A Gateway To Adventure

Quesnel, BC

By Prestige Adventures

September 24^th, 2024

"Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Quesnel is a city rich in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Located in the Cariboo Regional District, at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel River, this is a place where the past meets the present. It offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures and historical exploration. Whether you're seeking the thrill of the wilderness or the charm of a small-town atmosphere, Quesnel has something to offer every traveler.

A Land With A History

Long before the arrival of prospectors during the Cariboo Gold Rush of 1862, the First Nations peoples - the Dakelh/Carrier - lived off the land around Quesnel, occupying the area from the Bowron Lakes in the east to the upper Blackwater River and Dean River in the west. The Southern Carrier Nation were known among themselves as ‘Uda Ukelh’, meaning ‘people who travel by boat on water early in the morning’.

The area was home to the Lhtako Dene Nation, Ulkatcho First Nation, Lhoosk'uz Dene Nation and Nazko First Nation which are all part of the Dakelh Territory, and the ?Esdilagh First Nation which is part of the Tsilhqot’in Territory. All these bonded with nature and lived off the bounty of the harvest provided.

The city of Quesnel itself grew from humble beginnings, first as a trading post, then as a booming hub during the Cariboo Gold Rush. Gold seekers flocked to the area in the 1860s, hoping to strike it rich. Though the gold rush has long since passed, its legacy remains, and visitors can still feel the echoes of that era in the town’s historic sites. The forestry industry also played a significant role in Quesnel's growth, with the surrounding forests providing the resources needed for a thriving timber industry that continues to be a cornerstone of the local economy.

The Rocky Mountaineer at the Quesnel rail station at sunset.

Quesnel's tourism industry is largely based on the city's access to nature, with hunting and guiding outfitters, fishing, hiking, canoeing. The Rocky Mountaineer, a rail-tour train also travels through and stops overnight at Quesnel at the Pacific Great Eastern Railway Station, owned by BC Rail.

Quesnel's history as a gold-rush town is also reflected, as there are over 30 heritage sites around the city. Quesnel is home to the world's largest gold pan, measured at 5.5 m (18 ft) in diameter and weighing 1,400 kg (3,100 lb).

7:20 am the Rocky Mountaineer leaves the station in Quesnel.

The (disputed) largest gold pan in the world.

Step Back in Time at Barkerville Historic Village

One of the most fascinating day trips from Quesnel is to Barkerville Historic Village, a short drive away. Barkerville was once the epicenter of the gold rush, and today, it's one of Canada’s largest living-history museums. As you walk through the town's well-preserved streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the 1860s. The wooden storefronts, boardwalks, and period actors bring the town’s storied past to life.

Visitors can try their hand at panning for gold, just as the original prospectors did, or watch a live demonstration of blacksmithing. The town also features guided tours, a theater with performances based on historical events, and numerous shops where you can purchase handcrafted items that harken back to the gold rush days. Barkerville offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the region while enjoying interactive exhibits and lively reenactments.

Explore the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit

From the information booth, it's a 2.4 km hike to Kibbee Lake.

A family, with two young girls head to Kibbee Lake.

Two couples from Kamloops begin their 6-day paddling journey.

For those who crave adventure, the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit is a must-see. This world-renowned canoeing route is a short drive from Quesnel and offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. The circuit is a 116-kilometer chain of lakes, rivers, and portages that takes paddlers through some of British Columbia’s most stunning scenery. Surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, the Bowron Lakes offer both challenge and serenity.

Paddlers can expect to encounter everything from calm, mirror-like waters to more challenging sections of rapids. The circuit typically takes six to ten days to complete, making it perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in nature. Even if you’re short on time, you can still explore portions of the circuit on a day trip or overnight excursion, soaking in the breathtaking views and the tranquility of the wilderness.

Discover the Beauty of Hixon Falls

Just north of Quesnel, Hixon Falls is another popular destination for nature lovers. The falls, which drop approximately 30 meters (100 feet), are a spectacular sight, especially in the spring and early summer when the water flow is at its peak. The hike to the falls is relatively short and easy, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. As you approach, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation for the moment when the falls come into view. A tip for photographers who want to get "the shot" - you'll have to walk over a pathway of rocks across the river to get to the other side where the angle is best.

A young photographer takes the rocky path to the other side of the river in order to get a clear shot of the falls.

The powerful cascade of water tumbling over the rocks is a sight to behold, and the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for photography, picnicking, and simply enjoying the natural beauty.

As you leave, take note of the "phone to nowhere."

Stay Active in Quesnel

Back in the city of Quesnel, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. The city has developed a mountain bike track that has become a favorite among local kids and visitors alike. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, the track offers a fun way to get your adrenaline pumping while enjoying the great outdoors.

The Quesnel Bike Park offers a diverse range of trails and features designed to accommodate riders of every ability.

The park boasts multiple skills areas, including progressive dirt jumps as shown in this multiple exposure shot.

As you explore the city, don’t miss the quirky painted fire hydrants that dot the streets. Each hydrant is painted to resemble a little person, adding a touch of whimsy to the town’s character. These hydrants have become a beloved feature of Quesnel, and finding all 23 hydrants is a fun activity for families and visitors of all ages.

For a more relaxed pace, Quesnel also boasts many kilometers of walking trails, particularly along the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers. These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering scenic views of the water and the chance to spot local wildlife. The trails are well-maintained and vary in difficulty, making them accessible to walkers of all skill levels.

The Riverfront Trail System is a paved trail that gives residents and visitors access to the river environment and provides a scenic, peaceful circle tour through the community.

Dragon Lake

Dragon Lake, an easy drive from downtown, offers a sense of tranquility. This small, serene lake is perfect for paddleboarding and fishing. Gliding across the water on a paddleboard, locals and visitors alike can immerse themselves at the reflection of the sky on the lake’s surface, a mirror of blues and whites.

Not only is Quesnel naturally beautiful, it has a deep history that is reflected in the arts and culture scene of today. With antique shops, art galleries, historic sites and music and art venues, Quesnel has something for everyone. So whether you’re stopping in on your way through, or exploring the options in your own back yard, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with what you find.

Quesnel is more than just a destination—it’s a place where history and adventure come together.

Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Barkerville, paddling the pristine waters of the Bowron Lakes, or simply enjoying a walk along the river, Quesnel offers a rich tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.