Thompson Valley Road Trip Itinerary.
April 09 2024, Mercedes-Benz Vancouver
Welcome to the Thompson Valley, a diverse and picturesque landscape of the Southern Interior that offers a wealth of experiential opportunities for travellers. From the bustling hub of Kamloops to the charming mountain villages of Sun Peaks and Valemount further north, this corridor promises breathtaking scenery as you tour the best that the North Thompson Valley has to offer.
Follow our travel itinerary for an incredible stop-and-stay road trip this summer.
Stop 1: Kamloops
Venture roughly four hours north of Vancouver to the city of Kamloops, a remarkable and unsuspecting destination of the Southern Interior that promises a vibrant starting point for your North Thompson Valley road trip.
To Do: Monte Creek Winery
Take a break from your travels at Monte Creek Winery for a delightful wine tasting overlooking the scenic South Thompson River encompassed by rangeland and vineyards. Stay for longer and indulge in their Terrace Restaurant, home to locally-inspired alfresco dining, open seasonally starting in May.
Stop 2: Sun Peaks Resort
Continuing your drive for another hour, you’ll reach the mountain village of Sun Peaks Resort. This charming ski village destination offers a plethora of year-round outdoor activities and dining experiences you won’t want to miss out on.
To Do: Outdoor Adventures
Golf: Tee off at the region's highest-elevation golf course, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains. The 18-hole par 72 Graham Cooke course provides a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Bike & Hike: Take on Sun Peaks’ acclaimed downhill bike park or immerse yourself in the great outdoors with a stunning mountain hike. The surrounding trails and landscapes offer panoramic views of the towering peaks and regions beyond.
Dine: When it's time to refuel, indulge in the culinary delights at Mantles Restaurant & Lounge, located within the Grand Hotel. For a more casual grab-and-go experience, visit Vertical Cafe, which features vegan and gluten-free options.
Stay: The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel in Sun Peaks serves as the perfect home base for your Sun Peaks vacation. Enjoy the premium accommodations and amenities, and use the hotel as a launching point for your adventures.
Stop 3: Clearwater
Departing from Sun Peaks, continue north on Highway 5 towards Clearwater, BC and watch as the surrounding landscape blends from warm desert to forested hills and sprawling ranchland.
To Do: Wells Gray Provincial Park
Wells Gray Provincial Park is a true gem of the British Columbia Interior, boasting a stunning array of natural attractions. This massive wilderness park, locally known as “the waterfall park” has 41 named waterfalls and offers many hikes that are suitable for all levels.
Spahats Falls: Only a 15-minute hike, Spahats Creek Falls is the first stop along Clearwater Valley Road, only 10 km from the visitor center. Turn left off from the main road and then walk 250 meters to the viewing platform.
Helmcken Falls: The fourth-highest falls in Canada. A short hike from the parking lot, Helmcken Falls is one of the most popular attractions in the park and a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Trophy Mountain Meadows: In the mid-summer months, the meadows of Trophy Mountain (a short hike from the trailhead parking lot) bloom into a myriad of alpine wildflowers. For the more adventurous, venture further to Sheila Lake for an overnight hiking stay.
Stay: Alpine Meadows Resort
To ensure you get to see the most of Wells Gray National Park, we recommend spending the night at Alpine Meadows Resort. The resort offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed accommodations, from cozy cabins to spacious suites. After a day of adventure, you can return to the resort and unwind in the peaceful ambiance, taking in the serene views and reconnecting with the great outdoors.
Stop 4: Blue River
Venture further north to the charming town of Blue River, where you'll have the chance to embark on a canoe or kayak adventure along the renowned Murtle Lake.
To Do: Canoe Along Murtle Lake
Rent a canoe or kayak from Murtle Lake Canoes and paddle along the 20-kilometre-long north and west arms of the lake, surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery. As the largest canoe-only lake in North America, Murtle Lake promises a serene and picturesque experience, with its pristine mountain valley setting and expansive waterways.
To access Murtle Lake, exit off Highway #5 at Blue River. Drive 27 km west on a narrow, gravel road to the parking lot. From there, a 2.5km level trail (canoe-cart accessible) leads to the canoe rental and launch spot. Each canoe rental automatically comes with a gear cart, life vests, paddles, ropes and a bailer and sponge.
Stop 5: Valemount
Top off your drive with a stop in Valemount, where you'll have the opportunity to take your adventure to new heights. Situated at the northern end of the region, Valemount offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
To Do: Helicopter Tour
Experience the region's natural beauty of Mount Robson Provincial Park from a bird's-eye view with Robson Heli Magic Inc. On your journey, you will get a front-row seat to the majestic rock, ice and vibrant, glacier-fed lakes that are sure to take your breath away.
Alternative Option: Explore Mount Robson Provincial Park
If heights aren’t for you, you can journey through Mount Robson Provincial Park. At the heart of the park lies Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, standing tall at an impressive 3,954 meters (12,972 feet).
The park's extensive network of hiking trails provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, through forests, cascading waterfalls, and along the shores of pristine alpine lakes.
Bonus: Jasper National Park
If you’re willing to go the extra mile, you will not be disappointed by making a stop in Jasper, Alberta. This renowned mountain town, located just a short drive from the British Columbia border, drew over 2.4 million visitors throughout 2023, and for good reason. Prepare to be awed by its rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and sprawling forests.
To Do: Golf & Unwind
Golf At The Fairmont Course: Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies, this challenging and rewarding 18-hole layout offers breathtaking vistas at every turn. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, the course promises an unforgettable experience.
Unwind At The Fairmont Spa: After a day of outdoor adventures, treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience at the Fairmont Spa. Indulge in a range of luxurious treatments, from soothing massages to revitalizing facials, and let the skilled therapists help you unwind and recharge. The spa's serene ambiance and state-of-the-art facilities will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.
Stay: Fairmont Jasper Park Lounge
Offering an array of cabins and chalet-style suites, the Fairmont Jasper Park Lounge is the perfect retreat for concluding your road trip. With stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and crystal-clear Lac Beauvert, you will leave Jasper feeling relaxed and rejuvenated for your trip home.
