Four distinctive roadside attractions in northern British Columbia span four different centuries. Selected from over 300 submissions province-wide, these final four attractions north of Williams Lake showcase the province’s diversity and evolution.

In the 18th century, a volcanic eruption in the Nass Valley led to the creation of lava beds in Nisga’a territory along Highway 113. This event, which resulted in the loss of approximately 2,000 lives, profoundly altered both the people and the landscape. Justina Moore, the education and programs director at the Nisga’a Museum, emphasized the historical significance of this site, blending Western science with Indigenous oral traditions.

Moving to the 19th century, the discovery of gold in a region east of Quesnel transformed the area as thousands of miners flocked to stake their claims, with the most significant finding credited to an Englishman named Billy Barker. Stewart Cawood, the manager of public programming and media at Barkerville Historic Town, highlighted the town’s role in shaping the early settlement history of British Columbia.

Transitioning to the 20th century, Prince George became synonymous with the timber industry, symbolized by the iconic Mr. PG, a giant log man welcoming visitors to the city. Claire Thwaites, Prince George’s communications manager, described Mr. PG not just as a landmark but as a beloved symbol ingrained in the community’s identity.

In the 21st century, resource-dependent towns like Tumbler Ridge are exploring ways to diversify their economies and attract tourists through their natural wonders. Manda Maggs, the executive director of the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighted how the region’s extensive hiking trail network, made accessible by resource roads, has become a cornerstone of their tourism industry.

These narratives encapsulate British Columbia’s past, present, and future aspirations. However, only two of these attractions will advance to the next stage of the competition.

After determining the best small town, lake, and symbol, the Search for B.C.’s Best Roadside Attraction continues to engage CBC British Columbia readers in voting for the most iconic roadside site. The current matchups pit Mr. PG against the Tumbler Ridge Geopark and the Nisga’a Lava Beds against Barkerville.

Voting occurs weekly in August, with each region featured on specific days. A winner will be crowned from the final four contenders before Labour Day. Readers are encouraged to cast their votes before the Thursday deadline and support their favorite roadside attraction.