Hiking along the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail
Jesmond, Near Marble Range Provincial Park | Blake JorgensonFollow in the footsteps of history as you explore trails first travelled by British Columbia’s Indigenous peoples and later gold rush explorers. Unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems are found throughout the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail, where hikes can include limestone karsts, alpine meadows and scenic vistas.
Big Bar Lake Provincial Park (2 km/1.2 mi, Easy)
This loop trail in Big Bar Lake Provincial Park takes travellers over the eskers and around the otter marsh. Discover beautiful views of the Marble Range and Fraser Plateau, and bring your binoculars for fantastic bird-watching in the area.
Blackwater Canyon (3 km/1.9 mi, Easy)
A well-marked, round trip hike along the Blackwater River, following Blackwater Canyon through lodgepole pines and flower-filled meadows to the canyon rim – and several viewpoints and picnic sites. Stay away from the edge of the canyon as the terrain is unstable. The trailhead starts at the Blackwater Crossing Recreation Site, 60 km (37 mi) west of Quesnel on Blackwater Road.
Quesnel Lake, BC | David Jacobson
Cameron Ridge Trail (14 km/ 9mi, Moderate)
This hike winds through subalpine forest and meadows along windswept ridges. The Cariboo Mountains Lookout at the 3-km (1.9-mi) point of the trail sits atop a 1,000-metre cliff, dropping straight down into the North Arm of Quesnel Lake. The trailhead is about halfway between Barkerville and Likely on Cariboo Lake Road.
Collins Overland Trail (33 km/21 mi, Moderate)
This hike follows part of the historic Collins Overland Telegraph Company survey route from Whittler Creek to Pantage Creek. The three separate trails are all well marked. Access is located 70 km (43 mi) from Likely on Cariboo Lake Road, 5 km (3 mi) past Maeford Lake.
Horsefly Lake Provincial Park (Various)
An assortment of hiking trails can be found within the park, leading from the park campground to Viewland Mountain or the alpine meadows at Eureka Peak. You can also explore trails around Horsefly Lake itself.
Barkerville (Various)
Barkerville Hiking Trails | Jonny Bierman
Groundhog Lake/Mount Agnes Trail (17 km/11 mi, moderate/strenuous): From Barkerville to Richfield following the route of the original Cariboo Waggon Trail to Summit Rock. Start along the back street of Barkerville.
Grouse Creek Trail – Barkerville to Racetrack Flats (30 km/19 mi, strenuous): Follow in the footsteps of Gold Rush miners travelling to their claims along Grouse Creek. The trail starts along the road just outside of Barkerville, heading across the bridge over Williams Creek, following the road, staying left for 5.5 km (3.4 mi) to signs indicating a right to turn onto Grouse Creek at the junction.
Lowhee to Barkerville (2 km/1.2 mi, easy): An easy walking trail from Lowhee Campground in Barkerville Park with Barkerville Cemetery and Barkerville Historic Town & Park.
Powderhouse Trail (30 km/19 mi, strenuous): Travel this historic hiking trail from the Barkerville area up to the high country at Mount Agnes. The Powder House Trail starts across the meadow from Summit Rock on the Cariboo Waggon Road.
Richfield Cemetery Trail (800 m/0.5 mi, easy/moderate): The trailhead is located near the north side of the Richfield Courthouse and begins with a brief climb but levels off. Consider taking the road out to the Waggon Road for a slightly longer walk.
Williams Creek Loop (10 km/6 mi, moderate): Trailhead sign for the 1861 Gold Rush Pack Trail is found below the Richfield Courthouse.
Discover more fantastic hiking trails throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, or download a travel guide to help plan your next adventure.
Respecting Communities and Cultures while hiking in the Land Without Limits
When travelling through our beautiful Land Without Limits, some undesignated hiking trails and backcountry routes will take you through Indigenous community areas. If possible, ask if you are permitted to hike through their land before you arrive. If you plan to take photos of buildings, art, artifacts or people, kindly ask permission first. By respecting the communities and culture you visit during your journey, you help make the experience a positive one for all involved.
Responsible Hiking in the Land Without Limits
No matter where you are hiking throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, use the following tips to ensure a safe and successful experience:
- Never attempt a trail that is too difficult for your capabilities;
- Carry the appropriate gear and supplies for the length of hike;
- Pack extra clothing for changes in weather conditions or an unexpected overnight stay;
- Make sure that someone knows where you are hiking and when you are expected to return – use the AdventureSmart Trip Planning App;
- Be aware of wildlife in the area and how to respond; and
- Always pack out what you bring in.
By being responsible hikers and travellers, we can all continue to enjoy the exceptional beauty of BC wilderness and preserve it for future generations.
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