Cultural Experiences - Xat`Sull Native Village

Step back in time and experience the spiritual and cultural magic of the traditional way of life of the Northern Shuswap People.

This exciting Cultural tour can be one or two days. Leaving Quesnel you will Jet Boat down the Mighty Fraser River following the Paddle Wheelers route to the Soda Creek Town site. The Paddle wheelers were used during the gold rush of the 1860`s to move men and materials to the gold fields. The day will see you passing beautiful pinnacle formations, viewing wildlife, and lunching on your own island in the river.

Arriving at Soda creek you will continue a further 2 kilometers to the 4000 year old Xat`sull Native village. You will be greeted and have a cultural tour of this ancient village site. Xats`ull (pronounced hats`ull ) translates as “On the Cliff “The traditional pit house and Tee-Pees are on a rock bluff over looking the Fraser River. This location was of great importance to the natives as the great Salmon migrations allowed the catching and storing of salmon for the long winter months. When the salmon are returning, during your tour of a traditional fishing site, try your hand at dip netting with your native guide. All Salmon are returned to the river alive and unharmed. If you choose you can overnight in one of the tee pees. A sweat lodge provides spiritual rejuvenation using the time proven techniques beneficial to body and soul, so come and reconnect to Mother Earth. You can have a traditional meal of salmon prepared as a celebration. You will be told of the first people's culture, customs/language/ beliefs. Story telling of ancient traditions, contemporary issues, learn the Shuswap language, enjoy drumming and singing around the cooking fire. Activities that are available, photograph, sketch tee pees, traditional pit houses, Crafts instructed in the traditional method include, Drum making $75, Birch Baskets $45, Moccasin Making $ 65, Medicine Pouch $25, Pine Needle Baskets $50, Bead Work $20.

In the evenings the calming omnipresent rush of the mighty Fraser River soothes the drift of primal dreams. The experience of your visit to Xats`ull will remain with you always.