Fraser Canyon

Fraser Canyon is a canyon system in British Columbia that stretches for hundreds of kilometers with dramatically steep rock walls on both sides. The river cuts deeply through the landscape, with walls rising over a thousand meters in places.

The canyon experienced a major gold rush in the mid-1800s that drew thousands of prospectors and spawned new settlements along its banks. This period of rapid change left a lasting mark on the region.

The canyon has been home to Stó:lō communities for thousands of years, who relied on the river for fishing and trade. Archaeological sites at the mouth reveal traces of this long occupation.

The Trans-Canada Highway runs through the valley with several viewpoints along the route for easy access. There are paved paths and marked areas for visitors to explore the canyon safely from designated spots.

At the narrowest section called Hell's Gate, the river squeezes dramatically and creates fierce currents that required special fish ladders to help salmon pass through. This spot is one of the river's most formidable passages.