Historic Hat Creek Ranch

Highlights / General details

Historic Hat Creek Ranch offers a rare opportunity to explore the original buildings of a key location in the transportation history of the Cariboo. The site also presents the story of early use of the valley by people of the Shuswap Nation and their more recent contribution to the growth of the ranching industry. Here in the dry rain shadow climate, east of the Coast Range Mountains, a unique blend of cultures has evolved in a landscape of sage, bunchgrass and Ponderosa pines. Come and experience one of the most distinctive heritage sites in British Columbia.

Interpreters in period clothing will take you on a guided tour of the 1860s Roadhouse, which catered to miners, pack-train operators, stagecoaches and wagon trains right up until 1916 when the automobile was first introduced to the Cariboo. Stroll through the beautiful heritage apple orchard, view our collection of antique agricultural equipment, and explore the ranch barns and outbuildings, some of which have recently been restored with the generous help of the Province of British Columbia.

A brief walk along beautiful Hat Creek will take you to our Native Village, where members of the Shuswap Nation share their fascinating history and culture with our visitors and interpret the many original displays that are shown on the site, which include an authentic Kekuli (pit house), the traditional winter home of the Shuswap built half above and half below ground.

For a different type of adventure, we offer stagecoach rides along the historic "Cariboo Wagon Road", gold panning, archery and more.

Inclusion

2 Guided Tours (Native Interpretation Site Tour & 1864 Roadhouse Tour) and free stagecoach ride.

Exclusion

Gratuity, Food and beverage.

Hours of operation

Open: 9:00am - 5:00pm (May - June, September) & 9:00am - 6:00pm (July & August).

Location Junction of Highway 97 and 99, 11 km north of Cache Creek.

Location

Junction of Highway 97 and 99, 11 km north of Cache Creek.

Policies Guest is responsible for own transportation to and from attractions.

All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation