The area surrounding Houston is certainly worth a day trip by car. Check out the many unique viewpoints, stunning lakes – perfect for a picnic, swim or quick fish – and local wildlife such as moose and bears. Houston boasts three popular circle routes, each which take less than a day to complete, unless visitors choose to spend the night at one of the many resorts or camping spots in the area.
Morice River Route
The shortest circle route, which requires only a half-day in a vehicle, first heads to the Morice River, world famous for Steelhead fishing. Visitors are encouraged to picnic along the river or dip their fishing pole in the water and try their luck. They can also take a stroll around the Buck Falls Walking Trails or through the Houston Community Forest, which are flat and loop through old pine forest around a couple lakes. This route circles back to Houston through nearby logging roads.
Surrounding Communities Route
Another circle route, which takes about a day to complete, heads west along Hwy 16 towards Smithers. The tour takes visitors to several small quaint communities in the area such as Telkwa, Topley, and Perow. It also passes by many lakes, where visitors can stop to take a photo, have a picnic or go for a swim. The drive heads through agricultural areas with authentic red farm houses and barns – great for photographs. It also offers stunning views of surrounding mountains.
Francois Lake Loop
The second day-long circle route, the Francois Lake Loop, heads in the opposite direction. It takes visitors through the back roads south of Houston towards Francois Lake, one of BC's largest natural freshwater lakes. The peaceful scenery of huge farmlands and calm waters along the way is enchanting.
Step out for a stroll at one of the many wilderness lodges en route, go for a refreshing swim, or just slow down to photograph the wildlife such as deer, or grazing cows strolling along the road. Horse, llama, and alpaca farms are also in this area. The route turns north into Burns Lake and heads back to Houston along Hwy 16. Grab a Houston Circle Tour: Francois Lake Loop from the Houston Visitor Centre for more details.
Note: All of these routes include some driving on dirt or gravel back roads, but these are well-maintained and quite smooth. Most vehicles will do, though in winter, four-by-four and winter tires are necessary.