History:
Historically, the coastal shores of British Columbia (as it is called today) were populated for thousands of years by First Nation aboriginals. Port Moody (the area/shore) was frequented by the First Nations Salish tribes the Squamish and the Muskwiam who arrived during the summer season to set up camps at the mouths of local streams. They hunted, fished and collected shellfish in preparation for the winter season.
For Port Moody as a new found land in the 1800's, thanks to the arrival of Spainish and British explorers, who mapped the area in search of Sea Otter fur to trade with China, more permanent white settlements came in the pursuit of new opportunity. Port Moody was became significant because it acted as an alternate supply route when the nearby Fraser River was hazardous or blocked.
It wasn't until 1858 and the Cariboo Gold Rush, that the Royal Engineers, led by Colonel Richard Clement Moody were dispatched from England to survey and build plans for the new Crown colony of British Columbia later named in his honour.
Climate:
Summer average 18 degrees Celsius
Winter average 3 degrees Celsius
