CENTRAL BRITISH COLUMBIA - British Columbia: Including the Alaska Highway - page 552

For those looking for accommodations, a lack of creature comforts is a trade-off for
experiencing the western atmosphere of this historic property. Cabins with private bath-
rooms ($100 s or d) sleep up to six. Other overnight options include tepees ($35), miners'
tents ($35), unserviced campsites ($20), powered sites ($25), and a First Nations pit house
($100). Other amenities include modern bathrooms, First Nations sweat lodges (similar to
a sauna), and a restaurant.
Accommodations and Camping
The Sage Hills Motel (1390 Hwy. 97, 250/457-6451, $70 s or d, $80 with a kitchen) is one
of many local motels that would have filled every night before the highway was rerouted.
Today, it's seen better days, but the owners try their best, keeping the place clean and plant-
ing a colorful bed of flowers out front each spring.
Summer temperatures around Cache Creek can get very high, so the outdoor pool
at Brookside Campsite (Trans-Canada Hwy., east of town, 250/457-6633, Apr.-Oct.,
www.brooksidecampsite.com , $22-39) is a good enough reason to choose this commercial
campground with all facilities, including an outdoor pool, playground, and free wireless In-
ternet.
ECHO VALLEY RANCH & SPA
You can choose between several guest ranches in Cariboo Country, but none comes
close to the luxury offered at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa (northwest of Clinton, 250/
459-2386 or 800/253-8831, www.evranch.com , mid-Mar.-Oct.). Deep in the heart of
ranching country, the resort provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in Western
culture while indulging in the amenities of an upscale lodge. The emphasis is on
horseback riding, with lessons and guided rides scheduled each day, but there are
plenty of other things to do, such as taking a four-wheel-drive excursion into the
nearby Fraser River Canyon, watching a falcon trainer at work, and learning about
native culture. The centerpiece of the sprawling property is an impressive main lodge
built entirely of glistening spruce logs. Inside is a comfortable lounge area, the com-
munal dining room overlooking an open kitchen, and a downstairs billiards and TV
room. Adjacent is an impressive Baan Thai structure, with full spa services, and the
Pavilion, for quiet contemplation.