Salmon Viewing
The Fall season is a great time to visit Wells Gray Country. During September and October deciduous trees throughout the valley begin changing color, further highlighting the brilliant landscapes of the region.Driving the scenic road up to Wells Gray Park is a must this time of the year. The annual rhythm of nature is not only apparent in the color of the leaves, but the migration of bright red Sockeye Salmon.
Located just 5 km north of Clearwater on Highway 5, the Raft River Salmon Viewing Platform provides visitors with an opportunity to experience one of the greatest natural spectacles on the planet. In mid to late August, the salmon enter Raft River by the thousands and search for the ideal spawning ground to lay and fertilize their eggs. The epic journey of the salmon begins hundreds of km downstream at the confluence of the mighty Fraser River. The fish swim 15 days non-stop before they reach the river of their birth. The annual return of the salmon is very important to the river eco- system as it provides creatures from bears to bald eagles with valuable pre winter nourishment. Similarly, the Simpcw people come to gather salmon as they have done for generations before. They begin by thanking their Creator for the return of the salmon by hosting a First Fish Ceremony at the Raft River viewing site where visitors are welcome to enjoy the festivities.
History:
Historically Raft River was the base from which hunting parties traveled. They hunted in the Raft River valley and the mountains to the north.The Simpcw traveled throughout the spring, summer and fall, gathering food and materials to sustain them through winter. During the winter months they assembled at village sites in valleys and close to rivers, occupying semi-underground or pit houses called “keekwillies”. Remnants of these can still be seen in the North Thompson Park.
One of the main village sites was called Ctswen. It was located along side the Raft River. Raft River (Ctswunetkwe) is historically noted as being one of the most prolific fishing grounds in the North Thompson.
The Viewing Platform:
The viewing platform was formally opened in 2003 in an inaugural ceremony with Iona Campagnolo - British Columbia's Lieutenant Governor.In 2004, an interpretive program was created to showcase the Simpcw history and the importance of the Raft River salmon run in their heritage. Special activities and demonstrations from the Simpcw band and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans were created for school classes.
Contact the Info Centre for up dates on the Salmon run as the dates vary from year to year or email info@wellsgray.ca