If you look at it on a map, Prince George, the “basecamp to the North,” is pretty much right in the middle of British Columbia. To the east, about 4 hours by car, is the remarkable Mount Robson Provincial Park, the highest point of the Canadian Rockies. For lots of locals, this proximity to the Rocky Mountains is a huge bonus of living up here.

Closer to home, there are lots of provincial parks including and rec sites within an hour of Prince George, like Chun T’oh Whudujut/Ancient Forest Provincial Park and Purden Lake. The Goodsir Nature Park isn’t a provincial park but it is a must-see when the snow is gone. Made by one man over his lifetime, Goodsir Nature Park is a “living botanical museum” with well-maintained trails and interpretive signs to identify native plants and trees. When the snow finally starts to melt, locals can be found packing away their snow gear and dusting off their hiking boots, boats, and paddle boards. Popular summertime activities are lake days at one of the many public access beaches or a lazy float down the one of the rivers.

Being the largest city in the north, Prince George is something of a hot spot for bigger community events such as farmers’ markets, festivals, concerts, sporting events, and more, drawing people in from the surrounding smaller towns. Prince George might get a bad rap from southerners, but there really is a lot to get excited about here. I mean, the city has one of the last drive-in movie theatres in the province - who can say no to that? Every Saturday, summer and winter, the Prince George Farmers’ Market draws a crowd. We highly recommend browsing the farmers’ markets wherever you travel. It’s an excellent way to get a glimpse of the real culture and community of the city and directly support them!

Even in the coldest depths of winter there are ways to get out and enjoy yourselves. Prince George delivers recreation opportunities through community associations in each of the major neighbourhoods that offer recreational programming, activities and events. The volunteer-based community associations are able to offer low cost services, making them accessible for everyone. Who doesn’t want to go for a nice warm sauna and steam after a long day working through the darkest days of the year? And we definitely recommend checking out one of the 28 community outdoor ice rinks in Prince George! Strap on those skates, practice your skating skills, play a little hockey, and meet some locals. Other ways to stay active indoors include a climbing gym, multiple options to go bowling, or why not join a sports club? There are community-based clubs, open to all ages and abilities, for just about any sport you can imagine: kayaking, speed skating, swimming, hockey… the list goes on.

What some don’t expect to see in Prince George is such a thriving arts and culture scene. Live music and theatre are common popular events - and the cold doesn’t stop them! Coldsnap, Prince George’s winter music festival is a prime example. Held in late January or early February, a time when the cold and dark starts to take its toll, Coldsnap is a breath of fresh air with a week of events throughout town, featuring local and international music. The local stadium, CN Centre, books lots of talent that you might not expect to see up here. Think Ludacris, Paula Abdul, comedy shows… you never know who might make an appearance! The PG Playhouse is another great venue option for theatre, live music, and comedy.

Of course, we can’t talk about the community and culture of Prince George without an honourable mention toward Mr. PG, the city’s official mascot. Born in 1960, Mr. PG still welcomes visitors at the intersection of Highways 16 and 97 with his towering demeanor and warm smile. Mr. PG also helps promote community events and brings awareness to charitable causes by holding a promotional flag or illuminating him with various colours. You can even apply to book Mr. PG…