Fort George Canyon Provincial Park
About This Park
This small 178 hectare park consists of two parcels on either side of the Fraser River south of the city of Prince George. Public recreation opportunities and trail access is available on the west side of the river. Up until 1914 the Fraser River was the highway in and out of this part of British Columbia and Fort George Canyon was one of the obstacles that sternwheelers had to navigate. Rapid and dangerous, this canyon abounds in whirlpools and massive, jagged rocks close to the surface. The park is day-use only. Natural Features: Historic Canyon on the Fraser River, the park protects the historic winch site used by paddle-wheeled boats in the early 1900’s and related portage, a native fishing site and popular hiking trail.
Park Size: 178 hectares
Stay Safe:
- Bring your own drinking water as potable water is not available in the park. Drinking out of any streams or lakes is not recommended unless the water has been filtered or treated.
- Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
Location and Maps
A 4.8 km trail provides access to the west side of the river. The trailhead is located off West Lake Road, 24.5 km from Prince George via Highway 16 west and Blackwater Road. The trailhead and first part of the trail remain under Ministry of Forests jurisdiction. From the edge of the plateau down to the river, the trail is in the park. The park is not road or trail accessible from the east side.
Maps and Brochures
Any maps listed are for information only - they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
- Park Map (PDF)
- As the main portion of the 4.8 trail is under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Forests a trail map can be picked up from them at the Ministry of Forests Office in Prince George.
Nature and Culture
- History - The Fraser River is designated as a Canadian Heritage River and Provincial Heritage River. As the largest river in British Columbia, and the most productive salmon fishery in the world, the Fraser River has played a major role in supporting human life along its length. Locally, Fort George Canyon was an important fishing site for First Nations peoples. The river was an important route for early explorers. In more recent years, the river was used as a route for transportation of people and resources. Fort George Canyon was one of the few obstacles along the river in north central British Columbia. In the early 1900s sternwheelers would have to be winched through this treacherous section of river while passengers would have to portage.
- Cultural Heritage - This area is a native fishing site. The canyon was a major impediment to sternwheelers, and this natural feature had a significant effect on the development of the region, particularly during railway construction.
- Conservation -
- The area is a special feature in the Nechako Lowland Ecosection.
- Dramatic canyon feature with pinnacles of volcanic rock and several islands.
- Riparian vegetation; the east side of the river was previously used for grazing.
- Wildlife - The park is a salmon migration corridor. The park supports white sturgeon populations and a large variety of other fish species.
Activities Available at this Park
Cycling
Fishing
Hiking
Hunting
Wildlife Viewing
