Located in British Columbia's interior, this beautiful city is the hub and service centre for the ranches in the Cariboo and Chilcotin region. Even in modern times, Williams Lake still retains a frontier town appearance. It is home to the famous Williams Lake Stampede, which is one of the largest shows in North America. Every Canada Day weekend (July 1st), this venue attracts local and international contestants who compete in events such as the Pony Chariot Races, Wild Cow Milking and Cattle Penning. Visitors from all over are guaranteed a great Wild West Show. During the Stampede event, businesses decorate their storefronts with false facades and turn their store interiors back to that of the early 19th century. The townspeople dress in western garb in order to get into the spirit of the "Old West".Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin
This museum is the only one in British Columbia dedicated to the preservation and promotion of ranching. This industry has deep roots of over two centuries and the exhibits honour the cowboys and cattlemen of the past and present. The BC Cowboy Hall of Fame features pictures, biographies and artifacts of the province's famous cowboys. Visitors can also see displays on rodeo and ranching. This museum also features the artwork, crafts, music and writings reflective of the cowboy culture. The gift shop has many unique items for sale. Pacific Great Eastern Railway Station
Built in 1919, this is one of the city's oldest buildings. Up until last year, this was the terminal for BC Rail passenger service. The Station House Art Gallery displays the works of local artists and touring exhibitors. Xats'ull Heritage Village
A one-day cultural program allows visitors to learn about the Native peoples of the Shuswap area. The village is over 4,000 years old. The program includes a tour of the village, workshops on tool making, basket making, traditional meal preparation and story telling. Scout Island Nature Centre
Located on the shores of Williams Lake, this is a perfect place to view shorebirds and waterfowl on the wetland marsh. There is a boat launch where guests can paddle around the island and marsh areas. Some of the wildlife native to this area is Trumpeter Swans, Green-backed Herons and Anise Swallowtails.
Williams Lake is 348 miles (540 km) north of Vancouver and 148 miles (238 km) south of Prince George on Highway 97. Travelers, who wish to drive to Bella Coola, on the coast, must go to Williams Lake in order to turn on to Highway 20. Here is a map of the Williams Lake district.
Points of Interest
This museum is the only one in British Columbia dedicated to the preservation and promotion of ranching. This industry has deep roots of over two centuries and the exhibits honour the cowboys and cattlemen of the past and present. The BC Cowboy Hall of Fame features pictures, biographies and artifacts of the province's famous cowboys. Visitors can also see displays on rodeo and ranching. This museum also features the artwork, crafts, music and writings reflective of the cowboy culture. The gift shop has many unique items for sale.
Built in 1919, this is one of the city's oldest buildings. Up until last year, this was the terminal for BC Rail passenger service. The Station House Art Gallery displays the works of local artists and touring exhibitors.
A one-day cultural program allows visitors to learn about the Native peoples of the Shuswap area. The village is over 4,000 years old. The program includes a tour of the village, workshops on tool making, basket making, traditional meal preparation and story telling.
Located on the shores of Williams Lake, this is a perfect place to view shorebirds and waterfowl on the wetland marsh. There is a boat launch where guests can paddle around the island and marsh areas. Some of the wildlife native to this area is Trumpeter Swans, Green-backed Herons and Anise Swallowtails.
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