5 things to try in Quesnel

Things to try in Quesnel this summer5

1.Connect with nature on our trails.

Hike the short 1 km trail in Pinnacles Provincial Park for panoramic views of the ancient hoodoos or do some bird watching from the viewing platform on the nature trail in West Fraser Timber Park, right in city limits. If mountain biking is your thing, check out the unique, rocky terrain on Dragon Mountain or climb up Flying Monkeys in Wonderland for a spectacular view of Dragon Lake. The options are endless for all hiking and biking ability levels and our Quesnel Visitor Centre staff can help direct you to a trail that’s right for you.

2. Catch your dinner.

Cast a line into one of our well-stocked lakes and cook up some fresh trout around the campfire. Dragon Lake, Ten Mile Lake, and Bouchie Lake are easily accessed from town. Tzenzaicut Lake is a bit farther out, but is also known as Fish Lake for a reason – it’s almost impossible NOT to catch a fish there. If you don’t have a rod, you can borrow one for free with a tackle box from the Quesnel Visitor Centre.

3. Get a history lesson.

First, pick up the Historic Driving Tour map from the Quesnel Visitor Centre, then set your odometer to zero and head down Highway 26, stopping at Cottonwood House, Mexican Hill, Blessings Grave, and Stanley along your way. Step back in time to the gold rush when you arrive at Barkerville Historic Town and Park. Spend a day (or more) living like it’s 1862 before returning to present day and Quesnel where you can dig further into the area’s history at the Quesnel & District Museum and Archives, and take a historic walking tour of downtown.

4. Reid Street.

Quesnel’s downtown is worth exploring. Take a walk down our revitalized main strip and adjacent streets to check out the shops, cafes and restaurants; many have outdoor dining options. Or, maybe pick up some delicious takeout and find a space of your own at LeBourdais Park. The kids can play on the new playground or in the spray park to cool off. Our new pedestrian wayfinding signage will help you navigate our downtown.

5. Stretch your legs.

If you’re looking for a trail where urban meets nature, our Riverfront Trail is just the place. This trails system makes a 5 km loop around downtown Quesnel, passing Heritage Corner and our iconic Fraser River Footbridge. Pass over the bridge to lengthen your walk on the 4 km loop in West Quesnel. Signs along the way share information about our community’s past and present. Keep your eye on the riverbanks for blue herons, foxes, and other wildlife that inhabit the area.

Adventure in our backyard.

We have trails for days. tourismquesnel.com