Williams Lake

A dramatic canyon of limestone walls framing the Chilcotin River and surrounded by rolling grassland. This semi-arid canyon also boasts a large sand dune at its crest, and ancient pictographs on the cliff face.

A restored BC Rail Station provides studio and gallery space. Each month, the gallery exhibits a variety of contemporary works in many mediums by local, regional, and touring artists. The society also operates a gift shop that features the work of local artisans and crafts people.

Its collection of nearly 30,000 artifacts offers a glimpse into the Central Cariboo's history and is home to the BC Cowboy Hall of Fame. It has the largest saddle collection in western Canada, and artifacts relating to the Williams Lake rodeo and the local First Nations.

Takes place on the Canada Day (July 1) weekend and attracts top professional cowboys from across Canada and the United States. Events include bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping and chuckwagon races. The Williams Lake Stampede plays host to many top cowboys and international rodeo competitors from Canada and the United States, most of which continue on the circuit to the Calgary Stampede, the following weekend. The Stampede festivities also include a parade of floats from local organizations, such as 4-H groups, First Nations bands, community service groups, the stampede royalty and local merchants. There is also a carnival with rides and games located near the stampede grounds.

A 9.7-ha (23.9-acre) park and nature area. It has of a beach, picnic area, boat launch and several trails through mainly natural environment. Scout Island is actually two islands that are connected to the west end of Williams Lake by a causeway. The Nature House provides a view of the marsh next to the island. It is run by the Williams Lake Field Naturalists and provides information, displays and programs dealing with the local environment. 2.5 km of trails following the marsh edge and lake. Some trails and the Nature House are wheelchair accessible. Dogs must be on leash.

Lots to see and a good open trail with lots of small bridges that enable the creek crossing as it meanders back and forth down the valley. Access from the parking area at the foot of Comer St and Mackenzie Ave for 12 km each way, or from the Frizzy Road parking lot for only 5 km to Fraser River.