Explore the North - 2019

2019 EDITION

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INSIDE Welcome to the middle of nowhere......... 4 Cover photo runner-ups............................................. 5 The hub of northern B.C............................................. 6 Celebration of creativity............................................. 7 Events in Downtown Prince George......... 8 Parks and trails in Prince George............. 10

2019 Explore the North

COVER PHOTO Winner Jane Ritchey

North of Prince George Huble Homestead........................................................... 12 Chetwynd................................................................................... 13 Hudson’s Hope................................................................... 14 Dawson Creek..................................................................... 14

East of Prince George McBride......................................................................................... 17

South of Prince George Barkerville.................................................................................. 19 Quesnel......................................................................................... 20 Williams Lake........................................................................ 23

This picture was taken in the Blueberry region near McBride. It is beautiful alpine region surrounded by mountains with numerous hiking possibilities. The photo was taken last August on the only non-smoky day of some of the mountains visible from camp.

View the cover photo runner-ups on page 4, plus you can see many of the submissions throughout the pages of this magazine!

The Citizen thanks all those who submitted photos for this publication.

Unfortunately not all the great photos we received could be included due to limited space.

Available online at www.pgcitizen.ca Published by

West of Prince George Vanderhoof.............................................................................. 24 Smithers....................................................................................... 25 Kitimat

Colleen Sparrow Publisher

Neil Godbout

Shawn Cornell

Lisa Giesinger

Editor

Advertising Director

Business Manager

BC Provincial Parks Directory Prince George & Area............................................... 27 East of Prince George.............................................. 27 West of Prince George........................................... 28 North of Prince George.......................................... 30 South of Prince George......................................... 33 Map of Northern B.C.................................................. 34

Dana Young Advertising Consultant

250-552-1540

Aaron Baumbach

Anne Kiteley

Deanne Cornell

Advertising Consultant

Advertising Consultant

Advertising Consultant

250-981-6131

250-961-6229

250-565-8431

250.562.2441 • Prince George, B.C. • pgcitizen.ca The Prince George Citizen is a division of Glacier Media Group. Copyright ©2019. All rights reserved.

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welcometonorthernbc

Welcome to the middle of nowhere For urbanites who feel half a kilometre from the nearest Starbucks is a human rights violation and the prospect of not having cell service would be an apocalyptic crisis, being in the middle of nowhere is the equivalent of arriving at the seventh gate of hell. Let those big city hipsters be and leave the magnificent glory of the middle of nowhere to those of us who know better.

To explore the north, far from the madding crowd, is to embrace the middle of nowhere as the place you’ve been yearning to be. The middle of nowhere is so many places, from a forest trail opening up onto a lush mountainside plateau to a cold, isolated lake, but it is that place where visitors find peace and relaxation in the enormity of nature.

The only use for your cell phone in the middle of nowhere is to take pictures and shoot video of you and your friends and family discovering how much joy being in the middle of nowhere provides – from paddling a canoe at first light to staring into the night sky in awe of the number

of stars and constellations visible in the middle of nowhere, away from the pollution of city lights.

The pictures and video won’t do it justice, of course, but they will help take you back when you’ve returned home. There aren’t enough gigabytes in the world to capture the middle of nowhere because it is an immersive experience that combines sounds, sights, smells, touch and even taste. Only being there, surrounded by it, with that powerful organic computer between your ears taking it all in, will do. That’s why people come from all over the world to visit Northern B.C. and be northern explorers.

All of the amenities of the modern world are close enough when you may need them and some of them – that tent, that trailer, that fishing rod, those hiking boots and an extra bag of marshmallows – are worthy companions to make the middle of nowhere the best it can be.

Have fun and enjoy your stay in the middle of nowhere, the somewhere you’ll never forget.

The view from the top of the Nechako cutbanks always makes the walk up worthwhile, but particularly in autumn! Photo submitted by Glen Mikkelsen 4

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Cover photo runner-ups

PHOTO ABOVE: Hiking the Blueberry Trail, near McBride B.C. The country is unspoiled and the views are spectacular. Photo submitted by Janie Laundry PHOTO RIGHT: Larry and Olive love to go for a ride on the Quad, photo was taken in the Hixon area. Photo submitted by Pat Suter

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I like to call this photo ‘Whooooo ..... are you?’ (It reminds me a song by The Who). This is a Northern Pygmy owl that happened to be sitting on our clothesline in Pineview (Prince George area) one afternoon. He was just a little guy, full grown. He was staring right at me as you can see. He wasn’t scared, he even hung around for a half hour or so. It was wonderful having such a beautiful bird so interested in me! Photo submitted by Holly Miller

The Hub of Northern B.C. Welcome to Prince George, the hub of northern British Columbia, where urban amenities exist minutes from spectacular wilderness opportunities. This lively and welcoming city is located in the heart of British Columbia and we invite you to take in all that we have to offer.

Some of our unique cultural offerings include; Pacific Western Brewing, the first brewery to produce canned beer in British Columbia, Northern Lights Estate Winery, B.C.’s northernmost fruit winery, Prince George Airport, home to Canada’s fourth longest runway, Park Drive-In Theatre, one of only three drive-ins left in B.C., the University of Northern British Columbia, Canada’s Green University, and the Wood Innovation Design Centre, the awardwinning tallest wood building in North America.

Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in a multitude of watersports at any one of our 1,600 lakes and rivers within a 100km radius, or stroll along the City’s Centennial Trail, 30km of maintained walking trails. Ski, snowshoe, and bike at Otway Nordic Centre, Canada’s only fully lit 10km of cross country ski trails. Discover accessible trails that weave through serene 6

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forests beside calming streams at the Great West Life Mobility Trail or B.C.’s newest Provincial Park, the Ancient Forest/Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park.

Downhill ski or snowboard at one of three hills within a two hour radius, including the Hart Ski Hill, located within the city boundary and equipped with its own snowmaking machine. Get outside, experience our wilderness, and then spend the evening appreciating the amenities of our city.

Nourish your body with locally created food that reflects our northern region. Unwind by meandering through local museums, galleries, and historic sites. Attend a festival or community event and mingle with the people that call this place home.

Replenish your supplies before continuing your journey. Prince George is home to a diverse range of shopping experiences. Shop in the downtown area to browse locally owned businesses for unique products or find familiar items at major chain stores in numerous areas in Prince George, including at Pine Centre Mall, home to nearly 100 stores.

Submitted by Tourism Prince George

Celebration of Creativity Two Rivers Gallery is thrilled ticipation of our friends at The to present the 30th annual BMO Exploration Place, Prince George KidzArt Dayz! This year on July Railway and Forestry Museum, 5th and 6th we look forward to Huble Homestead Historic Site, welcoming over 12,000 people of and many more. BMO KidzArt all ages learn and create through Dayz Coordinator, Emilio Caputo, art, music, and movement. BMO exclaims, “I am incredibly excited KidzArt Dayz is a special time of for this year’s BMO KidzArt Dayz. year for the Gallery, as it gives The event is an opportunity for the community a space to engage people of all ages to collaborate with people of all generations and and learn as a community. I enjoy connect with one another through the ability for art to connect creative expression. people, and for me, BMO KidzArt There will be a large venue Dayz is a chance to do that. Art is for creativity, with more than 25 about exploring and celebrating hands-on art activities available creativity, and I think that’s why throughout the Canada Games this event is so important for the Plaza and in the gallery itself. community.”

There will also be a variety of BMO KidzArt Dayz couldn’t food vendors providing tasty happen without our supporttreats throughout the days. On ers, and it is amazing how much stage, Rup Loops will be performsupport goes into the event. We ing an interactive demonstration owe a special thanks to BMO of his moniker, the Human Radio, Bank of Montreal, the City of and how the body can be used as Prince George, Regional District a musical instrument. Michelle of Fraser-Fort George, CKPG, 99.3 Hersey will be performing as Ta the Drive, 101.3 The River, The Daa Lady with her Nylon Zoo, Citizen, Emily Carr University of where she uses costumes and Art + Design, Northern Developinflatable sculptures in interacment Initiative Trust, Canadian tive storytelling that is fun for the Heritage, and our volunteers who whole family. Candice George is a allow us to continue this celebrasinger, storyteller, and cultural fa- tion of creativity. cilitator who will share music and Submitted Article oral histories to engage the audience with the importance of cultural expression and the preservation of traditional practices. Visual artists Sebastian Nicholson and Cat Sivertsen will be working with the community to create collaborative art projects. Carolyn Holmes, Executive Director of Two Rivers Gallery, explains, “BMO KidzArt Dayz is an annual highlight for Two Rivers Gallery and a flagship event for the region. We are proud to offer two free days full of activities and entertainment, aimed at engaging children and their families in creative celebration.”

BMO KidzArt Dayz is Photo submitted by Two River’s Galle enhanced by the parry princegeorgeandarea

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SUBMITTED PHOTO

Events in Downtown Prince George Written by Colleen Van Mook Executive Director, Downtown Prince George

Downtown Prince George celebrates 20 years of ‘supporting downtown’, operating as a Business Improvement Area organization since 1999. The association serves all property owners and business tenants in the 41 blocks that make up the Downtown C1 Zone. As downtown champions, the Board and staff, strive to promote and advocate for a better downtown through partnerships, programs, promotions and events.

“We are working really hard to create a great environment in Prince George’s downtown and not just for some, but for all. Every Prince George citizen and our visitors, deserve a good quality experience when they come downtown,” says Colleen Van Mook, Executive Director, Downtown DOWNTOWN

Take To The sTreeTs!

Summer just isn’t summer until you have attended Downtown Summerfest when everyone is invited to, ‘Take to The Streets’! You don’t need a better excuse to hang out with your friends and family in Prince George’s downtown.

On Sunday July 14th, 2019 from 11am to 5pm, you will find great food, live entertainment, exciting activities, fascinating vendors and literally…something for everyone!

Everywhere you look there will be people smiling, enjoying incredible food and just being social.

The Canadian Western Bank Taste Pavilion introduces festival 8

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Prince George.

Hosting special events are important to the quality of life in every community. Hosting events in Prince George’s downtown provides the opportunity to enhance and celebrate culture, showcase talent and gather people together for a positive experience. Special events have become a way to celebrate the vibrancy of the downtown neighborhood by inviting the whole community to join the fun. With the support of generous public and private supporters, Prince George’s downtown is host to several great seasonal events. goers to local restaurants with masterful chefs who spend months deciding which two items will tantalize your taste buds the most. The aroma of delicious food fills the air, finding a way to tempt just about any appetite. The music on the TD Mainstage has people tapping their feet and clapping their hands to the beat. The downtown streets are alive with laughter and ‘extraordinary’ is what you get. Fun just has a way of happening in the Community Kidz Zone. It’s always entertaining to see the delight on the faces of the passengers, big and small, riding the Cottonwood Express mini rail train. Even the animals from Black Spruce Petting Farm love the attention and the treats from all the kids. Exhibitor Alley has

become the summer showcase for over 60 vibrant vendors and organizations, all in one place. The

whole family will thank you for making 2019 Downtown Summerfest part of your weekend plans.

Downtown Prince George has also created a fun way to introduce the holiday season to downtown. Plaid Friday is a relaxing and enjoyable alternative to “Black Friday”, taking place on the same day. The name, Plaid Friday, was conceived from the idea of weaving the individual threads of

small businesses together to create a strong fabric that celebrates the diversity and creativity of independent businesses. This special day kicks off a great campaign to promote downtown and its many local and independently owned businesses making for great holiday shopping and celebrating.

On November 22, 2019, the festive spirit will come alive downtown with stolling carolers, bright lights, swag giveaways, visitors from the North Pole and a whole lot of plaid.

We visited Winterfest in downtown Prince George in February and posed for some fun pictures in the snow wall. Photo submitted by Janie Laundry

Downtown Prince George now hosts the annual Downtown Winterfest event inviting everyone to “Come Celebrate Winter”. On Sunday February 9, 2020 from 11am to 4pm, downtown will be transformed into the ultimate winter playground. On this frosty day, downtown becomes the hot spot where the whole family can embrace the cold with a variety of fun winter activities for all ages. You can warm your tummy with delicious SMORES while supporting local charities as part of the THERE’S S’MORE DOWNTOWN contest. When it’s time to come inside, out of the cold, the indoor WINTER MARKET features fabulous exhibitors and local merchants with unique products and services for all tastes and interests.

When you come to the 2020

Downtown Winterfest, you will also experience a spectacular display of snow and ice art that will leave you awestruck. An award-winning team of sculpture artists create a downtown winter wonderland that includes an ice slide! It’s literally so ‘cool’ to see all ages enjoying the thrill of the slide! The collaboration with many community partners rounds out the day with SNOW MUCH FUN and a variety of activities taking place inside and outside.

The truth is that there is always something happening downtown. From live music at one our restaurants, a great sale at one of our unique shops or a new vendor at the Prince George Farmer’s Market, there is so much to take in. Check out the event calendar on the Downtown Prince George website to decide what your next stop in Prince George’s downtown can include.

Downtown Prince George info@downtownpg.com 250-614-1330 www.downtownpg.com princegeorgeandarea

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Early morning sun rise in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park. CITIZEN PHOTO by Brent Braaten

Parks and trails in Prince George Centennial Connector Trail Loop The 30-kilometre Centennial Connector Trail Loop was created to mark Prince George’s 100th Anniversary. Each kilometre is marked with a blue sign post.

Some of the Connector Trail Loop’s highlights include: Sidewalks, paved pathways, and rustic trails within the City’s bowl area.

Crankbrook Hill |Greenway Trails The Cranbrook Hill Greenway is 300-hectare green space located on the City’s western edge that has trails running through forested lands and meadows. Over 25km of multi-use trails that can accommodate a variety of seasonal outdoor, non-motorised activities like biking, hiking, horseback riding, jogging, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Forests for the World Forests for the World is a 106-hectare demonstration forest that features an extensive 15km long rustic trail system. Located within the park is Shane Lake, a prime trout-fishing spot which is accessible by way of a welldeveloped trail suitable for all age groups.

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Heritage River Trail System Journey along the scenic Nechako and Fraser Rivers on the Heritage River Trail System. Trail features include interpretive signs and monuments that explain the area’s history along with paths designed for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and people using mobility devices.

LC Gunn Park Trail The LC Gunn Park trail offers panoramic views of Prince George and runs along the high bluffs of the Fraser River. The trail also runs through a forested park and follows a similar route travelled by early railway line surveyors.

Nearly four kilometres (3.5km) of rustic trails and fenced elevated areas granting sweeping views.

UNBC Connector Trail The UNBC Connector Trail has 10km of paths that connect the University of Northern British Columbia, Forests for the World, and the Cranbrook Hill Greenway, making it access from all three locations. Wide, multi-use gravel path trails suitable for joggers, cyclists, and horseback riders.

Moore’s Meadow Moore’s Meadow is a 60-hectprincegeorgeandarea

are nature park situated within a glacial kettle - a unique geological feature formed after the ice age - and named after adventurer Charles W. Moore. The park boasts a forested hillside area that provides a viewpoint for many different ecosystems, including a large meadow area at the bottom of the glacial kettle. The meadow area can be accessed by a fivekilometre rustic trail system that is popular with birdwatchers, hikers, and dog walkers.

Connaught Hill Park Connaught Hill Park is located off Queensway Street at 1112 Connaught Drive and is situated on the top of a panoramic hill in the downtown core. The Park provides 360 degree views of the city and the Fraser River and was once home to a wooden ski jump in 1930.

Cottonwood Island Nature Park The 32-hectare park is a starting point for - or point of interest on - the 11km Heritage River Trail System and connects a number of parks along the Nechako and Fraser rivers. One of the park’s many highlights include a series of tree bark carvings on mature cottonwood trees by Prince George

resident Elmer Gunderson.

Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park is the located at 1950 Gorse Street on the banks of the Fraser River between 17th Avenue and 20th Avenue off Queensway Boulevard.

Formerly known as Fort George Park, Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park was renamed in 2015 to recognize the fact the park had once been a village for the Lheidli T’enneh.

Rainbow Park Rainbow Park features flower beds, forested glacial kettles, and picturesque valleys in the centre of Prince George and is located at 3800 Rainbow Drive off Ospika Boulevard. The Park is also suitable for tobogganing in the winter.

Ferguson Lake Nature Reserve Ferguson Lake Nature Reserve is located in the Hart off Highway 97 North and Kelly Road North.

The Nature Reserve’s unique trail system is suspended on a plank walkway over the lake, which gives visitors a chance to observe plant an aquatic life up close.

From princegeorge.ca

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The Huble Homestead Historic Site Celebrating 30 years of serving the community, Huble Homestead is a historic site located 40 kilometres north of Prince George, in the Giscome Portage Regional Park.

Huble Homestead keeps the past alive by interpreting the history of Huble Homestead, the Huble family, the Giscome Portage, and the surrounding area.

Nestled alongside the Fraser River, picturesque Huble Homestead is the perfect place to bring the family. Explore the historic buildings on your own or have a guided tour of the entire site, including the original family home built in 1912. Bring a picnic or enjoy a meal from the full BBQ menu any day of the week. Don’t forget to try a slice of delicious homemade pie for dessert. No

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visit is complete without a stop at the Seebach and Huble General Store where a wide variety of local consignment goods and old-fashioned candy is available.

For added fun, visit Huble Homestead during one of the many community events hosted throughout the season. Most special event days include oldfashioned games, crafts, pioneer demonstrations, blacksmithing, contests, and entertainment. For a full event schedule visit www. hublehomestead.ca/specialevents.

The historic site is open daily from Victoria Day to Labour Day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on weekends until Thanksgiving.

The site is dog friendly and admission is by donation. Start planning your trip today!

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Mike Hardeman puts his blacksmithing skills to use during a demonstration on Sunday as part of Huble Homestead’s Spring on the Homestead event.

Citizen Photo by James Doyle

Senior Interpreter Ashlee Thiessen digs a trench for potatoes on Sunday at Huble Homestead’s Spring on the Homestead event. Citizen Photo by James Doyle

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Enjoying the sun and sand at Crooked River Provincial Park, Bear Lake BC. Photo submitted by Janie Laundry

Chetwynd The District of Chetwynd is located at the junction of Highways 97 and 29 in the foothills of the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains. It is British Columbia’s entrance to the mighty Peach River Country. Chetwynd has a population of 3,100 with a trading area of about 7,000.

It was originally called Little Prairie by the First Nations people who traveled through the area.

Fur traders came to the area of Little Prairie as early as 1778 following the water routes and pack trails of the day. By 1919 a log cabin, built on the site just north of the present rail yard opened as a small Trading Post. This attracted a number of others to build around it, and so the community of Little Prairie grew.

The Pacific Great Eastern Railway, or P.G.E. as it was originally known, arrived officially on April 8th, 1958 in Little Prairie.

The Railway station was built in 1959 and Chetwynd became a divisional point for the railroad.

When the Pacific Great Eastern Railway arrived in Chetwynd they officially named the divisional point Chetwynd in honor of the Hon. Ralph Chetwynd, past Minister of Railways and staunch supporter of development in the Peace Region. The Post-office and community followed their lead.

Chetwynd was incorporated as a village in September of 1962, and was re-incorporated as a district in 1983 From gochetwynd.com northofprincegeorge

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Hudson’s Hope Hudson’s Hope is located on the banks of the Peace River in the Rocky Mountain foothills of British Columbia, on Highway 29 between Chetwynd and Fort St. John. Hudson’s Hope is the place to be if you want to paddle down the Peace River. Boating and fishing opportunities exist on Williston and Dinosaur Lakes as well as the mighty Peace River.

Within the tranquil community you will find a beautiful outdoor pool, the Portage Trail river walk and popular hiking trails close to town include Bullhead Mountain, Steam Vents and Butler Ridge.

The WAC Bennett Dam has daily

underground tours May long weekend to September long weekend.

Park your camper or put up your tent at one of the four District operated campgrounds, three are located on water. Several private campgrounds are available – one on the river, one on Williston Lake and one in the town site.

Hudson’s Hope is the third oldest European community in British Columbia. The Museum features First Nations, local pioneering, fur displays, pioneer cabins and dinosaur fossils and tracks.

From hudsonshope.ca

A Golden eagle on the banks of the Pack River. The river takes a winding path from Tudyah Lake to McLeod Lake. Photo submitted by Pat & Nita Flack

Dawson Creek Welcome to the frontier — between culture and wildness, city comforts and country life. Enjoy our northern hospitality, easygoing lifestyle, and hardy pioneer spirit as you discover the many treasures in and around Dawson Creek. There are treasures to be found along the Alaska Highway, whatever you seek: wildlife, original works of art or intriguing history. It all begins in Dawson Creek, Mile 0 of the world famous Alaska Highway. Dawson Creek offers a full range of restaurants, boutique shopping and big box stores, a bustling Farmer’s Market, fine quality accommodations and famously friendly locals. We’re proud of our monumental history and love to share it with visitors 14

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through historical and cultural experiences that define the Peace River region. The past comes alive when you start your journey in Dawson Creek and the iconic relics of the original highway can still be found — if you know where to look. These were the ingredients of the Alaska Highway that changed the north forever and shaped the people of Dawson Creek forever. The stories today are as enduring as the highway itself. Check out the boney fingered man standing right in the middle of Dawson Creek’s main traffic circle. This location marked the beginning of one of the world’s largest and hardest construction jobs in 1942.

From tourismdawsoncreek.com

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In the image, we can see the Aurora Borealis. The photo was taken on the Gnat Pass, in the Cassiar Highway, a few km before Dease Lake. Photo submitted by Cristiano Pereira

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McBride

Valemount

McBride is a village in the Robson Valley region of British Columbia, Canada.

The village is located 210 km (130 mi) southeast of Prince George, British Columbia, and 166 km (103 mi) west of Jasper, Alberta. Incorporated in 1932, McBride is located in the Robson Valley surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and Cariboo Ranges. Founded in 1913 as Mile 90 of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, McBride is a picturesque community surrounded by the Rocky and Cariboo Mountains. With rich farmland lining the Valley bottom and a great mix of forest and alpine, the area’s varied terrain ensures incredible hiking, camping, and bird watching during warmer months, and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter. Mount Robson Provincial Park is just 80 km from McBride, and is an outdoor playground, with rafting, air tours, camping and world famous hiking experiences. Visit and enjoy the beauty, biodiversity and magic of B.C.’s newest park – Ancient Forest / Chun T’oh Whudujut.

From visitmcbride.ca

Valemount is a village municipality of 1,018 people in east central British Columbia, and is situated between the Rocky, Monashee, and Cariboo Mountains. It is the nearest community to the west of Jasper National Park.

Crystal clear blue skies and our gorgeous snow-capped peaks form the backdrop for your epic and unforgettable summer vacation in Valemount. Reel in a rainbow trout, wind through our trails from the saddle of ATV, or let a horse show you the way — however you decide to travel through the Robson Valley, you’re certain to create a memory around every turn.

On the menu of summer adventures, there are more options than there is time.

Spend your first days in our valley riding the rapids on the mighty Fraser River and the next winding through our mountain trails on horseback. Pack your binoculars and see if you can spot the golden eagles soaring through our cerulean sky, or grab a pair of hiking poles and traverse the back-country wilderness of Mount Robson Provincial Park. Take part in Vale-

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mountain Days, the Canoe Rodeo or the Mount Robson Music Festival or any of our other special events. Come for the hiking, the fishing, the ATVing or the mountain biking, but make sure while you’re here you try something new — make this vacation an exceptional one you, and your family will always remember. A fundamental moment in Valemount’s history was the incorporation of the community into a village under the Municipal Act (now Community Charter), on December 13, 1962. The wish to incorporate showed that local residents cared about the community and wanted to be directly responsible for the future course of their village. Up until the mid-1960s, Valemount’s population was very small and mostly of an itinerant nature. Road conditions were poor in the wintertime, communications not the best, and electric power not too reliable.

But thanks to the construction of the Yellowhead Highway 5 a remarkable change took place in the late 1960s.

From visitvalemount.ca

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eastofprincegeorge PHOTO RIGHT: The little Black Bear I saw on a drive to McBride, it was enjoying the green grass after a rain storm.

Photo submitted by Pat Suter

PHOTO ABOVE & RIGHT: A visit to the Ancient Forest is a must. Wooden walking trails make the Ancient Forest a user friendly place for all ages to have access. The photo on the right is of Olga Boudreau using her walking sticks to take an enjoyable walk through the forest.

Photos submitted by Pat Suter

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PHOTO BELOW: The view from the top of the well marked Dunster Trail near McBride BC. This trail is a great day hike with spectacular views.

Photo submitted by Janie Laundry

Barkerville Welcome to Barkerville

Billy Barker’s legendary gold strike on Williams Creek triggered a multi-billion dollar industrial revolution that built this province. Today, the extraordinary historic town of Barkerville stands as a living testament to BC’s golden beginnings. With its unique streetscape of more than 125 heritage buildings, period displays, satellite museums, restaurants, and shops, there is still so much to explore.

Early Gold Rush & the Creation of a Nation

A cornerstone in the development of the country and the founding of British Columbia.

The site of the first ever Dominion Day celebration. The town that supplied the Cariboo gold rush. This is Barkerville.

Barkerville’s Chinatown

By the mid-1880s, Chinese residents made up half of the Cariboo region’s population.

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Nowhere is this more evident than Barkerville’s Chinatown: home to the oldest Chee Kung Tong building in Canada and the most extensive collection of Chinese buildings, photographs, and artifacts in North America.

We enjoyed visiting Barkerville on Family Day and were treated to a hot dog lunch. Photo submitted

by Janie Laundry.

Indigenous Peoples in the Cariboo

Dahooja, Weyt-kp, Hadih! Barkerville is located in the shared territory of seven nations: Lhtako, Nazko, Lhoosk’uz, Ulkatcho, ?Esdilagh, Xatśūll, Simpcw, and Lheidli. We invite you to learn our stories and our role in the gold rush.

Later Gold Rush and the Birth of Wells

Gold mining is a boom and bust industry but in the Cariboo Goldfields, mining has never stopped. The region experienced a gold rush rebirth in the 20th century and the neighbouring town of Wells sprang up to house over 4000 residents.

Submitted by Barkerville

Timeline • 10,000 BC Early Indigenous history in the Cariboo • 1861 Gold is discovered on Williams Creek and the town of Richfield springs up • 1862 Barkerville booms around Billy Barker’s gold strike downstream • 1865 The Cariboo Waggon Road is complete • 1868 Canada’s first Dominion Day celebration is held in Barkerville • 1868 Barkerville burns to the ground • 1871 British Columbia joins the Dominion of Canada • 1880 Prospectors abandon claims and Chinese miners rework them for new riches • 1900 Barkerville booms again with advances in hydraulic mining technology • 1927 Barkerville is designated a National Historic Site of Canada • 1930 Hard rock mining revitalizes gold extraction in the Cariboo • 1940 Gold mining declines as industrial activities shift to war-time efforts • 1958 Barkerville becomes a Provincial Historic Site and Park • 1970 Costumed interpreters are introduced to the townsite • 2005 Barkerville Heritage Trust assumes governance of the site • 2007 The Chee Kung Tong is designated a National Historic Site of Canada • 2016 Barkerville hosts its first Winter Activities Season • TODAY You have arrived in Barkerville!

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Quesnel

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10 Reasons to visit Quesnel this summer This Photo was taken at Stony Lake, a great place to camp,swim, and fish. It has nice beaches and neat Islands to explore.

Photo submitted

by Ammie Olsen

The deer photo was taken in the Hixon area. Photo submitted by Pat Suter

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1. Connect with nature by hiking our trails.

Hike the short trail in Pinnacles Provincial Park for breathtaking views of the ancient hoodoos or do some bird watching from the viewing platform along the trails in West Fraser Timber Park within city limits. Wonderland Trail network offers a more strenuous hike, while the Sisters Creek trails in nearby Kersley are accessible for all.

The options are endless for all ability levels and our Visitor Centre staff can help direct you to a trail that’s right for you.

2. Local menu.

Whether you’re stocking up on your veggies for the week, or interested in seeing some local woodworking, photography, or jewellery, the Quesnel Farmers’ Market is the place to be on Saturday mornings, May

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through October. With live music and friendly vendors, the atmosphere at the market will have you mixing and mingling with local people while you sample local wares.

Afterwards, head across the street to Barkerville Brewing Co for lunch and to “stake your claim” to a craft beer (or two).

3. Catch your dinner.

If the Farmers’ Market isn’t local enough for you, cast a line into one of our wellstocked lakes and cook up some fresh trout around the campfire. Dragon Lake, Ten Mile Lake, and Bouchie Lake are easily accessed from town.

Tzenzaicut Lake is a bit further out, but is also known as Fish Lake for a reason – it’s almost impossible NOT to catch a fish there. If you’re travelling without your own rod, you can borrow one for free with a tackle box from the Visitor Centre.

Continued on page 22

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Quesnel cont’d 4. Get a history lesson like no other.

First, pick up the Historic Driving Tour map from the Quesnel Visitor Centre, then set your odometer to zero and head down Highway 26, stopping at Cottonwood House, Mexican Hill, Blessings Grave, and Stanley along your way. Step back in time to the gold rush when you arrive at Barkerville Historic Town and Park. Spend a day (or more) living like it’s 1862 before returning to present day and Quesnel where you can dig further into the area’s history at the Quesnel & District Museum and Archives, and take a historic walking tour of downtown.

5. Billy Barker Days.

Celebrate our heritage with us during BC’s biggest free family festival. Held every year on the third weekend in July, Billy Barker Days celebrates the gold rush past with live entertainment, free family fun, a midway, parade, and fireworks. Other events like the Gold Dust Mall, Crash to Pass, roller derby, and rodeo take place the same weekend. Get the whole program at www.billybarkerdays. ca 6. Skyfest.

Held every other year on the August long weekend, Skyfest is an air show you don’t want to miss. The Snowbirds will be in town along with acrobatic pilots from across North America to deliver a show that will have you oohing and ahhing towards the skies. Order your tickets in advance at www.quesnelskyfest.ca.

booking a whitewater rafting trip with Big Canyon Rafting. This Quesnel company offers everything from float trips the whole family can enjoy to adrenalinepumping, big water rapids, half day trips to multi-day excursions. www.bigcanyonrafting.com 9. Reid Street.

Quesnel’s downtown is worth stopping for. Take a walk down our revitalized main strip and adjacent streets to check out the shops, cafes and restaurants.

Don’t forget to stop by Spirit Square to see what’s happening there. Check our community event calendar to see what live music is playing in the evening. www.tourismquesnel.com 10. Stretch your legs.

We’d love for you to stay for longer, but if you’re just passing through, at least stop for a walk around our paved Riverfront Trail. This trails system makes a 5 km loop around downtown Quesnel, passing Heritage Corner and the famous Fraser River Footbridge. With a bit more time, you can pass over the bridge to the West Village and an additional 4 km route. Signs along the way share information about our community’s past and present.

Submitted article

7. Beat the summer heat with a swim in 10 Mile, Punchesakut, or Dragon Lake.

Many lakes in the region have camping, beaches, and boat launches to have you enjoying the sun all day long. When you get too hot, jump in the lake!

8. Adventure awaits.

Arrive in Quesnel in unique style, via the Quesnel River, by 22

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Ice fishing for rainbow trout and kokanee on Boxing Day at Ten Mile Lake near Quesnel.

Photo submitted by Janie Laundry

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The Hixon Falls is also a must while you are in the area. Photo submitted by Pat Suter

Williams Lake Welcome to the land of Cowboys, Miners & miles of beautiful untouched nature. Williams Lake is the destination spot for the true adventure seeker. With a plentiful selection of activities such as fishing in any of the 4500 lakes, hiking to a mountain top, skiing downhill or cross-country, snowmobiling through untouched powder and canoeing or kayaking one of the canoe circuits, Williams Lake can offer everyone in the family a splendid time!

Set in the heart of the Cariboo, Williams Lake delivers everything from the biggest shopping area in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast to any kind of great outdoor adventure you want! Williams Lake is home to just under11,000 people & 35,000 in the surrounding area.

Just a scenic day trip (546km) from Vancouver north on Highway 97 or a 1-hour flight from the Metropolis, Williams Lake is very easy to access.

Williams Lake offers a mixture of events and attractions that

will excite the whole family. To get a taste of country, a must attend event is the Williams Lake Stampede traditionally held on the last weekend in June. These 4 to 5 days are jammed packed with exciting entertainment all weekend long with a town wide parade, Let R’Buck saloon, Cowboy Breakfasts, Crash to Pass, rugby tournament, and one can’t forget the main event, The World Famous Stampede If you’re a History Buff check out the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin which is also home to BC Cowboy Hall of Fame. If you’re interested in Culture take a tour of the Xat’sull Heritage Village 30 minutes north of Williams Lake. Arts your thing?

The Station House Gallery showcases Williams Lake & Area’s local talent with monthly shows. Many of the local Clubs host events such as the Tour de Cariboo, Arts on the Fly, The Unlikely Paddlefest, Pow-Wows, Art Walk, Fishing Derbies & many craft fairs.”

From tourismwilliamslake.com

Hixon is a great little community and welcome visitors on a day trip or to stay at our campsites and enjoy the fresh air, wildlife and summer activities. In August we have a Community Country Fall Fair along with Horse Club events and a Car Show you don’t want to miss.

Photo submitted by Pat Suter southofprincegeorge

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Vanderhoof Vanderhoof is nestled in the fertile Nechanko Valley and has a population of roughly 4,500 residents within town limits. Due to nearby rural communities without services Vanderhoof actually supports nearly 10,000 people.

Vanderhoof’s economic drivers are the forest industry, agriculture, and related industries. Tourism is growing, but has yet to challenge any of the established industries.

Mining is growing in importance, with a number of mines being developed in the area.

Begin your Vanderhoof experience by dropping by the Visitor Centre at the Vanderhoof Community Museum. This historic site features beautifully restored buildings, thought-provoking displays and even a wooded Heritage Nature Trail pointing out historical and ecological facts along the 1km circle route. Continue your

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family fun over at the White Surgeon Conservation Centre. This breeding facility has been designed to help stock the declining Nechako River sturgeon population. Did you know that the Nechako white sturgeon is the largest freshwater fish in Canada and has survived millions of years (since the age of the dinosaurs) relatively unchanged?

Learn about the hatchlings, their changing environment and how they will be reintroduced into the wild on a family-friendly tour.

Ready to rip it up? Whether you prefer a pump or downhill track, the Rip’n the North Bike Park has

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something to challenge and excite you.

Featuring a multitude of flow, jump and technical trails, this bike park will entertain the beginner to advanced rider. After an energetic ride, continue down Kenney Dam Road and hike the Kenney Dam Trail to Cheslatta Falls. The dam was built in the 1950’s and at that time was the largest on earth and

This fish has been in the Nechako River for millions of years and any visit to Vanderhoof should include a quiet drift down the Nechako River with opportunities to see the Nechako White Sturgeon and a followup tour of the Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Centre.

Photo submitted by Wayne Salewski

an engineering feat of its time.

From vanderhoof.ca

Smithers Nearly 6,000 people call Smithers home and nearly 20,000 live in the surrounding valley and rural communities. As a service centre, Smithers offers many more amenities than you might expect for a town its size. The Bulkley River borders Smithers and lends its name to the valley. Smithers is a mountain town, set against the backdrop of the Hudson Bay Mountain and with vistas of the Babine and Telkwa Mountain Ranges.

The Town of Smithers is situated northwestern British Columbia directly on the Trans Canada Yellowhead Highway (Route 16), approximately half way between the cities of Prince Rupert and Prince George.

Smithers offers outstanding outdoor recreational pursuits during all phases of the year. This includes fishing and hunting, downhill, backcountry and cross-country skiing, golfing, snowmobiling, canoeing and kayaking and many more. Coupled with a vibrant music scene, Art Gallery, Museum, theatrical performances and an energetic sporting community, Smithers has something

westofprincegeorge for everyone. Smithers sits in the Bulkley River valley between the Hudson Bay Mountain range to the west and the Babine Mountain range to the east; Because of its alpine environment, the town has adopted an ‘alpine theme’. Main Street was reconstructed in 1979 with red brick sidewalks and alpine style rooflines on buildings and shops; The surrounding mountains and valleys are dominated by coniferous forests of lodgepole pine, spruce and sub-arctic balsam fir. Deciduous trees include aspen, birch and cottonwood.

When Smithers first sprouted up in 1913 as a divisional point on the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, Hudson Bay Mountain was a quiet and impressive sentinel over the growing railroad community. But more than just a picturesque backdrop, the mountain has in many ways shaped this town into what it is today-a thriving community that values outdoor recreation, mountain culture and community life.”

From tourismsmithers.com

In the autumn, cooler mornings and warm afternoons, can make Cobb Lake an idyllic place for a boat ride. Photo submitted by Glen Mikkelsen

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Kitimat Kitimat was planned and built in the 1950s by Alcan Aluminum to house all their employees working at the smelter. The building of the smelter, Kemano power plant, Kenny Dam and transmission line was North America’s largest construction project at the time. Even though Kitimat is an industrial town, it has access to some of British Columbia’s most remote and pristine landscapes. Kitimat is an all-season outdoor paradise and playground uniquely situated at the head of the Douglas Channel, with access to salt and fresh water fishing within minutes of downtown. Consider booking one of the charter companies to take you sport fishing, sightseeing, or to one of the hot springs.

Kayak charters and rentals are also available.

Visit the Giant Spruce Park which has the remains of a previ-

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ously registered “largest living Sitka Spruce in BC”. The 500 – year old tree measures 11.2 m in circumference and once stood 50.32 m tall. Wander through the Kitimat Museum and Archives to learn about Kitimat’s history.

Head to Kitamaat Village, only 11 km south of Kitimat, which offers a rich cultural history, outstanding displays and hidden totem poles. Be sure to visit the famous carving shop of worldrenowned Haisla master carver Sam Robinson.

Golf the exceptionally designed and challenging 18-Hole golf course at Hirsch Creek Golf & Winter Club. Hike along BCs west coast, through lush rainforest or up to higher altitudes during the summer or in winter, swap the hiking boots for snowshoes or snowmobile.

From tourismkitimat.ca

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The hike to the top of Pope Mountain in Fort St James is worth the climb with views over Stuart Lake (great fishing).

Photo submitted by Janie Laundry

Hang on! Autumn is a wonderful time to angle for steelhead on the Bulkley River!

Mike Quarenghi’s rod bends in respect to the strength of these fish!

Photo submitted by Glen Mikkelsen

BC Provincial Parks Directory Prince George Prince George andand AreaArea PARK

Activities & Facilities

Bobtail Mountain Provincial Park Crooked River Provincial Park Dahl Lake Provincial Park Eskers Provincial Park Fort George Canyon Provincial Park Fraser River Provincial Park Purden Lake Provincial Park Stuart River Provincial Park Three Sisters Lakes Provincial Park West Lake Provincial Park

East of George East ofPrince Prince George PARK

Activities & Facilities Slim Creek / Dome Creek / McBride and Area

Close To The Edge Provincial Park Erg Mountain Provincial Park

Kakwa Provincial Park & Protected Area Ptarmigan Creek Provincial Park Slim Creek Provincial Park Small River Caves Provincial Park Sugarbowl-Grizzly Den Provincial Park West Twin Provincial Park Valemount and Area Mount Robson Provincial Park Mount Terry Fox Provincial Park Jackman Flats Provincial Park Rearguard Falls Provincial Park North Thompson Oxbows East Provincial Park North Thompson Oxbows Manteau Provincial Park Pyramid Creek Falls Provincial Park

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BC Provincial Parks Directory West ofPrince Prince George West of George PARK

Activities & Facilities Vanderhoof / Fort St. James and Area

Finger Tatuk Provincial Park Nation Lakes Provincial Park Mount Blanchet Provincial Park Mount Pope Provincial Park Mudzenchoot Lake Provincial Park Paarens Beach Provincial Park Rubyrock Lake Provincial Park Sowchea Bay Provincial Park Stuart Lake Marine Provincial Park Takla Lake Marine Provincial Park Trembleur Lake Provincial Park Fraser Lake and Area Beaumont Provincial Park Entiako Provincial Park Francois Lake Provincial Park Sutherland River Provincial Park Uncha Mountains Red Hills Provincial Park Burns Lake/Houston and Area Atna River Provincial Park Babine Lake Marine Provincial Park Dead Man’s Island Provincial Park Ethel F. Wilson Memorial Provincial Park Little Andrews Bay Marine Provincial Park Morice Lake Provincial Park NenikÍkh/Nanika-Kidprice Provincial Park Old Man Lake Provincial Park Tweedsmuir Provincial Park North

Wistaria Provincial Park

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BC Provincial Parks Directory West of Prince West of Prince GeorgeGeorge (continued) PARK

Activities & Facilities Smithers / Hazelton and Area

Anderson Flats Provincial Park Babine Mountains Provincial Park Babine River Corridor Provincial Park Boulder Creek Provincial Park Bulkley Junction Provincial Park Call Lake Provincial Park Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park Kitwanga Mountain Provincial Park Netalzul Meadows Provincial Park Nilkitkwa Lake Provincial Park Rainbow Alley Provincial Park Ross Lake Provincial Park Seely Lake Provincial Park Seven Sisters Provincial Park Tazdli Wyiez Bin/Burnie-Shea Provincial Park Tyhee Lake Provincial Park Terrace / Kitimat / Prince Rupert and Area Coste Rocks Provincial Park Dala-Kildala Rivers Estuaries Provincial Park Diana Lake Provincial Park Eagle Bay provincial Park Exchamsiks River Provincial Park Hai Lake-Mount Herman Provincial Park Foch-Gilttoyees Provincial Park Gitnadoiks River Provincial Park Khutzeymateen Provincial Park Kitimat River Provincial Park Kitson Island Marine Provincial Park Kitsumkalum Provincial Park Kleanza Creek Provincial Park Klewnuggit Inlet Marine Provincial Park Lakelse Lake Provincial Park Lakelse Lake Wetlands Provincial Park

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BC Provincial Parks Directory West of Prince West of Prince GeorgeGeorge (continued) PARK

Activities & Facilities Terrace / Kitimat / Prince Rupert and Area

Lowe Inlet Marine Provincial Park Nalbeelah Creek Wetlands Provincial Park Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park Owyacumish River Provincial Park Prudhomme Lake Provincial Park Sleeping Beauty Mountain Provincial Park Sue Channel Provincial Park Union Passage Marine Provincial Park Weewanie Hot Springs Provincial Park Queen Charlotte Islands Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site (National Park) Naikoon Provincial Park Pure Lake Provincial Park

North of George North ofPrince Prince George PARK

Activities & Facilities McLeod Lake / Mackenzie and Area

Bijoux Falls Provincial Park Carp Lake Provincial Park Heather-Dina Lakes Provincial Park Muscovite Lakes Provincial Park Omenica Provincial Park Pine Le Moray Provincial Park Tudyah Lake Provincial Park Whiskers Point Provincial Park Chetwynd / Hudson’s Hope / Tumbler Ridge and Area Bearhole Lake Provincial Park Bocock Peak Provincial Park Butler Ridge Provincial Park East Pine Provincial Park 59 30

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BC Provincial Parks Directory North of Prince North of Prince GeorgeGeorge (continued) PARK

Activities & Facilities Chetwynd/Hudson’s Hope / Tumbler Ridge and Area

Gwillim Lake Provincial Park Hole In The Wall Provincial Park Moberly Lake Provincial Park Monkman Provincial Park Pine River Breaks Provincial Park Sukunka Falls Provincial Park Wapiti Lake Provincial Park Dawson Creek / Ft. St. John and Area Beatton Provincial Park Beatton River Provincial Park Buckinghorse River Way Provincial Park Charlie Lake Provincial Park Graham-Laurier Provincial Park Kiskatinaw Provincial Park Kiskatinaw River Provincial Park Milligan Hills Provincial Park One Island Lake Provincial Park Peace River Corridor Provincial Park Pink Mountain Provincial Park Prophet River Hotsprings Provincial Park Redfern-Keily Provincial Park Sikanni Chief Canyon Provincial Park Swan Lake Provincial Park Taylor Landing Provincial Park Ft. Nelson and Area Kotcho Lake Village Site Provincial Park Kwadacha Wilderness Provincial Park Maxhamish Lake Provincial Park Northern Rocky Mountains Provincial Park Sikanni Old Growth Provincial Park Stone Mountain Provincial Park

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BC Provincial Parks Directory North of Prince North of Prince GeorgeGeorge (continued) PARK

Activities & Facilities Liard River / Muncho Lake / Toad River and Area

Liard River Corridor Provincial Park Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park Liard River West Corridor Provincial Park Muncho Lake Provincial Park Toad River Hot Springs Provincial Park Scatter River Old Growth Provincial Park Smith River Falls – Fort Halkett Provincial Park Ft. Ware / Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Area Chase Provincial Park Dall River Old Growth Provincial Park Denetiah Provincial Park Dune Za Keyih Park Ed Bird-Estella Lakes Provincial Park Finlay Russel Provincial Park Horneline Creek Provincial Park Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park Spatsizi Headwaters Provincial park Stikine River Provincial Park Sustut Provincial Park Tatlatui Provincial Park Stewart-Cassiar Highway (#37) and area Border Lake Provincial Park Boya lake Provincial Park Choquette Hot Springs Provincial Park Great Glacier Provincial Park Iskut River Hot Springs Provincial Park Kinaskan Lake Provincial Park Lava Forks Provincial Park Meziadin Lake Provincial Park Mount Edziza Provincial Park Ningunsaw Provincial Park Swan Lake Kispiox River Provincial Park Todagin South Slope Provincial Park Tuya Mountains Provincial Park Atlin Lake Area 32

Atlin Provincial Park Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park

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Kinaskan Lake Provincial Park Lava Forks Provincial Park Meziadin Lake Provincial Park

BC Provincial Parks Directory

Mount Edziza Provincial Park Ningunsaw Provincial Park

Swan Lake Kispiox River Provincial Park

North of Prince George

Todagin South Slope Provincial Park PARK Tuya Mountains Provincial Park

Activities & Facilities Atlin Lake Area

Atlin Provincial Park Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park

South ofPrince Prince George South of George PARK

Activities & Facilities Quesnel and Area

Bowron Lake Provincial Park Cariboo River Provincial Park Kluskoil Lake Provincial Park Pinnacles Provincial Park Puntchesaukt Lake Provincial Park Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park Williams Lake and Area Bull Canyon Provincial Park Cariboo Mountains Provincial Park

PHOTO LEFT: This picture was taken in the Blueberry region near McBride. It is beautiful alpine region surrounded by mountains with numerous hiking possibilities. This is a busy ground squirrel collecting the seeds from anenomes near the lake we camped at. Photo submitted by Jane Ritchey

PHOTO RIGHT: We saw fields of wildflowers in full bloom while hiking the Vineyards Trail just east of Prince George. Photo submitted

by Janie Laundry

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Exploring Northern British Columbia Fort St. John Hudson’S Hope Chetwynd

Dawson Creek

Mackenzie Tumbler Ridge Terrace

Smithers

McLeod Lake Burns Lake

Houston Kitimat

Fort St. James & Stuart Lake

Francois Lake

Crooked River

Prince George Ancient Forest

Vanderhoof FraseR Lake

HIXON

Quesnel

McBride Wells Barkerville

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Mount Robson

Bowron Lakes Valemount