The Discovery Highway Route

Northern BC’s East-west corridor Highway #16 has friendly communities, great attractions and incredible scenery. Take time to experience the “Yellowhead”.

The eastern border community is Tete Jaune Cache from here the scenery begins to flatten out into a fertile valley. The Rockies are to the north and the Cariboo Mountains are to the south. The town of McBride is the region’s service centre. Enjoy the view of river valleys and forests through this sparsely populated section of Northern BC.

Arrive at BC’s northern capital, Prince George a culturally diverse city that has a lot to discover. Drive through the rolling hills, past farms and forests on the way to charming Vanderhoof. See Side Trips for information on historic Fort St. James.

The Lake District begins with the towns of Fraser Lake and Fort Fraser. Scenic Burns Lake is the northern gateway to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. See Side Trips for information on Babine Lake. Houston is steelhead country, home to the world class fly-fishing.

Telkwas is a beautiful, historic town just before Smithers, which is a picturesque alpine community and playground for year-round outdoor activities. At Moricetown watch the Native fishermen. In the Hazeltons, Kispiox and Kitwanga, find yourself immersed in Aboriginal culture. A must see is the ‘Ksan Historical Village.

Arrive in friendly Terrace where local history and First Nations culture are presented in many area attractions. See Side Trips for information on the Nisga’a Highway. Depart for Prince Rupert marvel at the incredible scenery, the highway winds along the Skeena River.

Visit North Pacific Cannery in Port Edward. Prince Rupert has lots to offer; cultural, historical and outdoor activities. Finish the journey in mystical Haida Gwaii, no trip along the Yellowhead is complete until you’ve been there! See Side Trips for information on Haida Gwaii.

Side Trips
To historic Fort St. James take Highway #27 established as a fur trading post back in 1806. Have a look at the modern day community too.

To Granisle on Babine Lake, look for wildlife and check out the Fulton River Spawning Channel, the world’s largest sockeye spawning facility.

To the Nisga’a Communities, the Nisga’a Highway connects to New Aiyansh and the Nisga’a Memorial Lava Beds. The roads are mostly brand new and continue to Gitwinksihlkw, Lax galt’sap and Gingolx.

To Haida Gwaii take a ferry to Skidegate, visit Queen Charlotte City, Tlell and Old Masset and other island towns. Respect the culture and tradition of the Haida people.