Red Cariboo Resort – a year in review
As is now customary, we provide a summary of the events and developments at the resort over the past year below.
Weather Review: A Year of Extremes
2025 started unusually mild with temperatures well above average. By the end of February, it already felt like spring before winter briefly returned.
The summer was then particularly challenging. The Chilcotin region experienced record-breaking heat waves and extreme drought. What made the situation particularly tough was that the heat persisted well into late summer – a time when forest fires usually are already under control.
Forest Fires: A Severe Season
The hot, dry summer caused many forest fires in the Chilcotin region. Strong lightning and a long drought resulted in fires that lasted well into late summer.
However, at no point was there a direct threat to the resort – professional fire management kept the fires away from inhabited areas. As an extra safety measure, a new firebreak was established north of our access road from Highway 20.
Forest fires are a natural and vital part of the Canadian ecosystem. They enable nature to regenerate, make room for new growth, and support the health of the forests.
What is impressive is the fire department's excellent monitoring and professional work in reliably protecting people and infrastructure.
Construction measures
Despite the challenges, we managed to finish important projects. The last of our small cabins, Cabin No. 9, has been completed and is now ready for rent.
Special attention was given to landscaping. Green meadows were established, a new bridge leads to the community kitchen, and fences define different areas. The result: everything is now beautifully green and visually appealing!
We have also upgraded the community kitchen – a new smoker grill and new ovens invite you to start culinary adventures.
Our team: Welcome back!
A particularly positive development was the return of four trusted employees. These experienced colleagues know the resort thoroughly, understand what truly matters, and are passionate about the region and the Red Cariboo Resort, especially our horses.
Despite all the challenges, 2025 was a year full of wonderful experiences for the team: beautiful rides through the wilderness, a boat trip on Charlotte Lake, legendary pizza parties in the community kitchen, a big New Year's Eve celebration with fireworks, relaxed evenings playing pool and table soccer, a group visit to the Anahim Stampede, and an incredibly successful ice fishing trip on Anahim Lake with lots of fish caught.
Outlook for 2026
2025 demonstrated the importance of good preparation, teamwork, and flexibility. With the new firebreak, we are even better protected for the future; our accommodations are complete, and the outdoor area gleams in new splendour.
We look forward to welcoming even more guests in the coming year and providing them with unforgettable experiences in the Canadian wilderness.
A heartfelt thank you to all our guests, our dedicated team, our neighbours, and partners who have supported us throughout this challenging year. Without all of you, 2025 would not have been what it was!
Stay tuned — we have many plans for 2026 and cannot wait to welcome you back to Red Cariboo Resort soon, or perhaps for the first time!
Yours sincerely, Axel Opper & Team Red Cariboo