|
 Looking for things to do in Smithers? The town is an oasis for everything outdoors. An abundance of mountains, rivers and lakes – not to mention fossil beds and cultural sights – are all within a few minutes from downtown and easily accessible for self-guided visitors or those on tours.
The Smithers Visitor Centre, at the corner of Main Street and Highway 16, is a great source of information for things to do in town. The centre has comprehensive guides and brochures on specific activities such as hiking, biking, fishing and more.
Winter Activities During the winter, adventurers can choose from cross-country, downhill, backcountry or heli-skiing. Hudson Bay Mountain, just a few minutes drive from downtown, offers consistently dry snow and a great family environment. Ski-in, ski-out cabins are available for rent on the hill. Backcountry skiing in the area is popular because of the easy access. Heli-skiing is offered through a local company, which has access to the second-largest heli-skiing mountain range in North America.
The Bulkley Valley Nordic Centre, also located on Hudson Bay Mountain Road, also has plenty of well-maintained terrain for cross-country skiers of all skill levels. The popular trails include lit paths for night skiing and a special area for those with dogs.
In the winter, the Bulkley Valley also boasts fabulous snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice-skating or ice fishing.
Driving and Walking ToursAn easy way to see Smithers beautiful surroundings is on a day-long driving tour. Drive along Highway 16 to check out the quaint nearby village of Telkwa or go west to see Moricetown Canyon, a historic meeting place for the Wet'suwet'en, the local First Nations band.
In Telkwa, take a historical walking tour of local buildings and at Moricetown Canyon, or visit the interpretive centre to learn more about the contemporary and traditional lives of the First Nations people who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Watch local fishers, standing on the Moricetown canyon rocks above the rushing Bulkley River, waiting for their catch with long spears and nets.
Summer ActivitiesGo for a mountain bike, canoe or kayak, horseback ride, or white-water rafting trip through beautiful, pristine wilderness. Mountain bikes are available to rent in town, as are canoes and kayaks, though there are fewer of these available. Horseback riding and river rafting tours are also on offer via local businesses.
Other interesting day trips in the area include visiting the Toboggan Creek Fish Hatchery or the Wildlife Museum, which is in the shape of an igloo and covered in antlers. Both are a few minutes' drive west of town.
HikingAnother way to enjoy the Bulkley Valley is on one or more the many hiking or walking trails around town. Venture into the Babine Mountains Provincial Park for the day, overnight in one of the park's cabins or drive drive to the top of Hudson Bay Mountain to climb to Glacier Lake. Hiking around Smithers guarantees breathtaking views of clean lakes, rushing rivers, rolling farmland and mountains in every direction. A glimpse of wildlife, even bears, is also likely.
Visitors looking for more of a stroll can tour the perimeter trails that circle past Tyhee Lake Provincial Park, a family beach and swimming area, as well as the municipal campground.
Golf and Fishing A day, or a few days, at one or both of the town's golf courses is another relaxing way to spend a sunny day in Smithers. The par-three course can be a good warm-up before conquering the longer and more challenging golf and country club course on the other side of town.
Fishing by itself – for steelhead or salmon – could be the sole focus of one's trip to Smithers. The vast selection of rivers and lakes makes the area a worldwide destination for anglers. The type, size and easy access to the fish are enticing. Steelhead season, in early fall, is Smithers' busiest time for visitors.
Shopping and RelaxingIn any season, visitors can relax and mill about on Main Street – sip coffee in one of the friendly java joints and shop in the various boutiques and outdoor gear stores. Shoppers will find an array of high quality goods on sale.
The art gallery and Bulkley Valley Museum, both in the Central Park Building near the Visitor Centre, is also an option.
Entertainment In the evening, Smithers is a great place for an intimate evening of music or theatre.
The options of shows may be limited, but most entertainers in Smithers are passionate and full of energy – like the crowd – and talented. Several award-winning musicians are based in Smithers. A night, day, or weekend of music in Smithers guarantees a good time.
The town also hosts music festivals over the year, such as the Midsummer Music Festival and a fiddler's event. Various performances such as dance, drama and musicals also take place.
Learn more about the businesses, activities, events and things to do in Smithers by clicking on the links below.
|