October 3, 2025 Escape to the Western Landscape of the Lower North Thompson Valley

If you’re longing for a day trip that mixes sprawling western vistas, quiet riverside spots, and a taste of local flavour—look no further than the Lower North Thompson Valley. From sagebrush slopes to forested ridges, this region offers a perfect balance of scenery and small-town charm. The drive alone is medicine for the soul.

Here’s how you can make the most of a one-day road trip through this beautiful corner of BC—complete with a stop at the new BBQ spot in Little Fort.

One-Day Itinerary:
Western Vibes & Local Flavour

Morning

Depart from Kamloops

• Grab a hearty breakfast and coffee before heading north on Highway 5.
• As you drive out, watch sagebrush hills and dry grasslands gradually transition into greener foothills and forests.

First Stop: Barriere (≈ 45 min north)

• Stretch your legs in Barriere. Check out local shops or stroll by the Barriere River.
• Snap photos of the valley views and rolling ranchland that line the highway.
• Eat at the Barriere Station House or Sam’s Pizza and Ribs! Good Food!

Midday

Lunch in Little Fort

• Just past Barriere, arrive in Little Fort—home to a new local BBQ favourite: Jim’s BBQ Barn, located inside Jim’s Food Market. 
• Open daily from about 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., they’re still finding their rhythm, so go easy as they perfect their menu. 
• Try their smoked meats, sides, and fixings—this is the kind of local eatery that adds flavour (literally) to your road trip. 
• Or try the High Five Diner along the way. 

Explore Rivers & Trails

• After lunch, wander down to where the North Thompson and Clearwater Rivers meet. The riverbanks are peaceful and scenic—perfect for a short walk.
• If you have fishing gear, the area is known for trout and Dolly Varden.

Afternoon

Continue to Clearwater (≈ 1 hour north from Barriere)

• Drive toward Clearwater to get closer to Wells Gray country. Even if you don’t go deeply into the park, the surrounding landscapes are stunning.
• Visit a viewpoint or take a short hike along a nearby trail to catch sweeping valley and river views.

Detour to Spahats Falls

• If time permits, swing by Spahats Falls just outside Clearwater. This fall is framed by basalt and volcanic rock, and its dramatic drop makes for excellent photographs.

Evening

Dinner & Return

• On your return, you might stop again in Little Fort or Barriere if you’re still hungry (or want a second helping!).
• Otherwise, head back to Kamloops and enjoy the changing light on the hills as evening falls.

Why This Trip Works

• It’s doable in a day, yet rich in variety: rivers, hills, rural heritage, and local food.
• The new BBQ joint in Little Fort gives you a unique, on-the-ground taste of the local community.
• You’ll experience “western BC” landscapes—big skies, open valleys, and touches of ranching culture—without needing to go far.