The Fraser River: An Exploration of Heritage and Natural History

The longest of the Canadian Heritage Rivers, the Fraser River played an integral role in the exploration and occupation of western North America. More than 20 years before Louis and Clarke began their journey to the Columbia River, Alexander Mackenzie completed the first continental crossing of North America, canoeing the upper reaches of the Fraser River. His charts enabled subsequent explorer Simon Fraser to traverse the rugged and lethal Fraser Canyon to modern-day Vancouver.

The Fraser River System drains 25% of BC, an area equal to California, and is the greatest salmon bearing river in the world. Participants study the heritage and natural history surrounding the Fraser River System learning about First Nations culture, BC’s political history, and Fraser River ecology. We travel an exciting route to learn through lectures and field trips the stories of the ‘Peoples of the River,’ including the early explorers and fur traders, the Fraser River gold miners and the European settlers. We visit the Fraser River Heritage Centre, Xa’tyem Longhouse, Hat Creek Historic Roadhouse, UBC Museum of Anthropology, Fort Langley and Georgia Cannery National Historic Sites, BC Museum of Mining,and BC Rail Heritage Site.

Start Location:	Vancouver.
End Location:	Vancouver.
Accomodations:	Ramada Inn Metrotown, Executive Inn Harrison
Required Equipment:	None.
Required Skills:	None.
Required Documents:	Passport AND photo ID and birth certificate (proof of citizenship) required for reentry into USA.
Required Inoculations:	None.
Packing List:	Bring comfortable walking shoes, sleeveless tops for warm days, light wind & rainproof jacket & sweater for cool nights and incase of wind or rain during trip. Bring sun screen, a hat, sun glasses & camera.
Luggage Limits:	Please pack carefully as you are expected to handle your own luggage. We suggest one moderately sized wheeled container and a daypack. Laundry facilities located in or close to our hotels are available to refresh clothing and minimize bulky luggage.

Handicapped Rooms :	Not available
Ground Floor Rooms:	Available upon request.
Elevators:	Yes.
Walking Distances:	Field trips will require standing of up to 10 minutes with walking at a slow place of no more than 8 blocks. Walking tours included in the itinerary are planned so that participants may stop and return to a meeting place as their fitness level requires.
Elevation:	Sea level.

Below is the projected schedule for this program. On each full day of programming, 3 meals and various snacks and beverages are included. Please note that slight changes may occur in the case of unforeseen events.