One of B.C.’s most historic and scenic areas lies in this preserved 19th-century village

Who’s ready to step back in time to the 19th century? Considered one of the most historic and scenic areas in B.C., the Hazeltons are a pair of communities in the Skeena region near Terrace and surrounded by the seven spectacular mountain peaks at Seven Sisters Provincial Park.

Ancient Village of Gitanmaax

The Village of Hazelton — or “Old Hazelton” — is steeped in over 8,000 years of Gitxsan heritage. This all comes together in the ancient village of Gitanmaax, according to the village’s website.

Named for the hazel trees that once sprinkled the flats of the Gitksan village of Gitanmaax, Hazelton is known for its rich Indigenous history and meandering ancient trails.

Here, visitors can embark on a self-guided “Hands of History” driving tour past markers of important people, historical events, and landmarks in the Upper Skeena region.

The nearby ‘Ksan Historical Village, Campground, and Museum stands 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 continued to flourish as a centre for navigation and trade in the area.

Visitors can take in the beautiful sights and history from the Hagwilget Canyon Bridge, which was first built from wood and fire to connect the inland First Nations with the coastal First Nations.

Today, the single-lane suspension bridge is surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, situated between Hazeltons Old and New.

New Hazelton

Ready to explore the area’s local shops, restaurants, and accommodations? You’ll find it all in The District of New Hazelton – which has become a sort of Mecca for wilderness enthusiasts.

Situated a few kilometres from the village of ‘Ksan and Historic Old Hazelton, New Hazelton also offers visitors the chance to explore a variety of trails, including the short but sweet Lookout/Waterfall Trail. 

This trail leads visitors through a lush forest to a cascading waterfall, continuing to a scenic lookout point.

If you’re looking to step back into the past and learn more about B.C.’s First Nations history, this is the perfect road trip destination to bookmark.

Hazelton

How to get there: Drive 13 and a half hours from Vancouver via Cariboo Highway/BC-97 N and Yellowhead Highway W/BC-16 W. Or, fly 90 minutes over the Coastal Mountains to Smithers or Terrace, B.C. and drive to the Hazeltons.

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