Winter Trails - Celebrate Winter on BC's Gold Rush Trail

Just because winter is here doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop! In fact, this time of year is one of the best to explore and hit the trails! Think about it: no crowds, no bugs, just crisp air, snow-capped mountains, and frozen lakes creating a magical backdrop. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay active and boost your mood during the colder months.

If you are looking for the best winter trails to explore and how to embark on your adventure, we have you covered! On this page you will find the best snowshoeing, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails along BC’s Gold Rush Trail. Before you head out, remember: dress in layers to keep comfy, wear sturdy footwear, check for rental options in advance, and always practice responsible winter travel. Let’s make this winter one to remember!

Wells

Along with being a centre for artists, Wells is a major hub for outdoor enthusiasts in BC. The trail systems in this charming town are vast, all thanks to the Wells and Area Trails Society (WATS). Be sure to check out the Cornish Mountain and Meadows Trails, Barkerville Area Trails, and Stanley to Barkerville Trails. If you thought skiing and snowshoeing on forested trails was fun, just imagine what exploring Barkerville, a heritage town and park from the mid-1800s gold rush era, is like!

If you’re new to these activities or the area, we highly recommend booking a 1-, 3-, 4-, or 5-day guided backcountry ski or winter hiking tour with Whitegold Adventures. While you may have heard of or even completed the Bowron Lake Chain canoe trip before, experiencing it on cross-country skis with Whitegold is an entirely unique adventure.

Quesnel

Located at the confluence of the Quesnel and Fraser Rivers, the city of Quesnel and surrounding areas have an expansive network of winter trails, making it a highlight in this region of BC. The Cariboo Ski Touring Club alone has over 75 km (47 mi) of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails at Hallis Lake. 37 km (23 mi) of these are groomed and track set daily, 8 km (5 mi) are designated dog trails, and there are even lit night trails! Nearby Troll Resort also has some snowshoe trails of their own to go along with their family-friendly downhill facilities. You can also enjoy some winter hiking at Wonderland Trail network, Pinnacles Provincial Park and Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park.

Williams Lake

About 16 km (10 mi) north of the city, the Williams Lake Cross-Country Ski Club maintains and operates the Bull Mountain Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe area. This spectacular trail network boasts 28 km (17 mi) of well-groomed and varying trails. There are 3.5 km (2 mi) of lit night ski trails, 11 km (7 mi) of forested snowshoe trails, and around 5 km (3 mi) of designated dog trails. Alternatively, you can also winter hike at Fox Mountain.

100 Mile House

100 Mile House has some of the best snowshoeing and cross-country skiing facilities in the whole region. Just minutes from town, 100 Mile Nordics maintains 45 km (28 mi) of groomed Nordic ski and snowshoe trails. With a spacious lodge, 5 km (3 mi) of lit night ski trails, cabins on the trails to explore, rentals, lessons, and tons of pass options, it’s a must-visit if you’re in the area. Just 20 minutes away, you’ll find another 30 cross-country ski, snowshoe, and winter hike trails within the 108 Mile Trail Network. One of our favourites there is the 108 Lake Loop which – you guessed it – traverses along the edge of the frozen lake. You can also go snowshoeing right on the frozen Canim Lake or Deka Lake located along the famed Fishing Highway 24. For a unique snowshoe experience, head to Canim Falls and hike just 15 minutes for spectacular views of both the frozen Canim and Mahood Falls.

Canim Falls │ @southpointcanim & @bluetacoma604

Clinton

Maintained by the Clinton Snow Jockey Club, the Big Bar Cross Country Ski Trails consist of 26 km (16 mi) of Nordic trails perfect for all skill levels. With beautiful views of the Marble Range and 51 Creek Canyon, this is a lovely, serene area to ski that you do not want to miss.

Lillooet

Lillooet is best known during winter for its exceptional ice-climbing opportunities in an accessible BC location. Experience the thrill of this unique sport by booking a guided tour with Canada West Mountain School. If you’d prefer to keep both feet on the snow, you can also snowshoe and cross-country ski on frozen Kwotlenemo (Fountain) Lake or Pavilion Lake (ensuring first that the ice is thick enough and safe to be on).

Bridge River Valley

The Bridge River Valley is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! There are tonnes of trails and lakes for winter adventuring, most notably around Tyaughton Lake and Gun Lake. There are also back-country trails found at Green Mountain and within Bralorne Recreation Area. Please note that much of the ski-touring, fat biking, and backcountry areas within the Bridge River Valley are extremely remote and require experience. For a bucket-list-worthy guided trip, we highly recommend Tyax Adventures.

Snowmobile Clubs & Trails

For even more winter fun, consider exploring some of the fantastic snowmobile clubs and trails:

The Gold Rush Trail is a fantastic destination in BC for all kinds of winter activities. In addition to exploring the wondrous winter trails, be sure to check out our guide to 4 ways to ski the Gold Rush Trail and cozy places to stay in the area!