Fort St. James' landscape of flat stretches and rolling hills and its location amid a vast network of waterways makes it a natural hub for outdoor recreation.
In the summer, many of the town's recreational opportunities are focused around Stuart Lake – water activities such as boating, swimming, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing, to name a few. Fishing for rainbow trout either in Stuart Lake, Stuart River, or nearby freshwater lakes is another main draw here.
To get some great views of the area, explore the mountains on one of many easily accessible hikes. Mount Pope is the most popular hiking destination and a must for any mountain climbers. The trailhead is minutes from downtown and the summit offers an excellent view of Stuart Lake. Mountain biking is another awesome way to explore the forests surrounding town. An entire network of cross-country and downhill trails is mapped out and ready to be conquered.
Other warm weather activities include strolling along the waterfront, playing a relaxing game of tennis at the local courts, or teeing off for a challenging game of golf. ATVing is also available here if you've got the equipment and know how.
Winter Activities
Murray Ridge, Fort St. James' local ski area, has both mellow and steep pitched runs for downhill skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. The area also has cross-country trails. Murray Ridge's day lodge is great for a cozy hot drink next to a woodstove after a day in the snow.
The lake, again, offers fabulous recreational opportunities in the winter. Zip across it on a snowmobile, ice fish, or connect with the local dogsled trainer in town and go for a ride. The community also has an annual dogsled race. The newest sport (not for the meek) to try on the ice is snow kiting: Strap on a wakeboard/snowboard and grab a huge surfing kite.
Historic Sites
Check out the Fort St. James National Historic Site. Once an active Hudson Bay Company and fur trading post, the site has been fully restored and offers visitors an authentic look into the area's trading history. Costumed interpreters tell the tales of the site's culture and history.
Other not-to-miss historic sites in town are the Russ Baker Memorial and Our Lady of Good Hope Church, both on the waterfront in Cottonwood Park. First Nations sites of historical significance include a series of pictographs on the edges of Stuart Lake, accessible by boat only, and the gravesite of an influential First Nations leader, Chief Kwah.
Entertainment
One of Fort St. James' best events is the Cottonwood Music Festival. The festival features performances from around the region staged next to the waterfront in Cottonwood Park. This is a friendly, family-oriented event. Various musical guests perform throughout the year as well.
Where to Begin?
For more information on Fort St. James and things to do there, stop by the Visitor Centre, at the corner of Kwah Road and Hwy 27, on the way to town. Pick up various pamphlets on attractions in the community as well as an easy to read visitor guide.
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