The Highways to History Route

Combine the lure of the Hart Highway and legendary Alaska Highway to travel through northeastern BC. There is stunning scenery, historic towns with many breakpoints. Plan your tour to include legends, landscapes and heritage.

Leaving Prince George, the Hart Highway #97 goes through rolling hills, forests and past intermittent lakes. The communities of Bear and McLeod Lake are en route before arriving at Mackenzie Junction. For Mackenzie See Side Trips.

The “Hart” heads into the mountains through the Pine Pass, and then follows the Pine River into Chetwynd, here you’ve made it to “Peace River Country”. It’s a picturesque drive onwards to Dawson Creek, BC. The engineering marvel the Alaska Highway begins here at Mile “0” in the centre of town. Dawson Creek serves as a hub for Side Trips to neighbouring towns of Pouce Coupe, Tumbler Ridge and Hudson’s Hope.

Further on Taylor overlooks the “mighty” Peace River. It’s a short drive to the “energetic city” of Fort St. John. The drive north is wide open, paved and includes numerous river valleys and mountain vistas before arriving in Fort Nelson. For Fort Liard, NWT See Side Trips.

From Fort Nelson climb to Steamboat, the road has sharp corners, dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. Pass Summit Lake the highest elevation on the highway, cut through Stone Mountain Park and head to Toad River. The road hugs the shore of jade-coloured Muncho Lake the “jewel of the north” and reaches the Liard River Hot Springs, a must stop!

The highway heads northwest to the Yukon border. Upon leaving BC, though not for the last time, it is a short distance to Watson Lake. The highway arrives at Jake’s Corner (73km before Whitehorse) from there it’s worthwhile to take the Side Trip to Atlin.

Side Trips

To Mackenzie on Highway #39 visit here for outdoor recreation opportunities, on many lakes and trails. Winter activities include snowmobiling and cross country skiing.

To Hudson’s Hope, on Highway #29 N. Visit the historic community celebrating its bi-centennial in 2005! There is road access to the W.A.C. Bennett Dam and Williston Lake.

To Tumbler Ridge on Highway #29 S. Visit BC’s youngest community and the newly discovered “Dino Attractions”. A visit to Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Park is a must do!

To Pouce Coupe on Highway #2, visit the Regional Museum. Enjoy a picnic at the Pouce Coupe Regional Park.

To Fort Liard NWT and the Deh Cho Connection take the Liard Highway #77, 27 km past Fort Nelson. It’s a great experience on a gravel road with few facilities, be prepared!

To Atlin from the Alaska Highway, take Highway #7 S. Travel down the good, mostly gravel road. Explore this remote community that has recreated itself as an artist retreat.