Cache Creek: A Hidden Gem in British Columbia
Cache Creek is a small community located in the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia, Canada. It is situated at the junction of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 97, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Despite its small size, Cache Creek has a lot to offer visitors, from natural wonders to unique roadside attractions.
Attractions
Historic Hat Creek Ranch
Historic Hat Creek Ranch is a living history museum that showcases the life of pioneers in the 1800s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, which includes a restored 1860s roadhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a Chinese worker's cabin. The ranch also hosts special events throughout the year, such as a cowboy poetry festival and a pioneer Christmas celebration.
Semlin Valley Golf Course
Semlin Valley Golf Course is a nine-hole course that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The course is open from April to October and is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which serves up delicious burgers and other pub fare.
Marble Canyon Provincial Park
Marble Canyon Provincial Park is a natural wonder located just outside of Cache Creek. The park features a deep limestone canyon that has been carved out by the rushing waters of the Tokumm Creek. Visitors can hike along the canyon's edge and marvel at the turquoise waters below.
Bonaparte Provincial Park
Bonaparte Provincial Park is a popular spot for camping and fishing. The park is home to several lakes, including Bonaparte Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout. Visitors can also hike along the park's trails and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Horstings Farm Market
Horstings Farm Market is a family-owned farm that sells fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. Visitors can pick their own berries in the summer months or enjoy a hayride in the fall. The market also hosts special events throughout the year, such as a pumpkin patch and a Christmas market.
Cariboo Jade Shop
The Cariboo Jade Shop is a unique roadside attraction that showcases the beauty of jade. Visitors can watch as skilled artisans carve intricate designs into the jade, or purchase a piece of jade jewelry to take home as a souvenir.
History
Cache Creek was established in the mid-1800s as a stopping point for gold rush miners traveling to the Cariboo region. The community was named after a cache of furs that was discovered in the area. In 1967, Cache Creek was officially incorporated as a village.
The community was founded by a man named Donald McLean, who was a Hudson's Bay Company trader. McLean established a trading post in the area in the 1860s, which eventually grew into the community of Cache Creek.
Conclusion
Cache Creek may be a small community, but it has a lot to offer visitors. From the natural wonders of Marble Canyon Provincial Park to the unique roadside attractions like the Cariboo Jade Shop, there is something for everyone in Cache Creek. And with its convenient location at the junction of two major highways, it's the perfect place to stop and take a break on a road trip through British Columbia.
Sources
- Historic Hat Creek Ranch: https://www.hatcreekranch.ca/
- Semlin Valley Golf Course: https://www.semlinvalleygolf.com/
- Marble Canyon Provincial Park: https://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/marble_cyn/
- Bonaparte Provincial Park: https://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/bonaparte/
- Horstings Farm Market: https://www.horstings.ca/
- Cariboo Jade Shop: https://www.cariboojade.com/