PRINCE GEORGE
Prince George is part of the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh Nation, a nation which encompasses over 4.3 million hectares of north-central British Columbia. As the portal to the north and the largest city in Northern BC (population of 74,000), Prince George situated at the crossroads of Highway 97 and Highway 16 and at the confluence of the mighty Fraser and Nechako rivers.
Set in nature, Prince George features a locals-favourite hiking spot known as the Cutbanks, which provide a quick, yet challenging climb with views at the summit that overlook part of the downtown area as well as the Nechako river. On the climb up keep an eye out for caves formed thousands of years ago.
Spend a day exploring the history of the first peoples by visiting Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, home to the original Lheidli T’enneh village site and the permanent museum exhibit within the Exploration Place Museum & Science Centre. And be sure to visit Mr. PG at the junction of Highway 16 and 97. At 8.14 metres tall, this community icon is identified as one of the largest roadside attractions in Canada.
The Ancient Forest/Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park, located 113km east of Prince George, is a must-see. Chun T’oh Whudujut means “a large area of growth, over a big amount of time” and is significant because it is the only inland temperate rainforest in the world. Hiking through the trails will take you past thousand-year-old western red cedars and rich biodiversity of plants, mosses, lichens and fungi. This park also features a 450 metre universal access boardwalk and picnic shelter.
Connaught Hill is another ‘must see’ geographical landmark located in the downtown and etched out by glaciers from years gone by. Bring a picnic and your camera to enjoy the spectacular 360-degree view of Prince George that this park has to offer.
Experience the rural urbanity Prince George has to offer. As a city that flourishes in nature, start your day out with a hike, bike or ski and finish up with an après bite.
The downtown area features many types of cuisines, including two local breweries and one winery. Plus, any amount of cozy cafes to tuck into. Treat yourself to the culinary delights of local restaurants and take in a movie at the Park Drive In Theatre or try your expertise in an escape room at Exit PG.
Prince George is home to BC’s northernmost fruit winery, the Northern Lights Estate Winery, which offers orchard tours, wine tasting, and a bistro. The two local breweries, Crossroads Brewing and Distillery and Trench Brewing and Distilling, offer beer flights, a full menu, and tours.
Prince George is also home to a craft ice cream shop, Frozen Paddle which features local ingredients to craft unique flavours. Order by the pint or by the scoop, and find the ice cream truck “Olaf’ around town. The Makerie Craft & Coffee Bar is a unique mash up of assembling a craft while sipping on artisan coffee or tea. You’ll leave with a project to treasure.
Get outside and choose from one of 66 parks located in the city, there is a challenge for every skill level. Some parks are paved and are great for bike rides while others have hidden gems like tree bark carvings in Cottonwood Island Park. Stop at the Central BC Railway & Forestry Museum located beside Cottonwood Island Park and take a ride on the mini train. If you’re looking for something a little more daring, hit the mountain bike trails at Pidherny Recreation Site. All levels of trails exist, including a flow rider adaptive trail for hand cycles and a pump track.
During winter months, Otway Nordic Ski Centre is a top-notch cross country ski and snowshoe facility boasting night skiing and dog trails. Otway’s’ trails range from easy to difficult and rentals are located on site.
For a slower pace, visit Huble Homestead Historic Site located 40km north of Prince George to learn about homesteading and the fur trade. Or take a stroll through Two Rivers Gallery located in the heart of downtown to view contemporary Canadian art and creativity.