Named for the hazel trees that once sprinkled the flats of the Gitksan village of Gitanmaax, Hazelton, B.C., is known for its rich Indigenous history and meandering ancient trails, transporting visitors back centuries in time. One of the “most historic and scenic areas in B.C.,” the preserved 19th-century village is absolutely worth the trek across the province.
Over 8,000 years of history
The ancient village is part of the Hazeltons — a pair of communities surrounded by the seven mountain peaks at Seven Sisters Park.
“Standing beneath the longhouses at ‘Ksan, you step into a place where history, culture, and tradition are deeply woven into the land,” shares the Hazeltons Visitor Centre in a recent post. “This carefully preserved village shares the stories of the Gitxsan people through its carved poles, intricate design, and enduring presence along the Skeena River.”
With over 8,000 years of Gitxsan heritage, the village (AKA “Old Hazelton”) is part of a self-guided driving tour of the Upper Skeena region. The journey brings visitors to various markers of important people, historical events, and landmarks.
The ‘Ksan Historical Village, Campground and Museum doubles as a replicated ancient village, depicting what life was like in a Gitxsan community hundreds of years ago.
Old Hazelton
Established in 1866, the settlement of Old Hazelton was a centre for navigation and trade in the area. Visitors today can take in the beautiful sights and history from the Hagwilget Canyon Bridge, which was first built from wood and wire hundreds of years ago.
Today, the breathtaking mountain vistas surround the single-lane suspension bridge.
New Hazelton
The District of New Hazelton is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, consisting of wilderness trails and the bulk of the area’s local shops, restaurants, and accommodations.
Those looking for a scenic stroll can embark on the short but sweet Lookout/Waterfall Trail. This path takes you through a lush forest to a beautiful cascading waterfall. After 30 minutes, you’ll find a lookout point with views over New Hazelton, Two Mile, and the surrounding mountains.
Happy adventures!
How to get there: Drive 13 and a half hours via Cariboo Highway/BC-97 N hr 45 min and Yellowhead Highway W/BC-16 W, or fly 90 minutes over the Coastal Mountains to Smithers or Terrace, B.C.
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