A 50-kilometre walk around the city of Prince George that begins and ends at Cottonwood Island Park on River Road. It winds in and around the city, connecting picturesque city parks, pleasant riverside trails, popular forest trails and the occasional opportunity for refreshment. Highlights include: Cottonwood Island Park; the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers; Heritage River Trail, Wilson Park and Fish Trap Island Park along the Nechako River; the entire 22-kilometre Cranbrook Hill Greenway Trail from the Otway Ski Centre to Highway 16; and the Gunn Trail above the cutbanks of the Fraser River.
The route can be done in either direction, but anticlockwise works best in terms of sun direction, the timing of strategically located coffee shops, and completing the hour-long walk down the Otway Road early in the day.
This is a very strenuous hike that requires endurance to complete, but well worth the effort. Remember to wear a good, comfortable pair of walking/trail shoes - your feet will thank-you later.
Generally good as expected from an urban walk, with seasonal snow and ice and occasional muddy sections in forested areas. Bring adequate water and snacks, clothing for changing weather conditions and anticipate possible wildlife encounters in forested areas.