More than ever, Canadians are wanting to explore new and unique travel destinations right here in Canda. British Columbia’s Cariboo region needs to be on the list. And there, the City of Quesnel holds the key to unlocking exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Before explorers, and fur traders, and the Gold Rush of the 1800s turned Quesnel into a major stopover and supply centre, the Lhtako Dene First Nation knew this place, where the waters meet, was special. Today, Quesnel is conveniently located 90 minutes south of Prince George on Highway 97 at the confluence of the Quesnel and Fraser Rivers.
Nature is a way of life
With proximity to mountains, rivers and lakes, natural beauty and access to outdoor activities is never far away. And with more than 400 kilometres of well-defined trails within a 20 km radius of the city, it’s like striking gold for those interested in hiking, horseback riding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ATV riding, and so much more.
Quesnel is recognized as a growing hub for mountain biking. In the hills and forests surrounding the city are a variety of trails catering to green and expert riders, and everyone in between. The Wonderland and Dragon Mountain trails are highlights, as is the Quesnel Bike Park. And don’t worry if you don’t have your own wheels, bike rentals for all sizes of explorers are available.
Minutes away from the city is Dragon Lake. It’s a fisher’s paradise with trophy-size rainbow trout and year-round fishing, including prime ice-fishing conditions from late November to April. And when winter arrives, the fun doesn’t stop. Locals and visitors alike head to the nearby Troll Ski Resort, just a half-hour away along the Barkerville Highway. And if cross-country skiing is more your thing, then you’ll want to explore the Hallis Lake ski trails, developed and maintained by the Cariboo Ski Touring Club, where you can enjoy high quality Nordic skiing, including a four-kilometre lighted trail, perfect for winter evenings.
Walking through history
The charm of Quesnel is there is something for everyone, and no shortage of activities to do right in town. After getting to know the city better at the Quesnel & District Museum, take a stroll through history on a walking tour through the downtown. Enjoy the mix of shops and restaurants serving local hospitality And keep your eyes peeled for the 23 colourfully painted fire hydrants that represent historical people and professions in Quesnel.
The Riverfront Trail offers a beautiful, five-kilometre loop, giving walkers and cyclists views of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers. And not to be missed is the nearly century-old Fraser River Footbridge, which at 831 feet is the longest wood truss walking bridge in the world.
The city offers a range of accommodation, but if you have an RV or tent, the city’s downtown RV Park and Campground couldn’t be more convenient with picturesque sites next to the Quesnel River.
In Quesnel, short stays become lifelong memories. Experience it for yourself.
