Northern BC comprises more than half the entire province. At approximately 500,000 square kilometres, it is larger than California or Japan and twice the size of the United Kingdom. Much of the area is preserved and protected by a world-class system of provincial parks and nature reserves. The mountain ranges, which dominate the northern landscape, were shaped by volcanic fire, then folded and raised by powerful forces below the earth’s surface. The rugged, heavily-forested valleys between them were carved by the glaciers, which at one time covered most of the province.

The entire region is a mecca for those that desire vast wilderness, abundant wildlife and rich First Nations culture. The region is home to many First Nations including the Haida, Tsimshian, NisgaÂ’a, Kaska, Gitxsan, Dene Thah, Dunne-za, Carrier Sekani and the Tlingit people. The monumental totem poles that have become famous throughout the world originate in the northwest coast region of northern BC. From the haunting historic poles in Gwaii Haanas and the early memorial totem poles of Mungo Martin to the legendary work of artists like Bill Reid, Robert Davidson, Norman Tait, and Dempsey Bob, these great works dominate the artistic and natural landscape of the north.

Northern British Columbia has a host of wonderful experiences to offer visitors to the area, from inns and resorts to guiding services, fishing lodges and adventure tours, as well as art galleries, museums, cultural centres and historic villages. The port of Prince Rupert on the west coast welcomes cruise ships which travel the Inside Passage to Alaska as well as ferries between Vancouver Island, the North Coast and the Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands). Additionally, VIA Rail operates a passenger rail service from the Canadian Rockies to the region’s cities of Prince George, Smithers, Terrace and Prince Rupert.

Visit Northern BC and experience the hospitality and culture of the Haida, Tsimshian, NisgaÂ’a, Tlingit, Kaska, Gitxsan, Dene Thah, Dunne-za and Carrier Sekani First Nations people.