The intriguing town of Houston, B.C., might share the same name as its Texan counterpart, but it’s a far cry from a bustling metropolis. Instead, the quaint northern town offers an escape from city life, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and ridges, lush forests, and chains of alpine lakes. A visit here requires embracing a slower pace, but you’ll be rewarded in kind with plenty of outdoor adventures, local history, and quirky roadside attractions.
Whether it’s camping at the Shady Rest, Silverthorne Lake, or By-Mac campgrounds, a paddling adventure, or a fishing escapade, you’re guaranteed a front-row seat to some of B.C.’s greatest natural wonders.
How did Houston, B.C., get its name?
Its railway roots can be traced back to the days of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway in the early 20th century, when Houston was a tie-cutting centre for its construction.
Apparently, the name “Houston” came about after a 1910 contest and was a tribute to John Houston, a “colourful B.C. politician and newspaperman,” according to the Town’s website. Though he never lived in Houston, his name certainly left a mark on the growing community, which changed it from “Pleasant Valley.”
In March of 1957, Houston was officially incorporated as a village, though it remains on the unceded territory of the Wet’suwet’en People, who have lived here since time immemorial.
The forestry and mining industries continue to shape Houston’s future today, with 3,100 people calling the town home and another 1,000 in the surrounding rural areas. Known as the Steelhead Capital of the World, it bears an intriguing mix of industrial heritage set against pristine nature and a friendly community.
Visitors will find lots of space to explore via its hiking trails, iconic Nenikëkh/Nanika-Kidprice canoe route, and fresh winter tracks for Nordic skiers and snowmobilers come wintertime.
There are also a slew of local shops, restaurants, and recreation facilities to check out during your stay, according to Visit Houston.
For those who prefer to be inside, local shops, restaurants and recreation facilities tick the boxes. Here, life is honest and direct, and we welcome you to enjoy it.
Canada’s largest fishing rod
At 60 feet tall and 800 pounds heavy, Canada’s largest fishing rod stands as a beacon of Houston’s history. A must-visit during your stay or if you’re passing by.
The Town website explains that it all started as a napkin sketch by a local fly fisherman named Warner Jarvis. The community soon came together to donate hundreds of equipment and volunteer hours to turn his idea into a reality.
On May 5, 1990, the giant rod was carried by volunteers through the town to the spot it now resides in, beside the Visitor Centre. Residents even bought $5 “shares” of the new landmark, owning a centimetre of the rod.
Legendary fishing holes and pristine lakes
If you want to get some real fishing action, there’s no better place to head than the Morice River (Widzin Kwan), where steelhead fishing is considered legendary. Anglers from far and wide come to test their skills on the scenic lake, though it makes for a great lake day overall as well.
Speaking of beautiful lakes, the nearby Nenikëkh/Nanika-Kidprice Park is home to a chain of them, connected by portage trails. Picture the most beautiful alpine setting you can imagine, times one hundred.
The 18-metre drop at Nanika Falls cascades from Kidprice Lake into the Lower Nanika River, according to B.C. Parks.
Finally, there are whispers that the rugged slopes of China Knows Mountain — known as Tse Zhul (“rock neck”) in Witsuwit’en — are dusted with gold. Though the views alone are worth the journey.
How to get there: Drive 12 hours from Vancouver to Houston via Cariboo Highway/BC-97 N and Yellowhead Highway W/BC-16 W.
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