The gateway to Peace River Country, Chetwynd lies in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It’s famed for its annual chainsaw carving festival and public artworks and is near Dawson Creek’s heritage railway museum.
Things to do in Chetwynd
Admire the intricate chainsaw carvings dotted throughout Chetwynd, most of which are created during the annual Chetwynd International Chainsaw Carving Championship. Get up close to artistic sculptures from artists as far away as Wales and Japan, with details so intricate it’s hard to believe they were created using a chainsaw.
Escape to the rugged surrounds of the Gwillim Lake Provincial Park, which is nestled in the Hart Foothills to the south of Chetwynd. Go canoeing on the scenic waters of Gwillim Lake or hike through the white spruce and paper birch forests before ascending through alpine meadows to take in the panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.
Don’t miss the Moberly Lake Provincial Park, which hugs the southern shore of Moberly Lake. Learn about the native flora and fauna at the interpretation kiosk or fish for lake trout and northern pike, then take in a beautiful sunset over the lake.
Make a day trip to Dawson Creek and its Northern Alberta Railway Park, which centres around a railway station dating back to 1931. Learn about the historical legacy of the Northern Alberta Railway and visit the nearby Dawson Creek Art Gallery to admire the works by local artists.
Getting around Chetwynd
Chetwynd is around one hour’s drive from Dawson Creek Airport, which has regular flight connections to Prince George, Vancouver and Calgary. The town is compact enough to explore on foot, but having your own vehicle is best for accessing the surrounding sights.