Something fascinating unfolds at Pavilion Lake in British Columbia’s Cariboo surroundings, beyond the usual trout angling, camping, hiking, paddling, and underwater exploration. Pavilion Lake is the focal point for a collaborative space research venture between NASA and the Canadian Space Agency. This unique partnership has delved into the proliferation of rare freshwater microbialites that have fashioned coral-like formations on the lakebed throughout the last seven years. These ancient microbialites represent some of our planet’s earliest traces of life, flourishing from 2.5 billion to 540 million years ago. Remarkably, Pavilion Lake and its neighboring Kelly Lake support the growth of microbialites in an environment that also sustains various aquatic flora and fauna! Initial discoveries of ‘freshwater coral’ by scuba divers in the deep, spring-fed expanse of Pavilion Lake sparked the inception of this groundbreaking research. What was once considered fossilized coral fragments from a bygone era became intricate calcium carbonate structures meticulously crafted by minuscule bacteria thriving today. With research funding secured, extensive studies commenced quickly, establishing restricted diving zones to preserve the delicate ecosystem. Despite some initial disappointment among divers, they now appreciate the necessity of regulations to safeguard these newfound treasures while aiding in their identification and examination.
Pavilion Lake, situated along Highway 99 in the shadow of Kamloops, is embraced by Marble Canyon Provincial Park on its eastern fringes. This serene oasis has long attracted visitors for camping escapades and trout fishing expeditions. Stocked primarily with rainbow trout, alongside cut-throat and bull trout, the crystal-clear waters remain oligotrophic, supporting limited plant life and fostering a pristine environment due to minimal runoff. Paddling enthusiasts relish the opportunity to glide through the elongated water body, relishing the marvelous chalk cliffs scenery and encountering local wildlife up close. Nestled within the rugged Pavilion Mountain Range, Marble Canyon Provincial Park cradles a spectacular limestone canyon, formerly part of a Pacific island chain. Crown Lake and the picturesque Turquoise Lake are within the park’s boundaries, offering a rustic campground and scenic locales for a leisurely day out. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Crown Lake for a refreshing swim, while climbers gravitate towards Marble Canyon for its spectacular ice falls, considered the region’s finest. The distinctive limestone escarpments, crowned by the iconic Chimney Rock—known as Coyote Rock in Indigenous lore—add a touch of ancient grandeur to the arid landscape. Pavilion Lake’s dry surroundings offer plenty of chances for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts to capture images of the varied wildlife. However, caution is advised due to common wildlife such as black bears and cougars. The turquoise hue adorning all three lakes is a testament to their slightly alkaline nature. Tribal-owned Sky Blue Water Resort on Pavilion Lake, managed by Ts’kw’aylaxw First Nation, offers an authentic escape, renting out cozy cabins, facilitating tent pitches, and providing watercraft for leisurely lake excursions. Nearby Cache Creek, a charming village along the Trans-Canadian Highway, is the gateway to this wondrous expanse.
Steeped in gold rush history, Cache Creek beckons travelers with its unique blend of heritage sites and outdoor pursuits. Hat Creek Ranch, now a living museum, preserves the legacy of the olden days when stagecoaches rattled along dusty trails, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s storied past. The Stuctwesemc (Shuswap) people from the nearby Bonaparte Reserve have painstakingly reconstructed a traditional village beside Hat Creek, showcasing their ancestral lifestyles and craftsmanship. A cultural tapestry weaves through the area, with events like the BC Old Time Drags and Rod Run captivating vintage car enthusiasts from far and wide. Cache Creek Graffiti Days transports visitors to the bygone era, evoking the spirit of the 50s and 60s with retro-themed activities and vibrant celebrations. Pavilion Lake may be tucked away from the limelight, hosting a realm of hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. An idyllic haven for tranquility seekers and sport-angling aficionados alike, Pavilion Lake embodies a retreat like no other in its unspoiled splendor, beckoning you to uncover its mysteries and bask in its natural allure.
