Fort Nelson, Chetwynd, Dawson Creek make top 50 small towns list

OAKVILLE, O.N. — Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary are just some of the big cities that Canadians consider for vacation getaways.

But Flight Network is putting the spotlight on small towns that are worth a visit. And, in B.C., Dawson Creek, Chetwynd and Fort Nelson made the list — along with Prince Rupert and Houston.

“With the Canadian dollar continuing to decrease, this list of 50 small towns in Canada would make a great option for a family, a couple or even a group of friends,” the blog post stated.

Flight Network says Chetwynd’s location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains makes it a ‘hotspot for rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, camping and hiking in summer and snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and other snow sports in winter.’

It also recognized the community’s chainsaw carvings, and ‘carefully designed trail system,’ designed for mountain biking and hiking.

According to Flight Network, Dawson Creek offers a ‘rich history,’ loaded with heritage and historic sites, as well as some of the original structures of the Alaska Highway — including the Kiskatinaw Bridge.

The city is also surrounded by provincial parks for visitors to check out.

Fort Nelson also got a nod for its connection to the history of the Alaska Highway, and its atmosphere.

“The area’s outdoor wonders and abundance of wildlife may be what draw you in, but it’s the friendly community that will make you want to come back every chance you get,” the post stated.

Houston and Prince Rupert are also northern B.C. municipalities. Houston is known as the Steelhead Capital of the world, and Prince Rupert for its waterfront tourist area known as Cow Bay.