BARRIERE | CLEARWATER | BLUE RIVER | VALEMOUNT
NORTH THOMPSON V A L L E Y V I S I T O R
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Wilderness...just just aastep awayaway Wilderness... step NorthThompson.ca NorthThompson.ca | #norththompson
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Cruise the teal waters of Kinbasket Lake Kinbasket Lake Photo Kelly Funk Photography
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Cruise the teal waters of Kinbasket Lake Kinbasket Lake Photo Kelly Funk Photography
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NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 3
North Thompson River, winding through the banks of the Yellowhead View of the North Thompson River above the town of Barriere Photo Allen Jones
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North Thompson River, winding through the banks of the Yellowhead View of the North Thompson River above the town of Barriere Photo Allen Jones
4 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 5
CONTENTS
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Moul falls, Wells Gray Park, Clearwater, BC
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Our Story
6 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
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NORTHTHOMPSON V
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Barriere/Lower North Thompson
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Map
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Copyright 2020 © North Thompson Valley Marketing a partnership of Lower North Thompson Tourism, Tourism Wells Gray, Tourism Valemount and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.
Clearwater/Wells Gray
26
Design: Roger Handling terrafda.com
Blue River
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Valemount
40
Events
45
Wilderness... just a step away
Copywriting: Darcy Nybo alwayswrite.ca Printing, layout, advertising sales and ad design by Black Press Photography: Kelly Funk Photography, Allen Jones, Tourism Wells Gray, Boosted Imagery, Royce Sihlis, Connie Falk, NTFFRA files Kristina Bradley, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Interior Whitewater expeditions (IWE), Adam Stein, Dan Roberts Photography, Throttle Ops Photography Cover photo: Kelly Funk Photography
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 7
CONTENTS
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Moul falls, Wells Gray Park, Clearwater, BC
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Our Story
6 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
8
NORTHTHOMPSON V
A
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L
E
Y
Barriere/Lower North Thompson
14
Map
24
Copyright 2020 © North Thompson Valley Marketing a partnership of Lower North Thompson Tourism, Tourism Wells Gray, Tourism Valemount and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.
Clearwater/Wells Gray
26
Design: Roger Handling terrafda.com
Blue River
36
Valemount
40
Events
45
Wilderness... just a step away
Copywriting: Darcy Nybo alwayswrite.ca Printing, layout, advertising sales and ad design by Black Press Photography: Kelly Funk Photography, Allen Jones, Tourism Wells Gray, Boosted Imagery, Royce Sihlis, Connie Falk, NTFFRA files Kristina Bradley, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Interior Whitewater expeditions (IWE), Adam Stein, Dan Roberts Photography, Throttle Ops Photography Cover photo: Kelly Funk Photography
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 7
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
OUR STORY
Photo Tourism Wells Gray
OUR STORY
Mother Nature’s canvas, the Painted Turtle
Step out on any trail and you’re hiking in the footsteps of 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.
Adventure abounds on the South Thompson, North Thompson, Clearwater and Fraser Rivers. We have hundreds of lakes that vary in size from small fishing holes to ones with Learn more about the North Thompson at norththompson.ca
Top Experiences of the North Thompson Valley
Wilderness… Just A Step Away
Come and write your own adventure story. The North Thompson Valley’s geographical and ecological wonders have enchanted visitors for hundreds of years. Discover the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. Explore our alpine and sub-alpine forests. Experience the tundra at the base of a glacier. This is Canada’s wild kingdom where wilderness is just a step away. Watch for grizzly and black bears, wolves, moose, eagles, deer, salmon and more along the way. Berg Lake Trail, Mount Robson Photo Kelly Funk Photography
8 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
1 Catch the big one year-round at lakes along Hwy 24 (Land of Hidden Waters) or at one of the many other lakes in the region
7 Hike hut-to-hut on guided excursions through the wilds of Wells Gray Provincial Park
2 Enjoy the tranquillity of Murtle Lake: paddles only, no motors allowed
8 Hike through the wildflowers in Wells Gray Provincial Park
3 Ride the rapids, or float down one of our rivers at a leisurely pace
9 Take a backcountry snowmobile tour in Valemount and Blue River
4 Stand in awe of Helmcken Falls and other waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park
10 Hike or heli-tour Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
5 Hold your breath as you watch the eight second ride at the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo in Barriere
11 Experience untracked snow heli-skiing in Blue River
6 Live the ranch life and learn how to be a horse whisperer near Pinantan Lake
12 Discover the winged beauties at Cranberry Marsh in Valemount
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 9
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
OUR STORY
Photo Tourism Wells Gray
OUR STORY
Mother Nature’s canvas, the Painted Turtle
Step out on any trail and you’re hiking in the footsteps of 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.
Adventure abounds on the South Thompson, North Thompson, Clearwater and Fraser Rivers. We have hundreds of lakes that vary in size from small fishing holes to ones with Learn more about the North Thompson at norththompson.ca
Top Experiences of the North Thompson Valley
Wilderness… Just A Step Away
Come and write your own adventure story. The North Thompson Valley’s geographical and ecological wonders have enchanted visitors for hundreds of years. Discover the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. Explore our alpine and sub-alpine forests. Experience the tundra at the base of a glacier. This is Canada’s wild kingdom where wilderness is just a step away. Watch for grizzly and black bears, wolves, moose, eagles, deer, salmon and more along the way. Berg Lake Trail, Mount Robson Photo Kelly Funk Photography
8 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
1 Catch the big one year-round at lakes along Hwy 24 (Land of Hidden Waters) or at one of the many other lakes in the region
7 Hike hut-to-hut on guided excursions through the wilds of Wells Gray Provincial Park
2 Enjoy the tranquillity of Murtle Lake: paddles only, no motors allowed
8 Hike through the wildflowers in Wells Gray Provincial Park
3 Ride the rapids, or float down one of our rivers at a leisurely pace
9 Take a backcountry snowmobile tour in Valemount and Blue River
4 Stand in awe of Helmcken Falls and other waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park
10 Hike or heli-tour Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
5 Hold your breath as you watch the eight second ride at the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo in Barriere
11 Experience untracked snow heli-skiing in Blue River
6 Live the ranch life and learn how to be a horse whisperer near Pinantan Lake
12 Discover the winged beauties at Cranberry Marsh in Valemount
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 9
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY frozen waterfalls, break trail with your snowshoes, and ski tour the backcountry from hut-to-hut in the Trophy Mountains. Bring your binoculars and view wildlife, including bears, deer, moose and birds year-round.
seemingly endless shorelines. Explore 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, British Columbia’s fourth largest provincial park. Our beauty lies in our diversity, and it’s all here in the North Thompson Valley.
Water adventure or snowmobiling Blue River has what you are looking for
Photo Tourism Wells Gray
The North Thompson hosts a wide variety of events all year long
River), and the Tk’emlúpsemc (people of the confluence), who have lived here as far back as recorded history. Experience the yearly Kamloopa PowWow, hosted by the Tk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc (formerly known as the Kamloops Indian Band). Come stay at our year-round ranches,
lodges and fishing camps. It’s time to experience a land steeped in rich cowboy history and aboriginal culture. You can get both at the Fall Fair and Rodeo, held every Labour Day Weekend.
Clearwater/Wells Gray
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
The lakes and rivers of the lower valley are a fishers’ paradise
10 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
For wildlife and adventure, you can’t beat Clearwater, located on the edge of Wells Gray Provincial Park. Helmcken Falls is Canada’s fourth highest waterfall and just one of over 41 named waterfalls you’ll find in Wells Gray. Come and hike in the heart of the world’s only inland temperate rain forest, paddle pristine lakes, and raft on some of Canada’s fiercest rapids. With over 200kms of hiking trails through pristine lands, this is the Canada you’ve dreamed about. Bring your tent or RV and camp in our provincial parks and private campgrounds, or treat yourself to rest and relaxation at our notable B&Bs. In the winter, witness the wonder of Wells Gray’s
Blue River lies on the edge of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, at the confluence of the North Thompson and Blue Rivers. In winter, there’s an exceptional snow pack, perfect for world-class heli-skiing, CAT, cross-country and backcountry skiing, and snowmobiling. Commune with nature as you paddle Murtle Lake, located within Wells Gray Provincial Park, the largest non-motorized lake in North America. Take the time to hike, bike or cross country ski our maintained trails, enjoying scenic views along the way.
Photo Boosted Imagery
Blue River
Barriere/Lower North Thompson
Drop into the local Barriere Visitor Centre or visit us online at visitbarriere.com for more information. Bounded by rivers and home to over 100 lakes, Barriere/Lower North Thompson has some of the best freshwater fishing in the world. Lush ranchland, forests, and the rounded slopes of the Monashee Mountains are a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. For something more laid back, explore our golf courses and our new wine trail. Learn about the Simpcw (people of the North Thompson
OUR STORY
II and III rapids on the Fraser River or kick back and watch the golden eagles soaring above on a float trip. Check out the Valemount Bike Park where riders of all ages and abilities will find a trail just right for them. At Cranberry Marsh you can go birding, hiking or canoeing. Come back in the winter to skate, ski or snowshoe on the pond.
Valemount
Valemount lays claim to majestic Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and the Berg Lake Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the winter, enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dogsledding, CAT, cross-country and backcountry skiing. Check out powerboarding at Crystal Ridge, the only sled-assisted ski hill in the world. It’s all part of winter fun. Our striking snow-capped mountain peaks create a perfect backdrop for your epic adventure. In the warmer months, cast your line and reel in Rainbow and Bull Trout and Whitefish from one of our rivers or Kinbasket Lake. Marvel at the Chinook Salmon Run, the second longest inland migration in the world. Take to the trails by foot, horseback or ATV. Ride the class
North Thompson and Columbia Icefields Loop
This circle tour is much more than a drive through the mountains.
This picturesque wilderness loop will take your breath away. This is the quintessential Canadian road trip, taking you from UNESCO World Heritage site to off-the-beaten path gems. Your journey through the North Thompson Valley and Columbia Icefields Parkway is as real as it gets. There’s easy access to the Columbia Icefields from Valemount in the North Thompson along Hwy 16 east to Jasper. Take your time and explore Banff and Jasper National Parks. Marvel at the stunning vistas,
Venturing into the ice age – hiking on the flanks of Mount Robson
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
OUR STORY
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 11
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY frozen waterfalls, break trail with your snowshoes, and ski tour the backcountry from hut-to-hut in the Trophy Mountains. Bring your binoculars and view wildlife, including bears, deer, moose and birds year-round.
seemingly endless shorelines. Explore 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, British Columbia’s fourth largest provincial park. Our beauty lies in our diversity, and it’s all here in the North Thompson Valley.
Water adventure or snowmobiling Blue River has what you are looking for
Photo Tourism Wells Gray
The North Thompson hosts a wide variety of events all year long
River), and the Tk’emlúpsemc (people of the confluence), who have lived here as far back as recorded history. Experience the yearly Kamloopa PowWow, hosted by the Tk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc (formerly known as the Kamloops Indian Band). Come stay at our year-round ranches,
lodges and fishing camps. It’s time to experience a land steeped in rich cowboy history and aboriginal culture. You can get both at the Fall Fair and Rodeo, held every Labour Day Weekend.
Clearwater/Wells Gray
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
The lakes and rivers of the lower valley are a fishers’ paradise
10 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
For wildlife and adventure, you can’t beat Clearwater, located on the edge of Wells Gray Provincial Park. Helmcken Falls is Canada’s fourth highest waterfall and just one of over 41 named waterfalls you’ll find in Wells Gray. Come and hike in the heart of the world’s only inland temperate rain forest, paddle pristine lakes, and raft on some of Canada’s fiercest rapids. With over 200kms of hiking trails through pristine lands, this is the Canada you’ve dreamed about. Bring your tent or RV and camp in our provincial parks and private campgrounds, or treat yourself to rest and relaxation at our notable B&Bs. In the winter, witness the wonder of Wells Gray’s
Blue River lies on the edge of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, at the confluence of the North Thompson and Blue Rivers. In winter, there’s an exceptional snow pack, perfect for world-class heli-skiing, CAT, cross-country and backcountry skiing, and snowmobiling. Commune with nature as you paddle Murtle Lake, located within Wells Gray Provincial Park, the largest non-motorized lake in North America. Take the time to hike, bike or cross country ski our maintained trails, enjoying scenic views along the way.
Photo Boosted Imagery
Blue River
Barriere/Lower North Thompson
Drop into the local Barriere Visitor Centre or visit us online at visitbarriere.com for more information. Bounded by rivers and home to over 100 lakes, Barriere/Lower North Thompson has some of the best freshwater fishing in the world. Lush ranchland, forests, and the rounded slopes of the Monashee Mountains are a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. For something more laid back, explore our golf courses and our new wine trail. Learn about the Simpcw (people of the North Thompson
OUR STORY
II and III rapids on the Fraser River or kick back and watch the golden eagles soaring above on a float trip. Check out the Valemount Bike Park where riders of all ages and abilities will find a trail just right for them. At Cranberry Marsh you can go birding, hiking or canoeing. Come back in the winter to skate, ski or snowshoe on the pond.
Valemount
Valemount lays claim to majestic Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and the Berg Lake Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the winter, enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dogsledding, CAT, cross-country and backcountry skiing. Check out powerboarding at Crystal Ridge, the only sled-assisted ski hill in the world. It’s all part of winter fun. Our striking snow-capped mountain peaks create a perfect backdrop for your epic adventure. In the warmer months, cast your line and reel in Rainbow and Bull Trout and Whitefish from one of our rivers or Kinbasket Lake. Marvel at the Chinook Salmon Run, the second longest inland migration in the world. Take to the trails by foot, horseback or ATV. Ride the class
North Thompson and Columbia Icefields Loop
This circle tour is much more than a drive through the mountains.
This picturesque wilderness loop will take your breath away. This is the quintessential Canadian road trip, taking you from UNESCO World Heritage site to off-the-beaten path gems. Your journey through the North Thompson Valley and Columbia Icefields Parkway is as real as it gets. There’s easy access to the Columbia Icefields from Valemount in the North Thompson along Hwy 16 east to Jasper. Take your time and explore Banff and Jasper National Parks. Marvel at the stunning vistas,
Venturing into the ice age – hiking on the flanks of Mount Robson
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
OUR STORY
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 11
WILDERNESS‌ JUST A STEP AWAY
Getting Here
wildlife and over 100 glaciers. Visit the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Maligne Lake is also home to the world-famous Spirit Island. Make your return trip via the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 and connect to the North Thompson at Kamloops.
then drive north on Highway 5. From Vancouver, take Highway 1 east until Hope where you’ll connect with Highway 5 and drive north. The closest regional airport is in
OUR STORY
Kamloops, British Columbia, with international airports in Kelowna, and Vancouver, British Columbia. Airport access is also available through Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta.
The is plenty to see what every your mode of transportation may be
Explore the 330 km (204 mi) long North Thompson Valley in the north central region of British Columbia via Yellowhead Hwy 5. From southern British Columbia and the United States, head north up Route 97 to Kamloops, then follow Highway 5 north. From Edmonton and Jasper, Alberta, take Highway 16 across the Alberta border and then head south down Highway 5. From Calgary and Banff, Alberta, drive west on Highway 1 to Kamloops,
12 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Allen Jones
Getting Here
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 13
WILDERNESS‌ JUST A STEP AWAY
Getting Here
wildlife and over 100 glaciers. Visit the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Maligne Lake is also home to the world-famous Spirit Island. Make your return trip via the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 and connect to the North Thompson at Kamloops.
then drive north on Highway 5. From Vancouver, take Highway 1 east until Hope where you’ll connect with Highway 5 and drive north. The closest regional airport is in
OUR STORY
Kamloops, British Columbia, with international airports in Kelowna, and Vancouver, British Columbia. Airport access is also available through Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta.
The is plenty to see what every your mode of transportation may be
Explore the 330 km (204 mi) long North Thompson Valley in the north central region of British Columbia via Yellowhead Hwy 5. From southern British Columbia and the United States, head north up Route 97 to Kamloops, then follow Highway 5 north. From Edmonton and Jasper, Alberta, take Highway 16 across the Alberta border and then head south down Highway 5. From Calgary and Banff, Alberta, drive west on Highway 1 to Kamloops,
12 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Allen Jones
Getting Here
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 13
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
BARRIERE / LOWER NORTH THOMPSON
BARRIERE
Photo Royce Sihlis
Wild flower meadow paint the valley
Year-Round Recreation
Wintertime means it’s time to get out into the wild. Soak up the quiet as you ice fish on one of our hundreds of lakes. Explore the Lower North Thompson Valley on cross-country skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles. As temperatures rise, these same trails turn into hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. You may find yourself beside a river or lake, enjoying wildflower meadows or up on windswept
Wild, Rustic, Irresistible Adventure awaits you along the roads less travelled. Come experience the Lower North Thompson, where badlands transform into ranchland, forests, and mountains. Hundreds of lakes cover the Lower North Thompson Valley and are renowned for fishing. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, deer, moose, coyotes, bears, game birds and birds of prey. Barriere lies at the junction of the North Thompson and Barriere Rivers. Come and explore Adams Lake, Bonaparte, Chu Chua Cottonwood Provincial Park and the Dunn Peak Protected Area. Fuel up at one of the several restaurants, from fast food to cafés to steak houses.
craggy trails. Go east at km 15 on Dunn Lake Road for moderate to extreme trails that are great for mountain biking and hiking. Drive west on Hwy 24 (Land of Hidden Waters) off Highway 5 and you’ll find some of the best year-round fishing spots. There are also fly-in fishing camps where you can spend your days on the water and your nights by the fire. While you are here, visit Dunn Lake
BARRIERE ICONIC EXPERIENCES Fall Fair and Rodeo Ranch Stays Fishing/Fish Hatchery Paul Lake – the large number of lakes in the Barriere/Lower North Thompson region makes it a paradise for anglers
Kamloopa PowWow Drop into the local Barriere Visitor Centre or visit us online at visitbarriere.com for more information.
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
14 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 15
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
BARRIERE / LOWER NORTH THOMPSON
BARRIERE
Photo Royce Sihlis
Wild flower meadow paint the valley
Year-Round Recreation
Wintertime means it’s time to get out into the wild. Soak up the quiet as you ice fish on one of our hundreds of lakes. Explore the Lower North Thompson Valley on cross-country skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles. As temperatures rise, these same trails turn into hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. You may find yourself beside a river or lake, enjoying wildflower meadows or up on windswept
Wild, Rustic, Irresistible Adventure awaits you along the roads less travelled. Come experience the Lower North Thompson, where badlands transform into ranchland, forests, and mountains. Hundreds of lakes cover the Lower North Thompson Valley and are renowned for fishing. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, deer, moose, coyotes, bears, game birds and birds of prey. Barriere lies at the junction of the North Thompson and Barriere Rivers. Come and explore Adams Lake, Bonaparte, Chu Chua Cottonwood Provincial Park and the Dunn Peak Protected Area. Fuel up at one of the several restaurants, from fast food to cafés to steak houses.
craggy trails. Go east at km 15 on Dunn Lake Road for moderate to extreme trails that are great for mountain biking and hiking. Drive west on Hwy 24 (Land of Hidden Waters) off Highway 5 and you’ll find some of the best year-round fishing spots. There are also fly-in fishing camps where you can spend your days on the water and your nights by the fire. While you are here, visit Dunn Lake
BARRIERE ICONIC EXPERIENCES Fall Fair and Rodeo Ranch Stays Fishing/Fish Hatchery Paul Lake – the large number of lakes in the Barriere/Lower North Thompson region makes it a paradise for anglers
Kamloopa PowWow Drop into the local Barriere Visitor Centre or visit us online at visitbarriere.com for more information.
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
14 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 15
WILDERNESS‌ JUST A STEP AWAY Get your cowboy on in back country
BARRIERE
Hatchery, managed and operated by the Simpcw First Nation. Salmon are raised here to support the local waterways. Amid all the wild, get in a game or two of golf. Lush fairways with well-groomed greens offer a variety of challenges. Courses include: Chinook Cove Golf and RV, a 9-hole, championship golf course; Bighorn Golf and Country Club a desert golf course; and Rivershore Golf, a fun and challenging course for all levels.
16 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Allen Jones
Photo Connie Falk
Experienced some of areas the best fishing holes
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 17
WILDERNESS‌ JUST A STEP AWAY Get your cowboy on in back country
BARRIERE
Hatchery, managed and operated by the Simpcw First Nation. Salmon are raised here to support the local waterways. Amid all the wild, get in a game or two of golf. Lush fairways with well-groomed greens offer a variety of challenges. Courses include: Chinook Cove Golf and RV, a 9-hole, championship golf course; Bighorn Golf and Country Club a desert golf course; and Rivershore Golf, a fun and challenging course for all levels.
16 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Allen Jones
Photo Connie Falk
Experienced some of areas the best fishing holes
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 17
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
BARRIERE
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Tee off in the Lower North Thompson at Chinook Cove Golf and RV
18 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 19
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
BARRIERE
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Tee off in the Lower North Thompson at Chinook Cove Golf and RV
18 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 19
Photo NTFFRA files - Kristina Bradley
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Catch some action at the rodeo
Giddy-Up
Spend your day paddling tranquil waters
Photo Allen Jones
This is ranch country. Come live the ranch life at Jandana Ranch. Do your chores and brush down the horses. You’ll learn how to communicate with the horses on their level. As a reward, you get to head out and explore the valley on the back of your trusty steed. Be one of the 10,000 plus visitors that get their cowboy on at the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo every Labour Day weekend. You can see, smell and taste the community pride in the locals’ handicrafts. For some excitement, make sure you take in the bull riding, steer wrestling and logger sports. Relax at night with family dances, cabarets and cowboy poetry. 20 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
BARRIERE
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 21
Photo NTFFRA files - Kristina Bradley
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Catch some action at the rodeo
Giddy-Up
Spend your day paddling tranquil waters
Photo Allen Jones
This is ranch country. Come live the ranch life at Jandana Ranch. Do your chores and brush down the horses. You’ll learn how to communicate with the horses on their level. As a reward, you get to head out and explore the valley on the back of your trusty steed. Be one of the 10,000 plus visitors that get their cowboy on at the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo every Labour Day weekend. You can see, smell and taste the community pride in the locals’ handicrafts. For some excitement, make sure you take in the bull riding, steer wrestling and logger sports. Relax at night with family dances, cabarets and cowboy poetry. 20 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
BARRIERE
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 21
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
BARRIERE
Come celebrate the Secwepemc people at the Kamloopa PowWow, put on by the Tk’emlúpsemc First Nation. Enjoy the dancing, drumming and art by traditional artists.
Accommodation
Sleep soundly under the stars, or cuddle under the blanket beside a cozy fireplace. You’ll find lodges, resorts, guest ranches, hotels, motels and inns in the Lower North Thompson. Pick your level of wild and snuggle in for a good night’s sleep. Several of the resorts here have camping and RV sites and there are dozens of private and provincial campgrounds here.
An ambulance of trails in the Barriere/Lower North Thompson region can be appreciated during every season. Photo Connie Falk
22 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 23
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
BARRIERE
Come celebrate the Secwepemc people at the Kamloopa PowWow, put on by the Tk’emlúpsemc First Nation. Enjoy the dancing, drumming and art by traditional artists.
Accommodation
Sleep soundly under the stars, or cuddle under the blanket beside a cozy fireplace. You’ll find lodges, resorts, guest ranches, hotels, motels and inns in the Lower North Thompson. Pick your level of wild and snuggle in for a good night’s sleep. Several of the resorts here have camping and RV sites and there are dozens of private and provincial campgrounds here.
An ambulance of trails in the Barriere/Lower North Thompson region can be appreciated during every season. Photo Connie Falk
22 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 23
Crowsnest Hwy
1
Ferry
Ski Resort Border Crossing Main Rail Line
Heli-skiing
UNESCO site
Airport
I-90 Interstate
Route 97
Spokane
Calgary
97C
Ashcroft
Lower Nicola
1
loop
s La
ke
LAC DU BOIS GRASSLANDS PARK
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 25
5A
Brookmere
Aspen Grove
Quilchena
Merritt
5A
97C
Adams Lake
SUN PEAKS RESORT
McLure
Barriere
Chu Chua (Simpcw)
R
Douglas Lake
BEAR CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK
FINTRY PROVINCIAL PARK
Westbank
sR
Adams Lake
MOMICH LAKES PARK
97A
KELOWNA
International Airport
N
GRAYSTOKES PARK
Icefield
HAMBER PARK
To Calgary
93
Jasper
16
Mabel Lake
Mt Robson
MONASHEE PROVINCIAL PARK
FOREST
Downhill & XC Skiing at Sun Peaks
Bike Park
BIKING
North Thompson Fall Fair & Pro Rodeo
Ferry
425 mi 423 mi 197 mi 76 mi 178 mi 365 mi 442 mi 297 mi
Upper Arrow Lake
Ferry
23
To Banff/Calgary 483 km (300 mi)
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
1
Wells Gray Park hut-to-hut Canoe & Camp
MOUNT REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK
Hike Alpine Blossoms
Heli-Skiing
Voyageur Canoe Tour
Alpine Snowmobiling
White-water Rafting
SNOW
Canoeing & Camping
Revelstoke
Mt. Robson Berg L. Heli-Tour
ALPINE
Fishing
WATER
Helmcken Falls
Ranch Stays Bear Viewing & Habitat WATER
Cranberry Marsh Birding
VALLEY WILDLIFE
ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCES LEGEND
Driving Distances from Clearwater to: Calgary, AB 685 km Edmonton, AB 682 km Jasper, AB 318 km Kamloops, BC 123 km 6 Kelowna, BC (via Hwy 3 & 33) 287 km Seattle, WA 589 km Spokane, WA 712 km Vancouver, BC 478 km
Spallumcheen
Wood Lake
1
ANSTEY HUNKAKWA PARK
Sicamous
Armstrong
Lake Country
Icefield
Hugh Allan Ck
Kinbasket Lake Icefield
JASPER NATIONAL PARK
MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK
Seymour Arm
Enderby
Kalamalka Lake
Vernon
Swan Lake
k eC nn ye a C
UPPER SEYMOUR RIVER PARK
Icefield
Valemount
Icefield
Shuswap Lake
97B
Squilax Sorrento
Salmon Arm
Coquihalla Connector West Kelowna
R
t
m Ada
r No
R UPPER ADAMS RIVER PARK
on ps m ho T h
Avola
Blue River
Murtle Lake
Chase
Falkland
Monte Creek
Salmon R
co la
Ni
Lac Le Jeune
Pennask Lake
son
mp
Th o
RODERICK HAIG-BROWN PARK
Vavenby
DUNN PEAK PROTECTED AREA
Little Fort
Birch Island
Murtle River
WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK
Clearwater Lake
Clearwater River
Douglas Lake
rth
No
NORTH THOMPSON Azure Lake VALLEY
Clearwater
pson R
KAMLOOPS
Heffley Creek
BONAPARTE PROVINCIAL PARK
24
Nicola Lake
Logan Lake
97C
Savona
Kam
Heritage Site
UNESCO
US Port of Entry (24 Hours)
NORTH THOMPSON PROVINCIAL PARK
Heritage Ski Hill Site
UNESCO Border
Ski Hill Mahood Lake
Helmcken Falls
Valley Region US Port Port of of Entry Entry (Limited (24 Hours) US Hours)
Border
Yellowhead Hwy 16
US Port of Entry (Limited NorthHours) Thompson
Cache Creek
97
Trans-Canada Hwy
1
Yellowhead Hwy
Seattle Washington
Visitor Info Centre
LEGEND
Vancouver
Jasper
Edmonton
bs Ho
North Thompson Valley
Alberta
Th th So u
R son om p
British Columbia
o n La ke N Thom
To Prince George 276 km (170 mi)
ke
© 2017 North Thompson Valley Tourism • Map design: Roger Handling
n La
➔
24 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Oka nag a
Seymour R
Crowsnest Hwy
1
Ferry
Ski Resort Border Crossing Main Rail Line
Heli-skiing
UNESCO site
Airport
I-90 Interstate
Route 97
Spokane
Calgary
97C
Ashcroft
Lower Nicola
1
loop
s La
ke
LAC DU BOIS GRASSLANDS PARK
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 25
5A
Brookmere
Aspen Grove
Quilchena
Merritt
5A
97C
Adams Lake
SUN PEAKS RESORT
McLure
Barriere
Chu Chua (Simpcw)
R
Douglas Lake
BEAR CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK
FINTRY PROVINCIAL PARK
Westbank
sR
Adams Lake
MOMICH LAKES PARK
97A
KELOWNA
International Airport
N
GRAYSTOKES PARK
Icefield
HAMBER PARK
To Calgary
93
Jasper
16
Mabel Lake
Mt Robson
MONASHEE PROVINCIAL PARK
FOREST
Downhill & XC Skiing at Sun Peaks
Bike Park
BIKING
North Thompson Fall Fair & Pro Rodeo
Ferry
425 mi 423 mi 197 mi 76 mi 178 mi 365 mi 442 mi 297 mi
Upper Arrow Lake
Ferry
23
To Banff/Calgary 483 km (300 mi)
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
1
Wells Gray Park hut-to-hut Canoe & Camp
MOUNT REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK
Hike Alpine Blossoms
Heli-Skiing
Voyageur Canoe Tour
Alpine Snowmobiling
White-water Rafting
SNOW
Canoeing & Camping
Revelstoke
Mt. Robson Berg L. Heli-Tour
ALPINE
Fishing
WATER
Helmcken Falls
Ranch Stays Bear Viewing & Habitat WATER
Cranberry Marsh Birding
VALLEY WILDLIFE
ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCES LEGEND
Driving Distances from Clearwater to: Calgary, AB 685 km Edmonton, AB 682 km Jasper, AB 318 km Kamloops, BC 123 km 6 Kelowna, BC (via Hwy 3 & 33) 287 km Seattle, WA 589 km Spokane, WA 712 km Vancouver, BC 478 km
Spallumcheen
Wood Lake
1
ANSTEY HUNKAKWA PARK
Sicamous
Armstrong
Lake Country
Icefield
Hugh Allan Ck
Kinbasket Lake Icefield
JASPER NATIONAL PARK
MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK
Seymour Arm
Enderby
Kalamalka Lake
Vernon
Swan Lake
k eC nn ye a C
UPPER SEYMOUR RIVER PARK
Icefield
Valemount
Icefield
Shuswap Lake
97B
Squilax Sorrento
Salmon Arm
Coquihalla Connector West Kelowna
R
t
m Ada
r No
R UPPER ADAMS RIVER PARK
on ps m ho T h
Avola
Blue River
Murtle Lake
Chase
Falkland
Monte Creek
Salmon R
co la
Ni
Lac Le Jeune
Pennask Lake
son
mp
Th o
RODERICK HAIG-BROWN PARK
Vavenby
DUNN PEAK PROTECTED AREA
Little Fort
Birch Island
Murtle River
WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK
Clearwater Lake
Clearwater River
Douglas Lake
rth
No
NORTH THOMPSON Azure Lake VALLEY
Clearwater
pson R
KAMLOOPS
Heffley Creek
BONAPARTE PROVINCIAL PARK
24
Nicola Lake
Logan Lake
97C
Savona
Kam
Heritage Site
UNESCO
US Port of Entry (24 Hours)
NORTH THOMPSON PROVINCIAL PARK
Heritage Ski Hill Site
UNESCO Border
Ski Hill Mahood Lake
Helmcken Falls
Valley Region US Port Port of of Entry Entry (Limited (24 Hours) US Hours)
Border
Yellowhead Hwy 16
US Port of Entry (Limited NorthHours) Thompson
Cache Creek
97
Trans-Canada Hwy
1
Yellowhead Hwy
Seattle Washington
Visitor Info Centre
LEGEND
Vancouver
Jasper
Edmonton
bs Ho
North Thompson Valley
Alberta
Th th So u
R son om p
British Columbia
o n La ke N Thom
To Prince George 276 km (170 mi)
ke
© 2017 North Thompson Valley Tourism • Map design: Roger Handling
n La
➔
24 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Oka nag a
Seymour R
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER/ WELLS GRAY
Endless Forests, Great Mountains, and Mighty Rivers
In the Spring, bears come out of hibernation, giving great opportunities for bear viewing. The rivers reach their crescendo with spring run-off and begin to slow in early summer for excellent white-
CLEARWATER
water kayaking and rafting. It’s also the best time to view Helmcken and the other 41 plus waterfalls at their full and breath-taking force. Spring, summer and fall are the best time to explore the 200 kms (125 mi) of hiking trails. Amble over 200,000-year-old lava beds past ancient volcanoes. Listen to
A large bear seen grazing in grass field bulking up for winter
Waterfalls, Wildlife, Wilderness
Photo connie Falk
Find yourself in ‘the Canada you Imagined’ among the 1.3 million acres of wilderness playground in Canada’s Waterfall Park. Clearwater/Wells Gray is a land of ancient forests, pristine glacial lakes, epic white-water rafting, and over 41 waterfalls (including Canada’s fourth highest). Some call this the land of fire and ice. Long ago volcanoes erupted beneath the glaciers, leaving the breathtaking landscapes you see today. Today, bears, wolves, moose, deer, beaver and over 250 bird species call this land home. As one of BC’s largest Provincial Parks, Wells Gray Park lies in the heart of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. Once you’ve had your fill of adventure, feed your cravings at Clearwater’s local restaurants, cafés and farmers’ markets. Roughly halfway between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, Clearwater/Wells Gray is the perfect mid-way stop. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time and extra days to explore this area.
CLEARWATER / WELLS GRAY ICONIC EXPERIENCES Visit Helmcken Falls, Canada’s fourth highest waterfall Go white-water rafting on the Clearwater River Visit the largest sub-alpine flower meadow in Canada in Wells Gray Park (Trophy Mountain) Explore Clearwater/Wells Gray by horseback
Hike along the rivers in Clearwater and Wells Gray Provinical Park Photo TOTA
26 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
The Wells Gray Park Visitor Centre is located on Highway 5, Clearwater Valley Road, and is open May through October. We’d be happy to give you a detailed park map and some friendly suggestions for your Clearwater/Wells Gray experience. For more information, visit us online at wellsgray.ca NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 27
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER/ WELLS GRAY
Endless Forests, Great Mountains, and Mighty Rivers
In the Spring, bears come out of hibernation, giving great opportunities for bear viewing. The rivers reach their crescendo with spring run-off and begin to slow in early summer for excellent white-
CLEARWATER
water kayaking and rafting. It’s also the best time to view Helmcken and the other 41 plus waterfalls at their full and breath-taking force. Spring, summer and fall are the best time to explore the 200 kms (125 mi) of hiking trails. Amble over 200,000-year-old lava beds past ancient volcanoes. Listen to
A large bear seen grazing in grass field bulking up for winter
Waterfalls, Wildlife, Wilderness
Photo connie Falk
Find yourself in ‘the Canada you Imagined’ among the 1.3 million acres of wilderness playground in Canada’s Waterfall Park. Clearwater/Wells Gray is a land of ancient forests, pristine glacial lakes, epic white-water rafting, and over 41 waterfalls (including Canada’s fourth highest). Some call this the land of fire and ice. Long ago volcanoes erupted beneath the glaciers, leaving the breathtaking landscapes you see today. Today, bears, wolves, moose, deer, beaver and over 250 bird species call this land home. As one of BC’s largest Provincial Parks, Wells Gray Park lies in the heart of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. Once you’ve had your fill of adventure, feed your cravings at Clearwater’s local restaurants, cafés and farmers’ markets. Roughly halfway between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, Clearwater/Wells Gray is the perfect mid-way stop. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time and extra days to explore this area.
CLEARWATER / WELLS GRAY ICONIC EXPERIENCES Visit Helmcken Falls, Canada’s fourth highest waterfall Go white-water rafting on the Clearwater River Visit the largest sub-alpine flower meadow in Canada in Wells Gray Park (Trophy Mountain) Explore Clearwater/Wells Gray by horseback
Hike along the rivers in Clearwater and Wells Gray Provinical Park Photo TOTA
26 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
The Wells Gray Park Visitor Centre is located on Highway 5, Clearwater Valley Road, and is open May through October. We’d be happy to give you a detailed park map and some friendly suggestions for your Clearwater/Wells Gray experience. For more information, visit us online at wellsgray.ca NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 27
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER
the wild as you walk along the river. For a remarkably beautiful experience, try hut-to-hut hiking in Canada’s largest alpine flower meadow on Trophy Mountain. Paddle the pristine glacial waters of Clearwater/Azure Lakes dotted with beaches and campgrounds. Or take the water taxi to Rainbow Falls, a backcountry and fishing paradise – and a guaranteed way to get far from all the crowds. In the late summer, watch the salmon return to our great rivers at the Raft River viewing platform or at Bailey’s Chute on the Clearwater River in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Horseback riding and mountain biking are always excellent ways to explore, and in the fall, they offer a perfect view of the stunning fall colours in our endless forests. Choose from a short ride to multi-day and fully outfitted horseback riding excursions. Pack your bike to explore the full network of mountain bike trails in town as well as guided mountain biking excursions. You can also experience Clearwater/Wells Gray from the air on a fixed wing flight tour or even on a tandem paragliding experience to see the valleys as the birds do.
28 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 29
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER
the wild as you walk along the river. For a remarkably beautiful experience, try hut-to-hut hiking in Canada’s largest alpine flower meadow on Trophy Mountain. Paddle the pristine glacial waters of Clearwater/Azure Lakes dotted with beaches and campgrounds. Or take the water taxi to Rainbow Falls, a backcountry and fishing paradise – and a guaranteed way to get far from all the crowds. In the late summer, watch the salmon return to our great rivers at the Raft River viewing platform or at Bailey’s Chute on the Clearwater River in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Horseback riding and mountain biking are always excellent ways to explore, and in the fall, they offer a perfect view of the stunning fall colours in our endless forests. Choose from a short ride to multi-day and fully outfitted horseback riding excursions. Pack your bike to explore the full network of mountain bike trails in town as well as guided mountain biking excursions. You can also experience Clearwater/Wells Gray from the air on a fixed wing flight tour or even on a tandem paragliding experience to see the valleys as the birds do.
28 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 29
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER
Photo IWE
White-water rafting on the Clearwater River
Frozen Waterfalls and Snowy Trails
Autumn colours give way to breathtakingly winter scenes in Clearwater/Wells Gray. Many of the rushing waterfalls freeze into picturesque ice sculptures the likes of which you’ve never seen.
30 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 31
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER
Photo IWE
White-water rafting on the Clearwater River
Frozen Waterfalls and Snowy Trails
Autumn colours give way to breathtakingly winter scenes in Clearwater/Wells Gray. Many of the rushing waterfalls freeze into picturesque ice sculptures the likes of which you’ve never seen.
30 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 31
CLEARWATER
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
For postcard worthy photos, visit Helmcken Falls, Canada’s fourth tallest waterfall, where Old Man Winter creates a majestic ice cone beneath the rushing water. The mountains and meadows of Trophy, Battle and Fight Mountains offer a huge variety of spectacular terrain for hut-to-hut skiing and snowshoeing. This area is covered in the most reliable powder snow in the province – Cariboo Mountain Powder! One of the most affordable backcountry ski experiences, you can choose access by Snowcat or helicopter. The Snow Taxi to Clearwater Lake offers access to the upper end of the Wells Gray Park upper corridor. In the winter, it’s the only way to experience Clearwater Lake, where you can snowshoe through ancient cedar forests, winter canoe and enjoy the comfort of a warm cabin and campfires under the stars. Let your cross-country skis glide over the 100 km (62 mi) of groomed ski trails at the Candle Creek Ski Trails. Or join us in February for the Birchleg – a Viking themed Nordic fun cross-country ski race. There may be fewer people here in the winter, but moose, pine martens, foxes and deer are quite abundant.
32 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER
Accommodation
After a full day in the great outdoors, rest your head at one of our friendly accommodations. B&Bs, hotels, resorts, cabins, and ranches all have places for you to rest and rejuvenate. With over 700 RV and campsites in the area, pick your favourite and spend the night. There are several local and provincial campgrounds too, including several in Wells Gray Provincial Park, and at North Thompson Provincial Park, at the confluence of the North Thompson and Clearwater Rivers.
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 33
CLEARWATER
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
For postcard worthy photos, visit Helmcken Falls, Canada’s fourth tallest waterfall, where Old Man Winter creates a majestic ice cone beneath the rushing water. The mountains and meadows of Trophy, Battle and Fight Mountains offer a huge variety of spectacular terrain for hut-to-hut skiing and snowshoeing. This area is covered in the most reliable powder snow in the province – Cariboo Mountain Powder! One of the most affordable backcountry ski experiences, you can choose access by Snowcat or helicopter. The Snow Taxi to Clearwater Lake offers access to the upper end of the Wells Gray Park upper corridor. In the winter, it’s the only way to experience Clearwater Lake, where you can snowshoe through ancient cedar forests, winter canoe and enjoy the comfort of a warm cabin and campfires under the stars. Let your cross-country skis glide over the 100 km (62 mi) of groomed ski trails at the Candle Creek Ski Trails. Or join us in February for the Birchleg – a Viking themed Nordic fun cross-country ski race. There may be fewer people here in the winter, but moose, pine martens, foxes and deer are quite abundant.
32 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
CLEARWATER
Accommodation
After a full day in the great outdoors, rest your head at one of our friendly accommodations. B&Bs, hotels, resorts, cabins, and ranches all have places for you to rest and rejuvenate. With over 700 RV and campsites in the area, pick your favourite and spend the night. There are several local and provincial campgrounds too, including several in Wells Gray Provincial Park, and at North Thompson Provincial Park, at the confluence of the North Thompson and Clearwater Rivers.
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 33
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
34 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
CLEARWATER
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 35
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
34 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
CLEARWATER
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 35
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Winter Wonderland
Blue River is known the world over for its abundant dry powder snow. It’s fantastic for outdoor adventure, including much sought after heli-skiing. Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing is renowned for unlimited vertical, pristine powder and exceptional terrain. There are plenty of other ways to
BLUE RIVER
BLUE RIVER
explore the fresh powder snow here. Go hut-to-hut skiing with Snowy Mountain Alpine Tours or explore our groomed cross-country ski trails. Snowmobile enthusiasts will love the 60 km (37 mi) of groomed and ungroomed backcountry trails for snowmobiling. This winter wonderland makes playing in the snow even more fun!
Jewel of the Yellowhead
Photo Tourism Wells Gray
Blue River has long been known as the Jewel of the Yellowhead. Valley bottoms merge with forested mountains that lead up to the rugged slopes of the Cariboo mountain range. Join the many hikers on our trails and experience blissful silence while trekking through the forest. Our serene glacier fed lakes and soaring mountain peaks are home to caribou, moose, deer, lynx, bears, wolves, coyotes, eagles and several other species of birds. And it’s all just a step away. You’ll find Blue River at the junction of the North Thompson and Blue Rivers. Eateries here come with a great view.
Canoe Murtle Lake
BLUE RIVER ICONIC EXPERIENCES Explore the wilds on snowmobile Experience heli-skiing in the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains Ski pristine powder in the Monashe and Cariboo Mountains Photo Adam Stein
36 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Paddle Murtle Lake, North America’s largest non-motorized lake For more great things to do and places to stay visit us online at blueriverbc.ca NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 37
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Winter Wonderland
Blue River is known the world over for its abundant dry powder snow. It’s fantastic for outdoor adventure, including much sought after heli-skiing. Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing is renowned for unlimited vertical, pristine powder and exceptional terrain. There are plenty of other ways to
BLUE RIVER
BLUE RIVER
explore the fresh powder snow here. Go hut-to-hut skiing with Snowy Mountain Alpine Tours or explore our groomed cross-country ski trails. Snowmobile enthusiasts will love the 60 km (37 mi) of groomed and ungroomed backcountry trails for snowmobiling. This winter wonderland makes playing in the snow even more fun!
Jewel of the Yellowhead
Photo Tourism Wells Gray
Blue River has long been known as the Jewel of the Yellowhead. Valley bottoms merge with forested mountains that lead up to the rugged slopes of the Cariboo mountain range. Join the many hikers on our trails and experience blissful silence while trekking through the forest. Our serene glacier fed lakes and soaring mountain peaks are home to caribou, moose, deer, lynx, bears, wolves, coyotes, eagles and several other species of birds. And it’s all just a step away. You’ll find Blue River at the junction of the North Thompson and Blue Rivers. Eateries here come with a great view.
Canoe Murtle Lake
BLUE RIVER ICONIC EXPERIENCES Explore the wilds on snowmobile Experience heli-skiing in the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains Ski pristine powder in the Monashe and Cariboo Mountains Photo Adam Stein
36 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Paddle Murtle Lake, North America’s largest non-motorized lake For more great things to do and places to stay visit us online at blueriverbc.ca NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 37
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Hiking in the North Thompson
Photo Boosted Imagery
Snowmobile in the mountains
BLUE RIVER
Lakes and Rivers
Imagine waking up to the sound of water lapping outside your tent. Murtle Lake, located in Wells Gray Provincial Park, is North America’s largest, nonmotorized lake. You can rent canoes, carts and fishing gear at the Blue River Campground. Cast your line and catch a rainbow trout weighing up to 3 kg (7 lb). Camping is located on the sandy beaches in approved locations, where you can share a campfire and make new friends. In the warmer months, cool off with a refreshing swim before bed, then spend the night counting stars. Rainbow trout and salmon are usually the catch of the day from our many lakes and rivers. The beautifully jade coloured Mud Lake is right in the heart of bear country, while Eleanor Lake is the perfect place for a relaxing picnic and a swim.
Accommodation
Get comfortable at motels, inns, and B&Bs in the Blue River area. There are several places to park an RV or pitch a tent. You can even rent a tipi at the Blue River Campground. There’s also the luxurious Mike Wiegele Heli Ski resort, open year-round, where you can choose from chalets or a private Bavarian House or Cabana. 38 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 39
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Hiking in the North Thompson
Photo Boosted Imagery
Snowmobile in the mountains
BLUE RIVER
Lakes and Rivers
Imagine waking up to the sound of water lapping outside your tent. Murtle Lake, located in Wells Gray Provincial Park, is North America’s largest, nonmotorized lake. You can rent canoes, carts and fishing gear at the Blue River Campground. Cast your line and catch a rainbow trout weighing up to 3 kg (7 lb). Camping is located on the sandy beaches in approved locations, where you can share a campfire and make new friends. In the warmer months, cool off with a refreshing swim before bed, then spend the night counting stars. Rainbow trout and salmon are usually the catch of the day from our many lakes and rivers. The beautifully jade coloured Mud Lake is right in the heart of bear country, while Eleanor Lake is the perfect place for a relaxing picnic and a swim.
Accommodation
Get comfortable at motels, inns, and B&Bs in the Blue River area. There are several places to park an RV or pitch a tent. You can even rent a tipi at the Blue River Campground. There’s also the luxurious Mike Wiegele Heli Ski resort, open year-round, where you can choose from chalets or a private Bavarian House or Cabana. 38 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 39
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
VALEMOUNT
Snowmobiling at Allan Creek
VALEMOUNT A hiker views the beautiful scenery Valemount has to offer Photo Dan Roberts Photography
Wake in the morning to a backdrop of blue skies and breathtaking snow-capped mountains. The Village of Valemount is where explorers like you gather together before heading out on tour adventures. Take your time and marvel at the Cariboo, Monashee and Rocky Mountain ranges. Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies, is part of your adventure here. Hike the Berg Lake Trail where you’ll cross three biogeoclimatic zones, and gain just under 800 metres in elevation over 23 km (14 mi).
Photo Throttle Ops Photography
Let the Mountains Move You
Snow Fun
Join us at the doorstep of the Canadian Rocky Mountains for views that will take your breath away. Our pristine powder was made for strapping on your fat skies or snowboard and carving your way through waves of champagne powder. Why not try CAT skiing with Cariboo Snowcat. Our backcountry is a haven for cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. You’ll find dozens of snowmobile trails here, with varying levels of difficulty from family adventurer to hard core sledder.
For something unique, try powerboarding at Crystal Ridge. It’s the only place in the world that has a sled-assisted ski hill. Head down on long, steep tree runs and wide bowls filled with powder and classic glades. Let your team of Alaskan Huskies lead you through a snowy winter wonderland past frozen waterfalls, snow laden timbers and breathtaking panoramic views with Coldfire Creek Dogsledding. For more laid back outdoor fun, lace up your skates and breathe in the fresh air as you experience ice skating on Cranberry Marsh (weather dependent). Grab
VALEMOUNT ICONIC EXPERIENCES Mountain Biking at the Valemount Bike Park Wildlife viewing at the Cranberry Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary Hike or helicopter up Mount Robson For more things to do and places to stay, drop by the Valemount Visitor Information Centre on Cranberry Lake Road or visit us online at visitvalemount.ca
40 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 41
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
VALEMOUNT
Snowmobiling at Allan Creek
VALEMOUNT A hiker views the beautiful scenery Valemount has to offer Photo Dan Roberts Photography
Wake in the morning to a backdrop of blue skies and breathtaking snow-capped mountains. The Village of Valemount is where explorers like you gather together before heading out on tour adventures. Take your time and marvel at the Cariboo, Monashee and Rocky Mountain ranges. Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies, is part of your adventure here. Hike the Berg Lake Trail where you’ll cross three biogeoclimatic zones, and gain just under 800 metres in elevation over 23 km (14 mi).
Photo Throttle Ops Photography
Let the Mountains Move You
Snow Fun
Join us at the doorstep of the Canadian Rocky Mountains for views that will take your breath away. Our pristine powder was made for strapping on your fat skies or snowboard and carving your way through waves of champagne powder. Why not try CAT skiing with Cariboo Snowcat. Our backcountry is a haven for cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. You’ll find dozens of snowmobile trails here, with varying levels of difficulty from family adventurer to hard core sledder.
For something unique, try powerboarding at Crystal Ridge. It’s the only place in the world that has a sled-assisted ski hill. Head down on long, steep tree runs and wide bowls filled with powder and classic glades. Let your team of Alaskan Huskies lead you through a snowy winter wonderland past frozen waterfalls, snow laden timbers and breathtaking panoramic views with Coldfire Creek Dogsledding. For more laid back outdoor fun, lace up your skates and breathe in the fresh air as you experience ice skating on Cranberry Marsh (weather dependent). Grab
VALEMOUNT ICONIC EXPERIENCES Mountain Biking at the Valemount Bike Park Wildlife viewing at the Cranberry Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary Hike or helicopter up Mount Robson For more things to do and places to stay, drop by the Valemount Visitor Information Centre on Cranberry Lake Road or visit us online at visitvalemount.ca
40 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 41
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
VALEMOUNT
your friends and start a game of pick up hockey.
Get your turns in at the Valemount Bike Park
Sensational is the word used to describe summer in Valemount. Kick off summer in June 2021 at the vALEmount Craft Beer Experience, a block party-style beer fest with food and music. Explore the trails and boardwalk at Cranberry Marsh. Hawks, eagles, geese, ducks, woodpeckers, owls, swifts, and warblers all make their home here. Look closely and you may spot muskrats, mule deer, moose and even bears. The Fraser River starts in Mount Robson Provincial Park and it’s where you’ll also find a large inland salmon migration. Hike or heli-hike Mount Robson and experience the sights and sounds of the Valley of a Thousand Falls, Emperor Falls, Berg Lake and Kinney Lake.
Mountain biking at Valemount Bike Park 42 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Photo Boosted Imagery
Photo Boosted Imagery
Sensational Summer
Explore the Berg Lake Trail NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 43
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
VALEMOUNT
your friends and start a game of pick up hockey.
Get your turns in at the Valemount Bike Park
Sensational is the word used to describe summer in Valemount. Kick off summer in June 2021 at the vALEmount Craft Beer Experience, a block party-style beer fest with food and music. Explore the trails and boardwalk at Cranberry Marsh. Hawks, eagles, geese, ducks, woodpeckers, owls, swifts, and warblers all make their home here. Look closely and you may spot muskrats, mule deer, moose and even bears. The Fraser River starts in Mount Robson Provincial Park and it’s where you’ll also find a large inland salmon migration. Hike or heli-hike Mount Robson and experience the sights and sounds of the Valley of a Thousand Falls, Emperor Falls, Berg Lake and Kinney Lake.
Mountain biking at Valemount Bike Park 42 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
Photo Boosted Imagery
Photo Boosted Imagery
Sensational Summer
Explore the Berg Lake Trail NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 43
VALEMOUNT
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
EVENTS
Steps from Valemount a boaters paradise is found at Kinbasket Lake
Up for a challenge? Then take your mountain bike up to the Valemount Bike Park! There are 25 trails of varying degrees for all ages and abilities. There are also hundreds of miles of service roads for exploring by ATV. For the adventurous, head up Canoe Mountain for stunning 360-degree views. It’s the highest place in North America you can go with a motorized vehicle. For those who prefer a slower ride, sign up for a guided horseback tour of our valley. White-water rafting, fishing, boating and swimming are great ways to spend your day on our waters. Take in one of our signature events. We have the annual vALEmount Craft Beer Experience, the Canoe Mountain Rodeo, Mud
Races, or the Robson Valley Music Festival. Close out the summer at the Mount Robson Marathon with a 50 km (31 mi) ultra-marathon, a 25 km (15.5 mi) half-marathon or a 12 km (7.5 mi) or 5 km (3 mi) event.
Accommodation
Sleep steps away from nature at area hotels, motels, inns, B&Bs, vacation rentals, cabins and cottages. Camping is popular here from May to October, so reservations are recommended. There are over 700 campsites in the area with front and backcountry camping and seven full-serviced RV Parks. There are also three provincial campgrounds in Mount Robson Provincial Park.
Experience the North Thompson during any season
For more events, dates and times, please visit our site at norththompson.ca
JANUARY > >
Ice Man Fishing Derby (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Clearwater Winter Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
FEBRUARY 2
Birch Leg Cross-Country Ski Race (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
MARCH
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
@NorthThompsonBC | #NorthThompson
NorthThompson.ca
25-26 26 31 > >
High School Rodeo (Valemount) Welcome to Summer, Community BBQ (Blue River) North Thompson Fish and Game Fishing Derby (Barriere) Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere)
JUNE
13 Spring Fling, End of Winter Dance (Blue River) 24-26 Honouring Young Women PowWow (Chu Chua) 25-26 North Thompson Agriplex – BC Team Cattle Penning Competitions (Barriere) > Meet the new Lambs at Averly Ranch (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
12-14 Valemountain Days (Valemount) 21 North Thompson Fish & Game Club’s Father’s Day Fishing Derby (Barriere) 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations (Clearwater/Wells Gray) 26-28 Old Time Fiddlers Jamboree Fall Fair Hall (Barriere) > Bike Fest (Valemount) > Summer Solstice Disc Golf Tournament (Clearwater) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) > Friday Night Bandshell Music in the Park (Barriere) > Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere) > vALEmount Craft Beer Experience 2021 (Valemount)
3 16-18 16-18 23 17
1 5 13-14 17-19 20
28 North Thompson Fish & Game Club’s Wild Game Banquet (Barriere) 28-29 North Thompson Agriplex – BC Team Cattle Penning Competitions (Barriere) > LA Community Spaghetti Dinner (Blue River) > First Annual SledFest (Valemount)
APRIL
Wilderness... just a step away
44 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Dan Roberts Photography
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
EVENTS
MAY
Investors Group Walk for Alzheimers, Barriere Seniors Hall (Barriere) Junior High School Rodeo, NT Fall Fairgrounds (Barriere) Serenity May Long weekend Concert Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) North Thompson Fish & Game Club’s Poker Run (Barriere) May Day Parade (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
JULY
Canada Day Celebrations throughout the North Thompson Barriere Show and Shine Fadear Park (Barriere Canoe Mountain Rodeo (Valemount) Clearwater Kayak Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Continued on next page Canada Parks Day (Mount Robson) NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 45
VALEMOUNT
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY
EVENTS
Steps from Valemount a boaters paradise is found at Kinbasket Lake
Up for a challenge? Then take your mountain bike up to the Valemount Bike Park! There are 25 trails of varying degrees for all ages and abilities. There are also hundreds of miles of service roads for exploring by ATV. For the adventurous, head up Canoe Mountain for stunning 360-degree views. It’s the highest place in North America you can go with a motorized vehicle. For those who prefer a slower ride, sign up for a guided horseback tour of our valley. White-water rafting, fishing, boating and swimming are great ways to spend your day on our waters. Take in one of our signature events. We have the annual vALEmount Craft Beer Experience, the Canoe Mountain Rodeo, Mud
Races, or the Robson Valley Music Festival. Close out the summer at the Mount Robson Marathon with a 50 km (31 mi) ultra-marathon, a 25 km (15.5 mi) half-marathon or a 12 km (7.5 mi) or 5 km (3 mi) event.
Accommodation
Sleep steps away from nature at area hotels, motels, inns, B&Bs, vacation rentals, cabins and cottages. Camping is popular here from May to October, so reservations are recommended. There are over 700 campsites in the area with front and backcountry camping and seven full-serviced RV Parks. There are also three provincial campgrounds in Mount Robson Provincial Park.
Experience the North Thompson during any season
For more events, dates and times, please visit our site at norththompson.ca
JANUARY > >
Ice Man Fishing Derby (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Clearwater Winter Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
FEBRUARY 2
Birch Leg Cross-Country Ski Race (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
MARCH
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
@NorthThompsonBC | #NorthThompson
NorthThompson.ca
25-26 26 31 > >
High School Rodeo (Valemount) Welcome to Summer, Community BBQ (Blue River) North Thompson Fish and Game Fishing Derby (Barriere) Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere)
JUNE
13 Spring Fling, End of Winter Dance (Blue River) 24-26 Honouring Young Women PowWow (Chu Chua) 25-26 North Thompson Agriplex – BC Team Cattle Penning Competitions (Barriere) > Meet the new Lambs at Averly Ranch (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
12-14 Valemountain Days (Valemount) 21 North Thompson Fish & Game Club’s Father’s Day Fishing Derby (Barriere) 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations (Clearwater/Wells Gray) 26-28 Old Time Fiddlers Jamboree Fall Fair Hall (Barriere) > Bike Fest (Valemount) > Summer Solstice Disc Golf Tournament (Clearwater) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) > Friday Night Bandshell Music in the Park (Barriere) > Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere) > vALEmount Craft Beer Experience 2021 (Valemount)
3 16-18 16-18 23 17
1 5 13-14 17-19 20
28 North Thompson Fish & Game Club’s Wild Game Banquet (Barriere) 28-29 North Thompson Agriplex – BC Team Cattle Penning Competitions (Barriere) > LA Community Spaghetti Dinner (Blue River) > First Annual SledFest (Valemount)
APRIL
Wilderness... just a step away
44 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Photo Dan Roberts Photography
Photo Kelly Funk Photography
EVENTS
MAY
Investors Group Walk for Alzheimers, Barriere Seniors Hall (Barriere) Junior High School Rodeo, NT Fall Fairgrounds (Barriere) Serenity May Long weekend Concert Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) North Thompson Fish & Game Club’s Poker Run (Barriere) May Day Parade (Clearwater/Wells Gray)
JULY
Canada Day Celebrations throughout the North Thompson Barriere Show and Shine Fadear Park (Barriere Canoe Mountain Rodeo (Valemount) Clearwater Kayak Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Continued on next page Canada Parks Day (Mount Robson) NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 45
EVENTS 31-2 > > > > > >
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY North Thompson Fall Fair & Rodeoo, Barriere
Kamloopa PowWow (Lower North Thompson) Thursday Night Concert Series (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) Friday Night Bandshell Music in the Park (Barriere) Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere) Ice Cream Social (Dunster near Valemont)
31-2 1-2 3-5 5 14-16 29 29 31 > > > > > > > > >
Kamloopa PowWow (Lower North Thompson) North West Mud Racing (Valemount) Blue River Blues Slo-Pitch Tournament (Blue River) Clearwater Children’s Arts Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Robson Valley Music Festival (Valemount) Thunder Alley Stomp’n Toy Run (Barriere) Candle Creek Half Marathon (Clearwater) Valemount Marina Fishing Derby (Valemount) First Fish Ceremony (Simpcw First Nation – north of Clearwater) The Blueberry Tea (Valemount) TBA Star Gazing Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Night Concert Series (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) Friday Night Bandshell Music in the Park (Barriere) Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere) Thunder Alley Stomp’n Toy Run (Barriere)
Photo NTFFRA files - Kristina Bradley
AUGUST
5-7
71st Annual North Thompson Fall Fair & the BCRA Polaris Rodeo Finals (Barriere) 12 Mount Robson Marathon Run (Mount Robson) 24-27 4-H BC Agricultural Expo and Sale, NT Fall Fairgrounds (Barriere) > Chu Chua Men’s Softball Tournament (Barriere) > Banff Film Fest World Tour (Clearwater/Wells Gray) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) > Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere)
SEPTEMBER 1 4 5-6
Valemount Marina Fishing Derby (Valemount) BCRA Great West Equipment Wildcard Qualifying Rodeo for the BCRA Finals starts at 1:30 p.m. NT Fall Fairgrounds (Barriere) Valemount Marina Fishing Derby (Valemount)
OCTOBER 19 31 > >
Canada Day Celebrations, Valemont
Annual Harvest Dinner, Community Hall (Blue River) Kid’s Halloween Party (Blue River) Coho Day at Dunn Creek Hatchery (north of Barriere) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere)
NOVEMBER 11
Remembrance Day (North Thompson Valley)
DECEMBER
Photo Dan Roberts Photography
8 14 > >
46 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Christmas Craft Fair (Blue River) Welcome to Winter Dance (Blue River) Christmas Light Up and Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Christmas Light Up and Shop Local Champaign (Barriere)
JANUARY 2021 > Ice Man Fishing Derby 15-24 Clearwater Winterfest
FEBRUARY 2021 6 16
Birch Leg Cross-Country Ski Race (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Cabin Fever mid-season Mash Up Dance, Blue River Comm. Hall NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 47
EVENTS 31-2 > > > > > >
WILDERNESS… JUST A STEP AWAY North Thompson Fall Fair & Rodeoo, Barriere
Kamloopa PowWow (Lower North Thompson) Thursday Night Concert Series (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) Friday Night Bandshell Music in the Park (Barriere) Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere) Ice Cream Social (Dunster near Valemont)
31-2 1-2 3-5 5 14-16 29 29 31 > > > > > > > > >
Kamloopa PowWow (Lower North Thompson) North West Mud Racing (Valemount) Blue River Blues Slo-Pitch Tournament (Blue River) Clearwater Children’s Arts Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Robson Valley Music Festival (Valemount) Thunder Alley Stomp’n Toy Run (Barriere) Candle Creek Half Marathon (Clearwater) Valemount Marina Fishing Derby (Valemount) First Fish Ceremony (Simpcw First Nation – north of Clearwater) The Blueberry Tea (Valemount) TBA Star Gazing Festival (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Night Concert Series (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) Friday Night Bandshell Music in the Park (Barriere) Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere) Thunder Alley Stomp’n Toy Run (Barriere)
Photo NTFFRA files - Kristina Bradley
AUGUST
5-7
71st Annual North Thompson Fall Fair & the BCRA Polaris Rodeo Finals (Barriere) 12 Mount Robson Marathon Run (Mount Robson) 24-27 4-H BC Agricultural Expo and Sale, NT Fall Fairgrounds (Barriere) > Chu Chua Men’s Softball Tournament (Barriere) > Banff Film Fest World Tour (Clearwater/Wells Gray) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Valemount) > Saturday Farmers’ Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) > Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere)
SEPTEMBER 1 4 5-6
Valemount Marina Fishing Derby (Valemount) BCRA Great West Equipment Wildcard Qualifying Rodeo for the BCRA Finals starts at 1:30 p.m. NT Fall Fairgrounds (Barriere) Valemount Marina Fishing Derby (Valemount)
OCTOBER 19 31 > >
Canada Day Celebrations, Valemont
Annual Harvest Dinner, Community Hall (Blue River) Kid’s Halloween Party (Blue River) Coho Day at Dunn Creek Hatchery (north of Barriere) Thursday Farmers’ Market (Barriere)
NOVEMBER 11
Remembrance Day (North Thompson Valley)
DECEMBER
Photo Dan Roberts Photography
8 14 > >
46 | North Thompson Valley | NorthThompson.ca
Christmas Craft Fair (Blue River) Welcome to Winter Dance (Blue River) Christmas Light Up and Market (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Christmas Light Up and Shop Local Champaign (Barriere)
JANUARY 2021 > Ice Man Fishing Derby 15-24 Clearwater Winterfest
FEBRUARY 2021 6 16
Birch Leg Cross-Country Ski Race (Clearwater/Wells Gray) Cabin Fever mid-season Mash Up Dance, Blue River Comm. Hall NorthThompson.ca | North Thompson Valley | 47
