Experience thrilling wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures in West Chilcotin
The West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through some of British Columbia's most remote and stunning landscapes. Travelers can experience the rugged beauty of the Chilcotin Plateau and Coast Mountain Range, with highlights such as horseback riding at a traditional guest ranch and hiking to the spectacular Farwell Canyon sand dunes, where you may spot bighorn sheep. A scenic floatplane tour over glaciers and alpine lakes offers a bird’s-eye view of this pristine wilderness.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by opportunities to see grizzly bears, whales, and other wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest. The tour also immerses travelers in Indigenous culture with visits to Xat’sull Heritage Village and Bella Coola, where guided tours offer insights into the region’s history and traditions. With a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and wildlife, this self-drive journey provides an authentic exploration of the West Chilcotin.
Highlights of the West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour
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West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Williams Lake
Arrive in Williams Lake and settle into your hotel. Enjoy some optional sightseeing and explore the local area at your own pace. For dinner, choose from the various local restaurants and relax after your journey.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Williams Lake
Meals: None
Day 2 Explore Xat’sull Village & Chilcotin Plateau
Visit Xat’sull Indigenous Heritage Village, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and lunch. Then, drive through the breathtaking Chilcotin Plateau, immersing yourself in the vast wilderness. End the day with a relaxing dinner at a historic B&B in Riske Creek, and unwind in the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight Location: Bed & Breakfast in Riske Creek
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 Discover Farwell Canyon
Head to the scenic Farwell Canyon, where you’ll hike along its striking sand dunes. Have lunch by the river and spend the afternoon exploring Riske Creek’s trails or simply relax before another exciting day.
Overnight Location: Bed & Breakfast in Riske Creek
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4 Bull Canyon & Traditional Guest Ranch Experience
Drive along HWY 20, stopping in Redstone for lunch on a charming farm. Afterward, explore Bull Canyon Provincial Park with a scenic hike along the Chilcotin River. Arrive at your guest ranch near Kleena Kleene for a classic Canadian ranch experience and enjoy a peaceful night in this rustic setting.
Overnight Location: Guest Ranch near Kleena Kleene
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 5 Immerse in Guest Ranch Activities
Settle into the laid-back ranching culture of the Plateau. Start your day with a scenic horseback ride through the stunning landscape, followed by a thrilling side-by-side ride through the forest to a picturesque lookout. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure—whether you choose to canoe on the tranquil lake, hike the surrounding trails, or simply relax on the ranch grounds.
Overnight Location: Guest Ranch near Kleena Kleene
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6 Turner Lakes & Hunlen Falls
Board a float plane from Nimpo Lake for a scenic tour over the Coast Mountains and Monarch Icefields. Land at Turner Lake to visit the stunning Hunlen Falls and spend the afternoon hiking around this remote park. Return to Nimpo Lake via floatplane and spend the night at the guest ranch.
Overnight Location: Guest Ranch near Kleena Kleene
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7 Journey to Bella Coola
Continue along HWY 20 to the lush Bella Coola Valley, stopping for lunch by the ocean and estuary. Enjoy a walking tour with a local Indigenous guide to view sacred petroglyphs, and immerse yourself in the region's rich culture.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bella Coola
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Day 8 Grizzly Bear Viewing
Embark on a thrilling grizzly bear viewing tour along the Atnarko River in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. Afterward, enjoy a free afternoon to explore Bella Coola’s natural beauty and hikes in nearby parks.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bella Coola
Meals: None
Day 9 Explore the Bella Coola Fjords
Set out on a full-day boat tour exploring the stunning Bella Coola fjords. Take a dip in natural hot springs, and keep your eyes peeled for grizzly bears, black bears, whales, and dolphins.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bella Coola
Meals: Lunch
Day 10 Return to Williams Lake
Head back to Williams Lake, marking the end of your West Chilcotin adventure.
Overnight Location: None
Meals: None
West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour Price and Dates
This self-guided tour is fully customizable and available for any group size, based on availability. The prices below are per person, based on double occupancy:
Book NowAccommodation on West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour
This tour is based on a variety of options such as hotels, lodges, Guest Ranch and bed and breakfasts, each offering a unique and comfortable stay tailored to your needs.
Hotels on Standard Tour
Hotel in Williams Lake
Stay at a cozy hotel in Williams Lake, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
Bed & Breakfast in Riske Creek
Relax at a charming Bed & Breakfast in Riske Creek, offering warm hospitality and a peaceful retreat surrounded by the natural beauty.
Guest Ranch near Kleena Kleene
Experience an authentic Guest Ranch near Kleena Kleene, where you can enjoy rustic charm, outdoor activities, and breathtaking views.
Lodge in Bella Coola
Charming lodge in Bella Coola offering cozy rooms, stunning views, and a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
What’s Included in the West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 9 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
For transportation during the tour, you will need your own vehicle, as this is a self-guided tour. Detailed itineraries and local recommendations will be provided to ensure a smooth journey.
Also included
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- Custom prepared itinerary, local recommendations, and remote support during your trip.
Not included
- Flights to/from and within British Columbia
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Vehicle rental/usage and fuel
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
- GST tax (5%)
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Optional activities or excursions
Frequently Asked Questions about West Chilcotin Self-Drive Tour
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