HIKING IN STONE MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK © ABBY COOPER
With warmer weather upon us, it’s time to embrace outdoor adventures—and the Northern Rockies are the perfect place to begin. Tucked into northeastern British Columbia, this region is defined by dramatic mountains, jade-green lakes, and welcoming towns. The stretch of highway between Fort Nelson, B.C., and Watson Lake, YT, invites travellers into a landscape filled with adventure.
Nicknamed the “Serengeti of the North,” the region is renowned for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of wood bison, caribou, elk, bears, stone sheep, and countless bird species. Located within the Aurora Oval, this is also one of the best places to view the northern lights, particularly from fall through spring.
In summer, the long northern days make it possible to enjoy hiking, golfing, fishing, paddling, and backcountry exploring late into the evening. The Alaska Highway, a legacy of World War II, remains one of North America’s most iconic wilderness routes. Whether you’re road-tripping or venturing off the beaten path, the Northern Rockies are a destination like no other—alive with nature, history, and adventure.
Spring Into the Wild
The Alaska Highway winds through true animal territory—a northern wilderness where humans are the visitors. Here, wildlife has the right of way. Iconic species like the wood bison—the largest land mammal in North America—frequently share the road, and visitors should always maintain a respectful distance.
Spring and summer are ideal for spotting young wildlife, especially in the cooler mornings and evenings. One standout stop is Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, open year-round and known for its lush, warm-water ecosystem. This unique environment supports a range of species, including some found nowhere else.
The region also encompasses the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area (M-KMA), one of B.C.’s largest and most ecologically significant wilderness zones—roughly the size of Ireland. This globally important area protects diverse wildlife and ecosystems while honouring the cultures that call it home. Whether you stick to the highway or explore by hike, paddle, plane, or horse, adventure in the Northern Rockies is as wild as it is unforgettable.
Legacy Roads
The Alaska Highway is one of the world’s most storied roadways, built in just eight months during World War II to connect mainland America to Alaska. The feat was monumental, carried out under extreme weather and working conditions by thousands of soldiers and crews.
Today, the 2,237-kilometre highway stands as a living legacy, rich in history and natural beauty. From rugged mountains to wide-open vistas, the journey offers some of Canada’s most photogenic highway stretches. Be sure to pull over safely to snap photos, stretch your legs, and take in the views.
No matter the season, preparation is key. Carry the proper equipment, plan for changing weather, and visit the Fort Nelson Visitor Centre for up-to-date information and local tips. With so much to discover, give yourself time to stop, explore, and experience the northern wild.
Learn more at TourismNorthernRockies.ca
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The allure of the Northern Rockies will have you dreaming of your next trip. There are plenty of ways to keep you inspired and planning for an escape to this spectacular area in Northern BC.