Jewel of the Yellowhead

Blue River's moniker, the 'Jewel of the Yellowhead,' speaks volumes. This gem of a destination is rich in natural treasures waiting to be discovered. Picture valley bottoms seamlessly blending into forested mountains, leading up to the rugged slopes of the Monashee and Cariboo ranges. Experience the serene symphony of nature as you roam through forests of spruce and cedar. Our glacier-fed lakes and regal mountain peaks provide abundant habitats for diverse wildlife, from caribou and moose to bears, wolves, and eagles. It's no wonder Blue River is one of the best spots in British Columbia to catch a glimpse of black bears! With enchanting spots like the Blue River Trails, Eleanor Lake and Herb Bilton Way Park just steps away, adventure is always within reach. Don't miss out on the local food – offering satisfying dishes or snacks to grab along the way. Support local businesses and treat yourself to a meal with stunning views that will reset your body and mind.

Winter Wonderland

Blue River is renowned worldwide for its abundant dry powder snow to satisfy the world’s hungriest powderhounds. World-class heli-skiing operator, Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, is famous for unlimited vertical, pristine snow and exceptional terrain.

There are plenty of other ways to explore the fresh powder snow here. Go backcountry skiing on self guided adventures, or explore our groomed cross-country ski trails. Snowmobile enthusiasts will love the 60 km (37 mi) of groomed and ungroomed backcountry trails. Embrace the warm sun on your face as you race across this frozen frontier underneath bluebird skies. This winter wonderland takes playing in the snow to the next level!

Murtle Lake

Imagine waking up to the sound of water lapping outside your tent. The famous Murtle Lake, located in Wells Gray Provincial Park, is North America’s largest non-motorized lake. Hike the 2.5km cart accessible trail, carrying your own canoe or kayak, or prearrange a canoe rental for your arrival at the lake. Cast your line and catch a rainbow trout weighing up to 3 kg (7 lb). Camping is located on the beautiful sandy beaches in approved locations on Murtle Lake, where you can share a campfire with new friends or old. As the sky paints with orange at sunset, take in the transition to night with stars as your roof.

Endless Summer Days

Summer in Blue River is both laid back and exhilarating. Spend your days exploring peaceful forest trails on foot and mountain bike, all within close proximity to town. And with access to many kms of forest service roads, there’s no telling what adventures you might find on an ATV. Cross the Blue River on the new pedestrian suspension bridge, and access the North Thompson River. Cool down with a relaxing swim at Eleanor Lake, enjoying its sandy beach, playground, concession and docks and slide. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Blue River!

Where Your
Adventure Begins

Where you stay, isn’t just about where you rest your head. In Blue River, it’s where your adventure begins. Whether you’re resting up on your journey along the Yellowhead Highway, or making Blue River your staging ground for mountainside adventures – you’re going to need a comfortable place to stay! Get comfortable at motels, inns, and B&Bs in the Blue River area. There are several places to park an RV or pitch a tent. You can even rent a tipi at the Blue River Campground. There’s also the luxurious Mike Wiegele Heli Ski resort, open year-round, where you can choose from chalets or a private Bavarian House or Cabana.

River Safari Tours

In the heart of the planet’s only inland temperate rainforest, board one of our specially designed boats for a smooth but exciting Safari. Explore up to 12 kilometers of the spectacular Mud Lake Delta Provincial Park and Mud Creek Valley - where the wildlife decides when and for how long we stop along the way! As you are travelling through glacier-fed rivers and lakes seemingly going where no boat has gone before, you are sure to fall witness to a variety of active wildlife seen on the riverbanks. In addition to an information-packed narrative, guides will point out bears, glaciers and many waterfalls toppling from the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Your point of departure is conveniently located just north of Blue River off the Yellowhead Highway 5, halfway between Jasper and Kamloops, as well as halfway between Mount Robson and Wells Gray Park.

For More information or to keep up to date visit: https://www.blueriversafari.com/

Top Blue River Experiences

POWDER CHASING
Fluffy, waist deep powder is never far away. Snap on skis or a snowboard and enjoy alpine, backcountry, and cross-country skiing. Rev it up another notch with a snowmobile and power through 60+ km of trails through the powdery backcountry.

FAMOUS MURTLE LAKE
From May to the end of September, paddle true north, exploring the famous Murtle Lake the only way you can – by canoe or kayak. Experience true quiet, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the ones Mother Nature creates. With 100km of rugged forest and sandy shores, Murtle Lake is your go-to for backcountry adventures and legendary Rainbow trout fishing.

HIKE THE FOREST
Discover the interior rainforest. Immerse yourself amongst calming scents of spruce and cedar and feast your eyes on jagged mountain tops that stretch all around you, savouring views that can only be described as inspirational.

MAKE A SPLASH
Disconnect for the day, soaking up the sun at Eleanor Lake in the Blue River Community Park. Go for a dip, stroll on the beachside trail. Spread a blanket and catch up on the latest beach book and work on your tan. Enjoy the children’s playground.

EATS & TREATS
Explore the local restaurants with patios in Blue River. Or take your goodies to go and eat next to the water. Satisfy your hunger after a day of adventuring.

Find out more about Blue River: https://www.blueriverbc.ca/

This website is the official travel website for the North Thompson Valley, British Columbia, Canada and is sponsored by the North Thompson Valley Marketing Committee; a partnership of Tourism Wells Gray, Thompson-Nicola Regional District and Tourism Valemount.