August 17, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince George, Festivals & Events
View a larger image on flickr.com
If you are looking for something to do in Northern BC on sunny day, the Prince George Exhibition just celebrated its 99th annual exhibition and fair. There are midway rides open and specialized days for seniors, kids and many special events planned for the week long event! In 2011, the main events included performances by Trooper (a great rock and roll band) and several local talents on stage! Tourism Prince George Visitors Information Centers were lucky enough to have tickets to give away for more than not only the events, but also free admission coupons!
There are several sponsors and booths at the Prince George Exhibition for food, fresh lemonade and of course the mini donuts that everyone looks for at the fair! If you are interested in seeing prize livestock and bull riding, the PGX is the place for you to be - with several events and showings going on throughout the entire week of exhibitions! Prior to the event, there is submission openings for photography from all ages with themes prevailing, as well as several other competitions for you to get involved in!
The fair was a great turnout like usual and I hope that everyone can come out and celebrate the 100th annual PGX with Prince George in 2012! We will be in store for some more local entertainment and special events for next year!
August 12, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince Rupert, Accommodation
A great harbour view, comfortable rooms and free cookies!!!
The Coast Inn Prince Rupert is one of many hotels in Prince Rupert, BC. It is in a location within walking distance to several businesses, restaurants and tourist attractions. There are several different room options and the staff are very friendly! There is a restaurant on site as well as fitness facilities and room service options. The rooms are quiet and the beds are very comfortable.
For more information on this hotel in Prince Rupert, refer to the British Columbia Approved Accommodation Guide or drop in to see one of several Visitor Information Counsellors at any BC Visitors Information Center.
August 12, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Accommodation
If you find yourself in Smithers and you are looking for an accommodation, the Stork Nest Inn is a great place to stay. The Inn holds its reputation for being "serious about sleep" and closes its doors at midnight to ensure that the premises is quiet for those that are staying overnight. The Inn is located on Main Street and is within close walking distance to several local businesses and restaurants. There is also a grocery store and convenience store located close to the accommodation.
For more information on this accommodation in Smithers, please refer to the British Columbia Approved Accommodation Guide, or speak to a Visitor Information Counsellor at a BC Visitors Information Center.
August 12, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Accommodation
If you find yourself in New Hazelton and looking for an accommodation, there is a small family run business called Robbers Roost Motel. The rooms are very clean and there is room for those that are looking for longer term tenancy, or just a short stay. The prices are reasonable and I recommend the place for families or individuals. It is within close walking distance to the main area of town where there are convenience stores and restaurants, as well as the Hazelton Visitors Information Center. Hazelton is a great place to take a break from the driving and take in the incredible scenery and local attractions.
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Historic & Heritage Sites
View a larger image on flickr.com
Ksan Village is a First Nations historic village located in Hazelton, BC. The location features several longhouses that were used for traditional ceremonies and events within the First Nations community.
You may take a guided tour of the site by one of many First Nations employees and understand the way that ceremonies are run and the meanings behind many pieces of traditional regalia.
Also featured at the Ksan Village is a gift shop full of handcrafted jewelry and art from several local and Wet'suwet'en First Nations people. On the way out of the site, there is often a market set up where you can purchase many local products including delicious bannock!
I would suggest a trip to Ksan for any individuals traveling west on Highway 16 and if you are interested in learning about the traditional First Nations ceremonies and traditions.
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Terrace, Fishing
Find more information about Terrace - Fishing
View a larger image on flickr.com
The drive between Terrace and Prince Rupert, BC is one of the most scenic drives that I have taken! Several trees and wildlife was seen and whether you are taking the drive on a sunny or rainy day, it is amazing!
There is a rest stop that is not very well marked between Terrace and Prince Rupert that is a recommended place for those interested in taking a break to do some fly fishing! I visited the area as the sun was beginning to go down and it was absolutely remarkable scenery! The water was warm enough to wade in and there were several fly fishers in the area.
If you are driving west to Prince Rupert, the area is on the left hand side of the highway and is normally crowded with several cars and trucks parked on the side of the highway. If you are going to stop, ensure that you are pulled far enough off the road for yours and others safety.
Stop in at the Prince George Visitors information center for more information on this fabulous location!!
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Historic & Heritage Sites
View a larger image on flickr.com
Located in Moricetown, BC - approximately 30 kilometers west of Smithers, is another hidden BC gem! As you drive on the highway, you will come across the Bulkley River where several First Nations fisherman will be setup for the day. Above the river, you will see a small wood building, otherwise known as Moricetown Museum. This museum outlines the past and present of First Nations fishing on the Bulkley River and how the area became one of the most desirable salmon fishing locations in the area. The museum also has a section set off for the gift shop, featuring First Nations jewelery from the Wet'suwet'en nation.
There is also a campground on the same grounds as the museum that is accessible for any vehicle type.
I suggest this as a stop for all ages and travelers passing through or spending the evening in Moricetown. Admission is by donation and it is great to support such a fabulous collection of archives!
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Sightseeing Tours
View a larger image on flickr.com
Just east of Smithers, there lays a turn off point to one of British Columbia's many recreation sites, Twin Falls. The waterfalls are first accessible by driving 6 kilometers up a dirt road (can be driven by any vehicle type) and there is a parking lot located close to a viewpoint and a viewing platform. If you wish to get a closer view of the falls, the hike gets steeper, although it is very rewarding from the higher point, as water sprays mists. You either have to walk through some of the water to access a higher point, or you have to climb over a steep rock. It is very possible for those of average hiking ability to get over the rocks, but I suggest stopping at the viewing platform with those hiking with children.
In the recreation site, there are also overnight camping spots and picnic tables available for use! Contact the BC Visitors Information Centers for more information about this great feature!
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince Rupert, Dining
Find more information about Prince Rupert - Dining
View a larger image on flickr.com
One of the most upbeat places to go to if you are only spending a short period of time in Prince Rupert is the Cow Bay tourism area. Cow Bay is outfitted with picnic tables, cafes, restaurants and unique local shops.
While in Cow Bay, I visited two restaurants - Smiles and Cowpaccinos. Both are local eateries and I suggest Smiles for families and individuals that are looking to experience fresh seafood in a variety of choices! The meal portions were great and the service was friendly!
Cowpaccinos is more of a cafe feel with snacks and warm and cold drinks being served. There is wireless internet at Cowpaccinos, as well as tables on the inside and outside to access the web.
Cow Bay is a must see for visitors of all ages and from every origin of travel!
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Fishing
Find more information about Smithers - Fishing
View a larger image on flickr.com
Located approximately 30 kilometers west of Smithers, BC lays one of the most amazing shows I have seen in Northern BC.
The community known as Moricetown is home to several First Nations people and you will often be able to see them fishing in the Bulkley River using gaffs and nets to catch salmon. Watching the process is absolutely amazing and each fisherman will catch approximately 100 fish per day!
The area that is set up for fishing has been cemented in to only allow water flow coming through one main channel, where the fisherman position themselves throughout the day. In this channel, the water flows so quickly that it creates a waterfall effect and occasionally, you can even see the fish being carried down the fast flow of water!
This is a free activity to watch and it is a great way to get a glance at First Nations history in the Northwestern BC region. The fisherman are more than happy to explain the process and show you some of the daily catches! A must stop for everyone in the family!