travel tips

Tumbler Ridge, like most of British Columbia, observes Pacific Time year-round (UTC-7). Since March 2026, the province no longer changes clocks for daylight savings time.

Cell Service – Visitors love Tumbler Ridge’s wilderness as it allows them to unplug and relax. But you won’t be totally disconnected during your visit, we have good cell service in and around town. Service on highways 29W (Chetwynd); 52N (Dawson Creek); 52E (Boundary) is limited.

Please be aware that if you take the shortest route on your GPS, you could end up on a Forest Service Road – which is often not a good idea if you’re driving a car as not all FSRs are well maintained (especially during winter months). Stick to Hwy 29W and/or 52N. Be mindful of 52E, this route is partially gravelled as well. Check the Drive BC website for current road reports.

Make sure you fuel up (both gas and food) before touring some of our wondrous wilderness sites. Apart from the gas station in Tumbler Ridge, the only other gas stations are in Chetwynd (92kms) and Dawson Creek (117kms). There is also a Co-op card-lock in town, but you must go through the orientation if you are not already a member.

The Tumbler Ridge Visitor Information Centre is equipped with a level two Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station that is accessible to most Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) and Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV).

Fishers and hunters must have the proper licenses before venturing out. You can purchase licenses online through the Province of British Columbia site, check this site often to make sure you are adhering to all requirements. www2.gov.bc.ca

Call the Grizzly Valley Saddle Club at (250) 242-1448 to book your ‘horsey hotel’!

“Bear” in mind, we’re in the wilderness here. Consider travelling in groups, make noise, carry bear bangers/bells and bear spray (and know how to use it). Be aware of your surroundings as wildlife is plentiful. Please pack out what you pack in.

You’re in the mountains where conditions can change rapidly and without warning. The Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark has vast expanses of untamed wilderness with areas of difficult terrain that have limited signage. Please go prepared for the unexpected, let the Visitor Centre staff know your plans and get home safely! Also, check the weather forecast beforehand.