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Welcome To The North Thompson Valley
Wednesday, June 19th, 2002 by GetawayBC.com
The North Thompson Valley is cradled by rolling hills in the south, the soaring Cariboo mountain ranges in the west and the towering Monashees in the North East. The valley can be reached in an easy day’s drive from the large city of Edmonton in the North East and from the metropolis of Vancouver in the West.
British Columbia’s fourth largest city, Kamloops is the southern gateway to the North Thompson Valley via Highway 5 (The Yellowhead). Blue River is the most Northern town of the valley and is nestled in the shadow of the spectacular Monashee Mountain Range. Between these towns lies a valley with a natural setting that ranges from gentle to rugged; a countryside filled with vacation possibilities.
The North Thompson Valley offers nature at its best for outdoor enthusiasts, with pastimes as varied as the tourists who visit. Lakes and rivers throughout provide the opportunity for the whole family to enjoy swimming, boating, water skiing and fishing. One can experience everything from the rush of white water rafting to the serenity of paddling a canoe on a lake so calm the skyline is mirrored in its waters.
Our back country provides both simple hiking ventures for the novice and rock climbing and mountain biking for the more experienced and adventurous. Internationally renowned Wells Gray Provincial Park lies just North West of Clearwater, the largest settlement in the valley. This and other Provincial Parks offer camping on your own or guided tours, the pace can be set by you. View the spectacular scenery from horseback or helicopter, your destination is limited only by your imagination.
Modern accommodations are conveniently located along the route, as well as resorts and camping places which are all accessible from Highway #5. If your tastes lie in Bed and Breakfast, or if you own a horse Bed, Bale and Breakfast, we can accommodate. You have the option to enjoy five star hotels at Sun Peaks or stay at Guest Ranches in Clearwater.
Major settlements along the way have a variety of retail outlets to serve the needs of travelers. Restaurants range from fine dining to fast food. Grab a quick snack or relax over dinner after a day’s travel. For a once in a lifetime experience, try a gourmet heli-picnic at 7000 feet above sea level in Blue River.
Plan your vacation by destination, theme or by event. Why not golf your way through, or go antiquing? Antique stores are located in Heffley Creek, Barriere, Little Fort and Clearwater. Throughout July and August tourists can enjoy free Music in the Park every night in Kamloops or take in the symphony at Sun Peaks. Enjoy festivals? Music, Art, Alpine Flower and Mountain Bike Festivals are just a few highlights throughout the region. Not to be missed, Barriere showcases its 56th Annual Fall Fair and Rodeo this year. Eco tours are available in Wells Gray Park and Blue River offers a Yoga Retreat. Be sure to check out the Calendar of Events at the back of this publication.
The wildfires of 2003 left deep scars on sections of the North Thompson valley’s landscape. They present a shocking vista and will leave a lasting impression on people who pass through the area.
Look closely now, these fire-scarred sites also allow visitors to witness the awesome strength of nature as it heals. Two years after the wildfires there are signs of recovery everywhere. Mother Nature has had assistance with reforestation projects on Strawberry Hill in Kamloops, McLure and Louis Creek near Barriere.