Outdoor Adventures in and around Prince George

Paddle Storied Waters

For millennia, life in Prince George has revolved around two rivers: the storied Fraser River—the longest in BC and the fifth longest in Canada—and the Nechako, its primary tributary. In the Dakelh or Carrier First Nations language, the name Lheidli translates to “The People from the Confluence of the River.” To the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation who call this area home, the former is known as Ltha Koh, the Big Mouth River; the latter, Nee Incha Koh, or river with strong undercurrents. 

Where these two waterways meet is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and community that stretches back generations. Today, they hold endless opportunities for recreation. From the city’s cutbanks, you can hike riverside trails, enjoy waterfront parks, and fish for salmon. But there’s no better way to appreciate these rivers than from on the water. Learn how to tackle the Neckaho’s strong currents in a canoe with operators like Backwater Paddling, or opt for a leisurely stand-up paddle along a calm stretch of the Fraser. For a change of pace, head to one of the hundreds of freshwater lakes that surround Prince George. Tranquil waters, excellent swimming, and an abundance of wildlife await. Popular spots to paddle include West Lake, Carp Lake, and Purden Lake.

Bike or Hike Dozens of Trails

Prince George is also intersected by hundreds of trails that fan out across the surrounding region. You’ll find trails that hug the contours of a riverbend or that cut through the only inland temperate rainforest in the world. There are accessible paths that welcome strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility devices; and technical scrambles to the tops of snowy peaks. Others reveal jumps and berms and are best tackled on two wheels. 

No matter where in the city you find yourself, you’re never far from a trail—especially those in Forests for the World. This municipal park covers 106 hectares (261 acres) of forested terrain and over 15 kilometres (9.5 miles) of trails along the western edge of the city, just a 15-minute drive from downtown. East of Prince George lies Chun T’oh Whudujut/Ancient Forest, a protected park home to stands of thousand-year-old western redcedars. A 450-metre (1,476-foot)-long accessible boardwalk offers access to the trail’s star attraction: the aptly named “Big Tree,” a neck-craning giant cedar that towers outstretched above the mossy forest floor. Stands of Douglas fir line the 500-metre (1,640-feet) Great West Life Mobility Trail, another wheelchair-friendly path that features accessible outhouses, picnic tables, and a gazebo. Further out of town, intrepid hikers can access 360-degree panoramic views from the top of Teapot Mountain or the stunning sub-alpine meadows of Sugarbowl-Grizzly Den Provincial Park. 

Those with a need for speed will find places to pedal throughout the city. Prince George is an emerging mountain bike destination, thanks to a growing trail network noted for its fast and flowy features. Most avid downhill bikers congregate on the berm-heavy trails and jump lines of Pidherny Recreation Site or the steep descents that surround the University of Northern British Columbia. East of town, Tabor Mountain offers shuttle-access and machine-built trails—the city’s version of a bike park—while cross-country and enduro riders looking to fall into rhythmic repetition can find it on the undulating trails of the Caledonia Nordic Centre (Otway Trails).

Recreating Responsibly

The area surrounding Prince George is a place of wild beauty, diverse landscapes, and thriving ecosystems. For generations, they have been carefully managed by the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. Every stretch of river you paddle, kilometre of trail you hike, or hectare of campsite you explore is a testament to their enduring resilience and wisdom. As you recreate, do so responsibly and keep the tenets of their culture close at hand: treat these landscapes and its inhabitants as if they were your kin. Practice Leave No Trace principles; pack out what you pack in and stay on designated trails. Respect the terrain (and your fellow visitors) by planning ahead. Be AdventureSmart: check weather conditions often and make sure to bring essential gear. 

Bears are one of the four clans of the Lheidli T’enneh—their presence is felt (and sometimes seen) not only on the land, but in their stories and legends. Stay Bear Aware so you can help reduce conflict with these majestic creatures. Visiting in hot, dry weather? Be Fire Smart. Wildfires cause devastating impacts for people and place. Like the Lheidli T’enneh, do your part to help protect and preserve these incredible lands for future generations.