Visiting Northern British Columbia & Yukon

This is the season to visit Terrace, the commercial hub of northwest British Columbia, for a chance sighting of a white Kermode Bear – sightings are rare, however the legendary mascot brings good fortune to a lucky few. Experience the world’s best salmon and steelhead fishing on the Skeena River – there are plenty of outfitters for travelers to northwest BC. May brings the opening of the Terrace Farmer’s Market, the largest in Northern BC. The Skeena Valley Farmers Market features over 70 local farmers and vendors selling homegrown and home-crafted products. The farmer’s market is open Saturday mornings at the west end of George Little Park in Terrace.

Take a scenic drive north on Kelum Lake Drive, along the banks of the Skeena River, to Rosswood, or head south to Lakelse Lake Provincial Park for a hike along the Twin Spruce Trail, and on a hot day a swim in Lakelse Lake. Venture east of Terrace to Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site to tour replicas of First Nations historical displays. Hike the interpretive nature trial to the canyon overlooking the Skeena River to see totem poles and petroglyphs.

Further north in Yukon, the Wilderness City of Whitehorse is a hub for summer adventures and culture. Music fans visit Whitehorse June 7th to 9th for the 2013 Kluane Mountain Bluegrass Festival. Summer in Whitehorse is the place for paddlers to test their skills. The Yukon 1000 takes place in even number years so plan for the 2013 Yukon 360, August 17th – featuring a course on the McQuesten River Runners visit in August for a run through the hills around Whitehorse at the 2013 Yukon River Trail Marathon.

For an early 2013 season BC challenge, check out the Barkerville Rush Relay beginning at the Quesnel Recreation Centre on May 19th. Teams of runners complete 8 relay legs on a course of 100 kms from Quesnel to the community of Wells. Adding to the fun of the race, teams also compete for bragging rights for best costume.

Dawson Creek on the British Columbia side of Canada’s Peace Country hosts the 2013 Greatest Show in Peace. The 91st Dawson Creek Exhibition & Stampede is August 7th through 11th. Don’t miss the Dawson Creek Exhibition Association Annual Main Parade on Friday the 9th. New for 2013 is the Ranch Rodeo on the 7th and 8th, and daily Thoroughbred Horse Racing.

The village of Valemount blooms with the warmth of summer drawing outdoor enthusiasts to the trails and forests of Canada’s pristine Rocky Mountains. Music enthusiasts travel north of Valemount in August for the Robson Valley Music Festival. Take a short trip 60 km north through Jackman Flats Provincial Park to Dunster, August 16th through 18th, and enjoy the lineup of performers including Punch Drunk Cabaret, Rachelle van Zanten, and Oliver Swain.

Northern British Columbia & Yukon Hotel Map