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From high alpine hiking and river rafting to trout fishing, the area in and around New Hazelton offers enough outdoor exploration to satisfy any adventurer.
Four major salmon rivers are found in the Hazeltons. Fishing lakes abound in the area. Cast for five species of salmon, as well as steelhead, Dolly Varden, and rainbow and cuttroat trout.
Paddle the waters of Seeley Lake Provincial Park or stop to fish, camp, swim or picnic. Take an exhilarating rafting trip on the Bulkley River.
History lovers can tour the award-winning ‘Ksan Historical Village to see 'Ksan's seven traditionally styled Northwest Coast longhouses, replicating ancient First Nations village life.
Stop to view the First Nations totems dotting the Hazeltons and in nearby Kitwanga. Visit Kitwanga Fort National Historic Site to see the site of a one-time, 18th-century fortified village located near a former First Nations trading route.
Take a walking tour to view the restored heritage buildings of Hazelton’s “Old Town.”
Or take the high ground and view the Hagwilget suspension bridge, one of North America’s highest suspension bridges.
In the summer, don’t miss the Kispiox Valley Rodeo, Gitanmaax Cultural Days, Kispiox Valley Music Festival or Hazelton’s Pioneer Days.
In winter, the region’s mountains and lakes provide plenty of room to enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
The Hazeltons appeal to hikers of all experience levels. Trails range from easy family hikes to high alpine adventures for more experienced hikers.
Stroll the boardwalk in New Hazelton. Blue Mountain Trail and Sidina Mountain Trail are longer stretches, reaching into alpine terrain. For a long day’s trek, or overnight backpacking, set out for Moonlit Trail (also called the Kispiox Mountain Trail) on a steady climb through old-growth forest leading to an alpine ridge. A small campsite is set near the top of the ridge.
In addition to private campgrounds and RV parks in the area, you’ll find vehicle-accessible camping in well-maintained Seeley Lake Provincial Park. Backcountry camping is also available nearby.
Head down the road from the Visitor Info Centre in New Hazelton to drive or walk over the Hagwilget suspension bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in North America. The bridge looms 81 m (265 ft) over the scenic waters of the Bulkley River. You can also hike down to the river’s edge for a closer look at the water.
Located within Gitxsan territory, near the historic village of Gitanmaax, ‘Ksan Historical Village is a two-time winner of an “Attractions Canada” award.
You’ll find the 'Ksan's seven traditionally styled Northwest Coast longhouses, all facing the river, authentically replicate life in an ancient First Nations village. Experience the richness of Gitxsan culture and heritage while touring this once important fishing site and transportation hub at the confluence of the Skeena and Bulkley Rivers. ‘Ksan’s museum collection consists of approximately 600 items including bent boxes, ceremonial masks, and shaman’s regalia.
Stop to view the First Nations totems that rise across the Hazeltons and in nearby Kitwanga. Each depicts stories of local Aboriginal clans and families.
Take a walking tour to view the restored heritage buildings of Hazelton’s “Old Town,” also stopping to see antique machinery and a museum along the way.
Kitwanga Fort National Historic Site is all that remains of an 18th-century fortified village set on a steep-sided mound known as Battle Hill. Located near a First Nations trade route, see the site from the viewing platform adjacent to the highway or take the trail leading to the hill’s summit. Interpretive signs explain the site's historical importance to the Gitwangak First Nation.
Follow the Hand of History tour on a 112-km (70-mi) self-guided journey that circles through the Hazeltons and other southwest communities. Signposts indicate points of interest, including First Nations totems, the Hagwilget suspension bridge, ‘Ksan Historical Village and Kitwanga Fort National Historic Site.
Billed as the “Biggest Little Rodeo in the West,” the annual Kispiox Valley Rodeo features foot-stomping fun from bareback riding to steer wrestling. This event is held the first weekend in June.
Kispiox Valley Music Festival ushers in three day of glorious music at the end of July, featuring international performers.
Held in Hazelton every August, Pioneer Days is much like a small town street party complete with a parade, craft display, food and dance.
Gitanmaax Cultural Days in August provide an intimate display of Aboriginal dancing, drumming, food and other demonstrations.
Glide along the waters at Seeley Lake Provincial Park while canoeing or fishing for rainbow or cutthroat trout. The park also offers campsites, swimming and picnic areas.
Walk the lakeside trail, angle for trout, launch your boat, take a dip, or spread out your picnic in Ross Lake Provincial Park.
Allen Park in New Hazelton is a restful place to picnic or enjoy the family playground. Hike up the nearby lookout/waterfall trail for scenic views.
East of the Hazeltons along Highway 16, look for the pullout and rest area offering dramatic views of Moricetown Canyon. See where the Bulkley River cascades through the narrow canyon walls.
Four major salmon rivers are found in the Hazeltons: the Skeena, Bulkley, Kispiox and Suskwa. Fishing lakes also abound in the area. Anglers can cast for five species of salmon, as well as steelhead, Dolly Varden, and rainbow and cutthroat trout. Dip your paddle into Ross Lake or Seeley Lake in the Hazeltons. Many other local lakes and rivers also offer canoeing and kayaking opportunities.
Set off on the Bulkley River for one of BC’s most exciting, scenic whitewater day-rafting trips. The river boasts 30 rapids and finishes near the 'Ksan Historical Village, where the Bulkley and Skeena Rivers meet. For a more serene paddle try “river drifting” down the gentle Kispiox River.
Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will find a vast landscape to explore in the Hazeltons. Ross Lake Provincial Park is just one popular place to make tracks.
Nine Mile Mountain is a favourite destination for snowmobilers, who enjoy gentle slopes, suitable for beginners, or more varied terrain, great for experienced riders.
Ross Lake and Seeley Lake are just two local lakes that freeze over in winter, providing great surfaces for ice fishing and ice skating.
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