How to get to Prince George

Prince George is the largest city in the northern part of British Columbia in Canada, perfectly combining urban comfort with proximity to pristine nature. When planning a trip to Prince George, travelers can take advantage of a developed transport network, including regular flights, railways, and scenic highways. We have gathered current information on how to get to Prince George so that your journey begins easily and pleasantly.

The fastest way to reach the destination is by air. The city is served by its own Prince George Airport (YXS), located just a 15-minute drive from the center. It is an important transport hub receiving flights from across the country and abroad.

Direct flights to Prince George are regularly operated from major cities in Canada, most often with a convenient transfer in Vancouver, Calgary, or Edmonton. Upon arrival, travelers can use taxi services, rent a car, or book a private transfer to reach their hotel comfortably.

Traveling by train to Prince George is an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty of the region's wildlife from the window of a comfortable carriage. The city is a key stop on the scenic route of the national railway company VIA Rail, connecting the Canadian Rockies with the Pacific coast.

Tourists can take the train running between Jasper and Prince Rupert. This route is famous for its views of the mountains, forests, and rivers of British Columbia. A train journey across Canada will be a true adventure for lovers of relaxing holidays and photography, and the railway station in Prince George will allow you to conveniently begin exploring the city immediately after arrival.

Bus services connect Prince George with neighboring cities, turning the trip into a scenic excursion along the roads of British Columbia. Travelers often choose the convenient route from the city of Quesnel, covering about 120 kilometers in just an hour and a half, or depart from Williams Lake, a journey that takes approximately three hours for a distance of 240 kilometers.

For those ready for a longer journey, there is an option to travel from the remote Anahim Lake. This path, passing through wild and beautiful territories, will require more time but allows you to fully enjoy the changing landscapes of western Canada from the window of a comfortable bus.

A road trip to Prince George is a real adventure, as the city is strategically located at the intersection of two main transport arteries of the region: Highway 16 (known as the Yellowhead) and Highway 97. Thanks to this, it is convenient to get to the city from any direction, enjoying quality roads and magnificent views.

Travelers departing from Vancouver can drive through the center of British Columbia along Highway 97; this route of about 780 kilometers will take approximately 9 hours. Another scenic option is a trip from the east, from Edmonton. This path runs through the famous Rocky Mountains and Jasper along Highway 16. The road from Jasper to Prince George will take only about 4 hours, allowing tourists to combine a visit to national parks with a visit to the northern capital of the province.

To ensure your trip to Prince George passes as comfortably as possible and without surprises, it is worth considering a few important nuances of life in Northern British Columbia in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you enjoy traveling around this hospitable city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather here can be changeable. In winter (from November to March), a very warm jacket, thermal underwear, a hat, and non-slip footwear are mandatory, as frosts can be severe. In summer, layered clothing is useful: it can be warm during the day, while evenings often bring coolness.
2. Transport: Although BC Transit buses operate in the city, the schedule may not be very frequent, especially on weekends. For complete freedom of movement and to visit natural attractions in the surrounding areas, renting a car is highly recommended.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from supermarkets to small coffee shops. It is worth having a small amount of cash with you for visiting farmers' markets or for tips, which usually amount to 15–20% of the bill in restaurants.
4. Health and Safety: The city is safe and family-friendly, but when going out into nature, remember about wildlife. Bears and moose inhabit the surroundings, so study the rules of behavior when encountering them ("Bear Aware"). Medicine in Canada is of a high standard but very expensive for tourists without insurance — be sure to arrange a policy in advance.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is English. Locals speak in a friendly and clear manner, but knowledge of basic phrases will be necessary, as staff speaking other languages are rarely encountered.
6. Local Etiquette: Canadians are famous for their politeness. It is customary here to greet bus drivers and shop assistants, hold doors for those following behind, and respect queues. Loud conversations in public places are not encouraged.
7. What to Avoid: Do not underestimate distances and road conditions in winter. If you plan a long car trip during the cold season, ensure you have winter tires and an emergency kit. Also, strictly avoid feeding wild animals — this is dangerous and punishable by fines.
8. Additional Tip: If your trip falls in summer, be sure to stock up on high-quality insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be very active in wooded areas. And in winter, don't forget to look at the sky: on clear nights, you can see the stunning Northern Lights here.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday difficulties and focus on the main thing — exploring the unique nature and atmosphere of this northern corner, feeling confident and safe.