Two of the region's best loved outdoor adventure destinations got a marketing boost from the provincial government this week.
The reservations book will be opened early for both the Berg Lake trail wrapping around the spectacular western shoulder of Mount Robson, and the amazing Bowron Lake canoe circuit.
Nature lovers and recreation enthusiasts from around the world journey to these two tourist options, and they are favourite local trips for people living in the region as well. They are so popular, reservations must be made to fit everyone in and still maintain environmental integrity.
This year, those reservations can be made starting Jan. 2. Touring one or both of these picturesque wilderness destinations can now be a factor in New Year's resolutions.
"These two well-known treks are favourites for international travellers," said Terry Lake, Minister of Environment. "In 2012, the Bowron Lake canoe circuit had 1,003 bookings and the Berg Lake Trail had 1,932 bookings with 22 per cent and 25 per cent of reservations, respectively, coming from outside Canada."
Whether from far away lands or the immediate area, opening up the reservation books early means people can more easily plan their trips to include these northern experiences, and the breathing room on the park ledger to make their trips longer.
Tourism research focused on 2010 shows that 75 per cent of German visitors, 71 per cent of UK visitors, 56 per cent of Indian visitors, 34 per cent of American visitors and 35 per cent of Chinese visitors who visited B.C. stayed overnight at a national or provincial park.
Since tourists have already given the thumbs up to B.C. parks, those will be a major focus of the provincial marketing strategy for 2013, said Lake.
"The strategy focuses on increasing the number of visitors by building on the global awareness generated by the 2010 Olympic Winter Games."
To plan ahead for a prime camping spot, travellers are asked to visit the BC Parks website. Reservations can be made at more than 100 campsites in B.C., 94 of them allowing group reservations. Most other parks reservations are open as of March 15.
