The 1858 Gold Rush Day Trip

The Fraser Canyon was host to hundreds of gold hungry pioneers that battled the extreme terrain that the Fraser Canyon is known for. Forever changing, this Canyon has only bits  and pieces to offer of what these crazy times where like. The Gold Rush day trip begins in Hope BC where you can visit the Hope Visitor Information Center right on the Trans-Canada HWY. Here you will find the Hope Museum. After visiting Hope BC you continue on to Historic Yale east bound on the Trans-Canada HWY. If you are unsure of directions ask the Visitor Information Center before you leave they will be glad to help and highlight your trip. In Yale, you will find The Historic Yale Museum and Historic Church. Both of these sights are open for viewing and have exciting information and displays on the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush of 1858 (this museum is open seasonally). Also in Yale, is the Pioneer Cemetery where you can view and learn about the challenging times living in the Fraser Canyon during the 1800's, and why so many people died unable to live in this fierce land. Cemetery Tours are available, inquire at the Yale Museum. Visit Fraser River Rafting Expeditions to book your white water rafting trip, and you can challenge the same fierce rapids as the early pioneers. After you have visited historic Yale, continue east bound on HYW 1 until you arrive at Hells Gate. There you can learn all about the Fraser Canyon during the Gold Rush of 1858, and the Skuzzy Stern Wheeler which passed through this area to deliver supplies and passengers to the Fraser Canyon. When the Skuzzy reached "Hells Gate" more than 400 men were required to use rope and pull the stern wheeler through to upstream. Also at Hell's Gate, learn how to pan for gold and you can keep all your findings to take home with you! Visit the Museum that has information and videos on the Gold Rush. After you are finished at Hells Gate choose a local community where you can find a great selection of accommodations including B&B, Camping, RVing, Cabins, Hotel, and Motels. Stay one more day and explore more of Canyon Country!