Things To Do

Fort St. John has limitless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Hike the 5.6km/3.5mi of trails at the Fort St. John Fish Creek Community Forest, spot a variety of water birds at Charlie Lake during the spring migration period, boat and fish the area's vast network of waterways and lakes.

In winter, stick to cross-country ski trails at Beatton Provincial Park, or carve a new path along the area's flat prairie land. Snowmobiling at Redfern-Keily Provincial Park (250km/155mi northwest Fort St. John) in the Rocky Mountains is another great winter option – sledders can even wilderness camp overnight.

To experience Fort St. John's diverse history and culture, visit the Fort St. John North Peace Museum, or catch a show at the North Peace Cultural Centre.

Land Activities

In addition to amazing hiking, bird watching, camping, and golfing, Fort St. John also offers east access to great ATVing. Ride on local ATV trails including Johnston Creek (trail length: 34km/21mi) near Taylor, Gagne Road near Stewart Lake, and Christina Falls (trail length: 22km/14mi) in Graham-Laurier Provincial Park. The local Moose ATV Club grooms trails annually for a clean and enjoyable experience.

Bike paved trails around Fort St. John (also suited to leisurely strolls), or ride along quiet country roads that meander through agricultural lands and spectacular river valleys. There are no bike rentals available in town; however there is a specialty bike shop.

Water Activities

When not windsurfing on Charlie Lake or reeling in prize-winning rainbow trout, check out the North Peace Leisure Pool (9505 - 100 St). Decked out with a sauna, steam room, hot tub, waterslide, wave pool, lap pool, North Peace Leisure Pool caters to the entire family. In summer, the outdoor spray park is especially fun.

Copelands Beach is an undeveloped local getaway site along the Beatton River. Relax on the sand beach, or hike upstream and raft back down the lazy shallow water. The rutted dirt road leading to the beach winds into to the valley, so it's best to have a truck or SUV. Make sure water levels are low, and be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty.

Arts & Culture

Tour the Fort St. John North Peace Museum, which has fascinating exhibits that feature artifacts from First Nations settlement, fur trading in the area, the construction of the Alaska Highway, and more. Check out the Heritage Kiosk Walking Tour with photos of old Fort St. John and Alaska Highway construction.

The North Peace Cultural Centre houses a 413-seat theatre for musical and theatrical productions, the Peace Gallery North, featuring works by local and internationally recognized artists, and the Fort St. John Public Library. The Cultural Centre also has conference rooms and a dance studio.

Fort St. John has a vibrant theatre arts scene that includes staged plays and musicals, and dinner-theatre shows. Stage North Theatre Society, Fort St. John's largest community theatre group, stages three or four productions per year.

Festivals & Events

The North Peace Fall Fair, held each August, began in 1929, the fair celebrates local farming and agriculture, featuring food, live music, tractor pulls, and other competitions. Fair grounds are located approximately 20-30 minutes north of Fort St. John on Rose Prairie Road (left hand side). Drive north on 100 Street and continue on to the fair grounds.

In nearby Taylor, spend and enjoyable afternoon checking out the World's Invitational Gold Panning Competition held each summer.The annual Spirit of the Peace Pow Wow is another exciting event.

In winter, the High on Ice Festival, featuring a professional and amateur ice carving competition, winter curling bonspiel, ice fishing derby, and other activities is held in Centennial Park.

Driving Routes

Take advantage of Fort St. John's bird watching, boating, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling opportunities along various interesting driving routes. Learn more about driving routes through Fort St. John here: Driving Routes.

For more information on things to do in Fort St. John, stop by the Visitor Centre.

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