Built at the junction of the Fraser and Quesnel rivers, this settlement grew rapidly as a way station on the route to the goldfields. By the early 1860's Quesnel Mouth, as it was known then, had two hotels, two stores, the Hudson's Bay Post, a telegraph office, grist mill and lumber mill. Paddlewheel steamers stopped on their way up the Fraser River from Soda Creek to Fort George (now Prince George). Saddle trains packed goods between Quesnel and Barkerville. As in the past, Quesnel continues to attract adventurers on their way to the goldfields and the restored gold rush town of Barkerville.
Reminders of a colourful past survive. Visitors will enjoy stopping at the original Hudson Bay Store (a log structure built in 1859). Across the street is a Cornish Water Wheel and boilers and iron parts from the first Fraser River riverboat to travel to the city. Then stroll the old Fraser River Bridge to west Quesnel. Built in 1928 the old bridge now serves foot traffic only. Continue through Riverfront Park and the walking trail that winds past historic points of interest and along the banks of the Quesnel River. Flower displays on streets and bridges add a picturesque charm to this modern thriving city.
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