The Wells, Barkerville, Bowron Lakes area is a great place to explore. A unique mountain wilderness full of arts, history and adventure, this amazing area is one of British Columbia's truly undiscovered gems.

Originally a company town managed by the Cariboo Gold Quartz Mine, Wells was a thriving community of 4500 during the 1930s. In 1942, Wells had a population larger than either Quesnel or Prince George. However, when the mines closed in 1967, Wells was eclipsed by the larger centres. Today, with restored heritage buildings a vibrant arts scene and amazing scenery, Wells is becoming famous as a destination for the arts, heritage and for outdoor adventure. The town is the bedroom community for Barkerville Historic Town and the gateway to Bowron Lake Provincial Park, one of the top canoeing circuits in the world.

Be sure to make your first stop in the community the newly constructed Wells and Area Visitor Centre and rest area at the Jack O'Clubs Lake Pullout at the end of Jack O'Clubs Lake. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will be able to assist you in all facets of your journey, including() information on the abundant local entertainment choices, as well as dining, accommodation, groceries, local ambulance and police services. A must see on your visit to Wells is the Wells Museum. Located in the former Island Mountain Mine office, (first left turn past Jack O'Clubs Lake on Hwy. 26), the Wells Museum offers a fascinating history of the community, and is a great place to start exploring this charming community.

Wells is a small, safe community, a fabulous place to live. Many people have chosen to get away from the hectic pace of the city and take up a better life-style. Surrounded by wilderness and all of the benefits of rural living, Wells is a close-knit community with a school, church, shops, and services; plus all the conveniences of a larger centre, such as high-speed internet and municipal water and sewer.

It is pedestrian oriented and small enough that you can walk, bike or ski everywhere. We have a strong arts community, an excellent arts curriculum in our elementary school, more galleries and artists studios per capita then anywhere else we know of, and cultural events ranging from concerts, courses in the arts, live theatre and more. The local arts school, Island Mountain Arts, offers a variety of courses throughout the summer and hosts the world famous ArtsWells Festival on the August Long Weekend, while the newly renovated Sunset Theatre offers live theatrical offerings (). Wells also boasts numerous galleries, studios and shops.

Recreation trails abound on the meadow and mountains surrounding Wells. In summer and winter, venture into the backcountry with local tour operators or on your own to enjoy scenic views, fresh air and peaceful surroundings.

Multi-use trails include hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and dog-sledding, and there are roads for ATVs and 4WD vehicles.

Barkerville Historic Town located 8 km from Wells is a world-famous historical attraction. Each year, thousands of visitors from all over the world travel to the foothills of the Cariboo mountains to take in this one of a kind heritage attraction, much like miners and prospectors did during the original gold rushes.

In 1861, a miner named Billy Barker arrived in the region, along with a wave of prospectors from all over North America and the world. While here, Barker struck a fabulously rich pay streak. As a result, in 1862, Barkerville was born, helping set the stage for the settlement of British Columbia and its eventual confederation with Canada.

Today, Barkerville is a historic site like no other. Unlike many gold rush towns from this era - which have long since disappeared – Barkerville remains a thriving place, rich in history and full of life. You can tour the town with one of the colourful characters from Barkerville's past, watch the notorious Judge Begbie strike fear into the hearts of history's criminals, witness authentic gold rush theatre, and see a real Cornish Waterwheel in action. Pan for gold with your family and friends, visit Barkervilleís well preserved Chinatown, and go back to school in the 1800s. Or, learn about the town at your own pace by visiting our historic buildings and beautiful displays. Our town's merchants, restaurants and accommodations will provide you with everything you need for a genuinely comfortable trip into the province's past.