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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Hope

Things to do in hope, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hope.

Circle West - Canadian Rockies Round Trip Bus Tour From Vancouver

5-day Rocky Mountains Coho Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Western Trails - One Way Vancouver To Calgary Rockies Bus Tour

8-day Rocky Mountains Caribou Tour from Vancouver

Nahatlatch River Rafting - 24 Amazing Rapids

Fraser River Scenic Rafting Trip

Thompson River Rafting Day Trip

Fraser Valley Day Trip

2-Day Rockies Roadrunner Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Canadian Rockies Summer Private Tour

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Hope

Other Top Attractions around Hope

Multi-day & Extended Tours

Private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

32 Best Places And Things To Do in Hope, Canada

Hope, Canada is a charming town located in British Columbia, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and offering a range of activities for visitors. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Hope:

1. Othello Tunnels

Image Source: https://thatadventurer.co.uk/explore-othello-tunnels-hope-bc/

Explore the historic Othello Tunnels in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. These tunnels were originally part of the Kettle Valley Railway and provide a unique and scenic hiking experience.

2. Manning Provincial Park

Image Source: https://peakvisor.com/park/e-c-manning-provincial-park.html

Head to Manning Provincial Park, situated in the Cascade Mountains. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife spotting. The park offers breathtaking alpine meadows, dense forests, and picturesque lakes.

3. Hell’s Gate

Image Source: https://www.awalkandalark.com/hells-gate-bc/

Visit Hell’s Gate, a dramatic narrow passage on the Fraser River. Take a gondola ride and witness the powerful rushing waters, or take a scenic walk along the suspension bridge. Learn about the area’s history and the challenges faced during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

4. Emory Creek Provincial Park

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g2413004-d6372414-i353830756-Emory_Creek_Provincial_Park-Yale_British_Columbia.html

Relax in the tranquil surroundings of Emory Creek Provincial Park. Enjoy a picnic by the creek, go for a leisurely stroll, or try your luck at fishing.

5. Memorial Park

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hope,_BC_-_Hope_Memorial_Park_01.

Spend some time at Memorial Park, a lovely green space in the heart of Hope. Enjoy a picnic, play sports, or simply relax and take in the beautiful mountain views.

6. Hope Slide

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g181784-d3404368-Reviews-The_Hope_Slide-Hope_British_Columbia.html

Drive along the Hope-Princeton Highway to witness the massive landslide known as the Hope Slide. This natural phenomenon is a reminder of the power of nature and offers a unique sight to behold.

7. Art Walk

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g181784-d1924797-Reviews-Art_Walk-Hope_British_Columbia.html

Explore the streets of Hope and discover the vibrant art scene. The town is home to several galleries and outdoor murals that showcase local talent and add color to the community.

8. Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park

Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coquihalla_Canyon_Provincial_Park

Go camping or have a picnic at Coquihalla River Park, located near Hope. The park offers riverside trails, swimming spots, and a peaceful atmosphere to connect with nature.

9. Chainsaw Carving Competition

Image Source: https://www.hopestandard.com/community/ontario-based-carver-wins-hope-chainsaw-carving-competition-with-chiefs-head/

The Chainsaw Carving Competition is an exhilarating event where skilled artists showcase their talents by sculpting intricate designs out of wood using chainsaws. Visitors can witness the captivating process of transforming logs into stunning works of art in a lively and competitive atmosphere. It’s a unique and entertaining experience that celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of chainsaw carving.

10. Hope Brigade Days

Image Source: https://www.hopestandard.com/community/hopes-brigade-days-once-again-hit-by-pandemic-concerns/

Hope Brigade Days is an annual community celebration held in Hope, British Columbia. This vibrant event honors the town’s heritage and showcases various activities and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Expect lively parades, live music, cultural displays, food vendors, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere during this festive occasion.

11. Hope Arts Gallery

Image Source: https://www.hopedistrictartscouncil.com/hope-arts-gallery

Hope Arts Gallery is a charming art hub located in Hope, British Columbia. It features a diverse collection of artworks created by local artists, showcasing various mediums and styles. Visitors can explore and appreciate the region’s artistic talent while supporting the vibrant arts community of Hope.

12. Hope Golf Club

Image Source: https://hopegolfclub.ca/

If you enjoy golfing, check out the Hope Golf Club. This scenic 9-hole course offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a challenging game for golf enthusiasts.

13. Kawkawa Lake

Image Source: https://www.hopestandard.com/opinion/letter-kawkawa-lake-a-hazard-on-long-weekends/

Visit Kawkawa Lake, located just outside of Hope. Enjoy swimming, fishing, or paddling in the crystal-clear waters. The surrounding trails also offer scenic hikes with beautiful views.

14. Fishing in Fraser River

Image Source: https://fishingbooker.com/blog/fraser-river-fishing/

Cast your line and enjoy fishing in the Fraser River, which runs near Hope. This river is known for its abundance of salmon, making it a popular spot for anglers.

15. Friendship Garden

Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hope,_British_Columbia

The Friendship Garden in Hope, British Columbia, is a serene and culturally rich green space. It symbolizes the town’s spirit of unity and diversity, celebrating its multicultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil environment, beautiful floral displays, and elements representing different cultures, fostering a sense of harmony and understanding within the community.

16. Ogilvie Peak

Ogilvie Peak is a prominent mountain summit in the beautiful Manning Provincial Park, British Columbia. It offers a rewarding hiking experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including alpine meadows and pristine lakes. As a challenging but rewarding hike, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure in the Canadian wilderness.

17. Sunshine Valley

Image Source: https://www.sunshinevalleyliving.com/explore

Sunshine Valley is a picturesque and serene destination located near Hope, British Columbia. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic beauty of this hidden gem in the Fraser Valley.

18. Rafting on the Fraser River

Image Source: https://tourismhcc.ca/rafting-adventures-with-reo-rafting/

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Fraser River. Join a guided tour and navigate through exciting rapids while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding canyons.

19. Hope Cinema

Image Source: https://www.hopestandard.com/news/top-stories-2021-classic-hollywood-reboot-for-hope-cinema/

Catch a movie at the charming Hope Cinema, a historic theatre that offers a nostalgic movie-watching experience. Enjoy the latest films in a classic setting with modern amenities.

20. Wallace Street

Image Source: https://www.realtor.ca/real-estate/25175989/541-wallace-street-hope-area

Take a leisurely stroll down Wallace Street, the main street of Hope. Explore the quaint shops, boutiques, and cafes that line the street, and soak up the small-town charm.

21. Skagit Valley Provincial Park

Image Source: https://peakvisor.com/park/skagit-valley-provincial-park.html

Venture slightly outside of Hope to Skagit Valley Provincial Park, located across the border in Washington State, USA. This park features stunning alpine meadows, scenic trails, and beautiful vistas. Be sure to check the border crossing requirements before planning your visit.

22. Silver Lake Provincial Park

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g181784-d6434596-Reviews-Silver_Lake_Provincial_Park-Hope_British_Columbia.html

Enjoy a day trip to Silver Lake Provincial Park, located southwest of Hope. This serene park offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and hiking, surrounded by lush forests and a tranquil lake.

23. Hope Visitor Centre

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g181784-d8363716-Reviews-Hope_Cascades_Canyons_Visitor_Centre-Hope_British_Columbia.html

Start your journey at the Hope Visitor Centre, where you can gather information about local attractions, maps, and upcoming events. The friendly staff can provide helpful recommendations tailored to your interests.

24. Gold Panning

Image Source: https://tourismhcc.ca/gold-panning-in-hope-cascades-canyons/

Channel your inner prospector and try your luck at gold panning in the rivers and streams near Hope. Experience the excitement of searching for gold flakes and learn about the region’s gold rush history.

25. Hope Recreation Centre

Image Source: https://www.fvrd.ca/EN/main/parks-recreation/recreation/hope-recreation-centre.html

If you’re looking for indoor activities, head to the Hope Recreation Centre. This facility offers a variety of recreational amenities, including swimming pools, ice rinks, fitness classes, and more.

26. ATV and Off-Road Adventures

Image Source: https://www.canadianoffroadadventures.com/

Explore the rugged terrain around Hope by embarking on an ATV or off-road adventure. Join a guided tour or rent an off-road vehicle to traverse the backcountry trails and enjoy the thrill of off-roading.

27. Bouldering in The Hope Slide

Image Source: https://www.mountainproject.com/area/113061969/the-hope-slide

Bouldering in The Hope Slide is an exhilarating rock climbing experience in the rugged wilderness of Hope, British Columbia. The massive natural rockslide offers a challenging and unique terrain for boulderers of all levels. With breathtaking views and opportunities to test your climbing skills, it’s a thrilling adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of the Hope region.

28. Camp Hope

Image Source: https://www.camplife.com/campground/Camp+Hope

Camp Hope is a serene retreat nestled amidst the natural beauty of British Columbia. Offering a variety of outdoor activities, it’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and breathtaking landscapes, Camp Hope provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

29. Hope Station House

Image Source: https://www.missioncityrecord.com/news/hope-station-house-one-of-10-finalists-in-50000-next-great-save-competition/

Visit the Hope Station House, a restored historic building that serves as a museum and visitor center. Learn about the town’s railway history, view exhibits, and browse through a collection of artifacts.

30. Flood Falls

Image Source: https://www.awalkandalark.com/flood-falls-near-hope/

Flood Falls is a captivating waterfall located near Hope, British Columbia, known for its striking beauty and accessibility. A short hike leads visitors to this cascading wonder, offering an excellent spot for picnics and relaxation. The waterfall’s mesmerizing flow and serene surroundings make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape.

31. Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Image Source: https://bcparks.ca/bridal-veil-falls-park/

Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park is a scenic park near Hope, British Columbia, renowned for its majestic waterfall. A short and easily accessible hike leads visitors to the breathtaking Bridal Veil Falls, where they can witness the stunning 60-meter cascade. The park offers picnic areas and opportunities for nature exploration, making it a perfect family-friendly destination amidst the picturesque Fraser Valley.

32. Lake of the Woods

Image Source: https://www.theswimguide.org/beach/7483

Lake of the Woods is a serene and picturesque lake located near Hope, British Columbia. Surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, it offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. Fishing, canoeing, and hiking are popular pursuits, and the scenic beauty of Lake of the Woods makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Places and Things To Do

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The attractive little town of Hope sits 150km east of Vancouver. Don't just race through on your way east to Kamloops, the Okanagan Valley or the Rockies. Take time to walk the marvelous Othello Tunnels Trail, then relax in the peaceful township, knowing that you've left the hustle and bustle of the big city far behind.

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• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By plane
• 2.4 By train
• 3.1 By public transit

Hope is a small town at the far east of the Fraser Valley in British Columbia . Hope is well-known as the gateway to British Columbia's interior, and serves as the junction of four major highways. Outside of the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and Whistler areas, going anywhere in British Columbia by road requires travelling through Hope. Locals like to say that the rest of British Columbia is "Beyond Hope".

While it might be easy to dismiss this small town as just a place to gas up and grab a Timmy's coffee, Hope is justifiably popular as a four-season travel destination. Nestled among mighty peaks, at the confluence of three rivers, Hope is an excellent base for exploring some of the best scenery Canada has to offer. The Hope area offers outdoor recreational opportunities from hiking, downhill and cross-country skiing, fishing, and hunting, to all types of sports in and on the water.

The Sto:lo First Nations were the early residents of the area. Explorer Simon Fraser arrived in what is now Hope in 1808, with the Hudson's Bay Company creating the Fort Hope trading post in 1848. The Fraser River and Fraser Street is named for the explorer, while Hudson's Bay Street and Fort Street in Hope commemorate the town's origins.

Hope was transformed in 1858 and onward by the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush as thousands of miners flooded into the region. Spurred by the gold rush and the desire of the British to solidify their claim to control in the face of thousands of American prospectors pouring in, the Colony of British Columbia was created on 2 August 1858, and the Colony of British Columbia joined Canada in 1871 after being promised a railway connection to eastern Canada, which came through Hope.

Founded as a trading post because of its strategic location at the confluence of multiple river valleys, built up because it lay at a choke point into the gold fields, and today a major junction of highways, Hope exists because of its strategic location as the only way to get to so many places.

Hope was incorporated as a village (District) on 6 April 1929, became a town on 1 January 1965, and was reincorporated as a district municipality named the District of Hope on 7 December 1992.

Hope has been a popular location to shoot films. The first Rambo film First Blood (1982), with Sylvester Stallone, was almost entirely shot in and around Hope. Other movies filmed here include Shoot to Kill (1988), with Sidney Poitier, Tom Berenger and Kirstie Alley; K2 (1992) - the area's mountains standing in for the Himalayas - and several others.

• Highway 1 - West ( Trans-Canada Highway ) follows the Fraser Valley to Vancouver as a fully controlled access route. which merges seamlessly with Highway 5.
• Highway 1 - North - the Fraser Canyon portion of (Trans-Canada Highway) links to Cache Creek where drivers connect to Highway 97 to access Northern British Columbia/Yukon/Alaska or continue on Highway 1 east to Kamloops and beyond to the rest of Canada. Highway 1 north is accessed by exiting at the Welcome to Hope sign, then driving through the edge of downtown Hope and across the Fraser River. This route is generally called "the canyon" by locals.
• Highway 3 (Crowsnest Highway) travels east to Manning Park , and on to Princeton , Osoyoos , and ultimately Alberta via a southern route. It is a 2- to 4-lane road and still contains many narrow sections. This route is known as the "Hope-Princeton" by locals.
• Highway 5 ( Coquihalla Highway portion of the Yellowhead Highway) is a controlled access freeway that winds high through the mountains northeast to Merritt , then to either Kamloops and beyond to northern BC, or via 97C (the "Okanagan connector") towards the Okanagan Valley . While built as a toll road, and still marked as such on some maps, the tolls have been lifted. The route is called "the Coq" (pronounced "coke") by locals.

Important: Highway 5 (the Coq) between Hope and Kamloops is not part of the Trans-Canada Highway, but the high mountain route built in 1986 saves at least an hour of travel time over the older, often two lane Highway 1 route to Kamloops and is therefore preferred by travellers, except during extreme winter weather, when the lower elevation canyon route may be a better choice.

• Highway 7 (the Lougheed Highway) heads west on the north bank of the Fraser River, to Mission , Coquitlam , and eventually Vancouver . This route is a slower route to Vancouver because it is not generally a divided highway and goes through the commercial cores of Mission, Maple Ridge , Pitt Meadows, Coquitlam, and Burnaby before reaching Vancouver. A scenic drive though.

The nearest major international airport is Vancouver International Airport ( YVR  IATA ), 155 km west in Vancouver . Closer is the Abbotsford International Airport ( YXX  IATA ), 70 km west in Abbotsford . Abbotsford Airport offers fewer connecting flights but it is much closer and easier to navigate. The airport is serviced by WestJet, Air Canada, and several car rental agencies.

• Ebus , toll-free: +1 877-769-3287 . Travels daily between Kamloops and Vancouver , and Kelowna and Vancouver on two separate routes. Both routes have stops in Merritt , Hope, Chilliwack , Abbotsford , and Surrey . Travel time to Hope from Kamloops is 2 hours, from Kelowna is 3 hours, from Abbotsford is 1.25 hours, and from Vancouver is 2.5 hours. Same day transfers at Kamloops to and from Prince George are available on three days per week per direction. ( updated Mar 2022 )
• Mountain Man Mike's Bus Service , ☏ +1-778-382-7729 , [email protected] . Twice per week service between Kaslo and Vancouver with stops in Balfour , Nelson , Castlegar , Christina Lake , Grand Forks , Greenwood , Rock Creek, Osoyoos , Keremeos , Princeton , Manning Provincial Park , Hope, Chilliwack , Abbotsford , Langley , and New Westminster . Travel time to Hope from Kaslo is 8.25 hours, from Nelson is 7.25 hours, from Castlegar is 6.5 hours, from Grand Forks is 5.25 hours, from Osoyoos is 3.75 hours, from Princeton is 2.25 hours, from Abbotsford is 1.25 hours, and from Vancouver is 2.5 hours. This service provider also offers a weekly route between Kalso and Calgary via Nelson. ( updated Mar 2022 )
• Rider Express , toll-free: +1-833-583-3636 . Multiple days per week service along the Trans-Canada Highway from between Calgary and Vancouver with stops in Canmore , Banff , Lake Louise , Golden , Revelstoke , Sicamous , Salmon Arm , Sorrento, Chase, Kamloops , Merritt , Hope, Chilliwack , Abbotsford , and Surrey . Travel time to Hope from Calgary is 11.5 hours, from Banff is 10 hours, from Lake Louise is 9.25 hours, from Golden is 7.75 hours, from Revelstoke is 6 hours, from Salmon Arm is 4.5 hours, from Kamloops is 2.5 hours, from Abbotsford is 1 hour, and from Vancouver is 2.5 hours. From Calgary, this service provider offers routes that enable passengers to reach Edmonton , Regina , Saskatoon . ( updated Mar 2022 )

The town of Hope is small, and can be crossed on foot or by bicycle. There are two distinct commercial areas.

Downtown Hope centred on Wallace Street is laid out on a grid that includes numbered streets crossing Wallace St. Downtown fronts on the Trans-Canada Highway (as Water Street) separating it from the Fraser River. Downtown includes city hall beside a lovely central park, a grocery store, lots of places to eat, several motels around the northern fringes. There is an Envision Credit Union with an ATM on the north side of downtown. The Hope Visitor Centre is located at the southwest corner of downtown on Water Street just before it funnels traffic onto highways out of town.

The Old Hope-Princeton Way, found south of downtown and across the railway tracks, hosts most of the gas stations and fast food joints. A Save-On Foods grocery store, RCMP station, and many motels are strung along the old highway route.

By public transit

• 49.377 -121.4418 1 Hope Visitor Centre & Museum , 919 Water St , ☏ +1 604 869-2021 , toll-free: +1-866-467-3842 , [email protected] . 9AM-5PM daily . This is a good place to stop if you're looking for travel information, including brochures, maps and self-guided tour routes. There is a small museum (open from mid-May to early-September) and a gift shop. Some staff members are very knowledgeable about the filming of Rambo: First Blood in Hope, and you may be able to arrange a guided tour of the sites if you call ahead.  
• 49.3793 -121.4402 2 Hope Arts Gallery , 349 Fort St , ☏ +1 604-869-2408 , [email protected] . W-Su 11AM-3PM . Works by local artists. Free . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• Self-guided walking and driving tour of Rambo: First Blood filming locations . Tour includes locations in and around Hope.  
• Self-guided tour of chainsaw carvings , Various locations in and around Hope. Hope is home to over 30 large chainsaw carvings, mostly of British Columbia wildlife. A tour map is available from the Hope Visitor Centre.
• 49.37992 -121.43982 3 Hope Cinema , 376 Wallace Street , ☏ +1 604-860-9832 . F-Su, Tu . Lovely, restored cinema showing mainstream movies. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 49.38108 -121.44428 4 Christ Church , 681 Fraser St , ☏ +1 604-869-5402 . Historic site. Reverend Alexander St. David Francis Pringle arrived in Hope in 1859 and founded the first library on the British Columbia mainland and within two years, also founded Christ Church (Anglican). Today, Christ Church is the oldest church on the BC mainland still holding services on its original site in downtown Hope. It is now a National Historic Site of Canada. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 49.38022 -121.44197 5 Hope Friendship Garden . Is a Japanese garden immediately adjacent to the district hall on Wallace Street. Built by Japanese-Canadians in 1991, it is dedicated to the Japanese-Canadians who were interned nearby at Tashme during World War II. ( updated Feb 2023 )

• Whitewater rafting on the Fraser River. Various companies offer rafting trips so you may want to pick up some brochures or seek advice from the Hope Visitor Centre. Most tours must be booked well in advance.
• Mountain biking . Numerous decommissioned logging roads and the Kettle Valley Railway bed provide hundreds of kilometres of trails.
• 49.38373 -121.42245 2 Kawkawa Creek ( Sucker's Creek ). This is one of the best locations in Hope to see salmon spawn. Fall is a particularly active time of year to witness salmon running upstream. ( updated Feb 2023 )

• 49.38826 -121.43095 4 Hope Golf Club , 900 Golf Course Rd , ☏ +1 604 869-5881 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• Hiking the many nearby trails. Try the Mount Hope lookout (if you're in good shape) or the trails around 49.39327 -121.42071 5 Thacker Mountain . The Trans-Canada Trail runs through Hope.
• Hope Brigade Days One of the largest events of the year in Hope is Hope Brigade Days. Hope Brigade Days occur every year at the start of September. Hope Brigade Days events include a parade, fireworks display, midway, chainsaw carving competition, demolition derby, kids' carnival, and 4x4 racing.
• 49.37949 -121.44099 1 Blue Moose Cafe , 322 Wallace St , ☏ +1 604-869-0729 . Everyday 7:30AM-9PM. Coffee drinks and quick meals. Internet cafe. Live music. Licensed. $4-10. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 49.38191 -121.43465 2 Kimchi Restaurant , 821A 6th Ave , ☏ +1 604-869-0070 . Japanese sushi and Korean food. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 49.37765 -121.44318 3 Hope Pizza Place , 875 Water Ave , ☏ +1 604-869-3330 . W-M 11AM-10PM, Tu closed . Pizza, etc., to take out. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 49.3778 -121.44236 4 Rolly's Restaurant , 888 Fraser Ave , ☏ +1 604-869-7448 . Very good pancakes, pasta and other more casual dishes. Huge food portions for the price and nice atmosphere - a neat little restaurant. ( updated Feb 2023 )

There are no real drinking establishments of note in Hope.

Hope abounds with motels; they number over twenty, most centred around the downtown core.

• 49.37522 -121.43133 1 Heritage Inn Hope , 570 Old Hope-Princeton Way , ☏ +1 604-869-7166 , toll-free: +1-888-869-6577 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 49.37833 -121.36649 2 Kw'o:kw'e:hala Eco Retreat , 67400 Tunnels Rd , ☏ +1 604-869-3799 . Located near Hope, this wilderness lodge and eco vacation experience offers fully-guided eco vacation destination packages, or self-guided eco getaways. See website for information & directions. ( updated Feb 2023 )

There are also a number of private campgrounds, a city operated campground and Provincial Parks campgrounds.

• Fraser Canyon and the Hell's Gate Airtram - The drive along the Fraser Canyon from Hope to Boston Bar is a beautiful journey. The tram ride over the Fraser River is short, but very scenic. Enjoy the ride, but don't expect much from the touristy gift shops, fudge factory and children's activities at the bottom of the ride.
• Manning Provincial Park is one of British Columbia's largest provincial parks. Highway 3 passes through it, taking about 50 minutes to drive between the west gate and the east gate.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Hope

Things to do in hope, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hope.

Circle West - Canadian Rockies Round Trip Bus Tour From Vancouver

5-day Rocky Mountains Coho Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Western Trails - One Way Vancouver To Calgary Rockies Bus Tour

8-day Rocky Mountains Caribou Tour from Vancouver

Nahatlatch River Rafting - 24 Amazing Rapids

Fraser River Scenic Rafting Trip

Thompson River Rafting Day Trip

Fraser Valley Day Trip

2-Day Rockies Roadrunner Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Canadian Rockies Summer Private Tour

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Hope

Other Top Attractions around Hope

Multi-day & Extended Tours

Private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

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Hope and its vicinity offer natural beauty and a lot more. Explore the natural splendor of Hope, including desert canyons, waterfalls, lush meadowlands and rainforests. Two rivers snake between the mountains of the Coast and Cascade ranges.

Reach the Othello Tunnels on foot from Hope along the Kettle Valley Trail. Driving is an option, although parking is limited at peak periods. Walk through five of these man-made railway tunnels that were built in 1914 to connect the Kootenay Region with the Pacific Coast. As you walk through the tunnels, appreciate the nod to Shakespeare given by the project engineer. Trains stopped running in the late 1950s, leaving a pathway for pleasant walks. Views between tunnels are breathtaking. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes.

Look around the town center and notice over 30 carvings that illustrate why Hope is called the Chainsaw Carving Capital. The town hosts the biennial International Wood Carving Competition. Hike up Hope Mountain to Hope Lookout and look down on the town and its rivers, the Coquihalla and Fraser. The climb is moderate and ascends to the lookout point at an elevation of 1,600 feet (500 meters). Take your camera and hike from town to Landstrom Ridge for another incredible view.

Hire a guide for white sturgeon sport fishing. You may hook a fish measuring up to 10 feet (3 meters). Within easy driving distance from town is the Hell’s Gate Airtram that ferries people over the raging Fraser River between the two mountain ranges.

Drive 30 minutes or less from Hope to several parks, including Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park where the Othello Tunnels are located, as well as picturesque Silver Lake Provincial Park. Near Hope airport is an easy hike to Flood Falls that features a waterfall.

Appreciate Hope’s natural beauty. You may feel like you’re part of a movie set. That’s not far from the truth as this is where the cult movie Rambo: First Blood was filmed, among other Hollywood productions.

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Popular places to visit.

• Othello Tunnels

Find out about the history of Hope when you take a trip to Othello Tunnels. Wander the riverfront and forest while you're in the area.

• Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park

Explore the great outdoors at Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, a lovely green space in Hope. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the area's mountain views.

Memorial Park

Explore the great outdoors at Memorial Park, a lovely green space in Hope. Discover the area's art scene and monuments.

• Kawkawa Lake Park

Explore the great outdoors at Kawkawa Lake Park, a lovely green space in Hope. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

• Lake of the Woods

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake of the Woods during your travels in Hope. Wander the riverfront and forest while you're in the area.

Hope and District Recreation Centre

Hope and District Recreation Centre is just one of the places to see in Hope, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Take in the art scene and mountain views in the area.

Things to do

8-day rocky mountains caribou tour from vancouver, reviews of hope.

I love Hope. It's surrounded by such beautiful scenery and is in easy reach of Vancouver. Great place for a weekend getaway, for visiting Maning Park and the Othello Tunnels.

5/5 - Excellent

Great Town, great location and who can forget First Blood..Rambo lives forever in Hope!!

Good value for cost.

Weren’t in town long enough to form an opinion.

We were there for curling! Had a really good time.

Hope has many little gems...the sushi place across from the motel, the heritage theatre on Wallace street, the Blue Moose Cafe and the Othello Tunnels.

Read travel guides and advice on visiting Hope

Insta-worthy destinations to visit with your pet.

• Cities near Hope
• Places of interest
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• Sandpiper Golf Club
• Sasquatch Mountain Resort
• Bridal Falls Waterpark
• Harrison Lake Beach Park
• Bridal Veil Falls
• Harrison Water Sports
• Agassiz Speedway
• Rendall Park
• Harrison Lake
• Sasquatch Provincial Park
• Seven Bridges Trail
• Minter Gardens
• Woodside Mountain Viewpoint
• Canwest Art Gallery
• Weaver Creek Spawning Channel

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Hope and its vicinity offer natural beauty and a lot more. Explore the natural splendor of Hope, including desert canyons, waterfalls, lush meadowlands and rainforests. Two rivers snake between the mountains of the Coast and Cascade ranges.

Reach the Othello Tunnels on foot from Hope along the Kettle Valley Trail. Driving is an option, although parking is limited at peak periods. Walk through five of these man-made railway tunnels that were built in 1914 to connect the Kootenay Region with the Pacific Coast. As you walk through the tunnels, appreciate the nod to Shakespeare given by the project engineer. Trains stopped running in the late 1950s, leaving a pathway for pleasant walks. Views between tunnels are breathtaking. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes.

Look around the town center and notice over 30 carvings that illustrate why Hope is called the Chainsaw Carving Capital. The town hosts the biennial International Wood Carving Competition. Hike up Hope Mountain to Hope Lookout and look down on the town and its rivers, the Coquihalla and Fraser. The climb is moderate and ascends to the lookout point at an elevation of 1,600 feet (500 meters). Take your camera and hike from town to Landstrom Ridge for another incredible view.

Hire a guide for white sturgeon sport fishing. You may hook a fish measuring up to 10 feet (3 meters). Within easy driving distance from town is the Hell’s Gate Airtram that ferries people over the raging Fraser River between the two mountain ranges.

Drive 30 minutes or less from Hope to several parks, including Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park where the Othello Tunnels are located, as well as picturesque Silver Lake Provincial Park. Near Hope airport is an easy hike to Flood Falls that features a waterfall.

Appreciate Hope’s natural beauty. You may feel like you’re part of a movie set. That’s not far from the truth as this is where the cult movie Rambo: First Blood was filmed, among other Hollywood productions.

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Popular places to visit.

• Othello Tunnels

Find out about the history of Hope when you take a trip to Othello Tunnels. Wander the riverfront and forest while you're in the area.

• Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park

An easy wilderness hike will let all family members experience breathtaking views. Discover a beautiful area that’s been shown in major motion pictures.

• Memorial Park

Explore the great outdoors at Memorial Park, a lovely green space in Hope. Discover the area's art scene and monuments.

• Kawkawa Lake Park

Explore the great outdoors at Kawkawa Lake Park, a lovely green space in Hope. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

• Lake of the Woods

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake of the Woods during your travels in Hope. Wander the riverfront and forest while you're in the area.

• Hope and District Recreation Centre

Hope and District Recreation Centre is just one of the places to see in Hope, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Take in the art scene and mountain views in the area.

Things to do

8-day rocky mountains caribou tour from vancouver, reviews of hope.

Seemed like a poor or low income community. But the rain never helps what things look like. It’s RIGHT off the highway so that’s a plus.

2/5 - Disappointing

There are a lot of fun wood carvings throughout the town.

Check out the art gallery...very diverse collection of art with well priced items.

Only driving through to our destination needed a place to sleep

Cute little town.

When I told people we stayed in Hope & the Motel wasn't good they all said to me No one stays in HOPE!!!

• Cities near Hope
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• Hope Golf Club
• District of Hope Municipal Hall
• Heather Meadows Trail
• Harrison Lake Hot Springs
• Sandpiper Golf Club
• Sasquatch Mountain Resort
• Bridal Falls Waterpark
• Harrison Lake Beach Park
• Bridal Veil Falls
• Harrison Water Sports
• Agassiz Speedway
• Rendall Park
• Sasquatch Provincial Park
• Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park
• The Falls Golf Club
• Seven Bridges Trail
• Miami Bridges Walk
• Minter Gardens
• Woodside Mountain Viewpoint
• Canwest Art Gallery
• Weaver Creek Spawning Channel
• Farmhouse Natural Cheeses
• Ranger Station Art Gallery

Photo: Icefield Parkway - Jasper, Vancouver to Edmonton

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Top things to do in hope, bc. become john rambo..

Hope, British Columbia

A look at the things to do in Hope, BC , the places to see, and the people to meet on a one-way car-rental from Vancouver to Calgary. After renting his car in Vancouver, pointing his compass East, Dave shares a Hollywood-inspired reason to stop along his way to Calgary.

The Rambo Tour

"So," says Jim, "This is the bridge that the Sherriff, played by Brian Dennehy, drives Sylvester Stallone across just before kicking him out of his squad car. He tells him that if he keeps walking, he'll eventually get to Portland. Essentially, he's running him out of town because he doesn't like his haircut. And could use a bath. And that's where the trouble begins." "I see." "Actually, it wasn't this bridge." I look at him, baffled. "So why are we looking at this bridge?" "Well they had to tear down the original because it was old. But they built this one to replace it." "And it's an exact duplicate." "Oh, no. It didn't look anything like this one." "Okay." "I don't feel like you're really embracing the spirit of the Rambo tour," says Jim. "No. No, I am. I just wasn't all that big a fan of the movie, that's all." "Hey," says, Jim, lowering his voice. "Keep it down. It's kind of a big deal around here."

It appears that my friend is right. First Blood, the original film in the Rambo movie franchise, was shot right here the town of Hope, in 1982. And the town does seem to have taken it to heart—even if the filmmakers kept the town's name but situated it in Washington State, as so often happens to BC towns used as locations in Hollywood films. Even Vancouver.

But just outside the Hope Visitor Info Center is a plywood likeness of Rambo, wearing an standard-issue undershirt and brandishing a machine gun. There's a hole above the neck, framed by Rambo's trademark shaggy haircut. No one has to tell us what to do:

• Insert tourist face here.
• Have friend snap photo.
• Become John Rambo

Then there's the First Blood walking tour—which is what Jim is conducting now. True, it's no longer a guided tour; it's "self-guided." But even for someone who's not the film's biggest fan, I have to admit that the tour features some beautifully scenic locations.

This place is wet. Hope is where all that moist air blown up the Fraser Valley piles against the mountains and forms clouds, which drop their load. Accordingly, the firs and cedars are tall, thick, and dripping with moss.

It's the perfect place for a veteran of the Vietnam war, driven deep into the forest because of questionable personal hygiene, to hide out. From here, he can strike out at anyone foolish enough to track him into this temperate counterpart of his native element—the jungles of Vietnam.

But of course, track him they do. Only to pay with their lives.

"I heard that Sylvester Stallone never wears a pair of socks more than once," says Jim. I have to ask: "Really? Why?" "I guess he just likes the feel of new socks." "What does he do with them after he wears them?" "I don't know. Probably gives them to some charity for auction." "Huh. Not something I would have guessed about a man who eats tree bark for breakfast and wipes out a crack tactical squad for lunch." "When you eat bark for breakfast you take comfort wherever you can get it." Another stop on the tour (but one requiring a 15-minute drive) is Coquihalla Canyon, which plays Chapman's Gorge in the movie. This is where Rambo has to climb from the river to the rim of the canyon while a sniper shoots at him from what he believes is the safety of a hovering helicopter. I'll leave you to guess how that goes.

Later, Rambo blows up a gas station and some army trucks. These more urban stops are accessible as part of the true walking tour. The film's carpenters constructed the shell of a police station entirely for the purpose of shooting it to pieces. After the film wrapped, the studio that financed the production donated it to the town. It now serves as Hope's Canyon Golden Age Club.

All in all, it worked out rather well for the town of Hope. Certainly, much better than it did for many of the characters and extras who paid the price of picking on one taciturn Vietnam war vet. And while it's far from the only reason to see Hope, for fans of the film—and it is a pretty good movie—it's one attraction among many.

"I can tell you one thing," I say to Jim as we start down the road towards our next stop. "They could have easily avoided all that death and destruction." "How's that?" "Instead of running Rambo out of town, if Brian Dennehy had just driven him to the Home Restaurant , sat him down, and ordered him a piece of that banana cream pie, Rambo never would've blown up the town. He'd probably still be there now." "Eating pie."' "And weighing 300 pounds. You wouldn't need that plywood cutout anymore to get your picture taken with him." "Nope. They'd have the real version, right here in town. ‘Buy Sly a piece of pie.'" "Get a free pair of socks in return." "Now that's a tourist attraction."

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Read more things to do in Hope, BC , including where to find incredible pie.

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Top Things to Do in Hope, Canada - Hope Must-See Attractions

Things to do in hope, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hope.

Circle West - Canadian Rockies Round Trip Bus Tour From Vancouver

5-day Rocky Mountains Coho Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Western Trails - One Way Vancouver To Calgary Rockies Bus Tour

8-day Rocky Mountains Caribou Tour from Vancouver

Nahatlatch River Rafting - 24 Amazing Rapids

Fraser River Scenic Rafting Trip

Thompson River Rafting Day Trip

Fraser Valley Day Trip

2-Day Rockies Roadrunner Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Canadian Rockies Summer Private Tour

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Hope

Other Top Attractions around Hope

Multi-day & Extended Tours

Private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

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Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge

British Columbia, Canada

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Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge is Smithers' only full-service hotel and offers spectacular scenery and warm alpine hospitality. The Lodge in Smithers has about 100 guest rooms, catering, convention and meeting facilities, a fitness room, laundry facilities, a sports grill and Mediterranean restaurant all under one roof.

The hotel is in an easy to find location with ample free parking, providing an excellent base for exploring the region. You can also make use of the sports equipment and board games on offer during your stay.

While this hotel has a simple design, it provides a comfortable base with mountain views and plenty of facilities, making exploring Smithers and the surrounding area easy.

OUR RATING: Simple

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Photos of Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge

A range of rooms are offered at the hotel with a variety of configurations. The décor is inspired by the alpine region with fresh, forest colors and wood furnishings. Large windows provide views over the town, or the mountains and local artwork provides another glimpse of the rivers and mountains. While simply designed, each room comes with a mini-fridge, coffee maker, Wi-Fi, and a TV. Several rooms also have kitchenettes or full kitchens, providing additional space to relax.

The town of Smithers is located at the base of Hudson Bay Mountain, halfway between Prince George and Prince Rupert. The hotel is situated on the main road towards the outer edges of the town but still within a short walk of the various dining options and the visitor center. The town is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts where mountain, river and forest scenery abound.

Food and drink

The hotel is home to two dining options: Noir Kitchen, and Don Cherry’s Sports Grill. The restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner daily, offering a European-inspired menu. The setting has a lodge-style atmosphere with high ceilings, large windows and stone. The grill has a more casual atmosphere with large TV screens displaying sports fixtures and serving traditional pub food.

Tour ideas in British Columbia

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

Grand western Canada self-drive tour

21 days from $9,745pp

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15 days from $11,995pp

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18 days from $7,735pp

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15 days from $4,995pp

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8 days from $2,705pp

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15 days from $9,920pp

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12 days from $5,535pp

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10 days from $5,870pp

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Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.

Abigail's Hotel

Alpine Meadows Resort

April Point Resort and Spa

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British columbia and nearby places.

British Columbia

• Prince George 188 miles away
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• Princess Royal Island 142 miles away
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• Wells Gray Provincial Park 327 miles away
• Port Hardy 281 miles away
• The Cariboo 366 miles away
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• Campbell River 339 miles away

Top Things to Do in Hope - Hope Must-See Attractions

Things to do in hope, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hope.

Circle West - Canadian Rockies Round Trip Bus Tour From Vancouver

5-day Rocky Mountains Coho Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Western Trails - One Way Vancouver To Calgary Rockies Bus Tour

8-day Rocky Mountains Caribou Tour from Vancouver

Nahatlatch River Rafting - 24 Amazing Rapids

Fraser River Scenic Rafting Trip

Thompson River Rafting Day Trip

Fraser Valley Day Trip

2-Day Rockies Roadrunner Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Canadian Rockies Summer Private Tour

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Top Attractions in Hope

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Multi-day & Extended Tours

Private & custom tours, what travelers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Hope - Hope Must-See Attractions

Things to do in hope, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hope.

Circle West - Canadian Rockies Round Trip Bus Tour From Vancouver

5-day Rocky Mountains Coho Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Western Trails - One Way Vancouver To Calgary Rockies Bus Tour

8-day Rocky Mountains Caribou Tour from Vancouver

Nahatlatch River Rafting - 24 Amazing Rapids

Fraser River Scenic Rafting Trip

Thompson River Rafting Day Trip

Fraser Valley Day Trip

2-Day Rockies Roadrunner Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Canadian Rockies Summer Private Tour

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Hope

Other Top Attractions around Hope

Multi-day & Extended Tours

Private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

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Forget the name. Desolation Sound is Canada’s best-kept secret.

From whale watching to bunking at rustic-luxe resorts, here are six ways to embrace the remote wilderness that is British Columbia’s largest marine park.

If you sail into British Columbia ’s Desolation Sound Marine Park on a slightly smoky afternoon, as I did recently (there were still more than 900 wildfires burning across Canada ), make sure you watch out for the huge tides and the weather. B.C.’s largest marine park might have the warmest water north of Baja , but here nature still rules.

As if I needed a reminder, an hour after we’d anchored, a large seal slapped its tail alongside our boat, sending a shower of saltwater down through the hatches onto my laptop. The next morning, a mass of kelp morphed into a gigantic humpback , who exhaled spectacularly foul breath. Rafts of sea otters floated past, warming their toes in the sun.

I’ve spent months exploring B.C.’s coast with my husband aboard our sailboat Heron, and even wrote a book, Uncharted , about our adventures (and misadventures). Of all the remote, watery places we return to each year, Desolation is the most dramatic.

Recently, there has been an astonishing resurgence of life in Desolation’s Salish Sea — more humpbacks feeding , dolphins leaping, and masses of seabirds. Mountain peaks loom over forested fjords where environmental laws have noticeably led to cleaner water and, after decades, more abundant wildlife.

The Pacific Northwest boating set flocks to Desolation’s granite-cliffed coves in summer, but fall is our favorite time. Salmon return to spawn, and the air turns crisp. Here’s what to know and how best to experience the quieter off-season.

The real secret of Desolation Sound

Desolation emerges from the northern end of the Salish Sea just 90 miles north of Vancouver . Since the nearest road is 20 miles south, where the Pan American Highway ends in the tiny fishing village of Lund, the marine park is only accessible by boat or floatplane. Most boaters migrate south after Labor Day, and nature reclaims itself as migrating birds arrive, blanketing the sea. In the off-season, Desolation Sound’s thick forest of cedar, fir, and honey-barked madrone feels once again like the traditional territory of four First Nations , which it’s been for thousands of years.

The real secret of Desolation, says Captain Colin Griffinson, owner-operator of classic 1943 expedition yacht Pacific Yellowfin ,   is to come in the quiet months if you want to see wilderness and wildlife. “My ideal times are September into October, and May through early July. We have one of the biggest bald eagle shows in the world then and nobody knows about it.”

“At low tide, a beach in Desolation Sound is full of food,” he continues. “Because of the temperature of the water, mussels, mollusks, and oysters thrive. This place was a huge food source for Indigenous people for 10 thousand years. The bears know all about it, too.”

( Explore the Oregon coast—but don’t touch the “dragon toes.” )

How Desolation Sound got its name

When Captain George Vancouver and his crew sailed through these waters in 1792 , they were astonished to find that the water was remarkably deep even close to shore. They had no way of knowing that Desolation Sound has the most dramatic drop in altitude from mountain peak to ocean floor in all of North America , with glacier-carved fjords that are a repository of deep geologic time, falling to nearly 2,000 feet.

“Vancouver was looking for rolling hills to farm and good pastureland,” says Griffinson. “The soil here is so bad you can’t grow crops; of course he found it desolate.”

But George Vancouver’s desolation is today’s thriving wilderness, especially in spring and fall when it’s peak wildlife season.

Return of the whales and other wildlife

Whale sightings were rare in Desolation 20 years ago but are now relatively common. The humpback population has seen a massive recovery in the past decade. Orcas have also seen a return, with the exception of the endangered southern resident killer whales . The whales’ return is primarily due to the end of harmful whaling and orca-capture practices.

( Whale watching is booming. Here’s how to do it responsibly .)

“Bears were being trophy-hunted in B.C., and now they’re not,” says Maureen Gordon, co-owner of expedition cruise company Maple Leaf Adventures , “so their behavior has changed as well, and we see all these animals feeding in fall and spring.”

We noticed the sea otter population is also booming. In the 1970s, 89 sea otters were reintroduced to the outer coast of Vancouver Island after having been hunted to the edge of extinction by 19th-century fur traders. This year, for the first time, we saw great romps of them in Desolation and the inner coast.

Desolation draws people who want to disappear—from 1960s Vietnam War draft dodgers to today’s summer boaters, who cruise up the coast in July and August, drop anchor, and hide out. It’s sought after because almost nothing changes, except the tides and the weather. There is a new restaurant in Refuge Cove ; a two-year-old Indigenous lodge in Toba Inlet; a cool new glamping outfit on Kinghorn Island. Aside from that?

A northwest wind blows tumbled clouds through the sky. Rain patters the cabin at night. You peer out the next morning as mist lifts off the water, and the sky at the edge of the continent is rinsed blue again.

6 top experiences in Desolation Sound

Related topics.

• WILDLIFE WATCHING
• WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
• RIGHT WHALES
• HUMPBACK WHALE

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Patients requiring emergency travel for medical care will benefit from a new state-of-the-art fleet of air ambulance airplanes.

“When someone you love is critically ill or injured, they deserve the best and fastest care possible,” said Premier David Eby. “Throughout this vast province, we are building new hospitals, cancer-care clinics and urgent primary care centres. By deploying new air ambulances, we are ensuring patients get the quality care they need quickly.”

BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) is replacing its existing fleet with 12 new Beechcraft King Air 360CHW air ambulances. Nine of the airplanes will be in regular operation and three will be backups. The first of these new airplanes went into service on May 1, 2024. This is possible due to a provincial investment of $673 million over 10 years.

“B.C.’s air ambulances make sure that patients, often with the most critical-care needs, can quickly access the health care they need,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Upgrading B.C.’s fleet with next-generation airplanes means patients will have improved comfort and care during transport, while paramedics benefit from consistent features and layout across the fleet.”

Air ambulances allow patients to be treated by highly trained paramedics while they are being transported. These airplanes are the fastest way to travel to a health-care facility, especially for patients in hard-to-reach areas. These aircraft are used both in emergency medical response and to transfer patients between health-care facilities.

The new aircrafts have several features that will benefit patients across the province, including:

• the ability to land on gravel runways;
• expanded capabilities for specialized care;
• improved patient and paramedic safety through power stretcher compatibility; and
• uniform layout and design that will improve patient outcomes and expanded flight crews.

Air ambulances will remain stationed in their current locations with three airplanes each in Vancouver and Kelowna, two in Prince George and one in Fort St. John.

These new air ambulances build on historical progress to improve ambulance services for patients by adding more paramedics, adding more vehicles and updating fleets of vehicles used by paramedics.

In 2023-24, paramedics, dispatchers and call takers responded to 596,014 emergency medical events and completed 71,198 interfacility patient transfers throughout the province, including 8,290 patient transports involving air resources, 6,177 of which were by airplane. Approximately 70% of calls for air ambulances use airplanes and 30% use helicopters.

Since 2017, spending on emergency health services has increased by more than $475 million, reaching close to $1 billion in 2023-24. These investments have helped to increase BCEHS staffing, training and mental-health support, as well as access to ambulance services across B.C., especially in rural and remote communities.

Learn More:

To learn more about Carson Air, visit: https://www.carsonair.com/

For information about BC Emergency Health Services adding more ambulances and paramedic response units, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024HLTH0066-000754

For information about B.C. government’s work to expand the health workforce, including paramedics, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HLTH0150-001930

Two backgrounders follow.

Backgrounders

Bcehs updates air ambulance fleet with 12 new airplanes.

Founded in 1990, Carson Air is the primary provider of fixed-wing airplane services in B.C. The company also provides air cargo services and operates a flight school. These services are collectively provided from its five bases of operations in Kelowna, Vancouver, Calgary, Prince George and Fort St John.

BCEHS has been working with key partners on an aviation fleet renewal program to upgrade and replace the existing air ambulances. Carson Air became the sole provider of air ambulance airplane service in B.C. as of May 1, 2024.

Carson Air was selected after a procurement process, which involved an in-depth evaluation with BCEHS staff, industry and subject matter experts, external legal fairness advisers and Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) procurement staff.

Features of the new Beechcraft King Air 360CHW air ambulance airplanes compared to the previous fleet include:

• The ability to land on gravel runways – air ambulance airplanes can land and take off in more communities, increasing health-care access for Indigenous, northern, and rural and remote communities.
• patients using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a form of life support that that does the work of the heart and lungs for patients who are critically ill (currently only 50% of B.C.’s air ambulance airplanes can support ECMO).
• neonatal patients in biomedical neonatal transport incubators, the gold standard, which are an improvement over the smaller incubators the infant transport team currently use on the air ambulance airplanes.
• bariatric patients (only one of the current airplanes can support these patients and in a day-time flight only configuration).
• patients in EpiShuttles, a mobile medical isolation unit used for patients with certain infectious diseases (only one of the current airplanes can support these patients and in a day-time flight only configuration).
• Improved patient and paramedic safety through power stretcher compatibility – Paramedics will be able to load the power stretchers from ground ambulances directly onto the air ambulance airplane, eliminating the need to transfer patients from stretcher to stretcher.
• Streamlined uniform layout and design, improving outcomes and expanding flight crews – All the airplanes will have the same layout, with vital supplies stored in the same place in every aircraft. This will make it easier to train paramedics to work on the airplanes and expand the number of paramedics at all levels who can serve aboard the aircraft alongside highly trained critical-care paramedics and infant transport team paramedics.
• more powerful engines with heavy-lift capacity and improved pressurization;
• large (132 by 124 centimetres) electrically controlled cabin door improves patient loading, while the spacious cabin ensures full access to the patient, including four cabin seats;
• latest generation avionics glass cockpit with enhanced vision systems providing exceptional situational awareness; and
• connected cabin allows for future Wi-Fi capabilities to allow paramedics to view status of oxygen flow and capacity, power and controllable lighting via LCD displays.

Air ambulance airplanes come specially equipped in the same level as an intensive-care ward and can be adjusted to accommodate the patient’s needs. BCEHS air ambulances are typically staffed by critical-care paramedics, who have advanced training to provide the highest level of specialized care with a focus on acute interfacility transport, air medical response, and infant, child and perinatal care.

In certain circumstances, doctors and other medical personnel may also accompany patients on air ambulances. Air ambulance airplanes are the first choice in cases that require urgent transfer of patients or when the travel distance is long.

BCEHS is the largest paramedic and ambulance service in the country and is supported by the PHSA. It provides provincial emergency-call taking, dispatch and paramedic health-care services under the Emergency Health Services Act to all people in British Columbia.

It is also responsible for the planning and co-ordination of interfacility patient transfers that require paramedic care, as well as the community paramedicine program, which provides scheduled care to patients living with chronic health conditions in remote and rural communities across British Columbia.

What people are saying about the new air ambulances

Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health –

“These new air ambulances mean that more people in B.C.’s rural and remote communities will have access to specialized critical care, while being transported to health-care facilities best equipped to meet their care needs. We continue to strengthen paramedic services in the harder to reach communities across the province because everyone deserves high-level critical care regardless of where they live.”

Leanne Heppell, chief ambulance officer and executive vice-president, BCEHS –

“We are grateful to be working with Carson Air on modernizing our fixed-wing air ambulance fleets. The ability to move a patient from a ground ambulance to an air ambulance without having to change stretchers is not only better for patients’ quality of care and timely service, but it will also lower the risk potential for injuries to our paramedics.”

Kevin Hillier, president, Carson Air –

“We are looking forward to continuing to service the Province of B.C. air ambulance program under the new long-term contract with state-of-the-art aircraft that have been modified with world-class medical interiors, and to expand and increase health-care access safely and efficiently across the entire province.”

Christopher Singh, critical-care paramedic –

“This airplane allows us to land in more remote communities and reduces the time a patient spends in transit. We’ll have the capability to load a patient directly onto the airplane without putting them through an uncomfortable stretcher transfer. As flight paramedics in British Columbia, we now have more capacity to care for very ill patients with specialized medical needs.”

• BCEHSAirAmbulance_Chinese(simplified).pdf
• BCEHSAirAmbulance_Chinese(traditional).pdf
• BCEHSAirAmbulance_French.pdf
• BCEHSAirAmbulance_Punjabi.pdf

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Michael Mosley’s wife refuses to lose hope amid ‘unbearable’ ordeal

Michael Mosley’s wife said she was refusing to “lose hope” as she spoke for the first time since the TV doctor went missing on a Greek island.

Dr Clare Bailey Mosley was joined on Symi by the couple’s four children as the search for her husband went into its fourth day.

She expressed their gratitude to the dozens of Greek volunteers and emergency workers scouring the harsh terrain of Symi island amid unrelentingly high temperatures.

Speaking for the first time since her husband’s disappearance, Dr Bailey Mosley said on Saturday: “It has been three days since Michael left the beach to go for a walk. The longest and most unbearable days for myself and my children.

“The search is ongoing and our family are so incredibly grateful to the people of Symi, the Greek authorities and the British Consulate who are working tirelessly to help find Michael. We will not lose hope.”

Dr Mosley vanished after he was seen leaving the St Nicholas Beach restaurant at lunchtime on Wednesday.

He and his wife had travelled by boat from Symi town, where they were staying in a villa, to St Nicholas beach on Wednesday morning. The return service was not due until 4pm and Dr Mosley opted to walk home on his own.

His wife raised the alarm at 7.30pm on Wednesday evening when she realised he had not returned to their villa.

Eleftherios Papakaloudoukas, the Mayor of Symi, said “many troubling questions” remained about Dr Mosley’s movements on the day he disappeared.

“You can easily get lost and it’s not wise to walk it in the middle of the afternoon in temperatures approaching 40c.

“Why did he leave the beach and his wife and friends?

“Why did he not take his telephone? From the CCTV footage it’s also clear he didn’t stop for a drink in Pedi or take a rest.”

Video showed Dr Mosely walking through the village towards the rocky hills to the northeast.

“He seemed to be walking very determinedly,” added Mr Papakaloudoukas. “Surely it would have been better to stop and have a coffee or some water but no he decided to carry on.”

Mr Papakaloudoukas promised a thermal-imaging helicopter would be arriving soon to join the search, after saying the sniffer dogs were finding the heat unbearable.

Live Reporting

Key events of the day.

• A thermal imaging helicopter will soon arrive to assist with the search, Greek authorities said. 
• The mayor of Symi, the island where Dr Michael Mosley went missing, said “troubling questions” remained over his movements. 
• Firefighters searched a network of caves known locally as ‘The Abyss’. 
• Dr Clare Mosley, the wife of Michael Mosley, vowed “we will not lose hope”. 
• The Symi mayor said there would be “no chance” of calling off the search before the missing doctor is found. 

Son of British man missing in similar case urges family not to give up

The son of a British man who went missing on a Greek island in 2019 has urged the Mosley family not to give up the search. 

John Tossell,78, from Bridgend, disappeared on Zakynthos five years ago after going on a walk to visit a monastery on Mount Skopos. 

“When I read the story it’s like a cut and paste of my father,” Gary Tossell told Sky News. 

“I wish nothing but love to the Mosley family as I know exactly what they’re going through and it must be awful for them out there at the minute. I want to tell them not to give up,” he added.

Thermal imaging helicopter arriving soon, mayor says

The mayor of Symi has promised there will be a thermal-imaging helicopter arriving soon, after admitting sniffer dogs are struggling with the intense heat.

One group of rescue workers coming off the mountain after a fruitless three-hour shift described the heat as almost unbearable.

The woman, wearing overalls, mountain boots and a helmet, said it was “very hot”.

Asked if she would recommend the area as a trekking route, she told Sky News: “No, absolutely not. Not without equipment and special shoes.”

Local authorities have considered a number of possibilities for Dr Mosley’s disappearance, including that he may have suffered a fall or been bitten by a snake.

He did not have his mobile phone with him, which has hampered efforts to find him.

Pictured: Search teams look for missing TV doctor

‘Troubling questions remain,’ says Symi mayor

Eleftherios Papakaloudoukas, the longstanding mayor of Symi, said many troubling questions remained about Dr Mosley’s movement on the day he disappeared. 

“We know he came through Pedi and then walked onwards towards Agia Marina, it is about two miles and a harder walk than from St Nicholas,” he said. “If he did try and walk that way to Symi then that is a big mistake.”

Mr Papakaloudoukas added: “There are also many troubling questions here. Why did he leave the beach and his wife and friends?

“Why did he not take his telephone ? From the CCTV footage it’s also clear he didn’t stop for a drink in Pedi or take a rest.

“He seemed to be walking very determinedly, surely it would have been better to stop and have a coffee or some water but no he decided to carry on.”

Mosley’s decision was ‘inexplicable’, rescuer says

Michael Mosley appears to have taken a treacherous mountainous path, a decision one of the rescuers said was “inexplicable”.

She said: “The path is not easy to follow, if he took a wrong turn, he would be lost. He could be anywhere; it is a race against time.”

More than 100 police and coast guard officers are involved in the search for the missing TV doctor, alongside volunteers including Dr Mosley’s wife and their four children. 

Firefighters forced to split up due to heat and vast terrain

Firefighters have been forced to split up and are covering vast expanses of steep rocky terrain on their own.

One uniformed worker said there were 10 of them searching multiple summits because it was too dangerous for large crews to work during the summer months.

The rescuers also released a drone as they trekked up a mountainous area through unrelenting heat.

From near one of the peaks, firefighter Stergos Giakoumakis said: “Because it’s not so easy to bring 100 people here, especially this period, because it’s the most dangerous period.

“Everything is dry and it is too dangerous for firemen to search.”

A different team worked in the morning and there was a half-hour handover, he added.

Emergency helicopter brought in to help with search

An emergency helicopter was brought in to help with the search for Dr Mosley on Saturday afternoon

The helicopter was seen at 3.20pm flying over Pedi bay towards the mountainous terrain where the hunt for Mosley is being carried out.

Guidebooks warn that the footpath thought to have been taken by Dr Mosley from Pedi to Agia Marina is ‘technically difficult’ and easy to stumble and get lost along.

It adds the unforgiving limestone terrain is a “desert mountain scape” with much of the path “stony to very stony underfoot”.

Firefighters search ‘The Abyss’ for missing doctor

Patrick Sawer writes: 

As the searches continued firefighters on the beaches and jetties of Agia Marina were seen on Saturday exploring a network of caves known locally as ‘The Abyss’. The caves, which sit beneath a rocky outcrop off the picturesque Agia beach and 15th century chapel, are a sprawling maze of tunnels that can rapidly fill up with seawater.  Asked about where they think Dr Mosley could have travelled to on the island, one firefighter replied: “Everywhere”.  A waiter at a beachside restaurant said: “It’s like a deep system of tunnels, but it is full of water and can spread for kilometres. If there is a hole and you fall, you lose your sense of balance and drown there.  “There is a reason they call it the ‘Abyss’. There is something very strange going on”.  He said staff had combed their  CCTV footage for any sign of Dr Mosley but there was no sight of him.

‘We will not lose hope,’ wife of Michael Mosley says

The wife of missing TV doctor Michael Mosley has pledged she won’t “lose hope” after “the longest and most unbearable days” for her family.

Dr Clare Bailey Mosley expressed her gratitude to the dozens of Greek volunteers and emergency workers searching for her husband in the unrelenting heat and harsh terrain of Symi island.

Speaking for the first time since her husband’s disappearance she said in a statement: “It has been three days since Michael left the beach to go for a walk. The longest and most unbearable days for myself and my children.

Her words came as British volunteers joined the search for Dr Mosley on Saturday as fears intensified for his safety.

A small group of Britons arrived on the island of Symi to join efforts to find Dr Mosley as new CCTV footage of him walking through the port village of Pedi emerged.

Pictured: Volunteers search for missing doctor

‘No shade’ in suspected disappearance location

Firefighters using a drone to search for the missing doctor have said there is no path or shade near the top of the hill that sits between Pedi bay and Agia Marina, where they suspect he may have walked.

Describing the location, they said dead grass juts out between rocks and large boulders, with the only living vegetation being a few small shrubs. 

The search for Dr Mosley — now in its fourth day — is currently concentrated around Agia Marina on Symi island. 

Watch: CCTV shows last sighting of Michael Mosley

Footage obtained by The Telegraph suggests the missing doctor completed a walk to Pedi after leaving his wife at Agios Nikolaos beach. 

Watch: CCTV shows last sighting of Michael Mosley Footage obtained by The Telegraph suggests the missing doctor completed a walk to Pedi after leaving his wife at Agios Nikolaos beach Read more: https://t.co/SjYzICjr9G pic.twitter.com/93INIOi7es — The Telegraph (@Telegraph) June 7, 2024

‘No chance’ search will be called off until missing doctor found

The mayor of the Greek island where TV doctor Michael Mosley has gone missing has said there is “no chance” the search will be called off until he is found. 

“There is no chance we will call off the searches, but I believe they will conclude somewhere today,” Eleftherios Papakalodoukas, the mayor of Symi for 22 years, said. 

Speaking through a translator, Mr Papakaloudoukas questioned how anyone could survive in heat that topped 40C on the day Dr Mosley disappeared.

“There are only rocks, no shade, no trees. With 47 degrees heat you can’t survive,” he said.

Search focuses in on beach marina

Firefighters and volunteers headed for Agia Marina beach and jetties after retracing Dr Mosley’s apparent steps through a treacherous and snake infested Greek mountain path offering no shade from the searing temperatures. 

Read the full report by Max Stephens and Patrick Sawer here .

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Circle West - Canadian Rockies Round Trip Bus Tour From Vancouver

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Western Trails - One Way Vancouver To Calgary Rockies Bus Tour

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Nahatlatch River Rafting - 24 Amazing Rapids

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