Nestled in the Central Interior of British Columbia, Williams Lake is a city that offers a unique blend of history and adventure. It is the second-largest city in the Cariboo region, known for its vibrant culture and the famous Williams Lake Stampede.
Williams Lake is named after Secwepemc chief William, who played a crucial role in maintaining peace in the region. The city's history dates back to 4000 years ago, with the arrival of the first settlers during the Cariboo Gold Rush in 1860.
Williams Lake served as a significant trading center due to its strategic location at the intersection of two pack trails leading to the goldfields. The city was home to a government house, a post office, a courthouse, a roadhouse, and a jail, making it a bustling hub for miners and businessmen.
However, the city's growth was halted when the Cariboo Road was rerouted to bypass Williams Lake. The city was reborn in 1919 with the construction of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway.
In 1867, the Roman Catholic Church established St. Joseph's Mission, which later opened an Indian residential school. The school's history led to the creation of Orange Shirt Day, a national memorial for the victims of the Canadian Indian residential school system.
In 2017, Williams Lake faced a significant challenge when the province declared a state of emergency due to wildfires. The city made history again in 2022 when it officially proclaimed the third week of August as LGBTQ2S Pride Week.
Williams Lake experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers. The city receives about 2,000 hours of bright sunshine per year, more than most parts of the province. The city holds the record for the highest maximum temperature ever recorded in the province during September.
As per the 2021 Canadian census, Williams Lake had a population of 10,947. The city has a diverse ethnic origin, with the population remaining largely stable over the past thirty years.
Williams Lake is home to the local ice hockey team, the Williams Lake Stampeders. The city also boasts a championship 18-hole golf course at the Williams Lake Golf and Tennis Club and the Thunder Mountain Speedway for racing enthusiasts.
Williams Lake is located at the junction of Highway 97 and Highway 20. The city offers various transportation options, including the BC Transit and HandyDART bus service, taxi services, and flights from the Williams Lake Airport.
The Williams Lake Stampede is an annual event held on the Canada Day long weekend. It features Canadian Professional Rodeo Association action, including bull riding, barrel racing, and chuckwagon races. The Stampede also includes a parade and a carnival.
Scout Island is a nature area and park that offers a beach, picnic area, boat launch, and several trails. The Nature House on the island provides information, displays, and programs about the local environment.
Williams Lake is surrounded by several communities, offering visitors a chance to explore the broader Cariboo region. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, Williams Lake, British Columbia, has something for everyone.
