Northern BC

Smithers

A Small Mountain Town with Lots of Bike Love

Smithers is located on traditional Wet’suwet’en territory in the beautiful Bulkley Valley. The area is riddled with rivers and surrounded by mighty mountains. Historically, it’s the rivers and the fish within them that have attracted tourists to the area, but in more recent years, Smithers has become a hotspot for mountain biking in Northern BC.

What started in the 90s as a small group of dedicated people who loved biking and craved adrenaline has flourished into a thriving mountain bike community. The rich history of mountain biking in the Valley is evident in the quantity and quality of trails in the area. Whether it’s technical singletrack, cruisey flow trails, or family fun, Smithers has got something for everyone. The town, the people, and the biking will not disappoint.

Number of Trails:

Highest Elevation:

2,106 m

Trails:

easy: 5
intermediate: 25
difficult: 12
extra difficult: 1

Riding Northern BC | Backdoor Trail, Smithers - Nate Hills

Getting Here & Trail Access

Get here by plane, train, or automobile. Smack dab in the middle between Prince George and Prince Rupert, you can’t miss this mountain bike hub.

Smithers on Trailforks.com

Driving to Smithers is a journey—especially if you are coming from anywhere south of Prince George—but the views along Highway 16 will be worth your efforts.

Driving Distances & Times:

Prince George - 370 km (230 mi), 4 hours 20 minutes
Kamloops - 890 km (553 mi), 8 hours 20 minutes
Vancouver - 1,150 km (715 mi), 13 hours
Calgary - 1,150 km (715 mi), 13 hours

The Smithers Airport offers direct daily flights to Vancouver with Air Canada, as well as flights with Central Mountain Air to a host of other BC and Albertan communities.

VIA Rail also operates a train that passes through Smithers several times a week while travelling between Prince George and Prince Rupert.