Peace River: Canoeing the Wild Heart of Northern British Columbia

Why the Peace River Matters

The Peace River carves a broad valley across northeastern British Columbia, beginning in the Rocky Mountains and flowing east toward the Alberta border. Its scale—over 1,900 kilometres long—creates a unique transition zone between mountain, foothills, and prairie ecosystems. Visitors encounter steep shale cliffs, cottonwood islands, and clear side streams that support healthy populations of Arctic grayling, bull trout, and walleye.

Best Time to Visit

June through early September offers the most reliable water levels for paddling and the longest daylight. July and August bring warm afternoons ideal for swimming at gravel bars, while late August often produces spectacular northern lights once darkness returns. Spring runoff can make the river powerful and silty; winter travel is possible by snowmobile but requires local knowledge of ice conditions.

What to See and Do

Paddling and Boating

Multi-day canoe or raft trips between Hudson’s Hope and the Alberta border reveal remote campsites and changing scenery. Shorter outings are possible from boat launches near Taylor and Fort St. John. Jet-boat tours depart from several points and reach sections inaccessible by paddle.

Wildlife and Scenery

Look for elk on the valley slopes, bald eagles along the river, and moose in back channels. The Peace River Canyon above the W.A.C. Bennett Dam provides dramatic hiking on old construction roads now reclaimed by forest.

History and Culture

Visit the remains of Rocky Mountain Fort near Fort St. John and the interpretive centre at Hudson’s Hope to learn about the North West Company’s fur-trade route. Indigenous Dane-zaa and Cree communities maintain strong connections to the river; guided cultural tours are available through local operators.

Getting There

The river is most easily reached via the Alaska Highway. Fly into Fort St. John (YXJ) then drive 30–90 minutes to boat launches at Taylor, Clayhurst, or the Peace Island Park. Rental canoes and shuttles can be arranged in Fort St. John; self-sufficient travellers should carry extra fuel and spare parts.

Nearby Attractions

Combine a river trip with visits to the W.A.C. Bennett Dam visitor centre, the rolling hills of the Peace River Regional District, or the historic Alaska Highway segment toward Dawson Creek. The Muskwa-Kechika Management Area lies to the west for extended wilderness adventures.