Lillooet
Lillooet Golf Course, Rosemary Smart photo
The town of Lillooet (population: 2,324) is spread along a grassy bench of land overlooking the mighty Fraser River and set against a backdrop of the Coast Mountains – a varied terrain ideal for fishing, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and ice climbing. The abundant surrounding wilderness also provides incredible wildlife viewing and bird watching. Lillooet's spectacular geography is accompanied by a rich culture and history experienced today at heritage sites and on cultural tours.
Culture and History
Explore Lillooet's First Nations history and culture on a guided cultural 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, or browse through artifacts and stories at the Lillooet Museum. Hop on the Kaoham Shuttle that winds along the shores of Seton Lake passing many sites of historic significance and usually some wildlife.
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Driving Routes
Pass through the Fraser Canyon and follow the old Cariboo Gold Rush Trail. Travel from desert canyon to coastal rainforest in just a few hours. Driving routes in the Lillooet region include the Coast Mountain Circle Route, which follows the Duffey Lake Road to Vancouver and Whistler, along with smaller loops. The Pavilion Mountain loop, Duffey Lake/Hurley River Road loop and Fountain Valley loop are shorter driving routes that lead to great local lakes and parks.
Jade Deposits
Stunning 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 Begin
Drop by Lillooet Visitor Centre (790 Main St) 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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