As the 2007 winner of the Canadian "Communities in Bloom" – a national competition promoting green spaces in urban settings – Quesnel takes its gardens and city parks seriously, boasting more than 10 major parks, 30 landscaped flower beds and numerous neighbourhood parks. Quesnel gardens and parks often serve as backdrops for community cultural and social events, such as the Petunia Mile Long Ribbon Planting, maintained since the 1960s.
LeBourdais Park
Named after local historian Louis LeBourdais, LeBourdais Park is Quesnel's main city park, and home to the Quesnel & District Museum and Heritage Rose Garden. The most northerly formal civic rose garden in British Columbia, some varieties were originally sent over 100 years ago from England. Spend a day at the park, touring the museum and garden, or picnicking. Families will also enjoy the children's playground and water-spray area. LeBourdais Park is on Legion Drive at the entrance to downtown Quesnel, and borders the Pioneer Cemetery, one of Quesnel's many historic and heritage sites. The Quesnel Visitor Centre is also located at LeBourais Park – stop by for more information about the park and rose garden.
West Fraser Timber Park
West Fraser Timber Park is Quesnel's largest city park, located on Johnson Avenue at the base of Plywood Hill. Enjoy a day at the park exploring the Nature Education Centre (operated by the Baker Creek Enhancement Society), duck pond, heritage garden, or the park's network of hiking trails. The park also features a baseball diamond, lawn bowling facility, playground, and tennis courts.
Ceal Tingley Park/Chuck Beath Memorial Park
Ceal Tingley Park, located at Quesnel's city centre, the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers, has numerous bright flower gardens and shady cottonwoods and evergreens; picnic in the sun or relax in the shade. Ceal Tingley Park is situated at the start of the Riverfront Trail System; take an hour to leisurely stroll along this 5km/3mi paved trail. The park also features a restored antique steam shovel once used by gold miners. Chuck Beath Memorial Park on Highway 97 near the Quesnel River Bridge, serves as the northern entrance point to the Riverfront Trail. The park also has a shady picnic area and ample parking. Get more information on Quesnel's gardens and city parks at the Visitor Centre.