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Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site

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KITSELAS CANYON NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Kitselas Canyon

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Kitselas canyon national historic site of canada.

• 1800 to 1900 (Significant)
• Kitselas Canyon  (Designation Name)
• Gitlaxdzok  (Historic Name)

Description of Historic Place

Located on the banks of the Skeena River on Kitselas Indian Reserve Number One, Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site of Canada is a dramatic natural setting richly endowed with significant cultural resources, such as petroglyphs, totem poles, culturally modified trees, and archaeological remains.

Heritage Value

Kitselas Canyon was designated a national historic site of Canada in 1972. Its reasons for designation are: it encompasses approximately 5000 years of Aboriginal history and is a place of major significance to the people now known as Tsimshian; in the 19th century, two permanent Tsimshian villages occupied a strategic position on the river, giving the people here control over the gateway between the coast and the interior, and therefore control of trade with the Hudson's Bay Company. The fact that Gitlaxdzok was a fortified village site makes it unique on the north coast; and, the cultural record is especially rich and has allowed detailed archaeological reconstruction of the culture history at Kitselas Canyon, including aspects of social change, the lasting relationship with people on the coast, vast trade networks, and changes in settlement patterns. This location has been settled by Aboriginal peoples for approximately 5000 years. The Canyon is located in a strategic position between the interior and the coast, and for that reason it played a pivotal role in the west coast fur trade. The wealth of surviving material at this site has provided unique and abundant insights into the cultural history of the Canyon. Source: Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, Minutes, December 2002.

Character-Defining Elements

Key elements contributing to the heritage value of this site include: the location of the site in the Kitselas Canyon of the Skeena River, its strategic value, dramatic natural setting and features; evidence of occupation, including 5 village sites, the petroglyphs, carved poles, cemeteries, grave markers, caches, and surface depressions; surface and below-ground archaeological remains associated with the reasons for designation.

Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Kitselas Canyon

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PARK AMENITIES & ACCESSIBILITY

Access Route

Goods & Services

Viewing Areas

Water Access

About this park.

Kitselas Canyon is located on the banks of the Skeena River on Kitselas Indian Reserve Number One. Designated a national historic site in 1972, it is a dramatic natural setting richly endowed with significant cultural resources, such as petroglyphs, totem poles, culturally modified trees and archeological remains. This location has been settled by Aboriginal peoples for approximately 5000 years. The Canyon is located in a strategic position between the interior and the coast, which helped it play a pivotal role in the west coast fur trade. Feature photo: Bubba55/flickr

Park Facilities & Accessibility Features

Download Full Accessibility Audit

Washroom at parking lot open during the summer season. Washroom has not been audited and its accessibility is unknown. Download Full Accessibility Audit

Staircase from trail to viewing area. Download Full Accessibility Audit

The trail is very wide and smooth, with low to moderate running slopes. The interpretive trail is wide and level and has sloped areas that do not exceed 5 degrees. Download Full Accessibility Audit

Park Photos

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Skeena Adventure

8 Days June 22 -29, 2024

$4699 per  person

Single add: $650  Triple deduct: $175

Own air deduct: $650

$250 Per Person Early Booking Discounts

Full Itinerary:

Day 1 – Saturday, June 22, 2024 - Home to Terrace

This morning fly to Terrace, BC where you go beyond the ordinary and get a taste of authentic local culture on the banks of the Skeena River at the Kitselas Canyon, a National Historic Site. Learn about Kitselas First Nations culture and history and see the only First Nations village on the Skeena River with remains of houses and totem poles from the 1800s. View petroglyphs, poles, culturally modified trees and archeological remains in an all-natural setting. This evening enjoy the camaraderie of your travel companions and Tour Director at dinner.  

Today’s dinner is included 

Day 2 – Sunday, June 23, 2024 - Terrace 

Today we travel north through Tsimshian Territory along the Kitsumkalum River towards the Nass Valley. You will see the results of a 250-year-old volcanic eruption and lava flow dominating the landscape that is central to the unique lives and culture of the Nisga’a people. Hear about the dramatic event that consumed thousands of Nisga’a citizens and forced them to relocate their villages to present day locations. Your knowledgeable guide will enlighten you on the cultural importance of the Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park and the Nisga’a treaty, the first modern-day treaty in BC.  There’s always a chance to encounter wildlife and even the elusive Kermode Bear! 

Today’s breakfast and lunch are included 

Day 3 – Monday, June 24, 2024 - Terrace to Prince Rupert 

After breakfast we take a scenic drive that curves along the Skeena River from Terrace to the port city of Prince Rupert. Visit the longest running cannery in the history of BC, the North Pacific Cannery.  In 1891, the company accounted for more than one quarter of British Columbia’s total salmon pack and was the foremost packer of sockeye salmon in the world. After lunch and a tour of the Cannery, we will continue to Prince Rupert where you can spend the evening at leisure. 

Day 4 – Tuesday, June 25, 2024 - Prince Rupert 

Today in a spirit of adventure we take a boat for a close encounter with Grizzlies in the wild. The Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary is home to North America’s highest concentrations of these magnificent animals in a natural environment. The stunning scenery as you sail up the coast to Khutzeymateen is just a bonus.  Look out for humpback whales, seals, the Northern Resident Orcas and what ever nature chooses to surprise you with all from the comfort of a fully covered heated boat. 

Day 5 – Wednesday, June 26, 2024 - Prince Rupert – “The Skeena” – Prince George 

Embark on a sublime journey on board a historic train, The Skeena.  From Prince Rupert at the mouth of the Skeena River into the wilderness of Jasper National Park, the rails wind through rivers teeming with salmon, lakes, farmlands, abandoned villages and train stations reminiscent of old western movies. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your seat and take it all in. On arrival in Prince George, a short transfer will take you to your hotel to refresh and rest overnight before continuing the rails tomorrow. 

Today’s breakfast and lunch are included  

Day 6 – Thursday, June 27, 2024 – Prince George to Jasper “The Skeena” 

As you board your waiting carriage to continue your rail journey, keep your binoculars and camera handy to capture the visually stunning ever-changing landscape. The train cuts through the Rockies and you will have great views of Mount Robson and Kathlyn Glacier. On arrival Jasper, stay in the heart of this charming mountain town in the wilderness of Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Day 7 – Friday, June 28, 2024 - Jasper 

After breakfast we travel by coach along the spectacular Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Ice Fields, the largest in the Rocky Mountains, for an unforgettable experience. Travel in the comfort of a snow coach to the ancient Athabasca Glacier and walk on ice that is as thick as the Eiffel tower is high. From ice fields we return to Jasper for a sky-high experience. The Jasper SkyTram whisks you up Whistlers Mountain to an elevation of 2,263 metres. With clouds beneath your feet, enjoy the magnificent views from the top. Tonight, join your newfound friends for a delicious farewell dinner. 

Today’s breakfast and dinner are included 

Day 8 – Saturday, June 29, 2024 - Jasper- (Edmonton) to Home 

This morning after breakfast we drive to Edmonton airport for your flight home with wonderful memories of your Skeena Adventure. Upon your return a transfer will be waiting to bring you back home with a lifetime of memories!  

Today’s breakfast is included 

What's Included

 ✓Pick up at your door (Greater Victoria or Vancouver)

✓Roundtrip airfare to/from Victoria or Vancouver

✓Airline baggage fees for one checked bag

✓ 2 Day Skeena Train 

✓All ground transportation on deluxe charter vehicle

✓The Kitselas Canyon

✓Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park 

✓North Pacific Cannery

✓Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary

✓Columbia Ice Fields

✓Jasper Skytram 

✓Luggage handling at hotels

✓All mandatory fees and taxes

✓Gratuities on included meals

✓Services of a professional Tour Director

✓Gratuities for Tour Director & Driver

Day 1-2: Terrace, BC 

Best Western Terrace Inn

Day 3-4:Prince Rupert, BC  

Highliner Hotel 

Day 5: Prince George, BC

Four Points by Sheraton  

Day 6-7:Jasper, AB

Forest Park Inn   

Tour Policies

Early Booking: A $250 early booking discount is offered off the first 10 seats booked and $100 is offered off the next 10 until Mar 22, 2024.

Deposit and Payment: A $400 deposit per person is required at booking or booking may be cancelled. Full payment is required by Apr 19, 2024

Airfare: Airfare has been included at our preferred group rate. For airfare, space should be reserved by Mar 22, 2024. After that date airfare at this rate may be limited or tour price with air may be higher. Should you wish to book your own flights, price will be reduced by $650.

Price Changes: In the event of significant changes in taxes or surcharges by suppliers or local government Mile Zero Tours reserves the right to increase price up until final payment is made.

Cancellation Policy: Full refund less $50 per person admin fee if cancelled before March 22, 2024, from March 22-April 19, 2024 non-refundable amount increases to $150. After April 19, 2024 only 35% is refundable and after May 23, 2024 only 15% is refundable. There are no refunds offered after June 08, 2024. We strongly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance as Mile Zero Tours cannot issue refunds, no matter the reason, beyond the scope of the above-mentioned policy . Terms of Travel: Please also review our Terms of Travel before booking.

Photo Credit:  Pixabay-RockyMountains

PDF of Itinerary

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Historical Sites

Discover the rich history of the northwest.

Visitors to Terrace can discover a sense of its past and present, with family-friendly opportunities to experience the historical and cultural roots of the area. Take a look back at Terrace’s history since 1950 at Heritage Park Museum or step back in time and learn about the culture and history of the Kitselas People at the Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site.

Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site

Nestled on the banks of the Skeena River sits Kitselas Canyon – a National Historic Site of Canada. The canyon has been an essential place for the Ts’msyen people for over 6,000 years. Its soaring rock outcroppings made this a strategic site to control trade between the coast and the interior. Learn about the historic villages and the cultural importance of the canyon. Guided tours are available.

Heritage Park Museum

Explore the the cabins and original buildings at Heritage Park Mueseum including eight authentic log structures, an artefact-storage shed, a wagon garage, a miniature replica school house, a blacksmith shop and an organic Heritage Garden. The Museum hosts special events throughout the year and also offers facility rentals and special programming.

George Little House

Terrace’s founder, George Little, arrived in 1905 and started a homestead on what would later become Terrace. The now-restored George Little House sits at the foot of Kalum Street, where it greets train passengers as the VIA Rail Station. The house is also home to the Fix Cafe – stop in for a coffee while exploring downtown Terrace.

George Little Park

In the heart of Terrace sits George Little Park – where the community comes together for festivals, special events, and summertime farmer’s markets and is a place to relax and visit.  Families love the playground, spray park and outdoor fitness equipment. The Terrace Public Library anchors the park, and the Terrace Art Gallery offers easy access to all downtown amenities.

The Old Skeena Bridge

The Old Skeena Bridge is an historical feat of engineering that spans the Skeena River and the CN railway line. The recently updated pedestrian walkway has viewing platforms overlooking the rock outcroppings and sandy beaches below. Opened in 1925, it is a critical piece of transportation infrastructure.

The Kitsumgallum Cemetery

Here rests many of Terrace;s pioneer ancestors including George Little and his family. The Kitsumgallum Cemetery sits at the top of the first hill on Kalum Lake Drive. Established in 1909, the cemetery is a significant historic site that acts as a register for genealogies.

The Kwinitsa Foreman’s Residence & Grand Truck Pathway

The Kwinitsa Foreman’s Residence was home to a succession of foremen who worked at CN Railway’s Kwinitsa station supporting the rail line between Terrace and Prince Rupert. It’s now home to the office for My Mountain Coop/Shames Mountain and in the summertime, people love to get some tasty treats at Chill Ice Cream Shop.  From the Kwinitsa Foreman’s Residence, go for a stroll on The Grand Trunk PathwayThis paved walkway is perfect fo walking, jogging, cycling or rollerblading; this paved pathway spans more than 5 km and goes all the way to the community of Kitsumkalum to the west. Opened in 2000, locals call it ‘The Millennium Trail’.

The Usk Pioneer Chapel

Visitors love to stop at the Usk Chapel – a charming little replica of a church that was destroyed in the great 1936 flood. Located approximately 22 km east of Terrace along Highway 16 the tiny little chapel is picture-perfect.  While you’re there, take a ride on the Usk Ferry, a rare reaction-powered ferry that spans the Skeena River to the small community of Usk.

Terrace’s history is rooted in the forestry industry and Big Bertha is an example of just how big logging equipment needed to be to harvest the giant trees here. This 50-ton portable spar pole holder was designed to move logs on a logging site – one of only four that were built and used in North America. It’s on Highway 16, directly across from the Terrace Visitor Centre.

Upcoming Events

From live music to theatre, sports and the arts, Terrace has a lot going on! Check out our event listings below.

Coming Soon

Explore the Region

From exciting outdoor adventures to discovering arts and culture, Terrace offers so much to see and do.

• The Nisga’a Valley Tour
• The Kitselas Canyon Tour
• The Tall Totems Tour
• The Glacier Tour
• The Historic Terrace Tour
• Customize your own North-west BC tour
• Trip Reviews
• Nisga’a
• Kitsumkalum
• Kermodei Bear
• Links & Events

With over 30 years of experience living and working in the Northwest region, Split Mountain offers educational and entertaining package tours that will make Terrace and the north-west the highlight of your vacation. The coastal mountains, rivers, diverse communities, aboriginal cultural activities provide a unique experience that the whole family will enjoy.

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Based in Terrace, British Columbia, Canada, Split Mountain offers an array of fully guided tours that may be customized to your interests and special requirements.  Learn more about our tours .

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• Itineraries
• Know Before You Go

Nisga’a Lands

Indigenous culture & history along nisga’a highway 113.

At nearly 100 kilometres, Highway 113 is shorter in length to the region’s other routes, but no less spectacular. As you head north from Terrace into Nisga’a Lands, also known as the Nass Valley and home to the Nisga’a people, you’ll bear witness to the ancient and energizing forces of this part of the Northwest. Otherworldly volcanic lava fields, the aquamarine K’alii-askim Lisims (Nass River), sacred and snow-capped mountains, sunlit alpine meadows, natural hot springs, and evidence of thousands of years of Nisga’a history and culture are all found within a few hours’ drive.

Plan Your Trip

This out and back route takes you along Highway 113 and forks at the junction of Nass Road, where to the west you can visit the Nisga’a communities of Gitwinksihlkw, Laxgalts’ap, and Gingolx, and to the northeast, Gitlaxt’aamiks. From Gitlaxt’aamiks, you can continue along the well-graded Cranberry Connector gravel road, which links to the Stewart-Cassiar Highway just south of Stewart and the Meziadin Junction. Services and amenities are limited along this route; stock up on supplies and gas where available.

Note: Nisga’a Tourism offers a self-guided auto tour route, which will take you to see 18 points of interest via a well-marked map. Download it here .

Start your journey in Terrace. Before venturing north into Nisga’a Lands, detour 20 kilometres east of the city to Kitselas Canyon , a National Historic Site, which showcases four traditional longhouses from the 1800s. Wander the nature trail, which leads from the main site through moss-covered forest and past totems to a viewing platform above the Skeena River. Don’t miss the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art at Coast Mountain College , located five minutes after the turnoff on Highway 113. Here you can see the emerging artwork of the next generation of Indigenous artists in action.

Rosswood and Kitsumkalum Lake

The rural community of Rosswood sits 37 kilometres from Terrace at the north end of Kitsumkalum Lake, a deep blue freshwater lake known for its excellent boating opportunities. Hike the 24-kilometres out and back trail on nearby Wesach Mountain, which will take you into the subalpine to see wildflowers and a stunning vista overlooking the long arm of Kitsumkalum Lake. Pad your supplies at the Rosswood General Store where you’ll find interesting snacks, grocery items and local products (don’t miss the Bulkley Valley Honey and Nass Valley Wild Medicine products), before hitting the road north. 

Anhluut’ukwsim Laxmihl Angwinga’asanskwhl Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park

It’s impossible to miss the otherworldly landscape of Anhluut’ukwsim Laxmihl Angwinga’asanskwhl Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park . The site of Canada’s last volcanic eruption, here fields of molten lava rock, now covered in varying shades of green and yellow lichen, sprawl for 23 kilometres along either side of the highway, contrasting with the blue-black, snow-capped peaks of the Nass Mountain Range beyond.

Overnight at the 16-site vehicle-accessible campground and spend a few days exploring the unique landscape. Guided and self-guided tours offer visitors the chance to hike through stunning old-growth forest en route to a viewpoint overlooking the crater (to protect this area of geological significance, public access is only via the guided tour). To cool off during your tour, visit Vetter Falls. To see the falls, walk the short 20-minute stroll (the trailhead sits just off the highway) to a platform overlooking the green-hued cascading water.

Gitlaxt’aamiks

Gitlaxt’aamiks is the capital of the Nisga’a Nation and the largest community in the Nass Valley. Take the turnoff northeast at the junction of Highway 113 and Nass Road and within 10 minutes, be in view of four pts’aans (totem poles) — each representing the four Nisga’a clans, Raven, Killer Whale, Eagle, and Wolf — that stand in front of the community centre. Swing by Big Poppa’s Pizza or refresh your snack supplies at the New Aiyansh Gas Bar. North of the village, Dragon Lakes is popular as a fishing, swimming and camping destination.

Be sure to stop in at the carving shed to see traditional pieces by master carver, Calvin McNeil. If you are lucky, you’ll catch Calvin in the midst of crafting his latest creation, or telling stories of the Nisga’a people to onlookers.

Gitwinksihlkw

From the junction, head west on Nass Road en route to Gitwinksihlkw. Located directly on the Nass River, this village is home to a foot-only suspension bridge that connects both sides of the river. For more than 400 years, this suspension bridge was the only access point to the village. Grab your camera and stroll across as you look for birds eyeing their dinner from the waters teeming with oolichan and other species of fish. Just west of the village, soak your driving muscles at the Hlgu Isgwit Hot Springs, a series of naturally spring-fed pools piped into round wooden tubs set on wooden decks in the quiet forest and accessed by a well-maintained boardwalk.

Laxgalts’ap

Laxgalts’ap is home to the Nisga’a Museum , a stunning wood and glass contemporary building inspired by the design of traditional Nisga’a longhouses. The nearly 1,000-square-metre museum contains important and exquisitely carved masks, bentwood boxes, headdresses, and other mostly repatriated works of art — acquired from Nisga’a people during the late 19th and 20th centuries in the aptly named “Ancestors Collection.” Don’t miss the fascinating history of the Nisga’a Treaty, told by oral recordings, documents, and paraphernalia, the first modern-day treaty to be signed in British Columbia and a historic moment of self-determination for the Nisga’a peoples.

Set in the scenic Nass Valley at the ocean’s edge, it’s no wonder this community is named the “Seafood Capital of the Nass”. Take a stroll around the village and admire the village’s totem poles and seaside trail, then walk to the community dock to see fishermen crabbing for Dungeness. Watch for eagles soaring above you as they dive for salmon, or wander the The Lookout Trail, which winds its way from sea level to the bluffs above, for a scenic viewpoint overlooking the village and ocean.

To explore the area’s rugged and salty shoreline up close, book a guided trip with Northern BC Jet Boat Tours , to adventure to nearby remote ghost towns, all accessible by water, now being reclaimed by nature. Back in town, grab some fish n’ chips from the storied seafood restaurant U See Food U Eat It and dine seaside from one of the picnic tables located along the waterfront path. In the morning, enjoy your coffee as you take in the spectacular views of the Nass River where it meets the Pacific Ocean from the B&B’s prime location on Front Street.

Keep Exploring

The three major highways (16, 37 and 113) offer views of changing terrains and plentiful wildlife as you pass through the region.

The mountains and rivers give life to the northwest and give many natural adventure options. The Kitimat, Skeena and Nass rivers are nestled amongst the Coast Mountains and offer an immersive wilderness experience.

The wintertime in the northwest takes on a different personality from the warmer seasons. Each community offers different on-piste, backcountry, and cross-country skiing options, and snowmobiling.

Quick links

• Nisga’a Nation
• Stewart-Cassiar
• The Hazeltons
• Prince Rupert
• Prince George
• Bulkley-Nechako

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We're hiring for Spring 2024!

If you are between 15 and 30, passionate about history and culture, and love working in the outdoors, consider applying to be a heritage interpreter for the 2024 season. Preference will be given to Kitselas members. Come join our team!

Email your resume to [email protected]

Fall 2023: winding down after a big season. The 2023 season has brought a lot of growth and change to Kitselas Canyon, both to the site itself and to our small organization. We are so grateful for all the friendly, curious, and engaged visitors we hosted this y ear. W e welcomed around 800 people to the Canyon this year — an astounding number! We are closing our gate for regular visitor traffic on Friday, October 20. We are working hard to upgrade our interpretive centre and walking trails in time for spring 2024. Stay tuned for updates!

We're making improvements!

When you visit the Kitselas Canyon t his season you may notice some workers and machines on site .

Some of our facilities and trails are being upgraded over the course of the season, to make your experience at the canyon even better.

Please make sure to follow any safety signage. Hav e questions? Ask one of our friendly employees.

We're hiring

We’re really excite to be hiring several youth this year who will be working as tour guides-in-training.

Come say hi to our new staff learning to become interpretive guides!