2019 Northern BC Travel Guide

northern british columbia Travel 2017 TRAVEL guide GUIDE 2019

N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M.C O M

TRAVEL NORTHERN BRITISH CoLuMBIA

northernbctourism.com

(TOP) DUNE ZA KEYIH PROVINCIAL PARK IN THE STIKINE REGION - TAYLOR BURK (BOTTOM) COW MOOSE FEEDING ALONG THE ALASKA HIGHWAY NEAR TOAD RIVER - RYAN DICKIE (RIGHT) EXSTEW FALLS, NEAR TERRACE - MARTY CLEMENS

NORTHERN BRITIS H COLUMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE 2019

Table of

contents

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SECTION 1: NORTHEAST BRITISH COLUMBIA

S E C T I O N 2: NORTHWEST BRITISH COLUMBIA

S E C T I O N 3: H A I D A G WA I I BRITISH COLUMBIA

AURORA BOREALIS ABOVE HIGHWAY 77 NORTH OF FORT NELSON - RYAN DICKIE

CANOEING AT WAINWRIGHT BASIN, NEAR PRINCE RUPERT - MIKE SEEHAGEL

DRIVING THROUGH THE RAINFOREST IN HAIDA GWAII - MATTHEW MASSA

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NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA INTRODUCTION

PUBLISHER: Northern British Columbia Tourism Association Project Manager: Tyler Clarke D E S I G N / L AY O U T: Concept Design Ltd. Suite 201 - 1389 Third Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3E8 Telephone: 250-564-1309 www.conceptdesign.ca

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NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA MAP

PUBLISHED FOR: Northern British Columbia Tourism Association 1274 5th Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3L2 Telephone: 250-561-0432 Email: info@NBCtourism.com PRINTED IN CANADA For Free Distribution

FOR TRAVEL DEALS AND ACCOMMODATION LISTINGS, VISIT H E L L O B C .C O M

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T R AV E L T I P S : THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

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ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

CHECK OUT NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA ON: /northernbc @tourismbcnorth @travelnorthernBC

COVER PHOTO: Rose Spit in Haida Gwaii - Owen Perry

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©2019 – Northern British Columbia Tourism Association (the”Region”). All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited. This Guide does not constitute, and should not be construed as, an endorsement or recommendation of any carrier, hotel, restaurant or any other facility, attraction or activity in British Columbia, for which neither Destination BC Corp. nor the Region assumes any responsibility. Super, Natural British Columbia®, Super, Natural, Hello BC®, Visitor Centre and all associated logos / trademarks are trade-marks or Official Marks of Destination BC Corp. Admission fees and other terms and conditions may apply to attractions and facilities referenced in this Guide. Errors and omissions excepted.

Regions of the

north

Section 1:

Northeast bc

MUNCHO LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK VALLEY - ANDREW STRAIN

With 500,000 square kilometres of astonishingly diverse geography, northern BC boasts recreation and wildlife-viewing opportunities year-round. More than 60 provincial, national and marine parks and wildlife refuges offer access to unique ecosystems and priceless cultural heritage treasures. Of course, the tone of any place is set by its people. Fewer than 500,000 residents make northern BC one of the least densely populated places in North America. But those who do call it home are as passionate about the recreational assets in their backyards as they are about its vibrant culture and colorful past — and eager to share it with you. Experience the friendly hospitality of northern British Columbians, and you’ll be back again and again.

“If you’re looking for pristine natural beauty, rich history, fascinating Indigenous culture and genuine people, you’ve come to the right place: Northern British Columbia has it all.”

Section 2:

Northwest bc

THE COLOURFUL SPECTRUM RANGE IN MOUNT EDZIZA PROVINCIAL PARK - JF BERGERON

Section 3:

Haida gwaii bc

HAIDA GWAII COASTLINE - OWEN PERRY

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INTRODUCTION: NORTHERN BRITIS H COLUMBIA C ANADA

ENJOYING CRAFT BEER IN PRINCE RUPERT - ELAINE RYSTEAD

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nw

ne Prince george

BRITISH COLUMBIA canaDa

How this guide works: For ease of use, this guide is divided into sections that roughly parallel major travel routes. Each section is also identified by a corresponding colour.

Section 1: Northeast British Columbia (NE) Travelling from Prince George east to Tete Jaune Cache and north to the Yukon border.

Section 2: Northwest British Columbia (NW) Travelling from Vanderhoof north up to Atlin, then back to Terrace and out to Prince Rupert.

Section 3: Haida Gwaii British Columbia (HG) Travelling from your arrival at Sandspit and moving up island to Masset and Old Massett.

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Section 1

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northEast

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(LEFT) NORTHERN ROCKY MOUNTAINS PROVINCIAL PARK - ANDREW STRAIN (BELOW) SHEEP IN THE NORTHERN ROCKIES - RYAN DICKIE

“Riotous wildflowers in the alpine meadows of Stone Mountain Provincial Park. Stone’s sheep, and jade-green waters, of Muncho Lake Provincial Park.”

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Section 1

Northeast BRITISH COLUMBIA

(BELOW LEFT) LOOKING OUT OVER NONDA CREEK - ANDREW STRAIN (BELOW RIGHT) DINING IN PRINCE GEORGE - ANDREW STRAIN (BOTTOM) PRINCE GEORGE - GRANT HARDER (OPPOSITE PAGE) KINUSEO FALLS, MONKMAN PROVINCIAL PARK, TUMBLER RIDGE UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK - MIKE SEEHAGEL

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OUR NORTHERN BC tour will almost certainly include a stop in Prince George, BC’s unofficial northern capital city and an important transportation hub.

Take time in Prince George to learn

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S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

about characters who have shaped the north’s fascinating history — by visiting the galleries and museums that tell stories about northern BC First Nations, explorers, fur-traders, gold-seekers, pioneers, railroaders and lumberjacks. Glimpse its future, too, by visiting one of Canada’s most distinguished small universities — the University of Northern BC and the new Wood Innovation and Design Centre. If you head north from Prince George on Highway 97, you’ll discover the youthful, entrepreneurial heart of northeastern BC. Feel its dynamism,

expressed in industries such as mining, oil and gas; in engineering wonders like the WAC Bennett Dam (In most years, it produces about one-quarter of the electricity consumed by BC Hydro’s domestic customers); and in communities like Fort St. John — one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities.

The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, thick forests and fertile valleys cut by winding rivers and sparkling waterfalls. Its resource wealth is paralleled by equally resourceful people. Potent examples are found in towns like Tumbler Ridge,

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southeast of Chetwynd on Highway 29. After making discoveries of dinosaur tracks, fossils and bones, this mining town recast itself as a compelling visitor attraction and centre for palaeontological research.

Dino-seeking visitors can’t resist visiting Kinuseo Falls, whose thunderous height surpasses Niagara Falls, and the new Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark, only the second such park in North America.

Continue north to reach the aweinspiring Alaska Highway, driving through some of North America’s

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SE C T I O N 1 : NO R T HEAST BC

MOTORCYCLING ROUTE 16 - JONG SUN PARK

LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS IN THE NORTHERN ROCKIES - RYAN DICKIE

NORTHEAST BC – CONTINUED…

most scarcely populated territory, and you’ll come to understand why this route is so often identified with adventure. To really appreciate this feat of civic engineering and its strategic role in U.S. military history, visit Alaska Highway-related attractions in Dawson Creek, Fort St. John and Fort Nelson.

The Alaska Highway also offers access to some of BC’s best kept secrets: Mesozoic-Era marine fossils and rare arctic butterflies in Pink Mountain Provincial Park. Riotous wildflowers in the alpine meadows of Stone Mountain Provincial Park.

Stone’s sheep, and jade-green waters, of Muncho Lake Provincial Park.

Everyone who journeys the remote Alaska Highway should reward themselves, at least once, with a visit to Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park. Although popular in summer, the springs are truly resplendent on

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frosty winter days. One restorative dip in this steaming oasis, and you’ll see why these mineralized pools and diverse flora have drawn human visitors for millennia.

Travel east of Prince George on Highway 16, and arrive in the Robson Valley — the western slope of the Rocky Mountains and the birthplace of the mighty Fraser River. Communities like Dunster and McBride offer excellent bases for outdoor adventurers exploring by foot, ski, jet boat or snowmobile.

From here, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies beckons from the provincial park of the same name: Mount Robson. Considered a crown jewel among the world’s parks, Mount Robson offers experiences for every taste — from vehicle-accessible camping to pristine locales that humans rarely see.

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Winter brings a whole new slate of recreation opportunities to northeastern BC. Heli-ski east of Prince George, or cross-country ski on groomed trails just minutes from downtown. Snowmobile on 300 kilometres of glorious trails near Tumbler Ridge, and skate on free, outdoor rinks found at many northeastern BC lakes and townsites. Some winter activities are unique: try a round of snow-golf at Fort St. John’s High on Ice carnival.

Bundle up, and get swept up by the infectious enthusiasm of howling dog teams at sled dog races which have drawn international competitors to Fort Nelson for almost 50 years.

Whichever season or direction you travel, you’ll meet friendly northeastern British Columbians who are as passionate about play as they are work — and as you discover their backyard, you’ll understand why.

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FLY FISHING IN DUNE ZA KEYIH PROVINCIAL PARK IN THE STIKINE REGION - TAYLOR BURK

Unique.

Eclectic.

Diverse.

Welcome to one of the most colourful, diverse and eclectic regions in Canada!

The character of our area is largely shaped by the unique businesses and entrepreneurs that are at the heart of our vibrant communities. Enjoy a true northern experience by discovering some of the locally owned, independent businesses that are here.

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

Prince George

DOWNTOWN PRINCE GEORGE - SIMON RATCLIFFE

MOUNTAIN BIKING THE PIDHERNY TRAIL NETWORK IN PRINCE GEORGE - DAVE SILVER

Near the geographical heart of the province, Prince George has a solid claim to the title of BC’s northern capital. It’s a regional centre with a location at the junction of Highways 16 (east / west) and 97 (north / south), along VIA Rail’s Skeena Line (from Jasper, AB to Prince Rupert), the confluence of the Nechako and Fraser Rivers, and an international airport.

The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation lived in the area for thousands of years before any Europeans arrived. In 1807 a fur trader by the name of Simon Fraser established a fur trading post. Nearly one hundred years later agricultural development began around the trading post when the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway (now known as CN Rail) entered the region. The railway entered the Prince George area in 1914 and the town was officially incorporated in 1915.

There are three potential explanations for the name “Prince George”. Being after King George V is unlikely as George V was known as Prince Edward after being crowned, not Prince George. A second reason is that Grand Trunk Pacific president Charles Hays suggested that naming the new townsite Prince George would help distinguish it from the nearby Fort George and South Fort George. The most likely explanation is it was named after Prince George, King George VI’s youngest brother, uncle to Queen Elizabeth II, and the future Duke of Kent.

The city’s early years were challenging with the Great War, a Spanish Flu epidemic, and the Great Depression.

However, during World War II an army camp of 6,000 soldiers created a larger demand for services in the city.

After the war ended, international reconstruction efforts increased lumber demand and Prince George’s forestry industry took root. In 1981, Prince George was the largest city in the province. Today, the resource industry is an economic driver for the city and region.

Prince George continues to grow as a modern city surrounded by wilderness. There are diverse dining options, cultural attractions, top-quality educational opportunities, award-winning architecture, and developing tour excursions in Prince George.

ALL NEW. FRESH. COMFORTABLE. MARRIOTT.COM/YXSCY | 250.596.6274

900 Brunswick Street, Prince George, BC, V2L 2C3

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SNOWBOARDER LOADING EQUIPMENT ON TRAIN WITH VIA RAIL CANADA - ANDREW STRAIN

MR. PG, PRINCE GEORGE - GRANT HARDER

Get insider tips and tricks for your Prince George adventure.

Stop by our Visitor Centre for information on local eateries, shops, cultural attractions and accommodations. You can even borrow a bicycle, fishing rod, life jacket, tackle box, or ice auger - all for free!

Our gear, your adventure.

#101-1300 First Avenue 1-800-668-7646 N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

TWO RIVERS GALLERY - TOURISM PG/RDFFG

THE "LITTLE PRINCE" AT LHEIDLI T’ENNEH MEMORIAL PARK - TOURISM PG/RDFFG

PRINCE GEORGE – CONTINUED…

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N P R I N C E G E O R G E Δ Get your art fix at the Two Rivers Gallery, which offers an ever-changing selection of top-quality works by local, regional and national artists. Source the gallery’s gift store, and downtown shops for quality crafts and highend creative gifts. Δ View one of the largest vintage rail collections in BC, at the Central British Columbia Railway & Forestry Museum on River Road. Artifacts date from 1899, and include buildings, locomotives, rail cars and artifacts from the steam and diesel railway eras, as well as vintage logging, mining and agricultural machinery. Inquire about special events hosted year-round.

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Δ Step back in time at the Huble Homestead, 40 km (25 mi) north of town off Highway 97. This living heritage site includes a restored turn-of-the-century homestead, general store and trading post, blacksmith shop, post office and First Nations fish camp. Walk the Giscome Portage, an 8.5 km (5 mi) trail that originates at the homestead and crosses the Continental Divide. Originally used by the Carrier people, it was later made into a wagon road to accommodate Gold Rush-era traffic. Δ Enjoy live entertainment, home-baked goods, local crafts and organic produce at the Farmers’ Market, Saturday mornings, year round (at the corner of 3rd Ave. and Quebec St.). Δ Learn about the city’s past at the Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre, located in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, on the shores of the Fraser River. A new permanent exhibit “Hodul’eh-a: A Place of Learning” just earned the Exploration Place and Lheidli T’enneh First Nation a Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Community Programming. People of all ages can also get hands-on at a dinosaur exhibit, make friends with the live reptiles and enjoy travelling exhibits. During the summer, take a ride in the park on the Little Prince, an authentic mini-steam train.

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HUBLE HOMESTEAD - TOURISM PG/RDFFG

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

PRINCE GEORGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMING AT LHEIDLI T'ENNEH MEMORIAL PARK - PAUL ALBERTS

WINE TASTING IN PRINCE GEORGE - ANDREW STRAIN

PRINCE GEORGE – CONTINUED…

• Wine • Events • Tours • Gift Shop EXPERIENCE

The Bistro

PRINCE GEORGE’S FIRST RESTAURANT ON THE RIVER

Δ Visit a Park! Prince George has over 1,500 hectares of parks and open spaces — including over one hundred parks, 47 playgrounds, and nearly one hundred sport fields, athletic parks, and ball diamonds. If you prefer to follow a trail, there are over 140 km of trails in the community, including the Centennial Connector Trail Loop, a 30 km trail created to celebrate Prince George’s recent 100th Anniversary. This trail features paved pathways, sidewalks, rustic trails, and interpretive signs on the area’s human history, flora, fauna and geology. Δ Embrace Prince George winters — on groomed crosscountry ski trails convenient to downtown, three nearby ski hills and enough indoor and outdoor ice to keep skaters, curlers and hockey players moving! Δ Take in a musical masterpiece, performed by the Prince George Symphony Orchestra or visiting big name acts at the CN Centre. Δ Visit the Northern Lights Estate Winery, BC's most northern winery situated on the banks of the Nechako River. The winery specializes in fruit wine.

OPEN YEAR ROUND

Visit Us Online

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Δ Tour the award-winning University of Northern BC campus. Maclean’s Magazine has consistently ranked UNBC as one of the top small universities in Canada.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PRINCE GEORGE Visit www.tourismpg.com or call Tourism Prince George at 1-800-668-7646 or the Prince George Visitor Centre at 250-562-3700 W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

With three departures a week, there’s no better way to see Jasper, Prince George, and Prince Rupert (and the remote communities and stretches of wilderness along the way) than from our unique domed observation car. So, sit back and enjoy the view.

(We’ll take care of everything else.)

Northern BC was made to be seen (especially by train)

TM

Trademark owned by VIA Rail Canada Inc.

S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

McBride McBride is on Highway 16 — 208 km (125 mi) east of Prince George. In 1913, this railway town became the divisional point for the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, and for some time it was the largest rail yard between Winnipeg and Prince Rupert. Today, it’s a great base for all-season exploration of the recreation paradise of the Robson Valley. Agriculture, forestry and tourism employ most of its 586 residents, and McBride’s stunning surroundings inspire local artists.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N M C B R I D E Δ Explore the Robson Valley independently or with professional guides — on foot, snowshoe, skis, snowmobile or horseback, by boat, kayak, canoe or via helicopter-facilitated skiing and hiking tours. Δ Source high-quality, locally produced arts and crafts and arrange artists’ studio tours, at the Whistle Stop Gallery in the Heritage Railway Station. Δ Stroll the Fire Hydrant Tour; each one is painted by an accomplished artist.

Δ View local artifacts and travelling shows, at the Valley Museum and Archives. Δ In August, watch spawning Chinook salmon continue their journey (from the distant Pacific!) up the Beaver Falls. Δ Stock up on local, organic produce at farmers' markets, held Friday afternoons in McBride and Saturday mornings in nearby Dunster. Δ Picnic on the banks of the Fraser, at Koeneman Regional Park just east of town. Δ Observe plentiful birds from the viewing platform and gazebo at Horseshoe Lake. Δ Hear an eclectic lineup of music at the Robson Valley Music Festival, held in late August. Δ Attend the Robson Valley Fall Fair, an old fashioned country fair held on the last weekend in August.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MCBRIDE Drop in or call the Visitor Centre, open year round in the railway station, at 1-866-569-3366, and visit www.mcbride.ca

OUTSIDE WHISTLE STOP GALLERY IN MCBRIDE ON ROUTE 16 - JONG SUN PARK

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Tete Jaune Cache Discover Tete Jaune Cache (pop. 500) near the junction of Highways 5 and 16. Like the Yellowhead Highway and Pass, Tete Jaune (“yellow head” in French) was named after Pierre Hastination, a blond Iroquois-Metis trapper and trader who guided for the Hudson’s Bay Company.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T E T E J A U N E C A C H E Δ During late August and early September, view the mighty Chinook Salmon jumping up Rearguard Falls after having swum 1,200 km (746 mi) from the mouth of the Fraser River to spawn. Δ Jet-boat or whitewater raft the Fraser River rapids. Δ Camp and explore extensive trails in one of BC’s crown jewels: Mount Robson Provincial Park, just 11 km (7 mi) east on Highway 16.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TETE JAUNE CACHE For more info about the park, visit www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks

TETE JAUNE CACHE ON ROUTE 16 - JONG SUN PARK

HIKING AT EMPEROR FALLS ON THE BERG LAKE TRAIL IN MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK - BRAYDEN HALL

At this point …

From here you can continue east along Highway 16 and on to Mount Robson.

For the purposes of this guide you will now be routed north of Prince George on Highway 97 to Mackenzie, BC. FOR REFERENCE, SEE THE MAP ON PAGE 48

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

MORFEE MOUNTAIN, MACKENZIE - SIMON RATCLIFFE

TSE’KHENE FOOD & FUEL LTD.

ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR… Fuel, groceries, arts and handmade crafts, café and accommodations. Enjoy delicious home-style meals and comfortable lodging in our Ah’da Bed and Breakfast Tse’khene Food and Fuel is owned and run by Tse’khene First Nations who live beside Beautiful McLeod Lake and 32 kms from Beautiful Carp Lake Provincial Park which is famous for its rainbow trout.

Take a short drive north of the community and you will experience the Majestic Rocky Mountains.

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Ah’Da Road, McLeod Lake, BC V0J 2G0 Phone 250-750-4687 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC WITH STATUS AND NON-STATUS PRICES

Meeting the needs of customers with a commitment to excellence in customer service W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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route to the Pacific Coast, Mackenzie is a forestry-based community of 3,507. It boasts remarkable recreation opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, camping, wildlife viewing, photography, snowmobiling, skiing and year-round fishing.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N M A C K E N Z I E Δ Climb Morfee Mountain on foot, bike, ATV or snowmobile, for breathtaking views of Mackenzie and its rugged, mountainous terrain. Δ Swim, boat, kayak, canoe, water-ski and fish on picturesque Morfee Lake. Picnic, barbecue and play volleyball at its sandy beach (includes fire pits and volleyball nets). Δ Walk, jog or hike the trails of John Dahl Park, for great views of Morfee Lake.

MORFEE LAKE - CLINT FRASER

Δ Watch birds at the Mackenzie Nature Observatory, in the abundant Mugaha Marsh. Learn about migration monitoring, which occurs from about July 20 to September 20. Δ Explore one of BC’s newest parks: Heather-Dina Lakes Provincial Park, 25 km (16 mi) north of town. Hike and camp at primitive sites; canoe and fish its numerous small lakes. Δ Enjoy nine holes of golf at the Mackenzie Golf & Country Club. Δ Shop for local crafts, and visit the arts centre and museum, at the Ernie Bodin Community Centre. Δ In winter, fire up your snowmobile for the porch-topowder experience, and enjoy enviable snow conditions and diverse trails that make Mackenzie a sledder’s dream. Δ Ski downhill or toboggan at Little Mac Ski Hill, and explore Mackenzie’s groomed, lit cross-country ski trails — just seconds from downtown.

A HEARD OF CARIBOU NEAR MACKENZIE - KAILA WALTON

Mackenzie The District of Mackenzie is only 185 scenic kilometres (115 mi) north of Prince George and 188 km (117 mi) southwest of Chetwynd. Named for Alexander Mackenzie, the Scottish explorer who camped near here in 1793 en N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

Δ Enjoy intermediate-level downhill skiing at Powder King Mountain Resort, 67 km (42 mi) northeast of Mackenzie on Highway 97.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MACKENZIE Call the Chamber of Commerce at 1-877-622-5360 or the District of Mackenzie at 250-997-3221, or visit www.district.mackenzie.bc.ca W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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CHETWYND - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Chetwynd The bustling, hospitable community of Chetwynd is positioned at the junction of Highways 29 and 97, where the eastern foothills of the Rockies open up to the expansive, prairie-like Peace River country.

A transportation hub for the Peace River region, the District of Chetwynd is blessed with abundant natural resources, a stunning mountain backdrop, and the gently rolling topography which inspired early European settlers to call it “Little Prairie”. Such assets, and a diverse economic base of forestry, energy, mining, ranching and tourism, appeal to its outdoor-loving, family-oriented population.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N C H E T W Y N D Δ Discover and photograph Chetwynd’s impressive collection of more than 150 detailed chainsaw sculptures, depicting everything from mermaids to wildlife. Watch accomplished chainsaw carvers the second weekend in June, when Chetwynd hosts the International Chainsaw Carving Competition.

Δ Tee up at Chetwynd’s nine-hole golf course overlooking Moberly Lake. Δ Camp, picnic, fish, boat, or take a bracing dip in one of Chetwynd’s crystal-clear lakes. Δ Hike and bike Chetwynd area trails, which range from easy to challenging; for directions, consult the Greenspace Trail Map, available at the Visitor Centre. Δ In winter, explore Chetwynd terrain by snowmobile, snowshoe or cross-country skis, and enjoy intermediatelevel downhill skiing at Powder King Mountain Resort, 110 km (68 mi) southwest on Highway 97. Δ Visit Little Prairie Heritage Museum.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CHETWYND Call the Chetwynd Visitor Centre at 250-788-1943, and visit www.gochetwynd.com

Δ Visit Chetwynd’s first-rate recreation centre, which includes a wave pool, team-size hot tub, sauna, curling rink, ice arena, indoor climbing wall, track, squash court and skateboard park.

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PEACE RIVER - ANDREW STRAIN

Hudson’s Hope Midway between Chetwynd and Fort St. John, you’ll encounter Hudson’s Hope — a friendly community of 970 on the banks of the Peace River. This Playground of the Peace offers endless outdoor adventure and wildlife viewing opportunities. Power projects, agriculture, and forestry have long been economic drivers here, but oil and gas exploration, guide-outfitting and eco-tourism are growing in importance.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N H U D S O N ’ S H O P E Δ Visit one of the largest dams of its kind: the WAC Bennett Dam, 23 km (14 mi) west of Hudson’s Hope on Canyon Drive. The new WAC Bennett Dam Visitor Centre offers an exciting new interactive area, a theatre, gift shop and café. Open from Victoria Day long weekend to Labour Day long weekend. Δ Stay at one of Four Municipal Campgrounds located along the water. Δ Cast a line and try your luck fishing along the river or at one of the local lakes.

Explore the W.A.C. Bennett Dam Visitor Centre Take a one of a kind tour and enjoy our interactive exhibits.

Open May 18 to September 2, 2019.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., last tour at 3:30 p.m.

Admission fees apply. bchydro.com/bennett BCH19-025

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC HUDSON’S HOPE – CONTINUED…

Δ Tour the Hudson’s Hope Museum. View some of North America’s finest fossilized footprints from the dinosaur era, as well as artifacts from area First Nations, trappers, minors and pioneers — all in a Hudson’s Bay Trading Post. Δ Visit the Peace Canyon Dam, 8 km (5 mi) south of Hudson’s Hope on Highway 29. It re-uses water that has already generated electricity at the WAC Bennett Dam. The new viewing deck offers a great photo opportunity. Δ Explore the Peace River by canoe or power boat. Δ Enjoy a round of golf at Moberly Lake & District Golf Club, a nine-hole course 35 km (22 mi) south of Hudson’s Hope on Highway 29.

HUDSON’S HOPE MUSEUM - SIMON RATCLIFFE

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HUDSON’S HOPE Visit www.hudsonshope.ca, email visitorinfo@hudsonshope.ca or call the Hudson’s Hope Visitor Centre at 250-783-9154 (May through September) or the District Office 250-783-9901 (October through April)

SIMPLE.

Take the scenic Hudson’s Hope loop:

BEAUTIFUL. UNFORGETTABLE.

Municipal Campgrounds (open May - September)

• Dinosaur Lake • Cameron Lake • King Gething • Alwin Holland • 3 private RV parks

Museum • Fossil Displays • Annual Fishing Derby • Outdoor Swimming Pool • Walking Trails Hiking • Baseball Fields • ATV Trails • Skating/Curling Rinks • High School Rodeo Ski Hill • Cross Country Skiing at Cameron Lake • WAC Bennett & Peace Canyon Dams

For more information, contact our Visitor Centre: Tel: 250-783-9154 (May - September) Tel: 250-783-9901 (Off Season) Email: visitorinfo@hudsonshope.ca www.hudsonshope.ca

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Enjoy a variety of scenic camping options:

Join us on Facebook

W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

WOLVERINE DINOSAUR FOOTPRINT SITE, ON THE WOLVERINE RIVER, TUMBLER RIDGE UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK - MIKE SEEHAGEL

Tumbler Ridge Tumbler Ridge (pop. 2,500), found at the junction of Highways 29 and 52, near the confluence of Flatbed Creek and the Murray and Wolverine Rivers, is British Columbia’s youngest community. It is home to the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark, where paleontological history was made in 2000 when two local kids discovered dinosaur tracks in Flatbed Creek. The Geopark boasts British Columbia’s first dinosaur bone beds, comprised of dozens to hundreds of specimens, and nearly 100 dinosaur track sites ranging in age from 135 to 74 million years in age. The Triassic marine reptiles and fish fossils are some of the oldest in the world and of international significance.

The Dinosaur Discovery Gallery and paleontological research centre provide the public with a chance to see examples of these finds, with research contributing new discoveries annually. In addition to walking in the footsteps of dinosaurs, visitors can take in breathtaking alpine vistas and sparkling waterfalls from the impressive network of nearly 40 maintained trails, five provincial parks and nine provincial recreation sites.

N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T U M B L E R R I D G E Δ Take a Dinosaur Trackway Tour. The Flatbed Creek and Wolverine River tours interpret dozens of fossil dinosaur footprints accessed by hiking trails. Guided evening lantern tours illuminate tracks less visible by day, with the sounds of dinosaurs echoing off the valley walls.

Continental Breakfast In House Guest Laundry Fitness Room with Hot Tub On-Site Steakhouse www.trendmountainhotel.com

250.242.2000

375 Southgate, Tumbler Ridge, BC W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

ICE CLIMBING IN TUMBLER RIDGE - JOHNIE GALL

TUMBLER RIDGE – CONTINUED…

Δ Visit the Dinosaur Discovery Gallery to see and learn about fossil finds and ongoing research in the region. Δ Treat the kids to a day- or week-long Dinosaur Camp, including field trips, excavations of dinosaur replicas, and interactive introductions to palaeontology and geology. Δ Explore 37 maintained trails within the Geopark to alpine meadows, old-growth forests, jagged peaks, magnificent waterfalls and ancient canyons. Δ Be inspired by Kinuseo Falls. Visit Monkman Provincial Park to view the impressive falls from the onsite platform,

We do more than just riverboat tours!

See us for: › Jeep Tours › Guided Hikes › Overnight Camping Experiences

› ATV/ORV

› ATV/ORV Rentals

CHOOSE TO EXPERIENCE AN ADVENTURE YOU WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER!

› Camping

Equipment Rentals

Guided Tours

Ph: 833-830-8848 E: randy@wildrivertous.ca www.wildrivertours.ca

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HIKING TUMBLER RIDGE ON THE ALASKA HIGHWAY - EMANUEL SMEDBOL

the short hiking trail, or by pre-booking a riverboat tour through the Visitor Centre. Spend the night at the nearby Monkman Campground. Δ Explore the Monkman Pass Trail along the historic Monkman Pass Highway, and discover the Cascades, a series of 10 waterfalls in succession, Monkman Lake, and the Monkman Tarns. Δ Camp, hike, canoe, motor boat and fish at beautiful Gwillim Lake Provincial Park, 45 km (28 mi) northwest off Highway 29. Δ Drive the self-guided interpretive tour, learning about the fascinating history of the Monkman Pass Highway through free brochures.

HELICOPTER SERVICE www.ridgerotors.com Come Come fly with us to see Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark’s fly with us to see Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark's incredibleincredible lakes, waterfalls and pristine mountain peakspeaks all right lakes, waterfalls and pristine mountain all hereright in our British British Columbia backyard! hereNorthern in our Northern Columbia backyard!

Cell: 250-242-1599 Tollfree: 1-877-242-4211 Cell: 250-242-1599 • Toll •Free: 1-877-242-4211 ridgerotors@ridgerotors.com Email: Email: ridgerotors@ridgerotors.com W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

TUMBLER RIDGE UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Δ Golf at Tumbler Ridge’s scenic and challenging ninehole course. Watch for wildlife! Take the family sledding and skating here in the winter for free at the hill and outdoor rink. Δ Take in live music at Grizfest, with world class rock and country musicians on the long weekend in August. Δ Go off-road in your 4x4, ATV or side by side on the Grizzly Valley ATV Club’s established routes. Δ Explore the winter landscape on over 300 km of maintained trail by snowmobile, over 10 km of groomed trails with cross-country skis, and explore the Geopark’s snowshoeing, skiing and ice climbing.

ENDLESS ADVENTURES. EVERY SEASON.

Δ Unwind after an active day in the whirlpool, sauna or steam room at the Aquatic Centre.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TUMBLER RIDGE Drop in to the Tumbler Ridge Visitor Centre, call them at 1-877-729-3466 or 250-242-3123 and visit www.VisitTumblerRidge.ca and www.trgg.ca

N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

www.TumblerRidge.ca For More Information Call: 250.242.3123 Email: tourism@dtr.ca • info@trgg.ca W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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KISKATINAW BRIDGE, NEAR DAWSON CREEK - MATTHEW MASSA

Dawson Creek With a rich pioneer and World War II history, Dawson Creek is a city of 11,583 people with an economy based on agriculture, forestry, energy and tourism. Located at the junction of four highways, Dawson Creek is Mile 0 of the Alaska Highway.

In 1942, only months after the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbour, Hawaii, Dawson Creek became a staging point of the U.S. government’s ambitious building project: a 2,400 km (1,491 mi) road through vast wilderness stretching from the end of the railway at Dawson Creek to Fairbanks, Alaska. Within a month, the small hamlet

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W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

DAWSON CREEK Mile Zero

of the World Famous Alaska Highway

Alaska Highway House

Visitor Centre

BRING THIS AD TO THE

BRING THIS AD TO THE

ALASKA HIGHWAY HOUSE FOR A FREE

VISITOR CENTRE FOR A FREE PERSONALIZED

10201 – 10th Street 250-782-4714

900 Alaska Avenue 250-782-9595

Admission For One

Mile Zero Certificate

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call Toll Free: 1-866-645-3022 • Email: info@tourismdawsoncreek.com

www.tourismdawsoncreek.com

NBCTA2019

   NBCTA2019

S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

MILE 0 POST, DOWNTOWN DAWSON CREEK - SIMON RATCLIFFE

DAWSON CREEK – CONTINUED…

of Dawson Creek witnessed the arrival of 10,000 American troops, military vehicles, road equipment and civilian workers.

Originating in Dawson Creek, the “Alaskan-Canadian” or “Alcan” Highway is a bucket list trip for RVers as the great Alaska Highway adventure. Local attractions celebrate the city’s unique history.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N D AW S O N C R E E K Δ Take your photo at the Mile 0 Cairn, designated by U.S. army surveyors as the exact beginning of the Alaska Highway, and at the Mile 0 Post, a landmark which celebrates this famous route.

E AW AYS 7D N E OP

EK

DAWSON CREEK ART GALLERY - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Δ Visit Alaska Highway House, opened in 2007, for exhibits and interactive displays about the Alaska Highway story. See fascinating WW II propaganda, video footage, war artifacts, a Willy jeep and take in a screening of the PBS documentary “Building the Alaska Highway”. Pop into the booth to send a personal video postcard to friends and relatives. Δ Visit the Dawson Creek Art Gallery, creatively housed in a renovated 1930s-era grain elevator, for art, handicrafts and displays of historic photos. Δ Pick up the Downtown Historic Walking Tour brochure from the Visitor Centre, and use the route map to unlock Dawson Creek’s past through narration, heritage buildings, local mural projects and archival photos. Δ Tour the Dawson Creek Station Museum in the Northern Alberta Railways Park. View the video documentary on the history of the Alaska Highway, northern wildlife displays, the original 1931 living quarters of the station master and the railroad depot office. Δ During summer, visit Mile 0 Park. At Walter Wright Pioneer Village, stroll the boardwalks with the

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S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

WALTER WRIGHT PIONEER VILLAGE - SIMON RATCLIFFE

complimentary village historic walking tour brochure.

View heritage buildings, memorabilia and artifacts, antique vehicles and farm machinery. Savour the 11 colourful, themed gardens of Gardens North. Picnic, swim and relax with the locals at Rotary Lake. Δ Sample local produce, handicrafts and baked goods.

The Farmer’s Market is open Saturdays February through December at 10300 - 8th Street.

The Gathering, an Artisan Market, is also open Saturdays throughout the summer at Walter Wright Pioneer Village. Δ Enjoy free wireless internet access at hotspots in Northern Alberta Railways Park, downtown Dawson Creek, and Walter Wright Pioneer Village.

POUCE COUPE - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Pouce Coupe Pouce Coupe, population 740, is 10 km (6 mi) east of Dawson Creek. Services include a post office, restaurants, motel, hotel, gas bar / convenience store, RV facilities, and a laundromat. Pouce Coupe is the erroneously translated name of a local First Nations chief, Pooscapee.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N P O U C E C O U P E Δ View the Pouce Coupe Museum. Δ Attend the July 1 Canada Day parade and barbecue at Pouce Coupe Park. Δ Access the internet at the Library.

Δ Walk, jog, blade or cycle the 4.5 km (2.8 mi) Dawson Creek Trail, an asphalt path which hugs the creek and traverses the city.

Δ Camp riverside at Pouce Coupe Park.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T D AW S O N C R E E K Call the Dawson Creek Visitor Centre at 250-782-9595, toll-free 1-866-645-3022, email info@tourismdawsoncreek.com and visit www.tourismdawsoncreek.com

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT POUCE COUPE Call the Visitor Centre 250-786-5555 (May - September) or the Pouce Coupe village office at 250-786-5794, and visit www.poucecoupe.ca

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Δ Visit the rustic local pub, housed in the 1928 Hart Hotel.

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

WHEAT FIELD NEAR FORT ST. JOHN - ANDREW STRAIN

Taylor Sited 56 km (35 mi) north of Dawson Creek on the banks of the Peace River, Taylor prides itself as a quickly growing business-friendly community, but at 1,469 people, it still offers small-town charm. Originally settled by farmers drawn to its fertile soils (including D.H. “Herbie” Taylor,

for whom the town was named), Taylor’s fortunes are now tied to the oil and gas, lumber and pulp industries.

Motels, restaurants and campgrounds await visitors in this community that touts itself as “the place where peace and prosperity meet.”

District of

Lone Wolf Golf Course

“Where peace and prosperity meet!”

Gold Panning Championships

Peace Island Park

Visitor Centre: Open May – September T: 250.789.9015 E: Info@districtoftaylor.com

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T: 250.789.3392

/districtoftaylor

@DistrictTaylor

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S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N TAY L O R Δ Visit Peace Island Park (late May to the end of September). The site spans 3.5 km along the Peace River and is just off the Alaska Highway. Home of the Rocky Mountain Historic Forts and featuring wellserviced campsites, adventure playgrounds, horseshoe pits, swimming, a boat launch, fishing, walking/hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Call 250-789-9295 for camping reservations.

Δ Walk the mostly level 3.5 km (2.1 mi) ParticipACTION Trail, which affords views of the golf course and the wide-open Peace Region landscape.

Δ Check out the Rocky Mountain Historic Forts (in Peace Island Park) — a replica of forts used by the Rocky Mountain Rangers — and its excellent collection of local hunting, trapping and gold-panning artifacts.

Interpretive campfire presentations are planned for July and August; reservations are recommended for these, call 250-789-9295.

Δ Jet boat in the Peace River and ask Visitor Centre about any upcoming jet boat events.

Δ Lone Wolf Golf Course — This 18 hole layout was declared the “Best Manicured Course in Northern BC” and has the longest golf season in the Peace Region.

Enjoy dining in our relaxed atmosphere at the licensed restaurant and patio overlooking this beautiful gem.

Call 250-789-3711 for tee times. Δ Watch or join in the dancing at the annual Spirit of the Peace Pow Wow, held each June. Dancing, drumming, food and handicrafts are highlights of this colourful and family-oriented competition. Everyone is welcome. Δ Attend the World’s Invitational Gold Panning Championships — held August long weekend. Dorse Prosser and Jesse Starnes were the forefathers of the Championships, which have been held annually, in Taylor, BC, since 1972. The Class “A” Event has attracted participants from all around the world.

Δ Enjoy Taylor’s amenities and award-winning recreation facilities: the Ice Centre, curling club, pool, parks, ball diamonds, tennis courts, a motocross track and speedway, community hall and market gardens.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TAYLOR Call the District of Taylor at 250-789-3392, or the Taylor Visitor Centre at 250-789-9015 (May to September) and visit www.districtoftaylor.com

Fort St. John Located in the heart of the Peace Country, Fort St. John is called the “Energetic City” for good reason.

Backed by a strong agricultural community and forest industry, the city is the undisputed oil and gas capital of BC. As the largest BC city on the Alaska Highway and the transportation and supply hub of the area, this economic powerhouse serves a trading area of more than 60,000 people. The 23,000 residents that call this city home like to work hard and play hard. The city offers many top-notch recreational facilities, as well as over 18 km (11.18 mi) of walking trails. With 17 hotels, numerous restaurants, plenty of shopping, and its central location, Fort St. John makes a good jumping off point for day trips touring around northern BC.

VALLEY OF FORT ST. JOHN - ANDREW STRAIN

N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

CARVING ICE AT THE HIGH ON ICE WINTER FESTIVAL - RYAN DICKIE

FORT ST. JOHN NORTH PEACE MUSEUM - SIMON RATCLIFFE

FORT ST. JOHN – CONTINUED…

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N F O R T S T. J O H N Δ Check out the Pomeroy Sport Centre that hosts an indoor Olympic sized ice oval (only 1 of 4 in North America), two NHL-size ice rinks and a free walking track.

Δ Discover Fort St John’s history through the downtown Pioneer Pathway. Panels depict the pioneer days starting back to the 1920s. Call the Visitor Centre for more information 1-877-785-6037 or visit 9234 96 St. Δ Visit the Museum located at 9323 100 St. to explore a tepee, trapper’s cabin, 1921 school room and browse the gift shop. Δ Take in a show: Visit www.npcc.bc.ca for info on live theatre, dance and concerts at the North Peace Cultural Centre, or www.thelido.ca for events at The Lido, originally built as a movie theatre in 1957 and recently reborn as a venue for cultural events. Δ On the Family Day long weekend celebrate High on Ice, BC’s only ice carving competition. The event also features snow carving, ice slides, a dodgeball tournament, snow slo-pitch, ice fishing, sleigh rides, sledding and children’s entertainment.

Visit www.fortstjohn.ca/ice for more information.

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S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

CHARLIE LAKE MONUMENT, ALASKA HIGHWAY NEAR FORT ST. JOHN - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Δ Annual pond hockey tournament on Charlie Lake. The Crystal Cup has something for everyone; enter a team, or just enjoy live music, an ice bar and children’s activities.

More information at www.thecrystalcup.ca Δ Start your engines! Drag racing, stock car racing and moto-X racing takes place throughout the summer months. Δ Grab local produce and items from the Farmers’ Market, open from May to October. Δ Check out the Charlie Lake Marsh and Monument at Mile 52 of the Alaska Highway, a beautiful spot to bird watch with a playground and boat launch. Δ Camp at Charlie Lake Provincial Park or Beatton Provincial Park, with 12 km of forested trails great for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or hiking.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T F O R T S T. J O H N Call the Fort St. John Visitor Centre at 250-785-3033.

Email: visitorinfo@fortstjohn.ca, or visit www.fortstjohn.ca

WE GIVE THE GIFT OF CULTURE AND A PLACE TO BELONG. Retail & consignment products, handcrafted artwork & accessories by local artisans. Jewelry & Accessories, Clothing & Footwear, Self-care Products, Art & Craft Supplies, Books & Education, Home Décor, Plus Workshops & Seminars 10055 – 100th Ave, Fort St. John, BC • 250.785.1870 • E: office@neabc.ca N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

WILD PLAINS BISON ALONG THE ALASKA HIGHWAY - ANDREW STRAIN

Pink Mountain Halfway between Fort St. John and Fort Nelson is the tiny hamlet of Pink Mountain. Look west for the similarly named peak, which exudes a rosy glow at sunrise and under the late-summer blaze of fireweed blossoms. Reach Pink Mountain Provincial Park by turning west off the highway onto seasonal road #192. Wildlife includes BC’s only wild plains bison, and rare populations of arctic butterflies.

Large Mesozoic Era marine fossils, including the largest icthyosaur ever discovered, were found here.

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S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

FORT NELSON HERITAGE MUSEUM - GABRIEL MUNHOZ

GROUP HORSEBACK RIDING IN THE MUSKWA-KECHIKA - TAYLOR BURK

Fort Nelson and the Northern Rockies Initially established as a fur trading post in 1805, Fort Nelson later became “Mile 300” of the Alaska Highway, contributing labour, supplies and logistical support to the epic 1942 construction effort. Today, this resource community of 3,000 is focusing its efforts to diversify beyond the oil and gas and forestry industries. Anchored by the Alaska Highway, tourism continues to grow in importance, as the town has been discovered as a natural base for backcountry exploration of some of BC’s most magnificent landscapes. Cross-country skiers, photographers, backpackers, canoeists, and kayakers flock to Fort Nelson, eager to explore eight provincial parks located within an easy drive. Plentiful wildlife makes big game hunting and fly-in fishing popular.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N F O R T N E L S O N AND THE NORTHERN ROCKIES Δ Step back into Fort Nelson’s past at the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum. Collections include running antique vehicles and artifacts from the construction of the Alaska Highway. A “don’t miss” experience!

Δ Plan a hiking adventure with a local guide available at the Visitor Centre, and the many trail maps available online. Trailhead signage is visible from points along the Alaska Highway, displaying GPS waypoints, maps and trail descriptions. Δ Learn about the “Serengeti of the North” by visiting the Muskwa-Kechika kiosk at the Visitor Centre, or at interpretive panels at sites along the Alaska Highway. Δ Enjoy nine holes of golf, with views of the Northern Rockies, at Poplar Hills Golf & Country Club. Facilities include driving range, grass greens, pro shop, club and power cart rentals, lounge, and RV parking. In midsummer, play a red-eye round at midnight in broad daylight at BC’s northern-most course. Δ Hire a guide for tours of the Northern Rockies on foot, horseback, canoe, riverboat, or charter flight. Δ November to February enjoy the Aurora Borealis in clear night skies. Meteor showers can add to the excitement, making any photographer’s dream come true. Δ In the Spring, cheer on the dog teams, at the Canadian Open Dog Sled Championship, an international event held in Fort Nelson for almost 50 years.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FORT NELSON AND THE NORTHERN ROCKIES Call the Visitor Centre at 250-774-6400 year round, and visit www.tourismnorthernrockies.ca

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W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

Welcome to the Northern Rockies, the bountiful northeast corner of British Columbia with some of the wildest lands in Canada. Here the mountain air is crisp, the land untouched, and the opportunities for outdoor exploration truly endless.

Vibrant communities with welcoming folks ready to greet you wherever you go, the Northern Rockies are a great place to stop and stay awhile.

www.TourismNorthernRockies.ca Fort Nelson Tetsa River Summit Lake Toad River Muncho Lake Liard River Hot Springs Coal River Fireside Contact Creek Photo: Destination BC/Andrew Strain

S E C T I O N 1 : NO R T H EAST BC

MUNCHO LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK - ANDREW STRAIN

STONE MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK - MATTHEW MASSA

Stone Mountain Provincial Park About 100 km (62 mi) west of Fort Nelson, you’ll enter the northern tip of Stone Mountain Provincial Park — a 257 km2 (99 mi2) preserve of pristine wilderness. Spend a couple nights at the Tetsa River Regional Park, camping on the banks, fishing for grayling, and enjoying day hikes including the Tetsa #1 Trail.

At Summit Lake, from mid-May to September, 28 vehicleaccessible, limited-service campsites are available on a firstcome, first-serve basis. Self-sufficient walk-in camping is also permitted in many areas beyond Summit Lake, where several short day hikes start from the camping area. Unforgettable views reward well-equipped, experienced backcountry adventurers exploring the park on multi-day treks.

Not far beyond, experience the small but welcoming community of Toad River, where the local residents are as abundant in character as the hats on the ceiling of the Toad River Lodge. Take in the 360 degree view of the Sentinel Ranges from the top of Nonda Creek trail, or for the more adventurous, launch a canoe or kayak near Centennial Falls and float the Toad River for the afternoon to the wooden bridge just before Stone Mountain Safaris. Ranked Class 1 and 2 for canoeing.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT STONE M O U N TA I N P R O V I N C I A L PA R K Visit www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks

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S ECTION 1: NORTHEA S T B C

Muncho Lake Provincial Park Just 86 km (53 mi) northwest from Stone Mountain Park, explore another Northern Rockies treasure, Muncho Lake Provincial Park. Private lodges, RV parks, and 30 lakeshore campsites offer easy access to the jade waters of this 12 km (7 mi) long glacial lake. It was named “Muncho” (“big lake”) by the Kaska people, who have sourced food here for millennia. Catch (and preferably, release!) lake trout, bull trout, mountain whitefish, and Arctic grayling.

Scale the range opposite the lake for a truly one-of-akind view, or explore the alluvial fans that open up to the shores of the lake. Also watch for moose, caribou, and Stone’s sheep, or the odd black bear looking for a cold drink from the lake.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MUNCHO LAKE P R O V I N C I A L PA R K Visit www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks

Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park About 60 km (38 mi) beyond Muncho Lake Provincial Park, experience an unforgettable natural phenomenon: Liard River Hot Springs. The pool fills naturally with water that has been heated deep underground by the earth’s core, pressurized and forced back to the surface along faults in sedimentary rock under the park. Water temperatures reach up to 52˚C (126˚F), creating an oasis-like microclimate that is as appreciated by birds and animals as it has been by humans for millennia. This unique ecosystem hosts a unique diversity of plant life, including orchids, ostrich ferns, cow parsnip and carnivorous aquatic plants.

The springs are quite magical in winter, when sub-zero temperatures combine with steam to fringe surrounding vegetation with shimmering hoarfrost. Seasonally, rustic campsites (some can be reserved ahead), are available, and washrooms, change rooms and boardwalk are open all year.

A nominal fee is charged for camping and day use, with an onsite operator for guests’ comfort.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LIARD RIVER H O T S P R I N G S P R O V I N C I A L PA R K Call 1-800-689-9025 or visit www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks To reserve a site, visit www.discovercamping.ca

N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

LIARD HOT SPRINGS - MEGAN MCLELLAN

LIARD HOTSPRINGS LODGE OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND

1-866-939-2522

www.liardhotspringslodgebc.com

Licensed Restaurant, RV Park, Rooms and Convenience Store.

Only a 10 minute walk from Liard Hotsprings.

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Section 2

nw

northWest

40

n

(LEFT) GITANYOW HISTORICAL VILLAGE POLES - MARTY CLEMENS (BELOW) CANOEING AT PRUDHOMME LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK NEAR PRINCE RUPERT - MIKE SEEHAGEL

“Serene glacial lakes, salmon-rich rivers and impossibly long summer Days. Soaring glaciers, frozen waterfalls and reliably deep powder snow in winter.”

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Section 2

Northwest BRITISH COLUMBIA

(BELOW LEFT) MOUNTAIN BIKING IN CROWN PASS - ROBIN O'NEILL (BELOW RIGHT) EAGLE IN PRINCE RUPERT - GRANT HARDER (BOTTOM) BOER MOUNTAIN TRAILS - DAVID SILVER (OPPOSITE PAGE) SEAPLANE IN TWEEDSMUIR GLACIER LAKE - TAYLOR BURK

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A

LPINE MEADOWS AND sun-bleached sea shells.

Playful orcas and elusive “spirit” bears. Eclectic festivals and rollicking rodeos. Follow Highway 16 west from Prince George, and watch

W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

S ECTION 2: NORTHWE S T B C

BC’s northwest open these treasures to you.

The forestry and agriculture town of Vanderhoof offers easy access to Fort St. James, western Canada’s oldest fur trading post restored to the year 1896. At Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake, you’re near the start of BC’s very own Lakes District and the area’s campsites and resorts will tempt you to stay and play in variety of clear, sparkling lakes.

In Burns Lake, mountain bike trails, from easy to challenging, draw avid cyclists. The village also makes a great

jumping-off point for adventure in the wilds of Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. Just outside of Houston, where you can enjoy incredible steelhead fishing and explore unparalleled snowmobile trail networks, Highway 16 crests Hungry Hill — heralding a dramatic change in landscape. Meet the glacier-crowned Bulkley Valley, with its neighbouring towns of Telkwa and Smithers. Limitless kayaking and canoeing opportunities, backcountry trails to suit all levels of hiker and cross-country skier, skiing and boarding on Hudson Bay Mountain,

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and a flourishing local music scene explain why these towns are a mecca for creatives and outdoors-lovers.

Journey westward and feel the history and vitality of First Nations cultures.

In late summer, watch Wet’suwet’en fishermen dip net the raging waters of the Moricetown Canyon for salmon — as they have since time immemorial.

At ’Ksan, a recreated Gitxsan village and an interpretive centre in Old Hazelton, take a narrated longhouse tour to learn about pre and postEuropean contact life. In nearby villages like Kispiox and Gitanyow,

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KLEANZA CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK - EMANUEL SMEDBOL

SALMON GLACIER - MARTY CLEMENS

NORTHWEST BC – CONTINUED…

ponder the legends of nearly 50 standing totem poles.

At Kitwanga Junction, a decision awaits: head north on Highway 37 (a.k.a. the Stewart-Cassiar) for the 725 km (450 mi) drive toward the Yukon, or continue west on Highway 16 toward the coastal city of Prince Rupert.

The Stewart-Cassiar Highway (37) offers dazzling, sparsely populated landscapes. For breathtaking glaciers, bear-viewing opportunities and some colourful Canada / U.S. border-town history, take Highway 37A to visit the communities of Stewart, BC and Hyder, Alaska.

Upon returning to Highway 37, treat yourself to deluxe food and four-star accommodation at Bell 2 Lodge before approaching the best of northwestern BC wilderness parks: Mount Edziza, the Spatsizi Plateau

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and the awe-inspiring Stikine River Provincial Park. Before continuing on toward the Yukon, take a refreshing dip in the aquamarine waters of Boya Lake.

Equally memorable attractions await, if you choose to continue west on Highway 16, past Kitwanga.

In Terrace, find out why recordbreaking salmon fishing lures anglers from around the world 10 months of the year. Discover first-rate whitewater that draws paddlers in droves, or ski the steep, deep powder at Canada’s first non-profit, co-op ski hill, Shames Mountain. Explore First Nations culture at Kitselas Canyon, and Terrace’s Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art, part of Northwest Community College.

Before carrying on to Prince Rupert, make a side-trip down Highway 37 south to Kitimat for excellent

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saltwater fishing, or perhaps detour to Kitamaat Village, to visit Haisla First Nation artists.

At Port Edward, the North Pacific Cannery National Historic site offers a compelling look at the region’s multicultural past. Return to Highway 16 to the coast to arrive at Prince Rupert. Besides important ferry connections, this port city offers phenomenal fishing and wildlifeviewing opportunities, sophisticated galleries and restaurants, and magnificent museums — all seasoned by the cultural influence of the Tsimshian people and the many moods of the northern rainforest. Where else in the world could you find all of this, but northwestern BC?

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S ECTION 2: NORTHWE S T B C

VANDERHOOF - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Vanderhoof Nestled in the fertile Nechako Valley, on the banks of the Nechako River, Vanderhoof is the geographical centre of British Columbia. Vanderhoof is also the home of the Nechako White Sturgeon and a Migratory Bird Sanctuary.

The Vanderhoof area has been occupied by the Carrier people for millennia. Envisioned as a writers’ and artists’ retreat by Herbert Vanderhoof, the Chicago writer for whom this community was later named, the town was ultimately founded by ranchers. This friendly forestry and ranching community of 4,480 claims status as BC’s oldest European-settled agricultural community. It was home to Order of Canada recipient, activist and local author, Mary John, as well as rancher Rich Hobson, author of “Nothing Too Good For A Cowboy”. With four distinct seasons, there are many entertaining activities to experience in and around the community.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N VA N D E R H O O F Δ Visit the Vanderhoof Community Museum. Open from May to September, its heritage buildings include the OK Café (still operating) which once offered meals for 50 cents!

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The Heart is Beckoning

For Connection

Vanderhoof is geographically located near the centre of BC. Whether you are looking for adventure, outdoor exploration or a fun activity with the family we have something for everyone. Connect to nature and the surrounding beauty of the Nechako River Valley.

The Heart of it All VISIT VANDERHOOF.CA W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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Δ Visit the Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Centre. Open year round, come tour the state-ofthe-art facility designed to rehabilitate this ancient endangered species. Gaze upon Unel'tsoo, the grandmother sturgeon who is over 100 years old and 3 metres long. Δ In the spring and fall, watch birds (ducks, geese, swans, etc.) at the Vanderhoof Migratory Bird Sanctuary. A Nature Guide and a bird watching checklist is available.

NECHAKO RIVER, NEAR VANDERHOOF - SIMON RATCLIFFE

Plan, Discover and Explore with the

bulkley-nechako discovery app visitbulkleynechako.ca

Δ Walk the Community Trail Network. There are four sections that skirt the community, each with a kiosk explaining the significance of the trail section. These can be found in the Vanderhoof Community Trails & Tours booklet at the Visitor Centre. Δ Fun for the entire family? Riverside Park and Campground includes RV and tenting sites (some with electricity and water), sani-dump, flush toilets and showers, covered picnic area, children’s playground, outdoor fitness equipment, lit walking track and a beach volleyball net. Ferland Park is equipped with a children’s playground and Spray Park. The “Concert in the Park” is also held here annually. Δ Enjoy hockey, curling, golfing, biking, bowling, soccer, tennis, cross-country skiing, rugby, slopitch, football and many other recreational activities throughout the year. Δ Hike, fish and hunt at numerous lakes in Big River Country south of Vanderhoof. Check out Kenney Dam and Cheslatta Falls for an interesting day trip.

The Camping, Fishing, Hunting, and Hiking Guide to the Nechako Valley highlights more options for your wilderness adventure. Δ Join us in various celebrations throughout the year including Canada Day, Fall Fair, Airshow, Pumpkin Walk and Parade of Lights. Δ Self-guided tour booklets have been produced to guide you to local discoveries such as the Grand Reo Theatre.

Once a parlour and now a movie theatre, it has stood at this corner with its original façade for 90 years.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T VA N D E R H O O F Call the Visitor Centre at 250-567-3374 in the summer or 250-567-4711 in the winter and visit www.vanderhoof.ca

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Fort St. James Fort St. James is located on the shores of Stuart Lake, 62 km (37 mi) north of Vanderhoof, on Highway 27. This town of 2,000 is one of BC’s oldest permanent settlements, established in 1806 by Simon Fraser. He called the area New Caledonia to honour his Scottish home.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N F O R T S T. J A M E S Δ Visit the Fort St. James Historic Site (June to late September). This original trading post and compound has the largest group of original wood buildings representing the Canadian fur trade, and artifacts from the 1880s.

FORT. ST. JAMES - RUTH LLOYD, CALEDONIA COURIER

FORT ST. JAMES NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE - CLINT FRASER

Δ Canoe the magnificent 112 km (70 mi) Nation Lakes Canoe Route, which spans four lakes and three rivers. Δ Camp at Sowchea Bay or Paarens Beach on Stuart Lake. Δ Tip your hat to bush pilot legend Russ Baker (19101958), at a memorial on the bluffs overlooking the lake near the Cottonwood Marina. Renowned for daring rescue operations, Baker helped make Fort St. James one of the largest bush plane bases in northern BC. View the scale replica of a 1920s-era Junkers W-34 at Cottonwood Park. Δ Hike and rock climb in Mount Pope Provincial Park.

A 6.5 km (4 mi) trail to the peak offers panoramic views of Stuart Lake and mountains. Δ Ski, board or cross-country ski at Murray Ridge Ski Hill.

Its T-bar is the longest in North America.

FRASER LAKE - REGIONAL DISTRICT OF BULKLEY-NECHAKO

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T F O R T S T. J A M E S Call the Visitor Information Centre at 250-996-2127 (summer), 250-996-8233 (winter). Visit www.fortstjames.ca

Fort Fraser Only 37 km (22 mi) from Vanderhoof, discover one of BC’s oldest European-founded settlements: Fort Fraser.

Established in 1806 by Simon Fraser, it’s also where the last spike was driven, in 1914, on the railway which opened up central BC, the Grand Trunk Pacific. This community of under 1,000 includes a post office, motel, gas station / restaurant, laundromat, and churches.

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REGIONS OF THE NORTH NORTHEAST BC

Juneau

NORTHWEST BC

HAIDA GWAII BC

Fort Nelson Dawson Creek Prince Rupert

Prince George

Jasper

Sandspit

PACIFIC OCEAN

Kamloops Vancouver

Kelowna Cranbrook

DISTANCE CHART IN KILOMETRES Distances given are for the shortest highway routes. Visit www.NorthernBCTourism.com for more detailed distance information.

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NortherN BriTisH CoLumBia

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FISHING AT PONDOSY BAY IN NORTH TWEEDSMUIR PROVINCIAL PARK - TAYLOR BURK

AERIAL VIEW OF TESLA LAKE LODGE - TAYLOR BURK

Fraser Lake Situated at the eastern edge of the Lakes District, 20 km (13 mi) west of Fort Fraser, Fraser Lake’s 1,150 residents enjoy all the outdoor recreation activities the area has to offer.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N F R A S E R L A K E

BEAUMONT PROVINCIAL PARK - CLINT FRASER

Beaumont Provincial Park Camp, picnic, swim, and fish in Fraser Lake in Beaumont Provincial Park — just 4 km (2.5 mi) west of Fort Fraser.

The shallow water makes it a great place to take small children.

GREAT FISHING, WILDLIFE VIEWING, HIKING AND BOATING ON THE SHORES OF FRANÇOIS LAKE. 8 modern cabins with full bathrooms and Kitchenettes. Serviced and unserviced camping sites and a beautiful church for weddings, memorials and gatherings...

Email: bonfehr@gmail.com Call: 250-695-6399

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Δ Drop by the Fraser Lake Museum & Visitor Center, located on highway 16, and learn about the community’s history. Δ Visit White Swan Park on the shores of Fraser Lake for a walk, a swim or to enjoy the waterfront scenery. 11 free RV waterfront campsites are available and a boat launch provides easy access to the lake. Δ Enjoy several vantage points along the Mouse Mountain trails. The summit of this 4 km (2.5 mi) walking and hiking trail system offers breath taking views. Δ Fish the world class Stellako River that flows from Francois Lake to Fraser Lake for trophy-class wild native rainbow trout to anglers. As a catch and release river, great fishing is sure to endure.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FRASER LAKE Call the village at 250-699-6257 or visit www.fraserlake.ca

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MOUNTAIN BIKING IN BURNS LAKE - ROBIN O'NEILL

Burns Lake Burns Lake is the heart of BC’s Lakes District, 70 km (44 mi) west of Fraser Lake. Forestry, agriculture, mining and tourism drive this community of 2,700.

Δ Attend music festivals, the fall fair, Aboriginal Day celebration, mountain bike races and hockey tournaments.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N B U R N S L A K E

Δ Ski 25 km (15.53 mi) of cross-country trails, groomed by the Omineca Ski Club.

Δ Visit the Lakes District Museum. Find out how the log building that served as a fur trading post and gambling den earned its macabre moniker, Bucket of Blood. Δ Mountain bike the extensive trail network that Bike magazine called “some of the sweetest single track on earth”, at Burns Lake Mountain Bike Park. Δ Explore the north end of one of BC’s largest provincial parks: Tweedsmuir. Access it via float plane, boat, horseback or on foot via the Alexander Mackenzie Trail.

Be well-equipped and experienced, or hire a guide. Δ Drive the Lakes District Circle Tour for views of Tweedsmuir Park, Mount Wells, Ootsa Lake and Nadina Mountain, and the free ferry ride on Francois Lake. Δ Camp or stay at cabins, RV parks and resorts at any of 4,800 km (3,000 mi) of lakes, including Uncha, Tchesinkut, and Takysie Lakes. Hike, boat, canoe or kayak — bring your own or rent from most resorts.

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FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BURNS LAKE Visit or call the Burns Lake Visitor Centre at 250-692-3773, or visit www.visitburnslake.ca

Unique fly in lodge with six cabins bordering the lake. Excellent for: • Fly Fishing • Canoeing • Hiking • Relaxation

E: info@tetachucklodge.com

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BABINE LAKE IN GRANISLE - CARLA LEWIS

Granisle

Houston

To reach Granisle, drive 51 km (32 mi) west from Burns Lake (30 km / 17 mi east of Houston), and turn north at Topley onto Highway 118. The 49 km (30 mi) drive from here to Granisle often rewards visitors with glimpses of wildlife. This former mining town now serves year-round visitors exploring BC’s longest (177 km / 110 mi) freshwater lake: Babine Lake. Local services include a boat launch and marina, hotel, resort, campgrounds, restaurant, convenience store and a gas bar for auto and marine gas.

Nestled in the Pleasant Valley located near the confluence of the Bulkley and Morice Rivers is the home to the community of Houston. An outdoor enthusiast’s playground providing outdoor opportunities from world class steelhead fishing to snowmobiling the pristine mountain ranges that surround the community. Houston’s population of 3,200 is supported mainly by forestry, mining, and tourism. Houston is the gateway to the Nanika-Kidprice Provincial Park known for its world class back country canoe route.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N G R A N I S L E Δ Fish for rainbow trout, as well as steelhead and sockeye in season. Δ Drop in to the Visitor Centre and Museum, located in a log building near the entrance of town. This building also showcases work by local crafters. Δ Picnic and camp at Lion’s Beach Campground or the user-maintained Bear Island. Δ Camp, picnic, swim and relax at Red Bluff Provincial Park and stroll a lovely trail between Red Bluff and the marina.

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W H AT T O S E E A N D D O I N H O U S T O N Δ Golf nine holes at the Willow Grove Golf and Country Club. Δ Take a selfie at the world’s largest freestanding (18 m / 60 ft) fly rod. Its located in Steelhead Park along Highway 16 beside the Houston Visitor Centre. The park also features a wolf totem pole, a steelhead sculpture fountain, a 975 lb. mounted grizzly bear, and the replica ancient silver grinding stone which was a gift to Equity Silver Mines from its sister mine in Mexico.

Δ Visit the world’s largest sockeye salmon spawning channels, 11 km (6.83 mi) south of town: the Fulton River Spawning Channels. August is the best time to visit.

Δ Visit the Houston Museum Society’s “Walk Through History” (adjacent to the Visitor Centre) to view Houston’s first school house from 1916, first Anglican Church, fire truck of the community and much more.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GRANISLE Call the seasonally operated Visitor Centre at 250-697-2428, email infocentre@villageofgranisle.ca year-round or visit www.granisle.ca

Δ Enjoy a day at the Houston leisure facility. An amazing facility that offers a fitness centre, hot tub, steam room, therapeutic leisure pool with a lazy river and a four lane competition pool.

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Δ Cross-country ski the groomed Morice Mountain ski trails with 26 km of various terrain ranging from easy, moderate and difficult trails through a beautiful scenic forest. Enjoy the 2 km lit trails for night skiing. Δ Snowmobile adventurous areas in its pristine beauty of the Telkwa Mountain Range, Dungate Meadows, Tableland Mountain and the Rhine Ridge and Sibola Mountain. Δ Fish the world class Morice River known for its largest Steelhead return in the world, as well as amazing returns of Pink, Chum, Sockeye and Coho. Δ For the avid hiker explore the amazing hiking trails from beginner to advanced levels enjoying waterfalls, Forest Service look out stations, or the famous China Knows Mountain trail. Δ Explore the provincial parks from hiking, canoeing to boating. Houston is the gateway to Nadina Mountain, Morice Lake, Little Andrews Bay and Nanika-Kidprice Provincial parks.

STEELHEAD PARK, HOUSTON - REGIONAL DISTRICT OF BULKLEY-NECHAKO

Δ Visit the Pleasant Valley Community Market Fridays June to September. Δ Mountain bike the trails at Mt. Harry Davis. The Broken Spokes and Sticks and Stones, both moderate

Naturally Amazing Drawing visitors from around the world, the steelhead fishing here is legendary. In fact, Houston is known as the Steelhead Capital of Canada.

Houston is situated in an area that is rife with wildlife, waterways and a wide variety of activities suited to every season.

For the fisherman, the hiker, the camper…there’s something for everyone. Come to Houston to experience the welcome hospitality and one of BC’s best kept secrets.

District of Houston

250.845.2238 www.houston.ca

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Houston & District Chamber of Commerce

250.845.7640 www.houstonchamber.ca

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HOUSTON – CONTINUED…

trails, offer great views of the valley. The advanced Twisted Metal features switchbacks down steep terrain, challenging riders. Rated easy are De-Railed Trail and Chutes’n’Roots, a fun flowy trail that winds down the mountain through a growing plantation.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOUSTON Call 250-845-7640 and visit www.houstonchamber.ca

Telkwa Discover Telkwa’s vintage charm, 14 km (9 mi) south of Smithers on Highway 16. This rural village of 1,300 borders Tyhee Lake Provincial Park and straddles the banks of the Bulkley and Telkwa Rivers. Residents and visitors alike are captivated by Telkwa’s optimistic spirit, abundant recreation opportunities and snow-capped mountains.

GRIZZLY BEAR, NEAR HOUSTON - REGIONAL DISTRICT OF BULKLEY-NECHAKO

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T E L K WA Δ Flyfish the plentiful Bulkley and Telkwa Rivers.

FLY FISHING IN NORTHERN BC - JEREMY KORESKI

Δ Explore limitless hiking in the Telkwa environs — from easy family walks to rugged multi-day excursions to backcountry cabins. Δ Join the Bulkley Valley Backpackers for guided day hikes and ski excursions on Sunday mornings. Δ Camp, canoe and fish at numerous lakes and streams. Δ Kayak or raft area rivers and fabulous whitewater. Δ Enjoy a walking tour of Telkwa’s 26 restored heritage buildings, including the 1910 St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Hong Chong’s Laundry and Bath House and the Interior Creamery (c. 1939). Δ Stroll community trails between Tyhee Lake Provincial Park campground, the former Aldermere townsite, and Telkwa’s downtown. Δ Tour Narnia Farms, a working organic farm with gorgeous display gardens, a shop and home-made refreshments. Δ Seniors, inquire about regular activities hosted by the Telkwa Seniors Centre.

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(ABOVE) MOTORCYCLISTS RIDING IN SMITHERS - JONG SUN PARK (RIGHT) PADDLEBOARDING AT SEYMOUR LAKE IN SMITHERS - MARTY CLEMENS

Smithers Δ Attend July 1 Canada Day celebrations. Δ On Labour Day weekend, attend the Telkwa Barbeque — a weekend of softball, demolition derby and concerts. Δ In winter, skate free at one of Telkwa’s two outdoor rinks — and when conditions are right, on the expansive ice of Tyhee Lake! Δ Cross-country ski at Tyhee Lake Provincial Park, and have a winter picnic at its two covered, firewoodstocked shelters. Ski into several backcountry wilderness cabins, maintained by BC Parks, private companies or volunteer associations (typically require fees and reservations). Δ Snowmobile extensive trail networks at places like the Big Onion, Dome Mountain and the Microwave.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T T E L K WA Call Telkwa Village at 250-846-9572, and visit www.telkwa.com N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

Just 14 km (9 mi) west of Telkwa on Highway 16, you’ll arrive at Smithers, pop. 5,400. Its red-bricked Main Street is graced by alpine-themed architecture and murals celebrating the Bulkley Valley landscape, and crowned by the monumental presence of Hudson Bay Mountain — all fitting in a town where people are crazy for mountains and the recreation possibilities they bring! Smithers’ friendly, active residents are employed in services, forestry, mining, agriculture and tourism.

Meet them, and discover why this town is as easily identified with dynamism as it is year-round recreation opportunities.

Smithereens value co-operation, entrepreneurial spirit and the arts. There’s a healthy local appetite for hosting, performing and learning diverse music styles, with numerous coffeehouses, house concerts, concerts, dances and instructional events.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N S M I T H E R S Δ Hike the Valley’s inexhaustible trail network, which range from quick and easy jaunts to challenging, multiday excursions. Try the two-hour hike from the lift at Hudson Bay Mountain to Crater Lake — and take a bracing dip! Explore the Telkwa Range and Babine W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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FISH CREEK IN SMITHERS - GRANT HARDER

SMITHERS – CONTINUED…

Mountains Provincial Park. Get great views of the valley, and the cooling spray of two towering waterfalls, at Glacier Gulch and Twin Falls, just 15 minutes’ drive from downtown. A two-hour hike up a rough, steep trail near the base of the falls ascends to the glacier above.

(Note: it is dangerous to walk on any glacier without appropriate equipment and experience.) Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, like mountain goats! Δ Fish for coveted steelhead and four species of Pacific salmon. Δ Tour the Bulkley Valley trails on horseback or mountain bike — on your own or with a tour. View 50 millionyear-old fossils at nearby Driftwood Canyon. Δ Explore rivers, from serene to class four-plus whitewater, by boat, canoe, kayak or raft. Δ Explore the life cycle of the precious salmon resource, at the Toboggan Creek Salmon Hatchery.

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HUDSON BAY MOUNTAIN RESORT - ANDREW STRAIN

Δ Attend any of Smithers’ frequent musical coffeehouses, concerts, dances or music-instruction camps. Find out more by asking at local bookstores. Δ Uncover Smithers’ stories, at the Bulkley Valley Museum and the Smithers Art Gallery. Δ Look for books and documentaries produced by local writers. Δ Enjoy live entertainment, produce, home cooking and treats at the Bulkley Valley Farmers’ Market, Saturdays from May to October. Δ Ski and board at Hudson Bay Mountain, only 30 minutes from downtown Smithers. Δ Cross-country ski at the Bulkley Valley Nordic Centre, or to several backcountry cabins in the area (fees, reservations typically required for overnight stays).

Δ Golf at two 18-hole golf courses.

Δ Enjoy heli-skiing and ski mountaineering in nearby ranges. Backcountry ski or hike in the Hankin-Evelyn Backcountry Recreation area. Ask for details at the Visitor Centre.

Δ Hear high-quality music, including more than 70 local, regional and national bands, at the three-day Midsummer Music Festival.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SMITHERS Call the Visitor Centre at 1-800-542-6673 or 250-847-5072 and visit www.tourismsmithers.com

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Get good

natured.

www.TourismSmithers.com

Babine Mountains Provincial Park. photo: John Welburn

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WITSET CANYON - MARTY CLEMENS

Witset (Moricetown)

The Hazeltons

Halfway between Smithers and New Hazelton is Witset (Moricetown) — a Wet’suwet’en First Nation village of 800. View the late-summer spectacle of traditional indigenous salmon fishing in the crashing whitewater of the Witset Canyon — as practiced by the Wet’suwet’en for millennia. Visit the Witset Interpretive Centre, camp across the river at the Witset campground, and sport-fish with a permit.

A handful of close communities are collectively referred to as the Hazeltons: the District of New Hazelton, 68 km (42 mi) northwest of Smithers on Highway 16, the Village of Hazelton, 7 km (4 mi) northwest at the confluence of the Skeena and Bulkley Rivers, and several unincorporated settlements including South Hazelton. Look west to see the magnificent peak of Roche de Boule — associated, in Gitxsan First Nation legend, with a shape-shifting goat who punishes villagers for thoughtless cruelty to animals.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T H E H A Z E LT O N S Δ Tour the First Nations heritage site, ’Ksan Historical Village and Museum. Learn about Gitxsan history and culture, see traditional regalia and watch carvers at work. Δ Drive around the Totem Pole Capital of the World.

More than 50 authentic, impressive totem poles can be seen in the Hazeltons and surrounding villages. Drive, or park your car so you can walk over Hagwilget Bridge. It’s one of the highest suspension bridges in North America, and views from here are truly inspiring.

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Δ Enjoy a walking tour through picturesque Old Hazelton.

Heritage buildings recall the pre-railroad era of steamdriven sternwheelers that braved serious rapids to service the area from the coast. Δ Fish the world-class Kispiox River for steelhead, coho, rainbow, cutthroat and dolly varden. Δ Enjoy the Pioneer Day parade and celebrations in historic “Old Town”, the second Saturday in August. Δ Explore the backcountry on foot, or on skis. To access real adventure potential, hire a guide. Δ Canada Day celebrations at Allen Park, New Hazelton on July 1st.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T T H E H A Z E LT O N S Call the seasonally operated Visitor Centre at 250-842-6071, or the Village office year-round at 250-842-5991 or visit www.newhazelton.ca KSAN HISTORICAL VILLAGE - ANDREW STRAIN

CANOEING ON EXSTEW RIVER - GRANT HARDER

At this point …

You can either continue along Highway 16 west or you can turn north and experience the Stewart-Cassiar Highway. Information on this northern trek is provided next. A further description of what awaits you if you are to continue along Highway 16 resumes on page 65 — with a description of majestic Terrace.

FOR REFERENCE, SEE THE MAP ON PAGE 48

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KITWANGA - TIM SWANKY

P O R T L A N D C A N A L , S T E W A R T - M I K E S E E H A G E L / R E G I O N A L D I S T R I C T O F K I T I M A T - S T I K I N E

Kitwanga & Gitanyow

Meziadin Junction

The Gitxsan village of Kitwanga, also known by its Gitxsan name, Gitwangak, is found at the junction of Highways 16 and 37. Prince Rupert-bound travellers continue west on Highway 16, while Yukon-bound travellers turn north onto Highway 37 (the Stewart-Cassiar). Just 4 km (2.5 mi) over the Skeena River bridge on Highway 37, encounter another Gitxsan village — Gitanyow, formerly known as Kitwancool.

About 155 km (100 mi) north of Kitwanga, reach the Meziadin Junction. A tough choice awaits: head west on the aptly named Glacier Highway 37A for an extraordinary drive to the communities of Stewart and Hyder, or continue north on Highway 37 through the Coast Mountains, towards the Yukon. While you decide, you can camp (June 1 - September 15), swim, water-ski, fish, and during late summer, watch spawning salmon ascend the fish ladder in scenic Meziadin Lake Provincial Park. Watch for bears!

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N K I T WA N G A A N D G I TA N Y O W Δ Admire authentic totem poles (about 11 in Kitwanga, more than 15 in Gitanyow), recounting Gitxsan history and legend. These poles inspired famous works by the renowned BC painter, Emily Carr, who visited in the late 1920s. Δ Visit Gitwangak Battle Hill National Historic Site. A trail to a steep mound, known as Ta’awdzep or Battle Hill, is all that remains of a palisade and five cedar plank longhouses that were occupied for at least 100 years. They burned down around 1835, after a tribal war over fishing sites and trade routes. Seven panels along the trail tell the story. Δ Visit the seasonally operated Gitanyow Museum.

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Stewart The border towns of Stewart (Canada’s most northerly ice-free port) and Hyder (friendliest little ghost town in Alaska) sit at the head of the Portland Canal. These communities are linked to the Stewart-Cassiar Highway by the Bear Pass, which cuts through the coastal mountain range with over 20 hanging glaciers visible from the road.

World-famous bear watching, glacier tours and breathtaking scenery make this trip a must.

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B E A R G L A C I E R - M I K E S E E H A G E L / R E G I O N A L D I S T R I C T O F K I T I M A T - S T I K I N E

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N S T E WA R T Δ Stop to photograph the Bear Glacier, located along Highway 37A. Δ Take the self-guided auto tour or arrange a tour up to the Salmon Glacier — Canada’s largest glacier accessible by road (seasonally, by 4 wheel drive). Δ Watch grizzly and black bears feed on salmon, at the viewing area located at Fish Creek, 11 km (7 mi) from Stewart, on the Alaska Panhandle.

Discover British Columbia’s

Stewart Cassiar TRA

VEL

E AT N O R T H E R N C I R C L E THE GR TOU

HWY 37

R!

Δ Visit Bear River Interpretive Centre — a non profit centre open from May to September. Δ Enjoy year-round salt water and fresh water fishing. Δ Charter a boat for a sight-seeing or fishing trip on the Portland Canal. Δ Charter a helicopter, to take in the spectacular aerial view of the water, mountains and glaciers. Δ Stroll out onto the boardwalk for a spectacular view of the Portland Canal and bird-watching. Stop at the pavilion for a picnic.

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CITY OF STEWART - GRANT HARDER

STEWART – CONTINUED…

Δ Hike on your own or with a guide on one of the many hiking trails in the Stewart area. Δ Visit the Museum, located in the 100 year old Stewart Firehall, to learn about the history of Stewart, experience the glory days of mining and find out about the many feature films that have been filmed in the area. Δ Remember your passport if you are planning on crossing into Hyder, Alaska. Δ Take the heritage walking tour to see Stewart’s heritage homes and buildings. Δ Attend Stewart / Hyder International Days held annually July 1 to 4. Events include games for all ages, parades, entertainment, fireworks, community dinner, slo-pitch tournament and much more.

Δ Attend the Bear Arts Festival held annually on the second weekend in August.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T S T E WA R T The Stewart Visitor Centre is operated seasonally by the Stewart Chamber of Commerce. Year round contact information: phone 250-636-9224 or 1-888-366-5999 or visit www.districtofstewart.com

Bell II Bell II, 96 km (60 mi) north of Meziadin, was so named because it’s the second bridge across the Bell Irving River.

Bell 2 Lodge offers four-star accommodation, a full-service restaurant, campsites for RVs and tents, as well as a gas station with coffee shop. In the winter months, Bell 2 Lodge is home to Last Frontier Heliskiing.

Tatogga Lake & Iskut Drive 148 km (92 mi) north of Bell II to reach Tatogga Lake. Visitor services here include fuel, a restaurant, resort accommodation, boat rentals, flight-seeing tours and minor car repairs. Camping is also available at nearby Kinaskan Lake. Eight km (5 mi) further, the tiny Tahltan village of Iskut includes a post office, gas station and grocery store. Both are departure points for exploration of spectacular wilderness parks: Mount Edziza and Spatsizi Plateau.

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Dease Lake About 83 km (52 mi) north of Iskut, meet the community of Dease Lake (pop. 303). This former Hudson’s Bay trading post (established in 1838) is today the centre of services for Highway 37 communities. It’s also proximate to very significant jade reserves, prompting the community to bill itself as the “Jade Capital of the World.” Visitor services include fuel, supplies, restaurants and accommodation.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N D E A S E L A K E Δ Book a guided tour (including horseback, whitewater rafting and flight-seeing!) into the awe-inspiring Stikine River Provincial Park and the Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park. Well-equipped, fit and experienced hikers can explore this challenging terrain independently. Δ Fish for grayling in the Tanzilla River, and char in Dease and Boya Lakes.

MOUNT EDZIZA PROVINCIAL PARK - TAYLOR BURK

TELEGRAPH CREEK - TIM SWANKY

Δ If you’re a well-equipped, experienced paddler, explore Dease River by kayak.

Telegraph Creek A 113 km (70 mi) gravel road from Dease Lake to Telegraph Creek passes several First Nations fishing camps, and offers sensational views of the lower Grand Canyon of the Stikine.

However, take note: its narrow, steep, sharp switchbacks make it unsuited for large RVs and vehicles with trailers.

This mostly Tahltan community, situated on two terraces above the Stikine River, is one of BC’s most remote. It was named for the overland BC / Yukon telegraph line that was constructed between 1866 and 1901, and later abandoned for wireless radio. Telegraph Creek is the hometown of celebrated First Nations carver Dempsey Bob. W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T E L E G R A P H C R E E K Δ Camp, hike, fish for salmon and steelhead, kayak and canoe the Stikine River’s navigable sections. Δ Follow the Telegraph Creek road another 19 km (12 mi) to its conclusion at Glenora, a ghost town that once hosted 5,000 gold-seekers. Δ Enjoy a place that time seems to have forgotten. Δ Visit Stikine Riversong, a former Hudson Bay Trading Post.

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More Stewart - Cassiar Gems Continuing north from Dease Lake along Highway 37 toward the BC / Yukon border, note these stops of interest: Jade City (pop. 12!), host to the new 'Jade Fever' show on the Discovery Channel offers a gift shop featuring locally mined jade jewelry, sculpture and carvings, jade mining displays plus services for travellers.

Boya Lake Provincial Park features a gorgeous, aquamarine-hued lake, with waters warm enough to swim and first-come, first-served camping.

JADE CITY - JESSICA VAN VLIET

Atlin About 94 km (58 mi) south of Jake’s Corner off the Alaska Highway, Atlin is BC’s most northwesterly community, well off the beaten track and definitely worth the trip. This region has long been home to the semi-nomadic Taku River Tlingit people. Discoveries of gold at Pine Creek in 1898 drew 10,000 gold-seekers the following year. By the time gold finds had dwindled to a trickle in 1915, many had been seduced by the compelling beauty of Atlin’s landscape — and stayed. With its long summer days (19 hours of light at summer solstice!), this community of about 400 continues to attract artists and other restless souls.

Δ See the restored MV Tarahne, an elegant touring boat that carried people and goods around the lake from 1916-1936.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N AT L I N

Δ Visit during Atlin Arts And Music Festival in July, but purchase tickets in advance.

Δ Explore and fish Atlin Lake, BC’s largest natural lake!

Guides and boats, from kayaks to houseboats, are available for hire. Δ Go flight-seeing over Llewellyn Glacier, which flows from the massive Juneau icefield into the southwest tip of Atlin Lake, and remote Atlin Provincial Park. Δ Visit the Atlin Historical Museum (May 1 to Sept. 1), in Atlin’s first schoolhouse (est. 1920). Museum volunteers offer historic walking tours of Atlin; free, but donations gratefully accepted.

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Δ Pan for gold (rent equipment at the museum), at the public claim on Spruce Creek. Δ Enjoy a production at the Globe Theatre, considered architecturally unique for 1917 when it was built. Δ Relax in the naturally warm springs off Warm Bay Road, 24 km (15 mi) from town.

Δ Hire a local guide-outfitter for fishing, hunting or packhorse trips.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T AT L I N Call the Visitor Centre at 250-651-7522, and visit www.discoveratlin.com

(RIGHT) COPPER MOUNTAIN NEAR TERRACE ON THE BC BIKE RIDE TRAIL - DAVE SILVER

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At this point …

Once you have completed your northern adventure you may wish to return to Highway 16 and continue west. You may have already decided to complete your journey along Highway 16 before making the decision to head north. No matter what your travel plans, once you continue further west from the junction of Highway 37 you will come across a number of bustling communities that are in touch with their heritage and the environment.

FOR REFERENCE, SEE THE MAP ON PAGE 48

KITSUMKALUM LAKE - GRANT HARDER

Terrace Positioned 210 km (130 mi) west of Smithers and 140 km (87 mi) east of Prince Rupert on Highway 16, Terrace is a commercial and transportation centre. Its hub status predates even the railway: decades before that was completed, Terrace was a regular stop for the steampowered sternwheelers that plied the Skeena from the coast. Its cultural history is much longer: for almost 10,000 years, Terrace and the Skeena Valley have been home to the Tsimshian First Nation.

The city’s mascot is the Kermodei bear, a rarely seen cream-coloured subspecies of black bear. Unique to BC’s north coast, the “spirit bear” is increasingly imperilled by habitat loss.

Comprehensive services await visitors to Terrace, including a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, pubs, wellness centres and spas. To really unlock this region’s adventure potential, hire a qualified guide.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T E R R A C E Δ Land one of the world-renowned salmon that draw anglers 10 months of the year. Fish the bountiful Skeena with a guide or on your own — perhaps from your campsite at the Ferry Island Municipal Campground.

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APRÈS SKI DRINKS AT SHAMES MOUNTAIN SKI AREA, TERRACE - ANDREW STRAIN

TERRACE – CONTINUED…

Δ View pioneer-era log buildings, photographic exhibits and periodic live entertainment at the Heritage Park Museum. Δ Explore George Little House. A restored home of the city’s founding father, it now hosts events and houses the Via Rail station. Δ Arrange a tour of the new Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art, and watch First Nations artists at work. Δ Visit the Terrace Art Gallery, and take the mural art tour.

Δ Ski or board Canada’s only non-profit community owned co-op ski hill, Shames Mountain, where the powder is deep and relatively cheap! Shames’ unparalleled backcountry beckons expert, self-sufficient recreationists at their own risk. Δ Visit the Skeena Valley Farmers’ Market, Saturdays May to October. Δ Attend Riverboat Days and the Riverside Music Festival in early August. Δ Golf at the 18-hole Skeena Valley Golf and Country Club. Δ Hike or cycle the Terrace Mountain trail, for great views of the city and environs. Explore other trails at Thornhill, Bornite, Maroon and Shames Mountains, Sleeping Beauty, Pine, Redsand and Gunsight Lakes. Δ Test your cycling skills at Terrace’s bike-skills park.

Hwy 16 W, Terrace, BC • 250-638-7874 • yellowcedarlodge.ca

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Δ Rock climb diverse routes and rock faces, at Copper Mountain, Exchamsiks River Provincial Park, Exstew Valley and Chist Creek. Δ Raft or kayak April through November. More than 20 first-rate whitewater runs exist near Terrace, typically graced by the majestic backdrop of deep canyons, verdant forests and the towering peaks and glaciers of the Coast Mountains. Δ Discover the Kitselas Canyon Historic Site, operated by the Kitselas First Nation. It includes an interpretive trail and four contemporary totem poles. Δ Cross-country ski Onion Lake’s 25 km (15 mi) of groomed trails (including 5 km lit). Δ Snowmobile on trails at Mount Maroon, Copper and Sterling Mountains.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TERRACE Call the Terrace Visitor Centre at 250-635-4944; Kermodei Tourism at 1-877-635-4944, 250-635-4944 or visit www.visitterrace.com

N a tu

EXSTEW FALLS NEAR TERRACE - GRANT HARDER

. e r re. Adventure. Cultu

Drop by the Visitor Centre! 4511 Keith Avenue • 1-888-635-4944 • info@VisitTerrace.com

VisitTerrace

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THE NISGA’A MUSEUM IN GREENVILLE (LAXGALTS’AP) - MIKE SEEHAGEL

Nass Valley Aam wil bakwsim / We Welcome You

The Nass Valley holds many undiscovered wonders of nature and history. Tour the 26 km (16 mi) long lava beds to the volcanic cone or experience some of the world’s best fishing on the Portland Canal near the Alaska border. Visit the stunning new Nisga’a Museum in Greenville (Laxgalts’ap) and the Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park. The park features a campground, Visitor Centre longhouse with displays of Nisga’a art including carvings, button blankets and masks and a pictorial history of the Nisga’a and the Nass Valley. At Nass Camp there is an RV campground with 16 sites with full services (electrical, water and dumping station), a restaurant and a bar.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T H E N A S S VA L L E Y Δ Visit the Nisga’a Museum (Hli Goothl Wilp Adokshl Nisga’a), featuring the Ancestors Collection (Anhooya’ahl Ga’angigatgum’) with over 300 Nisga’a cultural treasures.

This collection ranks as one of the preeminent collections of Northwest Coast indigenous art.

Come Visit Us and

Explore!

• Drive the brand new Nisga’a self-guided Auto Tour.

• Nisga’a Museum — one of the finest collections of Northwest Coast aboriginal art in existence.

• Guided tours of the lava fields, lava cone: Nass Valley Tours 250-641-4400 + Visitor Centre exhibit.

• Hlgu Isgwit, our hotsprings — water heated by nature.

• Vetter Falls Lodge — pristine wilderness experience.

• Tour K’alii-Aksim Lisims (the Nass River) and see our famous Fish Wheels: 250-633-2617

Aam wil bakwsim / We Welcome You

nisgaatourism.com

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Δ Visit Gitlakdamix (New Aiyansh) to see the totem poles at the New Aiyansh Village Government Office. Shop at the General Store for gas, snacks and mementos, or visit one of the local artist’s workshops. Tour the Government Chambers and Lisims Government Building to learn more about these self-governed people. Δ Drive into Gitwinksilkw (Canyon City) across a bridge featuring four welcoming totem poles. Also visit the swaying suspension bridge that was once the only land access to the village. Δ Explore Gingolx (Kincolith) situated at the mouth of the Nass River, on the Portland Canal — it’s known as the Seafood Capital of the Nass Valley.

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1-800-664-6554

www.kitimat.ca

www.tourismkitimat.ca

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Kitimat Kitimat, pop. 8,131, is a young city, planned and built in the 1950s by Alcan Aluminum to house employees for its smelter which has become one of the world’s largest. This industrial city offers easy access to some of BC’s most remote, pristine landscapes. Its Haisla name means “People of the Snow” — an apt descriptor, as annual snowfalls here are among Canada’s highest.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N K I T I M AT Δ World class fresh water fishing on the Kitimat River.

Salt water fishing for halibut, salmon, cod and snapper, trap for prawns, shrimp and crab in the Douglas Channel independently or with a guide. Δ Canoe or kayak the Douglas Channel. Don’t miss the Weewanie and Bishop Bay hot springs in Douglas Channel! Δ Visit the world’s largest intact coast temperate rainforest: the Kitlope Conservancy. About a two hour boat ride from Kitimat and accessible only with permission and a guide, this protected backcountry park has 800-year-old trees.

It provides critical habitat for grizzly, black bear, marbled murrelets and bald eagles. More information is available at www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/kitlope.html Δ Mountain biking: Put a new spin on exploring Kitimat and save the cost of transporting your own bike. Explore Kitimat’s network of forestry roads to see where they lead you whilst enjoying the fresh air in your lungs. The Kitimat Visitor Centre has two adult, unisex Norco midfat mountain bikes you can rent for the day. Δ Kitimat offers breath taking scenery, coastal mountains and abundant wildlife. Δ Hike! The Visitor Centre offers maps of trails from easy to advanced. Δ View Giant Spruce Park — The remains of a previously registered “largest living Sitka Spruce in BC” can be found in the park. The 500-year old tree measures 11.2 m (36.7 ft) in circumference and once stood 50.32 m (165 ft) tall.

FISHING IN GITNADOIX RIVER IN KITIMAT - MIKE SEEHAGEL

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Δ Visit the Kitimat Museum & Archives, for a fascinating display of natural history, visual arts, First Nations displays and gift shop. View local artists’ works at the Museum’s art gallery. Δ Golf at the scenic and challenging 18-hole Hirsch Creek Golf and Winter Club. Δ Family fun at the Tamitik Sports Complex and Riverlodge Recreation Centre. Facilities include 2 ice arenas, Olympic size swimming pool with a lazy river, water slide and spray park, weight room, racquetball and squash courts. Δ Check out Kitimat’s other natural treasures and public green spaces: Centennial and Hirsch Creek Parks, Hospital Beach, Moore Creeks Falls and the Coghlin Park viewpoint.

CLEARWATER LAKES - TRISTAN LEITE

Δ Check out the large aluminum snowflake!

Δ Cross-country ski and snowmobile on a wide range of trails, described in brochures found at the Visitor Centre.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T K I T I M AT Call the Visitor Centre at 1-800-664-6554, 250-632-6294, email tourism@kitimatchamber.ca and visit www.tourismkitimat.ca

SNOWMOBILE OVERLOOKING THE DOUGLAS CHANNEL - TALON GILLIS

FISHING ON THE DOUGLAS CHANNEL NEAR KITIMAT - HAYLEY NEDLAND

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KERMODE BEAR ON PRINCESS ROYAL ISLAND - CLARE LEVY

MK BAY MARINA - JILL BARROWMAN

DOUGLAS CHANNEL - HAYLEY NEDLAND

Kitamaat Village The Haisla village of Kitamaat, meaning “People of the Snow”, is about 11 km (4 mi) south of Kitimat. It’s home to about 700 Haisla people. In 1905, the Canadian government “reserved” about 7 km2 for the Haisla’s exclusive use of approximately 13,000 km2 (about 5,000 mi2) traditionally used by this wide-ranging people.

However, the Haisla remain connected to their spiritual traditions, the land, and hunting, fishing and gathering.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N K I TA M A AT V I L L A G E Δ Inquire about Kitamaat’s highly accomplished artists and sculptors and arrange a studio visit. Δ View and photograph exceptional scenery and wildlife.

Princess Royal Island Plan in advance for your visit to Princess Royal Island — one of the last refuges of the famed Kermodei bear. Experts believe there are fewer than 200 of these cream-coloured “spirit” bears left. There are no permanent settlements on this island.

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PRINCE RUPERT WATERFRONT - MARTY CLEMENS

Prince Rupert Prince Rupert is a booming little port city of about 12,500, in the heart of the North Coast’s lush rainforest.

Outstanding marine and forest-based recreation opportunities are cherished by residents and visitors alike. Sport-fishing and wildlife-viewing here are the stuff of legend. The city’s architecture, superior museum collections, community events, trendy galleries, cafés and shops lend it cosmopolitan flavour and bear colourful witness to the profound influence of nature on daily life, an enduring respect for living First Nations culture, and a time-honoured tradition of welcoming visitors from afar.

Located in the center of territory traditionally claimed by the Tsimshian First Nation, this region was one of North America’s most densely populated areas long before European explorers arrived. Initially, the British and Americans set up posts to trade sea otter pelts. Plentiful wild salmon, which have sustained the Tsimshian for over 10,000 years, drew dozens of canneries to the coast during the 1800s — along with a multi-cultural workforce. In the early 1900s, the Grand Trunk Railway selected Kaien Island as its Pacific terminus, and the City of Prince Rupert was incorporated in 1910.

Prince Rupert earned a place on the map as the world’s halibut capital, and during World War II, as the staging area for Allied troops and munitions on their way to the Aleutian Islands. In the post-war era, the city’s fortunes have N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

GAT LEEDM

MARINE PRINCE RUPERT, BC BASED

5 vessels providing marine charter services, including:

whale watching & grizzly bear tours

CONTACT CAL ROBINSON FOR BOOKINGS: 250-624-3337 | E: crobinson@metlakatla.ca A Coast Tsimshian Company

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primarily been tied to fishing and forestry.

The city has long been a regional centre for commerce and transport: it’s the Pacific terminus of Highway 16 (the Yellowhead) and Via Rail, and the meeting point of ferries from Alaska, Haida Gwaii and points south. The past few years have seen Prince Rupert experience meteoric growth as a cargo port, due to major investment and the fact of it being the shortest ocean link between North America and Asia.

The cruise ship terminal right beside quaint downtown Prince Rupert welcomes visitors from throughout the world.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N P R I N C E R U P E R T Δ Enjoy some of the world’s best sport fishing, in salt and fresh water, for all five species of salmon, halibut, a variety of rockfish, or shrimp and crab.

SALMON FISHING IN PRINCE RUPERT - ANDREW STRAIN

Δ Get a once-in-a-lifetime grizzly bear viewing experience, at Canada’s first grizzly bear sanctuary: the Khutzeymateen.

Some 50 grizzlies inhabit this remote park. Day trips depart by boat from Prince Rupert and flight seeing and sailboat based adventures are available. Book ahead!

“While the facilities are inviting, the location is beautiful, and the food and drink always delicioius, what sets the Crest apart from any other hotel in the area is its warm and friendly staff.”

–Randle P. Trip Advisor

TREAT cresthotelbc.com | 1-800-663-8150 | 222 1st Ave. W. Prince Rupert, BC 74

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Yo

SELF

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Δ Guides know the best spots! View humpback, orcas and grey whales — from your boat, kayak or with a guided tour. With luck, humpback whales will offer a fascinating display of bubble-net feeding. Eagles, seabirds, seals, sea lions and porpoises are added bonuses! Δ Book your spot on a flight-seeing tour for a bird’s-eye view of coastal fjords, glaciers and nearby communities. Δ Sample North Coast brew from the Wheelhouse Brewing Company. Δ Explore the outstanding collections of the Museum of Northern BC, housed in a magnificent, northwest coaststyle longhouse. Take a tour, and drop by its excellent gift shop for regionally made First Nations jewellery. Δ Experience Northwest Coast performance art in the museum’s adjacent longhouse. Δ Pay tribute to the mariners of Prince Rupert at Pacific Mariners’ Memorial Park. It features a statue, memorial

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KHUTZEYMATEEN GRIZZLY BEAR SANCTUARY - ANDREW STRAIN

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COW BAY HARBOUR IN PRINCE RUPERT - ANDREW STRAIN

PRINCE RUPERT – CONTINUED…

wall and the Kazu Maru — a small fishing vessel that was found drifting near Haida Gwaii in 1987. Investigation revealed that the abandoned craft came from Owase, the Japanese sister city of Prince Rupert. Its owner had taken it for a day of fishing, and was never seen again. Δ Visit the Kwinitsa Railway Museum, for a glimpse of Prince Rupert’s journey from tent town at the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway terminus, to vital city in the 1920s.

Δ Explore Prince Rupert’s history of fire-fighting and law enforcement, and view a restored 1925 REO Speedwagon fire engine, at the Firehall Museum. Δ Explore the community, searching out the many totem poles erected at public buildings and sprinkled through city parks. Δ Explore the galleries, boutiques, restaurants, cafés and shops of Cow Bay, a busy harbour and shopping district.

Visit the Ice House Gallery in the Atlin Terminal at Cow Bay, and take in a show at Prince Rupert’s state-of-theart Lester Centre of the Arts. Δ Enjoy a quiet moment in the tranquil, volunteermaintained Sunken Garden, which faces the provincial courthouse built in 1923. Δ Explore the lush coastal rainforest in nearby provincial parks, such as Prudhomme Lake and Diana Lake.

Complete exceptional, short hikes in McClymont and Moresby parks.

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Δ Enjoy interpretive trails at Butze Rapids and Grassy Bay, view dwarfed, bonsai-like trees at Oliver Lake, and stroll lovely trails within the city itself. Δ Challenge your golf skills at the 18-hole Prince Rupert Golf Course — but try not to get distracted by the gorgeous views! Δ Visit the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Port Interpretive Centre, showcasing the history of trade in the region.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PRINCE RUPERT Call the Prince Rupert Visitor Centre at 250-624-5637 or www.visitprincerupert.com

Port Edward Located at the mouth of the salmon-rich Skeena, Port Edward is home to about 544 people. For a century beginning in the 1880s, Port Edward and adjoining Inverness Passage were home to several thriving fish canneries, providing thousands of jobs to a multicultural work force of fishermen, boat builders and cannery workers.

The area’s unique history lives on at the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site, well worth the 12 km (7.45 mi) side-trip from Prince Rupert.

NORTH PACIFIC CANNERY - GRANT HARDER

NORTH PACIFIC CANNERY - MIKE SEEHAGEL

WHAT TO SEE & DO IN PORT EDWARD Δ Tour the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site, May to October, and learn about the cannery village’s multicultural past. Δ Take guided tours through working antique equipment, authentic houses, wooden boardwalks, a company store and café. Δ Overnight at one of Cassiar Cannery’s guest houses. Δ Ocean Fishing with protected marina and double boat launch provide easy access. Δ Picnic, swim and canoe at Diana Lake Provincial Park, just off Highway 16. Watch spawning salmon here August to September.

F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T P O R T E D WA R D Call the District of Port Edward at 250-628-3667, and visit www.portedward.ca N O R T H E R N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A T R AV E L G U I D E 2019

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S PECI A L FEA T UR E

BC Ferries:

The Magnificent Journey

CHATHAM SOUND - MIKE SEEHAGEL

I T ’ S O F T E N S A I D T H AT T H E J O U R N E Y I S AT L E A S T A S I M P O R TA N T A S T H E D E S T I N AT I O N. N O W H E R E I S T H I S M O R E T R U E T H A N O N B C F E R R I E S .

For British Columbians, BC Ferries is a critical link in the province’s transportation system. But for visitors and residents alike, BC Ferries voyages mean so much more: an opportunity to experience the magnificent BC coastline; to get up close to wildlife like orcas, grey whales, eagles, sea lions and porpoises; and a relaxing alternative to highway travel.

BC Ferries provides service on 25 routes throughout coastal BC, but two routes are particularly relevant to travellers in northern BC — the Inside Passage route, and the Prince RupertHaida Gwaii route.

The Inside Passage route links Prince Rupert, gateway to northern BC, to

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Port Hardy, on the northern tip of Vancouver Island. This 16-hour voyage offers more than 500 kilometres of spectacular coastal scenery; regal mountains, dramatic fjords and lush, remote islands. It all takes place onboard the Northern Expedition or the Northern Adventure, two of the most comfortable vessels in the BC Ferries fleet. Ship amenities include state rooms, excellent food services and a gift shop offering a great selection of First Nations art.

The BC Ferries route between Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii offers another memorable trip. The 173 km route offers access to one of the most pristine, culturally rich regions in the world.

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BOTH OF THESE POPULAR ROUTES REQUIRE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS. For current schedule and fare information, travel tips, directions to ferry terminals and vehicle reservations, contact BC Ferries at bcferries.com; or call 1-888-2233779 (toll-free in North America) or 250-386-3431 (from outside of North America).

FOR VACATION PACKAGES CONTACT bcferries.com/vacations, or call 1-888-BC Ferry, extension 3

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A different world just north of here.

photo: Destination BC/Grant Harder

photo: Captain Doug Davis, Prince Rupert Adventure Tours

DISCOVER BC’S NORTH COAST. Trek through lush rainforests, admire wildlife and experience the rich Indigenous culture that makes up BC’s North Coast. Our travel experts can help you plan your perfect getaway, including hotel, ferry and activities.

bcferries.com/vacations 1-888-BC FERRY Ext. 3 Visit us at 1010 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC BC Reg. 48839.

Section 3

hg

Haida Gwaii

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(LEFT) PESUTA SHIPWRECK - OWEN PERRY (BELOW) LOOKING AROUND AND BLINKING HOUSE - OWEN PERRY

“A proud indigenous culture of seafarers, food-gatherers and artists.

Dense, flourishing rainforests, wind-swept sand-dunes and endless beaches.”

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Section 3

HAIDA GWAII BRITISH COLUMBIA

(BELOW LEFT) GWAII HAANAS NATIONAL PARK RESERVE - JF BERGERON (BELOW RIGHT) SGANG GWAAY LLNAGAAY - OWEN PERRY (BOTTOM) SUNSET ON SOUTH BEACH, MASSET - GRANT HARDER (OPPOSITE PAGE) PILLAR ROCK ON GRAHAM ISLAND - GRANT HARDER

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A

GLOBALLY UNIQUE ecosystem that partially escaped the last ice age, and evokes comparisons to the equally isolated and biologically diverse Galรกpagos Islands. All this and more

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S ECTION 3: HAIDA GWAI I B C

are found on glorious Haida Gwaii, an archipelago of more than 150 islands about 120 km (74 mi) off the northern BC coast.

The two largest islands, Graham and Moresby, are home to most of its 5,000 residents. About half of these are Haida who have occupied Haida Gwaii since time immemorial — and their presence here is felt in every aspect of island life — truly making them the “islands of the people”.

Expect that your visit to the Haida Gwaii will impart a lifetime’s worth of impressions: the strength and

gentle humour of the Haida people, as present on young faces today as it is in the world-renowned art and artifacts showcased in the awardwinning Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay. The mysterious gaze of ceremonial poles over the pristine magnificence of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site — appropriately chosen as North America’s #1 Park

by National Geographic Traveller Magazine. The pervasive influence of the sea, teeming with grey, orca, and humpback whales along with salmon,

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seals, sea lions, porpoises and marine birds. The continuing allure of life off the beaten track, which continues to draw creatives to the islands from around the world. And when you leave, don’t be surprised if your visit to Haida Gwaii has left you with the sense of having touched something sacred. You have.

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S E C T I O N 3: H A I DA G W AII BC

VLADIMIR KRAJINA ECOLOGICAL RESERVE, GRAHAM ISLAND - IAN HOLMES

Sandspit Sandspit, 13 km (8 mi) from the ferry landing at Alliford Bay, is the main community on Moresby Island. Visitor services here include a hotel, RV park, bed & breakfasts, restaurants, grocery store, and a well-serviced 80-berth marina. Sandspit offers scheduled air service to Vancouver, and access to South Moresby and one of the islands’ crown jewels: Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. The protected areas are accessed only by boat or chartered aircraft. Kayakers should be very experienced and self-sufficient, or accompanied by a guide.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N S A N D S P I T Δ Take your photo at the imposing, locally crafted cedar/ copper salmon sculpture, on the road to the airport.

Δ Catch the BC Ferry to Graham Island.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SANDSPIT Drop in or call the seasonally operated Visitor Centre at the airport, at 250-637-5362 or visit www.GoHaidaGwaii.ca

Skidegate

Δ Hike the Dover Trail, to access the forests of northern Moresby Island.

Two BC Ferries dock at Skidegate Landing, linking passengers to Sandspit or Prince Rupert. Skidegate Village is 2 km (1.5 mi) from the terminal. Visitor services include restaurants, a gas bar and bank; most accommodation is available in the nearby Village of Queen Charlotte.

Δ Camp and relax on the beach at Gray Bay, 21 km (13 mi) southeast of Sandspit.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N S K I D E G AT E

Δ Enjoy fresh and saltwater fishing. Δ In spring, watch grey whales from Onward Point. Δ Golf almost all year long, at Willows Golf Course.

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Δ Gear up for your kayak or zodiac adventure with local guides.

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Δ Visit the Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay.

This celebration of Haida Culture consists of six linked longhouses, which house the Haida Gwaii Museum, Performing House, Carving Shed, Canoe House, Bill Reid Teaching Centre and a gift shop. The complex is fronted by six monumental totem poles.

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GWAII HAANAS Make your connection.

Hla gudGll sGaagid.

Faites votre connexion.

pc.gc.ca/gwaiihaanas

HAIDA NATION

S E C T I O N 3: H A I DA G W AII BC

SKIDEGATE – CONTINUED…

Δ Don't miss the Haida Heritage Centre Anniversary on August 18. Join the commemoration of the opening with a clan parade, welcome ceremony, food vendors, dance performances and competitions and Haida games. Δ Attend an orientation on Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site at the centre or take one of the several scheduled guided tours. Private tours of the centre can also be arranged.

HAIDA HERITAGE CENTRE, SKIDEGATE - GRANT HARDER

Δ View the Dogfish ceremonial pole, carved by famed Haida carver Bill Reid in the Carving Shed at the Haida Heritage Centre. Δ Walk the 3 km (2 mi) Spirit Lake Trail. Its entrance is guarded by a fabulous cedar carving of the Wasco, a legendary sea monster. Δ Marvel at Balance Rock, a huge, precariously perched ice age boulder, just north of the village. Look for signs along the highway. Δ Watch grey whales from April to June and eagles and ravens year-round as well as other bird watching.

Fishing charters and eco tours are available with local guiding companies, including from the Haida, which brings a special closeness and knowledge of the land. Δ In late July, attend Skidegate Days. This familyoriented celebration includes Haida canoe races, volleyball, bingo, a salmon barbecue and dance.

TOTEM POLE CARVING AT THE HAIDA HERITAGE CENTRE - KENT BERNADET

HAIDA HERITAGE CENTRE - GRANT HARDER

Queen Charlotte The charming Village of Queen Charlotte overlooks bays and islands, 6 km (4 mi) west of the ferry terminal. The town is quaint and charming, with good visitor amenities and an excellent Visitor Centre for advice and excursion-booking.

Marina services are available for ocean-going vessels.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T H E V I L L A G E O F QUEEN CHARLOTTE Δ Stroll along the waterfront; check out bustling docks and circling eagles. Δ Source local art and great food in funky shops and cafés.

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S ECTION 3: HAIDA GWAI I B C

Δ View art works by Haida and other locals, in the Visitor Centre’s gallery. Summer evenings feature slide presentations, performances by Haida youth dancers, and local artists painting, carving or crafting. Δ Book fishing charters to the west coast, and flights or boat trips to the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. Independent travellers to Gwaii Haanas (accessible only by air or water) must attend an orientation session with Parks Canada before entering the park reserve.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT QUEEN CHARLOTTE Drop in or call the Visitor Centre at 250-559-8316, and visit www.qcinfo.ca or www.GoHaidaGwaii.ca

Tlell

TOW HILL IN NAIKOON PROVINCIAL PARK - GRANT HARDER

Discover Tlell, 43 km (27 mi) north of Skidegate.

This pastoral community of about 200 is identified with artists, artisans and others seeking alternative lifestyles.

Several lovely bed & breakfasts, a small lodge and campsites host visitors.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N T L E L L

HAIDA HOUSE AT TLLAAL

Δ Visit the many well-marked galleries, artists’ studios and shops. Δ Walk and picnic along the Tlell River. Δ Access the southeast end of Naikoon Provincial Park, a rich preserve of rainforest, sand dunes and beaches. Δ Beachcomb! Δ Hike to the remains of the Pesuta, a log barge shipwrecked at the mouth of the Tlell River in 1928.

Naturally Wild. Culturally Alive.

HAIDA GWAII BC

Δ In August, attend the eclectic and long-running Edge of the World Music Festival in the Tlell Fall Fair Grounds, across from the Naikoon Provincial Park Headquarters.

The award-winning Haida House is located on the east coast of Graham Island, on the banks of the Tlell River. We are 100% Haida-owned, specializing in unique all-inclusive packages with a focus on Haida-led cultural excursions and locally guided back-country and adventure tours. Licenced dining room open to the public by reservation.

Δ In season, dine at the restaurant at the Haida House at Tllaal.

LEARN MORE AT HAIDAHOUSE.COM OR CALL 1.855.557.4600

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S E C T I O N 3: H A I DA G W AII BC

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N P O R T C L E M E N T S Δ Fish for salmon, steelhead and cutthroat trout. Δ Relax, camp (RV services available) and watch marvelous sunsets at Sunset Park. Observe eagles, herons, ducks, geese, cranes and more, from the birdwatching tower overlooking the Yakoun River estuary. Δ Explore the area’s logging and farming history at the Port Clements Museum.

PATH TO THE BEACH BETWEEN MASSET AND TOW HILL - GRANT HARDER

Δ Walk the short Golden Spruce Trail, and learn the intriguing and tragic story of the unusual tree for which it was named.

Port Clements

Δ Enjoy a stroll on the new accessible walking path system from the Museum to Sunset Park.

Port Clements is centrally located on Graham Island at the southeast end of Masset Inlet, half an hour’s drive from Masset and 15 minutes from Tlell. Locally known as “Port”, this old forestry town also serves as a base for exploration of the islands’ rainforest, lakes and rivers via plentiful logging roads.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PORT CLEMENTS Call the village office at 250-557-4295 or visit www.portclements.ca or www.GoHaidaGwaii.ca

HAIDA -OWNED AND OPERATED

, E M O H R U O

YEONTUURRE

ADV

Masset & OLD Massett Masset is 40 km (25 mi) north of Port Clements, near Graham Island’s north shore and just 3 km (2 mi) further northeast is Old Massett. These fishing villages are the gateway to the northern region of Naikoon Provincial Park and home to about 1,400 year-round residents, including many prominent Haida artists. Masset also hosts an airport with direct flights to Vancouver.

W H AT T O S E E & D O I N M A S S E T A N D OLD MASSETT Δ View sculptures, carvings, jewelry, pottery, textiles at galleries and studios.

Experience Haida culture, ancestral villages and the wilderness of Haida Gwaii. Explore Gwaii Haanas.

Fish the west coast.

CALL 250.637.1151 or email: info@haidastyle.com 2 Second Beach Road, Office #606, Skidegate, BC

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HAIDASTYLE.COM

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Δ Visit Delkatla Wildlife Sanctuary, a critical migratory stopover for more than 150 species of birds from as far as Alaska, Russia and the Aleutians. Δ Learn about the island’s maritime history at the Dixon Entrance Maritime Museum, in a restored heritage building which served as the communities’ first hospital (c. 1914). Δ Hike and beachcomb in Naikoon Provincial Park.

Check out the Camp Fife Trail, Rose Spit and the basalt columns of Tow Hill.

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S ECTION 3: HAIDA GWAI I B C

FISHING OFF LANGARA ISLAND - GRANT HARDER

Δ Fish for spring and coho salmon, halibut and cutthroat trout. Δ See the monumental poles located throughout the communities. The newest was raised in 2017 at the Hiellen Longhouse Village. Δ Golf at Canada’s most westerly golf course: the Dixon Entrance Golf Course, 5 km (3 mi) east of town.

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NORTH BEACH - MATTHEW MASSA

Δ Preplan your salmon and halibut fishing trip to an exclusive saltwater fishing lodge on Langara Island or in the Masset area.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MASSET AND OLD MASSETT Call the Village office at 250-626-3995 or visit www.massetbc.com or www.GoHaidaGwaii.ca

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Northern BC

travel tips

HIGHWAY 16 FROM TERRACE TO PRINCE RUPERT - GRANT HARDER

Northern BC is roughly defined as the top half of British Columbia, which is Canada’s westernmost province. Prince George is northern BC’s largest city, and sits about 750 km (465 mi) west of Edmonton, north of Vancouver and east of Prince Rupert.

Getting To & Around Northern British Columbia

BY ROAD Northern BC is accessed by three major Highways; 97, 16 and 37. Highway 16 (the “Yellowhead”) originates in Manitoba, crosses the prairies, winds through the Rocky Mountains, and continues west to BC’s north coast at Prince Rupert. It picks up again on Haida Gwaii, linking the village of Skidegate with Masset.

In Prince George, the Yellowhead intersects Highway 97, which originates at the BC / US boarder near Osoyoos and runs north through Prince George to the Yukon boarder.

From Dawson Creek north, Highway 97 is synonymous with the Alaska Highway. The Alaska Highway renames to Highway 1 in the Yukon and Alaska Route 1 in Alaska.

Highway 37, the “Stewart-Cassiar”, originates in Kitimat.

This north / south route follows Highway 16 for a brief stretch before turning north at Kitwanga. From here it continues to its terminus near Watson Lake in the Yukon.

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A Stewart-Cassiar spur, Highway 37A leads to Stewart, near the southern tip of Alaska. Hyder, Alaska is accessed this way.

BY AIR Prince George is the site of northern BC’s busiest airport, which offers frequent scheduled flights to several major cities. Smaller regional airports are also found in Fort St. John, Fort Nelson, Smithers, Terrace / Kitimat, Prince Rupert, Sandspit and Masset. Service is provided by Air Canada, WestJet, Central Mountain Air, Hawkair, Northern Thunderbird Air, Pacific Coastal Airlines, Harbour Air and many charter companies. ALL PERSONS travelling by air outside of the United States are required to present a passport book or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States.

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NORTHERN BC TRAVEL TI P S

BY RAIL Via Rail’s Skeena line roughly parallels Highway 16, and connects Prince Rupert to Jasper, Alberta. Travellers on this scenic route require overnight accommodation in Prince George, as the train stops here at night and reboards the following morning. For more information call Via Rail at 1-888-VIA-RAIL. Prince George has numerous hotels, but it is advised to pre-book.

BY SEA Prince Rupert is the southern terminus of the Alaska Marine Highway System, and a frequent stop for Vancouver- and Alaska-bound cruise ships. It’s also the terminus of BC Ferries routes up the Inside Passage from Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, and across the Hecate Strait from Haida Gwaii. For BC Ferries information, call 1-888-223-3779 toll-free in BC, or visit www.bcferries.com.

For Alaska Ferries information, call 1-800-642-0066.

ALL PERSONS travelling by land and sea outside of the United States are required to present a passport book / card, or other valid travel documents to enter or reenter the United States.

ENTERING CANADA All visitors to Canada are strongly advised to obtain or update passports. Other nationals arriving by land, sea or air must present valid passports and in some cases, visas.

For detailed, current information, consult the Canadian Border Services Agency. www.cbsa.gc.ca

L E AV I N G C A N A D A T O E N T E R O R R E-E N T E R T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S Under American law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers, including U.S. citizens, will be required to present valid passports or other documents approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, when entering or re-entering the U.S. from anywhere within the western hemisphere.

All travellers from Canada to the U.S. are strongly advised to have current passports or NEXUS cards. For current information, consult your travel agent or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

DRIVING Seatbelts are mandatory in BC. Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a criminal offence.

Speed limits and distances are posted in kilometres (km); 100 km equals about 62 miles.

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SAILING THE INSIDE PASSAGE FROM PRINCE RUPERT ON BC FERRIES - MIKE SEEHAGEL

E M E R G E N C Y I N F O R M AT I O N In larger towns in northern BC, dial 911 for immediate access to police, ambulance, fire department and other emergency personnel. Where this service doesn’t exist, dial “O” to reach an operator or consult local telephone directories.

WEAPONS Revolvers, pistols, fully automatic firearms and other weapons as well as self-defense sprays (mace, pepper spray) are prohibited from entry into Canada. Hunting rifles and shotguns must be declared at the border. For detailed information, call the Canadian Firearms Program at 1-800-731-4000.

TOWING RESTRICTIONS Any towed trailer or vehicle over 1,400 kg (3,086 lbs) must be equipped with brakes on all wheels, plus a breakaway device hooked to the trailer brake system. Three-unit RV combinations not permitted on BC highways. RVs may not be wider than 2.6 m (8.5 ft), nor may their combined length exceed 20 m (65.6 ft). Fact sheet: www.th.gov.bc.ca/ cvse and search recreational vehicle towing.

H O S P I TA L & M E D I C A L S E R V I C E S Canadians from outside of BC should contact their provincial health services provider to find out if they need to purchase additional medical insurance while travelling in BC. Foreign visitors should review their personal insurance policies to determine if they need to purchase additional health insurance before coming to BC. W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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Visitor Centre

Phone

Burns Lake Visitor Centre..................250-692-3773 Chetwynd Visitor Centre....................250-788-1943 Dawson Creek Visitor Centre.............250-782-9595 Fort Nelson Visitor Centre.................250-774-6400 Fort St James Visitor Centre...............250-996-7023 Fort St John Visitor Centre.................250-785-3033 Granisle Visitor Centre.......................250-697-2428 Houston Visitor Centre......................250-845-7640 Hudson’s Hope Visitor Centre............250-783-9154 Kitimat Visitor Centre........................250-632-6294 Mackenzie Visitor Centre...................250-997-5459 McBride Visitor Centre.......................250-569-3366 New Hazelton Visitor Centre.............250-842-6071 Prince George Visitor Centre.............250-562-3700 Prince Rupert Visitor Centre..............250-624-5637 Queen Charlotte Visitor Centre.........250-559-8316 Sandspit Visitor Centre......................250-637-5362 Smithers Visitor Centre......................250-847-5072 Stewart Visitor Centre........................250-636-9224 Taylor Visitor Centre..........................250-789-9015 Terrace Visitor Centre........................250-635-4944 Tumbler Ridge Visitor Centre............250-242-3123 Vanderhoof Visitor Centre.................250-567-3374

The Visitor Centres of Northern British Columbia Welcome You! We provide a wealth of information on the region to help visitors with their travels.

We have many useful brochures and guides waiting for you. You’ll find our Visitor Centres located conveniently throughout the province.

Watch for us, we are here for you.

Advertiser

Directory Your quick reference to all of the advertisers in this edition of the Northern BC Travel Guide.

FISHING ON TESLA LAKE - TAYLOR BURK

62 14TH ANNUAL STEWART BEAR ARTS FESTIVAL Stewart, BC - August 9-11, 2019 79 BC FERRIES VACATIONS 1010 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC TF: 1-888-BC FERRY Ext. 3 www.bcferries.com/vacations 23 BC HYDRO

W.A.C. BENNETT DAM

VISITOR CENTRE www.bchydro.com/bennett 12 COURTYARD MARRIOTT PRINCE GEORGE 900 Brunswick Street, Prince George, BC V2L 2C3 P: 250-596-6274 www.marriott.com/YXSCY 74 CREST HOTEL 222 - 1st Avenue West, Prince Rupert, BC TF: 1-800-663-8150 www.cresthotelbc.com 30 DAWSON CREEK ART GALLERY 101 - 816 Alaska Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC P: 250-782-2601 www.dcartgallery.ca 32 DISTRICT OF TAYLOR P: 250-789-9015 (Visitor Centre) P: 250-789-3392 (District Office) E: Info@districtoftaylor.com www.districtoftaylor.com 45 DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF www.vanderhoof.ca

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36 FORT NELSON HERITAGE MUSEUM Box 716, Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 P: 250-774-3536 E: info@fortnelsonmuseum.ca www.fortnelsonmuseum.ca 34 FORT ST. JOHN NORTH PEACE MUSEUM 9323 - 100 Street, Fort St. John, BC 34 FORT ST. JOHN VISITOR CENTRE 9324 - 96 Street (Inside the Pomeroy Sport Centre), Fort St. John, BC TF: 1-877-785-6037 www.fortstjohn.ca/tourism 73 GAT LEEDM MARINE Prince Rupert, BC Based P: 250-624-3337 E: crobinson@metlakatla.ca 85 GWAII HAANAS NATIONAL PARK RESERVE, NATIONAL MARINE CONSERVATION AREA RESERVE, AND HAIDA HERITAGE SITE www.pc.gc.ca/gwaiihaanas 87 HAIDA HOUSE AT TLLAAL Haida Gwaii, BC TF: 1-855-557-4600 www.haidahouse.com 88 HAIDA STYLE EXPEDITION 2 Second Beach Road, Office #606, Skidegate, BC P: 250-637-1151 E: info@haidastyle.com www.haidastyle.com

66 HIDDEN ACRE FARM & TREEHOUSE RESORT 3527 River Drive, Terrace, BC, Canada P: 250-631-2647 E: info@hiddenacrestreehouseresort.com www.hiddenacrestreehouseresort.com 53 HOUSTON DISTRICT OF HOUSTON P: 250-845-2238 www.houston.ca HOUSTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P: 1-250-845-7640 www.houstonchamber.ca 24 HUDSON’S HOPE VISITOR CENTRE Hudson’s Hope, BC P: 250-783-9154 (May - September) P: 250-783-9901 (Off Season) E: visitorinfo@hudsonshope.ca www.hudsonshope.ca 14 HUMBLE HOMESTEAD HISTORIC SITE 40 km north of Prince George just off Highway 97 on Mitchell Road P: 250-564-7033 www.hublehomestead.ca 35 INDIGENOUS ARTIST MARKET 10055 – 100th Ave, Fort St. John, BC P: 250-785-1870 E: office@neabc.ca 69 KITIMAT TF: 1-800-664-6554 www.kitimat.ca www.tourismkitimat.ca W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

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ADV E R T I S E R DI R ECTORY 39 LIARD HOTSPRINGS LODGE TF: 1-866-939-2522 www.liardhotspringslodgebc.com 11 LOVE NORTHERN BC www.lovenorthernbc.com 89 MIEDS (GO HAIDA GWAII) E: tourism@gohaidagwaii.ca www.GoHaidaGwaii.ca 96 NATIONAL CAR RENTAL TF: 1-800-227-7368 www.nationalcar.ca

Prince Rupert: 250-624-5318 Terrace: 250-635-6855 Smithers: 250-847-2216 Prince George: 250-963-7473 Williams Lake: 250-392-2976 Kamloops: 250-374-5737 Kelowna: 250-765-2800 Penticton: 250-487-3330 68 NISG _ A’A TOURISM www.nisgaatourism.com 50 NORALEE RESORT François Lake, BC P: 250-695-6399 E: bonfehr@gmail.com 16 NORTHERN LIGHTS ESTATE WINERY Prince George, BC www.northernlightswinery.ca 15 NORTHERN ROUTES www.northernroutes.ca 75 PRINCE RUPERT ADVENTURE TOURS Cow Bay, Prince Rupert, BC TF: 1-800-201-8377 www.adventuretours.net 76 PRINCE RUPERT SPECIAL EVENTS SOCIETY P: 250-624-9118 www.prspecialevents.com 12 RAMADA PLAZA Prince George, BC TF: 1-800-833-0055 www.ramadaprincegeorge.com 46 REGIONAL DISTRICT BULKLEY-NECHAKO www.visitbulkleynechako.ca

61 STEWART - CASSIAR HIGHWAY www.StewartCassiarHighway.com 51 TETACHUCK LODGE E: info@tetachucklodge.com www.tetachucklodge.com 58 THE HAZELTONS VISITOR CENTRE www.hazeltonstourism.ca 29 TOURISM DAWSON CREEK TF: 1-866-645-3022 E: info@tourismdawsoncreek.com www.tourismdawsoncreek.com DAWSON CREEK VISITOR CENTRE 900 Alaska Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC P: 250-782-9595 ALASKA HIGHWAY HOUSE 10201 – 10th Street, Dawson Creek, BC P: 250-782-4714 37 TOURISM NORTHERN ROCKIES www.tourismnorthernrockies.ca 13 TOURISM PRINCE GEORGE #101 - 1300 First Avenue, Prince George, BC TF: 1-800-668-7646 www.tourismpg.com 95 TOURISM PRINCE RUPERT www.visitprincerupert.com 57 TOURISM SMITHERS www.tourismsmithers.com 25 TREND MOUNTAIN HOTEL 375 Southgate, Tumbler Ridge, BC P: 250-242-2000 www.trendmountainhotel.com 20 TSE’KHENE FOOD & FUEL LTD. Ah’Da Road, McLeod Lake, BC V0J 2G0 P: 250-750-4687 27 TUMBLER RIDGE GLOBAL GEOPARK Tumbler Ridge, BC P: 250-242-3123 E: tourism@dtr.ca E: info@trgg.ca www.tumblerridge.ca 17 VIA RAIL www.viarail.ca

26 RIDGE ROTORS HELICOPTER SERVICE Tumbler Ridge, BC TF: 1-877-242-4211 C: 250-242-1599 E: ridgerotors@ridgerotors.com www.ridgerotors.com

67 VISIT TERRACE 4511 Keith Avenue, Terrace, BC TF: 1-888-635-4944 E: info@visitterrace.com www.visitterrace.com

28 SOUTH PEACE MILE 0 PARK SOCIETY 1901 Alaska Highway, Dawson Creek, BC P: 250-782-2590

26 WILD RIVER ADVENTURE TOURS Tumbler Ridge, BC P: 833-830-8848 E: randy@wildrivertous.ca www.wildrivertours.ca 58 WITSET INTERPRETIVE CENTER Witset, BC Located off Hwy #16 – turn at Telkwa Highroad P: 250-847-1471 or Band Office: 1-800-821-1218

(ABOVE) CANOEING NEAR PRINCE RUPERT - MIKE SEEHAGEL (LEFT) GRAPES AT NORTHERN LIGHTS ESTATE WINERY, PRINCE GEORGE - ANDREW STRAIN

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66 YELLOW CEDAR LODGE Highway 16 West, Terrace, BC P: 250-638-7874 www.yellowcedarlodge.ca W W W. N O R T H E R N B C T O U R I S M .C O M

DISCOVER British columbia’s WILD & BEAUTIFUL nOrthwest CoasT Prince Rupert is a vibrant town where nature, history, and personalities are larger than life.

Legendary sport fishing and wildlife viewing, attractions celebrating a rich aboriginal culture and pioneer heritage, and the urban pleasure of good restaurants, shops and galleries make Prince Rupert the ideal destination. En route to Alaska and Haida Gwaii, Prince Rupert is easily accessible by air, rail, ferry, car, RV or cruise ship.

VisitPrinceRupert.com

RENT THIS EXPLORE THIS

Best Rental Network in Northern BC Competitive daily, weekly and monthly rentals One way rentals and special weekend packages Insurance replacement vehicle programs Convenient locations throughout B.C. to serve you Pick up and drop off available

Prince Rupert: 250-624-5318 Terrace: 250-635-6855 Smithers: 250-847-2216 Prince George: 250-963-7473 Williams Lake: 250-392-2976 Kamloops: 250-374-5737 Kelowna: 250-765-2800 Penticton: 250-487-3330

(1-800-227-7368)

1-800-CAR-RENT

www.nationalcar.ca