Northern BC’s pristine wilderness is captured in its gardens and city parks. Towering Sitka spruces and Douglas firs, scenic ocean views and high mountaintops provide the backdrop for the region’s sprawling grassy lawns and colourful flower beds.
Many parks and gardens in Northern BC are not only filled with lush flowers and foliage - they feature attractions and activities suitable for all ages.
Hold bugs and critters at Exploration Place in Fort George Park in Prince George; see the Mile Zero Cairn of the famous Alaska Highway at the Northern Alberta Park in Dawson Creek; or view a Japanese fishing boat that drifted across the Pacific Ocean at the Mariner’s Park in Prince Rupert.
Gardens
Enjoy a rest from sight-seeing at the Sunken Gardens in Prince Rupert. The gardens contain rows of terraced rock-beds filled with flowers and plants, as well as a landscaped grassy lawn. Stroll along the pathway to the top level of the garden and explore the nearby carving shed to see Aboriginal carvers at work. The “Old Church Gardens” in Smithers has no official name but is a well-known local garden retreat. Located on the grounds of a restored 1913 Anglican Church, the gardens burst with colour and fragrance and wooden benches invite visitors to sit and relax. Participate in a self-guided Culture Crawl (summer months only) to see the gardens as well as other historic sites in Smithers.
Memorial Parks
Watch cruise ships dock into harbour at the Pacific Mariner’s Memorial Park in Prince Rupert. Take in views of the Pacific Ocean and read the engraved memorial brick wall inscribed with the names and dates of those who lost their lives at sea. The “Kazu Maru” – a restored fishing boat that drifted across the Pacific Ocean from Japan - is now housed in a Shinto shrine in the park.
Recreational Parks
Everyone can find something of interest at Fort George Park in Prince George. Kids will love the water spray park and the playground. Follow a series of riverside trails. Exploration Place – a science centre and museum – offers hands-on experiences including holding bugs and insects at the Explorations Gallery and donning a steamboat captain’s costume circa the 1900s in the Children’s Gallery. Centennial Park in Fort St. John boasts of a variety of activities: wander through the park on a paved walkway, smell the flowers of the Memorial Rose Garden and see a metal grizzly bear sculpture. Other amenities include a skateboard park, beach volleyball court and a pool.
Historical Parks
The Mile Zero Park in Dawson Creek also contains historical highlights. Explore the Walter Wright Pioneer Village, see heritage buildings (including a blacksmith shop and old church), antique vehicles and farm machinery. Don’t miss Gardens North – eleven themed gardens that include a memorial rose garden and feature a wide range of shrubs, trees, perennials and annuals in a spectacular array of colour.
Parks with a View
Looking for a park with a view? Connaught Hill Park in Prince George features an impressive 360 degree panoramic view of the city. Walk amongst burgeoning floral displays, shrubs and trees or picnic on the well-manicured lawn. Forests for the World in Prince George offers several lookouts that are accessed by a 15-km/9-mi network of trails. See moose or bears from the wildlife viewing platform. The man-made Shane Lake is well-stocked with trout and encourages family fishing; borrow a fishing rod from the Visitor Centre and try a hand at catching dinner.