Elementary: Evelyn Dickson W.L. McLeod Sinkutview Mapes Secondary: Nechako Valley Secondary School Northside Christian School Valhalla High Virtual School: EBUS Academy www.ebus.ca
Geography
Vanderhoof is named after Herbert Vanderhoof. The geographic centre of British Columbia marker is at 53.965561N and 123.997089W, approximately 6.5 kilometres south-east of Vanderhoof in the locality of Weneez. Nearby communities include: Fort Fraser – 38 km west Fraser Lake – 59 km west Fort St. James – 61 km north Prince George – 96 km east Burns Lake – 128 km west Terrace – 475 km west Dawson Creek – 501 km Northwest Prince Rupert – 619 km west
Wildlife
Vanderhoof is known for its bird sanctuary along the Nechako River. Many Canada Geese, swans, and other migratory birds pass through Vanderhoof during their annual migration. The Nechako is home to a number of fish species, including salmon and sturgeon. Many hunters come to Vanderhoof in search of bear, moose, deer, cougar, and elk.
Culture and recreation
Cultural & recreational facilities include:
Nechako Valley Exhibition Grounds- home of the Fall Fair, 2 riding arenas, and agricultural show facilities
Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Centre – identifying, maintaining and potentially restoring critical sturgeon habitat in the Nechako River
Nechako Valley Sporting Association: Archery, Hand Gun, Fish & Game, Cross-Country Ski, Trap shoot, Wilderness Watch
Telegraph Trail
, set up in the 1890s to allow communication with the Klondike Gold Rush gold fields, was abandoned in the 1930s and later converted into a series of walking trails. A 10 km trail stretched from Hogsback Lake near Vanderhoof to the Blackwater Road.
Community events
Wild Goose Chase: held the first Sunday in May, this community 8 km, 5 km, and 3.5 km Fun Run brings out hundreds of participants and volunteers.
Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce Biennial Trade Show, scheduled in May on the "odd numbered" years.
Hooterville Hoot: an annual classic car show, held in early June.
Vanderhoof International Air show: An event that takes place in August, showcasing many skilled pilots and their aircraft, as well as several static displays.
Nechako Valley Exhibition: held the third weekend in August. A true country fair that is fun for the whole family.
Recreation/Leisure Fair: held in early September to introduce clubs and recreational opportunities to the community.
Annual Great Pumpkin Walk: 31 October. With hand-carved pumpkins and "trick-or-treating" in the park, attended by thousands of residents—a safe and convenient place for families to spend Halloween night. The following fireworks display lights up the entire Nechako River Valley.
Parade of Lights and Midnight Madness: Kicks off the Christmas time retail season with the parade and crazy sales. Held the first Friday in December.
