Quesnel Visitor Centre
703 Carson Ave, Quesnel
Explore Quesnel’s charms, outdoor adventures, and Gold Rush history. Visit us for info and assistance.
Diverse landscapes and distinct flavours. One unforgettable trail.
The Cariboo Ale Trail stretches across one of British Columbia’s most storied and untamed regions — from the rugged central interior all the way to the sun-drenched south, passing through towering forests, rolling ranchlands, breathtaking mountain plateaus, and semi-desert valleys. This is big country, made for epic road trips. And throughout it all, the distinct character of each community finds its way into the glass — every pint on the Cariboo Ale Trail is a true taste of place.
Begin your journey in Quesnel, gateway to the historic Cariboo Gold Rush Trail, where the landscape is vast, the skies are wide open, and the connection to the natural world runs deep. Travel south to Williams Lake — the heart of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast — where cowboy culture is alive and well, and mountain bike trails, paddling routes, and backcountry lakes reward those who venture off the highway.
Continue on to 100 Mile House, nestled on the Fraser Plateau between the Coastal and Rocky Mountain ranges, where every season brings a new reason to get outside and explore. Complete your journey in Lillooet, where hot, dry summers, abundant sunshine, and a dramatic semi-desert landscape create a striking finale to a remarkable adventure.
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Barkerville Brewing in Quesnel, BC (photo provided)
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Williams Lake, BC
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Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Mountain biking in Williams Lake, BC (photo: Ben Haggar Photography)
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Lillooet Brewing in Lillooet, BC
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Historic Barkerville in Quesnel, BC
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Lillooet Brewing in Lillooet, BC
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Barkerville Brewing in Quesnel, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson
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100 Mile House Visitor Centre (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Bridge Creek Falls in 100 Mile House, BC (photo: South Cariboo Visitor Centre)
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Bull Mountain Cross Country Ski Area in Williams Lake, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House, BC (photo: Tamara Vidito)
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Fox Mountain Brewing Co. in Williams Lake, BC (photo: Ben Haggar Photography)
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Mount Timothy in Lac La Hache, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Parks Alive music festival in 100 Mile House, BC (photo: Allen Jones Photography)
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Quesnel, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Barkerville Brewing in Quesnel, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson
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South Cariboo Farmers Market in 100 Mile House, BC (photo: South Cariboo Visitor Centre)
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Tourism Discovery Centre in Williams Lake, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Lillooet, BC (photo: Lillooet Chamber of Commerce)
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Fox Mountain Brewing Co. in Williams Lake, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Lillooet, BC (photo: Lillooet Chamber of Commerce)
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Lillooet Brewing in Lillooet, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Seton Lake Recreation Site near Lillooet, BC (photo: Lillooet Chamber of Commerce)
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Mount Timothy in Lac La Hache, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Quesnel, BC (photo: Nick Nicholson)
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Fox Mountain Brewing Co. in Williams Lake, BC
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Mountain biking in Williams Lake, BC (photo: Ben Haggar Photography)
Quesnel is located in British Columbia’s central interior along Highway 97 and only 120 km away from Highway 16. The city is accessible by vehicle, air and rail:
- Highway 97 – connects Quesnel north and south to large cities, including Vancouver and Prince George
- Highway 26 – connects Quesnel east with Wells, Barkerville, and the Bowron Lakes
- Highway 16 – located one hour north of Quesnel, connecting us east to Jasper and north-west to the Coast
- Highway 56 – connects Quesnel east with the Nazko Valley
- Air – Central Mountain Air (CMA) and Pacific Coastal Airlines offer flights between Quesnel (YQZ) and Vancouver with connecting options around the province.
- Rail – Quesnel is served by many railways, including the opportunity for passenger travel on the Rocky Mountaineer
Ulysses Restaurant
122 Barlow Ave, Quesnel
Comfortable eatery where home-style Greek dishes like souvlaki, calamari, mousaka, greek ribs, lamb and more are served in an elegant setting.
Wonderland Trail Network
BC, Canada
Head up to Wonderland for a ride on their mountain biking trails. There’s a gorgeous view of Dragon Lake waiting for you on Angry Beaver.
Quesnel & District Museum and Archives
705 Carson Ave, Quesnel
Discover a rich collection of artifacts and stories showcasing the region’s history.
185 Davie St, Quesnel
Located at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel rivers along the historic Cariboo Gold Rush Trail, Barkerville Brewing draws inspiration from the nearby ghost town in both its rustic, relic-filled tasting room and its historically-themed beers, many of which incorporate local ingredients like birch syrup and chaga mushroom. The quality matches the charm — Barkerville took home two golds and a bronze at the 2016 B.C. Beer Awards, proving that northern beer is not to be ignored.
Listen to the Cascadian Beer Podcast episode featuring Barkerville Brewing.
Cariboo Escape
104-1271 Highway 97 N, Quesnel
Test your trivia and problem solving skills and try to escape one of the themed game rooms at Cariboo Escape. This is a group activity and advanced booking is required.
Pinnacles Provincial Park
BC, Canada
If there’s still enough daylight, a pleasant 1 km hike along a well-maintained trail to the viewpoint of the 12-million-year-old Hoodoos and other rock formations.
Billy Barker Hotel Casino
308 McLean Street, Quesnel
Enjoy the character and charm of this unique hotel, decorated in a historic style with friendly staff to boot.
Find a place to stay in Quesnel
Quesnel has a number of comfortable and affordable places to stay while you are visiting. There are great full-service hotels with food options and pools, as well as plenty of bed and breakfasts and affordable motels to fit anyone’s budget.
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Stay another day and visit Barkerville Historic Town & Park
If you have another day (and you’ll want a whole day), take the scenic 1-hour drive to Barkerville. With over 100 preserved historic buildings, this village is a representative of the Victorian gold rush era. Actors in period costumes bring the town’s history to life. Be sure to check in before arriving, as their programming is seasonal and changes throughout the year.
Shop local: Local business is at the heart of the community. Love Quesnel brings the businesses and people behind them to the front for you to connect with. The Quesnel Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday, from May to October. Still supported by the founding farmers, market mornings start with locals hurrying to collect fresh vegetables and meat for the week, and continue after lunch as families snack and dance to live music.
Visiting Quesnel in winter? You’ll find a variety of activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, snowmobiling and more! With endless parks and trails throughout the city and surrounding area, and four lakes within 20 km, you won’t have to go far from town for a daily dose of sunshine and exercise. Full details here.
Drive to Williams Lake – approximately 1.5 hours
Williams Lake Visitor Centre
1660 Broadway Ave S, Williams Lake
We’re here to make your Williams Lake experience unforgettable, offering friendly guidance, local insights, and all the resources you need to explore. Whether you’re starting your day, meeting a friend, or picking out the perfect gift, the Williams Lake Coffee Bar & Gift Shop is your go-to spot for warmth, connection, and a taste of the Cariboo.
Howdy Cafe
700 Midnight Dr, Williams Lake
Get your day started with a breakfast fuel stop at the Howdy Cafe. This friendly full-service cafe will fuel your adventures in the Cariboo.
Map the trails at the Williams Lake Visitor Centre
1660 Broadway Ave S, Williams Lake
Known for over 360 KM of Mountain Bike Trails, Williams Lake is quickly becoming a premier destination for all levels of Mountain Bike enthusiasts. The trails are open for everyone, so make a stop in at the iconic Williams Lake Visitor Centre to map out your day’s adventure and get an appreciation for the rich history of the lands which are the traditional territory of the T’exelcemc.
Smashin’ Smoothies
102-41 7 Ave, Williams Lake
Enjoy a great selection of healthy options! All smoothies, soups, salads, wraps and granola are created on-site daily from scratch using fresh ingredients.
Downtown Mural Walk
Williams Lake
With 20 murals and counting, Williams Lake’s “gallery in the streets” is a unique way to explore the city. Get the Mural Walk map at the Williams Lake Visitor Centre.
215 Donald Road, Williams Lake
In addition to a wide range of beers, Fox Mountain serves up delicious food, including burgers, nachos, sandwiches, wings, and smoked ribs. Drop in for a beer and a bite and stay for the sunset and friendly people. The patio is open and will treat you to beautiful views of Williams Lake. Fox Mountain doesn’t take reservations, so just drop by, and they’ll get you a table.
Fox Mountain Brewing in Williams Lake, BC
Find a place to stay in Williams Lake
Hotels, motels and B&Bs, there are plenty of options in Williams Lake.
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Download the Downtown Williams Lake App, which will also help you in choosing your place to dine, and highlight the great merchants of their bustling city centre.
Mornings are for bird-watching, and Scout Island Nature Centre delivers with an incredible variety of birds and wildlife to be seen, including the beaver dams found on the walking trails.
If camping is your travelling choice, book into the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds Campsite and spend the night next to the sounds of horses in the nearby stables.
An afternoon at Williams Lake’s expansive 18 Hole Golf Course will give you some of the best views of this city, which played a prominent part in establishing the historical Gold Rush Trail.
Drive to 100 Mile House – approximately 1 hour
Tin Cup Bistro
530 Horse Lake Rd, 100 Mile House
Experience a wide range of breakfast and lunch choices at Tin Cup Bistro. With house-roasted coffee, all-day breakfast, and gluten-free options available, it’s the perfect stop to fuel up for a day of adventure.
Centennial Park & Bridge Creek Waterfall
403 Cedar Ave, 100 Mie House, BC
Centennial Park is a welcoming outdoor space offering picnic tables, tennis and basketball courts, scenic trails, a playground, and a spray park for kids. The park is fully accessible, featuring a paved path throughout and accessible washrooms conveniently located near the playground. Throughout the year, the park comes alive with community events celebrating music, food, and fun for all ages. Follow a 500-meter trail leading to the beautiful Bridge Creek Waterfall.
NOTE: The gate to the parking area is closed Oct-April, but the park remains accessible by foot.
175 Cariboo Hwy, 100 Mile House
Cask & Cleaver Brewing stands at the crossroads of Viking spirit and South Cariboo craft — a warm, wood-and-steel haven in the heart of 100 Mile House. Since opening in 2022, we’ve forged a reputation for small-batch beers that lean boldly into creativity. From bright, playful sours like our Strawberry…
Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House, BC
108 Mile Heritage Site
4690 Telqua Dr, 108 Mile Ranch
The 108 Mile Ranch Heritage Site offers a journey back to the Cariboo Gold Rush era with its historic buildings, museum, and a charming gift shop. Visitors can explore the legendary Cariboo Waggon Road and enjoy lively markets, celebrations, and ghost tours. Private and self-guided tours are available, providing an immersive experience for all.
NOTE: open seasonally from May – September.
Red Rock Grill Ltd
725 Alder Ave, 100 Mile House
A locally owned and operated South Cariboo restaurant since 2009, they are deeply committed to the community through sponsorships, donations, and staff development, including Red Seal Certification opportunities. Led by a locally raised head chef, the kitchen focuses on quality, creative, chef-prepared cuisine that goes beyond the ordinary. Guests can also enjoy the largest selection of BC craft beer in town, an extensive cocktail menu, and famously fast and friendly service.
Find a place to stay in 100 Mile House
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In the heart of the South Cariboo, 100 Mile House is a welcoming stop where rugged adventure meets small-town charm. Surrounded by the rolling hills, forests, and sparkling lakes of the Cariboo, visitors can spend their days paddling quiet waters, casting a line at sunrise, hiking scenic forest trails, or exploring backcountry routes on horseback.
In town, the energy carries into a lively calendar of community events – celebrate summer at Hot July Nights, catch live music during Parks Alive throughout July and August, or fill your basket with fresh produce, handmade goods, and locally crafted treats at weekly community markets. Here, wide-open landscapes and warm community spirit come together for an unforgettable experience.
Drive to Lillooet – approximately 2 hours
De’Oro Coffee Lounge
651 Main St, Lillooet, BC
Rich espresso, flavorful coffee, and fresh local eats for breakfast and lunch. Go beyond the coffee and enjoy delicious smoothies, milkshakes, alongside homemade treats like samosas, cookies, and donuts.
Seton Lake Recreation Area
BC, Canada
The Seton Lake recreational area is part of BC Hydro’s Bridge River hydroelectric complex. It includes one campground and three day-use/picnic areas that offer a range of activities, including boating, canoeing, hiking and fishing, plus a viewpoint overlooking Seton Lake Reservoir.
Walk the Golden Miles of History Trail
BC, Canada
You can discover pieces of Lillooet’s history through panels and plaques on the Golden Mile of History self-guided tour. Step into Lillooet’s fascinating past with the virtual map or pick up a copy at the Lillooet Museum & Visitor Centre. Begin at the Bridge of the 23 Camels, continue along Main Street, and complete your walk at the Old Bridge of Lillooet.
Abundance Artisan Bakery
77 8 Ave S., Lillooet
Motivated by the belief that good bread has the potential to bring people together, it is the mission at Abundance to create products that can nourish both the individual and the collective whole. To do this authentically, they stuck to ingredients and flavours that are simple, local and fresh. From lunch specials to house-made donuts, it’s the perfect stop to refuel before an afternoon of exploring. Abundance also offers pizza nights on Fridays – serving up a variety of 14″ sourdough pizzas.
Community Connect HUB
633 Main St, Lillooet
The Lillooet Community Connect Innovation HUB seeks to facilitate collaboration and lifelong learning, and provides support to the non-profit sector, artists, farmers, small business operators, and ChangeMakers. Featuring workshops, monthly art shows, events, and of course a shop featuring the works of local artisans and makers.
Hike Red Rock Trail
BC, Canada
This popular route takes hikers to the famous Red Rock outcropping 500 metres above town, offering an astounding panorama of the Fraser River valley. Also known as the Lillooet Grind, this a 3.4km trail rated moderate to difficult with a 500m elevation gain.
104 Main St, Lillooet
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s rugged wilderness along the historic Gold Rush Trail, Lillooet Brewing crafts exceptional beers inspired by the region’s rich history, majestic mountains, and pristine rivers, with a commitment to wildlife conservation woven into their ethos. Stop by the bright, airy taproom or dog-friendly patio to sample their beers while taking in panoramic views that seem to go on forever.
(photo provided)
Reynolds Hotel, Restaurant and Pub
1237 Main St, Lillooet
Choose from the restaurant located just off the lobby, or the pub with its expansive patio views. Both serve quality home cooked meals and baking, with a pub menu available there after 7pm.
Find a place to stay in Lillooet
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Be sure to stop in at the Lillooet Visitor Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Looking to sample more local flavours? Explore BC’s newest wine region with a tasting at Fort Berens Estate Winery. This 38-acre vineyard has won multiple awards for its handcrafted wines reflecting the unique Lillooet terroir.
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