 Isaac Lake, Bowron Lake Provincial Park
Chasm Provincial Park
Formed by volcanic activity and carved by ancient glacial meltwaters, the park's namesake chasm is approximately eight km (5 mi) long, 600 m (1,970 ft) wide and 300 m (985 ft) deep. It was created 10,000 years ago -at the end of the last ice age- when water from the melting glaciers carried so much silt that it carved a great abyss. Today, the area offers a brilliant display of red, brown, orange, pink and purple colours set in the steep, lava-layered canyon walls.
Some 3,067 ha (7,579 ac) protect the area's rich geological formations, including stands of ponderosa pine forest as well as diverse, low-elevation lakes and marshes. You can follow old roads on an informal hiking trail through the park's spectacular setting. Exercise caution: Chasm has many steep cliffs and fences are provided only near the parking area and lookout. Look for Bighorn Sheep along the canyon walls. Keep an eye out for Moose, Mule Deer, Black Bears and Coyotes as well.
Chasm is located about a 20-minute drive north from Clinton, off Highway 97.
> Chasm Park website
Farwell Canyon
Cut from the Chilcotin River and carved by time, Farwell Canyon provides an unforgettable experience. The canyon is surrounded by ancient, pillar-like sandstone formations called hoodoos. Look for ancient pictographs. Atop the canyon you'll view one of the largest shifting sand dunes in Canada - an awesome sight.
A 45-minute (each way) trail brings you to the sand dunes. Climb them for an amazing view of Farwell Canyon. Keep an eye out for prickly pear cactuses, which can make walking difficult; proper footwear is essential. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from blowing sand.
In spring, Bighorn Sheep are often seen roaming the area and, in fall, watch First Nations fishers climb the canyon walls to dip net for salmon.
Farwell Canyon is found off Highway 20 on Farwell Canyon Road, a one-hour drive southwest from Williams Lake.
Pinnacles Provincial Park
Pinnacles encompasses 128 ha (316 ac) of pine forest overlooking Baker Creek. From the Pinnacles viewpoint, you'll see a unique formation of hoodoos -ancient, pillar-like sandstone formations- as well as a top-of-the-world view of the city of Quesnel.
An easy one-km (0.6-mi) hike along a well-maintained trail brings you to the viewpoint. Plan on a 15-minute walk to reach it. The park is open year round for day use and sightseeing.
Pinnacles Provincial Park is a 15-minute drive west from Quesnel. The park can be accessed via Pinnacles Road, off Highway 97.
> Pinnacles Park website
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