In 2014 a seed was planted. It contained all that would be needed for a thriving Back Country Horsemen group in the heart of the Cariboo region of BC. That seed was watered and fertilized by dedicated members and volunteers and has started blossoming.
The largest project the group was dedicated to was the clearing of a huge section of the Collins Overland Telegraph Trail, “The COTT”. This trail is approximately 275 kilometres long, extending from 70 Mile House in the south to its border with the Bulkley-Nechako Regional District, northwest of Quesnel. In 2019, thanks to many volunteer hours, both on the trail and fundraising, the main part of this was completed, and the chapter hosted a camp-out and ride in celebration. We continue as the main group to support the maintenance of this trail.
In addition to the Telegraph Trail, there are a few other standouts that are popular. Northwest of Quesnel there is the Hangman Springs Recreation site; a shared, multi-use trail system with 20 km of trails. For friends south of the city, there is Sister’s Creek Recreation site, with trails winding through a beautiful Douglas Fir forest, and overlooking the Fraser River. Our group welcomes riders of all ages and experience levels, and hosts many clinics that focus on teaching good horsemanship, along with safe practices when out with your horse. Some of these have included tying a rope halter, highlining, trailer maintenance, and emergency preparedness.
Riders in the North Cariboo enjoy many events throughout the year – poker rides, trail rides, camping, mountain trail clinics – the list is endless!
The following are just a few of our event highlights:
- A camping trip in 2017 to Cottonwood House historic site celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday
- Participating in the Kersley Cowboy Festival in 2018
- The Nam Sing Packing Expedition & Cattle Drive Historic Re-creation in 2019 where riders dressed up in authentic Victorian style and rode a historic path that included riding through Barkerville, a significant mining town in it’s day. (This could become an annual get together too!)
We also take part in many annual events supporting local communities. There is Billie Bouchie Days, the Billy Barker Days parade, Quesnel Fall Fair, and the Senior’s Food Drive.
Many of our events include partnering with other BCHBC chapters, and local groups such as 4-H, Pony Club, Riding Club, as well as our local Working Equitation Chapter.
Our chapter has members from all towns and communities between Williams Lake and Prince George. Meetings are generally held the first Monday of each month, locations vary – sometimes we will get together at a community hall, sometimes at a post-ride BBQ, or around a lunchtime weenie-roast.
If you are interested in learning more, feel free check out our FaceBook group or contact us below.