Population: 5,504

Smithers is located in the Bulkley River Valley, 229 miles west of Prince George and 218 miles east of Prince Rupert on Yellowhead Highway 16. 

Visitor Information: Tourism Smithers Visitor Centre and Chamber of Commerceare located behind the railcar, across from the Bulkley Valley Museum. The museum has developed a self-guided walking tour called the Smithers Culture Crawl and includes historic buildings and museum exhibits on display in downtown businesses. Open year-round, the Visitor Centre has detailed information and maps on area services and recreation; phone 1-800-542-6673; email.

Smithers is the largest town in the Bulkley Valley and the site of Hudson Bay Mountain, a popular ski area in winter. Summer activities here include many outdoor opportunities including jet boat tours, heli-excursions and remote “glamping” (glamorous camping).

All visitor services including accommodations at Capri Motor Inn and Family Restaurant, restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets and a fun downtown shopping district. The government liquor store is located on Highway 16 in the Smithers Shopping Centre. EV plug-inat Smithers city parking lot at 3749 Second Ave.

Camping at Smithers Riverside Municipal Campground & RV Park, which has security, free firewood, showers and flush toilets, water and electrical hookups, potable water, cookhouse and picnic area at Riverside Park on the Bulkley River; turn north on Main Street and watch for signs. Glacier View RV Park and Cabin Rentals is located 8 km/5 miles west of town.

Attractions:

  • Twin Falls and Glacier Gulch, one of the most population tourist destinations in the Bulkley Valley.
  • Moricetown Canyon and Falls on the Bulkley River, for centuries a famous First Nations’ fishing spot.
  • Golf one of two 18-hole courses: Smithers Par 3 RV & Golf east of town, and Smithers Golf & Country Club west of town, with its championship course.
  • Bulkley Valley Fall Fair, one of the largest agricultural exhibitions in the province, held the last weekend in August.
  • Midsummer Music Festival first weekend of July.
  • Summer hiking and winter skiing on Hudson Bay Mountain, elev. 8,700 feet.
  • Fossil hunting at Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park.
  • Excellent lake and river fishing.