Every August, Chetwynd, British Columbia, ignites with the roar of chainsaws and the scent of fresh-cut pine. The Chetwynd International Chainsaw Carving Competition is no mere display of woodworking; it’s a battle between artist and timber, where raw logs transform into towering sculptures under the relentless sun and watchful eyes. This event invites adventurers and art enthusiasts alike to witness nature’s materials harnessed and shaped with fierce precision.

The competition is hosted outdoors in Chetwynd’s sprawling parklands, where sturdy pines and firs hold steady against the breeze, almost watching the carving unfold. Each artist, with chainsaw in hand, works against time and weather, their creations gradually emerging — bears mid-roar, eagles poised for flight, mythic creatures frozen in wood. The combination of kinetic energy and patience creates a pulsing rhythm that links visitor and craft.

Chetwynd lies roughly 80 km northwest of Prince George, making the city the ideal base for accommodation and supplies. The town itself holds a rugged charm born of forestry and mining heritage, offering an authentic taste of northern British Columbia life. From here, visitors can plan outdoor excursions, including hikes around nearby Pine Le Moray Provincial Park, where forest paths challenge both casual trekkers and seasoned hikers with uneven terrain and occasional elevation gains of up to 200 meters over short distances.

When visiting the competition, prepare for varying weather conditions typical of the northern interior—sun can be intense in August afternoons, but morning fogs and evening chills demand layered clothing. Hydration is crucial as the excitement, paired with the warm air, draws moisture from the body faster than you might expect.

Beyond the spectacle, don’t miss local vendors offering handmade souvenirs and regional snacks that connect you further to the area’s vibrant community. Photography enthusiasts will find fresh inspiration in the interplay of natural light on carved wood and the vibrant event atmosphere, capturing contrast between human creativity and the indifferent forest around.

Planning your visit around the competition means engaging with a living art form that is fiercely wild, both in material and spirit. The chainsaw competitions aren’t just about carving – they celebrate a relentless relationship between human skill and natural force, inviting admiration and practical preparation from visitors ready to experience it all.