100 Mile House Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and must-try dishes in 100 Mile House. Learn about local culture, customs, and safety tips. Plan your trip with our comprehensive week-long itinerary and transportation guide.


Introduction to 100 Mile House

Located in the Cariboo-Central Coast of British Columbia, Canada, 100 Mile House is a quaint rural town that attracts visitors with its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. The town got its name from the 100 miles (160 kilometers) that separated it from Lillooet during the Cariboo Gold Rush in the late 1800s.

List of Places to Visit in 100 Mile House

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in 100 Mile House. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • 100 Mile House Museum: Learn about the town’s rich history and heritage, from the First Nations peoples, to the fur traders and gold miners, to the settlers. The museum has artifacts, displays, and exhibits that showcase the town’s past.

  • South Cariboo Visitor Centre: Get information about the town’s attractions, events, and accommodations from the friendly staff. The visitor center also has a gift shop that sells souvenirs, books, and maps.

  • Historic 108 Mile Ranch: Visit one of the oldest ranches in British Columbia that dates back to the 19th century. Explore the historic buildings, gardens, and walking trails. You can also enjoy horseback riding, golfing, and fishing in the area.

Natural Attractions of 100 Mile House: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • 100 Mile Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary: Observe a diverse array of bird species, including trumpeter swans, Canada geese, and sandhill cranes, at this protected wetland area. The sanctuary has a viewing platform, walking trails, and interpretive panels.

  • Mt. Timothy Ski Area: Hit the slopes at this family-friendly ski resort that offers snowboarding, skiing, and tubing. The resort has a lodge, rental equipment, and ski lessons.

  • Green Lake Provincial Park: Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Green Lake, go fishing for rainbow trout or kokanee, or hike the trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of 100 Mile House

Exploring 100 Mile House on foot or bike is a great way to experience the town’s natural beauty up close. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area:

  • Centennial Park Trail: This 5-kilometer trail is suitable for beginners and families with children. It circles around Centennial Park and offers scenic views of the surrounding forests.

  • Mt. Timothy Ski Area Trails: These trails are popular among mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners. They offer varying levels of difficulty, from easy to advanced, and take you through forests, meadows, and mountains.

  • Flat Lake Provincial Park Trail: This 4.5-kilometer loop trail takes you through the beautiful Flat Lake Provincial Park, with its serene lake, towering trees, and abundant wildlife.

Best Things to Do in 100 Mile House: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of fun activities and tours in 100 Mile House. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Horseback Riding Tours: Explore the wilderness and scenic trails around 100 Mile House on horseback. You can choose from guided tours that range from a few hours to several days and cater to all experience levels.

  • Canoe and Kayak Tours: Take a guided tour of the pristine lakes and rivers of the Cariboo region on a canoe or kayak. You’ll get to see wildlife, fish, and birds up close.

  • Fishing Charters: Go on a fishing trip on one of the many lakes and rivers around 100 Mile House with a professional guide. You can catch salmon, trout, and char.

Week-Long Itinerary for 100 Mile House

If you’re planning to stay in 100 Mile House for a week, here’s a sample itinerary that combines the town’s top attractions and activities:

Day Activity
1 Visit the 100 Mile House Museum, have lunch at Chartreuse Moose Cappuccino Bar, hike the Centennial Park Trail.
2 Go on a horseback riding tour with Spruce Hill Resort, have dinner at The Sugar Shack.
3 Explore the Historic 108 Mile Ranch, go fishing on Green Lake, have lunch at Red Rock Grill.
4 Take a scenic drive to South Cariboo Visitor Centre, have lunch at BJ’s Donuts & Eatery, bike the Mt. Timothy trails.
5 Visit the Clinton Museum, go on a fishing charter with Fisherman’s Paradise Adventures, have dinner at 14th Ave Pub.
6 Canoe or kayak on Watch Lake, have lunch at The Waterfront Restaurant, hike the Flat Lake Provincial Park Trail.
7 Ski or snowboard at Mt. Timothy Ski Area, have lunch at Snow Bros Coffee Co., relax at 100 Mile House Hot Springs.

Food and Drink Scene of 100 Mile House

100 Mile House has a vibrant culinary scene that offers a wide range of local and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: This Canadian classic dish consists of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. You can find it in many restaurants and cafes in 100 Mile House, including Chartreuse Moose Cappuccino Bar.

  • Bannock: This traditional First Nations bread is made with flour, water, and baking powder and can be sweet or savory. You can try it at Spruce Hill Resort.

  • Wild Game: Indulge in some elk, bison, or venison meat dishes that are locally sourced and prepared at The Red Coach Inn Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Heartland Brewing Company is a local microbrewery that produces a variety of craft beers, including IPA, lager, and stout. They also have a tasting room where you can sample their beers.

  • Wine: Bacchus Books & Cafe is a charming bookstore and cafe that also sells local wines from the Cariboo region. You can also enjoy a glass of wine with your meal.

  • Coffee: Snow Bros Coffee Co. is a local cafe that serves delicious coffee, tea, and baked goods. They roast their own beans and have a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Stay in 100 Mile House: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of affordable and comfortable accommodations in 100 Mile House that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Cozy Guesthouses: There are many cozy guesthouses and cabins that you can rent on Airbnb. They offer a more personal and authentic experience than traditional hotels.

  • Charming B&Bs: There are many charming bed and breakfasts in 100 Mile House that offer homemade breakfast, local hospitality, and comfortable rooms. Try Happy Trails RV Park & Rentals Ltd.

  • Affordable Hotels: There are many hotels in 100 Mile House that offer affordable rates and convenient locations. Try Ramada Limited 100 Mile House.

What to Buy in 100 Mile House: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t forget to bring back some souvenirs and local products from 100 Mile House to remember your trip. Here are some of the best ones to consider:

  • Handmade Crafts: The Craft Marketplace is a seasonal indoor market that sells handmade crafts, jewelry, and gifts from local artisans.

  • Wildlife Art and Photography: Laila’s Photography is a studio that offers wildlife photography prints, canvas, and other artwork that capture the beauty of the Cariboo region.

  • Local Honey: Henry’s Honey Bee Farm is a local farm that sells raw honey, beeswax candles, and other bee-related products that are organic and sustainably sourced.

Local Culture and Customs of 100 Mile House

The Cariboo region has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the First Nations peoples and the gold rush era. Here are some of the customs and traditions to keep in mind while in 100 Mile House:

  • First Nations culture and traditions are an integral part of the Cariboo region’s identity. Respect and honor their customs, language, and spirituality.

  • The people of 100 Mile House are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the locals and ask for recommendations.

  • Environmental sustainability is a core value in 100 Mile House. Be mindful of your carbon footprint, and try to support local businesses that have eco-friendly practices.

Best Time to Visit 100 Mile House

The best time to visit 100 Mile House depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a brief overview of the seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): This is a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Cariboo region, with its blooming wildflowers, birdwatching, and hiking.

  • Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities and festivals.

  • Fall (September to November): This is a quieter time for tourism, but still offers beautiful fall foliage, fishing, hunting, and events such as the Fall Fair.

  • Winter (December to February): This is the time for winter sports, such as skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. It’s also a time for cozying up by the fireplace and enjoying the Christmas spirit.

Do’s and Don’ts of 100 Mile House

Here are some of the dos and don’ts to keep in mind while exploring 100 Mile House:

Do:

  • Respect the local wildlife and nature. Don’t litter, and follow the outdoor recreation rules.

  • Try the local cuisine, craft beer, and wine.

  • Take part in the town’s events and festivals, such as the Fall Fair, 100 Mile House Farmer’s Market, and Cariboo Rocks The North.

Don’t:

  • Camp in unauthorized or prohibited areas.

  • Ignore the safety rules on ski slopes and other outdoor activities.

  • Take any artifacts or cultural objects from the museums or historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in 100 Mile House

Overall, 100 Mile House is a safe and friendly town. However, here are some general safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Beware of wildlife encounters, especially bears, moose, and cougars. Carry bear spray, make noise, and avoid confrontations.

  • Watch your speed on the roads, especially on rural highways and backroads.

  • Carry appropriate gear and clothing for outdoor activities and weather conditions.

Health in 100 Mile House

There is a small hospital and pharmacy in 100 Mile House, but for serious medical emergencies, you may need to go to Prince George or Vancouver. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during hot and dry weather.

  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn and skin damage.

  • Insects and ticks can be prevalent in the Cariboo region, so use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities.

Getting to 100 Mile House: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near 100 Mile House

The closest airport to 100 Mile House is the Kamloops Airport, which is about 135 kilometers (84 miles) away.

Bus Stations Near 100 Mile House

Greyhound is no longer in operation in Canada. Check with the South Cariboo Regional Airport for more up to date information about busses in the area.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most convenient option for getting to and around 100 Mile House, as there are many rental car options available. You can also take a shuttle or taxi from Kamloops or Prince George.

How to Get Around in 100 Mile House

There are several transportation options for getting around 100 Mile House conveniently and safely:

  • Public transit: There are a few local transit buses and on-demand ride services that can take you around the town and nearby areas.

  • Car rental: Renting a car is the most popular option for visitors who want to explore the town and surrounding attractions at their own pace. There are many car rental agencies nearby.

  • Bicycle and pedestrian: If you’re staying in the town center, you can easily walk or bike to many of the attractions and restaurants.

Where to Go Next from 100 Mile House: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time, here are some nearby destinations and day trips from 100 Mile House that you can explore:

  • Williams Lake: This charming town is only 94 kilometers (59 miles) away and offers many cultural and outdoor attractions, such as the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin, Scout Island Nature Centre, and Horsefly River.

  • Chilko Lake: This stunning lake is 150 kilometers (93 miles) away and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in British Columbia. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

  • Jasper and Banff National Parks: These world-renowned national parks are about a 7-hour drive away and offer some of the most impressive landscapes in Canada, such as glaciers, mountains, and hot springs.

Conclusion

100 Mile House is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, nature, and culture. With its diverse attractions, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Start planning your trip to 100 Mile House today and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cariboo region.

Town of 100 Mile House Town of 100 Mile House link= link=