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Smithers Perimeter Trail
Wednesday, July 9th, 2008 by GetawayBC.com
Looking for a getaway just steps away from down town Smithers? This 13-kilometre trail that links rivers, nature parks and neighbourhood streets is your answer. Walk, jog, mountain bike or ride horseback along the path that offers views of ducks and otter along the Bulkley River, Chicken Creek and Kathlyn Creek. Wildlife abounds in the many designated green spaces that the trail connects, like the Riverside and Elk parks. There are viewing benches at various stops along the path and some of the parks are equipped with outhouses and picnic tables for day trips.
Riverside Park is a notable segment of the trail, as the river offers a scenic highlight and varied terrain. Despite the increase in elevation at this point, the trail is classified as easy as it has many long, flat stretches like that along Railway Avenue and it is suitable for everyone.
The Perimeter Trail is mere moments away from down town Smithers, but since it avoids (except for two crossing points) Highway 16 that runs through the town, it feels like a father departure into the serene. There are access points and parking throughout the town, including on Riverside Campground Road, off of Main Street (just past the Hilltop Pub). There is also a map of the trail at this point. The section on the western side of Highway 16 follows residential streets. To avoid this paved leg of the trip, turn back at the north highway crossing and head back to the parking lot.;