Kitselas Canyon
National Historic Site

Developing Kitselas Canyon as one of the finest cultural tourism destinations in British Columbia
Community and Regional Issues
and Opportunities

The economy of the Terrace region is largely reliant upon commodity oriented forest products. The economy is fragile. It depends on offshore commodity prices and is affected by the most minor fluctuations in prices. A sound, incremental strategy for economic diversification is required. Tourism is key to this diversification. And to be successful, it must add a unique dimension to the natural beauty of the area. That dimension is the Aboriginal Cultural component, which builds on aboriginal history, lifestyle, land, customs and entertainment, spiritual values, arts and crafts.
Aboriginal tourism development in Canada has received a rising interest in Aboriginal tourism products over the past two decades. Most travelers want to visit "areas of outstanding scenery and high environmental quality" (Budtke, 2000).

The Outcome

The Kitselas Canyon Historic Site has the potential to add significantly to the economy without negatively affecting existing economic activities.

  • The Kitselas Canyon Project will provide benefits to both the Kitselas and the Regional economy.
  • Part-time and full-time employment will be created during and after construction.

Excursions by highway and rail have the potential to add to the economies of Terrace, Prince Rupert, and Kitimat in the hotel, restaurant, and retail outlets.


Designated Tours are existing for 2006

Official Opening is targeted for 2007



For additional Information concerning the Kitselas Canyon Development Project
Contact:
Web Bennett
Kitselas Treaty Office
(250) 635-8882 Ext. 231
Email: Web Bennett
Plans for the Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site include:
  1. A walking tour portraying the
    historic significance of the area.
  2. A museum of:
    • Kitselas history
    • Tsimshian history
    • Arts and crafts
    • Archaeological records
    • Riverboat era
    • Grand Trunk Railway
    • Logging in NW B.C.
  3. A riverboat tour through the Canyon. This will be a two or three hour boat trip with inspections of the petroglyphs on Ringbolt and Dry Islands.
  4. A walking tour of the Gitlaxdzawk Fortress area.
  5. Cultural activities, such as fish harvesting; food processing; traditional stories, songs, and dances. Additionally, tourists will be encouraged in a "hands on" cultural experience.
  6. A Recreational Vehicle Campsite, adjacent to the Kleanza Creek Provincial Park, will be fully serviced with electrical, sewer and water connections.
  7. Visitor Information Centre with public washrooms.
  8. Carving and crafts workshops.
  9. Covered barbeque and resting area.
  10. Indoor and outdoor rostrums.
  11. Restaurant facilities
  12. A Hotel phased in at a later stage of the Project. The concept may include cabins modeled in the manner of mini-longhouses.