August 24, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Guest Ranches & Horseback Riding
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On Friday, 3 July 2009, three wagon teams, nine riders, two spare saddle horses and two dogs entered Anahim Lake, intent on attending the 73rd Annual Anahim Lake Stampede. And attend we did, enjoying to the fullest all of the rodeo events, and participating enthusiastically in the daily, $10.00, all-you-can-eat, BBQ suppers, and the Saturday night, Stampede dance. Led by Dale and Yvonne Dunn of the Blackwater Spruce Ranch, we rode and drove for 10 days, from Titetown Lake west of Quesnel, via the Alexander Mackenzie Heritage Trail and the old wagon road along which Pan Phillips drove his cattle to the Quesnel stockyards. Enroute we visited the Pan Phillips Fishing Camp, operated now by Robbie and Linda Phillips, and camped overnight at the long-deserted Home Ranch. The adventures that we enjoyed on the trail were surpassed only by the warm welcome and hospitality that we received at Anahim Lake. Our group camped on the property of Frank and Betty Ayres, who very generously hosted us for the three days of our visit. However, members of our support team, who brought much needed supplies for the return trip, found very comfortable accommodation in Anahim Lake motels. Everything written on the Tourism BC website regarding the desirability of the Anahim Lake Stampede as an adventure destination spot can be taken as gospel. It also puts you within easy striking distance of Bella Coola, another location well worth a visit. On Monday, 6 July we turned our horses' noses eastward, and nine days later arrived from whence we came, Titetown Lake. Another great BC adventure!!