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Take the road less travelled and make Highway 99 your new favourite route to Central and Northern British Columbia.
Travel traditional routes from Whistler through Pemberton, and over the Duffey Lake Road to Lillooet and Cache Creek, where a left turn on Highway 97 leads toward Williams Lake and beyond. This journey will have you stopping your car to wow over the vistas that present themselves with every bend and turn of this awe-inspiring trip through the lands of the Squamish, St’át’imc, and Secwepemc Peoples.
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from the picturesque mountain town of Whistler to the charming destination of Williams Lake, immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences and the warm hospitality of the communities you’ll visit.
We encourage travellers to contact tourism operators when planning their trip. Some offers and experiences may change seasonally or according to capacity.
Here is a selection of some of our favourite stops and Indigenous experiences along this route:
Start in world-renowned winter fun and resort town Whistler, where the snow-capped Coast Mountains play against a blue blazer sky and glacier-fed lakes feed alpine forests. Yes, the path winds and switches back and forth–the land itself seems to want you to travel slower, pay more attention to the world around you, and fill you with wonder at the many faces of nature’s beauty.
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultures of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. Upon entering the Centre, you’ll be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff passionate about sharing their traditions and heritage. The building itself is an architectural marvel, blending elements of both Squamish and Lil’wat cultures and representing the deep connection these nations have with their land. Inside, you’ll find a range of exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the art, history, and traditions of the Squamish and Lil’wat people. Learn about their ancient practices, such as cedar weaving, basketry, and carving, and gain a deeper understanding of their close relationship with nature and the land.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler
The Thunderbird Cafe at Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre showcases Indigenous cuisine, featuring a range of dishes that highlight traditional ingredients and flavours. From hearty soups and stews to flavorful salads and sandwiches, the menu offers a diverse selection of options to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. You’ll find dishes that incorporate locally sourced ingredients, including salmon, bannock, and other seasonal ingredients that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations.
Approximate Distance from Whistler to Lillooet - 133 km (83 miles)
A short mountain drive takes you to Pemberton and past Mount Currie, the rocky overseer that guides fresh mountain water down into the valley as the road pleasantly winds through dappled pastoral scenery and roadside creeks. But don’t fall asleep–the climb begins again just outside of Pemberton as you turn and begin your climb up the infamous Duffey Lake Road and wind and weave through countless creek crossings.
The route has seen improvements since the Gold Rush, but it’s still easy to imagine the arduous and challenging journey made by many fortune seekers. And now it’s your turn to marvel as each switchback reveals epic scenery and cinematic canyon views as you approach Lillooet and the Fraser River and alpine lushness gives way to a more rugged beauty. Venture into the heart of Lillooet, a historic town steeped in Indigenous culture and natural beauty.
Join Xwisten Experience Tours and embark on an immersive journey through their fascinating offerings. Combine the Fish Rock Tour, the S7ístken Site Tour, and the BBQ Salmon Meal for a comprehensive experience. Explore the traditional fishing grounds along the Xwísten community, learn about wind-drying salmon, and delve into the archeological village with over 80 cultural depressions. Marvel at the rebuilt S7ístken (pithouse) and savour a delicious salmon meal at Bearfoot Grill, owned by the community.
Learn MoreOwned and operated by the Xwisten Community, the Bearfoot Grill is an excellent stop when travelling through or visiting Lillooet. Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you will enjoy stunning views of the Fraser River and a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere. On the menu, you will find salmon burgers, bannock, and other comfort food items.
Retasket Lodge & RV Park in Lillooet is a charming and inviting accommodation with 20 rooms and 8 RV stalls on site. All units have 2 queen beds with comfy duvets and wifi.
Approximate Distance from Lillooet to Cache Creek - 70 km (43 miles)
The mighty Fraser River has been the peril and path for many adventurers, marking history and offering direction and resources for travellers. As you continue your road trip to Williams Lake, stop at Cache Creek.
Experience Historic Hat Creek Ranch in Cache Creek, an ideal stop for a bite to eat, ice cream, or a quick beverage before continuing to Williams Lake or Kamloops.
The ranch showcases the story of early transportation and settlement in the area, providing insights into the lives of Indigenous people, fur traders, gold prospectors, and pioneer settlers. As you explore the site, you’ll encounter various historic buildings, including a working blacksmith shop, a general store, and a roadhouse. The ranch has made efforts to highlight its Indigenous history by adding teepees and displays to the experience. An Indigenous Knowledge Keeper shares insights about plants and the ranch’s history.
Learn MoreApproximate Distance from Cache Creek to McAbee Fossil Fields - 36 km (22 miles)
Approximate Distance from McAbee Fossil Fields to Williams Lake - 145 km (90 miles)
When you leave Cache Creek, we invite you to make a short detour to experience the McAbee Fossil Field, where the land keeps the record and holds fossils and stories from the Eocene Epoch. This is also an ideal stop when travelling to Kamloops.
The McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site, operated by the Bonaparte First Nation, provide a unique and educational experience for visitors. This expansive fossil field offers a glimpse into the ancient past, allowing you to explore the rich history and cultural significance of the area.
The trail entrance, easily identifiable by a teepee, is conveniently located along the drive between Kamloops and Cache Creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding Shield Mountains and the serene Thompson River. The site encompasses a trail system that provides an excellent opportunity to discover and learn about the fossils and the history of the Bonaparte First Nation.
The trail system is open for visitors from Friday to Monday. The total loop of the trail spans 8 kilometres, with approximately 1.5 kilometres of easy-to-access trails, making it suitable for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. Along the way, you’ll encounter informative trail signs that provide insights into the original village sites and the rich history of the Bonaparte First Nation.
The McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site offers a captivating exploration of the region’s past, with fossils dating back millions of years. As you traverse the trails, you’ll have the opportunity to discover and observe a variety of well-preserved fossils, which serve as evidence of the diverse pre-historic life that once inhabited the area. From ancient marine creatures to terrestrial animals, these fossils provide valuable insights into the ecological and geological history of the region.
The site is of cultural importance to the Bonaparte First Nation. As you explore the trails, you’ll learn about their connection to the land and the significance of the McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site in their history and traditions. This area once had approx. 80 pit houses.
When planning your visit to the McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site, it’s recommended to bring cash, as they currently only accept cash for trail admission. The admission fees are $20 per adult, $45 for a family of four, and $10 for Elders. However, they hope to offer Interac capabilities in the future to provide more payment options.
The McAbee Fossil Fields
Welcome to Williams Lake and life in the Cariboo Chilcotin where Secwepemc, Tsilhqot’in, and Dakelh Peoples convene, and river & salmon culture dominate for Indigenous communities. Rolling hills and grasslands gouged by the deep Fraser River Canyon and views of the Cariboo Mountains to the west, where real cowboys still work the range and big-horned sheep and pelicans make quiet homes. Take time to pause and reflect on all you’ve seen. Like so many intrepid travellers before you–you made it. Adventure begins here.
Learn MoreXat’sull Heritage Village is an extraordinary cultural destination located approximately 25 kilometers north of Williams Lake on Highway 97, towards Barkerville and Quesnel. This captivating site offers visitors a profound and immersive experience, providing a deep understanding of the rich history and cultural heritage of the Xat’sull (Soda Creek) First Nation.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes visitors to explore various points of interest. These include teepees, winter homes known as pit houses, drying and tanning racks, a sweat house, a summer hut, and the newly constructed covered picnic area. Each stop along the tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about the cultural significance and traditional uses of these structures within Xat’sull society.
While exploring the village, you’ll discover the significance of the mighty Fraser River, where Xat’sull ancestors have fished for thousands of years, sustaining their community and connecting them to the abundant natural resources of the area. The guides share captivating stories and offer valuable insights into the Xat’sull people’s deep-rooted cultural practices, traditions, and harmonious relationship with the land.
Xat’sull Heritage Village
Cariboo Chilcotin Jet Boat Adventures is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience that takes you on a thrilling journey through the scenic waterways of the Cariboo Chilcotin region. Led by experienced guides Charlene and Doug, this adventure tour offers a unique blend of excitement, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. Based out Riske Creek, near Williams Lake, Cariboo Chilcotin Jet Boat Adventures provides a range of tour options to cater to different interests and preferences. One of their popular trips is the 6-hour food tour, which combines the thrill of jet boating with the opportunity to participate in dip netting and salmon preparation at an ancient fishing site. Along the route, you’ll have the chance to spot pictographs and petroglyphs, adding a fascinating historical dimension to the adventure. As you navigate the waterways, watch for the majestic bighorn sheep grace the landscape.
Whispering Willows Campsite, with its accessible location and basic amenities, offers a practical overnight stop for travellers driving north towards Barkerville / Quesnel. While it may not provide extensive facilities or a serene ambiance due to its proximity to the highway, it is a convenient option to recharge before continuing your journey. The campsite has also been popular when visiting Williams Lake during high-traffic periods such as the Williams Lake Stampede.
Continue north toward Prince George and Dakelh lands or venture west on Highway 20 toward Tsilhqot’in territory and over The Precipice to oceanside Bella Coola in Nuxalk territory.
On this road trip from Whistler to Williams Lake, let the horizon tow you from mountain vistas, through formidable canyons carved by ancient rivers, and toward rolling plains where wild horses still roam.
