Wilderness… Just A Step Away

Come and write your own adventure story. For hundreds of years, the North Thompson Valley’s geographical and ecological wonders have enchanted visitors. Discover the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, explore alpine meadows and subalpine forests along the way. Then, experience the vast quiet of the tundra at the base of a glacier and contrast it with the roar of crashing waterfalls dotted through the region. This is Canada’s wild kingdom - wilderness is just a step away. Watch for a cadre of curious creatures in your adventures; grizzly and black bears, wolves, moose, eagles, deer, and salmon, among others, call this land home.

Take on any trail in the region, and you’re exploring the trails blazed by the Simpcw and Canim Lake First Nations. The Simpcw and the Tsq’escenemc are members of the Secwépemc, or Shuswap Nation, whose traditional territory encompasses much of the North Thompson Valley. Wonder flows rampant on the South Thompson, North Thompson, Clearwater and Fraser Rivers. We have hundreds of lakes that vary in size, from quaint fishing holes to ones with seemingly endless shorelines. Traverse from the ranchlands to the mountains as they climb higher and higher until you reach Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Witness the spectacle of 41 named waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park, which features Canada’s fourth-highest waterfall, Helmcken Falls. Our beauty lies in our diversity, and it’s all here in the North Thompson Valley.

BARRIERE/LOWER NORTH THOMPSON

Bound by rivers and home to over 100 lakes, Barriere/ Lower North Thompson has some of the best freshwater fishing in the world. Frame your excursions with a backdrop composed of lush ranchland, forests, and the rounded slopes of the Monashee Mountains. Then, take a break from the excitement and enjoy our golf courses and a lovely wine trail. Learn about the Simpcw (people of the North Thompson River) and the Tk’emlúpsemc (people of the confluence), who have lived here as far back as the eye of history can see. Experience the yearly Kamloopa PowWow, hosted by the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc (formerly known as the Kamloops Indian Band). Rest in backcountry bliss with year-round ranches, lodges and fishing camps. It’s time to experience a land steeped in rich cowboy history and Indigenous culture. Indulge in history that features deep roots. Find both at the Fall Fair and Rodeo, held every Labour Day Weekend.

CLEARWATER/WELLS GRAY

You can’t beat Clearwater for wildlife and adventure, as it’s the gate of “Canada’s Waterfall Park”. Wells Gray Provincial Park features 41 named waterfalls, with Canada’s fourth-highest waterfall, Helmcken Falls, being the crown jewel. Hike in the heart of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, paddle pristine lakes, and raft on some of Canada’s fiercest rapids. With over 200 km of hiking trails through pristine lands, this is the Canada you’ve dreamed about. Bring your tent or RV and camp in grand provincial parks and private campgrounds, or treat yourself to rest and relaxation at our cozy cabins and B&Bs. In the winter, witness the wonder of Wells Gray’s frozen waterfalls, leave snowshoe footprints along the trails, and ski tour the backcountry from hut to hut in the Trophy Mountains. Keep a watchful eye all year round for wildlife, including bears, deer, moose and birds.

Blue River

Blue River lies on the edge of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, at the confluence of the North Thompson and Blue Rivers. There’s an exceptional snowpack in winter, perfect for world-class heli-skiing, cross-country & backcountry skiing, and snowmobiling. Commune with nature as you paddle Murtle Lake, located within Wells Gray Provincial Park, the largest nonmotorized lake in North America. In summer, take the time to hike or bike, and in winter, take advantage of groomed cross-country ski trails, enjoying epic vistas along the way. Blue River is a rich habitat for black bears, among many other animals, such as moose, deer, elk, caribou, mountain goats, beavers and large cats.

Valemount

Welcome to Valemount, for year-round adventures! Located along the Yellowhead Highway, and seemingly crowned by majestic mountain peaks of the Cariboo, Canadian Rockies, and Monashee Mountain ranges, this vibrant village welcomes you to come explore. Rest and replenish within the community at one of the variety of accommodations and eateries before heading out for your outdoor adventures. With so many excursions to choose from you will be wanting to come back again and again! Raft down the river on a thrilling scenic tour, feel and breath in the fresh breeze as you ride horseback or hike on a mountain trail. Cruise downhill on your mountain bike at the Valemount Bike Park where there are a variety of trails for all ages and riding abilities. Cast a line, or go boating on Kinbasket Lake. Go camping at one of the designated campsites, and enjoy a night under the stars. Take in the beautiful sunsets, and sunrises that paint the sky with shimmering colors that reflect off the snow-covered mountain tops. View wildlife, Chinook and Kokanee Salmon.

In the cooler months enjoy winter excursions such as dogsledding, snowshoeing, CAT, cross-country, downhill, backcountry and heliskiing. For a unique to Valemount activity try split boarding or ski touring at Crystal Ridge, the only sled-assisted ski hill in the world. Take the family tobogganing on Five Mile hill.