2020 North Thompson Valley Visitor Guide

Page 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


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