5 Friendly Stops Along the Yellowhead Highway from Kamloops to Wells Gray
Julie Kimmel, Rural Economic Recovery Coordinator for the Thompson Region, shares her favorite stops along the Yellowhead Highway between Kamloops and Wells Gray Provincial Park.
If you have ever traveled the Yellowhead Highway between Kamloops and Wells Gray Provincial Park, you will already be familiar with the spectacular views, hiking trails and abundant wildlife found along that stretch of highway. Equally impressive are some destinations along the way that land on the ‘you need to check this out’ list.
First up is McLure, a 30-minute drive from Kamloops and a popular spot for hiking and best known for two things: the McLure Reaction Ferry and Carl’s Market Garden & Fruit Stand. Carl’s Market Garden & Fruit Stand is a roadside staple that operates seasonally from June through October and is a popular destination for locals and a must-stop for visitors. Celebrated as having the best seasonal selection with the friendliest staff, you will find a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as locally produced jams, infused oils, syrups, honey, and other tasty treats.
-Destination BC/Andrew Strain - McLure
A short 10-minutes down the highway from McLure, and just 5 minutes from Barriere, is the unincorporated settlement of Louis Creek located at the mouth of Louis Creek on the North Thompson River. Don’t blink because you definitely don’t want to miss The Local of Louis Creek Artisan Market!
There are moments in time when the stars seem to align and if you ask owner, Cari Crawford, it is one of those rare occurrences that brought The Local of Louis Creek into existence. Borne out of the chaos and uncertainty of the pandemic and her own restlessness, The Local, as it is affectionately known, opened in 2021 but Cari will tell you that looking back, one of the inspirations for it can be traced back decades.
Cari grew up in Louis Creek and is the daughter of entrepreneurial parents who owned the local post office and general store. In the 1990’s, Cari’s father, Rob Rutten, retired the general store and opened a convenience store and fruit stand on the property. Eventually he converted the old general store into a place to sell antiques and collectibles. And although Rob knew nothing of antiques and collectibles at the time, he had a passion for workmanship, learning and collecting objects and wanted to create a place where others could share in that passion too. The store was beloved in the community and well supported. Sadly, it burned to the ground during the 2003, but was rebuilt in 2005.
-Julie Kimmel
Amid the pandemic, like a lot of people, Cari started to question what she wanted to do next in her life. She gave her all to her teaching profession, but it no longer fulfilled her as it once had. So, she left her profession, sold her home in Kamloops and on July 1, 2021, opened The Local of Louis Creek Artisan Market in her dad’s old store.
As the name suggests, The Local is a place for all to feel welcome. A relaxed, inviting environment where people come to browse and feel delight in finding unique items. Cari sources local artisan products, hires staff from the local area, and explores alternative ideas like upcycling and repurposed items. Her father’s legacy also lives on at The Local with the inclusion of antiques and his involvement with the buying and selling of them. Cari loves seeing the happy faces of customers when they find that special item and in the smiles of artists when their work is appreciated and purchased.
Cari has big plans for The Local moving forward. She will continue to support the community through fund raising initiatives, and she is always looking for ways to connect with locals and visitors alike. She is also passionate about supporting local artisans. When you cross the threshold of The Local of Louis Creek, you will sense both the past of the old antique store and the future of Cari’s dynamic entrepreneurial vision.
About six kilometers past Louis Creek, The North Thompson Museum, located in Barriere, opened in 1987 and is operated by the Barriere and District Heritage Society. The museum houses artifacts, archival records, and historical reference material relating to Barriere and the North Thompson region. The area is home to the Simpcw First Nations, and is teeming with history. It is believed that the name Barriere was thought of by French fur traders in 1928 and refers to rocks in the river making the crossing difficult at different times of the year. Hence a ‘barrier’ in the river or, as they say in French, barrière.
-Julie Kimmel
Half-way between Barriere and Clearwater is the community of Little Fort and home to Jim’s Food Markets, which includes a convenience store, Subway restaurant, and Husky gas station. This family-run enterprise celebrated one hundred years in business in 2019.
The legacy of the store began in 1918 when Jim Young Fat and Kam Kee Jim bought a hotel in Little Fort that burned down one year later. Out of the ashes, a new store was built in its place near the still operational ferry, The Jim Man Lee Store. And with it, a 10-acre garden and dairy farm to supply the store with fresh goods.
Operation of the family business has passed down through the generations and different variations of the store have evolved with the town. In the 1970’s it morphed from a grocery store to a convenience store. In the 1980’s a gas station was added – first Texaco then Shell and today it is a Husky station.
Today, Kym Jim, son of Gung Loy Jim and grandson of Jim Young Fat, stands proud of his family’s legacy. Stop in for a top up of food, gas or convenience items and be part of the evolving history with the Jim family.
-Allen Jones
Just 20-more minutes down the highway you will arrive in Clearwater, BC, the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park and the home of Wild Flour Bakery and Cafe, your soon-to-be favourite hangout in town.
Dreams do come true. Or at least they did for Kris Olson, owner of Wild Flour Café and Bakery. Long before opening this cozy café, Kris spent her childhood in Clearwater, immersed in the natural splendor that only a place like Clearwater can provide.
-Holly Louwerse Photography
After moving away for school, and throughout her travels, Kris began develop a bit of an obsession with bread. Not just any bread. Really good bread. The kind of bread that can only be made with equal parts of ancient grains, wholesome ingredients, and a lot of love. The kind of bread that is so good that you have to close your eyes just so you could savor it that little bit more.
Upon returning to Clearwater from school and her travels, Kris purchased a grain mill and began selling bread at the local market. Kris’ reputation at the market grew rapidly and with each passing week she would have to increase her inventory to satisfy the growing demand. Each passing market season brought new customers, a broader reputation and increased demand for her products from locals and visitors alike.
As her market success grew, a new vision took hold. Kris had a dream of creating a bakery. The kind of place that served delectable baked goods and breads made with the finest ingredients and ancient grains. A gathering place that invited people to stay, mingle, and enjoy the atmosphere and home cooked food. And a place, like Clearwater itself, that would become a beacon of connection for the community.
-Holly Louwerse Photography
In June 2019, Kris opened the Wild Flour Café and made her vision come to life. The aroma of freshly baked bread, strong coffee, and friendly staff invites you to stay as long as you would like. Whether you are looking for desserts, soups, or sandwiches, the Wild Flour Café is indeed a place that invites you to return to again and again.
Yes, the Yellowhead Highway between Kamloops and Clearwater, BC, is a special 123-kilometer stretch of highway filled with beautiful vistas, natural escapes, quaint towns, and visionary entrepreneurs who are creating special destination spots. Whether it is a first time to the area or a well-travelled route, there is always a friendly face to welcome you and something new to explore.
Written by Julie Kimmel bio - Rural Economic Recovery Coordinator Thompson Region
A passionate entrepreneur, avid outdoor enthusiast and small business advocate, Julie is currently contracted by Community Futures Thompson Country in a role funded by ETSI-BC to work with SME’s and Economic Development in rural communities throughout the Thompson Country region.
Fall in the Northern Part of the Thompson Okanagan
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in the Thompson Okanagan. Plan a fall vacation or staycation in the Northern part of the Thompson Okanagan.
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in the Thompson Okanagan, with the scenery changing from luscious greens to golden reds and yellows, rivers filling with bright red spawning salmon, and harvesting beginning in the vineyards and orchards throughout the region.
North Thompson
As temperatures begin to drop in the North Thompson, pull out your cozy sweaters and get out to explore Wells Gray Provincial Park in Clearwater. There, you will be surrounded by the colour changing forest that encloses 41 waterfalls. One being the 4th largest in Canada, Helmcken Falls.
Stay at the cozy Helmcken Falls Lodge nestled at the entrance of Wells Gray Provincial Park. This accommodation is a rustic family-run Wilderness Lodge that is sure to offer you an intimate, friendly & warm stay.
If you are visiting further north in Valemount, be sure to go check out the spawning Salmon at the viewing platform at George Hicks Regional Park or Rearguard Falls. These two locations offer a bird’s eye view to the red salmon fighting to swim up the river.
After a long day of Salmon watching, stop at a log cabin, Caribou Grill, for dinner and enjoy a delicious meal made of local ingredients.
South Thompson
Drive through the quaint towns of Logan Lake and 100 Mile where rolling hills covered in fall colours will be your surroundings. Celebrate the bountiful goodness of the fall season by exploring the Sun Peaks market that runs until October 10th. There, you will find live music and products from local farmers, ranchers, and artisans.
The water temperature in the rivers and lakes may be beginning to cool down, but that doesn’t mean the fish will have stopped biting. Fly fishing in one of the many lakes and rivers surrounding Kamloops is very popular in the fall. 6 Mile, Jacko, and Edith are all known for their Rainbow Trout and are located just 30 minutes outside of Kamloops. Edith has an overnight campsite on the lake and the other two are for day use only.
If you prefer the city, spend your day exploring the shops in downtown Kamloops. While there, gain a new appreciation for the town’s history and culture by taking one of the many walking tours. End the day with a warm meal at the Noble Pig where delicious beer is paired with fresh flavourful food sourced from local ingredients.
If you’re looking for a place to spend the night or the weekend, be sure to stay at the South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre. At one time this land housed a Thoroughbred Racing Stable, now this 55 scenic acre property offers a peaceful riverfront stay to its guests at the inn.
Gold Country
Begin your day at the Kekuli Cafe in Merritt where you can enjoy fresh Bannock and Indigenous-inspired cuisine. Once your appetite has been satisfied, take a drive to the Harmon Lake Forest Interpretive Trail Area. This 2.7 km forest interpretive trail is located on the southeast side of Harmon Lake. The trail is surrounded by a beautiful forest with detailed signs throughout that explain how all components of the forest interact.
If birds are your passion, Beaver Ranch is located approximately 35km north of Hwy. 5A and offers a great place to bird-watch. There are close to 200 different species of birds in the area including Williamson's Sapsuckers, Common Snipes, Great Blue Herons, Osprey, and more!
The town of Merritt has lots to see and do in the fall including the Nicolas Valley Museum & Archives and the Country Legends Murals located throughout town featuring country music stars, most of whom have performed in Merritt.
Stay Douglas Lake Ranch for an authentic country experience. It is the oldest working cattle ranch in Canada, where you can take a pre-arranged tour and/or stay at the many options of accommodations throughout the property for a vacation of fly fishing or a family holiday away from the city. This ranch is known for its still-water fly fishing with a property that is composed of 12 lakes stocked with Rainbow Trout.
About Jenna Labossiere
Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. As a Brand Ambassador for the Thompson Okanagan region, she hopes to be able to showcase the region’s local businesses and natural attractions in order to encourage others to take the opportunity to enjoy.
Road Trip from the South to the North Thompson
There is nothing quite like a summer road trip, especially one from the South Okanagan through to the beautiful, untamed wilderness of the North Thompson en route to the Canadian Rockies. Begin on Route 97 in Kamloops, then take Highway 5, known as the Yellowhead Highway, North to end in Valemount. Take your time along this route and enjoy the charming town along the way.
There is nothing quite like a summer road trip, especially one from the South Thompson through to the beautiful, untamed wilderness of the North Thompson en route to the Canadian Rockies. Begin on Route 97 in Kamloops, then take Highway 5, known as the Yellowhead Highway, North to end in Valemount. Take your time along this simple route and enjoy the charming towns along the way.
Kamloops
Begin your road trip in the South Thompson, in Kamloops BC. Situated at the junction of the North and South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops is surrounded by 100 freshwater lakes within an hour’s drive, and 82 parks. Stop by the Concession in downtown Kamloops to get some snacks and get out on the Thompson River with a Kayak or Water Bike. After a day on the water, take a walk through Kamloop’s Back Alley Art Gallery and then stop for a brew and a bite to eat at Bright Eye Brewing.
For a nice place to rest your head, stay at the Best Western Plus Kamloops. They are a Biosphere committed company and have equipped their hotel with a geothermal heat/cooling system.
Kamloops - Photo: @landos.photos
Bright Eye Brewing - Photo: Destination BC/Nathan Martin
Kenna Cartwright Park, Kamloops - Photo: Destination BC/Andrew Strain
Barriere
Take Highway 5, or Yellowhead Highway, 45 minutes into North Thompson, to Barriere. Here, you will find rolling hills filled with ranch land surrounded by beautiful mountains. Barriere is laid back and the perfect place for you to relax by the lake or play a round of 9 hole golf at Chinook Cove Golf Course. If you would like to explore the trails, horseback riding is one of the most popular ways to do so in this town. Double Star Ranch is a great place to go for guided trail rides.
Spend the night at the East Barriere Lake recreation site, where you can swim and fish. If you didn’t bring your camping gear, stay at the Monte Carlo Motel located right in the center of Barriere.
Johnson Lake, Barriere - Photo: @thegreatgoldsky.and.thepittie
Barriere - Photo: @thaliacristina
South Barriere Lake - Photo: @phallies
Clearwater & Wells Gray
Continue 40 minutes up Highway 5 to the largest city in North Thompson, Clearwater. Not only is clear water known for its wildlife, but for lying at the entrance of Wells Gray Park, or Canada’s Waterfall Park. Home to 41 named waterfalls, Wells Gray is composed of 5,250 square kilometres (3,262 square miles) of wilderness. Although all the waterfalls in the park are incredible, be sure to stop and see the fourth largest waterfall in Canada cascading 462.6ft to the canyon below, Helmcken Falls.
If hiking and mountain biking aren’t your idea of a vacation, enjoy sports fishing or fly fishing in one of the many freshwater sources in the area. Osprey Falls, a waterfall measuring 1200ft across is an excellent place to fly fish.
Spend the night, or a few, at the Alpine Meadows Resort, a vacation all in itself. Their secluded location brings you the peacefulness and adventure of the outdoors.
Helmcken Falls - Photo: Destination BC/Max Zeddler
Dawson Falls - Photo: Destination BC/Andrew Strain
Clearwater - Photo: Allen Jones
Blue River
About an hour up Highway 5 you will find Blue River. Blue River is located right next to Murtle Lake, North America’s largest paddle only lake. This lake has over 100km of shoreline to be explored split between a West and North arm. The west arm is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, while the North arm is a great place to admire the mountains and observe wildlife. If you don’t have a canoe, rent one from Murtle Lake Canoe Rentals.
Blue River sits at the northern-most reaches of the lush, temperate inland rainforest. This unique climate offers the perfect home to many species of wildlife. Keep a watchful eye on the road and by the river for Grizzly Bears, Caribou, Moose, Elk, and unique species of birds. Remember while observing these animals in their own homes to give them space and be respectful.
Spend the night at Bone Creek Wilderness Retreat where they have cabins and campsites for you to enjoy.
Blue River - Photo: Allen Jones
Blue River - Photo: @mikewiegeleheli
Murtle Lake - Photo: @axelbodyspray
Valemount
Another hour along Highway 5 and you will arrive at the final stop on your North Thompson road trip, Valemount. Here, you will find the perfect terrain for all the extreme sports you could ever dream of from mountain biking, whitewater rafting, to multi-day hikes. If you would prefer to take it slow and enjoy the scenery, rent a paddleboard and explore the many lakes in the area.
Valemount is home to Mount Robson Provincial Park. Mt Robson is the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies and offers an incredible view during the multi or single day hike along the Berg Lake Trail (Closed for the 2022 season) or the 22km trail along the Selwyn Traverse Trail. If you don’t have time or the capacity to hike the Berg Lake trail, why not fly? Robson Heli Magic Inc. will fly you to the end of the Berg Lake trail where you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area and Mt Robson towering over you.
Mount Robson - Photo: @wide.open.world
Emperor Falls - Photo: @marknabia
Turducken Mountain Biking Trail - Photo: @dbcvalemount
Whether you are looking for a thrilling adventure, calm leisurely getaway, or that perfect Instagram photo, you will be able to find all that and more on a road trip from the South Thompson to North Thompson.
Be sure to plan ahead before departing on your road trip and do your research before visiting any of these areas to ensure businesses are operating and ready to welcome guests.
About Jenna Labossiere
Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. As a Brand Ambassador for the Thompson Okanagan region, she hopes to be able to showcase the region’s local businesses and natural attractions in order to encourage others to take the opportunity to enjoy.
B.C. Parks You Don't Want To Miss
There are so many provincial parks within our region, it can be hard to decide which ones to visit first. Here are few great options of parks to add to your bucket list this year.
Spring has Sprung in the Thompson Okanagan which means it’s time to pull out our camping gear. With the Thompson Okanagan region being 71, 600 km² / 27,644 mi², there is no shortage of beautiful provincial parks and natural attractions to explore.
Whether you’re spending the day or a few nights in a tent, trailer, or under the stars, there is no better way to escape the city than to enjoy the calming beauty of the region’s diverse nature and wildlife. While exploring, be mindful of the trace you are leaving behind. Sticking to the trails, cleaning up after yourself, and giving wildlife their space are just a few simple and sustainable practices that will go a long way.
There are so many provincial parks within our region, it can be hard to decide which ones to visit first. Here are few great parks to add to your bucket list this year. Remember to respect travel restrictions and find parks to explore within your community.
Overnight Campers
Boundary Creek Provincial Park
This park is located along the Kettle River offering 16 spaced out and well covered campsites. These campsites are run on a first-come, first-served basis. Enjoy cycling, fishing, and walking the trails. While out walking see if you can spot the remainders of the B.C. Copper Company smelter that once employed 400 men from 1901 to 1918.
The park is accessible to all, has running water, and can accommodate larger RV’s.
Provincial Park Entry Sign - Photo by B.C. Parks
Boundary Creek - Photo by B.C. Parks
Jewel Lake Provincial Park
Jewel Lake Provincial Park is a hidden gem within Boundary Country. It offers a chance for visitors to immerse themselves in nature, along the 3km lake and the dense surrounding forest. Here, you can fly fish for trout, swim, cycle, and canoe.
While not suitable for fifth wheels and RV’s, there are 26 vehicle-accessible campsites. This park is accessible to all.
Campsite at Jewel Lake - Photo by B.C. Parks
Picnic tables on the Shoreline - Photo by B.C. Parks
Silver Beach Provincial Park
Silver Beach Provincial Park is located on the north end of the Seymour Arm of Shuswap Lake. This is the site of a historical gold rush town called Ogden City (now called Seymour Arm). Along with its beautiful fir trees, there are sandy beaches on the banks of the lake. Here, you can enjoy your time next to the water or in it, doing water sports, swimming, house-bating, and fishing for over 19 different species of fish.
The park is accessible to all and has pit toilets, it can be accessed by boat or car.
Silver Beach is operated by Silvertip Park Services Ltd.
Email: parkinquiries@telus.net
Phone: 250 320-9305
Green Marsh and Shoreline of Silver Beach - Photo by B.C. Parks
Overhead view of the Lake and Beach - Photo by B.C. Parks
Bridge Lake
With a small campground located on the south end of the lake, near the Bridge Lake community, this park protects a large amount of untouched shoreline. It is a great place to catch a glimpse of many species like the river otter, black bear, fox, bald eagle, etc. Horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and canoeing are all popular activities here.
The park is accessible to all with no running water and is only accommodating to tents.
The lake in the evening - Photo by @jeannie_haller
The lake behind beautiful trees - Photo by @adeley_bean
Daytime Visitors
Christina Lake Provincial Park
If you are looking to spend the day by the water where you can picnic, swim, fish, and maybe even water ski, then you should check out Christina Lake Provincial Park. With 350 meters of sandy beaches, a lake with a reputation of being the warmest in Canada, and over 200 vehicle parking spots, this location is the perfect place to spend a sunny day.
The park is accessible to all and has plenty of trees to offer a shady spot to escape the sun.
Pathway to the picnic area on the beach - Photo by B.C. Parks
The view of the Christina Lake - Photo by B.C. Parks
Boothman’s Oxbow Provincial Park
Surrounded by the rare riparian black cottonwood tree, grasslands, and wildlife, this park is the perfect place to enjoy a nature walk and a picnic. Swimming, angling (a style of fishing), kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching are all favourite activities here. Grab your fishing gear along with a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day on the lake.
The lake with a mountain background - Photo by @kristarobertsgeary
All of the provincial parks above welcome your furry friends to tag along with you, just be sure they are on a leash when they do.
Once again while travel restrictions are still in effect, we encourage you to explore B.C. Provincial Parks within your community. Sometimes the greatest sights are just outside our door.
Written by Jenna Labossiere
Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. As a Brand Ambassador for the Thompson Okanagan region, she hopes to be able to showcase the region’s local businesses and natural attractions in order to encourage others to take the opportunity to enjoy.