about tumbler ridge
embrace change and thrive:
explore the opportunities in tumbler ridge
Welcome to Tumbler Ridge, a place where natural beauty and vibrant community life come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies in northeastern British Columbia, Canada, Tumbler Ridge is a picturesque district municipality that will steal your heart.
With a population of 2,399 (2021), our townsite spans an impressive area of 1,558 km2 (602 sq mi), mainly comprising pristine Crown land. Conveniently located near the confluence of the Murray River and Flatbed Creek, Tumbler Ridge provides easy access to Highway 52 and Highway 29, making it easy for visitors to explore.
Tumbler Ridge is a true gem—a planned community born in 1981 with a mission to support the coal industry. Working hand in hand with the British Columbia Resources Investment Corporation's Northeast Coal Development, Denison Mines Inc. and the Teck Corporation operated the Quintette mine and the Bullmoose mine. Their collaboration involved supplying a whopping 100 million tonnes of coal to a consortium of Japanese steel mills over 15 years, valued at an impressive US$7.5 billion.
However, as the 1990s rolled in, global coal prices began to dip, and Asian markets faced some challenges. These hurdles cast a shadow of uncertainty over Tumbler Ridge's future, hindering its projected population growth to 10,000 residents. Despite these setbacks, our resilient town persevered.
Every cloud has a silver lining! Tumbler Ridge bounced back when coal prices saw a resurgence in the early 2000s. The Peace River Coal Trend mine, established by Northern Energy & Mining Inc. (now owned by Anglo American), and the Wolverine Mine, acquired by Conuma Resources in 2016, injected new energy into the local economy, paving the way for fresh opportunities. Tumbler Ridge is now a community embracing change and growth as our proud mining sector is increasingly supplemented by a diversifying economy. Our international UNESCO designation as a Geopark, community forest expansion, world-class renewable energy generating capacity and pristine outdoor adventure is a gateway to opportunity for the entrepreneurial spirit.
Adventure beckons in Tumbler Ridge, with a plethora of recreational destinations at your fingertips. Embark on thrilling rides along scenic, be awestruck by hikes amongst majestic mountains, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of waterfalls. Winter brings joy to snowmobiling enthusiasts as our region transforms into a snowy wonderland. Find serenity in the embrace of Monkman Provincial Park, Bearhole Lake Provincial Park, and Gwillim Lake Provincial Park, all located within easy reach.
Whether you're seeking outdoor excitement, natural splendor, or a welcoming community atmosphere, Tumbler Ridge has it all. Uncover the wonders of our extraordinary town and make memories that will last a lifetime in this captivating corner of northeastern British Columbia.
