Fort St. John Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, and local culture to experience in Fort St. John, British Columbia, Canada.


Introduction to Fort St. John

Fort St. John, located in Peace Country and Northern Rockies, in Northern British Columbia, Canada, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known as the “Energetic City”, this Canadian city is named after the historic fur trading post Fort St. John. The city has plenty of natural wonders, rich history, and a unique culture to offer to its visitors. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or a thrilling adventure, Fort St. John has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Fort St. John

Here’s a list of top attractions to add to your visit to Fort St. John:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort St. John North Peace Museum: This museum showcases the region’s history with an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits relating to the First Nations People, Pioneers, and the fur trade.
  • St. John’s Anglican Church: A significant landmark in Fort St. John, this church was built in 1958 and has an impressive architecture and design.
  • Charlie Lake Provincial Park: This park has a unique history and importance to First Nation’s People. The park features trails, picnic areas, a playground, and a beach.

Natural Attractions of Fort St. John: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Beatton Provincial Park: A popular spot for all nature lovers, Beatton Provincial Park offers year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.
  • Fish Creek Community Forest: This protected area is home to trails, wildlife, and natural habitat around Fish Creek.
  • Alaska Highway: A perfect drive to experience scenic views, this highway is connected to Fort St. John and stretches over 1,000 miles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fort St. John

Fort St. John has some of the most magnificent scenic views and outdoor activities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular trails:

  • Beatton Provincial Park: Offers well-marked trails for hiking and biking for all skill levels.
  • Fish Creek Community Forest: A beautiful forest with many trails, including the popular 10-kilometer long Portage Mountain Loop Trail.
  • Blue 68 Trail: This trail is an excellent option for mountain bikers with challenging uphill sections and technical descents.

Best Things to Do in Fort St. John: Activities and Tours

Fort St. John offers many exciting activities and tours for families and solo travelers. Here are some of the options:

  • Paddleboarding at Willowview Farms: Paddleboarding among the peaceful surroundings of Willowview Farms is an excellent way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
  • Spectra Energy Centre: This popular recreational center hosts various events throughout the year, including top-rated concerts and sports events.
  • Horseback Riding at Coyote Acres: Experience the nature around Fort St. John the old-fashioned way by horseback riding at Coyote Acres.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fort St. John

Here’s an itinerary to experience the vibrant and hidden gems of Fort St. John in a week:

Day Activity
1 Visit Fort St. John North Peace Museum and St. John’s Anglican Church
2 Explore Fish Creek Community Forest and hike to the Portage Mountain Loop Trail
3 Enjoy paddleboarding at Willowview Farms and witness sunset at Blue 68 Trail
4 Take a day trip to Alaska Highway, experience scenic views and learn about its history
5 Visit Charlie Lake Provincial Park and camp overnight
6 Join a horseback riding tour at Coyote Acres and picnic at Beatton Provincial Park
7 Attend a concert or watch sports events at Spectra Energy Centre

Food and Drink Scene of Fort St. John

Fort St. John offers various dining options highlighting the local produce, delicious cuisine, and authentic Canadian flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Whistlestop Cafe: A popular spot for breakfast since 1977. Try their famous “Whistlestop Hotcake” and homemade sausages.
  • Mr. Mikes SteakhouseCasual: Enjoy signature steaks, burgers, and cocktails and the relaxing patio.
  • Whole Wheat and Honey Cafe: Serving organic and healthy cuisine, this cafe is perfect for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Local Beverages

  • Mighty Peace Brewing Co. This veteran-owned brewery offers high-quality local beers and has a beautiful taproom experience.
  • Backcountry Brewing and Distilling: Try their unique locally distilled gin and whiskey and enjoy their delicious food menu.

Where to Stay in Fort St. John: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fort St. John has plenty of options ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Stonebridge Hotel: A luxurious hotel with premium amenities, including an indoor pool, hot tub and fitness center.
  • Northern Grand Hotel: A modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Fort St. John.
  • The Pomeroy Hotel & Conference Centre: Featuring comfortable guest rooms, high-end facilities, and numerous property amenities.

What to Buy in Fort St. John: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fort St. John has unique local products that you can buy as souvenirs or take back home as a gift for friends and family. Here are some of the best options:

  • Fur Products: Take home locally made fur products such as boots, mitts, scarves, and hats.
  • Birch Bark Canoes: This handmade traditional canoe is a unique souvenir to bring back home.
  • Native Art: Showcase the local culture with beautiful First Nation’s art, including sculptures, paintings, and woven baskets.

Local Culture and Customs of Fort St. John

Fort St. John has a unique culture that can be seen in the local festivals and traditions. Some of the popular events and activities include:

  • The Lido Theatre: A historical theatre located in downtown Fort St. John, presenting movies and live events.
  • Blueberry Festival: A popular summer event that includes live music, games, food, and blueberry-themed activities.
  • Farmer’s Market: Experience the local produce, crafts, and food at the weekly Farmer’s Market during summers.

Best Time to Visit Fort St. John

The best time to visit Fort St. John is from June to August when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping. The winter months from December to February offer great winter activities such as ice-fishing, snowmobiling, and skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fort St. John

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and First Nation’s culture.
  • Take advantage of the natural wonders and outdoor activities Fort St. John has to offer.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural parks and reserves.
  • Ignore the dress code while visiting religious places.
  • Smoke or consume cannabis in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fort St. John

Fort St. John is a safe city. However, it’s always best to take precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding shady alleys, and keeping your valuables safe.

Health in Fort St. John

Fort St. John has adequate health care facilities to take care of any medical concerns. It’s always best to carry your medications and prescriptions along.

Getting to Fort St. John: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fort St. John

  • Fort St. John Airport: Located about five kilometers northwest of downtown Fort St. John, the airport offers connections to major cities in Canada.

Bus Stations Near Fort St. John

  • Greyhound Bus: The bus service connects Fort St. John to other cities in British Columbia and Alberta.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Numerous car rental services are available for transportation in Fort St. John.
  • Taxi: Taxis are also available for moderate transportation requirements.

How to Get Around Fort St. John

Fort St. John is quite a small city and is easy to navigate around. Public transit is limited, and it’s best to have a car rental to move around freely.

Where to Go Next from Fort St. John: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dawson Creek: Another city located along the popular Alaska Highway, Dawson Creek is famous for its art galleries, museums, and annual festivals.
  • Charlie Lake: A small, peaceful community situated on the eastern shore of Charlie Lake. It’s a perfect place for fishing, swimming, and boating.
  • Hudson’s Hope: A town rich in history and culture, Hudson’s Hope is home to the famous W.A.C Bennett Dam and the Peace Canyon Dam.

Conclusion

Fort St. John offers visitors a unique and memorable experience with its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting activities. Whether it’s a relaxing vacation or a thrilling adventure, Fort St. John has something for every type of traveler. Plan your visit, explore the hidden gems, and take back unforgettable memories.

Downtown Fort St. John Downtown Fort St. John