| Forests
for the World is a 106 hectare
demonstration forest with 15 (8.5 mi.) kilometres of hiking trails
located in the heart of Prince George, BC, Canada. The park, established
in 1986, enables adventurers to learn about the various forest
eco systems and the flora and fauna that thrive in the Fraser
- Nechako Plateau region.
Over the years thousands of spruce, pine and Douglas
fir trees have been planted throughout the park. And... some areas
have been left in their natural state for regeneration. Both methods
of reforestation provides an opportunity to the view the difference
between a natural and a managed forest.
The extensive trail system is suitable for all
ages and abilities. Some sections of the trail system are wheelchair
and baby stroller friendly while other hiking trails involve some
elevation gain with tree roots and boulders. The main trail to
Shane Lake is best suited for all groups and abilities as it is
very well maintained. At Shane Lake there are many amenities to
ensure a good time. There are picnic tables, a picnic shelter,
a BBQ pit, fire pits, pit toilets and a viewing platform.
The trails vary in length and elevation gain with
all of them being loop trails. Some of the trails are interpretive
routes with informative signs located along the trail while others
are not. These signs provide information about the wildlife, plants,
shrubs and tress of a healthy forest.
The trails in the Forests for the World Park include
the Western Loop Interpretive Trail, the Southern Loop Interpretive
Trail, Reflection Lake Loop Trail, the Eastern Boundary Loop Trail
and the Shane Lake Loop Trail. Also connecting to the Forests
for the World Park is the Cranbrook Greenway
Trail - another trail in the area connecting Otway to UNBC
to Blue Spruce.
Shane Lake and Reflection lake connect to the trail
system in the park. Shane Lake is a popular gathering spot and
wildlife viewing destination. There is a viewing platform and
a short floating boardwalk path on Shane Lake so to get a good
look of the landscape and wildlife. Beaver live on the lake..
and Moose and migratory birds visit the lake on a regular basis.
The park includes two viewing lookouts. The Upper
Lookout at the top of Cranbrook Hill provides a good view of the
Prince George community, the surrounding valley and the many blocks
of farmland. The lower viewpoint is located on the Shane Lake
Loop Trail. It provides views also just not as far reaching.
Forests for the World is a popular community park
in the community. A park that attracts allot of people and attention.
It is important to manage your garbage in this park so to leave
the park in good condition for the next person to enjoy. To make
this easier there are plenty of garbage cans located along the
routes in the park.
Contact information for
the local Prince George, BC accommodations, tours, guides,
golf courses and attractions, realtors, etc. are posted
under the links listed to your right. =) |
How to get to the Forests
for the World:From the Cariboo Hwy (97) head east
on 15th Avenue. Continue driving until 15th Avenue hits Foothills
Blvd and University Way. Follow Foothills Blvd. Take a left on
Cranbrook Hill Road. At Kueng Road take another left and continue
driving to the parking lot at the end of the road. |