Did you know Access BC was developed out of a need to improve accessible outdoor spaces and recreational tourism opportunities in BC?
Since 2007, we’ve audited more than 500 outdoor spaces, formed partnerships with tourism associations across the province, created travel guides, supported the development of accessible recreation spaces, and much more. Take a look at some of our highlighted work below.
Featured story: Tse’k’wa Heritage Society
Accessible tourism happens when we work together.
In 2021, Spinal Cord Injury BC’s Access BC program partnered with the Tse’k’wa Heritage Society to evaluate accessibility and inclusion of the Tse’k’wa National Historic Site (formerly known as the Charlie Lake Cave), located just outside Fort St. John.
Dane-zaa Elders and Knowledge Holders played a central role, guiding sustainable, inclusive planning that supports participation across generations. Access BC’s assessment led to tangible improvements, including accessible routes, washrooms, and parking. A key outcome was the creation of an accessible amphitheatre, now a vital space for community gatherings and cultural events.
The partnership continues today. With financial support from PacifiCan, Access BC and the Tse’k’wa Heritage Society collaborated on a 360° Virtual Tour of the site, now available on Google Maps, expanding access for visitors near and far.
Led by the insight and perseverance of Dane-zaa Elders, the reclamation of Tse’k’wa has become a model for inclusive cultural preservation. As its reputation as a learning and tourism destination grows, so does its impact.
In recognition of this work, the Tse’k’wa Heritage Society received the Indigenous Operator of Experience Award at the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Awards, with Access BC named a finalist in the Innovation Category.
Recent Highlights
Stories:
Hello BC listings with information from our accessibility assessments:
- Scout Island Nature Centre in Williams Lake (in partnership with the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association)
- Mount 7 Lodges in Golden (in partnership with the Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association)
- Tsawaak RV Resort in Tofino (in partnership with 4VI/Tourism Tofino)
- Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve in Chilliwack (in partnership with Vancouver, Coast, and Mountains/Destination BC)
Google virtual tours (with Jody Wall Photography):
- Great West Life Mobility Trail in Prince George (in partnership with Northern BC Tourism Association/Tourism Prince George)
- Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge (in partnership with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association)
- Tsawaak RV Resort in Tofino (in partnership with 4VI/Tourism Tofino)
- Mackenzie Beach in Tofino (in partnership with 4VI/Tourism Tofino)
Access BC in the News
Our work has been making waves in the headlines since 2007. Here are just a few of the news stories that have helped share our vision for making BC the most accessible province with a larger audience.
Are you interested in writing a story or featuring Access BC in an article? Please reach out to sni@sci-bc.ca for all media inquiries.
2021 Highlight Report
As part of our continued dedication to make BC more accessible, we have provided a summary of our highlighted work to date to the provincial government. Read our 2021 Program Highlights Report to learn more about the progress we’ve made and our future plans!
Photos and Videos
The Access BC team has been everywhere from Fort St. John to the Pacific Rim! And we’ve made sure to capture photos and video along the way to showcase our work in creating more accessible outdoor spaces.
Check out some of our favourite videos below, or head over to our Facebook page to view photos.
Get In Touch
If you’d like to learn more about Access BC, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you!
General Inquiries: Nancy Harris
Media Inquiries: Sophie Ni