Telkwa: Rivers, Trails and History

Telkwa lies at the confluence of the salmon-bearing Bulkley River and the Telkwa River. Rivers, an extensive trail network and local history shape the options available in the area. When it snows, winter activities are also available; nearby Tyhee Lake Park offers more options in the surrounding area.

Rivers and Water Activities

The rivers in Telkwa are suited to fishing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing and rafting. The range of options combines fishing with several ways to spend time on the water: canoeing and kayaking are paddling activities, while tubing and rafting offer other ways to experience the river. You can therefore include the river in your travel plans as a place to fish or enjoy a range of water activities.

Trails and Historic Routes

Telkwa’s extensive trail network includes river, wetland and aspen forest ecosystems. Many trails also follow old telegraph and wagon routes, as well as roads from the pioneer era. Along some parts of the network, you’ll encounter both varied landscapes and traces of earlier travel routes. These two aspects complement each other, though not every individual trail connects all the ecosystems or historic routes.

A self-guided walking tour shares the history of the preserved buildings and the town in the early 20th century. It has a different focus from the trails: the buildings and the local history of that period take centre stage. If you’re interested in Telkwa’s architectural and historical heritage, this offers a distinct way to explore the town alongside its natural attractions.

Museum, Tours and Events

The Telkwa Museum is housed in a schoolhouse dating from the 1920s. Historical and educational presentations, as well as events, take place both at the museum and elsewhere, including at schools in the surrounding area. Specific program details may vary; if you’re planning to attend an event, check the date in advance.

Tours are offered at St. Stephen's Anglican Church. Check in advance whether a tour is available during your visit. The Telkwa BBQ takes place annually over Labour Day weekend and has been a Telkwa tradition for more than 100 years. If you’re planning your trip around it, check the specific event date, as the exact schedule may change.

Winter Activities and Nearby Tyhee Lake Park

When it snows, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are possible in Telkwa. The options include motorized and non-motorized winter activities; snowfall is the stated condition for them. The Telkwa Pass is an ATV route and adds another motorized activity to the mix.

In the vicinity of Telkwa, Tyhee Lake Park offers hiking, swimming, canoeing and fishing. Compared with the river activities in town, hiking and swimming are additional options specifically mentioned there; canoeing and fishing are available in both settings. When planning, you can distinguish between activities on Telkwa’s rivers and those at the nearby park.

Discover more destinations: Hanceville, Elkford, Wasa, Sparwood, Fraser Lake, Kleena Kleene

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