New Hazelton Travel Guide

Explore the culturally-rich and scenic town of New Hazelton in Northern British Columbia, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover its natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, food scene, and more.


Introduction to New Hazelton

Located in the scenic region of North Coast-Nechako in Northern British Columbia, Canada, New Hazelton is a culturally rich and scenic town situated on the beautiful Skeena River. It is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to experience the vibrant local culture and customs.

List of Places to Visit in New Hazelton

There are numerous places to visit in New Hazelton. Here are a few highlights:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ksan Historical Village and Museum: This is a must-visit attraction for those interested in learning about the rich history and culture of the Gitxsan First Nations people. The village consists of several traditional longhouses, totem poles, and a museum with artifacts and artwork.

  • Hazelton District Public Library: This public library has a local history section that provides visitors with a good understanding of the area’s history. The library also hosts regular events and exhibitions.

  • Skeena Salmon Art Festival: A popular cultural event that features the works of local artists and celebrates the region’s salmon fishing heritage.

Natural Attractions of New Hazelton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Roche De Boule Mountain: An ideal spot for hiking and taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding area. The mountain is 1162 meters above sea level and offers trails of varying difficulty levels.

  • Kispiox River: A beautiful and serene river located just a few kilometers from New Hazelton. It is ideal for fishing, swimming, and tubing.

  • Moricetown Canyon: This is a popular spot for whitewater rafting and kayaking. It is located approximately 20 kilometers from New Hazelton and has beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Hazelton

New Hazelton has numerous hiking and biking trails of varying difficulty levels. Here are a few worth checking out:

  • Roche De Boule Mountain Trail: A popular hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the region. It is approximately 6.5 kilometers long and takes about 4-6 hours to complete.

  • K’san Historical Village Trail: It is a 2.4-kilometer trail that starts at the Visitor’s Center and leads to the K’san Historical Village.

  • Kispiox Valley Trail: This is a 24-kilometer trail that is ideal for mountain biking. It passes through some beautiful countryside scenery and provides bikers with a good workout.

Best Things to Do in New Hazelton: Activities and Tours

New Hazelton offers visitors numerous activities and tours. Here are a few worth considering:

  • Whitewater Rafting in Moricetown Canyon: This is a thrilling adventure that offers an opportunity to raft through some exciting rapids along the Bulkley and Skeena Rivers.

  • Fishing in the Area Rivers: New Hazelton is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Some of the popular fishing spots include the Bulkley River, Kispiox River, and Babine River.

  • Horseback Riding: Visitors can explore the beautiful countryside on horseback with one of the local outfitters.

Week-Long Itinerary for New Hazelton

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to New Hazelton:

Day 1: Arrive in New Hazelton and explore the town by foot or bike.

Day 2: Visit the Ksan Historical Village and Museum and gain an appreciation for the region’s history and culture.

Day 3: Take a guided whitewater rafting tour of the Moricetown Canyon.

Day 4: Spend the day hiking or biking the Roche De Boule Mountain Trail.

Day 5: Go fishing in one of the nearby rivers, such as the Bulkley River or Kispiox River.

Day 6: Visit the Hazelton District Public Library and attend one of their regular events or exhibitions.

Day 7: Explore the local food scene and try some of the must-try dishes of New Hazelton.

Food and Drink Scene of New Hazelton

New Hazelton offers several restaurants and cafes that serve up local and international cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: A delicious burger made with locally raised bison meat.

  • Pacific Salmon: Freshly caught salmon that can be served grilled, smoked, or baked.

  • Nanaimo Bars: A classic Canadian dessert that consists of a custard filling sandwiched between two layers of chocolate and buttercream.

Local Beverages

  • BC Craft Beer: British Columbia is known for its craft beer scene, and New Hazelton has a few local breweries that serve up delicious brews.

  • Ice Wine: A dessert wine that is made from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. It is a sweet and refreshing way to end a meal.

Where to Stay in New Hazelton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

New Hazelton has several accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular options:

  • Ksan Campground and RV Park: This is a popular spot for campers and RV enthusiasts. The campground is located near the Ksan Historical Village and Museum.

  • Canyon Wren Bed and Breakfast: A cozy bed and breakfast that offers picturesque views of the Moricetown Canyon.

  • Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge: A luxurious hotel located on the banks of the Skeena River.

What to Buy in New Hazelton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

New Hazelton is known for its local arts and crafts scene. Some of the popular items to purchase include:

  • Gitxsan Artwork: Traditional artwork that consists of carvings, jewelry, paintings, and textiles.

  • Local Honey: Honey produced by the local beekeepers is a delicious and healthy treat.

  • Maple Syrup: A classic Canadian product that is a great souvenir for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of New Hazelton

New Hazelton is home to the Gitxsan First Nations people, who have a rich and vibrant culture. Visitors are encouraged to learn about their customs and traditions and respectfully engage with them.

Best Time to Visit New Hazelton

The best time to visit New Hazelton is between the months of May and October. The weather is mild during these months, and many outdoor activities are available.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Hazelton

Do:

  • Respect the local First Nations people and their customs.

  • Dress appropriately for the weather and the activities you plan to do.

  • Try the local cuisine and traditional dishes.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of the Gitxsan First Nations people or their cultural artifacts without permission.

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Ignore safety precautions when taking part in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in New Hazelton

New Hazelton is a generally safe destination, but visitors should take precautions when taking part in outdoor activities. It is essential to be aware of potential wildlife encounters and possible natural hazards.

Health in New Hazelton

Visitors should bring any necessary prescription medications and be prepared for any potential minor injuries that may occur while participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to New Hazelton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near New Hazelton

The Smithers Regional Airport is the nearest airport to New Hazelton, situated around 60 kilometers away from the town.

Bus Stations Near New Hazelton

BC Transit operates a bus service that connects New Hazelton to other nearby towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to New Hazelton. Highway 16, also known as the Yellowhead Highway, runs through the town.

How to Get Around in New Hazelton

New Hazelton is a small town, and most places can be easily reached by foot or bike. There are also bike rental and car hire options available in the town.

Where to Go Next from New Hazelton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

New Hazelton is a great starting point for exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of British Columbia. Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Smithers: A beautiful town located just 60 kilometers east of New Hazelton. It is known for its ski resorts and outdoor activities.

  • Haida Gwaii: A remote archipelago located off the coast of British Columbia that is known for its unique wildlife, ancient culture, and pristine natural beauty.

  • Prince George: A city located approximately 300 kilometers south of New Hazelton. It is known for its cultural attractions and Northern Lights.

Conclusion

New Hazelton is a charming and culturally-rich destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Northern British Columbia. From hiking and biking to trying the local cuisine and shopping for traditional artwork, there is something for everyone in this wonderful town.

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