Things To Do

Every year, the tiny community of Wells is visited by more than 10,000 RVers, campers and motorists from around the globe.

Visitors come to canoe the chain of lakes in Bowron Lake Provincial Park, to explore Barkerville Historic Town and other historic sites of the Cariboo gold rush days, and to visit many unique galleries and the artists who own them.

And while Bowron Lake Provincial Park, Barkerville and gold rush history are of vital importance to this community, there is more! The mountains surrounding the town are laced with hundreds of miles of trails that attract hikers in the summer, and skiers and snowmobilers in the winter time.

In addition, there is a vibrant community life which goes on throughout the year and many festivals and events are held here.

Land Activities

Barkerville Historic Town, 8km/5mi beyond Wells on Highway 26, has been realistically restored to its former glory as a boomtown of the Cariboo gold fields. It is one of Canada's premier heritage sites. During summer, more than 120 buildings are staffed by professional actors and actresses, who recreate the history of the town as it was during 100 years of gold rush history. Live street theatre, stage coach rides and a working blacksmith shop are just some of the activities offered in this remarkable town.

Learn more about Wells' heritage sites, or enjoy strolling through the restored town while following the historic sites walking tour. Visit the unique galleries and shops. Hike some of the 300km/188mi-plus hiking and multi-use trails that traverse the hillsides between Wells, Bowron Lake Provincial Park, Barkerville Historic Town and nearby ghost towns.

Water Activities

The lakes and rivers of Bowron Lake Provincial Park form a circuit that is 116k/72mi long. This has become one of the top canoeing destinations in the world. Those not wishing to do a long canoe trip, however, can still enjoy paddling on Bowron Lake itself. Three lodges, with cabins, sit on this spectacular lake, and offer activities for the whole family. A vehicle-accessible, BC Parks campsite on the lake offers 25 "dry" campsites.

Local guides are available for the canoe chain trip and for shorter excursions on the lakes and on land. For up to date information, contact the Wells Visitor Centre in summer or the Wells District offices during the winter season.

Winter Activities

Because this area is blessed with 6m/20ft of deep, fluffy snow, sunny days, and starry nights, the residents of Wells really embrace winter. They have to – the winter season tends to be a long one. As the community is surrounded by a network of groomed hillside trails with a corridor running through the town site, cross-country skiing is popular. Afterwards, skiers simply wedge their equipment into massive snow banks beside their doorways. The town, indeed, reflects the atmosphere of a remote wilderness winter playground. And there are no crowds!

Ice fishing on Jack O'Clubs and Bowron lakes is gaining in popularity. The fish, so sought after during the summer months, are still there under the ice, waiting for avid anglers to drop their lines through the ice. Bring gear and the appropriate fishing licenses, and dress warmly!

Skiing, Sledding, Snowmobiling

Even downhill skiing is a possibility here. Troll Ski Resort, 20 minutes west of Wells, offers 518m/1,700ft of vertical terrain with an average base of 120cm/47in of natural snow.

Fancy a bit of dogsledding action? January brings mushers from around the world to take part in the annual Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run between Quesnel and Wells. The run is sanctioned by Canada Post, and mushers are actually sworn in as letter carriers and do carry mail.

Wells also has an extensive network of trails, maintained by the the Wells Snowmobiling Club. Trail fees can be paid at the Wells Visitor Centre or the Wells service station if the ticket booth at the Visitor Centre is closed.

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