Natural Wonders

Wilderness, waterfalls, provincial parks, and ice caves—the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is brimming with natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Beyond its forests, lakes, plateaus, and plains, this region offers a rich array of wildlife experiences. You might embark on a whale-watching tour one day and spot grizzly bears or the rare white Kermode, or Spirit bear, the next. Birdwatching is also popular, as this region is home to one of the highest diversities of breeding birds in all of North America, from Blue Mountain Birds to American White Pelicans and beyond.

Don’t miss the unique geology of the Bridge Lake Ice Caves or the stunning splendour of Hunlen Falls in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park.

Cariboo Gold Rush Trail

Hunting in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

Bordered by the Cariboo Mountains to the east and the Fraser River to the west, the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail is more than just a path of history and culture; it’s a gateway to some of BC’s most stunning natural wonders. The central region features geography ranging from rare inland rainforests and mountain lakes to arid, lava-formed canyons. Meanwhile, the South Cariboo boasts rolling grasslands, pine and aspen forests, semi-arid desert vistas, and tranquil lakes.

For stunning scenery and great fishing, head to Fraser Canyon, renowned for late-season steelhead runs on the Thompson River. Between Lytton and Lillooet, anglers can try sturgeon fishing on remote stretches of the Fraser River. In the South Cariboo’s Land of Hidden Waters, the famous and incredibly gorgeous Fishing Highway (Highway 24) offers top-notch fishing for rainbow trout, kokanee, char, and brook trout.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Gold Rush Trail offers abundant opportunities to spot a variety of animals, including deer, moose, California bighorn sheep, mountain goats, black and grizzly bears, cougars, lynx, wolves, eagles, and more.

In addition to fishing and wildlife viewing, the region offers a variety of year-round outdoor activities. Explore trails leading to spectacular waterfalls, with options ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The South Cariboo also boasts opportunities for horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in nature’s serenity by exploring the scenic landscapes of numerous provincial parks. Highlights include Bowron Lake and Lac La Hache Provincial Parks along the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail, and Canim Beach and Green Lake Provincial Parks in the Land of Hidden Waters.

Chilcotin

Carpenter Lake, Chilcotin | Nick Trehearne

The Chilcotin‘s diverse natural wonders lie between the Coast Mountains and the Fraser River, featuring everything from dry grasslands to glacier-fed lakes. The Homathko, Klinaklini, and Dean rivers flow west through the Coast Mountains, while the Chilko and Fraser rivers drain the southeast.

The region boasts diverse wildlife, including Canada’s largest population of bighorn sheep, rare white pelicans, trumpeter swans, bears, lynx, wolves, mountain caribou, and wild horses. Along the Chilcotin Plateau, lucky visitors may spot American White Pelicans, along with BC birds like the Common Loon, Western Grebe, Cinnamon Teal, and Osprey.

The Chilcotin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round adventure and exploration, as well as breathtaking provincial parks like South Chilcotin Mountains Park and Itcha Ilgachuz Provincial Park. In the colder months, the area transforms into a playground for winter sports.

The Bridge River Valley, a popular destination in the region, is an adventurer’s paradise with vast landscapes, guided excursions, and stunning views. Enjoy a drier climate than coastal areas, ideal for exploring trails, paddling serene lakes, and marveling at glacier-hewn icefields, grassland meadows, and majestic plateaus. Here, your only limits are time and imagination.

Great Bear Rainforest

Hunlen Falls, Tweedsmuir Provincial Park | Tyler Cave

Whether you come to the Great Bear Rainforest to fish, hike, bike, ocean kayak, take a wildlife eco-tour, soak in the hot springs or just enjoy the natural wonders of this mysterious and beautiful land, you will be treated to unforgettable moments. The mist-draped coastline of the Pacific is lined with towering, snow-crowned peaks, massive ice fields and some of the world’s longest fjords.

Towering old-growth cedar and spruce forests blanket the landscape, while salmon-rich streams meander through the valley floors, nourishing the incredible wildlife that calls the Coast home. These waters sustain a variety of majestic creatures, including killer whales, eagles, coastal wolves, and bears. Embark on unforgettable whale-watching or bear-viewing tours for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness these animals up close in their natural habitats.

To the east of this awe-inspiring rainforest lies Bella Coola, a picturesque town and valley celebrated for its pure air, glacier-fed rivers, and remarkable wildlife. Beloved by naturalists, artists, and photographers alike, the area offers a tranquil retreat. Snootli Creek Regional Park features trails winding through ancient cedar groves, providing visitors with an immersive nature experience, and Tweedsmuir Park Lodge is a popular destination in the region, one that can’t be missed.

No matter where you find yourself in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, this breathtaking region offers wonders for all seasons. From south to north, east to west, every corner is sure to amaze. To start planning your trip, explore special offers and book your accommodation today.