Declared Title Area

Tŝilhqot’in Title Area

On June 26, 2014, for the first time in Canadian history, the Supreme Court of Canada recognized 1,900 square kilometres of land as Aboriginal Title Land. Aboriginal title includes the rights to control the land and decide how it will be used, to use the land for traditional and modern purposes, and the full benefit and ownership of the lands and resources. This area is located within the caretaker area of Xeni Gwet’in.

Under the Gwets’en Nilt’i Agreement, the “Declared Title Area” is being transitioned to full Tŝilhqot’in management, benefit, and control. During this transition phase, we ask all members of the public to contact the Xeni Gwet’in Government office at 250-394-7023 to be informed on any recent changes within the area.

Access and Road Updates

In the Fall, there are often road closures in the title area due to increased Grizzly Bear activity. Please see below for archived and any recent information. For other questions on access and use of the declared title area, please email: jhnlerner@gmail.com.

Visiting

Visitors are welcomed to the title area but are asked to be respectful of the land, waters, and people. 

Please check the BC Parks website regarding camping within Tsʼilʔos Park. For camping outside of the park, please refer to recreation sites on the BC Forest and Lands webpage.

There is one gas station in the Valley. Currently, there is no cell service in the area. For a full list of services go to: Services | XGFNG (xeni-gwetin.ca)

Map

“Visitors are welcome to pursue traditional activities that are in keeping with the wilderness character of the area. Please book guided non-motorized access to the backcountry with Xeni Gwet’in Visitor Centre in Nemiah Valley – check our website for more info.”

Please tread lightly and do not wander off road, across residential property, or disturb old homesteads and equipment. Please respect the privacy of our communities.

Ancient ruins, artifacts, historic remains, and fossils are fragile and irreplaceable, please tread lightly. Artifacts should not be disturbed or removed as they belong to the Tŝilhqot’in and must be left in their place.

Ceremonies are sacred events: please dress and act respectfully. Applause is typically not appropriate as these are religious ceremonies not performances. If in doubt, follow the lead of other community members.

Mechanized and off-road vehicles are restricted to designated roads only – prior to visiting please consult with Xeni Gwet’in and check the website for updated information. Please do not cut trails or clear roads and leave gates as you find them.

Use local guides and established routes for back-country hiking and backpacking.

Please contact us for guides or join one of the several lodges in the area who have signed a protocol with us to protect the land for everyone to enjoy while building a sustainable future together. 

– Tŝilhqot’in People of Xeni (2010)