Smithers has an extensive trail network that is well used by the community and attracts visitors from outside. Below is a brief description of the individual trails and maps, which, together, will enable trail users to plan their trail walks or explorations with greater confidence and comfort. Three sets of age-friendly maps are provided for each trail, meeting the needs of the trail users.
The Perimeter Trail Network is a signature outdoor feature in the Town of Smithers, offering residents and visitors a scenic 13-kilometre loop for walking, cycling, or other wheeled activities. The trail encircles the town, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and natural areas, and provides expansive views of Hudson Bay Mountain, open fields, and the Bulkley River. It follows the shores of the Bulkley River, Chicken Creek, and Kathlyn Creek, and connects to several community parks, including Riverside and Elks Parks. Designed for universal access, many sections of the Perimeter Trail feature wide, well-maintained surfaces, gentle grades, and clear wayfinding, making them suitable for mobility devices, strollers, adaptive bikes, and users of all ages and abilities. Benches and rest areas along the route provide convenient places to pause and enjoy the scenery. Whether for a short walk, a daily ride, or the full loop, the Perimeter Trail Network offers an accessible and rewarding outdoor experience, complete with mountain views.
Image
Perimeter Trail Network - PDF Map
Perimeter Trail Network GeoPdf
Perimeter Trail Network CVD Simulation PDFB) Dogwood Park Trail is a 210 m path within a community park in Smithers, running between the 2nd Avenue entrance and Birch Avenue. Designed for accessibility, the trail is wide, gently sloped, and surfaced with concrete, making it easy to navigate for people with mobility challenges and those pushing strollers.
The park includes open green space and recreational amenities such as a basketball court, supporting informal play, youth recreation, and everyday outdoor use. Dogwood Park serves as a local gathering space that encourages physical activity, social interaction, and community connection. Located within a residential area and connected to nearby walking routes, the park contributes to neighbourhood livability and forms part of Smithers’ broader parks and open space network.
Dogwood Park Trail CVD Simulation PDF
C) Golf Course Trail is located at the northern end of Railway Avenue, at the intersection of Zobnick Road and the CN Railway level crossing on Railway Avenue. The Trail is wide and mainly flat with the exception of a small section at the ‘elbow’ and a bridge over Kathlyn Creek. The 1135 m-long trail, runs parallel to the CN Rail Line until the elbow section, where it turns north and leads to Simcoe Loop Road. With views of the golf course and fences on either side, this short trail offers a safe, peaceful walk for dog walkers, joggers, and those just out for a stroll.
Golf Course Trail CVD Simulation PDF
D) Multi-Use Path (MUP) is a paved, easy-to-use route just over 3 kilometres long, designed to safely connect key destinations in the Town of Smithers. The path begins on Main Street near Central Park, the Central Park Building, and the museum, then winds through residential neighbourhoods down to the Bulkley River, where it connects with the Cycle 16 cycling route. A second arm of the MUP also extends along Princess Street up to Ranger Park, further expanding access to parks and neighbourhoods.
Built with universal access in mind, the MUP provides a smooth, flat, and well-lit corridor for pedestrians and wheeled users of all kinds — including cyclists, mobility devices, parents with strollers, and even roller skaters. Its separation from vehicle traffic makes it a comfortable and family-friendly option for everyday travel and recreation. With the connection to Cycle 16, users will enjoy a safe, accessible, and fully paved route linking downtown Smithers to the centre of Telkwa as the network is completed — proof that getting around can be both practical and fun (helmets encouraged, roller skates optional)
Multi-Use Path (MUP) CVD Simulation PDF
E) Northside Trail is a tranquil riverside path extending slightly more than 2 kilometres, linking the Perimeter Trail Network through the Riverside Trails. The route traces the Bulkley River before curving northeast to run parallel to Kathlyn Creek near their confluence. This picturesque environment provides a peaceful retreat near the town, featuring views of moving water, riparian vegetation, and seasonal colour changes. Renowned for its tranquil environment, Northside Trail features a natural soundscape of birdsong and the continuous flow of Kathlyn Creek as it approaches the Bulkley River. The predominantly level terrain is ideal for leisurely walks and nature observation, making it a preferred choice for individuals seeking a quiet, contemplative experience away from more frequented paths. The trail exemplifies how the most appealing aspects of Smithers are often accompanied by the sounds of the natural environment.
Northside TrailCVD Simulation PDF
F) Ranger Park Trail is located near the Riverside Trail and Northside Trails and connects back to the Perimeter Trail network via Victoria Drive. The Trail within the park is 225 m long along the flat top section by the Ranger Park building. The section that leads up from the Riverside Trail, parallel to Main Street, is very steep and challenging to those with mobility issues. The particularly steep section consists of steps leading to the plateau where the park lies and is therefore inaccessible to persons using mobility devices. However, with parking and a trailhead on 16th Avenue, accessing the park trail is easy for everyone who wants to enjoy the park's facilities.
Ranger Park is a welcoming green space in the Town of Smithers, perfect for outdoor play, picnics, and recreation. Featuring open lawns, a playground, and room to relax or play, it’s a favorite spot for families and visitors. A highlight of Ranger Park is the Ranger Park Disc Golf Course — a fun, free-to-play disc golf layout located right in the park. Known as one of the most northerly disc golf courses in British Columbia, it is listed on the Professional Disc Golf Association website and offers players of all skill levels a chance to enjoy a round surrounded by trees and open fairways. Bring your discs and try a round or make it your go-to outdoor activity for fresh air and friendly competition!
Ranger Park Trail CVD Simulation PDF
G) Riverside Trails follow the banks of the Bulkley River, offering pleasant walking routes, river access, and scenic enjoyment close to Smithers’ heart. The trail system begins at the Riverside Park Campground and extends to Rosenthal Road, where it connects directly to the larger Perimeter Trail Network. Along the way, visitors enjoy sweeping river views and shaded forest sections. There are frequent opportunities to pause and watch the water flow past. The Riverside Trails wind through a wooded corridor between residential neighbourhoods, Main Street, and the river. This creates a natural buffer that feels surprisingly quiet for its central location. Some interior forest trails include uneven terrain and steeper sections, which may be challenging for those with mobility limitations. However, the primary trails along the river and the connecting route to the Northside Trail are universally accessible. They feature wider paths and gentler grades. Whether you want a relaxing riverside stroll, wildlife viewing, or a key link in a longer trail adventure, the Riverside Trails offer front-row seats to one of Smithers’ most iconic landscapes. No raft required.
Riverside Trails CVD Simulation PDF
H) Willowvale Wetlands Loop Trail is a great place for nature lovers to explore a healthy wetland ecosystem in the Town of Smithers. This short, flat loop goes through marsh and willow areas that are home to many bird species, including waterfowl, songbirds, and seasonal migrants (e.g., ducks, red-winged blackbirds, sparrows, and warblers). According to eBird websites, 117 bird species have been recorded at Willowvale Wetlands. Signs along the trail help visitors identify wetland plants and learn more about why this landscape is important. The trail is built to be accessible for everyone. Its smooth surfaces and gentle slopes make it easy to use for people with mobility devices, strollers, or anyone who wants to walk. There are accessible picnic tables, benches, and leaning-rests at key viewpoints, so visitors can stop, watch wildlife, and enjoy the wetlands in comfort. It’s a quiet place that’s great for observing nature. Bring your binoculars and take your time—you might spot a heron or simply enjoy the peaceful sound
Willowvale Wetlands Loop Trail PDF Map
Willowvale Wetlands Loop Trail GeoPdf
Willowvale Wetlands Loop Trail CVD Simulation PDF
Credits: The maps above were created as part of the Age-friendly Wayfinding Project that the Town completed in December 2025.
Bulkley Drive Park, Bulkley Drive
Playground area appropriate for ages 2-8 years.
Image
Dogwood Park, Dan Hamhuis Way, off Toronto St.
Playground area appropriate for ages 5-12 years, basketball net.
Image
Heritage Park, corner of Highway 16 and Manitoba St.
All ages playground area, all ages skatepark, one softball field, one multi-use field and two small dog park areas.
Image
Ranger Park, 3736 16th Avenue
Disc golf course, walking trails, basketball net, preschool aged playground, and green space.
Image
Riverside Park, 3843 19th Avenue
Playground for ages 5-12, outhouses, walking trails (Perimeter Trail) and Riverside Municipal Campground.
Image
Smithers Fairgrounds, 2701 Pacific Street, corner of Tatlow Road and Pacific Street
The Town of Smithers owns a fantastic parcel of land, which is utilized by many groups from Smithers, the surrounding communities of the Bulkley Valley and from around the province. The Fall Fair Management Committee meets three times per year and oversees the booking requests and capital upgrades requests for the Town owned property.
License agreements with the Bulkley Valley Agricultural & Industrial Association, the Northern Saddle Club, and Lease agreement with the Bulkley Valley Bowmen (Archery Grounds) provide the opportunity for local groups to offer workshops, rodeos, training sessions, children's activities, and more.
The Smithers Fairgrounds are home to the Bulkley Valley Exhibition (Fall Fair), the Bulkley Valley Folk Music Festival (Midsummer Festival), the 3 in 1 Breed Show, and the Annual Archery Shoot. All of these events gather together thousands of participants and spectators from all over British Columbia and Western Canada.
Image
Turner Way Playground, Turner Way, in Willowvale Subdivision
Basketball net, all ages playground equipment.
Veteran's Peace Park, behind the Smithers Public Library, corner of Aldous St. and Railway Ave.
Green space and cenotaph.
Yorke-Hardy Park, Corner of Princess St. and 12th Ave
Playground for ages 5-12.
Chandler Park Soccer Fields, Corner of Vancouver St. and Third Ave.
All opening and closure dates of fields and parks are weather-dependent. We thank all users for respecting the fields by being mindful of the turf, cleaning up after themselves, and reporting any issues to the Town.
For information on booking the fields or schedules please contact recreation@smithers.ca or call 250-847-1600Three soccer fields are located within this park.
Image
Elks Fields, Corner of Railway Ave. and Pacific St.
Five softball fields, and an all-ages bike park.
Image
Heritage Park, Corner of Highway 16 and Manitoba St.
One softball field and one multi-use field.
Montreal Tennis Courts, Montreal Street (beside Smithers Secondary School)
Two tennis courts. Use is on a first-come, first serve basis.
Image
Bovill Square, Corner of Broadway Ave. and Main St.
Bovill Square was opened in August 2013. It is a public space owned and maintained by the Town of Smithers. It is meant to provide the local community a location for small- and medium-sized arts, music, and cultural performances and special events.
Please visit the Special Events page for more information on hosting events on Town of Smithers property.
Image
Photo Credit: Dan Mesec
Image
Field Service Request Form
All opening and closure dates of fields and parks is weather dependant each year.
The Town of Smithers looks after bookings for town-owned fields. All rentals require the following:
- Submission of a Facility Request Form
- Rental Fee's
- A minimum of $2 million dollars liability insurance is required on all bookings, listing the Town of Smithers as additionally insured. Depending on the nature of your booking/event, $5 million dollars might be required.
- Insurance can be secured through a local broker, or click here to quickly secure online
These items must be completed prior to stepping on the fields.
Need to submit your request or want to ask questions? Please contact recreation@smithers.ca.