Northern British Columbia Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Northern British Columbia with this comprehensive tour guide, featuring top attractions, activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia is a region located in the northernmost part of British Columbia, Canada. It is a vast area that covers almost two-thirds of the province. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged wilderness, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to a rich Indigenous culture and has a fascinating history that dates back centuries.

List of Places to Visit in Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia is home to several must-visit destinations that offer unique experiences. Here’s a list of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site - This historic site in Prince Rupert was once a bustling cannery and is now a museum that showcases the history of the fishing industry in the region.
  • Ksan Historical Village - This reconstructed traditional village is a great place to learn about the local Indigenous culture and history.
  • Nisga’a Museum - Located in the Nass Valley, this museum showcases the art and culture of the Nisga’a people.

Natural Attractions of Northern British Columbia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bear Glacier Provincial Park - This park is known for its stunning glacier views and offers great hiking opportunities.
  • Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark - This geopark is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a unique geological landscape with scenic trails, waterfalls, and fossils.
  • Skeena River - This river is known for its incredible salmon runs and is a popular spot for fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia offers a vast network of hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. Here’s a list of some of the best routes:

  • Babine Mountains Provincial Park - This park offers several hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Kleanza Creek Provincial Park - This park has several hiking trails that take you through lush rainforests, over suspension bridges, and along pristine creeks.
  • Burns Lake Bike Park - This mountain bike park offers several trails that cater to different skill levels, from beginner to expert.

Best Things to Do in Northern British Columbia: Activities and Tours

Northern British Columbia offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here’s a list of some of the best things to do:

  • Wildlife Tours - Northern British Columbia is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, and caribou. Join a wildlife tour to see these animals in their natural habitat.
  • Hot Springs Tours - There are several hot springs in the region that are popular for their therapeutic properties and stunning views. Join a hot springs tour to soak in the warm waters and relax.
  • Fishing Tours - Northern British Columbia is known for its incredible fishing opportunities, with several rivers and lakes that are home to salmon, trout, and other fish species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern British Columbia

Here’s a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best attractions and activities in Northern British Columbia:

  • Day 1-2: Prince Rupert - Visit the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site, explore the Cow Bay district for shopping and dining, and take a whale watching tour.
  • Day 3-4: Terrace - Visit the Skeena River, explore the Ksan Historical Village, and take a scenic hike in the Kitimat Ranges.
  • Day 5-6: Smithers - Visit the Twin Falls Recreation Site, go on a wildlife tour, and explore the Hudson Bay Mountain.
  • Day 7: Prince George - Visit the Ancient Forest Trail and take a hot springs tour at some of the local hot springs in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia has a diverse food and drink scene that offers something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bannock - This Indigenous bread is a staple of Northern British Columbia cuisine and is often served with stew or soup.
  • Salmon - Northern British Columbia is known for its salmon runs and offers some of the freshest and most delicious salmon dishes.
  • Wild Berries - The region is home to several wild berries, including blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries, which are often used in desserts and jams.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer - Northern British Columbia has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries that offer unique and delicious beers.
  • Ice Wine - This sweet dessert wine is made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine and is a specialty of the region.
  • Coffee - Several coffee shops in the area offer locally roasted coffee beans and unique blends.

Where to Stay in Northern British Columbia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern British Columbia has several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommended options:

  • The Northern Grand Hotel (Prince George) - This upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant and lounge, and a fitness center.
  • The Bear’s Den Lodge (Smithers) - This cozy guesthouse is a great option for budget travelers and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • HI Prince Rupert, Pioneer Hostel (Prince Rupert) - This charming hostel is located in a historic building and offers comfortable dorms and private rooms at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Northern British Columbia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Northern British Columbia has several unique and locally made products that make great souvenirs. Here are some recommendations:

  • First Nations Art - Indigenous art is a significant part of Northern British Columbia’s culture, and several galleries and shops offer beautiful and authentic pieces.
  • Wild Berry Jams and Preserves - Several local producers offer delicious jams and preserves made from wild berries.
  • Wildflower Honey - Northern British Columbia is home to several beekeepers that offer delicious and pure honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia has a rich Indigenous culture that has been preserved over centuries. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the local culture and customs and respect them. Here are some helpful tips:

  • Do not touch or remove Indigenous artifacts or objects.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of Indigenous people or their property.
  • Show respect for Indigenous ceremonies and events.

Best Time to Visit Northern British Columbia

The best time to visit Northern British Columbia depends on the activities and experiences you’re interested in. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing, the summer months (June to September) are the best time to visit. The fall months (September to November) offer stunning foliage views, and the winter months (December to February) offer opportunities for winter sports and activities, such as skiing and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern British Columbia

Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Northern British Columbia:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Be prepared for outdoor adventures and bring appropriate gear and clothing.
  • Ask for directions or recommendations from locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Approach or disturb wildlife.
  • Leave valuables in plain sight in your car.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia is generally a safe region to visit, but visitors should still take precautions and be aware of their surroundings. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas.
  • Be cautious when driving on rural roads, especially during winter months.
  • Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before embarking on outdoor activities.

Health in Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia has modern healthcare facilities that offer quality healthcare services. However, visitors should still take precautions and keep the following tips in mind:

  • Bring any necessary prescription medications with you.
  • Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Bring insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Northern British Columbia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northern British Columbia is an expansive region that is well-connected by different means of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Northern British Columbia

  • Prince George Airport (YXS) - This airport is located in Prince George and offers several direct flights from major Canadian cities.
  • Terrace-Kitimat Airport (YXT) - This airport is located in Terrace and offers several direct flights from major Canadian cities.
  • Smithers Regional Airport (YYD) - This airport is located in Smithers and offers several direct flights from major Canadian cities.

Bus Stations Near Northern British Columbia

  • BC Bus North - This regional bus service operates several routes that connect Northern British Columbia with major Canadian cities, such as Vancouver and Edmonton.

Other Options

  • Renting a Car - Several car rental agencies operate in Northern British Columbia, and renting a car allows visitors to explore the region at their own pace.
  • Taking the train - VIA Rail Canada operates a train service that connects Prince Rupert with Prince George and other Canadian cities.

How to Get Around in Northern British Columbia

Northern British Columbia is a vast region that offers several transportation options for getting around. Here are some options:

  • Driving - Renting a car or driving your vehicle allows for maximum flexibility and the ability to explore the region at your own pace.
  • Flying - Northern British Columbia has several airports that offer flights to different parts of the region.
  • Taking the train or bus - VIA Rail Canada and BC Bus North operate train and bus services that connect different parts of the region.

Where to Go Next from Northern British Columbia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northern British Columbia is a great base for exploring other destinations in Canada and Alaska. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Alaska Cruise - Several cruise lines operate from Prince Rupert and offer Alaskan cruises that explore the Inside Passage and other scenic areas.
  • Barkerville Historic Town & Park - This historic town located in central British Columbia offers a glimpse into the gold rush era of the late 1800s.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park - This national park is located in Alberta, Canada, and offers stunning mountain views and hiking opportunities.

Conclusion

Northern British Columbia is a unique and breathtaking region that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and scenic views to cultural experiences and authentic cuisine. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your perfect trip and explore all that this incredible region has to offer.

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