The community of Barriere
is located 66 kilometers north of Kamloops on Yellowhead
#5 Highway. It is situated at the confluence of the Barriere
and North Thompson Rivers in the Central North Thompson
Valley. The Shuswap Highlands define the eastern side
of the valley, rising to 1,830 meters.
The predominant industry in Barriere is forestry. Two
major mills are located in the area: Gilbert Smith Forest
Products (Barriere) and Darfield Building Products (Darfield),
which is now called North River Log Homes. Approximately
75% of the area's labour force is either directly or
indirectly dependent upon the forest industry.
A growing trend for Barriere is an increase
in tourism. The biggest event of the year is the North
Thompson Fall Fair. The annual edition of the "Fair" is
held on the Labour Day weekend of each year. Among the
Fair's many features are the professional rodeo, chuck
wagon and pony chariot races along with a parade and
rural produce and livestock competitions.
