Driving is the most popular way to reach Northern BC. Highways 16 and 97, the main arteries of the region, intersect in Prince George, less than 800km/497mi from Vancouver, Calgary, Alberta, or Edmonton, Alberta. This drive can be done in a day, but many holiday-makers prefer a more leisurely, two-day trip.
Both highways are well maintained and are paved for their entire length. Summer travel is particularly pleasurable, as long daylight hours allow for spectacular sightseeing well into the evening hours.
To maximise time in the area, take advantage of one of the region's driving routes.
Car rental companies are conveniently located in the region's major cities and towns as well as at regional airports.
Major Routes
Highway 16: Highway 16, known as the Yellowhead Highway, runs from Jasper, Alberta, in the east, to the Queen Charlotte Islands off BC's North Coast. In between, the highway passes through many cities and towns including Prince George, Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Houston, Smithers, Terrace and Prince Rupert.
Motorists wishing to visit the Queen Charlotte Islands board a BC Ferries vessel in Prince Rupert. All larger towns on these islands are accessible by car. The longest stretch of paved roadway is along Highway 16 on Graham Island, which stretches 101km (63mi) from the Skidegate ferry terminal to Masset at the island's north end.
Highway 97: Highway 97 heads north from Prince George through the towns of Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Fort St. John and Fort Nelson. In Dawson Creek, the highway becomes Mile 0 of the Alaska Highway, which continues 2,395km (1,488mi) to Fairbanks, Alaska.
This legendary highway attracts travellers worldwide. The highway is paved but distances are great – make sure to keep the gas tank topped up, carry serviceable spare tires and keep headlights on at all times while driving. Service stations are few and far between but most stay open all year round.
Highways 37 and 37A: The Stewart-Cassiar Highway (Highways 37 and 37A) begins at the junction of Highway 16 near New Hazelton and runs north 722km (449mi) before connecting to the Alaska Highway in the Yukon. The road is now paved for most of its length but services and towns are sparse.
This area is home to some of BC's most pristine wilderness. Highway 37A branches off Highway 37 at Meziadin Junction, heading 65km (40mi) to the town of Stewart on the BC/Alaska border. This short stretch of roadway provides some of the most exceptional scenery in the Coast Mountains and is a worthwhile detour for travellers heading north.
By Ferry
Motorists can also access Northern BC by passenger/vehicle ferry to Prince Rupert from either Port Hardy on Vancouver Island or Southeast Alaska.
Travelling in Winter
Northern BC winters are longer and colder than in the south. Winter driving requires more preparation. Roads are well maintained, but drivers and their vehicles should be able to adjust to rapidly changing conditions. The vehicle must have good winter-tread tires and be thoroughly winterised with a block heater.
Keep in mind that average daily lows in some northern cities and towns drop to -25ºC/-13°F or lower. Don't take anything for granted. Driving in winter conditions can be a challenge even for experienced drivers. Check road conditions before leaving.
Logging Roads
The region's logging roads are open to the public unless otherwise posted. There are no gas stations on them, and some are not suitable for large RVs. These roads are built for industrial traffic and care should be taken.
Be aware that logging trucks and other working vehicles have right-of-way on industrial roads; obey any restrictions that may apply on these roads as well. Weekend travel is advisable when most logging ceases. Check with local BC Visitor Centres and Forest Service offices for updates.
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