Wellness Awaits You
Cut into the Thompson River Valley in the midst of sagebrush-speckled high desert hills, the historic village of Ashcroft is home to scenic adventures, wellness and relaxation. With a growing number of amenities to care for your mind, body and spirit, pamper yourself and reignite your sense of adventure while enjoying awe-inspiring scenery.
History
Originally part of Nlaka’pamux (Thompson) territory, the Aboriginal people living in the area relied on the bounty of fish in the Thompson River to sustain their communities. Ancestors of the Ashcroft Indian Band spent the winter months in pit houses near the Thompson River and Ashcroft Ranch. Visitors to Ashcroft in the late nineteenth century would have witnessed the Gold Rush fever that led to the rapid development of the settlement. With the establishment of the railway, Ashcroft became a major supply centre for prospectors and miners travelling north on the trail to the goldfields. Ranching was also vital to the growth of the community, and in the early twentieth century Ashcroft became famous for its delicious crops of potatoes and tomatoes.
Things to Do
Ashcroft Museum & Archives
Corner of 4th & Brink St. Phone: 250.453.9232Originally a post office, the museum building dates back to 1917. Exhibits include First Nations and pioneer history, as well as the discovery of coal in the region. Open from May to October.
Walking Tour
Beginning at the distinctive Fire Hall, visitors are guided by brass plaques that tell the story of each key location. Walking tour pamphlets are available at the museum. Train spotting enthusiasts can enjoy watching the activity on the CPR and CN tracks that run by the town.
Heritage Place Park
Located on Railway AvenueBuilt in 2000 as part of the village’s Millennium Project, the park features a “walk through time” with displays outlining Ashcroft’s history. Keep an eye out for the waterwheel and railway caboose.
Jo Petty’s Studio
Phone: 250-453-9000“Art is an energy that is alive and all around us”. Visit the internationally acclaimed painter at her studio by making a booking 48 hours in advance. Also of interest are several unique murals and award winning gardens. Mural locations include the Legion, Curling Rink, Heritage Place Park, and Railway Ave.
Dining
Treat yourself to a delicious steak, bakery favourites or a hot drink in a heritage teahouse. The Ashcroft Manor & Teahouse (Trans Canada Hwy #1 West. Phone: 250-453-9983) marks the original site of Ashcroft and has a 149 year history. Today, the site includes a museum, six original historic buildings, a gift shop and a restaurant. The Ashcroft Manor is open from May to late October. Locals and visitors alike enjoy friendly service and freshly baked delights at the Ashcroft Bakery (303 3rd St. Phone: 250-453-9212). The UniTea tea room has baked treats, delicious soups and teas at 100 – 210 Railway Ave. The River Inn Pub and Restaurant features many delicious culinary choices! ( 50 1st under the bridge 250-453-2230). FULL LIST OF DINING OPTIONS
Events
The Barnes Lake Cars on Ice races held annually in January and February are exhilarating. The Cars on Ice team also offer programs for new and experienced ice racers. The Ashcroft Fine Arts Club Show & Sale, held in April, exhibits the works of Ashcroft’s thriving arts community, which includes both hobbyists and artists of international acclaim. The Ashcroft Fine Arts Club also hosts an Art Walk at local businesses during the summer months. Pick up an Art Walk map at the Tourist Info Booth. Don’t miss the Ashcroft & District Rodeo & Parade, held annually on the third weekend in June (Fathers’ Day weekend). Cowboys and town folk unite to host the Ashcroft & District Stampede, which kicks off with a traditional pancake breakfast followed by a colourful rodeo parade down Railway Avenue. Spend the afternoon watching cowboys compete in outstanding rodeo events that offer entertainment for all ages. Finish the day by kicking up your heels at the ever-popular Saturday night dance. September brings the Ashcroft & District Fall Fair. See, taste and delight in the wonderful variety of ‘locally grown’ fruits, flowers, veggies, crafts, art, lively entertainment and beautiful displays at the Ashcroft & District Fall Fair. End the year while revelling in the spirit of Christmas when Ashcroft lights up to celebrate the season with the annual Santa Parade, Santa Madness shopping, craft sales, Christmas teas, Skate with Santa and a stop by the CPR Holiday Train. The Winding Rivers Arts & Performance Society hosts regular music, theatre and art events including a dinner concert series and Music in the Park. UPCOMING EVENTS IN ASHCROFT
