Larger than California, northern British Columbia is an adventure seeker’s playground.
The diverse landscape of Prince George, BC, offers up lush river valleys that carve through towering mountain ranges and pristine forests. To the west is the Pacific coast, teeming with marine life. Go east and the rich earth pops with warm hues in the prairie-like environment. Marvel at the northern lights, and learn of the rich Indigenous culture and ancient history of the traditional lands. Your list of exciting to-dos will be long. And Prince George, or PG as it’s commonly known, is the basecamp for exploring the north.
PG is the largest city in British Columbia’s northern region and is perfectly situated for exploration. The province’s longest river, the Fraser, meets the Nechako River here and with daily non-stop flights from Vancouver, and flights from Edmonton and communities across northern BC, getting to PG is easy.
Ask anyone who lives in Prince George and they’ll tell you that the warmth of the community is what stands out.
Outdoor adventure. Urban fix.
Planning your itinerary will be wildly fun. PG is a city for all seasons and will spoil you for things to do. The bowl, or valley, in which most of the city is located is surrounded by large hills with vibrant greens in the spring and summer, and dramatic yellows in the fall. The mix of urban and rural is what makes PG an appealing destination. You can enjoy the convenience of city amenities — great restaurants, art galleries, and sporting and cultural events — yet be steps away from spectacular wilderness opportunities.
PG boasts more than 100 kilometres of walking trails, including the 30-kilometre Centennial Trail, a large loop that connects neighborhoods, rivers, parks, and the University of Northern British Columbia. With 1,600 lakes, rivers, and streams within 100 kilometres of the city, the region is a paradise for paddling, boating, and fishing.
And PG embraces winter as enthusiastically as it does summer. Visitors can explore the many cross-country ski trails or go deeper into the backcountry on a snowmobile. You’ll have stories to share about ice fishing adventures. And in the city, enjoy the outdoor skating oval.
The spirit of community
Ask anyone who lives in Prince George and they’ll tell you that the warmth of the community is what stands out. You can join the locals throughout the year, as the downtown is filled with good vibes and fun with a variety of festivals and celebrations.
The Indigenous peoples of the Lheidli T’enneh, meaning where two rivers flow, have known the beauty of PG and the surrounding region for thousands of years. The secret’s out. PG is waiting for you.
Six Things to Do in (and around) Prince George
Go fish
With an abundance of water around, there’s no shortage of places to fish. Expert angler or new to fishing, a local guide can take you to lesser-known lakes and streams, where you’ll be able to boast about your own fish story.
Taste local
You’ll be drawn in by the smell of freshly-roasted coffee, but you’ll delight in local delicacies at the year-round farmers’ market. Sample jellies and jams, and spices crafted by local artisans. During the summer months, you can also wander through the Wilson Square market.
Head to the party
Check the community events calendar, because chances are there’ll be a festival, seasonal celebration, street market, or outdoor concert in the downtown area. And everyone’s welcome.
Come hungry
There’s been an explosion of flavours in the Prince George food scene in recent years. You won’t be starving for choices. Some eateries are inspired by the finest local ingredients, while others will wow you with their creative dishes.
Travel the Ale trail
Your tour of Northern BC’s craft beers starts in Prince George. Here, you can sample exquisite beers from three local breweries. Then taste your way across the region at 12 other craft breweries. And if wine is more your thing, then head to Northern Lights Estate Winery, the northern-most fruit winery in the province.
Explore ancient cultures
The ancient ways aren’t far away. For thousands of years Indigenous peoples have lived in the region. Enrich your visit by stopping at one of the many Indigenous communities and lands, such as the Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park/Ancient Forest, which stands on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. The land has strong ties to the First Nations, where you can learn more about their history, culture, and art.
