Clinton, British Columbia, Canada
This friendly community has a unique charm, rich with Cariboo Gold Rush heritage. Venture into awesome provincial parks on warm summer days, or experience beautiful snow-capped forests in crisp winters. Clinton is where your Cariboo adventure begins, year round. Approximately 500 Clinton residents and visitors had an opportunity to meet a team from NASA who are investigating the depths of nearby Kelly Lake. Part of the Pavilion Lake Research Project, these two lakes in Gold Country, British Columbia might hold the key to understanding ancient freshwater microbalites. The Community Day was a fantastic experience for everyone to learn more about deepwater explorations and what makes Kelly Lake so special. After a tour of a field operations unit parked behind the Cariboo Lodge, the celebrations continued with a barbecue and speeches at Kelly Lake.
Kelly Lake is a great location for swimming and fishing. Take a walk in the surrounding Downing Provincial Park to enjoy the stunning scenery. To learn more about NASA’s research project while you plan your trip, visit Pavilion Lake Research Project (PLRP) | NASA
Clinton was founded in the 1860s, and became incorporated in 1964. It served as a roadhouse at the junction of the Cariboo Trail from Lillooet, and the Cariboo Road from the Fraser Canyon. Originally called ’47 Mile’ because it was 47 miles from Lillooet (‘Mile 0’ on the route north to the goldfields), Clinton was renamed by Queen Victoria in 1863 in honour of Lord Henry Pelham Clinton, the Colonial Secretary of the day. After the Gold Rush era, ranching formed the backbone of Clinton’s economy. By the early 1950s, forestry had surpassed ranching as the primary industry. At one time there were over 20 bush mills and sawmills operating in the area.
Built in 1892 from locally made bricks, and originally serving as the schoolhouse and then a courthouse, this building has a fascinating history of its own. Existing as a museum since 1956, the building now exhibits artifacts dating back to the Gold Rush era. Open seven days a week from May to September.
Step back to a time when Clinton’s main street would have featured a blacksmith’s shop, a tollgate, a local jail and a China Town. Pick up a copy of the “Clinton Walking Tour Book” (available at the museum, village office and local businesses) to learn more about Clinton’s fascinating Gold Rush past.
This beautiful park is centrally located in the village, and is a perfect place for a picnic. Stroll along paved walking trails, enjoy entertainment at the bandshell or take the kids to the playground in this family-friendly space.
The Gold Country GeoTourism Program is a great way to discover hidden treasures in the Clinton area. Sites you will discover on your adventure include a historic roadhouse and the remains of an alkaline lake soda mine.
Known as the ‘Guest Ranch Capital of BC,’ Clinton is a wonderful base for all your outdoor adventures. Horseback riding and mountain biking experiences are offered by many of the guest ranches in the area. There are several forestry sites located at our many small lakes offering a great starting point for canoeing, fishing and hiking opportunities. Mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking are all possible on the Big Bar Cross-Country Ski Trails during the summer months. Maps of marked hiking trails are available at most Clinton businesses. Clinton boasts some of the best trout fishing in the area. Whatever the season, head to any one of the nearby lakes, such as Beaverdam Lake, Little Big Bar Lake, Kelly Lake or Green Lake and drop a line.
No visit to the area is complete without a trip to the breathtaking Painted Chasm in Chasm Provincial Park. This Chasm was formed by glacial melt waters many thousands of years ago, and you can still see the layers of individual lava flows in this 8km long canyon.
Big Bar Guest Ranch – 1-877-655-2333 Join the Ride! All inclusive guest ranch. Enjoy great meals, and scenic trail rides.
Echo Valley Ranch – To book 1-800-253-8831 Beautiful suites, cabins, gourmet meals as well as horse trail rides, fishing and a gorgeous spa.
Wildhorse Adventures – Contact Gina 250-457-1526 Contact Wildhorse Adventures to book Trail rides, pony rides, horse boarding lessons and guided hikes in stunning scenic surroundings!
Visitors are welcome to participate in the indoor winter activities the town has to offer at the Curling Rink and Ice Arena. Explore the cross-country ski trails (Big Bar Cross Country Ski Trails) twenty minutes north of Clinton, which are maintained by the Clinton Snow Jockey Club. Snowshoeing, an increasingly popular activity with winter sports enthusiasts, is also possible on these trails. Many of the nearby lakes are beautiful and undisturbed locations for ice fishing. Locals recommend Beaverdam Lake and Leighwood Lake for your best chance at catching Eastern Brook Trout in the winter. Drop your line in Big Bar Lake if you prefer Rainbow Trout. There are also opportunities for snowmobiling in the surrounding areas: some local accommodations can help you plan your winter adventures.
From pubs to pizza places, Clinton caters to a variety of tastes. Experience excellent service at the restaurant, saloon or café at the Cariboo Lodge Resort (Hwy 97. Phone: 250-459-7992). Enjoy fresh, homemade western cuisine at the Cordial Restaurant (1315 Cariboo Hwy. Phone: 250-459-2323). Gold Mountain Restaurant offers a delicious combination of Chinese and western dishes (1525 Cariboo Hwy. Phone: 250-459-2343). If you’re looking for a hot drink, Wi-Fi and ambience, visit the Junction Coffee House (1418 Cariboo Hwy).
Events
Don’t miss the annual Clinton Ball, held each May. This Ball started in 1868, and is the longest surviving continual event of its kind in BC. The Clinton Ball opens Clinton Heritage Week, which includes community events and ends with the famous Clinton Rodeo, a colorful parade and the fun-filled Rodeo Dance.
In August, come out and enjoy the Clinton Little Britches Rodeo, where young cowboys and cowgirls from all over the province compete!
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