Cariboo Road Trip: Quesnel, BC
For travellers wanting to explore the rich history of the Gold Rush era while enjoying exciting outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes, a road trip along the Cariboo Highway (Hwy 97), fondly referred to as the "Gold Rush Trail," is an absolute treat. Most travellers will spend some time in Quesnel before continuing north along the Cariboo Highway to Prince George or east along the Barkerville Highway (Hwy26) towards the historic gold rush town.
Quesnel (KWEH-nel) is halfway between Prince George and Williams Lake and is on the main route to the Yukon Territory. With a population of approximately 23,000, it is one of the largest urban centres between Prince George and Kamloops.
From its founding, Quesnel has been an important supply stop. Originally for fortune hunters seeking gold, Quesnel was known as the place to stock up on supplies and rest before continuing their journey. It continues in this role for the modern road tripper.
Quesnel has a rich history and offers amazing outdoor adventures throughout the year. The climate is mild (by Canadian standards), with average summer daytime temperatures above 24C (75F) and winter temperatures ranging between 0C and -10C (32F to 14F).
Come meander with me as I explore Quesnel, British Columbia.
Table of Contents
Location/Getting There
The easiest way to explore the Cariboo region is a road trip along Highway 97, which connects north and south within British Columbia. For visitors from Alberta, follow Highway 16, which connects to Jasper.
For travellers with less time, Quesnel Airport serves the area, and it has several commercial flights to and from Vancouver.
Ebus has daily routes between Kamloops and Vancouver and thrice-weekly routes between Kamloops and Prince George that stop in Quesnel.
Railroad fans can indulge in a luxurious 3-5 day tour on the Rocky Mountaineer Rainforest to Gold Rush route, starting in Vancouver and stopping in Whistler, Quesnel, and Jasper.
Once in Quesnel, the city has an efficient transit system provided by BC Transit. Vehicle rentals and taxi services can also be arranged.
BC's Cariboo Gold Rush
Long before the arrival of prospectors during the Cariboo Gold Rush of 1862, the First Nations peoples, the Dakelh (DACK-elth) or Southern Carrier, lived off the land around Quesnel. The Southern Carrier Nation were known among themselves as ‘Uda Ukelh,’ meaning ‘people who travel by boat on water, early in the morning’
Explorer Simon Fraser was one of the first Europeans to arrive in the area and declared the Fraser River far too hazardous for a safe trade route. However, the expedition established trade relations with numerous First Nations and developed a system of fur trade posts.
The Fraser River Gold Rush of 1857 kicked off a frenzy of fortune-seekers, and by 1859, they were staking claims up the Quesnel River. The Cariboo Gold Rush took off in 1861 after significant strikes on Williams Creek, turning the town of Barkerville into a bustling boomtown. At its peak, it was said to be the most populous city west of Chicago and north of San Francisco!
To keep up with the demand for supplies, the colonial government built the Cariboo Waggon Road. This trail was a game-changer, providing a safer and cheaper way to get to the goldfields and starting in Lillooet, the road connected to sternwheelers on the Quesnel River, making it easier for miners to get their gear and supplies. Eventually, the road was extended east to Barkerville. The name "Quesnel" is derived from Jules-Maurice Quesnel, who accompanied Simon Fraser on his journey to the Pacific Ocean.
Quesnel became a crucial stopping point on the gold rush trail, serving as a major supply center for miners. By 1863, the town was booming with businesses and new residents.
During the early 1930s, when much of the world was experiencing an economic depression, Quesnel continued to prosper as a supply centre with the opening of the Cariboo Gold Quartz Mine in Wells. The second Cariboo Gold Rush continued until the late 1950s, with the Cariboo Gold Quartz Mine closing down entirely in 1967.
The City of Quesnel
Forests cover the landscape around Quesnel, making it a hub for the timber industry. In fact, forestry is the biggest employer in town! While the timber industry has been a local staple for a long time—think building materials, firewood, and even railway ties—Quesnel also has a thriving tourism scene, thanks to its stunning natural beauty.
Hunting, fishing, hiking, canoeing, and winter skiing are popular here. Quesnel has plenty to offer if you’re looking for some history. As a former gold-rush town, you’ll find over 30 heritage sites scattered throughout the city.
Accommodations in Quesnel
Quesnel offers a wide range of accommodations, from full-service hotels to budget motels, as well as affordable BnBs and camping options to fit any budget. I travel in my converted campervan and stay in campsites on my road trips.
Most recently, I stayed at the Quesnel Downtown RV Park and Campground, located across from the Visitor Centre and alongside the Quesnel River. This campground's main attraction is its location, which puts it within walking distance of all the downtown attractions.
Campers will find both serviced and unserviced RV sites and a few tent sites at reasonable rates between $23 and $39 per night. Flush toilets are provided, but there are no showers or sani-dump, which can be found nearby. There is no privacy between sites and very little shade. This campground is best for short stays focussed on exploring the downtown core.
In my opinion, Robert's Roost Resort is a better camping option. On my previous visits to Quesnel, this was my choice. It is further from the downtown area, but the lakeside location, private sites, boat rentals, laundry, coin showers, free cable and WIFI services, and gaming areas make it a pleasant stay. RV travellers will appreciate the serviced and unserviced sites, while tenters will enjoy the grassy tent sites. Rates range between $36 and $54. Dragon Lake is a favourite for fishing, with an abundance of large rainbow trout.
Non-campers can rent fully furnished cabins or trailers—a perfect way to enjoy the outdoor camping experience with the comforts of a BnB. Rates are usually less than established hotels, starting at $120 per night.
Restaurants and Pubs
Quesnel has an abundance of diverse restaurants, pubs, and cafés to fit every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for fine dining, baked goods, cozy coffee shops and bakeries, fast food, or craft beer experiences, you'll find precisely what you are looking for.
Craig's Table
One of my favourite restaurants is the family-owned Craig's Table. The extensive menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The extensive menu makes choosing a challenge with many delicious options.
I really appreciate their small bites, which fit my appetite. My absolute favourite small bite is the Mushrooms Neptune—a delicious creamy blend of real crab and shrimp stuffed into a mushroom cap with melted cheese, served with garlic toast. During the summer, don't miss their sundae bar!
Barkerville Brewing Company
The Barkerville Brewing Company is the place for a craft beer experience. Its comfortable taproom and summer patio make it a great place to sample locally-produced brews in a fun and friendly environment. Their artisanal pizza and snack menu make it easy to linger and enjoy the experience. You can also pick up a T-shirt, hoodie, or hat as a unique souvenir.
Begbie's Bar and Grill
Begbie's Bar and Grill is located in the Tower Inn, a full-service restaurant named after the most famous BC Gold Rush era judge. Decorated with artifacts and old photos, visitors are guaranteed a good meal in a cozy establishment. The menu is nothing fancy, but it has good food at a reasonable price.
Quesnel Bakery
This family-run bakery, Quesnel Bakery, gets my business whenever I am in town. With delicious breads, pastries, cookies, and cakes, you'll be spoiled for choice. The staff is incredibly friendly and happy to make recommendations. A newer feature is the café area, where you can enjoy a bowl of homemade soup and freshly-made coffee to accompany your treat.
Attractions in Quesnel
The historic sites in Quesnel include many gold rush-era buildings and exhibits, and prides itself on the variety of recreational experiences available. The city states that "recreation isn't a vacation; it's a way of life" and promotes both outdoor and indoor recreation opportunities. Unique local businesses, a funky street art culture, and special events make Quesnel a good 2-3 day stop on a longer road trip.
Quesnel Visitor Centre and Museum
The Visitor Centre and Museum highlight the city's history and role during the Gold Rush era. Here, you can learn about the many colourful characters important to the city's development.
Exhibits include artifacts and stories of the Chinese, First Nations, and Sikh communities. One of the more unique exhibits is an early 20th-century "haunted doll" called Mandy, rumoured to have paranormal abilities.
In front of the museum is a large statue of Billy Barker surrounded by lovely garden plantings. Billy Barker was a gold miner who discovered and lost several fortunes and is credited with the founding of Barkerville.
Fire Hydrant Walking Tour
As visitors wander downtown, one of the more surprising sights is the uniquely painted fire hydrants. Nearby businesses sponsor 23 decorated hydrants. I spent a delightful couple of hours following the self-guided Fire Hydrant Walking Tour on the city's tourism website. I highly recommend you do the same.
Quesnel Train Station and Giant Gold Pan
Travellers on the Rocky Mountaineer tours will arrive and depart from this station. The station itself is unremarkable and not the original, but this is where visitors can see the Giant Gold Pan. The city boasts that this is the largest in North America, but the giant gold pan in Nome, Alaska, is slightly larger. It is probably best not to open this discussion with locals.
The Riverfront Trail
The Riverfront Trail includes more than 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) of trail that follows a route along the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers. It features green space, a river environment and the Fraser River Footbridge—the world's longest wooden truss pedestrian bridge. The trail is educational and scenic with interpretative signs along the way.
Other city walking trails can be found on the city's website, including short urban trails, longer park trails, and cycling routes,
Fishing/Grizzly Viewing Adventures
Visitors looking to enjoy the best of the outdoors will find excellent excursions run by Cariboo Rivers Fishing and Wildlife Adventures. Expert guides lead fly fishing excursions throughout the Cariboo region. Other adventures include Heli-fishing and Grizzly viewing. I have not gone on a fishing trip, but several friends have used this company and raved about the expertise of the guides and the wonderfully curated trips.
The Hudson's Bay Company Store
This original log building was built in 1882 for the Hudson's Bay Company, which sold supplies to miners and homesteaders until 1912. Since then, it has been a drug store, post office, and coffee shop. Its current occupant is a wonderful non-profit gift store, called Cariboo Keepsakes, selling local artisan crafts and souvenirs.
Heritage Corner
Across the street from the Hudson's Bay Company Store, on the banks of the Fraser River, is Heritage Corner, with a display of vintage equipment used in mining, steamwheeler, and timber operations.
Special Events
When planning your visit to Quesnel, check out special events on the tourism website. The city hosts several annual festivals and concerts throughout the year.
Billy Barker Days (July)
My visit this year coincided with the annual Billy Barker Days Festival. This family-friendly four-day event includes a fair with a midway, multiple free stage performances, a parade, street markets, fireworks, a rodeo, and many community events. Start in the park near the Museum and then head into the downtown core to check out the street markets. Local businesses deck out their storefronts, and some locals dress in vintage costumes. Return to the park in the evening for great entertainment, food truck treats, and a festive atmosphere.
Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run (February)
Winter visitors will enjoy the 4-day Sled Dog Mail Run Festival in February. Visitors can participate by having a specialty-designed envelope carried by dogsled. along the historic mail run trails. The festival includes banquets, special musher competitions, and other fun activities. Visit their website to order your envelopes in advance.
Annual Pow Wow (August/September)
One of First Nations peoples' most important traditional social events has always been the Pow Wow. Traditional Pow Wows were social events where the hosting Nation welcomed guests, arranged marriages and treaties, and administered justice. It was also an opportunity to demonstrate wealth, judged by the number of gifts given. During the shameful period of history when the colonial government had a goal to assimilate the First Nations peoples and eradicate their culture, Pow Wows were forbidden. Modern Pow Wows are cherished for the opportunities to gather, dance, sing, socialize, and honour First Nations culture. Check the tourism website for the 2025 dates and events calendar.
Attractions Near Quesnel
Alexander Mackenzie Trail
The first explorer to travel across the continent was Alexander Mackenzie, who was searching for the Northwest Passage. Today, hikers can follow in the footsteps of this early explorer on the Alexander Mackenzie Trail. The entire trail is a 450 km (279 mile) multi-day hike but day hikers can choose to do a smaller section.
Pinnacles Provincial Park
Pinnacles Provincial Park is a year-round day-use and sightseeing area less than 15 minutes from downtown Quesnel. An easy and short trail follows a well-maintained route from the parking lot to the viewpoint area. From the viewpoint, you will get a view of Quesnel and Baker Creek, but the big draw is the unique hoodoo formations.
Barkerville
No trip to this area would be complete without a visit to the historic gold town of Barkerville, located about an hour east of Quesnel. This living museum features costumed interpreters, gold rush-era buildings and businesses, historic Chinatown, theatre performances, restaurants, games, displays, and interactive exhibits. Plan on spending at least two days exploring all the town has to offer. For a more detailed account of what to expect, check out my post about Barkerville here.
Final Thoughts
Quesnel, British Columbia, offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty as a stop on your Cariboo Gold Rush Road Trip. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or in search of a relaxing getaway, Quesnel has something to offer everyone. From exploring the historic gold rush history to hiking through stunning provincial parks, there's no shortage of activities to entertain you.
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I do love Quesnel, although it's been a while since I've been. The bakery is so good, and I do really adore a trip to Barkerville. The museums I would probably want to see again but I think the grizzly viewing has to be top of my list next time I go
Another charming small town with a lot on offer. That doll is definitely haunted and possessed, no doubt about it! I like that you stayed long enough in the area to get to know Quesnel inside out even though it seems pretty small. The insight for Robert Roost Resort being the better facility on the trip is very valuable for road trippers and their planning. Out of the two (from having read your previous post along the Cariboo road) which one is your favourite?
Carolin | <a href="https://solotravelstory.com/">Solo Travel Story</a>
What a neat town to visit! Seems like it has all the history and all the modern day amenities (aka bakery and breweries) to make any traveler happy haha. I don't know much about the gold rush history but would love to visit and learn more. It's interesting that during the great depression they were still growing.
As a history guy, i'm drawn to visitors centers and museums, and this town clearly has an abundance of them! The Fire Hydrant Walking Tour reminds me of when I visited Missoula, MT over the summer with my friend, and seeing the traffic control boxes that have art on them, almost as if they're turned into canvas', it's a really cool idea and definitely adds some color to a sometimes drab downtown. Also, from growing up in a factory town, the houses are all built very similar so it's interesting to see how these gold rush towns are all built as well.
Wow! There are so many things to do here, we'd be spoilt for choice. It's great to learn about the history of the area and some of the characters from that time. We'd definitely want to explore the historic buildings. We'd also enjoy grizzy viewing. It definitely seems to be a foodie town with lots of options for delicious dinners as well as the craft beer. And we'd love to check out those fire hydrants!