Hudson Hope: Water, Nature and Dinosaur Tracks

When you arrive in Hudson Hope from Chetwynd, you can see the Peace Canyon Dam from the bridge. The view adds a distinctive touch to your arrival. In and near Hudson Hope, activities on the water meet natural areas and an extraordinary opportunity to explore the past: the Six Peaks Dinosaur Track Site contains nearly 1,200 dinosaur tracks from at least 12 different dinosaur species.

Getting out on the water and exploring the trails

In Hudson Hope, you can go boating on Williston Lake, Dinosaur Lake and the Peace River. If you like to include time on the water in your trip, these three different bodies of water offer places to start. Cycling is also part of everyday life here: Hudson Hope is suited to both recreational rides and commuting or running errands. The options therefore go beyond a vacation ride alone.

ATV riding is permitted on designated trails. Horseback riding offers a different focus: Hudson Hope has trail rides and horseback riding stays in the backcountry. Nearby, you can also hike or ride in the Jamieson Woods Nature Preserve. If you’d like to make your trip active, you can choose between cycling, boating, horseback riding and hiking; your group’s specific interests can help you find the right accommodation as a base.

Natural areas and distinctive landscapes

Butler Ridge Park is near Hudson Hope, on the north shore of the Peace Reach of Williston Lake. The park provides boat access to Williston Lake, the largest man-made lake in British Columbia. There are also opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking in the park. This makes the area appealing not only to people who want to get out on the water, but also to visitors who want to spend time outdoors watching wildlife or hiking.

The Jamieson Woods Nature Preserve protects a landscape of ancient sand dunes and an aspen forest. This combination offers a different nature experience from activities by the lake. The Steam Vents Trail runs through an old-growth protected area. The Steam Vents Site offers views of a lake and a clear look at geothermal activity. If you want to experience nature not just as a backdrop but also in its distinctive forms, these places add to the range of activities around Hudson Hope.

Dinosaur tracks and discoveries

The Six Peaks Dinosaur Track Site near Hudson Hope is a specific destination for anyone interested in prehistoric times and Earth’s history: nearly 1,200 tracks come from at least 12 different dinosaur species. The site offers a tangible way to explore Earth’s history. For a trip with children, this unusual discovery can be an opportunity to learn about dinosaurs and their tracks together.

Visitor information and seasonal amenities

The Hudson’s Hope Visitor Centre is located in Beattie Park and offers free internet access and public restrooms. The W.A.C. Bennett Visitor Centre is also nearby. It is accessible from Highway 29 via Canyon Drive; follow Canyon Drive 21 km west to the Williston Reservoir.

The Hudson’s Hope Pool is a public outdoor pool with a combined wading pool. It is open during the summer months, from the Victoria Day long weekend to the Labour Day long weekend. This seasonal period is especially important if an outdoor pool is part of your trip plans. Hudson Hope also has municipal campgrounds.

Events are also part of the town’s history: annual high school rodeos were held in Hudson Hope, and the Hudson’s Hope Winter Carnival took place every January. The Hudson’s Hope Fall Fair was held in August. These events represent different aspects of the town’s past life.

When looking for a holiday rental in Hudson Hope, it’s worth starting with the mix of water, activity, nature and discovery you’re looking for. A stay focused on boating differs from a trip centred on dinosaur tracks, ancient sand dunes or geothermal activity.

If you’d like to explore more places: Dawson Creek, Pouce Coupe, Taylor, Tumbler Ridge, Fort St. John, Chetwynd.

For the regional travel overview: Peace River.