North Coast-Nechako Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of North Coast-Nechako with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, best hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to North Coast-Nechako

North Coast-Nechako, located in Northern British Columbia, is a picturesque region known for its rugged wilderness, pristine lakes, and historic cities. This region is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, best hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in North Coast-Nechako

  • Prince George
  • Terrace
  • Kitimat
  • Smithers
  • Vanderhoof

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Two Rivers Gallery in Prince George
  • Heritage Park Museum in Terrace
  • Kitimat Museum & Archives in Kitimat

Natural Attractions of North Coast-Nechako: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Drive the beautiful Yellowhead Highway
  • Bear Glacier Provincial Park
  • Bulkley River
  • Morice River

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Coast-Nechako

  • Cranbrook Hill Greenway in Prince George
  • Terrace Mountain Trail in Terrace
  • Hudson Bay Mountain in Smithers
  • Eena Lake in Vanderhoof

Best Things to Do in North Coast-Nechako: Activities and Tours

  • Visit Lava Lake in Smithers
  • Go birdwatching at Tyhee Lake Provincial Park
  • Take a salmon-fishing tour in Terrace
  • Hike the Omineca Mountains

Week-Long Itinerary for North Coast-Nechako

Day Activities Accommodation
Day 1 Arrive in Prince George, visit Two Rivers Gallery and explore downtown Prince George Inn
Day 2 Drive to Terrace, visit Heritage Park Museum and take a scenic walk around Kleanza Creek Provincial Park Coastal Inn and Suites Terrace
Day 3 Take a salmon fishing tour in Terrace Coastal Inn and Suites Terrace
Day 4 Drive to Kitimat, visit Kitimat Museum & Archives and explore Kitimat River Estuary Lil'LOoet Bed and Breakfast
Day 5 Drive to Smithers, visit Lava Lake and hike to Twin Falls Hudson Bay Lodge
Day 6 Explore the Bulkley Valley Farmers Market and go birdwatching at Tyhee Lake Provincial Park Hudson Bay Lodge
Day 7 Drive to Vanderhoof, hike the Eena Lake Trail and explore historical attractions Aurora North Star Inn

Food and Drink Scene of North Coast-Nechako

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked salmon
  • Bison burgers
  • Wild blueberries
  • Cassoulet

Local Beverages

  • Black Mac Brewing in Kitimat: Try their “Devil’s Elbow” IPA.
  • Wheelhouse Brewing Company in Prince Rupert: Try their “Scurvy Dog” spruce tip ale.
  • BC Northern Lights Estate Winery in Prince George: Try their “Northern Lights” blueberry wine.

Where to Stay in North Coast-Nechako: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Prince George Inn in Prince George
  • Coast Inn and Suites in Terrace
  • Lil’LOoet Bed and Breakfast in Kitimat
  • Hudson Bay Lodge in Smithers
  • Aurora North Star Inn in Vanderhoof

What to Buy in North Coast-Nechako: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native art and crafts
  • Local honey and maple syrup
  • Wild blueberries and salmon
  • Birch syrup

Local Culture and Customs of North Coast-Nechako

  • The First Nations culture is present in much of the region
  • It is considered impolite to not take off your shoes when entering someone’s home
  • Locals tend to be friendly and hospitable
  • The region has a rich fur-trapping history

Best Time to Visit North Coast-Nechako

The best time to visit North Coast-Nechako is during the summer months, between June and August. The days are long, the weather is warm, and the region’s wilderness is in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Coast-Nechako

Do:

  • Take off your shoes when entering a home
  • Pack warm clothes, even if it’s summer
  • Respect the wildlife

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Venturing off into the wilderness without proper gear
  • Ignore the region’s Indigenous history

Safety and Health

Safety in North Coast-Nechako

  • Be mindful of wildlife, including bears and moose
  • Be cautious when swimming in lakes and rivers
  • Wear appropriate clothing when hiking or spending time outdoors

Health in North Coast-Nechako

  • The region has several hospitals and clinics in case of emergencies
  • Bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and ticks
  • Bring any necessary medications with you

Getting to North Coast-Nechako: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • North Coast-Nechako is accessible via car or plane
  • The closest airports are Prince George Airport and Terrace-Kitimat Airport
  • Several bus services, including Greyhound and BC Transit, serve the region

Airports Near North Coast-Nechako

  • Prince George Airport
  • Terrace-Kitimat Airport

Bus Stations Near North Coast-Nechako

  • Prince George Bus Depot
  • Terrace Bus Depot

Other Options

  • Renting a car
  • Cycling through the region

How to Get Around in North Coast-Nechako

The best way to travel around North Coast-Nechako is by car or bike. Several car rental services are available in the region, and bike rentals can be found in most cities.

Where to Go Next from North Coast-Nechako: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Jasper National Park
  • Barkerville Historic Town and Park
  • Haida Gwaii

Conclusion

North Coast-Nechako is a hidden gem in British Columbia, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the region’s museums, hike through its wilderness, or just relax by a pristine lake, there’s something for everyone in North Coast-Nechako. Come and discover this beautiful part of Canada for yourself!