Have you ever moved away from somewhere, but longed to go back? That’s what Prince George is to me. I left at 18 years old, moved to the big city for 15 years, and built somewhat of a life. Only to realize how much I hated it, and needed to return to my home, Prince George, BC. There is nothing like the small town feel in a city that offers short commute times, top notch local businesses and restaurants, craft breweries, and of course endless adventures outdoors.
PG lifestyle
If you’re like me, I enjoy the outdoors, and small-town lifestyle, yet the convenience of a city. Prince George gives me what I need. I love having great shopping, including local small businesses that thrive with the support of this amazing community. One of my personal favourites is Back Forty Lifestyle Co. It’s a locally designed clothing company with a Prince George themed feel. They feature other locally and regionally based items in their store, all to help you stay “built for the backforty”. Love the slogan!
Eats and drinks
If you’re into craft beer, PG won’t leave you thirsty. Crossroads Brewing and Distillery and Trench Brewing and Distilling offer amazing food and brews all around. The vibe at Crossroads is cool and loungy. They offer the best patio in town. Check out the pizzas; they are delicious! Trench is casual and welcoming. It’s just really awesome place for drinks and the nachos are drool worthy.
The Northern Lights Estate Winery is something so special in Prince George. Its stunning location and views are second to none. I love taking my Pretty Wild Adventure Co. clients here to enjoy a tasting and the delectable menu at the bistro. For us local wine lovers, Northern Lights is where it’s at!
Winter activities
This is a winter blog post so let’s talk about the next level winter opportunities in Prince George. The local ski hills in and around the city are excellent. The local Hart Ski Hill is a family favourite. It’s an affordable, fun activity. The Hart ski school has taught generations of local kids to ski and snowboard. Purden Ski Village is approximately 45 minutes from town. This is the largest ski area in the north, and is a fantastically fun day! Personally, one of my fav’s to ski. And of course, Powder King. With some of the best snow in the world to ski, we love taking ladies only ski trips here. It’s worth the 2.5 hour drive for sure.
If you’re into snowshoeing or cross country skiing, this is the place for you! If you’re looking for a short and sweet evening snowshoe, Ferguson Lake Nature Reserve is one of our most popular Snowshoes and Headlamps. Just east of the city, Viking Ridge is a real winter adventure for snowshoeing or backcountry skiing. The best thing about snowshoeing is that it’s a one time cost winter sport, and Prince George has literally endless local trails to explore! For you cross country skiers, the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club has beautiful trails just for you.
One of my most loved winter activities is to saddle up my horse and ride some of the trails. Not only does the Pidherny Rec Site offer stellar trails for winter mountain biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking, it also is a fantastic place to go for a horseback ride on a crisp winter day.
I am so grateful to live in this beautiful, vibrant city with endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. When I moved back to Prince George, I promised myself I would never take for granted what is offered to my family and I, and by starting my own adventure company, I’m keeping that commitment. I want to keep adventuring, keep exploring and share these opportunities with others. Stay wild PG!
Cherrie –Pretty Wild Adventure Co
