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History
The area known as the Bridge River Valley has a rich and fascinating history, full of railways, ghost towns, flooded valleys, old mines, and trails. Since the year 1859, when gold was first discovered on Bridge River, this region has been home to miners and their families.
The big gold rush began in the 1930's at the Bralorne-Pioneer Mine near Gold Bridge. It was the richest gold claim in Canada, producing more than $145 million in gold. It closed in 1970.
Visit the past as you wander the old mine ruins and ghost towns. The scenery is dramatic with rugged mountains, intricate river canyons, rushing streams and deep blue lakes.Gold Bridge had a hotel, bakery, newspaper and a few other amenities not discussed in polite company. Although the mines have closed, Gold Bridge and area is now a resort community with guest ranches and lodges. This community of approximately 100 residents enjoys the peace and quiet of the mountains, valleys, lakes, and rivers that make up the region.
Location
Gold Bridge is located in the Bridge River Valley, 4-1/2 hours north of Vancouver, and 1-1/2 hours west of Lillooet.
Places to See
- Bralorne Pioneer Museum
The Bralorne Pioneer Museum Society was formed in 1977 to preserve the history of the Bridge River Valley, which consists of several small communities: Bralorne, Gold Bridge, Gun Creek, Gun Lake, Tyax Lake, and Marshall Lake. Some of the historical buildings still standing are the Bralorne Mine, Bralorne Hospital, Boultbe Memorial Church (recently restored by the Bridge River Valley Community Church Society), Jail House, the Model Bakery, the Bralorne-Pioneer Office Building (now a motel), and the Bralorne Community Hall.
The museum itself is located in the old Industrial Ed. Shop of the Bralorne High School, and is usually open throughout the summer months on weekends. It contains mining artifacts and historical data on the communities Pioneer, Bralorne, and Gold Bridge. There are sections on :hockey, bowling, baseball, weightlifting, sking, and rifle shooting, as well as older pictures of school activities.
- Tyaughton Lake
The beautiful snow-covered mountains surrounding Tyaughton Lake rise to nearly 10,000 feet.
- Historical Buildings
The Bridge River Valley includes a number of historical buildings that are still intact, including Bralorne Hospital, Boultbee Memorial Church, the Old Catholic Church, the Jail House, the Model Bakery, the School Gym, the Bralorne Pioneers Mines Office building, and the Bralorne Pioneer Mine.
Things to Do
- Gold Panning
Relive the days of the Cariboo Gold Rush by spending an afternoon panning for gold.
- Hiking
Explore the trails created by prospectors during the gold rush, and take in the gorgeous mountain vistas, the sparkling lakes and streams, and the meadows of wild flowers. Be on the lookout for mule deer, moose, and grizzly bears. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats can be found on the mountain slopes.
- Fishing
The many lakes and streams in the Bridge River Valley abound with rainbow and eastern brook trout, kokanee, Dolly Varden, and whitefish.
- Mountain Biking / Horseback Riding
Mountain biking and horseback riding are ideal during the summer, with dozens of trails to explore throughout the valley. Mountain bike tours are available within fifteen minutes of Gold Bridge.
- Snowmobiling
Forest service roads and historic mining roads provide comfortable riding for beginners of all ages. Those looking for a greater challenge can try one of the many notable backcountry destinations, including the Noel Valley, Taylor Basin, Lone Goat, and Slim Creek.
Events
- Gold Bridge Community Club's Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast
April - Bring the family out to the Gold Bridge Community Hall for a fun easter egg hunt and a tasty pancake breakfast.
- Bralorne Invitational Ball Tournament
Every year during the July long weekend, Gold Bridge hosts the Bralorne Invitational Ball Tournament.
- Bridge River Open Golf Tournament
August - Come out to the Gold Bridge Golf Course and tee off against other golfers.
- Bridge River Idol- Karaoke Contest with Rockin Rosie
August - Who will be Gold Bridge's next singing sensation? Takes place at the Gold Bridge Hotel.
Contact Information
Bridge River Valley Economic Development Society and Tourist Info
104 Haylmore Avenue
Gold Bridge, BC V0K 1P0
Phone/Fax: 250-238-2534
E-mail: info@bridgerivervalley.ca
Website: www.bridgerivervalley.ca
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