Smithers

Explore Smithers in different ways: the Perimeter Trail Network is a scenic 13-kilometre loop, while the Willowvale Wetlands Loop Trail is a short, flat route through a wetland. Art and events can also shape a trip to Smithers. You can decide whether you would rather spend your time on trails and in nature, exploring art, or taking part in a festival.

Loop trails for different interests

The Perimeter Trail Network is suitable for walking, cycling and other wheeled activities. At 13 kilometres long, it offers a clear framework for planning your day: you can make the loop your main activity or treat it as one of several interests on your trip. Scenic viewpoints with benches and local parks along the trail are also part of the experience.

The parks have washroom facilities, picnic tables and opportunities for a range of recreational activities. These amenities are a practical part of the Perimeter Trail’s nature experience. If you are travelling with family, you can consider whether a longer loop with time in the parks fits your plans. The Willowvale Wetlands Loop Trail is another option: it is short and flat, and leads through a wetland. The two trails therefore differ in their stated length and terrain.

Wetland and birdlife

The wetland at Willowvale Wetlands is home to waterfowl, songbirds and seasonal migratory birds. A total of 117 bird species have been recorded there. This gives the natural setting a specific connection to birdlife: those interested in birds and wetlands will find a distinct focus here alongside the activities on the Perimeter Trail. The short, flat loop runs through this area; its length is not specified, so you can choose the route based on its character.

Art for different age groups

The Smithers Art Gallery is a community gallery focused on visual art. It primarily displays works by artists from the region, British Columbia and other parts of Canada. This makes it a cultural attraction in Smithers alongside the outdoor activities. The exhibitions may be of particular interest to travellers who do not want to focus their stay solely on activity and nature.

The gallery offers art camps, free summer art activities for children, and workshops for adults, older teens and experienced artists. These different formats appeal to a range of interests and age groups. For families, the summer activities for children are a specific cultural highlight; adults and older teens may find the workshops a focus of their own. If you would like to include art in your trip, you can consider the gallery and its offerings when planning, without limiting your stay to a particular age group.

The Bulkley Valley Exhibition & Fall Fair

The Bulkley Valley Exhibition & Fall Fair is an annual four-day event held at the Smithers Fall Fair Grounds. Its program includes rodeo, live music and entertainment, rides and games, agricultural exhibits, and a parade. This mix brings together different parts of the festivities and offers a different reason to visit than the trails, wetland or gallery. If you are interested in this kind of event, the Fall Fair may be a factor when deciding when Smithers fits into your travel plans.

Choose Smithers as a vacation destination

When looking for a vacation rental in Smithers, your travel interests can help you decide: would you like to plan time for a 13-kilometre loop, choose a short, flat route through a wetland, or combine nature experiences with art? The annual Fall Fair offers another distinct focus. These options represent different ways to experience Smithers. Consider which ones matter for your trip before choosing accommodation as a base for planning your vacation.

More places to explore

If you would like to explore more destination pages, you can find Fort St James, Fort Fraser, Smithers Landing, Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Bulkley-Nechako C, Granisle and Houston here: Fort St James, Fort Fraser, Smithers Landing, Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Bulkley-Nechako C, Granisle and Houston.

For the broader travel overview: Bulkley-Nechako.