Williams Lake | Nikita Pretty Williams Lake | Nikita Pretty Cariboo & Gold Rush Trail
Hidden treasures and diverse histories shaped by the land
Following the path of the mighty Fraser River up to the Cariboo Plateau and Mountains, this dynamic countryside is home to rugged nature, diverse wildlife, and legendary stories.
These are the homelands of six First Nations: Kwantlen, Stó:lō, St’át’imc, Nlaka’pamux,the Carrier, and the Secwépemc—their traditions and cultures shaped by the life-sustaining rivers, plunging canyons, and fertile plains. Here in Nature’s Heartland, the land and its treasures have called to many cultures across generations, reflected today in a mosaic of enriching experiences: from powwows and rodeos to guest ranch stays.
During the Gold Rush in the 1800s, settlers arrived in British Columbia, following the river beds and trails—later known as the Gold Rush Trail—with the vital help of Indigenous guides and trackers whose trade routes had existed for millennia. This gold frenzied migration left intelligible marks on people and place. Today, heritage sites along the route share those stories, including Barkerville Historic Town, which recounts the past in a recreated 1860s boomtown with 125 heritage buildings and immersive period displays.
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The Cariboo: A Land Of Legends
Explore an area rich in natural beauty, history & culture.
Montana Hill Guest Ranch | Destination BC/Andrew Strain Explore More
Gold Rush Trail: Uncover The Stories
Journey between communities to learn about the riches of the land and the people who have harnessessed them for generations.
Williams Lake | Cariboo Chilcotin Coast/Jonny Bierman 
Cache Creek | Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson The spirit of adventure lives on in these layered landscapes. Cast a line into trout-filled lakes, ride rugged mountain bike trails, or find serenity in a remote campsite. Paddlers are spoiled for choice, from multi-day canoe circuits and peaceful lake days to whitewater thrills. In winter, the region transforms—calling Nordic skiers, snowmobilers, and ice fishers alike.
Touch the edges of the Cariboo and Gold Rush Trail on your Rainforest to Rockies circle route via the Sea-to-Sky Highway and beyond.
Places to go
Credit: Destination British Columbia BarkervilleTake a step back in time at this historic Gold Rush town that offers 125 heritage buildings and period displays.
Williams LakeA charming rural community at the edge of pristine lakes, forests, and desert-like landscapes.
100 Mile HouseThis vibrant and welcoming community invites visitors to stay and play year-round.
ClintonCharming Gold Rush era village located between Vancouver and Prince George.
Credit: Destination BC | Blake Jorgenson LillooetSurrounded by rugged benchlands and rushing rivers, this historic town is steeped in history.
QuesnelThis nature-forward town offers fishing, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing.
WellsAn artsy community nestled in a valley in the Cariboo Mountain foothills on the doorstep of historic Barkerville.
Journey Through The Gold Rush Trail
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Experiences
Things to Do in the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail
Stay Here
Accommodations in the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail
Credit: Destination BC | Abby Cooper