The Heart of Gold Country

A variety of British Columbia communities make up this scenic region that offers a classic Western Canadian RV trip.

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Words by Marcie Down

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s interior, Gold Country is a land of striking sunrises and sunsets. The golden glow of the sun reflecting off the mountain peaks, rolling hillsides and glistening grasslands all create a palette of pinks, shimmering golden yellows, purples and blues, which paint a gleaming backdrop that has been the inspiration for many photographers, artisans, poets, musicians, and outdoor enthusiasts. 

This glow beckons to those who love to explore and discover nature. Follow paths through wildflowers, forests of pine, fir, and aspen, or hike the trails that ascend to mountain peaks where the air is cool with spacious, endless sights of meandering rivers, canyons, and valleys. Visitors to Gold Country in BC will be treated to incredible views of geological and natural wonders, and sites of historical and cultural significance.

A few of these include Mimi Falls; Logan Lake; the Deadman Valley (near Savona); McAbee Fossil Bed (near Cache Creek); Ashcroft; Skihist Park; Lytton; Hat Creek Ranch (north of Cache Creek); and Painted Chasm (near Clinton BC). There’s also Marble Canyon on Hwy 99 towards Lillooet as well as the Miyazaki House. 

Discover nature in Logan Lake, which is located on Hwy 97 C and hike along the newly designated trail to a viewing platform above Mimi Falls. Wild strawberries grow plentiful and black bears, deer and other woodland creatures graze on this abundant plant and other vegetation along this landscape. A map and guides of the area are available at the Logan Lake Visitors Information Centre or the community’s municipal office. 

Approximately 75 km (47 mi) northwest of Kamloops, Deadman Valley is home to Castle Rock Hoodoos Provincial Park and Deadman Vidette Waterfall. With white to yellow cliffs, hoodoos and eroded volcanic ash, these scenic locations make for ideal stops and are traditional gathering places of the Secwepemc people. From the Bonaparte Plateau, the Deadman River flows west before it descends rapidly, forming the exquisite Deadman Falls, before flowing in the variety of lakes along the route. 

The McAbee Fossil Bed is part of an ancient lake bed just east of Cache Creek and west of Kamloops. This is one of the most significant sites in British Columbia for plants and insects of the Eocene Epoch era that ended approximately 34 million years ago. Before setting out to view this area be sure to visit the website for updates. 

What’s unique about Cache Creek is it has a 1950’s graffiti theme and neon lights. Stop for a while in this bustling village to recharge with the many amenities and services. Or, discover Ashcroft that offers a walking tour of the history and a variety of art installations throughout the village. 

Relax at scenic Skihist Provincial Park near Lytton that’s just off Hwy 1. It’s here where there are amazing views of the rocky terrain and be sure to take a short adventure walk along a section of the historic Cariboo Wagon Road that winds along the cliffs of the canyon. To enhance a visit,  explore Lytton and experience the locally grown produce, beaded jewellery, works of art, and clothing. 

Another unique region within BC’s Gold Country is Hat Creek Ranch where you can walk back in time while listening to stories of yesteryear and learn about the life and culture of the Indigenous families (that call this land home) and the early settlers. Located off Hwy 97 and Hwy 99, this historic site has much to see and experience.  

View the Painted Chasm with its many colourful layers that reveal tales of time. The Painted Chasm canyon runs 8 km (5 mi) long, .6 km (.4 mi) wide and is 300 m (984 ft) deep from the top of the plateau. Located just north is Clinton where there’s another self-guided walking tour. Pick up a complimentary guide at the Village of Clinton or local museum. 

Going further north off Hwy 1 onto Hwy 99, the marble cliffs above Marble Canyon give this scenic canyon its name. There are three beautiful lakes to enjoy that include Turquoise, Crown, and Pavilion. Bring a kayak and glide along the water’s surface of one or all three of these lakes as each one is so unique. Sandpiper birds flit about the shoreline where dragonflies hover.  View the waterfall that ice climbers ascend when it is frozen in winter.

Further along Hwy 99 is Lillooet and the Miyazaki House. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and historical sites, this was once the home of ​Dr. Masajiro Miyazaki who was born in Japan in 1899, emigrated to Canada in 1913 and graduated from the University of British Columbia. During World War II, Dr. Miyazaki and his family were interned at Bridge River. In 1944, a petition was drafted that allowed the Miyazaki family to move into the Longford House where he established his medical office. Before his passing in 1984, Dr. Miyazaki gifted the property to the Village of Lillooet. It is now known as the Miyazaki House and his office is preserved as he left it. Other attractions worth visiting include the 23 Camels Bridge, Xwisten fishing rocks, and hiking trails among this scenic mountain setting. 

History meets adventure within and surrounding the communities of Gold Country. Take in the local hot spots and relax, rest, and replenish as you experience your journey. Discover nature, and view wildlife such as deer, bighorn sheep, bears and moose as you circle the highways and roads that take you to the villages, towns, and communities that all have tales of perseverance, intrigue, and a deep-rooted connection with nature. Or, create your geocaching adventure tour with the Gold Country GeoTour Field Guides and seek out geocaches through stories and locations that provide the opportunity to learn about this intrinsic region. 

As you travel through each chapter of Gold Country, the sights, sounds and tales all stitch these areas and cultures together like a beautiful hand-made quilt that many get wrapped up in and create their adventure.  

For more information on the communities, camping and RV locations visit www.exploregoldcountry.com. Seek more adventure tales at www.goldtrail.com.