Dive into Fun, Fitness, and Community at the Bulkley Valley Regional Pool and Recreation Centre!
Located in the heart of Smithers, BC, the Bulkley Valley Regional Pool and Recreation Centre is your premier destination for leisure, health, wellness, fitness, and sports. As a not-for-profit facility, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, accessible experiences for residents of all ages across the Bulkley Valley area. Whether you’re looking to swim laps, hit the gym, scale a climbing wall, or enjoy a game of racquetball, our community-driven centre has it all!
About Us: A Community-Built Legacy
Our facility stands as a shining example of community spirit. Established in 1990, it was brought to life through the dedication of local residents who raised an impressive $1.7 million and contributed an additional $0.5 million in in-kind donations. Owned by the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako and operated by the Bulkley Valley Aquatic Centre Management Society (BVACMS), we’re proud to serve as a cornerstone of the Bulkley Valley.
Our funding reflects our deep community ties:
- Approximately 65% of our operating budget comes from generous annual tax grants provided by the Town of Smithers, Village of Telkwa, and Rural Area “A”, distributed through the Regional District.
- The remaining funds are generated through user fees and program revenues, keeping our services affordable and accessible.
Our operations are guided by:
- The BVACMS Board of Directors, a group of up to nine volunteers who oversee financial planning and management.
- The Pool Advisory Committee, featuring representatives from the Town of Smithers, Rural Area “A”, Village of Telkwa, and BVACMS, ensuring long-term sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and community alignment.
Top-Notch Facilities for Every Activity
Our modern facility offers a variety of amenities to suit all interests and fitness levels:
- Swimming Pool:
- A 25-meter 4-lane lap pool ideal for fitness swimming or training.
- A leisure lagoon with a spray feature for family-friendly fun.
- A tot pool for young swimmers and a relaxing 25-person hot tub.
- Fully wheelchair accessible, featuring a ramp into the water and inclusive change rooms.
- Fitness Center:
- A 750 square foot fitness studio stocked with cardio machines, free weights, and strength training equipment.
- Perfect for all fitness enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced athletes.
- Climbing Wall:
- A 22-foot climbing wall with 11 ropes and an 8-foot bouldering cave.
- Routes for all skill levels, including a kiddie wall and challenging climbs (5.6 to 5.12).
- Racquetball Courts:
- Versatile courts for racquetball, squash, or wallyball.
- Book a 1-hour session and enjoy complimentary access to the pool and gym.
- Additional Amenities:
- Pool-side viewing area with patio tables and bleachers for spectators.
- Family change rooms, including wheelchair-accessible options, and a specialized family/wheelchair-accessible change room with a lift.
Programs and Activities for Everyone
Stay active and engaged with our diverse range of programs and services:
- Swimming Programs:
- Swim lessons for all ages and abilities (e.g., Monday 3:45-6:15 pm, Saturday 8:45 am-12:00 pm).
- Aquafit classes like Gentle Fit and Aqua Power (e.g., Tuesday 9:05-9:50 am, 7:15-8:00 pm).
- Public and leisure swims with access to the tot pool and hot tub.
- Fun events like Spring Splash and Easter Bunny Climb.
- Fitness Center Programs:
- High-energy sessions like Power Lunch (Tuesday/Thursday 12:05-12:55 pm) and Early Sweat Camp(Wednesday/Friday 6:15-7:15 am).
- Open gym access with top-tier equipment.
- Climbing Wall Sessions:
- Family-oriented options like Little Rockers (Tuesday 9:30-11:00 am, ages 18 months-5 years) and Family Climb (Saturday 11:30 am-1:00 pm).
- Programs for teens, adults, and seasoned climbers.
- Court Bookings:
- Reserve racquetball, squash, or wallyball courts online or by calling 250.847.4244.
- Includes pool and gym access with every booking.
- Community Events:
- Seasonal highlights like the Easter Bunny Climb and Spring Splash.
- Social programs such as Little Rockers for young kids.
A Community-Driven Mission
As a not-for-profit organization, we’re deeply connected to the Bulkley Valley:
- Funding Support:
- Local tax grants from Smithers, Telkwa, and Rural Area “A” cover most of our costs, supplemented by user fees.
- Volunteer Commitment:
- Our BVACMS Board and Pool Advisory Committee work tirelessly to keep the facility thriving.
- Partnerships:
- We collaborate with local schools, organizations, and volunteers to tailor programs to community needs.
- Growth and Improvement:
- In 2021, we completed a Facility Function and Program Review Study to enhance our offerings based on community input.
Come Visit Us Today!
Discover why the Bulkley Valley Regional Pool and Recreation Centre is the place for healthy fun and community connection. Find us at 1316 Toronto Street, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0, open seven days a week:
- Monday – Friday: 6:30 am – 9:30 pm
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 9:30 pm
- Sunday & Holidays: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Call us at 250.847.4244 or visit our website for more details. Whether you’re swimming in our Smithers swimming pool, working out in our Bulkley Valley fitness center, or scaling our BC climbing wall, your next adventure awaits!
