Of all the places in BC, I never imagined writing a post on the Hazeltons. And yes, that is supposed to be pluralised because there is both New Hazelton and Old Hazelton (and a few more communities).
Cozied in at the junction of the Skeena and the Bulkley River, New & Old Hazelton is a rewarding stop for any weary traveller on road trip of British Columbia regardless of whether you’re traveling to Prince Rupert or headed to Alaska. I love stretching my legs, taking in the history, and enjoying the geographical features of this region. Don’t just drive-thru, and don’t just stop at the Visitor Information Center for a restroom break, take a tiny detour. You won’t regret it.
Couple Things to Do in New & Old Hazelton, BC
Don’t get too excited about my list because there’s not much on it, but a few of these stops are well worth the detour. I’ve been to Hazelton, BC a couple of times. First with my previous job, and second as a curious explorer including on our recent trip to Prince Rupert when we took on the Nisga’a Memorial Lava Beds.
- ‘Ksan Heritage Village
- The ten-minute detour from the highway is worth the stop for a leg stretch and stop for lunch (bring your own) amongst the traditional ‘Ksan historical Village and totem poles. This small historical site is unbelievably fascinating.
- If you take the tour, I would advise against bringing small children (not all historical sites are great for children). The village buildings are small and filled with artefacts not suitable for young toddlers. I did the tour by myself with 2 under 2 and I missed out so much. I would love to go again and listen, look, and experience these magnificent buildings again.
- The ten-minute detour from the highway is worth the stop for a leg stretch and stop for lunch (bring your own) amongst the traditional ‘Ksan historical Village and totem poles. This small historical site is unbelievably fascinating.
- Hagwilget Bridge
- Supposedly it’s a 2-way bridge (says my Aunt), but you’d be crazy to cross it with another full sized vehicle coming at you.
- The bridge that leads to the K’san Heritage Village and the Village of Hazelton (Old Hazelton) is a single lane steel suspension bridge.
- Stops are available on either side of the bridge with informational signs on the side closest to New Hazelton and Highway 16 telling the history of the bridges that came before it.
- If you cross the bridge there is a parking lot a little ways down. Park, cross the street and you can wander up to the bridge along a trail. There is also an area with benches and views of the surrounding area.
- I prefer the view of the canyon from the side closest to Highway 16.
- If you cross the bridge there is a parking lot a little ways down. Park, cross the street and you can wander up to the bridge along a trail. There is also an area with benches and views of the surrounding area.
- Old Hazleton
- A dying town with not much left, Old Hazelton is a short drive around. If you have the time, find a spot to park and see what is open.
- New Hazleton
- Skeena Bakery
- Looking for lunch, a stop at the Skeena Bakery is a must in my books.
- This not for profit bakery provides employment opporutnities for people with disabilities.
- Always friendly, always delicious, and always hot coffee.
- Looking for lunch, a stop at the Skeena Bakery is a must in my books.
- Wetland Trail
- This short little trail loops around just past the Skeena Bakery.
- It’s mostly boardwalk, and its kind of a fun adventure with a toddler or young child along for the ride. Just make sure they don’t jump into the marsh.
Don’t bring a stroller.
- This short little trail loops around just past the Skeena Bakery.
- Playground
- If you want a quick play with kids, there’s a playground at the park on the right as soon as you come into town from Smithers (from the East on Highway 16).
- Skeena Bakery
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