Spring is the perfect time to hit the road and discover the charm of the Lower North Thompson Valley. As the snow melts and the valley comes to life with colour, this scenic stretch between Kamloops and Blue River offers not just outdoor beauty, but a bounty of delicious food experiences. Here’s how to make the most of a 3-day spring road trip with tasty stops, local highlights, and a dash of adventure.
Start your journey in Kamloops, where you can fuel up with a hearty breakfast at The Art We Are — a cozy café with amazing coffee, house-made treats, and healthy options. Before heading out, stock up on road trip snacks from the Kamloops Farmers’ Market (open Saturdays) or visit a local bakery for fresh goodies.
As you cruise north on Highway 5, enjoy the views of rolling hills and rivers. Make your next food stop in Barriere with lunch at Sam’s Pizza — a local favourite known for its handmade pies loaded with fresh toppings. After lunch, stop by the Teniye Local Market, where you can browse local produce, preserves, and unique artisan items. Let the kids burn off energy at the nearby playground.
Before settling in for the night, pick up premium meats from Rainer Custom Cutting in Darfield — perfect if you’re staying somewhere with a BBQ. Overnight options include charming local motels or cozy cabins nearby.
Start your morning with a light breakfast and coffee from a local café, then take a walk along one of Barriere’s scenic trails. When you’re ready to hit the road, head north toward Clearwater.
Stop at High 5 Diner in Little Fort for a retro-style lunch with burgers, fries, and a milkshake that hits the spot. Once in Clearwater, explore Wells Gray Provincial Park, where spring waterfalls are in full force.
After an afternoon of sightseeing, grab dinner at Hop ‘N Hog Tap & Smokehouse, known for its craft beer, smoked meats, and rustic ambiance. Book a night at one of Clearwater’s lodges or lakeside cabins to rest up for your final day.
On your last day, take the scenic drive to Blue River, a quiet outdoor haven perfect for spring walks and peaceful lake views. Start with breakfast-to-go from a Clearwater café and make your way into the mountains.
Spend your morning strolling around Eleanor Lake or biking some of the local trails. By lunch, treat yourself to a picnic by the water or grab something casual from a local food spot (check seasonal hours in advance). If you’re visiting mid to late spring, you might catch the first blooms of alpine wildflowers beginning to dot the landscape.
End your trip with a peaceful drive back toward Kamloops, full of memories, a camera roll of mountain views, and a cooler packed with local treats.
From warm hospitality and incredible eats to the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the valley, a spring road trip through the Lower North Thompson Valley is the ultimate way to shake off winter and welcome the season of renewal.
Pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with this BC gem!
We respectfully acknowledge that The LNTTS is located in the Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc territory that is situated in the southern interior of British Columbia within the unceded traditional lands of the Secwepemc Nation.
