In ancient times, the surrounding rivers of Stewart were the center of warfare. They were the great veins of salmon stock. Seasonally, the salmon still return and the fresh water fishing also draws sportsmen who want to take on a relaxing day in search of the 'big one'.
Stewart may seem barren to a big city tourist, however, the deep woods full of spirit and absolute remote moments of ambling through the riches of British Columbia's wilderness can completely takes visitors to an unusual, yet calling, experience.
The more traveled road, describes Stewarts town feel. Miners, forestry workers, and hardworking hands have patched this small town together. Grab a drink at the local pub, stroll the side streets or plan a day in the hills, any way you take it a journey through Stewart it will show you what life must have been like in rural towns centuries ago.
Population: 700
Highlights:
Glacier Creek
Bear Glacier - one of the easiest to access in the world.
Fish Creek
Salmon Glacier - fifth largest in the world.
History:
The area known as Stewart was formerly the hunting grounds of the Nass Indians. And strictly so. They did not make the river shores home for long as throughout the season they would have found themselves under attack. The Haidas would often plans raids and attack from across the ocean waters from the shores of the Queen Charlotte Islands. However, these clans were not the Nass' only concern. Inland from the rear, the Stikine would also invade the rivers fishing harvests. So, it was an area of great struggle and survival for thousands of years.
In the spring of 1898, over sixty prospectors arrived on the shores of Stewart in attempt to discover and area rich with placer gold. This was the beginning of the mining legacy which built Stewart to a population peak of nearly 10,000.
Eventually, the rumors of the areas grand mining potential and fantastic fishery harvests brought many entrepreneurial businessmen. The Portland Canal Mining & Development Co. Ltd was incorporated in 1907. Without mining Stewart would, quite possibly, have never become such a historical landmark in British Columbia's industrial history.
Climate:
Summer average 19 degrees Celsius
Winter average -2 degrees Celsius
Expect snow and cooler temperatures at higher elevations.
For more information please visit www.stewartcassiar.com/
Stewart Accommodations
Stewart Things to Do
British Columbia
