Just north of Cache Creek, at the junction of Highways 97 and 99, in the semi-arid Cariboo Chilcotin region of British Columbia, Historic Hat Creek Ranch offers a rare opportunity to explore the original buildings of a key location in the Province's transportation history. You'll see and hear the story of early use of the valley by people of the Shuswap Nation, and their more recent contribution to the growth of the ranching industry. The dry rain-shadow climate, east of the Coast Range Mountains of BC, is where a unique blend of cultures has evolved in a landscape of sage, bunchgrass and Ponderosa pines. Come … experience one of the most distinctive heritage sites in British Columbia.

At Hat Creek Ranch, interpreters in period costume will take you on a guided tour of an authentic 1860s Roadhouse that catered to miners, pack-train operators, stagecoach passengers and wagon train drivers. Stroll through the beautiful heritage apple orchard, view the collection of antique agricultural equipment, and explore the ranch barns and outbuildings.

A brief walk along Hat Creek will take you to the Native Village where members of the Shuswap Nation share their fascinating history and culture - and tell about the many original displays on the site including an authentic Kekuli (pit house), the traditional winter home of the Shuswap.

Historic Hat Creek Ranch also offers stagecoach rides along the historic "Cariboo Wagon Road", customized trail rides through the surrounding ranchlands and beautiful backcountry, gold panning, archery, and more.

Historic Hat Creek Ranch features a "General Store" - a unique gift shop filled with wonderful treasures, and there's an air-conditioned restaurant with fantastic food and great hospitality.

For outdoor enthusiasts, camping is available for both individuals and groups. Facilities at Hat Creek Ranch include canvas "Miners Tents", a Tee Pee, newly constructed cabins with or without private bathroom, several RV sites with electrical hook-ups, along with an abundance of tenting sites. All camping locations are situated an easy walk from washrooms, showers, fire pits and the restaurant.

You can also experience a unique aspect of the Shuswap Native heritage with an overnight stay in a reconstructed Kekuli lodge (underground pit house). Located at the junction of Hat Creek and the Bonaparte River, the Kekuli is in a beautiful and secluded section of the ranch. Included are outdoor washrooms, a fire pit, storage facilities, a sweat lodge and a Tee Pee.

The Ranch caters to weddings and reunions, with the orchard serving as the perfect backdrop for a truly romantic outdoor ceremony and a hay shed that's available for gatherings and dances.

Visit Historic Hat Creek Ranch … just north of Cache Creek at the junction of Highways 97 and 99, in the South Cariboo region of British Columbia. This is where the history of British Columbia comes alive for you. Call or email to find out about annual special events such as the Bonaparte Pow Wow, where First Nations drummers, dancers and singers celebrate their heritage … the Trappers' Rendezvous, where you'll learn how trappers used to live, hunt and prepare their meals … or the Draft Horse Demonstration, where you can see how fields were plowed and how the hay was harvested during the 1860's.

For more information on Historic Hat Creek Ranch visit their full website: www.hatcreekranch.com, email them at hhcr@telus.net or call Toll Free: (800) 782-0922