J29-Smithers Houston

66.00 km
628m gain
3.00 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
66.00
Distance
kilometres
628
Elevation Gain
metres
3.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

The J29 route is a classic point-to-point ride connecting the vibrant mountain town of Smithers to Houston, BC. Designed to prioritize scenic beauty and safety, the route typically deviates from the high-traffic Highway 16 in favor of quieter secondary roads. It winds through the pastoral Bulkley Valley, passing through the village of Telkwa and the rural farming communities of Quick and Walcott. Riders can expect rolling terrain with constant views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the Bulkley River. This segment is often a key stage for long-distance tourers (e.g., "Day 29" of a trans-continental trek) or a challenging training ride for local cyclists.

Leave No Trace

Please follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

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Getting There

Directions

The route begins in downtown Smithers, typically at Bovill Square or the Smithers Visitor Centre. From town, the path heads south toward Telkwa, often using Tatlow Road as a scenic alternative to the highway. After passing through Telkwa, the route continues southeast through the Quick and Walcott areas before eventually entering Houston from the west.

Parking

Smithers: Long-term parking is available at the Smithers Perimeter Trail parking lot (near the Bulkley River bridge) or at the Bulkley Valley Exhibition Grounds.

Houston: For those finishing or leaving a vehicle in Houston, the Houston Visitor Centre (home of the "World's Largest Fly Rod") or Steelhead Park offer convenient and visible parking areas.

Safety & Preparation

Variable Road Surfaces: While much of the route is paved, some backroad sections through Quick and Walcott may consist of well-graded gravel. A gravel bike or road bike with wider tires (28mm+) is recommended.

Highway 16 Traffic: Sections of the route may require riding on Highway 16. Use caution, as shoulders can be narrow and the highway is a major corridor for heavy commercial trucks.

Wildlife Activity: This region has a high density of Black and Grizzly Bears. Cyclists should make noise on descent and carry bear spray in an accessible holster.

Limited Services: Beyond the village of Telkwa, there are very few services for food or water until you reach Houston. Ensure you carry at least two liters of water and sufficient snacks.

GPX downloaded