Embracing Winter in Williams Lake, British Columbia

Williams Lake is located in the Central Interior of British Columbia and as the largest urban centre between Kamloops and Prince George, Williams Lake is a hub for winter activity. From cross-country to downhill skiing, recreation during the colder months is plentiful and easy to embrace, leaving you to wonder what to do first in Williams Lake.

Sharpen Your Skates

Situated in the centre of Cariboo Chilcotin Regional District, Williams Lake provides you with ample opportunities to do some outdoor ice skating.

An excellent place to start is Scout Island, which is actually two islands on Williams Lake operating as a nature sanctuary and park. It has marsh, island, and lake environments ideal for birds, allowing you to appreciate nature in its purest form. Enriched with trails, small wildlife habitats, and much more, you can skate across the frozen lake and enjoy the encapsulating views along the way. After your skate, walk up the Scout Island lookout hill to see the night's sky full of stars. As an added bonus, there's even the Nature House where you can go inside and learn about the conservation area.

Hit the Slopes

When you’re looking to hit the slopes this winter and make them your own, Bull Mountain Cross-Country Ski Trails (host of the 2002 BC Winter Games cross-country competition) offers you the perfect opportunity. Its trail network includes 28 km of well-groomed, cross trails for all skill levels. From gentle, scenic trails to long climbs with steep downhill sections, there is something for everyone. Enjoy gearing up and reading the trail maps inside the warming hut and then you’re off!  If you've got some bold skiers in the group, try the 3.5 km of lighted track for night skiing until 10 PM each night, or bring your own headlamp!

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is a popular sport for Williams Lake residents as the Cariboo region is home to the “Fishing Highway” and includes access to well over 100 lakes, providing residents with ample opportunity to catch some fish year-round. Reservoir Lake and Raven Lake are popular among locals and should be your first stops during your fishing adventure.

Upcoming Events

When you're looking for things to do in Williams Lake around the holiday season, the Cowboy Christmas Craft Fair and Concert will ensure your holiday spirit is in full glow. Put on by the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin on November 24th, you can get a taste of the west with classic western music, arts, crafts, and entertainment. You can do your favourite renditions during the open-mic session, check out various vendors, and grab a bite to eat before the evening concert. Tickets go on sale soon for $15 each.

Where to Stay in Williams Lake

At Coast Fraser Inn, you'll feel the Williams Lake hospitality. Stop by the friendly Boston Pizza Sports Bar and Restaurant for tasty food and a round of drinks after a long day, or unwind in the hot tub. Coast Fraser Inn is a short drive from the Scout Island Nature Centre, a half-hour drive to Bull Mountain, and just blocks from the centre of town.

During your stay, enjoy these wonderful amenities:

• Complimentary hot breakfast buffet
• Free Wi-Fi 
• Hot tub 
• Fitness centre 
• Pet-friendly accommodations

Make your reservation at Coast Fraser Inn today, and start planning your winter adventure!