15 Things to Do in the Cariboo: Falls, Caves, and More

Though underrated when compared to BC’s more popular tourist destinations, the Cariboo region is one of my favourite places to visit. It’s quieter, slower-paced, and overall just makes for a nice road trip. If you’re looking for things to do while visiting the Cariboo, a little exploring quickly reveals that the place is more than just ranches and the gold rush. It’s full of some of the coolest geological oddities, waterfalls, and historic sites in the province.

Some of these places are easy to find and right off the highway, while others require venturing into the backcountry and can be difficult to locate. Those heading off the beaten path should double-check directions found online and be prepared for them to change in case of industrial activity or wildfire. Some of the trails are unmaintained, and some places are remote, so plan accordingly.

Geological Oddities

The Painted Chasm

Located north of Clinton, the Chasm is a gorge that was formed over 10 million years by glacial melt eroding a lava plateau. Enjoy the colourful striations in the rock while having a quick pit stop, or if you have more time, go for a hike. An informal trail follows the rim of the gorge for 6 km. It’s unfenced, so follow it at your own risk.

Please note that the area burned in a wildfire during the summer of 2026, so beware of hazards and obey all closures.

Pinnacles Park Hoodoos

One of the things I was told not to miss when working in the Cariboo one summer was the hoodoos in Pinnacles Provincial Park, just outside of Quesnel. Around 12 million years ago, lava flowed over ash and rock, cooling into basalt layers. Later on, meltwater from receding glaciers after the last ice age eroded the basalt layer, forming the hoodoos.

It’s a short, fun little walk to the viewpoint to see them. Like jagged teeth, they stick up in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery, both interesting and seemingly out of place.

Climb the Lone Butte

Right beside the Little Fort Highway is the butte that gave the nearby community its name. Made of basalt, it formed as a plug inside a volcano six million years ago. After the volcano went extinct, it eroded, leaving the column sitting as a prehistoric monument, now with communication towers atop it.

At some point, I decided that I wanted to climb to the top of the Lone Butte, and despite being terrified of heights, I managed to accomplish my goal and make the fun little scramble to the top. Only climb the Lone Butte if you’re physically fit, sure-footed, and cautious. It’s a short, steep, and rocky scramble, where you can take in 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

Ice Caves Trail

As a big fan of poking around in caves, as soon as I saw Ice Caves in my Backroad Mapbook, I knew I had to check them out. It’s a network of short trails with viewpoints, fitness stations, totem poles, and of course the ice caves. The caves themselves are large crevices that were said to be a source of ice for early settlers, who used it to cool their food. Ice could be found in their depths even in the summer.

The trail to the ice caves is flat, gravel, and accessible. From there, hikers can descend a set of steps to the more rugged trail along the shore of Bridge Lake, with plenty of pretty vistas and even a fishing dock.

Moffat Lake Basalt Columns

Fun to climb around on, these awe-inspiring basalt columns were formed as a result of ancient volcanic activity in the region. The trail is a 4.2 km long hike through the forest and also includes the seasonal Alix Falls. Since trail maps are difficult to come by, this is a self-guided adventure.

Waterfalls

Eakin Creek Falls

If you can figure out how to get there, this pretty little 8 m waterfall sits in a picturesque canyon within Eakin Creek Canyon Provincial Park. This is an undeveloped park with no clear signage, parking area, or facilities. The trail is unmaintained, and visitors should be self-sufficient and have good navigational skills.

Canim Falls

In photos, Canim Falls looks like something out of a fairy tale, with cascades of water flowing over an eroded lava plateau into a canyon. If you visit in late summer, the falls may have less water than expected, so the best time to see them is during freshet or after a period of rainfall. Waterfalls are perfect rainy-day destinations! Mahood Falls is also along the same trail, but can only be seen in glimpses through the trees. The short trail is easy and well-marked.

Deception Falls

Deception Falls might be considered the more adventurous cousin of the nearby Canim Falls. A short, uphill trail winds through lush forest to a viewing area where the spectacular falls can be seen cutting into the surrounding wilderness. The access road is rough and narrow. I was able to make it there in a sedan, but if you’re not experienced with rough forest service roads, use caution or plan to visit in an SUV.

Moffat Falls

When there’s less water, this waterfall splits into two twin falls. The hike is short and easy. Look for a historic gold rush-era rock oven and ditch that Chinese miners dug. Check out the Horsefly Waterfall Quest for more options to explore in the area.

Wineglass Falls

What’s better than a waterfall that you can walk behind? One with an old mine shaft back there, of course. History lovers and adventurers won’t be able to resist this waterfall, located southeast of Kersley down a network of forest service roads. The trail is short and easy, if you can find it. Go at your own risk and do not go into the mine shaft.

Hendrix Creek Falls

This short, well-maintained trail leads to a viewing platform where you can take in the glorious Hendrix Falls. The creek abruptly ends in a 20 m drop, where water flows into a basin. It’s absolutely stunning, and like many other waterfalls and geological oddities in the area, it was formed as a result of ancient volcanic and glacial activity.

Historical Places

Begbie Lookout

Stretch your legs with this short uphill hike to a fire lookout, found just off the Cariboo Highway. The lookout was staffed from 1923 to the early 2000s, though the current building was built in the 1970s. After it was no longer used as a fire lookout, it was turned into a recreation site. There are fantastic views of the Cariboo plateau from the top.

108 Mile Heritage Site

Do you love old buildings? This museum is made up of a collection of heritage buildings dating from the 1860s, many of them moved to the site and preserved. Historically, 108 Mile was a stop along the Cariboo Wagon Road. Seasonally, visitors can walk through the buildings and view artifacts while learning about the history of the area. The grounds can be walked year-round and are well worth a peek.

Xatśūll Heritage Village

Open seasonally from May to October, the village is a place to learn about the history, culture, and way of life of the Northern Secwepemc people. Fees apply. You can also pre-book guided tours, workshops, meals, or a stay in a teepee.

Barkerville

Barkerville is a classic Cariboo destination and one of its most popular tourist attractions, and for good reason. Originally a boomtown during the Cariboo Gold Rush, it declined over time, became a heritage site in 1924, and was later restored. It now serves as a museum and immersive heritage experience, complete with historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and a way to experience life in the past. Fees apply.

BONUS: Prettiest Roadside Stop

While you’re on your way to see all the cool things the Cariboo has to offer, be sure to stop at the Lac des Roches Viewpoint, a roadside rest stop and one of the prettiest views I’ve ever seen. I found the entirety of the Little Fort Highway to be a flowy, scenic drive, so much so that it went on my list of places to explore further. If you happen to be going that way, stop to rest your legs, have a snack, and take in one of the loveliest lakes in the Cariboo.

Don’t stop exploring yet! The Cariboo is also home to bush graves and ghost towns.