Wedged between the Coast Mountains and the Rockies, BC's interior puts you at a crossroads of sweeping ranchlands, grassy vistas, and golden plateaus. And that鈥檚 just the landscape. There is a rich history here, too, from the Indigenous peoples whose stories, traditions, and stewardship of the land span millennia, to the ranchers, gold prospectors, and adventurers who braved unknown wilderness to traverse rough terrain and uncharted waterways.
Challenge yourself to try something new and experience some of BC鈥檚 history this summer through guest ranch stays, cultural tours, museum visits, guided trips into the backcountry, and more.
Drive Through Historic Gold Rush Country
Follow in the footsteps of 1860s 聽prospectors and see how the mighty Fraser River shaped life in these parts. From , head west toward 聽and 鈥淢ile 0鈥� of the historic Cariboo Waggon Road. Visit sites ranging from preserved road houses to ghost towns and connect with locals in small towns along the way. Travel as far as , which brings this era to life with a restored townsite and costumed interpreters, and en route discover a vital Indigenous culture that dates back thousands of years.
Stay at a Guest Ranch
If you鈥檝e dreamed of long trail rides through peaceful pastures or into meadows bursting with wildflowers, consider a stay at one of BC鈥檚 many guest ranches, most of which are found in the Cariboo and Chilcotin. The quintessential guest ranch experience is, of course, riding the range, but when you need a break from the saddle, the possibilities are many. Whether you鈥檙e looking for a true cowboy experience (think: corralling livestock or mucking out stalls) or something a little less rugged (a day at the onsite spa, anyone?), you鈥檒l find freedom and adventure in the wide-open spaces.
Cast a line in calm lakes and fast-moving rivers, hike into the mountains for expansive views, or stick close to the ranch鈥攁nd to the cowboy theme鈥攚ith wagon rides, lasso throwing, and, of course, tall tales around a campfire under a clear, starry sky.
Find Adventure in the Wild
With wide-open spaces come wide-open opportunities for adventure. The lakes and rivers of BC鈥檚 interior beckon with more places to fish than you can experience in a lifetime. There are calm waters for paddling鈥攊ncluding multi-day wilderness canoe routes鈥攁nd there are stretches of thrilling whitewater for adrenaline junkies. You can fly into the backcountry for some hardcore hiking and mountain biking from an alpine basecamp or saddle up for an off-the-grid horse-packing trip. Whichever option you choose, keep your camera close as you鈥檙e very likely to spot some of BC鈥檚 four-legged residents along the way.
