Fort George Canyon Park is a 178 hectare day-use park in two parcels on either side of the Fraser River south of Prince George. BC Parks says public recreation and trail access are available on the west side of the river.
The park protects a historic winch site used by paddle-wheeled boats, a related portage, a native fishing site, and a popular hiking trail.
Fort George Canyon combines Fraser River history, hiking, canyon viewpoints, fishing, and winter trail use. Before 1914, the Fraser River was the highway through this part of British Columbia, and Fort George Canyon was a dangerous obstacle for sternwheelers because of whirlpools and jagged rock near the surface.
A 4.8 kilometre trail reaches the west side of the river from the West Lake Road area. Interpretive signs along the trail outline ecosystem features, and canyon views can be seen from the plateau. The park is not road or trail accessible from the east side, and there is no access from Red Rock Road East.
The Fraser River is both a Canadian Heritage River and a Provincial Heritage River. The park is a salmon migration corridor and supports white sturgeon and many other fish species.
Plan around the 4.8 kilometre hiking trail, interpretive signs, Fraser River canyon views, sternwheeler winch-site history, fishing with the required licence, wildlife viewing, roadway cycling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and seasonal hunting.
Bring drinking water and water treatment. Access the park only from Highway 16 West via Blackwater Road, keep pets out of unsuitable backcountry areas, and expect unmaintained winter trails.
