 Big Bar Lake, Roland Stanke photo
Big Bar Lake Provincial Park Located in typical Cariboo Chilcotin Coast ranching country, the 330ha/825ac of Big Bar Provincial Park is home to the 4.8km/3mi-long Big Bar Lake, in addition to numerous small lakes and ponds. The extensive plateau that forms a large portion of the park was formed from ancient lava flows. Enjoy fishing for Rainbow trout in Big Bar Lake, or explore the scenic wetlands on the 4km/2.5mi hiking trail where various wildlife species are frequently viewed. Lakeside campsites (accommodation) provide a perfect base from which to enjoy the surrounding attractions.
Chasm Provincial Park Be sure to pack a camera to capture the incredible geology of Chasm Provincial Park. The park's Painted Chasm – rock layers of red, brown, yellow, and purple, created by ancient lava flows and revealed through continuous erosion – illustrate the rich geological history of the Chasm Creek Valley and the Bonaparte River Valley. As well, an esker, or ridge of gravel molded by glaciers stretches 40km/25mi upstream. Chasm Provincial Park was enlarged in 1995 to 3,067ha/7700ac to protect more of the Painted Chasm and surrounding ponderosa pine forests. There is no camping at the park, but hiking and horseback riding are available. However, keep in mind that trails are not patrolled and can be tricky.
Marble Range Provincial Park  Marble Range Provincial Park, at 17,920ha/44800ac, is renowned for wildlife, as it protects populations of California Bighorn sheep and Mule deer. The park features alpine and sub-alpine regions with caves, sinkholes, and disappearing streams, as well as cliffs, chasms, and crenellated ridges. Marble Range Provincial Park received its name because of its unusual limestone karst topography, which can be viewed from high in the alpine, where rare plants, old-growth Douglas-fir, spruce, lodgepole pine, and whitebark pine thrive. Hiking Marble Range requires an advanced level of experience, and hikers are advised to carry a topographic map, and a compass or GPS unit. Binoculars and telephoto lenses are a good idea for wildlife viewing. Check with Visitors Centre for more information on provincial parks, as well as detailed maps of Clinton and the surrounding area.
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