Hello, Smithers!
Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge Smithers
Explore Like A Local.
With red brick sidewalls and alpine-style rooflines, Smithers adopted an “alpine theme” in the 1970s. The theme remains strong today with the erection of a new statue of Alpine Al in 2016. Made from 1,000-year-old red cedar and carved by a chainsaw, the new statue stands seven feet tall!
There are many amenities in Smithers, which is the service center for the Bulkley Valley. One of the biggest highlights of this community is the easy access to the great outdoors! Don’t be afraid to explore.
HOW TO GET HERE
No matter how you get here, you’ll enjoy the views. Smithers is easily accessible on the Yellowhead Highway 16, stay up to date on road conditions on the DriveBC website. Air Canada and Central Mountain Air fly into Smithers Regional Airport, only 5 minutes from downtown. VIA Rail has a passenger train service that operates from Jasper to Prince Rupert. One of our favorite ways to get here is by water! Take a ferry up the Northern BC Coast and see how wild the North can be.
THINGS TO DO
Smithers is small but mighty! We know what makes us special is our community and its appreciation for the world around us. With a strong outdoor community, a vibrant arts scene, and a substantial appreciation for culture and history, Smithers has so much to offer.
Wherever your adventures take you, be sure to share your pictures on social media using the hashtags #smithersvibe!
FISHING AND HUNTING
With hundreds of pristine lakes, winding rivers, and a thriving wildlife population, Smithers is a true mecca for anglers and hunters alike. Whether you’re casting a line for world-class steelhead or heading into the wilderness for a guided hunting expedition, the region offers unmatched opportunities for outdoor adventure. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Smithers provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences in the wild.
HIKING AND WALKING
Love hiking? You’ll love Smithers. With many phenomenal hikes only a 15-minute drive from downtown, it’ll be hard choosing where to go, but we promise you’ll be impressed with whatever you choose. Hudson Bay Mountain ski area provides many great hiking options, including Crater Lake. Babine Mountains Provincial Park has some of the finest hiking opportunities in west-central BC. Interested in fossils? Take a trip back in time at the Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park & Fossil Beds!
CULTURE AND HISTORY
The Bulkley Valley is the traditional territory of the Wet’suwet’en. The largest Wet’suwet’en community today is Witset on the Widzin Kwah (Bulkley River). Go Explore the Widzin Jwah Canyon House Museum which features historical displays of traditional life and fishing methods, cultural artifacts, local arts and crafts, and a gift shop! You can also book a Wet’suwet’en cultural tour, where trained cultural tour guides explain the Wet’suwet’en way of life.
ARTS AND MUSIC
Smithers thrives on celebrating every season through captivating art, mesmerizing music, enchanting dance, and vibrant theatre. The town’s cultural scene includes dynamic exhibits at the Smithers Art Gallery, where creativity flourishes. For live music, enjoy Music in the Park by the river or catch performances at the BV Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. As summer arrives, the town comes alive with the Midsummer Music Festival, filling the air with unforgettable melodies. The season wraps up with the BV Fair & Exhibition, featuring an exciting lineup of live bands and festive entertainment.
FOOD & DRINK
Undoubtedly, our top choice for a restaurant in town is Noir Kitchen and Bar, nestled in the heart of Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge. However, should you have already experienced their culinary delights and seek to savor another exceptional local eatery, fear not, as Smithers boasts an array of delightful options! From chic dining destinations to down-home, comforting fare, Smithers caters to all tastes and preferences, leaving you spoilt for choice.
EVENTS
Stay up-to-date with all the exciting happenings in Smithers by exploring our vibrant events calendar! From seasonal festivals and live music to local markets and cultural celebrations, there’s always something happening in town. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, our events calendar helps you make the most of your stay by keeping you connected to the local scene.
SHOP
Embark on a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where a delightful array of local businesses awaits your exploration, each lovingly curated and managed by passionate individuals who take immense joy in what they do!
