City walks meet mountain vibes thanks to new trail tune-ups
One of the best things about Terrace is how close the outdoors always feels. You don’t have to pack up for a long road trip to find great hikes — some of the best trails are right in the city. Sometimes, you just want to go for a quick walk that’s close to home but that still offers great views, a taste of the great outdoors and easy access. This summer saw lots of new improvements to some of Terrace’s best loved trails, and the development of a new trail that connects Howe Creek with the neighbourhood on the bench. Terrace’s favourite trails are looking better than ever — here’s what’s new.
Climb the New Eby Street Staircase
Terrace’s newest trail development weaves its way from Howe Creek trail up the bench (that’s what locals call the elevated neighbourhood looking over the core of the city) to the foot of Benner St. This wide, natural-style staircase weaves its way uphill with a mix of sturdy wooden steps and dirt trail, connecting to Howe Creek Trail. It’s a great leg workout, a quick way to link trails, and a fun new addition to Terrace’s hiking network.
Explore more at Ferry Island
Ferry Island has always been a favourite for easy walks, riverside views, and the challenge of looking for the hidden faces carved in the trees. Now, thanks to trail improvements, it’s even more welcoming and accessible. Pathways have been widened and smoothed to reduce bumps and roots. Upgrades bridges make the trails easier to navigate, and new art features are building on the park’s reputation as a destination for art in wild places.
Keep an eye out for the Western Toad sculpture near the frog pond made by Steve Rogers, a colourful new mural on the shower/washroom building by the playground painted by artist Casey Braam, and new signage and carvings by JJ’s Woodart. Thanks to the Rotary Club of Terrace, the playground got a facelift and a few additions this last year, making it extra fun for the kiddos.
The Wolves: An Easier Hike to an Iconic View
The hike up to The Wolves — a striking metal wolfpack sculpture overlooking the Skeena River — is one of Terrace’s signature experiences. The view is spectacular and and it’s a surprisingly easy, and short hike to get there. This year’s trail upgrades on focused on separating hiking route to the lookout, from the traffic on the previously shared biking route. The new trail is safer, more gradual, wider and smoother underfoot, which means more people can enjoy the walk up. And really, it’s a 15-minute walk, max. Whem you get there, your prize is one of the most iconic views in the region: the old Skeena bridge curving its way over the Skeena River. Pack your camera – it’s worth every step!
Stroll the Xpilaxha trail to Kitsumkalum
Did you know that you can walk, ride, stroll or wheel yourself all the way from downtown Terrace to the Ts’ymsyen community of Kitsumkalum to the west? The Xpilaxha: Emma and Charles Nelson Trail (formerly the Millennium Trail) starts at Eby St. by the Chill ice cream shop at Eby Street and Highway 16, and runs 2 km west to Kitsumkalum.. It’s Terrace’s most accessible trail — a paved, smooth, wide trail that is dotted with beautiful trees and lit up at night for safety.
We love it for walking, jogging, skateboarding, biking, taking the dog for a walk, or taking the kids out in a stroller. In the fall, the trail is especially picturesque, with the trees along the route turning brilliant shades of gold and red and orange – pack your camera for a beautiful shot.
Get Out There
Hitting the trails around Terrace has never been easier. Whether you’re up for a heart-pumping climb, a family-friendly riverside loop or a short hike to one of the most photographed spots in town, one of our favourite parts about Terrace is that experiencing the outdoors is right on our doorstep.
Discover the Freedom of Accessible Adventure
Sometimes a walk in a beautiful place can seem out of reach when trails are a bit rough. Tourism Terrace offers a GRIT Freedom Chair for rent for anyone with mobility challenges. This all-terrain wheelchair makes it easier to roll over bumps, roots, and gravel, opening up more of Terrace’s beautiful trails to more people. Comfortable, sturdy, and designed for adventure, it helps everyone enjoy the natural beauty of our region.
Want to rent the GRIT Freedom chair or learn more about hiking in the Terrace area? Stop by the Visitor Centre to pick up one of our handy hiking maps or visit our website.
Blog by Tourism Terrace
