One of the things I missed most about Prince George when I moved to the Lower Mainland was being able to easily access the outdoors. After having experienced the extraordinarily long time it took to get anywhere in the Lower Mainland and now that I’m back in the city in which I grew up, I have an even greater appreciation for how lucky I am to be able to hop in my car after work and be on a trail or a lake within 15 to 45 minutes. You could choose to make a day of any of these three hiking and paddling combos, but if you’re someone who likes to get outside during your work week, these pairings are perfect for an after-work experience. Summer is almost over, but fall is also a lovely time of year for outdoor recreating, so make sure to get out there while you can!
Berman Lake – Christina Doll
Hike Teapot Mountain then cool off at Summit Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
Teapot Mountain is a popular hiking trail located about an hour’s drive North of Prince George. It’s considered a moderate hike because it only takes a little over an hour to complete. But if you plan to take on this hike after work, be aware that the trail is quite steep and can be challenging so make sure you’re feeling energized. I promise that the steep ascent is totally worth it due to the stunning view from the top! After you’ve wrapped up your hike, drive 20 minutes back toward Prince George and hop on your paddle board or kayak to cool off at Summit Lake. If you’re hungry after all of this post-work activity and are back early enough, stop by Ray’s Burger Barn located along Highway 97 to refuel on your way back into the city.
Teapot – Christina Doll
Climb the cutbanks then watch the sunset at Eena Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
The cutbanks line the rivers that run through Prince George and are an iconic feature in the city. But did you know you can climb them? Park at McMillan Creek Regional Park and walk the trail that lines the road to the cutbanks until you reach the trail base. You can either climb straight up the cutbanks with the help of a rope that runs down the hill or tackle the slightly easier switchback trail. After you’ve climbed the cutbanks as many times as you’d like, hop in your car and drive about a half hour North to Eena Lake. This lake is closed to motorized boat traffic, so it’s the perfect place for a peaceful sunset paddle. Fuel up between or after stops at the Northern Lights Estate Winery, which is conveniently located right across from the cutbanks.
Cutbanks – Christina Doll
Stroll the Greenway Trail around Shane Lake then paddle Berman Lake
Difficulty: Easy
If you’re looking for a more leisurely after-work adventure, head to the Greenway Trail at Forests for the World and walk the Shane Lake Loop. This should take you about an hour and then it’s about a 40-minute drive to Berman Lake. You can stick to paddling around the lake or take the channel that connects to Bednesti Lake and search for Pirate Island. Time-permitting, stop by CrossRoads Tap & Kitchen in College Heights for a pint and a pizza. You deserve it after all of that walking and paddling!
Shane Lake – Christina Doll
About the author: Christina was born and raised in Prince George and lived in the Lower Mainland for two years while attending school before returning home to start her career. She worked first as a radio journalist and then a public relations specialist in Prince George for almost a decade before transitioning into economic development. She has a passion for storytelling and for providing support to local businesses and organizations to help them grow and thrive. When not working, you can find her outdoors hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding or snowshoeing, getting creative, enjoying local events, shopping at the Farmers’ Market, socializing at local restaurants and breweries, or taking in live music.
