Wells-Barkerville Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and restaurants to try in Wells-Barkerville. Learn about local culture, customs, and safety tips for your trip to this beautiful destination in British Columbia, Canada.


Introduction to Wells-Barkerville

Nestled in the heart of Cariboo-Central Coast, in British Columbia, Canada, Wells-Barkerville is a heritage town full of history, culture, and adventure. This charming destination attracts visitors from all over the world with its preserved gold rush era buildings, outdoor recreational opportunities, and natural wilderness.

Whether you want to explore historic sites, experience outdoor adventures, or sample the local food and drink scene, Wells-Barkerville has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the must-visit attractions, best activities to do, and insider tips to make the most of your trip to Wells-Barkerville.

List of Places to Visit in Wells-Barkerville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wells-Barkerville is steeped in history, with many of its heritage buildings preserved in their original state. Here are the must-visit cultural attractions in Wells-Barkerville:

  • Barkerville Historic Town and Park: Step back in time to the gold rush era of the 1800s and learn about life in a bustling gold mining town. The park features over 100 historic buildings, period costumes, and interactive exhibits.
  • Cornish Waterwheel: See the only wooden waterwheel still in operation in North America, used to power a stamp mill for gold processing.
  • Jack O’ Clubs Casino: Located in the historic Wells Hotel, this casino offers entertainment, dining, and a gaming floor featuring over 70 slot machines.
  • Xatśūll Heritage Village: This indigenous-owned village is a living cultural museum, showcasing the traditional way of life of the Secwepemc people. Guided tours include interactive experiences, such as trying your hand at traditional skills like arrowhead-making and basket-weaving.

Natural Attractions of Wells-Barkerville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Surrounded by mountains, forests, and lakes, Wells-Barkerville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top natural attractions to visit in Wells-Barkerville:

  • Bowron Lake Provincial Park: Located just outside of Wells-Barkerville, this park features a chain of lakes with panoramic mountain views, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and camping.
  • Mount Polley: This mine-turned-hiking trail offers stunning views of the region and easy access to prime berry-picking spots.
  • Barkerville Mountain: Located right in town, this mountain offers great hiking trails for all skill levels, with views of the town and the surrounding wilderness.
  • Blackwater River: This river running through Wells is a popular spot for fishing and river rafting, with Class II to III rapids and scenic nature trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wells-Barkerville

Wells-Barkerville offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in Canada. Here are the top routes to explore:

  • Barkerville Heritage Trail: This easy 1.5 km trail connects Barkerville and Richfield, showcasing the beautiful scenery of the Cariboo Mountains.
  • Bowron Lake Circuit: A 116 km backcountry circuit trail, perfect for avid hikers and mountain bikers. Takes at least 6 days to complete.
  • Cariboo Cameron Lake Loop: A moderate 11 km hiking trail that passes stunning Cameron Lake.
  • Mount Murray Loop: A challenging 7 km hike that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Wells and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Wells-Barkerville: Activities and Tours

From historic tours to outdoor adventures, Wells-Barkerville offers a variety of things to do. Here are some top activities and tours:

  • Historic Walking Tour of Barkerville: Learn about the gold rush era and the historic buildings in Barkerville on this guided walking tour.
  • Horse-drawn Wagon Tour: Take a fun and authentic tour of Barkerville in a horse-drawn wagon, while learning about the town’s history and culture.
  • Mountain Biking Tour: Ride through stunning mountain trails with a professional guide. Equipment provided.
  • Gold Panning: Try your hand at gold panning with professional equipment and instruction provided.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wells-Barkerville

To fully experience all that Wells-Barkerville has to offer, we recommend this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Wells, check in to accommodation, and explore the town.
Day 2 Visit Barkerville Historic Town and Park and Jack O' Clubs Casino.
Day 3 Take a horse-drawn wagon tour, hike the Barkerville Mountain, and try gold-panning.
Day 4 Take a guided tour to Xatśūll Heritage Village and learn about traditional indigenous culture.
Day 5 Explore Bowron Lake Provincial Park, fish, or kayak in the chains of lakes. Camp overnight.
Day 6 Take a mountain biking tour or hike the Mount Murray Loop.
Day 7 Depart Wells-Barkerville or spend the day relaxing and taking in the scenic views.

Food and Drink Scene of Wells-Barkerville

Must-Try Dishes

Wells-Barkerville offers a variety of dining options, including local cuisine and international food. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Poutine: A Canadian classic, try this delicious dish of french fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
  • Fish and Chips: Freshly caught fish and Canadian beer-battered fries, a perfect pairing.
  • Wild Berry Pie: Made with locally-sourced berries, this dessert is a sweet treat that celebrates the region’s natural bounty.

Local Beverages

Wells-Barkerville has a small but thriving craft beer scene, with two breweries in town:

  • Barkerville Brewing Co.: This brewery is located in the historic Wells Hotel and produces a range of craft beers, including the popular 52 Foot Stout.
  • Three Ranges Brewing Co.: This brewery offers a rotating lineup of craft beers, made with local ingredients and traditional brewing methods.

Where to Stay in Wells-Barkerville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wells-Barkerville offers a variety of accommodation options, from quaint guesthouses to historical hotels:

  • Wells Hotel: This historic hotel dates back to 1936 and offers comfortable rooms with an old-world charm.
  • The Lodge at Barkerville: A cozy and modern lodge with log cabins and RV sites. Perfect for families and groups.
  • Mountain Thyme Getaway: A charming guesthouse with uniquely designed rooms and breathtaking views of the Cariboo Mountains.

What to Buy in Wells-Barkerville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for souvenirs and gifts to bring back home? Here are some top options:

  • Barkerville Gold: Bring a piece of the gold rush home with you by purchasing a gold nugget or gold pan.
  • Indigenous Crafts: Xatśūll Heritage Village offers a gift shop with authentic indigenous crafts like beaded jewelry, hand-carved wood, and traditional clothing.
  • Art and Photography: The region is known for its inspiring landscapes, and you can find many local artists selling paintings, prints, and photography depicting the scenery of Wells-Barkerville.

Local Culture and Customs of Wells-Barkerville

The region has a rich history and culture, with a mix of indigenous traditions and settlers from around the world. Some customs to note include:

  • Indigenous Culture: The Secwepemc people are the traditional inhabitants of the region, and their history, culture, and traditions are celebrated and preserved at Xatśūll Heritage Village.
  • Multiculturalism: The gold rush era attracted settlers from all over the world, including Europe, Asia, and the United States. This mix of cultures is reflected in the local restaurants, festivals, and events.
  • Respect for Nature: Wells-Barkerville is surrounded by pristine wilderness, and locals value and respect the natural surroundings. Be sure to leave no trace of your visit and follow local guidelines for conservation.

Best Time to Visit Wells-Barkerville

The best time to visit Wells-Barkerville is during the summer months, from June to August. Temperatures are warm, and the wildflowers and landscapes are in full bloom. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit, with colorful foliage and quieter crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wells-Barkerville

Do:

  • Respect Nature: Follow leave-no-trace principles and respect local guidelines for conservation.
  • Embrace Local Culture: Learn about the indigenous traditions and the gold rush history of the region.
  • Try Local Food and Drink: Sample the delicious local cuisine and craft beers.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep Wells-Barkerville beautiful by taking your trash with you.
  • Harm Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed or touch them.
  • Ignore Safety Guidelines: Follow local safety guidelines for outdoor activities and tours.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wells-Barkerville

Wells-Barkerville is a safe destination for visitors, but it’s important to observe basic safety guidelines like:

  • Bear Safety: The region is home to grizzly and black bears, so it’s important to carry bear spray, make noise on trails, and be aware of local warnings.
  • Outdoor Safety: Weather conditions can change quickly, so it’s important to bring appropriate gear and check weather forecasts before heading out.
  • Traffic Safety: Be aware of traffic on the roads and intersections when walking or driving.

Health in Wells-Barkerville

Wells-Barkerville has a clinic and a pharmacy for basic health needs, and the nearest hospital is in Quesnel, approximately a 1-hour drive away. It’s important to bring any required medications and address any medical needs before your trip.

Getting to Wells-Barkerville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wells-Barkerville

The closest airport to Wells-Barkerville is Prince George Airport (YXS), approximately 2.5 hours away by car. The airport offers several daily connecting flights to major cities in Canada and the United States.

Bus Stations Near Wells-Barkerville

Wells-Barkerville doesn’t have a bus station, but the nearest bus stop is in Quesnel, approximately a 45-minute drive away. Greyhound Canada offers daily bus services from Vancouver to Quesnel.

Other Options

Driving to Wells-Barkerville is the most convenient option, with several scenic routes available. Car rentals are available at most major airports.

How to Get Around in Wells-Barkerville

Wells-Barkerville is a small town and can easily be explored on foot. Bike rentals are available for exploring the nearby trails and natural attractions.

Where to Go Next from Wells-Barkerville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Wells-Barkerville is located in the heart of the Cariboo region, and there are several nearby destinations worth visiting, including:

  • Quesnel: A small city located approximately 1 hour away, featuring several historic sites and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Williams Lake: Located approximately 2 hours away by car, this town offers a range of outdoor adventure activities like fishing, hunting, and hiking.
  • Jasper National Park: This world-famous national park in Alberta is approximately a 4-hour drive away and offers unparalleled natural beauty, hiking, and adventure activities.

Conclusion

Wells-Barkerville is a beautiful and charming destination worth visiting for its rich history and culture, outdoor activities, and scenic landscape. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to this unique Canadian destination.

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