 Overlooking Lillooet from Red Rock, Ian Routley photo
Culture and HistoryExplore Lillooet's First Nations history and culture on a guided tour of a replica Sheesh'kan, or pit house, visiting an active archeological site, or watching demonstrations of traditional fishing along the Fraser River. Return to the height of Gold Rush fever on self-guided walking tour of 14 local historic sites from the period. Hop on the Kaoham Shuttle that winds along the shores of Seton Lake passing many sites of historic significance and usually some wildlife.
Mountain Circle ToursThe Coast Mountain Circle Tour follows the Duffy Lake Road to Vancouver, passing through Whistler, both sites of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. From Vancouver, pass through the Fraser Valley and head up the Fraser Canyon, following the old Cariboo Gold Rush Trail. Moving from desert canyon to coastal rainforest in just a few hours, and through the lush Fraser Valley to the cliffs of the Fraser Canyon, this circle tour demonstrates the diversity of BC's geography and climate.
 The Pavilion Mountain Circle Tour follows some of the Gold Rush Trail, to Pavilion Mountain (elevation 1520m/4987ft), through the Diamond S Cattle Ranch, along the shoreline of Kelly Lake and Downing Provincial Park to Clinton. Head south on Highway 97 to the historic Hat Creek Ranch then east on Highway 99 past the impossibly blue waters of Pavilion Lake. Great swimming in Pavilion and Crown Lakes, and camping in the Marble Canyon Provincial Park are part of this tour.
More Circle ToursThe Duffy Lake/Hurley River Road Circle Tour leads west from Lillooet along man-made Carpenter Lake to Gold Bridge. There head south to Pemberton near Whistler. Turn west then travel north on Duffy Lake Road, returning to the dry desert landscape. This route accesses great snowmobiling, ice climbing, fishing, and rock hunting.
The Fountain Valley Circle Tour leads east from Lillooet on Highway 99, then south to the Fountain Valley. Just 10 minutes outside of Lillooet are the First Nations fishing rocks. Local First Nations people have been using this area for thousands of years to harvest and dry the abundant wild salmon. Tours are offered. Good camping and swimming spots are available at Fountain Lake so plan on stopping for the night. Turn right onto Highway 12, returning to Lillooet.
Jade DepositsStunning Jade boulders mark stopping points along the "Jade Walk" in Lillooet. The area was the site of the first jade mine in the province. In the mid-20th Century more jade was shipped from Lillooet worldwide than from any other place in the world. Budding geologists can find jade and other precious and semi-precious stones on the ground along mountainsides in the canyon.
Where to BeginDrop by Lillooet Visitor Centre (790 Main Street) during the summer season for more information and maps of the area, or during the off-season stop in at the District of Lillooet office (615 Main St.).
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