Welcome to the Cariboo! My name is Evaline and as a representative of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast, I am here to give you the most exciting and in-depth tour possible! With extensive research done covering every nook and cranny of this place I call home, I want to share some of what the west has to offer.
With over 120,000 square kms and only 73,000 inhabitants, the Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast is both peaceful and pristine. The perfect destination to revive your soul.Breath in an unmatched sense of grandeur and adventure, and renew your mind, body, and soul in this magnificent region.
With the stunning Coast Mountains in the West to the Cariboo Mountains in the East, exists a vast area full of ancient footpaths, outstanding wat
erways,open grasslands, and colourful mountain trails. Find yourself immersed in adventure with thrilling river rafting, ambitious mountain outings, and cycling journeys, you will truly feel alive with the experience of a life time.
From lush green rainforests and flower laden alpine meadows, to untouched rivers and a never-ending coastline, jump in and discover natures offerings as you connect with nature. Challenge yourself using skills against world-class rainbow trout, steelhead, salmon, and halibut in one of North Americas fines areas for fishing. And from majestic grizzly bears to moose, black bears, deer, big horn sheep, whales, and exceptional bird life discover your wild side in a fantastic wildlife setting.
In the mid 1800’s, the lure of “Gold” opened up the Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast region to the world, and tens of thousands of people converged on the bustling boom town of Barkerville. When the Gold Rush declined, a rich pioneering spirit was born as many prospectors settled in the area to start ranches and raise cattle of their own. Today, as horses and cattle still roam, the region’s vibrant communities and colourful characters , you will discover a pioneering sprit very much alive and well.
Now Im sure some of you only want to know about where the good food is and where to find the best room rate but the Cariboo is more then just a pit stop on a map. Diverse in landscape and weather the Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast is a world in its own. Starting out to the east you’ll enter Clinton “Gateway to the Cariboo”. A small village located on HWY 97 is both rich in history and heritage. Once an important stopping place during the gold rush. Take a walking tour through the timeless streets.
Moving farther east making you way into 100 Mill House, there is never a dull moment with never ending entertainment. Take a look through the South Cariboo Farmers Market every Friday and in mid summer be sure to check out the very interest
ing Garlic Festival… where all sorts of things are made from the “stinking rose”. There is also the huge annual Summer Art Show at Parkside Art Gallery, where people can browse and purchase pieces done by local artists.
Now were going to hit the road North bound to Quesnel. July is one of the best times of the year to visit, with the popular Billy Barker Days taking place! With a Saturday morning parade, kids day in LeBourdais Park, seniors activities, events and entertainment, Gold Dust Mall on Reid Street and so much more, it’s a fun filled four days for the whole family. Before you head south again, stop at the world famous Barkerville , the Gold Rush town of British Columbia! Ride the stagecoach, see the miners, pan for gold, and witness the “Hanging Judge” in action! Take a trip back in time, you wont forget it!
Now were going to head “Out West” as locals put it. Highway 20 has about 24 stops you can make, each and every one different and unique. Spanning for 457kms across the Chilcotin region, at the end you will reach Bella Coola , where BC Ferries operates the Discovery Coast Ferry Terminal to connect our beautiful area to Port Hardy on Vancouver Island. Personally living along this highway, in Hance ville, I would say it is by far my favourite area in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast! With the crystal clear Chilcotin River and rimrock canyons right outside my door its like having the whole world in my own back yard! Truly timeless, intimate, and beautiful.
Now as the last stop on our tour we end up in Williams Lake, heart of the Cariboo and my second home. Acting as the main hub of our region I want to take you into greater detail, to make your stay all the more enjoyable! Lets start off with some accommodations, cause your going to need a few days.
Coast Fraser Inn__
Located on 285 Donald Rd. With 79 spacious guest rooms and suites available all newly designed, makes for exceptional amenities for leisure and business travellers alike. Complimentary hot breakfast buffet and admission to Broadway Fitness make this the a very comfortable stay.
___Overlander Hotel
With the convenient restaurant, lounge, pub, banquet, convention center, seinar rooms and just minutes from the airport with shuttle service available, the Overlander is the choice of most travellers. Sitting on 1118 Lakeview Crescent, you have a great walking distance to the downtown core.
Ready for some shopping? Good, cause we have just what your looking for.
In our downtown area we have a variety of shops and stores.
Cipranis Formal ;-
Large selection of bridal gowns and formal wear, and current sponsor (THANK YOU). With very helpful staff, they carry the perfect dress for any occasion.
Fit City_
Offering tanning, fitness, and a selection of the seasons hottest fashion. Again a VERY helpful staff will help you with anything your looking for.
We also have many small boutiques, book sotres, and a toy store most adults admit having fun in...no joke.
While browsing the downtown core, please take note of our Communities in Bloom Program.
They have turned our dusty cow town into a national treasure, with splendid gardens, murals, and three wood sculptures.
Like any town, city, or whatever, we all have our quirks, main attractions, things that define us from anywhere else. Williams Lake is deffiently not lacking, come check out our "Cowboy Museum" the largest museum in BC of its kind, showcasing Rodeo, Ranching, and cowboys history! We have over 40 biking and motor cross trails for all of you thrill seekers. First week of July, celebrating 84 years, the World Famous Williams Lake Stampede takes place, parade, street party, rodeo clowns, and a whole lot of fun included! And of course our Station House Art Gallery should be on your list!
Now you have got to be starving! All of our dining options cover the globe from Western Style cuisne at Big Mama's Steak House to Italian food at Tratoria's Pasta Shop. We also have authentic east indian style cooking, more then one chinease place, and the best sushi this side of Canada! Picky eaters WELCOME!
I could go on and on about all of the things todo and see concerning the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, but I think you should just come and see forTourism Discovery Center, or me personally at missteencariboo@live.com
Also a great video to check out. Click here!
