Smithers, British Columbia

About Smithers:

Smithers is located half way between Prince Rupert and Prince George, at the base of Hudson Bay Mountain in northern British Columbia, Canada. It is a small town with a population of nearly 6,000 people. In addition to magnificent views of mountain ranges, scenic rivers, lakes and valleys, Smithers also offers year round skiing, mountain climbing, fishing, trail riding and fossil hunting. You will find here all of the modern comforts you are used to, along with the feel of being in nature.

Visit the Bulkley Valley Museum to learn about the heritage and development of the region from the early First Nations people to present day.

Activities:

Snowmobiling and mountain climbing:
Smithers is recognized for its incredible snowmobiling areas. The Big Onion is situated north of Smithers in the Babine Mountain Recreational Area. It offers the best quality snowmobiling. The Smithers Snowmobile Association maintains two propane equipped cabins on the mountain. These shelters provide you with warmth whenever needed. In addition, spectacular climbs and adventures are available for all experience levels.The annual Smithers Hillclimb is held here every March.

Fishing:
High quality fishing abounds here. Whether you choose Seymour, Babine, Ross, or Tyhee Lakes, or the Bulkley River, you will be sure to have a great time. You can fish for rainbow, dolly varden, steelhead, chinook and coho salmon. Babine Lake is highly recommended for spring fishing. Mid-May to Mid-June marks the rainbow trout and char season.

Nature Trails:
The Smithers Community Forest includes a popular interpretive nature trail that winds through a variety of ecological habitats, and the Pine Creek Cross-country Ski trails.

The Perimeter Trail:
Yes, you guessed it. The perimeter trails is a trail system that goes around the perimeter of Smithers! The trail connects Riverside Park, the Bulkley River, Chicken Creek, and Smithers Golf Course to the residential areas. This trail is widely used by locals and tourists alike. Walk, jog, bike or ski the trail.

Waterfall:
If you like waterfalls, then you need to see the immense power of Bulkley River at the Moricetown Falls. The white, cascading water combined with the carved rock of the canyon walls make for an incredible sight. If you come here during the salmon runs, which occur in July and August, you can watch the Wetsuwet'en First Nations people use traditional gaffing techniques to fish for their food. Don't miss that one!

Provincial Parks:
Both the Tyhee Lake Provincial Park and Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park are located nearby. Both of these parks are excellent for picnics, camping and simply enjoying nature. Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park has fossil beds dated to between ten and twenty million years ago - to the Eocene or Oligocene Age.

Native Heritage Site:
One of the finest native heritage sites is located in Hazelton. The 'Ksan Native Village has 7 decorated tribal houses each with elaborately carved totems poles. Situated on the banks of the Skeena and Bulkley Rivers, this site portrays the lifestyles of generations of the First Nation's People.

Smithers Accommodation