Big Bar

Take in the forests and lakes; test out your cowboy skills on a ranch; rent a canoe and absorb tranquility.

History

The recent history of Big Bar has revolved around the ranching industry.  The OK Ranch is one of the oldest working ranches in the area, and is situated next to another ranch with deep roots - the Big Bar Guest Ranch.

The historic roadhouse of Jesmond, reportedly known as ‘Mountain House’, is thought to have been settled by a family from Jesmond, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, England, in 1913.  Although the original roadhouse burned down in 1926, the family rebuilt it. 

Things To Do

Big Bar Ferry.

The Big Bar Ferry is a reaction ferry that travels across the Fraser River.  The current, an overhead cable and rudders allow the ferry to traverse the mighty river.

Clinton to Big Bar Circle Route.

The Clinton Historic Circle Route covers many of the sites mentioned here, starting and ending in the town of Clinton.  It is a great way to see the incredible scenery surrounding Clinton and Big Bar, as well as the historic ranches.

GeoTourism.

Use a GPS or treasure hunt clues to find caches hidden in some of the area’s most fascinating locations as part of the Gold Country GeoTourism Program.  Cache sites in the Big Bar area include a ferry and a ranch. 

Recreation

Enjoy a western ranching experience with a peaceful ride through majestic mountains, or spend a day in the dust with the ‘cowboys.’  For a more relaxed visit consider a spa experience as part of your world-class retreat!

Outdoor adventures include hiking, camping, boating, mountain biking, swimming, fishing and horseback riding.  Many of these experiences can be arranged with the help of local accommodations.  Five provincial parks provide great family experiences and rare glimpses at protected ecosystems.

Downing Provincial Park.

Virtually surrounding Kelly Lake, Downing Provincial Park is a quiet stretch of wilderness.
Big Bar Lake Provincial Park.  Big Bar Lake Provincial Park offers fabulous family facilities, including a playground. Lakeside camping, a 4 km hiking trail surrounding scenic wetlands, opportunities for swimming and boat launches make this a popular summer destination.

Marble Range Provincial Park.

Named for its unusual ‘karst’ (limestone) topography punctuated by caves, sinkholes and disappearing streams, Marble range Provincial Park is as fascinating for geologists as it is for the average visitor.  Wildlife enthusiasts will be keen to catch a glimpse of the California Bighorn sheep and mule deer that the park protects.

Edge Hills Provincial Park.

Preserving panoramic river canyon vistas, slopes, bench lands and ravines along the Fraser River, the Edge Hills Provincial Park is an important habitat for many wildlife species.
Churn Creek Protected Area.  Churn Creek Protected Area consists of 36,100 hectares on the western edge of the area and includes some of B.C.’s rarest ecosystems.

Accommodation

Big Bar is home to some of the best guest ranches in British Columbia.  They range in price and facilities to suit a wide range of needs.  Some of the many activities offered by the guest ranches include gold panning, horseback riding, fishing safaris, spa retreats, canoeing and mountain biking.  Guest ranches include the Big Bar Guest Ranch and the Echo Valley Ranch and Spa.  Camping is available at Downing Provincial Park and Big Bar Lake Provincial Park.

Key Facts

Population: 40 Elevation: 1067m (3500 ft)

Amenities: Accommodations.  Camping/Sani Dump.