Romance your winter with a Smithers getaway

Posted: Wed. Jan. 31/24

Are you ready to up your romantic game this Valentine’s Day? Or any time this winter? The romantic winter getaway destination you’re looking for is Smithers, BC. We’re talking sleigh rides, snowshoeing, skating on mountain lakes, cozy cabin stays and for those looking to raise the blood pressure a little further, a little adventure on the ski slopes.

But what really sets Smithers apart? It’s a remote, gorgeous northern BC community full of character that really comes to life in the winter season. With none of the usual distractions, this is your chance to spend quality time with someone special.

Smithers winter getaway itinerary

Here’s your recipe for a romantic getaway to Smithers.

Day 1: marvel in the views

Your trip begins by passing through or over mountain ranges, which surround the town on all sides (coming either east or West, out of Vancouver or Edmonton). Air Canada offers regular flights out of Vancouver, and when the skies are clear, those views are unbeatable!

The convenient connection to mountain beauty is a clear win. Here's how Vancouver skier Kerri Hunter put it: “We rolled up for the flight in our long johns, winter boots and jackets, boarded the flight and went straight up the mountain not even 20 mins from the airport.”

Upon arrival, the first thing you'll want to do is take in your majestic surroundings.

Go wild skating on Smithers Lakes
You can stretch your legs after the drive while soaking up the mountain views, on a skate around one of the local lakes. Two of Smithers' closest lakes are cleared for skating by local volunteers using custom mini-Zambonis, just one example of the innate cool of Smithereens (as the locals are known).

A couple go skating on Seymour Lake.

Book into a Smithers Ski & Stay to make it easy, with package deals on your accommodations and ski adventures.

Dinner: grab a bite at one of the local faves—check out a list of recommendations in the "When You Go" section below.

DAY 2: snowshoe & ski Smithers

Morning: start your second day with a snowshoe, to ease your way into a day of adventure. You can take in the views at Lake Kathlyn, or if there's an inversion, head up to Hudson Bay Mountain.

Snowshoe above the clouds on an inversion day at Hudson Bay Mountain Resort.

Afternoon: ski at Hudson Bay Mountain Resort to get your hearts really racing. Tip: check out the apres at Whisky Jack's Lounge, which serves up local brews, poutine and awesome patio views of the peaks.

Apres in town: take your pick of one of two craft breweries, Bulkley Valley Brewing or Smithers Brewing

Get outdoors, get more connected, get more Zen.

Day 3: sleigh ride

With two days of adventure, take the chance to relax and spend some time relishing and reliving your adventures together.

Morning: seal the deal on your romance with a sleigh ride in the Bulkley Valley, at B&T Rides, where a true winter wonderland awaits.

Enter the winter wonderland of the Bulkley Valley, with a sleigh ride at B&T Rides.

Lunch: pop in to Two Sisters Cafe for a tasty, nourishing and hearty lunch to fuel afternoon pursuits.

Afternoon: take a breather and relax together! Wander the friendly streets of Smithers, enjoy a little shopping or retire back to the cabin to revel in comfort.

Offering everything from sleigh rides to snowshoeing, skating on mountain lakes and skiing above the clouds, Smithers is where winter truly comes alive. Whether it's for the love of snow or love of your life, make Smithers your next winter destination to create memories that last a lifetime with that special someone by your side.

When you go

getting to Smithers
Smithers is a four hour drive from Prince George via Highway 16W. Air Canada flies daily from Vancouver to Smithers.

places to stay in Smithers
Check out Smithers’ Ski and Stay packages for some amazing savings and experiences.

winter activities in Smithers
For more winter adventure ideas, check out this great list of winter activities and locations in Smithers.

& where to WIN...

where to eat in Smithers
NOIR Kitchen and Bar at the Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge - check out their famous bennies!

Two Sisters Cafe makes great coffee and nourishing, hearty fare like the Abundance Bowl that will make your belly happy.

Blue Water Sushi try the Japanese Street Pizza for a little something different (the pork belly pizza was my fave.)

Find more recommendations here for places to eat and drink in Smithers.