The name, Kitimat BC (Kitamaat) is a Tsimshian name given to the Haisla  Natives who made their home at the head of Douglas Channel, a long, broad  fjord that connects to Hecate Strait and the Pacific Ocean. The name, literally translated, means "People of the Snow" and it is a rather apt description, as records show the region can experience up to 18 feet of snow annually!

The Haisla currently make their home across the bay from the modern city of Kitimat, which was founded when the Aluminium Company of Canada (now known as Alcan) began construction of an aluminium smelter, and a town-site for the smelter workers, in the early 1950's.

A planned community, Kitimat's modern design was adapted by Clarence Stein, one of the foremost town planners of the day, from the garden city ideals of Ebenezar Howard. The garden city concept flourished during Britain's industrial revolution, and was actively promoted by Howard, who wanted to provide a community for factory workers that was filled and surrounded by park-like settings and greenbelts.

While isolation was a factor prior to the arrival of Alcan, a rail line opened by CN Rail in 1954, and a highway connection to Terrace in 1957, ensured that Kitimat residents would no longer be limited to arrival and departure by seaplane or boat.

The international natures of Kitimat's three largest industries strengthen the community's global outlook. Alcan's Kitimat Works is the largest aluminium  smelter in Canada, and the only one located west of the Rockies. About 90  per cent of its production is sold to markets located in the Pacific Rim.  Eurocan Pulp and Paper Ltd. is Canada's largest exporter of unbleached packaging  paper, while Methanex Corporation is the largest single consumer of natural gas in BC 570 million cubic meters annually. This gas is used to produce ammonia  and methanol.

Information/Emergency

Kitimat Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Info Centre is on Highway 37 and Forest Avenue near the entrance to town. 250-632-6294, fax 250-632-4685 or toll free 1-800-664-6554.

Emergency: Ambulance 250-632-5433; Hospital 250-632-2121; RCMP 250-632-7111;  Fire 250-639-9111.

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Accommodation
Aston Villa B & B 48 Anderson Street, Kitimat, BC V8C 1A4; 250-632-4344.

City Centre Motel 480 City Centre, Kitimat, BC V8C 1T6; 250-632-4848,  or 1-800-663-339 (BC only).

Camping
Hirsch Creek Park is located on Hwy 37 coming into Kitimat, five sites  with no power, well water, firewood, dry toilet. 250-632-8970.

MK Bay Marina has water, washrooms, sewer, sani-station, shower, laundry, and power for boats only. Wheelchair accessible. Boat launching & moorage available. 250-632-6401.

Radley Park is an overnight park established by the Kitimat Gyro Club and is operated in cooperation with the District of Kitimat. The park has  a washroom with showers. In addition, there is a sani-dump Open Spring to  Fall. Seniors discount - off-season. 250-632-8970, or Kitimat Chamber of Commerce  at 632-6294.

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Things to Do
Alcan Primary Metal Group Box 1800, Kitimat,BC, V8C 2H2. For tour reservations and information, call 250-639-8259. The bus-driven tour lasts approximately 75 minutes. All ages are welcome and there is no charge.

Centennial Park has a picnic area and features a totem pole and water fountain.

Coghlin Park Viewpoint has a gorgeous view of the entrance to the Douglas Channel.

Hiking & Biking Trails located throughout Kitimat for all ages and fitness levels, from rugged and adventurous trails to peaceful trails. Contact 250-632-6294 for more information.

Eurocan Pulp & Paper Co., a division of West Fraser Mills Ltd. Kitimat is home to Canada's largest unbleached packaging products mill—Eurocan's 400,000-tonne-a-year linerboard and kraft paper operation.

Hirsch Creek Golf & Winter Club 18 holes, par 71. For tee times call 250-632-4653.

Kitimat Centennial Museum is located at City Centre. 250-632-8950

Kitlope Nu-Yum Rediscovery Society offers rediscovery camps in the  Kemano/Kitlope area and welcomes people of all ages, sexes, religions and  races from all walks of life to participate. Please contact the Kitlope Nu-Yum Rediscovery Society for dates, cost and further details: 250-639-3322 or 250-632-7097.

Mount Layton Hot Springs Resort Ltd. Box 550, Terrace, BC V8G 4B5;  250-798-2214; km38/mile23

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