Fort St John, British Columbia, nestled in the heart of the Peace River District, is a vibrant city brimming with history, outdoor adventures, and welcoming hospitality. Known as the oldest European-established settlement in BC and situated at kilometre 75 of the famed Alaska Highway, Fort St John offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and access to the stunning natural landscapes of Northern British Columbia. Whether you’re passing through on an epic road trip or planning an extended stay, finding the right accommodation and activities is key to enjoying all that Fort St John, BC has to offer.
Accommodation in Fort St John, BC
After a long day of exploring or driving, a comfortable place to rest is essential. Fort St John, BC provides a range of lodging options to suit different needs and budgets.
Hotels in Fort St John
For those seeking familiar comforts and amenities, Fort St John boasts reputable hotels like the Quality Inn Northern. This completely smoke-free hotel offers a comprehensive experience with an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and fitness center – perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Business travelers and event planners will appreciate the banquet and meeting rooms, alongside complimentary high-speed internet access. Dining is made easy with an on-site restaurant, and for evening leisure, Legends Lounge and Quality Liquor Store are conveniently located within the premises.
Another excellent choice is the Lakeview Inn & Suites, known for providing value and convenience. Guests can start their day right with a complimentary breakfast and maintain their fitness routines at the on-site fitness center. Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel ensures you stay connected during your visit to Fort St John, BC.
Camping in Fort St John, BC
Embrace the spirit of the Alaska Highway and the great outdoors with a camping experience near Fort St John. Rotary RV Park, located at km 81 of the Alaska Highway on the picturesque shores of Charlie Lake, is a highly recommended full-service RV park. It’s an ideal spot to park your RV and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Fort St John.
Best Things to Do in Fort St John, BC
Fort St John offers a diverse range of activities, catering to history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyone in between.
Delve into Local History and Culture
Immerse yourself in the rich past of the region at the Fort St. John North Peace Museum. Take a journey from the early native settlements to the arrival of pioneer homesteaders and the significant construction of the Alaska Highway in 1942. Interactive exhibits, including a tepee, trapper’s cabin, blacksmith shop, police barracks, and even a jail, bring history to life. Don’t forget to browse the museum gift shop for an excellent selection of local history books to further enrich your understanding of Fort St John’s heritage. The museum is open year-round, making it a great activity regardless of when you visit Fort St John, BC.
For a self-guided exploration, embark on the Pioneer Pathway Walking Tour. Starting on 100th Street across from Centennial Park, this tour unveils the stories of the people and places that shaped Fort St John’s identity. Historic panels with captivating photos and narratives are strategically placed throughout downtown, primarily along 100th Street. Pick up a map from the visitor center to guide your walk and discover the historical heart of Fort St John at your own pace.
Recreation and Leisure Activities
The Pomeroy Sports Centre is a premier recreation complex in Fort St John. It features two NHL-sized ice rinks and a remarkable indoor Olympic-sized speed skating oval – one of only four in North America. A 340-meter walking track is open to the public year-round and free of charge, perfect for staying active indoors. The versatile ice surfaces can also be transformed to host major indoor sports, cultural events, and tradeshows, making it a central hub of activity in Fort St John. Located at 9324 – 96 St, it’s easily accessible.
Experience local flavors and crafts at the Farmers Market, held every Saturday at Centennial Park from 9 am to 3 pm. Local vendors offer a variety of gifts and fresh food, providing a taste of the region and a chance to support local businesses in Fort St John, BC.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the Lone Wolf Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course with a driving range located in Taylor, just a short 15-minute drive south of Fort St John. The club also features a recently renovated restaurant open to the public, perfect for a post-game meal or relaxing evening.
Getting Around in Fort St John, BC
Navigating to and around Fort St John is straightforward. BC Bus North provides essential bus services connecting Fort St John to other communities in Northern BC. The service includes routes between Prince Rupert and Prince George, Prince George and Valemount, and Prince George and Dawson Creek-Fort St John, with varying frequencies. For those traveling further north, there’s also a weekly round-trip service from Fort Nelson to Dawson Creek-Fort St John. This service is crucial for those relying on public transportation to reach or travel from Fort St John, BC.
Fort St John, BC FAQs
Where is Fort St. John British Columbia located?
Fort St John is situated in the Peace River District of northeastern British Columbia, geographically closer to the Yukon border than southern BC. It’s also near the Alberta border, on the eastern side of BC. The Alaska Highway serves as the primary access route to Fort St John.
What is Fort St. John famous for?
Fort St John holds the distinction of being the largest town in the Peace River Regional District and the oldest European settlement in British Columbia, dating back to its establishment as a trading post by Sir Alexander Mackenzie in 1794. Positioned at kilometre 75 of the Alaska Highway, it’s a significant urban center between Dawson Creek and Delta Junction. Historically a vital fur trading post within Dane-zaa First Nation territory, the town’s location shifted several times before settling in its present location in 1928 due to economic factors.
Can you see the northern lights in Fort St. John, BC?
Yes, witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights is possible from Fort St John, BC, under optimal conditions. Dark, clear nights with solar flares or high solar activity, especially during a new moon and the spring and fall equinoxes, are ideal. To minimize light pollution, venturing slightly outside the city to areas like the trails and parks around Charlie Lake can enhance your aurora viewing experience.
Map of Fort St. John British Columbia
For a visual guide to the city, refer to this map of Fort St John British Columbia, highlighting the downtown area and the Alaska Highway’s passage through it. You’ll notice the concentration of hotels and restaurants near the Alaska Highway, accommodating travelers and larger vehicles common in this oil and gas exploration hub. While large service vehicles are prevalent, ample parking is available, including a large lot at the Pomeroy Sports Centre, which also houses the Visitor Center, providing a convenient starting point for your exploration of Fort St John, BC.
