Do you love the fall? The leaves changing colours; the smell of wild cranberries; the little bite in the air from the cool wind.
Hiking around Prince George in autumn is a wonderful experience for all of your five sense. I want to tell you about my top five favourite fall hikes.
Fang Mountain
Fang Mountain in the remote Evanoff Provincial Park can be summed up in one word: EPIC. It is such an interesting hike. Multiple creek crossings, bouldering, and scrambling help you forget just how hard you are breathing during this strenuous hike, with over 1200 m in elevation gain. Every single time I climb this trail, I am in awe of the views it offers along the entire climb. Before you take on this hike, be sure to stop by Trench Brewing and grab a pack of Fang so you can enjoy a cool Fang at Fang Mountain.
Mount Pope
Mount Pope is approximately 90 minutes from Prince George. This mountain overlooks Stuart Lake, which in my opinion, is the most beautiful lake in the province. If you’re into 360 degree views, this is the perfect hike for you! The views of Stuart Lake and surrounding area are so impressive. This hike is a good 14 km round trip, with the option to take an alternate route down for some different scenery, and even check out some caves in the area. There is a great area at the top with a bench and other seating, making it a perfect place to snack on a charcuterie-to-go from Birch and Boar located on historic George Street.
Fraser Mountain
Fraser Mountain is a fantastic 10 km hike 90 minutes west of Prince George. This is a fun trail with lots of ups and downs and great views along the way. Be sure to check out the old wooden fire tower at the top, but stay off: it’s getting pretty rickety. This hike offers fantastic views on the ridge at the top of the Bulkley Valley and of Fraser Lake part way up at around the 2 km mark. There are lots of great spots to stop for lunch on this trail. Post hike, there is always time to stop into Northern Lights Estate Winery and share a bottle on their beautiful patio that overlooks the Nechako River.
Raven Lake
The Raven Lake trail winds through old growth forest East of Prince George. It makes for a great 10 km in and out trek, or if you’re lucky enough to book the gorgeous cabin on the alpine lake, a nice overnight. The ridge trail offers some nice views as well, if you ever get tired of watching the fish jump on the lake. This hike is approximately 90 km out town, and is a perfect morning hike. If you want to hit up a patio with some great fire tables post-hike, CrossRoads Brewing and Distilling serves up some great pizzas and crafts beers!
Fort George Canyon
Fort George Canyon is a beautiful walk through the woods and down into the canyon along the Fraser River. This is a great hike or snowshoe year-round, but fall is especially beautiful due to the brightly coloured foliage. The ever changing scenery along the river with water levels and time make this a favourite and being so close to town, only 20 minutes down the Blackwater Road, makes it even better. Make sure to grab a lunch and have picnic by the water. Our go-to lunch on the go is Homesteader Meats. They make amazing sandwiches and have grab and go snacks ready!
These five hikes are just a few of our local gems. There are so many absolutely incredible trails and hikes in the area that will blow your mind. Get out there, grab a guide book from Back Forty Lifestyle Co., or contact the very knowledgeable Caledonia Ramblers for suggestions and information. Or find a cool group that just likes to get outside and explore together!
Stay Wild PG,
Cherrie Cloarec
Pretty Wild Adventure Co.
