Spring has sprung, and there’s no better way to embrace the season of renewal than with a scenic springtime adventure along BC’s Gold Rush Trail! An unexpectedly perfect time to travel—mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and best of all, fewer crowds, provide a peaceful and immersive experience. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve rounded up six fun and festive activities that will fill your heart (and Instagram feed!) with joy. So, shake off the winter hibernation and discover what the Gold Rush Trail has in store for you this spring.
1. Scenic Drives Along the Gold Rush Trail
Spring is the perfect time for a scenic drive, with endless routes to explore along BC’s Gold Rush Trail. Cruise through Lillooet and into the breathtaking Bridge River Valley, where rugged peaks and rushing rivers set the scene for adventure. Or head north, where winding highways lead to hidden gems and untouched wilderness.
For a journey steeped in history, drive all the way to Barkerville, where spring brings lively activities and a glimpse into BC’s gold rush past. Barkerville Historic Town and Park‘s spring shoulder season runs from May 16 to 30, with the main season beginning on May 31, 2025.
No matter which route you choose, the open road, fresh mountain air, and stunning landscapes make spring travel truly unforgettable. If you’re starting your journey from Vancouver, be sure to explore all the incredible spring drive options from the city. Find them here.
2. Spring Runoff Water Activities in BC
Spring brings thrilling water activities to BC’s Gold Rush Trail, and there’s no better way to embrace the season than by experiencing fun water activities.
For a more serene travel experience, head to the Bridge River Valley and paddle the cool, clear waters of Gun Lake. Keep in mind that this is a cold water paddling experience, so be prepared and review some safety guidelines for an enjoyable outing.
If you’re seeking a blend of scenic beauty and adventure, lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning Canim Falls, Mahood Falls, and Deception Falls near 100 Mile House. These trails have picturesque views of cascading waterfalls and lush forests, perfect for an invigorating spring hike.
3. Gold Rush Trail’s Beautiful Farmers’ Markets
Springtime means the start of farmers’ market season, and BC’s Gold Rush Trail is the perfect place to travel and explore vibrant markets filled with local culture and fresh, seasonal produce.
Start your journey at The South Cariboo Farmers’ Market in 100 Mile House, open every Friday from May through September, where you can enjoy a variety of local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious treats.
Continue along the trail to the Lillooet Farmers Market, running from May to October, every Friday from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm, offering fresh products with stunning mountain views as the backdrop.
For those adventuring up north on Highway 97, the Cariboo Direct Farm Market in Williams Lake, is open on Fridays from May 3 to October 10, 2025 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. You’ll find everything from farm-fresh veggies to handmade goods.
Lastly, in Quesnel, be sure to visit the Quesnel Farmers’ Market, open Saturdays from May to October from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm. This market offers a range of locally sourced products that highlight the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
4. BC’s Most Captivating Historic Landmarks
BC’s Gold Rush Trail is a living mosaic of Indigenous and settler colonial history, culture, and nature. This spring, immerse yourself in the past as you journey along the route, uncovering stories etched into the landscape.
Further along the trail, the Lillooet Museum and Visitor Centre showcases gold rush relics and Indigenous artifacts, while Xwisten Experience Tours offers firsthand accounts of local heritage.
In Clinton, historic Clinton Museum stands as a charming reminder of the gold rush era, while the 108 Mile Heritage Site offers a well-preserved rest stop to stretch your legs. The Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin in Williams Lake celebrates the region’s cowboy culture, and a visit to the ghost town of Quesnelle Forks reveals its intriguing legacy as the first gold rush town in BC and a once-aspiring provincial capital.
Completing the journey, the award-winning Xat’sull Heritage Site, the welcoming Cottonwood Historic Site, and Barkerville Historic Town and Park provide further insights into BC’s vibrant past—all making for an unforgettable exploration of history along the Gold Rush Trail.
For a more comprehensive list of historic sites and museums, check out our guide.
5. Blooming Gardens & Vibrant Flowers Along the Gold Rush Trail
We can’t forget to mention gardens and flowers, especially with spring in full bloom. In BC, flowers bloom in a way that’s truly special, and the Gold Rush Trail is home to some stunning local gardens that are perfect for flower enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
For those interested in growing their own blooms, Horsting’s Farm Garden Centre provides everything you need to start your herb, vegetable, and bedding plant journey, proudly supporting the buy local, grow local movement.
If you’re visiting Quesnel between May and September, Edgewood Farm & Flower is the place to be, offering hand-wrapped bouquets and specialty arrangements made from seasonal blooms picked at the peak of freshness. Each of these locations showcases the natural beauty and vibrant colours that thrive along the Gold Rush Trail.
6. A Taste of Delicious Drinks in Lillooet, BC
Lillooet, a standout destination along the Gold Rush Trail, deserves a special mention for its breathtaking vistas, vineyards, and vibrant food scene. Spring, with its perfect weather and inviting atmosphere, is the ideal time to enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer paired with delicious food on a patio. When exploring the trail, Lillooet is a must-stop for an unforgettable experience.
Fort Berens Estate Winery boasts 38 acres of vineyards and an impressive facility where you can enjoy award-winning wines year-round. Their scenic patio serves a local farm-to-table menu, making it the perfect spot to relax. Right on the same property, Lillooet Cider Co. offers small-batch apple and apricot ciders, perfect for those looking for a refreshing drink.
Just a short drive from Lillooet, you’ll find Cliff & Gorge Vineyards, opening in May 2025. Tucked between cliffs and gorges, this winery specializes in completely natural wines that highlight the unique flavours of the land.
Finally, if you’re more into craft beer, don’t miss Lillooet Brewing Company, which focuses on ingredient origins, working with local farmers, foragers, and beekeepers to create beers that truly represent the land.
Click here to find more liquid gold!
Spring is the perfect time to explore the Gold Rush Trail, as the region comes alive with vibrant landscapes, blooming flowers, and a refreshing atmosphere that enhances every adventure. Happy spring travels!