Fort Nelson Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Fort Nelson with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson is a scenic town located in the Peace Country and Northern Rockies region of Northern British Columbia, Canada. The town is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful place to relax, Fort Nelson has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Fort Nelson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fort Nelson is home to several museums and historical places which offer a glimpse into the town’s rich culture and history. These include:

  • Fort Nelson Heritage Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Fort Nelson and its surrounding areas. It features a wide range of exhibits, artifacts, and displays that showcase the town’s pioneering spirit, natural resources, and Indigenous cultures.

  • Northern Lights College Museum of Natural History: This museum is housed within the Northern Lights College and is dedicated to educating visitors about the natural history of the region. It features exhibits on local flora and fauna, geology, and paleontology.

  • Fort Nelson Aboriginal Interpretive Centre: This centre is focused on promoting and preserving the traditions, language, and customs of the Dene First Nation people. It offers a range of exhibits, workshops, and tours that provide insight into the cultural heritage of the region.

Natural Attractions of Fort Nelson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Fort Nelson is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its vast wilderness, rugged terrain, and spectacular natural scenery. Some of the top natural attractions of Fort Nelson include:

  • Stone Mountain Provincial Park: This park is located just outside of Fort Nelson and is characterized by its rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and lush forests. It offers hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and camping facilities.

  • Muncho Lake Provincial Park: This park is located about 200 km north of Fort Nelson and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping in this pristine wilderness area.

  • Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park: This park is located about 60 km south of Fort Nelson and is home to the second largest hot spring in Canada. Visitors can soak in the natural mineral waters, go hiking, or simply enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson offers several hiking and biking trails which allow visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the region. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Fort Nelson River Trail: This 11 km trail follows the scenic Fort Nelson River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It is suitable for both hiking and mountain biking.

  • Mount Cope Trail: This is a challenging 14 km trail that takes visitors up to the summit of Mount Cope, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Airport Trail: This 5 km trail is suitable for both hiking and biking and offers spectacular views of the town of Fort Nelson and the surrounding wilderness.

Best Things to Do in Fort Nelson: Activities and Tours

Fort Nelson offers a wide range of activities and tours that allow visitors to experience the best that the region has to offer. Some of the top things to do in Fort Nelson include:

  • Wildlife Tours: Fort Nelson is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. Visitors can take wildlife tours to see these animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviours.

  • Fishing: Fort Nelson is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of lakes and rivers offering ample opportunities for anglers.

  • Flightseeing Tours: Visitors can take scenic flightseeing tours over the rugged terrain of the region, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, glaciers, and forests.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fort Nelson

Day 1: Explore Fort Nelson Heritage Museum and Fort Nelson Aboriginal Interpretive Centre.

Day 2: Take a wildlife tour and go fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers.

Day 3: Go hiking or biking along the Fort Nelson River Trail.

Day 4: Take a flightseeing tour over the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the region.

Day 5: Enjoy a soak in the natural mineral waters of Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park.

Day 6: Explore the rugged wilderness of Stone Mountain Provincial Park.

Day 7: Relax and soak up the natural beauty of Fort Nelson at one of the local parks or beaches.

Food and Drink Scene of Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson offers a diverse and vibrant food and drink scene, with a variety of local restaurants, cafes, and breweries. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burgers: Fort Nelson is known for its delicious bison burgers, which are made from locally sourced bison meat and served with an array of toppings and condiments.

  • Wild Salmon: Fort Nelson is located near some of the best fishing grounds in the world, and its local restaurants offer a range of delicious wild salmon dishes.

  • Bannock: Bannock is a traditional Indigenous bread made from flour, water, and baking powder. It is a popular staple in Fort Nelson and is often served with toppings such as jam or honey.

Local Beverages

  • Fort Nelson Beer: The Fort Nelson Brewery is a popular local brewery that produces a range of craft beers, including its signature Fort Nelson Lager.

  • Northern Lights Coffee: Northern Lights College, located in Fort Nelson, is home to the Northern Lights Cafe which serves some of the best coffee in the region, made from locally roasted beans.

Where to Stay in Fort Nelson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fort Nelson offers a range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Fort Nelson include:

  • Woodlands Inn and Suites: This hotel is located in the heart of Fort Nelson and offers comfortable and spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and free daily breakfast.

  • Fort Nelson Hostel: This cozy and affordable hostel is located near the town center and offers private and dormitory-style rooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.

  • Tetsa River Lodge: This remote and rustic lodge is located about 150 km from Fort Nelson and offers comfortable cabins, a restaurant, and outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking.

What to Buy in Fort Nelson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fort Nelson is home to several local shops and markets that offer a range of unique souvenirs and products. Some of the top things to buy in Fort Nelson include:

  • Birch Bark Baskets: These traditional Indigenous baskets are handcrafted using locally sourced birch bark and make a beautiful and unique souvenir.

  • Handmade Soap: Fort Nelson is home to several local shops that offer handmade soaps with natural ingredients such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus.

  • Local Honey: Fort Nelson is located near several apiaries that produce some of the best honey in the region. Visitors can buy jars of local honey to take home as a delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson is a town with a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the Indigenous Dene people, fur traders, gold miners, and settlers. Visitors can learn about the local culture and customs by visiting the Fort Nelson Aboriginal Interpretive Centre, Fort Nelson Heritage Museum, and by attending local events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Fort Nelson

The best time to visit Fort Nelson depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months (June to August) offer warm and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The fall months (September to November) offer cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, making it a great time to explore the natural beauty of the region. The winter months (December to February) offer snowy landscapes and excellent skiing and snowmobiling opportunities. The spring months (March to May) offer mild temperatures and the chance to see wildlife such as caribou and moose migrating to the north.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fort Nelson

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs of the Indigenous Dene people.

  • Observe wildlife from a safe distance and do not feed or approach them.

  • Hire a knowledgeable guide for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife tours.

  • Respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in the natural environment.

  • Approach wildlife or interfere with their habitats.

  • Trespass on private property or designated wilderness areas.

  • Disrespect or disregard local laws and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson is a safe and welcoming town with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially when hiking or travelling in remote areas. It is recommended to carry a personal locator beacon and inform someone of your itinerary when travelling in the wilderness. Visitors should also be aware of wildlife and take necessary precautions such as carrying bear spray and making noise to avoid surprise encounters.

Health in Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson has a modern and well-equipped hospital that provides emergency and medical services to residents and visitors. However, visitors should take necessary precautions to prevent illness and injury, such as wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, staying hydrated, and using insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus.

Getting to Fort Nelson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson is served by the Fort Nelson Airport (YYE), which offers regular flights to and from Vancouver and other regional centres.

Bus Stations Near Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson is located on the Alaska Highway and is serviced by several regional bus lines, including Greyhound, BC Transit, and Northern Cross.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Fort Nelson by car, motorcycle, or RV using the Alaska Highway, which offers stunning views of the natural landscapes of the region.

How to Get Around in Fort Nelson

Fort Nelson is a small town, and most attractions and amenities are within walking or cycling distance. For longer distances or remote areas, visitors can rent a car, motorcycle, or RV from one of the local rental agencies.

Where to Go Next from Fort Nelson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fort Nelson is located near several other interesting destinations and excursions, including:

  • Kluane National Park and Reserve: This park is located about 200 km north of Fort Nelson and offers some of the best hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the region.

  • Dawson Creek: This town is located about 400 km south of Fort Nelson and is the starting point of the Alaska Highway. Visitors can explore the town’s history, culture, and attractions, including the Dawson Creek Art Gallery and the Alaska Highway House Museum.

  • Yellowknife: This city is located about 1,100 km north of Fort Nelson and is the capital of the Northwest Territories. Visitors can explore the city’s cultural attractions, including museums and galleries, as well as enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and kayaking.

Conclusion

Fort Nelson is a town with a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting outdoor excursion, Fort Nelson has something to offer everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery, Fort Nelson is a must-visit destination for any traveler to British Columbia.

Muskwa River Muskwa River Fort Nelson Heritage Museum located on the Alaska Highway Fort Nelson Heritage Museum located on the Alaska Highway