 Warner Lake
Green spaces near cities are easy to find. In Quesnel, try Ceal Tingley Park for flowers and the start of the Riverfront Trail System, or LeBourdais Park for roses and friendly locals. Williams Lake's Boitanio Park has a rolling landscape, while Scout Island is a nature sanctuary just minutes from downtown.
In the South Cariboo, Lillooet's Hangman’s Tree Park has a unique history (with remnants still on-site). Centennial Park in 100 Mile House features a nice waterfall and an overnight campground for real park enthusiasts.
And on the coast, Bella Coola's Clayton Falls Recreation Site makes the perfect scenic stopping point before or after a long drive.
Gardens and City Parks in South and Central Cariboo  Just east of downtown 100 Mile House, Centennial Park spreads across 12ha/30ac. Snack in the picnic area or expend energy on the playground, tennis courts, or walking trails. Don’t miss the trail leading to pretty Bridge Creek Falls. A campground allows for overnight visits.
In Williams Lake, Boitanio Park is a 17-ha/42-ac stretch of greenspace in the middle of the city. Manicured lawns, fir forests, and gently rolling landspaces provide places to play or relax. Looking for a nice backdrop? Try the rose gardens, popular with recently wed couples for photos.
Hangman’s Tree Park in Lillooet has quite the history. Rumour has it that more than 100 years ago, eight people met their demise via hanging in this park – the hangman’s tree has since fallen over, but still rests on-site. Nearby, large rock piles are reminders of the Chinese miners who searched for gold. Enjoy a picnic in this park and contemplate gold rush history.
For another nice picnic site in Lillooet, head to the nearby Naxwit picnic area – look for mountain goats on the rock bluffs or watch salmon spawn in the Seton River (every odd year).
Gardens and City Parks in Quesnel Quesnel is blessed with a number of city parks within the city limits. Ceal Tingley Park is located at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers, and is the starting point of the 5-km/3-mi Riverfront Trail System. Stroll through colourful flower gardens or doze under the shade of cottonwood trees. An antique steam shovel recalls the area’s gold mine history.
LeBourdais Park is Quensel's main city park. It’s a great place for local information, as it’s home to both the Visitor Centre and the Quesnel Museum. Stop and smell the roses at BC’s most northerly civic rose garden, release the kids to play in the water park, or investigate the neighboring Pioneer Cemetery.
Nature Park in Williams LakeScout Island is a nature sanctuary in Williams Lake that acts as home for a wide variety of birds and small wildlife. Trails wind through the park’s delicate marshland, and a Nature House provides a chance to learn about the island’s local residents. Soak in sunshine at the sandy beach, jump in the water for a swim, or pack a lunch for the picnic grounds.
Waterfall Park and Picnic Area in Bella CoolaWhile in the Bella Coola region on the coast, make sure to stop by Clayton Falls Recreation Site. The highlight for most visitors are the falls, which gently tumble over well-worn, smooth rocks. This is an excellent place to stop and stretch after a long drive or just to enjoy the view of the inlet.
|