What is Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark,
and why should you visit?

Global Geoparks, which are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), are described as landscapes of geological significance, where visitors can touch the “memory of the Earth.” They are the geological DNA of a region, areas of fascinating terrain, complex ecosystems, and significant biodiversity that are worth preserving, visiting, and learning about. Tumbler Ridge received its UNESCO Global Geopark designation in 2014 and is only one of five in North America (all of which are in Canada).

Tumbler Ridge delivers on outdoor adventure, year-round. Take to the hiking and biking trails from spring to fall, or go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing in the winter months. Here are a few must-do activities for when you’re not roaming in the footsteps of dinosaurs.

• Hiking – From the geological wonders of Shipyard Titanic to mineral-streaked mountains at Windfall Lake, Tumbler Ridge hiking offers sweeping views and varied terrain. On a day hike, you can wander through rugged forest, visit a waterfall grotto, or find a fish fossil on the tallest mountain peak. There are also overnight and multi-day hikes in the area, including the Monkman Lake Trail in Monkman Park. Hiking in Tumbler Ridge is perfect for those looking for unique terrain embedded with the stories of deep time, away from the crowds.
• Mountain Biking – The Tumbler Ridge trail-building community maintains a network of multi-use cross-country biking trails, as well as a pump track. With a majority of blue and green-rated singletrack trails, Tumbler Ridge is perfect for beginner and intermediate mountain bike riders who want easy access from town.
• Jet Boat Tours – Wild River Adventure Tours is a small, family-run tour operator that offers guided hiking in the area, and jet boating tours up to the spectacular Kinuseo Falls. Their guided excursions are perfect for those looking for small groups and local knowledge with plenty of interesting tales along the way.
• Heli-Assisted Hiking and Sightseeing – Soar over the jaw-dropping Tumbler Ridge scenery and land on distant mountains with Ridge Heli Adventures. No need to break a sweat, but if you want to get the heart pumping, you can go for an alpine hike. This experience is perfect for those looking for scenic views with remote access.
• Cross-Country Skiing –  Once the snow flies, Tumbler Ridge turns into a winter haven. Cross-country skiing trails bring you through canyons, past frozen waterfalls, along flatter plateaus, and into steep ascents suitable for ski mountaineering. You can also plan a longer day trip out to Lost Haven Cabin. Nordic skiing in Tumbler Ridge is perfect for experiencing a true Canadian winter and rugged scenery.
• Ice Climbing – When the conditions are just right, you can ice climb in the “Waterfall Capital of the North.” From steep accents to easy climbs, there are a variety of ice-climbing routes for all levels, including Nesbitt’s Knee Falls, Bullmoose Falls, and Bergeron Falls. Head to the Tumbler Ridge Visitor Centre for more information and to book a local instructor. This experience is perfect for all ice climbing ability levels.
• Snowshoeing – Don your winter gear and snowshoe along Tumbler Ridge trails to waterfalls and viewpoints at Boulder Gardens, Babcock Falls, and the Shipyard Titanic Trail. Many of the cross-country trails are also snowshoeing routes, but be sure to avoid the groomed track. Snowshoeing here is perfect for all ability levels, including those who want to get out into more remote areas.