Princeton (British Columbia)

The Pollard wing houses one of the most extensive mineral and fossil collections in British Columbia. The museum also contains an extensive collection of documents and artifacts which tell the story of Princeton's historical significance.

Hiking, biking and cross-country ski trail. This spectacular portion of the Kettle Valley Railway bed runs through the valley of the Tulameen River, with plenty of birds, flowers, mammals and minerals to view. It is feasible year round. It runs from Princeton or Coalmont, about 18 km. The hike proceeds through the tunnel which goes underneath the ridge which separates the Tulameen and Similkameen Rivers just before they join. This tunnel is over a 1,000 ft (300 m) long. After the tunnel, a bridge takes you to the north shore of the Tulameen River. After about 1½ km, you will see on your right the red ochre cliffs which provided some of the vermilion for the rock paintings and war paint of the Similkameen First Nations, and for the name given the early community of Vermillion Forks. After another kilometre, you can view on your right the fantastic shapes of hoodoos, stone pillars which have been shaped by erosion of wind and water.

Located on Bear Mountain, it offers classic cross-country ski trails for all skill levels and are well maintained.

This popular swimming hole is a refreshing break on a hot Interior afternoon's drive. Buy a take out meal in Princeton and eat it on the sandy beach along the Similkameen River. In late July and early August, the water is warm and clean. For the brave-hearted, join the locals climbing the rock and diving into the deep pool below. Fishing is good upstream from the picnic area in spring.

Located on the west side of Otter Lake, the park has a campground, boat launch on to Otter Lake, and some short walking trails. Outside of the park, along the east side of the lake, is a portion of the Kettle Valley Trail, which can be accessed toward the north and from the south end of the lake.