AREA INFORMATION

WELLS INFORMATION

Wells was founded in the 1930’s as a hard rock gold mining town. Today this cozy community offers unique history, arts and year round recreation opportunities. Wells has become a service center for the world famous Bowron Lake Provincial Park and Barkerville Historic Town. With an elevation of 4100 feet in the valley, Wells is surrounded by hills and peaks that offer remnants of a time long past and adventures yet to come.
Population: 220 year round residents.
Elevation: 1200 m – Topography is moderate to steep / rolling hills – elevation 900-2000 m.
Location: 74 km from Quesnel on Hwy. 26, 750 km from Vancouver and 220 km from Williams Lake or Prince George.
Climate: Rising air masses result in a high amount of snow for winter sports – average summer temp. +20 C and Winter temp. -10 C.

ARTS

The Arts within the Wells Community have become well known in Canada and the USA. Island Mountain Arts annually offers summer & winter courses, conferences, art shows and coffee houses. For original art from local artists, visitors must see St. George’s Gallery & Gifts and Amazing Space, both studios are located in Churches dating back to the 1930’s.

WELLS, BARKERVILLE & BOWRON LAKE TRAILS NETWORK
Much of the present trail network follows original pack trails, traplines and mining roads that linked together small gold rush communities. The trail network leads to various alpine meadows which boast views of the spectacular Cariboo Mountains. Remains of old town sites, ditch lines and mine shafts can be seen from many of the existing trails during the summer months. Visitors may enjoy mountain biking along forestry roads, hiking along old ditch lines and viewing the alpine wildflowers and wildlife on horseback. Water loversmay want to try some canoeing, kayaking, camping or fishing at one of themany picturesque lakes. Extensive upgrading to the historic routes hascreated a thorough trail network. The Wells, Barkerville and Bowron Lake Trail Network can be accessed from the center of Wells. During the Winter (mid November to the end of March) groomed trails lead into the alpine of untouched White Gold. Winter recreation offers a variety of trails forbeginner or advanced snowmobilers and skiers. For a rare and unique experience you might try dog sledding by moon light or winter camping and ice fishing.

BARKERVILLE INFORMATION

Barkerville is located 8 kilometers from Wells and is open year round. Summer activities start in May and wind down in September. These activities include street performers who portray people who lived in Barkerville during the 1800’s. School, mining and court session demonstrations are held daily and visitors can shop or eat in one of the many original buildings. A must see is China Town, which is in the process of being restored. Summer admissions are from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

  • Family Admission (2 adults & depended children): $11.90
  • Adult: $5.25
  • Students (ages 13 - 18) & Seniors: $3.25
  • Children (ages 6 - 12): $1.50
  • Children ages 5 & under Free
  • Seasons Pass: $15.40

    (Subject to change without notice)

    During the winter months Barkerville can be visited in its ghost town setting. Many recreation trails lead from the town site and Barkerville hosts special events like Victorian Christmas, with its sleigh rides, carol singing and unique 1880’s refreshments.

    • BOWRON LAKE INFORMATION
    Bowron Lake Provincial Park is located 30 kilometers from Wells and hosts the famous Bowron Lake Canoe circuit which offers visitors an unparalleled wilderness experience. Canoeing the chain of lakes takes approximately 7 - 10 days. Visitors must register at the park office or pre-register by phone (250) 992-3111. Guests may rent canoes and carts from various lodges in the area. Camp sites are available along the circuit and group bookings must be made well in advance. The busiest time of year for the circuits is July and August, yet September may be the most enjoyable time of year.