About Us
About Houston
Naturally Amazing – Houston, BC
Located in the heart of Northwestern British Columbia on the traditional and unceded territory of the Wit’suwit’en people, Houston is a welcoming rural community surrounded by forests, mountains, and rivers. Known as the Steelhead Capital and home to the world’s largest fly rod, Houston sits along Highway 16 and serves as an important service centre for residents and industry in the Bulkley Valley. With a population of approximately 3,000, the District supports a broader regional population through its forestry, service, and recreation-based economy.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. From world-class fishing on the Bulkley and Morice Rivers to hiking, camping, hunting, snowmobiling, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, Houston offers access to some of northern BC’s most scenic and rugged landscapes. The community is also home to a range of local amenities, including recreational facilities, parks, community events, and a strong volunteer spirit that contributes to a vibrant small-town atmosphere.
History of the District of Houston
Houston’s origins are closely tied to the expansion of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway in the early 20th century. The community developed as a key service and transportation hub, supporting railway operations and opening the region to settlement and resource development.
The District of Houston was officially incorporated in 1957. Over time, the community has grown alongside the forestry sector, which has played a central role in shaping Houston’s economy and identity.
Like many northern communities, Houston’s development was influenced by the determination of early settlers who were drawn to the area’s natural resources and opportunities. Today, Houston reflects a blend of its industrial roots and its evolving focus on sustainability, recreation, and quality of life.
Through its history, Houston has remained a resilient and close-knit community, maintaining strong connections to the land, local industries, and its regional role within the Bulkley-Nechako.