Ashcroft is steeped in the history of the Gold Rush. With the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 1800's, Ashcroft became Mile "0" on the road to the goldfields, and the major freight depot for all supplies heading north. Accommodations and services increased rapidly with the influx of people, and by 1887 Ashcroft was bustling with harness and wheel repair shops, blacksmiths, livery stables and freight warehouses. During the period 1886-1920 the Village flourished, but in 1920 the Pacific Great Eastern Railway provided access to the northern interior from Alberta. Ashcroft lost its strategic position as a supply centre for the north, spelling the end of a prosperous era. In order to survive, and recover from the destruction of "The Great Fire" in 1916, the people of Ashcroft turned to agriculture. They realized that when water is added to the parched soil practically anything will grow in the intense summer heat. Ashcroft soon became known for its high-grade potatoes and tomatoes. The BC Express Company converted their freight barn into a tomato cannery, which remained open until 1957. Mining has also been an important part of Ashcroft's history since the 1960s. Highland Valley Copper, one of the largest open pit copper mines in the world, employs many of Ashcroft's residents. Located 40kms south on highway 97C is the Highland Valley, daily tours of the mine are offered through the summer months. To take a trip back in time may we suggest a visit to the historical and informative Ashcroft Museum (corner of 4th & Brink St.) to learn a little about our rich past. While at the museum pick up a walking tour pamphlet, which describes the many heritage sites around town. Complete your walk at the Millennium Park situated at the end of Railway Avenue. The park features a "walk through time" with plaques and displays outlining the village's history.

Nl'Akapxm Eagle Motorplex The area's warm, dry climate provides the perfect setting for a world class racing facility, the Nl'Akapxm Eagle Motorplex. The Motorplex located 7 miles south of Ashcroft, hosts major national racing events throughout the summer months. Track Information: NHRA Sanctioned Track, Roll-down Staging Area, 300 Foot Concrete Launch Pad, 60 Foot Wide Track, Compulink Timing Equipment with Auto Start, Lighted pits, Canada's only permanently lighted track, Parking for 600 cars, Paved Return Roads, Uphill Shutdown, Water On-Site in Pits, Dry Climate, 1700 Foot Elevation, Showers, PA on 99.3FM and 530AM, Concession Stand. Location: Nl'akapxm Eagle Motorplex 11Km. South of Cache Creek on Trans Canada Hwy. No.1 Ashcroft, British Columbia V0K 1A0 Phone Tower: 250-453-9131 (during race weekends only) Phone for Eagle Motorplex non race weekends - Joe Sye - 604-454-8880 Email: eaglemotorplex@shaw.ca Web Site: http://www.eaglemotorplex.com