Ashcroft

 Originally a post office, the museum building dates back to 1917. Exhibits include First Nations and pioneer history, as well as the discovery of coal in the region. Open from May to October. 

 Beginning at the distinctive Fire Hall, visitors are guided by brass plaques that tell the story of each key location. Walking tour pamphlets are available at the museum. Train spotting enthusiasts can enjoy watching the activity on the CPR and CN tracks that run by the town. 

 Built in 2000 as part of the village’s Millennium Project, the park features a “walk through time” with displays outlining Ashcroft’s history. Keep an eye out for the waterwheel and railway caboose. 

 “Art is an energy that is alive and all around us”. Visit the internationally acclaimed painter at her studio by making a booking 48 hours in advance. Also of interest are several unique murals and award winning gardens. Mural locations include the Legion, Curling Rink, Heritage Place Park, and Railway Ave. 

 Ashcroft is a very diverse Arts community and throughout our community you will find stunning works of art that were created by two very talented individuals and many volunteers. A Mosaic Walking Tour Map was created to direct visitors to the various locations. Since the production of this map there have been many new mosaics added around town, the collection just keeps growing. A special thanks to Sun Country Community Futures for designing and printing the walking guides. 

 Cool down in the hot summer months by taking a dip in the Ashcroft Swimming Pool. Open from late-May to early-September. 

 Enjoy a lively game of tennis! There are two newly surfaced tennis courts on the Desert Sands Community School grounds located at 435 Ranch Road, free to use and open from 9:00 am to dusk. 

 Barnes Lake and neighbouring Willard Lake are both artificial, created prior to 1900 by pioneer ranchers. Once providing vital irrigation, Barnes Lake is now a popular spot for canoeing, rustic camping and fishing for rainbow trout. 

 The dry grasslands of Elephant Hill Provincial Park are an ideal habitat for many wildlife species, including the rare Western Rattlesnake, Sharp-tailed Grouse, mule deer and coyote. 

 A great location for hiking and hang-gliding, Cornwall Hills Provincial Park is well worth a visit in July and August when the wildflowers are in bloom. 

 Admire the spectacular limestone canyon and waterfalls that held special ceremonial and spiritual significance to local First Nations people at Oregon Jack Provincial Park. Look out for culturally modified trees and pictographs, and remember to keep a respectful distance in order to help preserve this heritage for future generations. 

 Barnes Lake and other surrounding areas offer excellent ice fishing, cross-country skiing, skating and snowmobiling opportunities. Don’t miss the Cars on Ice races. Public skating is available most weekends during the winter months at the Drylands Arena.