Day 1 – Journey to Smithers
Today, you’ll drive through the traditional territories of several First Nations, including Wet’suwet’en and Gitxsan people. Canada is home to over half a million people who identify as ‘First Nations’, spread over 52 different tribes. The indigenous history and culture is deeply rooted in the landscapes, and you’ll notice this in the carved totem poles that tell stories of families, legends and their connections to the land and animals.
Covering around 350km, you’ll make your way from the port town of Prince Rupert or the remote border town of Stewart to Smithers, following the scenic ‘Totem Pole Route’. There are plenty of meaningful places to stop along the way, including the Ksan Indian Village, a traditional Gitxsan village replica longhouses, and Moricetown (Witset), where you can watch salmon being caught using willow branch nets. Finally, you’ll arrive in Smithers, often called Little Switzerland, surrounded by the Hudson Bay Mountain Range and known for its European roots, reflected in their chalet-style architecture.
Day 2 – Prince George
This morning, you’ll set off on another scenic journey through northern British Colombia, following the Yellowhead Highway and heading south towards Prince George. The drive takes around four to five hours, but we recommend a short detour to visit the historic Fort St. James, which was the former trading post of the Hudson Bay Company’s fur trappers. Here, you can wander through the original buildings, stepping inside old trading stores and living quarters to get a glimpse into what life was like for traders, settlers, and the local Dakelh First Nations.
Continue on the scenic highway, leaving the mountains behind and entering the lush green hills of Prince George, where you’ll spend the night in a modern hotel on the south side of town. Spend the evening enjoying a tasty meal at one of the nearby restaurants, and if you’re lucky, catch some live music before returning to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.
Day 3 – Departure from Prince George
After picking up a hearty local breakfast at one of the cafes, take a morning stroll along the trails at Forests for the World to start the day with fresh air and nature. Next, you’ll continue on your journey in British Colombia, either travelling towards the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, or camp out under the stars in Wells Gray Provincial Park.
Accommodation
