Hiking
Two hikers admiring the views (Picture BC photo)
Hiking is popular and trails are plentiful in the Kitimat Valley.
The rich, green forest, ocean air and quiet trails are perfect for getting back to nature. Hiking in this area also provides a good opportunity to see wildlife, including moose and eagles.
Kitimat and the surrounding area offers about 10 easy to difficult hikes within a one-hour drive of town. Choose from paths that take less than an hour round-trip to complete, to intermediate and advanced terrain of various distances with overnight camping as an option for some.
Easy Hiking
The easiest trail in Kitimat is the approximately 45-minute round-trip flat walk to the Giant Spruce Tree and Kitimat River. The path starts close to the town's Riverlodge Recreation Centre, on the west side of the river, just a few minutes walk or drive from downtown. The path winds through old-growth forest to Kitimat's Giant Spruce, which at more than 500 years old is registered as British Columbia's largest spruce tree. The trail ends at the edge of the rushing Kitimat river.
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Advanced Hiking
Another popular but advanced trail is the 6km/3.7mi hike to Mount Elizabeth. The hike is divided into three stages. It takes approximately two and a half hours to reach a viewpoint, another two hours or so to reach Little Elizabeth, a smaller peak, and then, another two hours or so to reach the mountain's summit. A large part of the path follows a ridge, so be careful. The route is great for a bird's eye view of Kitimat and the nearby ocean. Stay overnight for a spectacular sunrise. Note that a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to traverse the last part of the road to the Mount Elizabeth trailhead.
Practical Points
- For detailed information and directions to these trails and others in the area, check out A Guide to Trails & Recreation in the Kitimat Area or Hiking Adventures, two pamphlets available at the Kitimat Visitor Centre on the east side of Highway 37, just before town.
- A guide is not necessary for hiking in the Kitimat Valley, but not all trails are well marked, so get good directions or have the pamphlet handy before setting out.
- Hiking in Northwest British Columbia is best in late summer and early fall, as the trails are then bare of snow.
- If embarking on a backcountry hike, travel with someone and leave word in town regarding destinations and planned return times.
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Things To Do
Outdoor Activities