Map of Northern British Columbia

Description: This map shows cities, towns, villages, islands, rivers, lakes, highways, major roads, secondary roads, mountains ranges, and national parks in Northern British Columbia.

Description: This map shows cities, towns, rivers, lakes, islands, Trans-Canada highway, major roads, winter roads, railways, and national parks in Northern British Columbia.

Northern British Columbia: A Vast Wilderness Region

Northern British Columbia encompasses the upper half of Canada's westernmost province, characterized by dramatic mountain ranges, pristine forests, and rugged wilderness. This sparsely populated region extends from the Pacific Ocean eastward to the Rocky Mountains and shares borders with Alaska, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. The area represents approximately 70% of British Columbia's landmass but contains only about 15% of its population.

The climate in Northern British Columbia varies significantly between coastal and interior areas. While coastal regions experience milder temperatures and substantial rainfall due to Pacific Ocean influences, interior and northern areas face more severe winters with temperatures occasionally dropping below -40°C. This climatic diversity has shaped both the natural environment and human settlement patterns throughout the region.

Economy and Resources

The economy of Northern British Columbia traditionally revolves around natural resource extraction. Forestry remains the dominant industry, with numerous sawmills and pulp operations throughout the region. Mining operations extract coal, copper, gold, and natural gas, particularly in the northeast where the Peace River region contains significant energy reserves. Tourism has grown increasingly important to the regional economy, with visitors drawn to world-class fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports opportunities.

Prince George, with approximately 75,000 residents, serves as the unofficial "capital" of Northern British Columbia and functions as its primary service and transportation hub. The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), established in 1990 and located in Prince George, specializes in environmental research and has been nicknamed "Canada's Green University." Other significant communities include Prince Rupert, Terrace, Fort St. John, and Kitimat.

Cultural Heritage

Indigenous peoples have inhabited Northern British Columbia for millennia, with major First Nations groups including the Haida, Tsimshian, Gitxsan, Wet'suwet'en, and Carrier peoples. European exploration of the region began in the late 18th century, with Alexander Mackenzie becoming the first European to cross North America to the Pacific Ocean in 1793. The establishment of trading posts by the Northwest Company and Hudson's Bay Company cemented British presence in the area. The completion of transcontinental railway lines in the early 20th century opened new economic opportunities for northern communities and facilitated settlement.

Today, Northern British Columbia attracts visitors seeking authentic wilderness experiences. The Great Bear Rainforest, home to the rare white "spirit bear" (Kermode bear), represents one of the world's largest intact temperate rainforests. The region's diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife continue to define its unique character within Canada.