Tumbler Ridge

Tumbler Ridge is BC’s youngest town. Built as an “instant town” in 1981, Tumbler Ridge was carved out of the wilderness in order to accommodate metallurgical (steel-making) coal mining activity in the area. Fascinating geology, an abundance of waterfalls and amazing dinosaur discoveries all played a part in Tumbler Ridge being designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2014.

Tumbler Ridge is a picturesque community, which is home of the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark. Discover year-round recreation opportunities to explore hiking trails, alpine vistas, sparkling waterfalls, and dinosaur trackways. In 2000, dinosaur tracks were discovered and that lead to a number of internationally significant prehistoric discoveries that date back 74-135 million years.

In 2017, British Columbia’s first dinosaur skull was discovered nearby and the area also boasts the only known tyrannosaur trackways in the world. Tumbler Ridge is also home to British Columbia’s first dinosaur bone beds, comprised of dozens of specimens, and countless other dinosaur tracks. The Dinosaur Discovery Gallery displays examples of these rare finds.

One of the area’s most famous attractions is Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Provincial Park. The falls are spectacular, and at 70 metres/230 ft. they are taller than Niagara Falls. They are located 60 km south of Tumbler Ridge, 48 km of which is on a gravel forest service road. Monkman Provincial Park has 20 dry campsites and a day-use area, just 3 km from Kinuseo Falls.

www.tumblerridge.ca

How to get to Tumbler Ridge

From Chetwynd: Take Highway 29 to accesses the town of Tumbler Ridge, 90 km south from the Hart Highway.

45 km south of the junction with the Hart Highway you will find Gwillim Lake Provincial Park with 50 campsites, water, picnic tables and firepits. There is excellent fishing, a boat launch and day use area.

From Dawson Creek: Take the Hart Highway west for 13 km. Turn south on Highway 52 N and drive 96 km to reach Tumbler Ridge.

Tumbler Ridge Visitor Center located at 265 Southgate St. 250-242-3123

www.tumblerridge.ca

Hotels in Tumbler Ridge

Tumbler Ridge Inn

A quiet and comfortable hotel nestled in the wilderness. This family ran Inn is located in the middle of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Amenities include free Wireless Internet, pet-friendly accommodations and Kitchenettes & Suites.

TR Hotel and Suites

TR Hotel and Suites have over 50 rooms ideal for a weekend getaway or a business trip. The spacious and comfortable apartment-sized suites reflect Western Canada’s character. Each suite has modern amenities such as a fully-furnished kitchen and wide-screen TV. Suites are open and relaxed, with a private balcony offering unbeatable views of Tumbler Ridge.

Trend Mountain Hotel & Conference Centre

The Trend Mountain Hotel & Conference Center. Amenities include pet-friendly rooms, complimentary wifi, a free continental breakfast, fitness center with hot tub, and Western Steakhouse restaurant.

 

Tumbler Ridge Camping

Monkman RV Park

Located right in the heart of Tumbler Ridge. The park has 55 full-serviced spaces with electrical and sewer hook-ups. Also includes laundry facilities, coin showers, picnic tables and playground.

Tumbler Ridge Golf Course Campground

There are 8 private RV Sites located right on the Tumbler Ridge Golf Course, with great views of the Murray River. Available seasonally.

Lions Flatbed Creek Campground

Flatbed campsite has 45 rustic campsites with fire pits, fire wood, picnic tables, hot showers, flush toilets and sani-station. There are also day use areas available. This is a great campground for the whole family as there is a playground and large field for games.

Gwillim Lake Provincial Park

Gwillim Lake is located midway between Tumbler Ridge and Chetwynd, in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. 50 vehicle/tent sites available. Great fishing, boat launch, day-use picnic tables, playground, firewood, backcountry campsites, water pump, pit toilets.

 

Things To Do in Tumbler Ridge

Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark

Tumbler Ridge has 1 of only 5 Global Geoparks in Canada. A UNESCO Global Geopark is an area recognized as having internationally significant geological heritage. Geoparks encourage people to connect with the land, whether through hiking trails, learning about mountain building, eating locally grown food, or celebrating the the people who have lived here for ages. The geology in a Geopark focuses on sites with interesting archaeology, wildlife, history, folklore and culture.

Tumbler Ridge Museum

The Tumbler Ridge Museum was founded in 2002 and the Dinosaur Discovery Gallery was opened in 2007. The Gallery showcases the region’s amazing palaeontological history! It also offers a Dinosaur Camp, where visitors can take field trips to fossil sites in the region.

Tumbler Ridge Golf Course

The Tumbler Ridge Golf Course is a scenic and challenging 9-hole course that can be enjoyed by both novice and experienced golfers. There is a pro shop, driving range, putting green and clubhouse. There is also 8 private camping spaces right on the course

Monkman Provincial Park

Monkman Park is located on the Kinuseo Falls Road, 60km south of Tumbler Ridge. Monkman Park,  covers 62,867 hectares of diverse, beautiful landscapes from alpine meadows, forested valley and jagged mountain peaks, to massive waterfalls and crystal clear alpine lakes.

Despite the rugged nature of Monkman park, prime areas of it are easily accessed. There is even a wheelchair-accessible platform affording great views of the Falls. Activities at Monkman include camping, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, picnicking, and backcountry camping.

Kinuseo Falls

One of the true gems of the Tumbler Ridge area is Kinuseo Falls. The spectacular Kinuseo Falls is 70m tall, which is taller than Niagara Falls. Located in Monkman Provincial Park. There is both vehicle-accessible camping, tent camping, and walk-in/wilderness camping.

 

Tumbler Ridge FAQs

What is Tumbler Ridge known for?

Tumbler Ridge is a small town in northeastern British Columbia, Canada, known for several distinctive features and attractions like:

  • Dinosaur Discoveries: Tumbler Ridge is renowned for its significant dinosaur discoveries. The area boasts an abundance of dinosaur fossils and trackways. The town is home to the Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation, which showcases the region’s paleontological treasures. It’s a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts.
  • Global Geopark Designation: Tumbler Ridge is home to the Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark, a UNESCO-designated geopark. This recognition highlights the region’s remarkable geology, including its dinosaur fossils, sedimentary rock formations, waterfalls, and unique geological features. The geopark offers various hiking and exploration opportunities.
  • Outdoor Recreation: The town is surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It’s a hub for hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. The Wolverine Nordic and Mountain Society (WNMS) maintains numerous trails and promotes outdoor activities in the area.
  • Kinuseo Falls: Kinuseo Falls is one of the most stunning waterfalls in British Columbia. It’s located near Tumbler Ridge and is a popular attraction. The falls are taller than Niagra Falls and drop dramatically into a deep canyon.
  • Forestry and coal mining: Like many towns in northern British Columbia, Tumbler Ridge has a connection to the resource industry, particularly forestry and coal mining.

Why was Tumbler Ridge built?

Tumbler Ridge’s was built as an ‘instant town,’ in 1981 in order to support the coal mining and resource development activity in the area.

Is there cell service in Tumbler Ridge?

Yes, Tumbler Ridge has cell service throughout the town.The town and its immediate surroundings are well-covered by reliable cell service, ensuring you stay connected. However, it’s essential to note that as you venture along highways 29W (towards Chetwynd), 52N (heading to Dawson Creek), and 52E (leading to Boundary), cell service may become more limited. So while you’ll enjoy connectivity in and around Tumbler Ridge, it’s common to experience pockets of reduced coverage as you explore the scenic routes of the region.

How did Tumbler Ridge get its name?

Tumbler Ridge was named after the nearby geological feature known as the “Tumbler Ridge.” The name “Tumbler” is descriptive of the unique geological formation, and it refers to the tumbling or rolling rocks and boulders found in the area.

When did Tumbler Ridge become a town?

Tumbler Ridge officially became a town on April 9, 1981. It was during this time that the town was incorporated as a municipality in the province of British Columbia, Canada. The establishment of Tumbler Ridge as a town was closely tied to the development of the coal mining industry in the area. The town was created to support the growing workforce and their families, who were involved in coal mining operations in the region.

What river runs through Tumbler Ridge?

The Murray River flows near the town of Tumbler Ridge. It is a significant waterway in the region and offers opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing.

Is Tumbler Ridge still mining coal?

Yes, coal mining operations are still ongoing in the Tumbler Ridge region of British Columbia, Canada. The Quintette Mine, originally opened in the early ‘80’s was purchased in 2023 by Conuma and they will be investing significantly in modernizing the mine, which will bring major economic benefits to the region.

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