Planning the Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip

Kevin Miller / Getty Images 

British Columbia (BC) is the westernmost province in Canada, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Rocky Mountains on the other. In addition to mountains and coastline, forests dominate British Columbia's geography, creating a diverse and beautiful landscape to traverse by road trip.

Since the northern portion of British Columbia is largely unpopulated, extremely mountainous, and underdeveloped, the ideal tour would stick primarily to the province's lower portion. The two best options are to drive a loop from Vancouver, hitting the charming mountain villages that dot the Rocky Mountains along the way, or to spend your time touring Vancouver Island, known for its untamed, surf-centric beaches.

BC roads are, for the most part, well-maintained, safe, and clearly marked, but some routes are winding and mountainous. Visitors should be aware of weather conditions, especially between late October and April when snow, fog, and ice can affect the roads. Driving through the Rocky Mountains during this time is not advisable for inexperienced winter drivers.

Always check the weather forecast and the road report before traveling. For information on current road conditions, visit the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation . 

Basic Rules of the Road

Getty Images

Driving in Canada is very similar to driving in the U.S. Canadians drive in the right lane, like Americans, but they measure distances in kilometers instead of miles. Consider these regulations:

  • Drivers may not use hand-held electronic devices while driving. Talking on the phone or texting could earn you a ticket for distracted driving, which can cost upwards of $350.
  • International visitors may drive in BC for up to six months with a valid driver’s license from your country.
  • Driving under the influence of any substance, such as alcohol or drugs, is illegal, even though marijuana products are legal throughout the province.
  • Seat belts and car seats appropriate for the age and size of your child are mandatory.
  • Common speed limits in BC include 30 kmh (20 mph) in a school zone; 50 kmh (30 mph) in built-up areas; 80 kmh (50 mph) on rural roads; and 110–120 kmh (70–75 mph) on major highways and expressways. The maximum speed limit in BC is 120 kmh (75 mph).

Planning the Logistics

If you plan to fly into Canada and rent an RV or car for your road trip, the most logical place to start is either in Calgary in the neighboring province of Alberta or in Vancouver. Seattle , a two-hour drive away from the Canada/U.S. border, would also be a convenient takeoff point for a drive around British Columbia. Flying into the U.S. instead of Canada can sometimes be more convenient or affordable. 

Calgary is a major airline hub that's about 118 miles (190 kilometers) from the BC border. If you arrive in Calgary and rent a car, you can make a splendid drive to Vancouver via Banff and Lake Louise, two of Canada's most stunning mountain destinations.

Camping is also an excellent option for accommodation during your trip; campgrounds in British Columbia are abundant and range in service level, from pit toilets and hand-pumped water to full washrooms with hot showers and electricity. If you plan to stay in hotels and lodges, it would be best to book far in advance, especially for summer.

Option 1: East of Vancouver Loop

Jenske Arts / FOAP / Getty Images

This trip option, east of Vancouver, can take between five and 10 days, depending on whether you include the eastern cities of Revelstoke and Golden in your itinerary. In any case, you'll first want to get from Vancouver to Whistler along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). This 750-mile (120-kilometer) route is extremely scenic, offering ocean views to one side and mountain panoramas to the other. At the end of it is the famous ski destination—Whistler—one of the best in the world and home to two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, that hover a mile above the village. 

From Whistler, head northeast to Kamloops , (a four-hour drive). You'll see the terrain change from coastal mountains to near-desert. Worthwhile stops along the way include Nairn Falls Provincial Park, Pemberton, and Lillooet. The latter two towns were a hub of Gold Rush activity in the 19th century and are steeped in First Nations (indigenous) culture. But instead of staying in Kamloops, continue an hour past—still on the TransCanada Highway —to Salmon Arm, which is far more charming. 

If you have the time, continue east to Revelstoke and Golden, two of BC's most beautiful destinations in the Canadian Rockies and home to some epic ski resorts. In this region, you can visit hot springs and provincial parks whose lakes are full of that azure-blue glacial water that Lake Louise is known for. Because of the mountainous terrain and limited roads, you'll likely want to head back the same way you arrived, on Highway 1. On the return, stop by places you might have passed the first time around, like Craigellachie and Sicamous, both sleepy-but-scenic resort and retirement towns.

At Sicamous, head south to Kelowna  (a two-hour drive), also known as the gateway to the Okanagan Valley and its wine region. Sporty travelers love the wide array of outdoor activities here: hiking, golfing, boating, and more. From there, drive down through Penticton to Osoyoos, stopping at any winery that appeals to you. Mission Hill and Quails Gate are two of the better known and visually striking wineries, but there are dozens of others. You're now on the way back to Vancouver along the very southern part of British Columbia. From Osoyoos, hop onto Highway 3, through Hope and then on to Vancouver, about a four-and-a-half-hour drive. 

Option 2: Vancouver Island

Known for its rugged, diverse, and beautiful geography, moderate climate, and unhurried way of life, Vancouver Island sits just off the mainland of British Columbia. It's home to the provincial capital of Victoria, but not the province's most populous city, Vancouver.  Vancouver Island is fairly big, requiring about six hours to drive from its south end to its north end. It takes three hours to drive from Nanaimo (mid-island on the east) to Tofino (mid-island on the west) alone.

Victoria makes for a great stopover, with Butchart Gardens beckoning a half-day tour and Craigdarroch Castle requiring at least a few hours. There are plenty of museums to explore and whale-watching tours departing from here, too. After staying in Victoria for a night or two, road trippers can continue to Parksville (about a two-hour drive away) for sprawling, sandy beaches, then proceed for three hours to beautiful Tofino, a small coastal town with a major surf culture.

The hippie-ish town of Tofino is brimming with forests, trails, and beaches (that are slightly cold for swimming, but stunning nonetheless). It offers a diverse culinary scene and activities such as whale watching, black bear viewing, and sea kayaking. End your trip at the picturesque fishing village of Telegraph Cove or Port McNeill for a grizzly bear safari.

Canada's Most Scenic Drives

Banff National Park: The Complete Guide

Best Vancouver Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

Canada's 10 Most Famous Cities

The Best Vancouver Day Trips

18 Top Things to Do in Winter in Canada

Your Trip to Vancouver: The Complete Guide

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Canada

Top Things To Do in Banff

How to Plan the Ultimate Ski Vacation to Whistler, British Columbia

Discover the Glacial Blue Waters of Peyto Lake

The Ultimate Cross-Canada Road Trip: Montreal to Vancouver

How to Travel From Vancouver to Banff by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

The Best Places to Visit in Canada in May

Top 10 Cities in British Columbia

Skiing in Canada

The World As I See It

One Ontario lady with a passion for travel and inspiring others to get outdoors and explore more

  • Canada / Travel

British Columbia Road Trip Guide & 4 Epic BC Road Trip Itineraries

by Bea · Published January 31, 2023 · Updated January 8, 2024

Vast landscapes, breathtaking natural beauties and abundant wildlife. The best way to experience it all is on a British Columbia road trip! British Columbia Canada spans an area of 944,735 km² and you likely won’t see everything in this westernmost province, so don’t even plan to. BC is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains. The province is dominated by forests and lakes and is too beautiful of a place to rush through.

In this travel guide you find all the British Columbia road trip tips you’ll need to know before you go. Plus, the best driving routes so that whatever time you have for your visit, you can make the best of it.

BC Road trip on the Sea to Sky Highway

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. By clicking through and purchasing through these links I may make a small commission to help run this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thx!

Which season is the best for a British Columbia road trip?

Lots of factors make the summer months the most ideal time for a BC road trip. British Columbia in the summer is generally between May and September.

Summer days are long and the weather is generally warm and dry. This lets you enjoy the outdoors more and makes driving is easy, without any extreme weather conditions. Summer is the season to access high mountain trails and those wonderful alpine lakes. However, this makes summer the most popular and most expensive season too.

Between late October and April, drivers should be more cautious. Snow, fog and ice can affect driving conditions and the accessibility of the roads. Driving in the mountains in the winter is not recommended unless you’re an experienced winter driver.

If you decide to drive, your car needs to be prepared for winter conditions. Winter tires are a must, chains are recommended, and you need to be prepared for unexpected delays and sudden change of plans.

With that said, winter is the high season to visit the wonderful mountain ski resorts in BC. But Vancouver and most of Vancouver Island doesn’t get much snow. Instead, they get an extreme amount of rain. While you can have beautiful days in coastal BC in the winter, summer (especially July and August) guarantees a much drier and sunnier visit.

View of Vancouver skyline and water

Where to start your BC road trip?

You’ll likely fly into Canada and rent a car (or an RV) for your road trip. There are three straightforward cities to fly to, and only two of them are in Canada. You can fly into Vancouver, Calgary (in the neighboring province of Alberta) and Seattle (in the USA).

Every BC road trip isn’t complete without visiting Vancouver , so you should start there. But Seattle is only about two hours’ drive away.

So, starting in Seattle is great for a longer West Coast road trip. The Calgary to Vancouver drive is roughly 12 hours. The scenic drive takes you to many of the world famous national parks in the Canadian Rockies.

Which are the best British Columbia road trip routes?

So, let’s see where exactly to drive. If you only have a few days, drive from Vancouver to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway. Or opt for a Vancouver Island road trip.

If you have one or two weeks, you can take a loop around the lower portion of British Columbia. Or you can drive from Vancouver to Banff.

The northern portion of the province is scarcely populated and underdeveloped. Plus, it takes a long time to drive there from Vancouver. For one or two week long trips, I recommend sticking to the southern portion of British Columbia. This area offers amazing parks, mountains and lakes than you can visit in a few weeks.

4 Epic British Columbia Road Trip Route Options

Sea to Sky Gondola is a must stop on a British Columbia road trip

Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler Road Trip Itinerary

The Sea to Sky Highway is aptly named, as it truly takes you from the sea to the sky. The drive takes visitors from the scenic ocean views of Howe Sound to the snow-capped peaks of the coastal mountains.

Even if you only have one day, you can enjoy this drive on Highway 99 from Vancouver to Whistler. If you have 2 to 3 days, you can complete some of the longer hiking trails in the area.

If you visit the attractions of Vancouver before you begin your trip, Whytecliff Park is an ideal first stop on the Sea to Sky road trip. Located in West Vancouver, this small coastal park has a beach and a few elevated lookout points. Keep your eyes open for seals as they like resting on the rocks here, especially on Whyte Islet.

Further north, Porteau Cove Provincial Park is another great stop. It has a rocky beach, a pier and views of Howe Sound and the mountains towering above. As you head further north, you reach Shannon Falls. At 335 meters high, Shannon Falls is the third tallest waterfall in British Columbia. Plus, it’s just a short walk away from the roadside parking lot. This makes it one of the best short stops along the Sea to Sky Highway.

The Sea to Sky Gondola is also right by the road. It takes you from the highway up to the Summit Lodge within a few minutes. There you can enjoy the panoramic views over Howe Sound from the viewing platform. In addition, you can walk across the Sky Pilot suspension bridge or even go hiking.

Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail is our favorite trail in the area. The trail is a 7 km return hike that starts from the Summit Lodge. It treats you with wonderful mountain vistas all the way.

Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is the next stop. And it’s impossible to miss the giant peaks towering above the highway! Here, you’ll find one of the top hiking trails in Canada ! Conquering the First and Second Chief Peaks is a relatively short, but steep, challenging and rewarding hike. If you don’t have the time for hiking, simply stop at the roadside parking lot. From here you can marvel at the mountains directly above you.

Tantalus Lookout is definitely worth a stop. But you can only access it when you are driving southbound from Whistler to Vancouver. A left turn is forbidden on the northbound route. So, save it for your journey back.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is a stop for those who have time for long, exhausting, wonderful mountain hikes. Two great hikes are Garibaldi Lake Trail or the Panorama Ridge.

Brandywine Falls is another easy stop. With a few hundred meters walk to reach the viewing platform you can see Brandywine Falls. It’s a 70 meter tall beauty that flows over lava columns.

After Brandywine Falls, it’s about a 10 minutes drive to reach Whistler. You can stroll around Whistler Village, swim in Lost Lake or marvel at the color of Green Lake.

Optionally, continuing your journey to Pemberton allows you to experience a pretty mountain drive. Be sure to stop at Nairns Falls Provincial Park and One Mile Lake.

Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler Road Trip Details

Recommended length of road trip: 1-3 days

Route: Vancouver – Squamish – Whistler – Pemberton – Vancouver

Estimated driving time: 4.5 hours, about 306 km (there and back)

Mount Revelstoke

Southern British Columbia Road Trip Itinerary

This loop drive in southern British Columbia includes the Sea to Sky Highway, but also much more! Allow at least 10-14 days to experience it, because the driving distance is long. And there are lots of worthwhile stops on the way.

This scenic drive in British Columbia goes from Vancouver to Whistler, with all the stops described in the Sea to Sky Highway road trip above. In addition, the road trip from Whistler continues to Kamloops through Pemberton and Lillooet.

The mountainous landscape turns into a near-desert. Kamloops as a city doesn’t offer much to see, but you’ll find over a hundred lakes nearby.

As you carry on to Revelstoke, you get the mountain scenery back. The 26 km long Meadows in the Sky Parkway takes you straight up to the peak of Mount Revelstoke.

Revelstoke offers plenty of outdoor adventure activities. A few fun activities at Revelstoke Mountain Resort include the Pipe Mountain Coaster, mountain biking, and skiing.

Golden is your next stop! Plus, it’s a gateway to the beautiful Canadian Rockies. And arriving here, you reach the furthest destination in this route.

Now it’s time to drive back, but not on the same way. However, if you’re looking to extend your road trip, consider staying at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden.

Continuing your southern British Columbia road trip itinerary head south to Kelowna by the Okanagan Lake. Here you can explore the Okanagan Valley which is the most famous wine region in BC.

The drive continues to Osoyoos to find a true desert and the warmest freshwater lake in the Canada. Lake Osoyoos has average summer temperatures of 24°C.

Finally, get back to Vancouver via Hope. You can also stop in the unspoiled mountains of E.C. Manning Provincial Park or in Harrison Hot Springs.

Southern British Columbia Road Trip Details

Recommended length of road trip: 10 -14 days

Route: Vancouver – Whistler – Kamloops – Revelstoke – Golden – Kelowna – Osoyoos – Vancouver

Estimated driving time: 20.5 hours, about 1647 km (loop drive)

Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in Victoria

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

Vancouver Island is just off the mainland of BC, and it’s bigger than you’d think. So, the route I recommend here is not about everything you can see on Vancouver Island. But rather includes highlights of the island that you can see in a few days.

Start in the provincial capital, Victoria! Take a walk in the Inner Harbour and visit the Butchart Gardens. The gardens is a National Historic Site and is one of the best places to find cherry blossoms in Canada ! So, this British Columbia road trip itinerary is ideal in the spring.

Then drive to Nanaimo and Parksville, and head west towards Tofino. There are plenty of picturesque stops on the way.

Stops include Little Qualicum Falls, Englishman River Falls and the Hole-In-The-Wall in Port Alberni. You’ll drive through Pacific Rim National Park which means even more tempting stops!

If you’re keen to stretch your legs, you’ll find plenty of the amazing Vancouver Island hikes along this stretch. Take a walk on Long Beach, hike the short Rainforest Trail loops and chill out in Cox Bay.

Tofino is a small coastal town at the end of the peninsula. It has a hippie vibe and many surfers. Walk around in the lovely town center and harbor.

One of the best things to do in Tofino is hike the Tonquin Trail. This beautiful coastal hike leads to secluded beaches and awesome views.

Since Vancouver has ferry connections with both Victoria and Nanaimo, you can arrive in Victoria, then leave from Nanaimo at the end of your Vancouver Island road trip.

If you’re want add whale watching to your British Columbia road trip, Vancouver Island is a great place to do so. Try this Whale Watching tour that cruises through the Haro Strait in search of whales and other marine life.

Vancouver Island Road Trip

Recommended length of road trip: 3-5 days

Route: Victoria – Nanaimo – Tofino – Nanaimo

Estimated driving time: 7 hours, about 525 km

water and mountain views of Lake Louise in Banff National Park

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

Finally, the famous road trip that connects Vancouver with Banff. Plus, the rest of the national parks in the Canadian Rockies. If you rent a car, I recommend picking it up in Vancouver and dropping it off in Calgary so that you don’t have to do the long drive twice.

First, head to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway. It makes your trip slightly longer, but the views are absolutely worth it. Then explore Southern British Columbia as you drive through Kamloops, Revelstoke and Golden. You’ll arrive in BC’s portion of the Canadian Rockies and the first national park of the adjoining four: Yoho National Park.

Yoho National Park is smaller than neighboring Banff. However, it has easily reachable, wonderful roadside attractions. Rent a kayak to explore Emerald Lake, which is named after its incredible color. Marvel at the rock formations at Natural Bridge. And walk to the roaring Takakkaw Falls, which is 373 meters high, in the Yoho Valley. Then drive further to reach Banff National Park and its world famous lakes, like Lake Louise.

A few other great stops to add in Banff National Park include the Banff Gondola for epic views. Plus, Moraine Lake and Johnston Canyon. You can stop in Canmore or continue on. Both the Trans Canada Highway and 1A take you through the scenic Bow Flats Natural Area. Both roads have a variety of beautiful scenic lookouts to stop at before arriving in Calgary.

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Details

Recommended length of road trip: one or two weeks

Route: Vancouver – Whistler – Kamloops – Revelstoke – Golden – Banff – Calgary

Estimated driving time: 12.5 hours (1039 km)

I hope you enjoyed this road trip guide to British Columbia and all of its essential travel tips. With so many great British Columbia road trips, these route options offer the best way to travel around BC and see the top sights!

About the author: Bea is a passionate traveler, hiker and founder of In Love With BC. Her blog focuses on traveling and outdoor activities in British Columbia.

PIN IMAGE FOR LATER REFERENCE!

British Columbia Road Trip Guide: 4 Epic BC Road Trips

Tags: British Columbia Canada

You may also like...

Chandi Wyant

Chandi Wyant – Travel Writer Interview

May 10, 2017

 by Stephanie · Published May 10, 2017 · Last modified June 15, 2021

Cinque Terre

Ultimate Guide to Things to do in Cinque Terre, Italy

April 26, 2017

 by Stephanie · Published April 26, 2017 · Last modified December 22, 2023

Apollo Gallery

Louvre: Look Beyond the Art

January 27, 2017

 by Stephanie · Published January 27, 2017 · Last modified August 23, 2022

4 Responses

  • Pingbacks 0

It’s my dream to do a Roadtrip in British Columbia. Thank you for sharing such a detailed blog post.

Thanks for sharing all this amazing road trip ideas! I am heading to Canada this fall and will definitely try to take one of these routes!

Fall is such a great time to visit! I hope you have an awesome trip!

The road from Banff to Vancouver is so scenic – I drove both ways a few years ago and was “wowed” the entire way!

What are your thoughts? Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

  • Next story  +20 Best Things to do in Markham Ontario – A City Full of Culture, Fun & Food
  • Previous story  19 Best Ontario Maple Syrup Festivals to Attend in 2024

Hey there, I'm Stephanie and am the gal behind The World As I See It. I have a passion for travel, hiking, and local travel in Ontario! Let me take you along on my journey exploring my own backyard - including Ontario small towns, cafes, and trails to cities around the globe. I hope you will be inspired to get out and explore your backyard and beyond!

For the Latest Sign Up Below

road trip bc

TOP ONTARIO BLOGGER

Top Ontario Bloggers

TOP CANADIAN TRAVEL BLOGGER

Top 60 Canada Travel Blogs

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The Perfect British Columbia 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Post summary: The perfect British Columbia Itinerary for a 5 day road trip from Vancouver to Whistler. Includes maps, places to stay, and a detailed day-to-day overview. (Last updated August 2022)

This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a small commission of any purchase you make using my link, at no cost to you!

Arguably one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, Canada’s most western province boasts something to satisfy every type of adventurous spirit.

Crisp alpine air, vibrant moss in a lush northern rain forest, ghostly fog blanketing glacier capped mountain peaks. Crashing waterfalls, steamy hot springs, turquoise water, and the salty smell of the Pacific Ocean.

Those are the things that I love most about British Columbia. And I know you will love them too. That’s why I’ve gone ahead and written out our perfectly cohesive 5-day British Columbia road trip itinerary that’s guaranteed to make your adventure through this incredible province so unforgettable. .

Table of Contents

The Logistics

I was overly excited to start planning our British Columbia road trip. I scoured Pinterest, delved into the depths of every relevant forum I could find online and contacted everyone I knew who lived in the area in the hopes of scoring insider advice. My Google Maps were peppered with pins from all over the province: a few stops along the coast of Vancouver Island, Orca watching, road tripping back up through the city, then Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton to explore the alpine.

I took a deep breath and forced myself back into reality. There’s so much to see, so many options, so little time. So I recollected myself and settled on one small area. Fast forward a few days and too many cups of coffee later: I pinned some places we couldn’t miss, reserved a 4×4, and spoke with some locals. I finally had a tentative plan on how to make the most of our week around Whistler, British Columbia. .

The Route: Vancouver to Whistler (and beyond)

Our flight touched down in Vancouver at 10am. We picked up our rental car, stopped for Starbucks espresso and made last minute tweaks to our plan. Then, we headed straight toward Whistler. However, if you arrive in Vancouver late at night, you will want to add an extra day to spend the night in Vancouver and get your bearings before starting this road trip. 

This road trip route snakes northward up the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler and Pemberton, and back down to Squamish , before ending with one last adventure in Vancouver.

DAY 1: BRANDYWINE FALLS TO WHISTLER 

Brandywine Falls was our first stop on our drive to Whistler. The parking area is easily accessible from the road, so it only made sense to let one of the most iconic waterfalls in the area give us a proper welcome to British Columbia.

Brandywine Falls Trail to the Upper Viewing Platform 

  • Rated : Easy
  • Distance : 1km, out and back
  • Season : year-round
  • Time needed : 30 minutes – 1 hour

Hiking to the base of Brandywine Falls in British Columbia

Brandywine Falls is nestled within Brandywine Provincial Park, where it crashes 70m into the volcanic valley that its carved out over thousands of years.

We spent several hours admiring the falls from the viewing platform, meandering through the forest, and scrambling the trail to the base of the falls. 

Lush green moss, bright red pine bark, and the smell of earthy cedar hung in the air. The sound of frigid rushing water penetrated the silence around us. To say there was something magical about the forest at the base of the falls would be an understatement.

British Columbia conifer forest

How to get to the base of Brandywine Falls 

You’ll have to do a bit of off-roading if you wish to adventure to the bottom of Brandywine Falls.

To find the trailhead, hike past the viewing platform. At the very end of the main trail, you’ll find an unmarked and unmaintained path in the trees to the left of the fence.

NOTE: The trail is rugged and dangerous . There used to be a rope to help you navigate the steepest sections, but the rope is no longer there. You’ll have to climb down the steep sections, find your way down an arduous scree slope, follow an unmarked trail through the forest to the river, and then navigate the slippery rocks up to the falls. This path is not safe and should only be left to those who are fit, experienced, and willing to risk injury.

Hike time to the base of the falls : 2-3 hours .

Where to stay in Whistler

Pinnacle Hotel Whistler British Columbia

Budget ($): HI Whistler Hostel and Pinnacle Hotel Whistler

Moderate ($$): Legends Condo Hotel and Whistler Studio Airbnb

Splurge ($$$): Pan Pacific Whistler Village  

DAY 2: JOFFRE LAKES

Joffre Lakes trail information (Lower Lake to Upper Lake)”

  • Rated:  intermediate, some difficult steep sections
  • Distance:  10km, out and back
  • Time:  4-5 hours round-trip
  • Season:  year-round
  • Camping allowed : yes

If you’ve ever seen a picture of British Columbia, chances are you’ve seen Joffre Lakes – the series of 3 glacial fed alpine lakes with a bright powdery blue complexion.

Joffre Lakes is the single most popular hike around Pemberton, BC and I’ll admit I was nervous to visit. I’ve seen so many photos of this place plastered all over social media.

Would it live up to the hype? Would it be filled with people? How would I feel about it after having seen the turquoise lake from seemingly every single perspective possible?

Those were a few thoughts that floated through my mind as we took the scenic drive from Whistler to Joffre Lakes Provincial Park.

But I am so happy we went, because it turned out to be the highlight of our trip. And I’m thrilled to report that photos on Instagram don’t even do it justice.

Swimming in Joffre Lakes Middle Lake

From the parking lot, we followed the trail directly to the first lake. Then, we climbed steadily into the alpine as the forest changed and the trail delivered us from one lake to the next. Each more beautiful than the last. Sparkling glaciers, thick alpine forests, chubby little gray jays, pikas, and twinkling crystal waters took our breath away.

The entire hike took us about 6 hours round trip, including stops for photos, icy lake swims (ok, just me), and making friends with the gregarious gray jays.

The majority of people stop at the second lake, but do yourself a favor and spend the extra 15-20 minutes to reach the upper lake. You won’t be disappointed.

NOTE: Please practice responsible wildlife tourism and do not feed the gray jays !

You’ll see many people feeding the jays in an attempt to entice them to land in their hands. Its not cool. Help to keep them wild by not teaching them to rely on human food. They’re naturally very smart, very curious birds and will come to say hello on their own if you sit still.

Upper Joffre Lake, British Columbia

We were told by a local that the hike to Joffre Lakes resembles more of a queue than a hike through the forest in the summer months, as thousands of people flock to see the famous blue waters. But thanks to traveling in the off season, we arrived that October morning to a half-full parking lot and the three alpine lakes almost all to ourselves. 

The powder blue color of the water is seasonal, though. So do consider traveling here in the summer if you want to see it! 

Hiking around Vancouver, British Columbia

DAY 3: NAIRN FALLS AND SLOQUET HOT SPRINGS

Stop 1: nairn falls.

Trail information:

  • Rating: easy
  • Distance:  3 km round-trip
  • Camping allowed:  yes

Nairn Falls was not a planned stop on our itinerary, but more of a stop along the way from Whistler to Sloquet Hot Springs.

Nairn Falls is a brilliant green-blue waterfall that twists and weaves through a series of channels carved in the rock. From a beautifully constructed viewing platform, you can safely watch as the water crashes into a series of circular pools that are carved and polished by gravel carried down the river.

Located on our way north, we pulled off into the parking area under the impression that the falls were accessible from the road. Although not immediately accessible from the parking area, it only took us about 15-20 minutes to walk 1.5 km along the river to the falls.

Nairn Falls, Waterfalls of British Columbia

Stop 2: Sloquet Hot Springs 

In the spirit of transparency, I’m not usually one to further publicize special places like this one. But honestly, if you’re game to put in the work to get here, then you deserve it.

The drive to Sloquet Hot Springs was long and exhausting. In hindsight, it would have been better to camp overnight at the springs instead of drive the 6 hours round-trip from Whistler in one day. 

But we were warned about the distance. In my research I came across a disclaimer on not to be fooled by the “measly 63km” from Pemberton to Sloquet Hot Springs. And they were right.

We found ourselves weaving along an unpaved logging road in the middle of the wilderness for close to 3 hours. There were no other cars along that lonely stretch of road and we watched nervously as we our cell phone service dwindled to nothing. 

The logging road to Sloquet Hot Springs near Vancouver

We came close to turning around countless times, but thankfully we [stubbornly] persisted, because this stop was more than worth it. We finally arrived at the camp ground and hiked 1km through the forest, where we saw steam rising above the tree line.

Soaking in the pool at Sloquet Hot Springs in British Columbia

Having arrived mid-afternoon, we joined a handful of other people lounging in the pools along the river. There’s ample room to spread out at Sloquet, with a few upper hot pools fed by a hot waterfall, cascading down into a series of smaller pools along the banks of the river.

We spent several hours rotating between the pools of varying temperatures and relaxing under the canopy of conifers. When the sun went down, we hiked out under the light of the milky way.

Sloquet Hot Springs

Sloquet Hot Springs Information 

Getting there:  Leave enough time for the drive. It takes about 3.5 hours to get there from Whistler. Download the map offline or be sure your GPS will work if you lose service. It would be smart to carry a satellite phone and other emergency essentials . Don’t attempt this drive without an SUV.

Cost and camping: $5CAD per person for use of the pools (cash only). Campsites are $15 and are first-come-first-served if you decide to stay the night. Note that the entrance money goes directly into maintenance of the area. Visit Sloquet’s website for the most up to date information.

Facilities: This is a natural area. Besides for a small changing wall besides the hot springs, there are no facilities near the hot springs. However, there is an outhouse at the top of the hill at the trail head, which is a short walk from the springs.

Nudity allowed: Yes. Clothing is optional here. Be mindful of nude soakers when you snap photos and be respectful of their choice (or even join them yourself, because when in Rome, amirite?)

DAY 4: SQUAMISH 

Squamish is a beautiful mountain town between the drive from Whistler and Vancouver, located at the north end of Howe Sound along the Sea to Sky Highway.

We dedicated one full day to exploring Squamish , since everything we wanted to do was in the same immediate area.

Where to stay in Squamish British Columbia

Stop 1: Shannon Falls 

the third highest waterfall in British Columbia. Truly an impressive sight, this waterfall is easily accessible from the road. You can make it a quick stop or choose to spend more time and hike to the top.

Stop 2: Sea to Sky Gondola

Right next door is the admission to the Sea to Sky Gondola. This gondola wasn’t our first choice, but the other gondolas that provided access to different hiking trails were closed for the season.

The price of a round-trip ticket for the Sea to Sky Gondola is $55 per person, but turned out to be well worth it for the best views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find a suspension bridge, restaurant, and an array of hiking trails.

Sea to Sky Gondola views in British Columbia

Stop 3: Squamish Chief

Otherwise known as “the Chief”, these three summits are among the most popular hiking spots in British Columbia. It took us several hours to summit the first peak, where we were shocked to find we were the only people on top. Whether it was because we arrived just before sunset or because it was the off-season, we’ll never know, but we were completely delighted given the popularity of the hike. 

Summit of Stawamus Chief, Squamish British Columbia

We spent awhile on the summit, perched high above the sprawling views of Howe Sound. After that, we descended the same steep trail we followed on the way up.

Hike Squamish Chief

Squamish Chief Trail Information

  • Difficulty:  intermediate to difficult
  • Distance:  11km
  • Elevation gain:  6020 meters
  • Time:  3-7 hours depending on your fitness level and number of peaks
  • Season:  March – November

NOTE : the south peak (peak 1) is a decent climb with a 500m elevation gain. This peak offers the most rewarding views, so many people stop here. However, if you’ve got about 6-7 hours, a good fitness level, and plenty of energy, you can hike all 3 peaks in one day. .

READ NEXT:  What to Pack for a Day Hike: Essential Gear and Complete Packing List

Where to stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins in Squamish British Columbia

Budget ($): Squamish Adventure Inn Hostel and Squamish Tiny Cabin

Moderate ($$): Midnight in Paradise Cottage and  Sunwolf Riverside Cabins

Splurge ($$$): Private Waterfront Cabin Airbnb and  Ocean View Tea Tree House

DAY 5: VANCOUVER

Like many people who are first drawn to Vancouver, I dreamed about one day visiting the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge, a 450ft suspension bridge hanging 230ft above the Capilano River. It’s been in magazines, on postcards, and all over social media. Like, did you even visit Vancouver if you didn’t visit Capilano?

The answer is yes .

Here’s why: we were immediately turned off by the (almost) $50CAD entrance fee , per person. Not to mention the advertisements for tour buses and 11am entrance hours. Paying $50CAD for an overcrowded bridge just didn’t seem quite worth it anymore.

But here’s the good news: Where we would have paid for probably 30 minutes at Capilano, we instead spent 2 hours exploring the wilderness around Lynn Canyon. Of course the suspension bridge wasn’t of the same caliber as that at Capilano, but to me, it was even more beautiful. It was also free, less touristy, and perfectly wild for being outside of a major city.

road trip bc

NOTE : the suspension bridge is still a suspension bridge. And, consequently, attracts many visitors regardless of the advertised popularity. So if you want uninterrupted photos on the bridge, test your patience waiting for the perfect shot, or get there early!

If you opt to visit here, allow time to explore the trails that will lead you to aquamarine swimming holes, waterfalls, and through an interpretive nature trail.

Best things to do around Vancouver, British Columbia

When you’re done here, then you’re only 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver! .

Where to stay in Vancouver

Skwachays Aboriginal Themmed Lodge in Vancouver

Budget ($):   HI Hostel Downtown Vancouver and Olympic Village Condo

Moderate ($$):  Skwachàys Aboriginal Themed Lodge and Unique Gastown Loft

Splurge ($$$):   The Douglas and The Burrard

Final Thoughts

Two years ago I had vowed to return to Vancouver after a layover on a cheap flight to Hawaii . Through the plane windows, I had watched the a thick blanket of fog swirling over the mountains around the sound; the city skyline looming in the distance. I returned to British Columbia one year later when we hopped across the border to visit the emerald waters within Yoho National Park during a trip through Alberta. That time, I knew for sure that this province had a hold on me.The

And here I was. Back for a third time. Road tripping the seaside highways from Vancouver to Whistler, rooting myself in moments spent wandering through the Pacific Northwest rain forest, and being sure to take an extra deep breath of alpine air for the road.

There’s something seriously magic about this place. And, still captivated, I know I’ll be back again. .

Get this Vancouver Road Trip on Google Maps

Access the road trip itinerary on an interactive Google Map.  Access the map on Google Map here

British Columbia 5 Day Road Trip on Google Maps

How to Get Around for a British Columbia Road Trip

The best way to complete this itinerary is with a rental car. You don’t need a 4×4 to road trip between Vancouver and Whistler, but I do recommend one for visiting Sloquet Hot Springs.

Best Time to Visit Vancouver

In my opinion, the best time to visit Vancouver, British Columbia is in the shoulder season, which lasts from April – early June and September – October. During these months, you will find great deals on accommodation and a lot of popular hiking trails will be nearly empty. Just be prepared for some rainy, chilly days.

However, if you don’t mind crowds and are willing to pay a bit more, summer is also a great time to for a Vancouver road trip. Long days and good weather are ideal for hiking and road tripping. 

Extend Your British Columbia Road Trip

Have more time to spare? Add another 5 days and extend your Vancouver road trip west onto Vancouver Island.

If you have even more time, add 7 days and drive east toward Alberta to visit Yoho, Banff, Jasper, and Kootenay National Parks. 

Read next: How to Spend 1 Day in Yoho National Park

Always Remember to Leave No Trace

The concept of Leave No Trace is built on seven core principles widely utilized for enjoying the outdoors responsibly and with sustainable, minimum impact.

The Leave No Trace principles apply to all outdoor activities – from the backcountry to local parks to your own backyard. Leave No Trace is based on respect for nature and other visitors. It’s also supported by scientific research conducted on recreation-related impact to our wild places.

In a collective effort to keep the beautiful places listed above wild and free for generations to come, please leave all areas better than you found them and practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace:

  • Plan ahead and be prepared
  • Travel and camp on durable surfaces
  • Dispose of your waste properly – carry out what you carry in
  • Leave what you find
  • Minimize campfire impacts – be aware of campfire rules and regulations
  • Respect wildlife! (Don’t feed the gray jays)
  • Be considerate of other visitors

More for your Canada road trip

Traveling Banff on a Budget: Effective Ways to Save Money on Lodging, Food, and Transportation

1-Day Yoho National Park Road Trip Itinerary

15 Useful Apps to Download Before Your Next Road Trip (for Free!)

Pins for your Pinterest

A 5 Day British Columbia Road Trip Itinerary Pin

Hi, I’m Jackie! I’m a travel photographer and content creator based near the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. I’m also a millennial who works full-time, yet I still find ways to travel frequently without breaking the bank, because traveling is what makes me feel most alive. Now I help fellow travelers who also work 9-5 and are looking for ways to travel more with limited PTO.

Related Posts

road trip bc

How to Spend 2 Days in Yellowstone National Park

road trip bc

Yellowstone National Park Entrances: Which is Best?

road trip bc

Nearest Airports to Yellowstone National Park

One comment.

' src=

Hi Jackie! I enjoyed your blog on the BC 5 day road trip. You really packed a LOT into 5 days!!!! Most of us who live in BC would do that in 1.5 weeks! If you get back to BC I highly recommend getting the paperback version of this book. The New B.C. Roadside Naturalist: A Guide to Nature along B.C. Highways. It’s by a geologist and points out all the interesting bits you are passing by the car window on your travels. BC has a very complex geological history, so it has produced many varied mini-climate zones. Another gem is the BC hot spring spots on FaceBook. Most are off of logging roads but are worth the visit and smallish hikes to access. BC has such a tiny population (other than Vancouver) that we love it when people have enough tenacity to visit all the out of the way places. Another gem is the water access only spots along the coast by eco-tourism “cruise” ship like the MV Uchuck (West coast of Vancouver Island) https://www.getwest.ca/cruises/schedule/ and the Aruroa Marine Link (East coast of Vancouver Island and remote mainland costal and First Nations communities) https://marinelinktours.com/routes/ . Hopefully your editor, sponsor, can fund your adventures on these visits back to BC. It’s well worth it! I sent my parent on both of these “cruises” in their 70’s. They LOVED it as it was not as ecologically sensitive and they got to see the “real” working coast of BC as well as meet some VERY well educated other guest: very influential (retired) ocean biologists and academics who made fascinating dinner guests!!! The food was fabulous – as fresh as it gets seafood every night, made by a very creative chef in a very efficient (aka super small) galley kitchen

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

WANT TO SAVE MONEY TRAVELING?

Check out the travel resources →

Check out my list of reliable budget-friendly travel resources that are guaranteed to save you the most money, without compromising your experience.

This error message is only visible to WordPress admins Error: There is no connected account for the user 17841400792270379.

Get in touch

Contact Portfolio Let’s work together

Explore the blog

Destinations Guides and itineraries Travel planning tips

Let’s connect

Never miss an adventure, privacy policy | terms of service | disclaimer | by zazen designs.

Back to top

  • 21 Unusual Places to Visit in Poland You Must See
  • The Best Cenotes in the Riviera Maya
  • The 7 Best Vacation Destinations for Nature Lovers
  • VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Review
  • Discover the Maya eSIM: Our Exclusive In-Depth Review
  • 27 Helpful Tips for How to Travel More
  • Work With Us

The 10 Best Road Trips in British Columbia, Canada

Looking to hit the road for the best road trips in British Columbia?

We’ve lived in BC for over a decade now, and while we haven’t driven every highway in the province, we’ve definitely taken our share of drives around our beautiful province.

British Columbia is Canada’s most western province. It borders Alberta, and is known for its vast size and natural beauty. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains, BC is world famous for its mountain ranges, lakes and glaciers, as well as rocky beaches, ski resorts and natural beauty.

There are numerous highways and scenic drives in British Columbia that make for some genuinely spectacular road excursions no matter the season, with thousands of valley lakes, mountains, and a largely unknown north.

The best road trips in British Columbia will not only take you through some of the most scenic areas in the province but also in Canada. You can visit the Okanagan Valley and see world class vineyards or drive along the west coast and hang out on beautiful beaches.

If you’re quickly looking for snow-capped mountains, head north from cosmopolitan Vancouver up to Whistler where you can ski or snowboard during winter months or go downhill biking in the summer.

Want to see salmon spawning or visit the Rocky Mountains in its rawest form? British Columbia has both.

Dreaming of warm mountain lakes in summer, natural hot pools year round and great hiking? BC has that in droves.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to take your family on a road trip, or you just want to explore some beautiful sights with your friends, there’s something in BC for everyone.

So whether you’re a local wanting to broaden your range, on vacation traveling with family or friends, or just want to get away from it all, here are some of our favourite drives in BC that will take you off the beaten path and into nature’s playground.

The best road trips in British Columbia, Canada

Whether you have your own car or are looking to rent a vehicle, these are the best road trips in British Columbia to take in the beautiful scenery of this Canadian province.

If you’re in the mood for a guided tour, BC has plenty of bus tours available and if you want to see the province unfettered, traveling the province by motorcycle is an amazing experience. Whether you’re looking for the best motorcycle insurance or want to check out the best things to see and do from Vancouver to Banff , this post has you covered.

The Sunshine Coast – Sunshine Coast Highway

The Sunshine Coast Trail is one of the most popular hikes in BC, and for good reason. It’s located just north of Vancouver on the coast, and offers a variety of different options for hiking. This includes a section that goes right along the water with stunning views of mountains and ocean alike.

What does this have to do with road trips? Well, not only can you stop and hike the trail, but getting there is also a beautiful drive with tons of great coastal views and mountainous backdrops along the way.

A few highlights along this route include the 2 ferry crossings (the first at Horseshoe Bay and the second at Earl’s Cove) with possibilities to see everything from whales to dolphins and even killer whales right from your vehicle. The majority of the drive is 2 paved lanes and large animal sightings are common so keep your eyes open for any fauna in the area including moose, deer, bears, mountain goats and cougars.

If you want to continue your drive once you reach Powell Bay, you can take a ferry over to Vancouver Island where you’ll start your island adventure near Comox.

The Okanagan Valley – Highway 97

The Okanagan Valley is home to some amazing wineries and fruit orchards that have been around before BC was even a province!

Starting up around Vernon and continuing south down to Osoyoos you’ll see some of BC’s prettiest lakes starting with Kalamalka Lake that, depending on the season, can range from cyan to indigo.

As you drive south from Vernon on Highway 97 through Lake Country and get into Kelowna, the heart of BC’s interior, there’s tons of things to do with the family including hanging out along the boardwalk of the 135 km (84 mi) long Okanagan Lake (one of the few lakes in Canada to never freeze in the winter) and grab an ice cream before heading to the beach.

As you continue through West Kelowna (home to great vineyards like Mission Hill and Quails Gate) you’ll soon find yourself driving through towns named Peachland and Summerland (great names right!) before arriving in Penticton . Make sure to walk the boardwalk in town before continuing your drive south down to Osoyoos, the warmest city in Canada!

If you love vineyards and cideries, there are literally hundreds in the Okanagan Valley with many just off the highway so pick up a winery guide available nearly everywhere in the valley before you start your Okanagan BC roadtrip.

The Coquihalla Highway – Highway 5N

The stretch of highway from Hope to Kamloops has 2 things in abundance, beautiful scenery and infamous notoriety. The Coquihalla features gorgeous mountain rivers and some beautiful mountain vistas however it’s also the star in a show called Highway Thru Hell, depicting the sometimes hazardous conditions that can occur during the winter months. Since it is a high mountain highway through some unforgiving terrain, there is some merit to the legends but if in doubt, check out the Drive BC website and just pay attention to the weather.

That said, the Coq was originally built as a connector to speed up the route that the Trans Canada highway originally took as it made its way west. While the drive is indeed faster via the Coquihalla, the beauty of the drive is also unmistakable.

If you’re feeling the urge for a hot soak, veer off the highway near Bridal Falls to check out Harrison Hot Springs .

As you leave Hope via Highway 3 East (make sure your tank is full since the next gas station in Merritt is 120km or just over an hour away), you’ll quickly jump onto Highway 5 heading to Merritt and Kamloops. If you want to get out and stretch your legs, the Othello Tunnels just past Hope are worth a hike

As you pull into Merritt itself (most of the town is to the north of the highway), you can now choose to continue northeast on Highway 5 to Kamloops or head southeast down Highway 97C to Kelowna and the Okanagan valley.

If you’re planning to drive right through either cities as you continue east, the drive south toward Kelowna will add half an hour to your journey however it is a prettier drive by far and takes you through several small towns and cities.

The Island Drive – Highway 1 and Highway 19

Though not officially called The Island Drive, navigating this section of Vancouver Island definitely fits the bill. As you leave Victoria, the Victorian architecture filled capital of British Columbia, and head north on Highway 1, you’ll pass quaint villages, pretty murals and get the occasional sweeping views of the ocean and the Gulf Islands.

There are hundreds of places to stop along the way to grab a bite to eat, hike or shop however there are a few wineries and cideries around Cobble Hill that are worth checking out. If you want a quick hike, it’s also worth checking the Kinsol Trestle just before Cobble Hill. It’s one of the tallest free-standing timber rail trestle structures in the world and is amazing to see. It’s part of the Cowichan Valley Trail and is a popular hiking area.

Nanaimo is the next major city on the way north. It’s not a bad place to stock up supplies for your Qualicum Beach stay (if you’re planning a short vacay) and is also the other major ferry terminal if you want to hitch a ferry back to the mainland.

As you continue north you’ll eventually reach picturesque Nanoose Bay and then Parksville, another major waterside destination in its own right though the long sandy beaches along Qualicum Beach are usually what attract the crowds.

While in the region, make sure to check out the Goats on the Roof (literally) at the Old Country Market as well as the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. Both are great places to take the kids and hang out for a few hours.

The Sea-to-Sky Highway – Highway 99

Not many people who visit Vancouver, often ranked as one of the best cities on earth, don’t take a day or two to make their way up to Whistler, BC’s premiere ski destination. The hour and a half roadtrip north up Highway 99 is filled with gorgeous ocean and mountain views and passes through Squamish, an outdoor lovers playground.

With everything from rock climbing to Bald Eagle viewing tours in the winter (it held the largest eagle viewing count in the world at 3769 with around 1300 spotted most given years), if you like the outdoors then likely Squamish has something for you. Squamish is also home to the wonderful Sea to Sky Gondola, a year round engineering marvel that zips you to the top in comfort with plenty of trails on either landings.

As you drive into Whistler, it’s quickly evident why it’s touted as an adventurers destination with a myriad of activities for the outdoor enthusiasts. After hitting the slopes, make sure to check out the town centre (known as The Village) with great shopping, restaurants and pubs open year round. Though we often think of Whistler as a winter destination, there are plenty of activities there happening year round.

Visiting in the summer? Check out  Porteau Cove Provincial Park , a popular scuba diving destination with artificial shipwrecks and reefs supporting a huge variety of marine life, such as octopus, lingcod and starfish just minutes north of Horseshoe Bay. Don’t know how to dive? Take a course or explore the rocky beaches and go swimming in the ocean for a nice break from your road trip.

The Glacier Drive – Highway 5 and Highway 16

While Jasper isn’t technically in BC (it’s 20km from the BC/Alberta border), the vast majority of this drive is in British Columbia and it’s a beautiful road trip through valleys and mountains, with a few great sites along the way.

As you head up Highway 5 north from Kamloops, a great little city fronting the beautiful Thompson River and home to the BC Wildlife Park , you’ll pass wide open valleys that soon turns into winding mountain passes. The nicest part about this Kamloops to Jasper road trip is that the highway follows along the North Thompson River for a sizable portion of the drive, which makes for a great backdrop and gorgeous views.

Along the way, you can check out some amazing waterfalls or go whitewater rafting around Clearwater. If you don’t have time to check them out but want to stretch your legs, check out either North Thompson River Provincial Park right before Clearwater or the Blue River Provincial Park. Both are right along the highway and are easy to pull off into.

As you turn right (North) onto Highway 16 (known as the Yellowhead Highway) you’ll have another few places to stop with Rearguard Falls Provincial Park just on the right and then the Mount Robson visitor centre with Mt. Robson (the tallest mountain in the Rockies) as a nice backdrop. If you’re an avid hiker, the Berg Lake Trail (23km) is often considered one of the top 5 best hikes in Canada with plenty of gorgeous scenery and wildlife spotting.

Pulling into Jasper, it’s easy to see why it’s touted as one of the best destinations in Canada. From the stunning water colors of the Athabasca River and surrounding lakes, to its proximity to glaciers and icefields to the Sky Tram and Marmot Basin ski resort it has plenty to see and do including Canada’s best Dark Sky festival .

If you have the time, there are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Canada less than an hour from Clearwater. Helmcken Falls, the 4th largest waterfall in Canada, in gorgeous Wells Gray Park is just one of them. You can also check out both Spahats Falls and Dawson Falls while on the way. Total time to Helmcken Falls is around 45 minutes (44km) one way.

The Cathedral Drive – Highway 4

Parksville to Port Alberni (Vancouver Island) – 50km (31mi) – 44mins

We only discovered this route a few years ago when visiting Port Alberni for the first time but it’s a quick, gorgeous drive through old growth forests and one of the prettiest walkways you’ll find on Vancouver Island.

Just as you pass picturesque Cameron Lake, past the halfway point of your journey, lies Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. This trail leads to the most accessible giant Douglas fir tree stands on Vancouver Island. You can walk the short number of trails under the shadow of giant Douglas-fir trees with some more than 800 years old.

Due to some severe windstorms over the years, some of the ancient trees have fallen and the park and trails are continually being monitored and repaired. Make sure you check to make sure it’s open if you decide to make the trip out there.

The Rocky Mountain Pass – Highway 1

The Rocky Mountains are a some of the most mountainous terrain in the world however the drive through them is often a very pleasant experience. Similar to Jasper, Lake Louise is only 10km from the BC/Alberta border so the majority of this road trip takes place in British Columbia.

Along the way, you’ll drive over Canada’s highest mountain pass, see a few hot pools, look up at the second tallest waterfall in Canada, traverse the premiere whitewater rafting river in the country plus witness some of the best scenery Canada has to offer.

Leaving east down Highway 1 from Revelstoke, a former train station hub and home to the great Revelstoke Mountain resort and Pipe Mountain Coaster, a 1.4km all downhill rollercoaster that barrels your way down a mountain, you’ll soon hit a series of boardwalks and trails. The one you don’t want to miss is Giant Cedars Boardwalk, a quick 20 minute walk through some extremely large cedar trees.

Right after that you have Canyon Hot Springs resort with a nice set of hot pools and soon after that you’ll be climbing through Roger’s Pass, the highest point along Canada’s 8000+km TransCanada highway.

As you arrive into Golden, Canada’s whitewater rafting capital, there are a myriad of adventures you can partake in like whitewater rafting or checking out the Golden SkyBridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge and zipline site. After Golden you have Field, a cute mountain town with nearby access to Takakkaw Falls, Canada’s 2nd highest waterfall and around 10 minutes off the highway.

Once you arrive in Lake Louise, you’ll want to check out the gorgeous turquoise lake the town is famous next to stunning Chateau Lake Louise. There are some great hikes around the area and if you happen to be there in winter, Lake Louise Resort is considered one of the best ski resorts in Alberta.

If you want to read about more things to do along British Columbia’s TransCanada Highway, check out our ultimate Vancouver to Banff road trip guide .

The Pacific Rim – Highway 4

Traveling on Highway 4 west from Port Alberni to the coastal side of Vancouver Island is a leisurely affair with some beautiful coastal roads, some old growth forests and plenty of sights along the way.

As you leave Port Alberni, a small city on the Alberni Inlet, Vancouver Island’s longest ocean inlet, you’ll quickly pass Sproat Lake, a 4 season area with lakeside cabins and camping sites popular with fishermen and boaters alike. Next, you have Wally Creek. Right beside the highway with parking spaces, this is a perfect spot to jump in and cool off in the cristal clear blue water.

Continuing on you finally arrive at the coast. If you want to explore some of the natural beauty of the Pacific Rim National Park, now’s a great time to stop and grab a pass at the Pacific Rim Visitor centre. If you want a small detour, feel free to head south down to Ucluelet while first stopping off for a short walk around the Ancient Cedars Loop Trail.

To the north and towards our final destination of Tofino, another great walk is the Rainforest Trail that is a wood boardwalk & gravel trail through a veritable forest of cedar & hemlock trees covered in moss.

Next you have the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve with a tiny tourist town (Long Beach) on the edge of a nature lovers coastal retreat. Near endless stretches of beach attract surfers year-round however most visit simply to watch the waves and walk the miles of sand.

Soon you’ll be at the end of your road trip and driving into Tofino proper. This cozy town on the edge of the world is popular with surfers, nature lovers, whale watchers and hikers. In summer the population swells but it’s also a popular area year round with some great chefs and restaurants calling the town home.

Another popular surfing and beach spot in the area is Chesterman Beach on the southern outskirts of Tofino. There are plenty of inns and hotels in the area if you plan to stay for a few days.

The Kootenays – Highway 6, 31A, 31 and 3A

Unfettered nature is the best way to describe this road trip through British Columbia’s fabled Kootenays. Gorgeous lakes, relaxing hot springs, swaths of forests and a ferry ride are all highlights of this drive.

We first start in Nakusp, a nice beach village on the edge of the rather long Upper Arrow Lake. The Nakusp region is always busy in summer and has a gorgeous beach with clear water. As you head southeast out of town on Highway 6, you’ll soon be driving parallel to picturesque Slocan Lake. As you arrive into New Denver, a quaint village along the lake bank, you’ll soon be heading due east on Highway 31A.

As you drive over the Kokanee Glacier ranges, you’ll eventually reach Kaslo, a village on the west shore of Kootenay Lake in the West Kootenay region. If you want to stretch your legs, a quick walk along the Kaslo River Trail in town is a nice diversion and there’s a few good restaurants here as well. Further south of Kaslo, Fletcher Falls makes a great short pit stop with some nice little falls just off the highway.

Next we have Ainsworth Hot Springs, a favorite place of ours with some really nice hot springs and a heated hot springs cave. There’s also a delicious restaurant on site as well and if you stay in the hotel, the hot springs are included. Otherwise, they offer day passes for visitors.

After a lovely drive south along along Kootenay Lake we arrive in Belfour where it’s time to jump on a ferry over to Kootenay Bay as we continue down Highway 3A. The highway itself follows Kootenay Lake all the way towards Creston so don’t worry about getting lost now. Creston itself is a valley town with a variety of amenities, hotels and restaurants plus a few wineries and the Columbia Brewery (home of Kokanee beer) that gives brewery tours. If you’re there in summer, make sure to check out the wetlands at the Kootenay-Columbia Discovery Centre .

To get to Nakusp, you can either head due south from Revelstoke on Highway 23 or head east from Vernon on highway 6. Either roads are great however the additional cable ferry ride from Needle to Fauquier is a great bonus when driving in from Vernon and there are some great views and awesome lakes, namely Mable Lake, Sugar Lake and Echo Lake just off Highway 6 that are worth checking out as well if you have time.

Bonus Road Trip – The Island Highway – Highway 19N

Since no list is ever complete, we’ve decided to throw this last BC road trip in as a bonus. It starts in picturesque Comox.

In Comox you can check out the fisherman’s wharf or one of the numerous beaches such as Goose Spit Park. Kite surfing is a popular pastime here as well you’ll likely see some kites flashing by as you walk the many beaches.

Heading north up Highway 19, you’ll soon be arriving in Campbell River. The city is a very popular whale watching center as well as famously hosting grizzly bear tours. Either tour can be booked well in advance with several companies and some even guarantee a sighting or your next tour is on them. Another popular activity here is heading to Elk Falls Suspension Bridge with it’s large suspension bridge and waterfall as well as checking out the Quinsam Salmon Hatchery, one of the largest salmon hatcheries in Canada.

Continuing past Campbell River (make sure you fill up before leaving) you have a lot of land to cover that includes a few rivers plus a lake before getting back to the coast. Soon you’ll be pulling in to Port Hardy and able to check out the many beaches and marinas plus a plethora of day trips to places like God’s Pocket Marine Preserve to view sea lions. Taking a guided kayak tour is a definite must if the weather is nice.

You can get to Comox from the mainland via a BC ferry from Powell River so if you’ve done the road trip there then this route is a natural progression of it. You can also take a ferry from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert. If you plan to do this 16 hour ferry, renting a room on board is a great way to relax and see everything along the way.

Final notes on the best road trips in BC

After having our home base in BC for over a decade, we’ve had the opportunity to see a large portion of it and can never get enough of the beautiful scenery, the friendly people and the wild beauty. While this list isn’t exhaustive, we hope it gives you a few ideas of some of the best road trips in British Columbia and inspires you to visit and see the province for yourself.

Think we missed a hidden gem? We’d love to hear about it below. Safe travels.

Before travel to Canada this article is so helpful thank you 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

7 scenic drives through BC

The Sea-to-Sky Highway

Things to do

British Columbia is big and beautiful. Every corner of the province has some outstanding piece of nature, gorgeous panoramic view, or unique cultural experience that makes it worth visiting. But why stop at one?

There are a multitude of scenic drives External Link Title around BC that will bring you from amazing stop to amazing stop. Whether you want to hit the road for a few weeks with friends, or need to shove as much scenery as possible into a few days, here are seven routes that show off the best of BC.

The Sea-to-Sky Highway

1.  The Sea-to-Sky Highway

That old saying that it isn't about the destination but the journey, that starts to make sense as you drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway External Link Title . This stretch of winding road between Vancouver and Whistler really earns its name. With the blue waters on one side, cliff sides on the other, and nothing but blue skies ahead of you, you really feel like you've left civilization in your rearview mirror. The Sea-to-Sky will blow you away by way of spectacular waterfalls, rivers, canyons, and mountains, as well as several towns along the route. Keep your eyes peeled for the handy roadside 'Tourist Attraction' signs. The route is also rich with First Nations history with seven  Cultural Journey interpretive kiosks External Link Title  along the journey - each designed in the shape of cedar-bark hats, where you can engage with the mystery with First Nations oral history, supernatural beings and place names.

Starting point : Vancouver Length : 82 miles Time : < 1 day Essential stops : Britannia Beach, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, the Sea to Sky Gondola, the Stawamus Chief, the 'Peak 2 Peak' Gondola. Read more about the Sea-to-Sky route External Link Title .

2. The Pacific Marine Circle Route

A good choice for time-pressed foodies, the Pacific Marine Circle Route External Link Title packs in surf-tossed beaches, old-growth forest, BC's second-largest wine country, some of Canada's best restaurants and all the delights of the capital, all within just a few hours of driving. Starting in Victoria, on Vancouver Island's southern tip, the route heads west, past the culinary hot spot of Sooke, to the big surf beaches of the southwest coast and the rolling vineyard-draped hills of the Cowichan Valley wine country. The panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait alone are worth the drive.

Starting point : Victoria Length : 158 miles Time : 1 to 3 days Essential stops : Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, BC Forest Discovery Centre, Totem Tour. Read more about the Pacific Marine Circle Route External Link Title .

Surfing in Tofino

3. Vancouver to Tofino

Rent your choice of wheels, be a vintage Volkswagen, luxury SUV or motorbike, and head out on the drive from Vancouver to Tofino External Link Title . This scenic drive brings you from the big city to the big waves. You'll leave Vancouver, hop on a ferry to Vancouver Island, and drive right through massive old growth forests on the way to the surf capital of Canada. Along the way you'll want to stop a half dozen times for unreal hikes, sandy beaches that stretch on forever, and consistently breathtaking stunning scenery.

Starting point : Vancouver Length : 188 miles Time : 1 to 3 days Essential Stops : MacMillan Provincial Park, Ucluelet Aquarium, the Wild Pacific Trail, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Read more about the Vancouver to Tofino route External Link Title .

4. The Coastal Circle Route

It is seascapes, beaches, and driftwood all the way on the Coastal Circle Route External Link Title , which brings you up Vancouver Island's eastern shore and back down the famous Sunshine Coast. This journey includes at least four ferry rides -- more if you opt to explore some of the smaller islands on the way -- and can take anywhere from a few days to a week. Visit BC's artists and artisans where they live, work and showcase their art. Galleries, studios, funky little arts towns, stunning gardens, intriguing First Nations sites, wineries, organic farms -- and two major cities -- are all highlights of this seaside odyssey.

Starting point : Vancouver Length : 351 miles Time : 3 to 7 days Essential Stops : Butchart Gardens, Comox Air Force Museum, Historic Lund Hotel, Sechelt. Read more about the Coastal Circle Route. External Link Title

Mission Hill Family Estate Winery Vineyards

5. The Mountains & Vineyards Circle Route

The Mountains & Vineyards Circle Route External Link Title is really all about indulgence. The drive follows a visit to wine country with a tour of hot springs resorts. Starting in Golden, an outdoor adventure center in the Kootenay Rockies, this tour of southeastern BC takes drivers along the lakes and vineyards of the Okanagan Valley, through Canada's only true desert, and past the peaks and glaciers of the Rocky Mountains. Championship golf courses, lift-accessed hiking and mountain biking, historic towns, mountains resorts and, of course, hot springs and wineries will make it tough to get back in the car.

Starting point : Golden Length : 783 miles Time : 7 to 10 days Essential Stops : Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Yoho National Park, Kimberley Alpine Resort, Columbia Gardens Vineyard & Winery. Read more about the Mountains & Vineyards Circle Route External Link Title .

6. The Hot Springs Circle Route

Seven days, seven hot springs. The Hot Springs Route External Link Title through BC's Kootenay Rockies region visits a string of natural pools, from lavish resorts to secret dips in the woods. Cruise through some of the world's most stunning lake and mountain scenery, with plenty of railway history, mountain resorts, wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure thrown in.

Starting point : Cranbrook Length : 529 miles Time : 7 days Essential Stops : Fairmont Hot Springs, Kootenay National Park, Mount Revelstoke, Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area. Read more about the Hot Springs Circle Route External Link Title .

The Northern Lights on the Great Northern Circle Route

7. The Great Northern Circle Route

We saved the longest for last. The legendary Alaska Highway is the stuff of many life lists. It's also just the beginning of this odyssey through Northern BC and into the Yukon. The Great Northern Circle Route External Link Title is home to stone sheep, moose, grizzly and black bear, a natural hot springs pool, ancient stands of totems, legendary fishing, glaciers, the Northern Lights, First Nations culture and Fur Trade history. The route starts and finishes in Prince George, which has road and air access to the rest of the province.

Starting point : Prince George Length : 1985 miles Time : 10+ days Essential Stops : Muncho Lake Provincial Park, Boya Lake Provincial Park, Bear Glacier, Salmon Glacier, Fort St. James National Historic Site. Read more about the Great Northern Circle Route External Link Title .

For maps, directions and more routes to check out, visit the Hello BC website

Get inspired

Other articles you might enjoy

An elegant meal laid out on a picnic table, next to a blue lake at the bottom of a mountain

Whistler: The Perfect Spot for a Heli-Picnic

A skier descends a powdery white mountain lined with snow-topped trees

A How-To Guide to Vancouver Skiing

Two people talking on a sunny bridge

Find Yourself in Vancouver: A 3-Day Guide

Two beachgoers wrapped in pride flags sit on the shore together

Discover LGBTQ2+ British Columbia

Tantalus Lookout

Vancouver to Whistler: a 3-day itinerary

Dempster Highway, Yukon

The top fall destinations across Canada

road trip bc

The mountains of BC: a ski and snowboard paradise

Fall Colours in Canada

Where to see fall colors in Canada

glamping under the night sky

Best camping in Canada – with a twist

road trip bc

No products in the basket.

We Are Global Travellers

A guide to planning a British Columbia road trip, Canada

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

If you’re planning a  British Columbia  road trip, this is the post for you.  Canada , along with  Australia , is without a doubt one of  my favourite places on earth.

There are so many epic reasons to visit British Columbia and in this blog post I am going to share the best things to do in BC, the adventures that stood out to me the most and the things I can’t wait to come back and explore next time (recommendations that we didn’t have time to fit in).

Canada for me is of those places that feel like home. I first went to  Edmonton  and  Jasper , followed by some time in  Banff in summer , and have recently been to  Vancouver Island  and  Vancouver city !

British Columbia  is Canada’s most western province and one that I recently got to dive a little deeper into when I headed out on a Hot Springs road trip through the Kootenay Rockies.   See the 7 day road trip itinerary here.

Other travel guides and posts on my blog that you may enjoy:

  • The best things to do in Canada: The ultimate bucket list
  • A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip, Canada
  • How to budget for a road trip through the Canadian Rockies
  • A 7-day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary
  • The best things to do and see on Vancouver Island
  • Exploring Vancouver during summer: A complete guide

See my ’12 photos that will make you want to visit the Kootenay Rockies, British Columbia’  here .

EXPLORE CANADA ON MY BLOG HERE

 www.explore-canada.co.uk #ExploreCanada

A 1 week road trip itinerary through the Kootenay Rockies, Canada

*This blog post has been bought to life and is sponsored by Destination Canada who hosted us for the trip. We were sent out on an itinerary put together and supported by Destination British Columbia to document and share this region with you. All photos and opinions are completely my own.

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip…

Booking your flights….

In terms of airports, there are quite a few to choose from. However if you’re flying in internationally, you’ll want to go with Vancouver or Calgary (actually located in Alberta but a quick drive across).

It’s worth having a look on  Skyscanner  to see the price difference as it may be an idea to work your itinerary around the cheaper location if it’s significantly different in price. Otherwise work out your adventure route through British Columbia and  take a look at flights  after.

Check out flights on  Skyscanner here.

Here are my  top tips for surviving long haul flights!

Getting a visa…

Ahead of your trip, you’ll need to get yourself an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). The Canadian Government website will take you through all the information, eligibility and application process – it’s super quick.

I got mine 3 days before I travelled from the UK and it came through to my email straight away. It cost $7 CAD.

Visit the website and get your ETA here.

Deciding what kind of trip you’d like…

British Columbia has  a lot  to offer and can cater for all walks of life. When I was in the Kootenay region I noticed an abundance of golf courses. Honestly, they were everywhere! I’d never have thought of Canada as a hot golfing location. If you like golf, you could fill an entire 2 weeks with courses that have a 360 pano of the mountains!

Things to look at and consider when planning your British Columbia road trip:

  • The Powder Highway  (an epic ski road trip)
  • A mountain, rainforest and inside passage  motorbike road trip .
  • Sea-to-Sky highway
  • The lakes and trails circle route
  • The  ranchlands and rivers circle route.
  • Check out all of the golf courses in British Columbia  here .

How long have you got to play with for your British Columbia adventure?

British Columbia spans an area of 944,735 km² lol, so whatever time you’re planning (even if you plan to move) is not going to be nearly enough to see  everything . British Columbia is also way too beautiful to rush through (you’ll be the only one pacing) so narrow down the kind of adventure you’re after and allow yourself time to take in the culture and energy. That’s half of the beauty. The way of life over in Canada.

I would suggest minimum of a week if you’re open to a suggestion. Two weeks would make for a dreamy road trip with enough time to stop and stay somewhere a little longer when your heart is captured (inevitable).

1-week British Columbia itineraries:

  • Fly into Calgary, drive the  Hot Springs Route,  fly out of Calgary.
  • Fly into  Vancouver , explore, take the ferry to  Vancouver Island , explore, fly out of Vancouver.
  • 1 week Vancouver Coast and Mountains Road Trip up the Sea-to-Sky Highway via Squamish and Whistler to Pemberton
  • 1 week head north on  Vancouver Island  from Victoria to Campbell River or Port Hardy for access to untouched wilderness and Indigenous culture

2-week British Columbia itineraries:

  • Fly into Calgary, drive the  Hot Springs Route,  drive on to  Vancouver,  explore, fly out of Vancouver.
  • Fly into  Vancouver , explore, drive to Whistler, ski, drive to Revelstoke and do  the Powder Highway route,  fly out of Calgary
  • 2-week Vancouver and the Thompson Okanagan itinerary. Take Route 97 through BC’s famous wine and lake country and check out the Province buzzing farm-to-fork dining scene
  • Fly into Calgary and enjoy all the snow adventure on  the Powder Highway route

15 best things to do in British Columbia:

1. you are in bear territory and seeing them in the flesh is one of the most magical experiences in the entire world..

The  first time I went to Canada  was in October and didn’t see any bears. Second time I went in July  (Alberta)  and saw one road side. Third time in British Columbia at the beginning of June we saw eight. I have a feeling our sightings were a combination of the timing, as they come out of hibernation to hunt, and the fact we were in the Kootenay’s driving the roads less travelled.

2. Carve your way through alpine bowls, rainforests and glaciers in one of these ski resorts.

Wild just got wilder. You’re not ready for this.  View the ski resorts on offer in British Columbia here.

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip, Canada

Bear lovers should check out  this Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary , through Yoho, Banff and Jasper National Parks, where I got to visit a grizzly bear sanctuary.

3. There’s some serious Geothermal activity going on. Hello all the Hot Springs.

Spend a week going from one natural mineral pool to the next and leave feeling completely rejuvenated.  See my 7 day hot springs road trip itinerary here.

4.  You are in outdoor adventure heaven. British Columbia is all about getting outdoors and into nature.

Here’s just a few activities you can engage in:

  • Kokanee Mountain Ziplines:  See website here.
  • White n Wild Snow Mobiling Tours in Golden:  See website here.
  • Off The Grid Wake Sports in Kelowna:  See website here.

Check out my  beginner’s guide to hiking here.

Here are 18 top tips for your first hike!

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip, Canada

5. You won’t fall short of a brewery with a mountain view. I can assure you of that.

We went to a beautiful local one in Golden called Whitetooth Brewing Co. The sun was shining, the mountains were alive and we had 5 samples of the local brews on the outside bench seating. One of those moment where you’re like ‘this is life’.

6. The drives are next level. Think mountains, glaciers, bears, forests, national parks and lakes from the seat of your car.

You just cannot get better than this. You have to almost kick yourself back into a touch after a couple of days because the insane views become so ‘ normal’.  One thing the views in Canada are not, is normal.

7. Local produce is the finest kind. British Columbia heavily supports local production.

It was so lovely to see the same brands popping up throughout our British Columbia road trip as we ventured through the towns. Instead of the ‘big brands’ taking over every cafe, store and bar, we saw locally produced goods popping up everywhere. There are many towns that actually have laws to stop big chain stores operating in them.

Make sure you check out Stoke Cold Pressed Juice, Wild Mountain Chocolate and Kicking Horse Coffee whilst you’re in the region!

8. You can go whale watching.

YES YOU CAN! See my  guide to Vancouver Island here.

9. Vancouver is the perfect gateway for an epic Pacific North West road trip.

I’m basically hinting that you go on a 6 month sabbatical. Think big. If you’ve got the time there’s an abundance to explore up and down the  Vancouver  coastline! Why not plan a huge adventure!

Here’s my guide to Vancouver Island.

Here’s how to have the best time in Vancouver

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip, Canada

10. The people are ridiculously friendly and seemingly always up for a good time or a conversation.

There must be something in the water or in the air. In fact, I think it’s because there’s nothing in the latter. Conversation and adventure at its purest.

11. You get beautiful sunny summers and seriously snowy winters. Mountain life in abundance.

Canada is a mountain lover’s dream!

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip, Canada

Here’s my complete guide to Banff in summer.

12. Poutine and maple syrup.

The ‘Canadian’ must tries. It’s not a trip without them.

13. Wine regions in Okanagan Valley.

The Okanagan valley is somewhere I’m dying to get to. It’s known as the Tuscany of Canada and is where wineries meet lakes – one of the top wine regions in Canada.

14. Squamish, ‘the adventure capital’.

Another I’m yet to visit. Accessible as a day trip from  Vancouver  or great for a holiday in itself. Here you can bask amongst a wealth of activity including and not restricted to: rock climbing, kiteboarding, mountain biking, cross country skiing, bouldering.

15. The spirit bear is here!

The  Great Bear Rainforest  is the only place in the world where you can see the Kermode (spirit) bear. There are apparently only 400 of them left in the wild. The Great Bear Rainforest itself is the world’s largest intact temperate rainforest, and has been called the Amazon of the North.

Visit the official British Columbia website  here  or search @hellobc #ExploreBC #ExploreCanada on Instagram to see more.

Have you been on British Columbia road trip?

What were your favourite spots? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip, Canada

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

road trip bc

Shop the google map legends

Search by adventure type, active travel, backpacking, budget travel, love and relationships, once in a lifetime, packing tips, solo travel, weekend getaways, where's mollie newsletter, travel shop, search by destination, other posts that you may like....

Best podcasts to listen to in 2021

Best podcasts to listen to in 2021

The Ultimate Vorarlberg Roadtrip Austria, Grosses Walstertal and Bregenzerwald

A bucket list of adventures in Austria

A complete guide to Antarctica

A complete guide to Antarctica

Punakaiki 1-The Ultimate Two Week Roadtrip in New Zealand- Where's Mollie-9

The ultimate 2-week road trip itinerary for New Zealand

A Brisbane travel guide: The best things to do and see

A Brisbane travel guide: The best things to do and see

Birthday weekend | deaf havana, nirvana spa.

The best things to do in Madeira

The best things to do in Madeira, Portugal

Everything you need to know about travelling Greyhound in Australia

Everything you need to know about travelling with Greyhound Australia

Downside To A Life Filled With Travel | Where's Mollie? A UK Travel and Lifestyle Blog

The Downsides To A Life Filled With Travel

Privacy overview.

PAID CONTENT FOR TRAILFINDERS

Exploring British Columbia: two itineraries for the ultimate road trip

Okanagan Valley is home to mountain lookouts, biking trails, watersports and a lively local food scene — not to mention some of Canada’s warmest weather. This is Vaseux Lake, popular for both watersports and fishing. 

British Columbia is big, beautiful and captivating. At 365,000sq miles, Canada's westernmost province is almost four times the size of Great Britain, and abounds with blockbuster landscapes — think ancient forests, glistening lakes and hulking mountain peaks. But planning the ultimate road trip can be daunting, so where do you start? We turn to travel experts Trailfinders for two adventure-packed, fly-drive itineraries that encapsulate the very best of this exciting province.

ROUTE ONE HIGHLIGHTS

Vancouver to the Okanagan Valley Number of days: 17 This route starts in Vancouver and takes in Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Okanagan Valley wine region.

Vancouver Look elsewhere for your pent-up urban jungle. Vancouver famously enjoys a reputation as a kind of West Coast lotus land, an image helped in no small part by the mountains, bays and harbours that sit on its doorstep. This is a city where the big-name sights are few, but the enjoyable diversions are countless, whether you’re exploring by bike, ducking into museums or simply strolling between coffeeshops and independent stores. Don’t miss the 5.5-mile seawall stroll around Stanley Park and expect to eat well — the dining options are every bit as enjoyable as you’d expect from this city of 2.6 million.  

Sunshine Coast This 110-mile stretch of super-sized, come-hither coastline begins across the Howe Sound from Vancouver, a little way north of the city. Covering the traditional territories of four different Indigenous groups, it combines classic BC scenery — imposing mountains, thick temperate rainforest, deep inlets — with the chance to understand more about some of Canada’s oldest cultures. You’ll be staying at the cliff-perched West Coast Wilderness Lodge, which serves up exactly what it says on the tin: the opportunity to experience the area’s wildlife-roamed scenery first-hand, with kayaking and hiking both on offer.

Whistler, the province's adventure capital, is ringed by giant peaks, drawing winter sport devotees in the ...

Whistler, the province's adventure capital, is ringed by giant peaks, drawing winter sport devotees in the colder months and trail-hungry outdoor-lovers when the snow clears.

Whistler You know what you’re getting with Whistler. The province’s adventure capital is ringed by giant peaks, drawing winter sport devotees in the colder months and trail-hungry outdoor-lovers when the snow clears. The journey here from the coast — along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway — has become an attraction in itself, while the resort is well geared to visitors of all interests and abilities, from serious downhill bikers and whitewater rafters to those who just prefer to wallow in the mountain scenery. And Whistler’s unusual name? It comes from the high-pitched calls of the marmots that find a home on the area’s alpine slopes. 

Cariboo Also named after a native animal — in this case the once-abundant caribou — the Cariboo region stretches across a vast mountain-backed plateau and offers a completely different taste of British Columbia. This section of the itinerary includes three nights at the Big Bar Guest Ranch, an Indigeneous-owned ranch where you’ll have the chance to saddle up and sample the cowboy lifestyle, with daily rides into the surrounding widescreen scenery. Expect warm hospitality, big views and a touch of Wild West adventure.     

Okanagan Valley Thirsty? You’re in luck. Hundreds of wineries line the fertile Okanagan Valley, clustered around a string of scenic lakes. You’ll have three nights in the region, staying in your choice of either Kelowna or Osoyoos (handily, both are prime locations for oenophiles). The valley is particularly renowned for its dry red and white vintages, but there’s more to the place than award-winning wines. As well as fruit orchards, you’ll also find mountain lookouts, biking trails, watersports and a lively local food scene — not to mention some of Canada’s warmest weather.       

road trip bc

The lakeside city of Kelowna is home to more than 30 local vineyards. 

ROUTE TWO HIGHLIGHTS

Canmore to Emerald Lake Number of days: 15 Starting over the border in Alberta, this route then heads into the Rocky Mountains, before making its own stop in the Okanagan Valley and finally travelling north to Emerald Lake.

Canmore After arriving in Calgary and spending the evening there, the first stop on the road is Canmore, a handsome little settlement backdropped by the serried summits of the Rockies. The town sits on the edge of Banff National Park and has traditionally been seen as one of the region’s best-kept secrets, offering visitors plenty of opportunity for wilderness walks and mountain adventures. Local tours visit one of Canada’s longest caves and there’s even the chance to take a scenic helicopter flight above the majestic Rockies. The town started life as a mining hub — Canmore Museum explores this past — but its plum location has turned it into a magnet for everyone from mountain bikers to rock climbers.   

Kelowna More than 30 local vineyards surround the lakeside city of Kelowna, meaning your time here gives the chance to sip and savour, as well as sightsee. The city itself is considered the ‘capital’ of the Okanagan Valley, but it’s a long way from being a heaving metropolis. City Park offers an attractive swathe of waterfront greenery (with its own sandy beach, no less), and the so-called Cultural District is lined with theatres, museums, galleries and public art. The sweeping outdoor scenery that backdrops daily life, meanwhile, makes Kelowna the perfect place to combine wine, wilderness and watching the world go by.

Nelson, slung along the shore of Kootenay Lake and surrounded by the peaks of the Selkirk ...

Nelson, slung along the shore of Kootenay Lake and surrounded by the peaks of the Selkirk Mountains, is home to art galleries, street musicians and craft breweries, as well as a colourful spread of independent stores.

Nelson Slung along the shore of Kootenay Lake and surrounded by the peaks of the Selkirk Mountains, the town of Nelson feels pleasingly remote. The town’s cafes and cultural attractions fizz with life, to the point where Nelson was named the Number One Small Town Arts Community in Canada. Expect art galleries, street musicians and craft breweries, as well as a colourful spread of independent stores and more restaurants per capita than San Francisco. For outdoor nuts, meanwhile, the hiking, biking and kayaking are all top-notch.

Osoyoos One of the prettiest towns in the Okanagan Valley, Osoyoos stretches across a narrow isthmus that bisects a large, glassy lake, the whole scene overlooked by rolling green hills dotted with vineyards. As the setting suggests, it’s a place for taking it easy. Take a wild swim in the lake, try stargazing on nearby Mount Kobau or visit Spotted Lake, a sacred Indigenous site. Back in town, meanwhile, you’ll enjoy excellent food and drink, with the valley’s widely renowned wines just waiting to be sampled.       

Emerald Lake With its vivid turquoise waters framed by pencil-thin pines and jagged mountainscapes, Emerald Lake is the kind of ludicrously photogenic spot that has become Western Canada’s stock in trade. The largest of the 60-plus lakes in Yoho National Park is beautiful — and these days an understandably popular visitor destination — and first found fame in 1882, when a mountain guide stumbled upon it while rounding up horses. Today, the hour-long walk around its perimeter is one of the most manageable hikes in the Rockies. The lake’s remarkable colour is down to the limestone ‘dust’ in the glacial meltwaters.

These routes are highlights from the Best of British Columbia and  Kootenay Rockies & Okanagan Valley Loop itineraries available to book with Trailfinders .

Read more about British Columbia .

Find National Geographic Traveller (UK) on social media

Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter

This content is created for Trailfinders. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic, National Geographic Traveller (UK) or its editorial staff.

  • North America
  • Travel and Adventure

Best British Columbia Road Trip – Vancouver – Kelowna – Revelstoke

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

We’ve taken our fair share of BC road trips from driving the famous Sea to Sky Highway to exploring the glorious Sunshine Coast . Our latest journey took us east to the interior of British Columbia from Vancouver through Kelowna and Revelstoke and what a beautiful drive it was.

If you live in Canada ( or getting ready to cross the border ) and are looking to explore your own backyard, a road trip to the BC interior is a must. Why? Well, read on to find out.

Table of Contents

Best BC Road Trip

We landed at Vancouver International Airport on a sunny day where we picked up our rental car. When driving through British Columbia, we usually recommend renting an SUV, but with sunny weather, we didn’t have to worry about snow so we drove in a humble sedan.

It may not have been the greatest for back roads, but it was good on gas which is a must with the high cost of fuel in Western Canada. You may also like: Vancouver to Whistler – Best of the Sea to Sky Highway

The BC Road Trip Begins

Planning a trip to British Columbia? Check out this list of the Best Places to Visit in BC

No BC road trip would be complete without spending time in Vancouver. We made our way to Davie Street to stay at the Sandman Suites. With a room on the top floor, we had one of the best views in the entire city. Davie Street is our old haunts from when we lived in Vancouver . Our old apartment was located at Beach and Denman and when standing on our balcony at the Sandman, we were thrilled to see the building still overlooking English Bay. Read more: Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Hotels & Vacation Rentals By Area

With a central location, it was easy to walk around the city exploring all of its top attractions from Stanley Park to False Creek. We took a stroll along the waterfront revisiting all our favourite places in Vancouver for a day before our road trip began. Check out The Sandman Suites Vancouver – Davie Street for rates and availability.

After checking out to move on to the BC interior, we hit the road with a half-day stop at Grouse Mountain. It had been years since we’ve been up the Grouse Mountain Gondola. With limited time, we didn’t tackle the Grouse Grind but instead joined a zipline adventure with Mountain Ziplines. This 5 dual-line circuit takes you over old-growth forests, lakes, and valleys and is an adrenaline-pumping good time! Visit Grouse Mountain Zipline to book your own adventure.

When you are up at Grouse Mountain, make sure to stop to see the resident grizzly bears, Coola and Grinder who were rescued as cubs in 2001. They were found near death and starving on the side of a road (in separate incidents) in the interior BC. After being nursed back to health, Grouse Mountain decided to donate a portion of land to the bears to live out their days in a sanctuary. It is truly an uplifting experience to see them enjoying a swim in the pond. Visit the Grouse Mountain Peak of Vancouver Website for details.

Vancouver to Kelowna

We finished up early afternoon and had a big drive ahead as we made our way to Kelowna, British Columbia. The four-hour drive is a scenic drive through rolling mountains and valleys. The weather turned a bit during our drive, so we bee-lined it to our hotel in Kelowna. Read more: Best Things to do in Kelowna British Columbia

The Sandman Hotel & Suites is located a bit out of downtown but has all the amenities you could want with an indoor swimming pool, gym, and two restaurants connected to the hotel. There is a shopping mall and Moxies within walking distance as well. With free parking, it was a great base for exploring the top attractions in Kelowna. Visit their website for rates and availability.

Kelowna is in the heart of wine country and one of the top things to do is to hop on the wine trail and explore the many vineyards. This is a superb place to stock up on wine for evening nightcaps at the hotels. 

We also spent an afternoon downtown strolling along its picturesque waterfront and enjoyed finding little gems like the Chinese Garden which is a quiet oasis in the centre of downtown.

Myra Canyon Trestles

The top attraction in Kelowna though is the Trestles cycling trail. Located about 40 minutes drive from Kelowna, the 24 km trail takes you along the old Kettle Valley Railway. This is an incredibly scenic trail that can be cycled or hiked. We hiked a portion of it and it was worth the drive. With 18 historic trestle bridges and two massive tunnels blasted through the rock, it is really an amazing sight to see. Worth noting is that the drive up to the trailhead is along a gravel road so take care with that car rental.

Kelowna to Revelstoke

After two nights in Kelowna, it was time to move on to the star attraction of our BC road trip, Revelstoke. A popular winter ski destination, Revelstoke has a ton of things to do in the summertime too! We stayed right at the resort at The Sutton Place which is located slopeside. Overlooking the gondola, we set out for three days of adventure. Read more about The Best Things to do in Revelstoke, BC – Besides Skiing

Revelstoke Mountain Resort

The Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a one-stop destination and you barely need to leave the resort. There is the Rockford Bar and Grill and La Baguette on sight for dining and there are plenty of shops including a liquor store. Plus, with all rooms having full kitchens, you can pack all you need to maximize times on North America’s longest vertical ascent. See their website for rates and availability.

Mountain Biking

Revelstoke has some awesome downhill mountain biking and you can rent mountain bikes and e-bikes on-site. Right now there are only intermediate and black diamond trails for mountain biking, but by next year they will have the green run open for beginners. Downhill mountain biking is a hoot and with very few uphill climbs, we were left to enjoy the feeling of letting gravity do its work. After learning how to ride the berms we settled into one great ride.

Play All Day Pass

One of the best things you can do at Revelstoke Resort is to purchase the play-all-day pass. This includes two rides on the Pipe Mountain Coaster, access to the Aerial Adventure Park, Axe Throwing, Disc Golf and hiking at the top of the gondola. We had a great time running from one adventure to another. Play All Day Passes start at $69. Check their website for more details.

Apres Adventures

The outdoor spa at The Sutton Place and its year-round heated swimming pool was the perfect ending to a day of adventure and we soaked in the tub soothing our tired muscles.

ATV Tour Revelstoke

I know we said that you never have to leave the resort in Revelstoke, but that’s not to say we recommend staying put the entire time! One of the best adventures we’ve ever had in British Columbia was the ATV adventure with Great Canadian tours. Since we were on a road trip, we had the freedom to drive to their office at the foot of Frisby Ridge at Glacier House Resort.

This ATV Tour was hours of pure adrenaline as we drove up technical trails to high mountain views. This tour seriously offers the best views in all of Revelstoke. What makes it more special is that barely anyone else gets to see these vistas. Since the roads are rugged, the only way to get to the top is by ATV and our guide Josh told us that nobody else really gets out here except for those taking their tour.

It’s a tour that is not for the faint of heart as you go up and down steep inclines and cling to mountain ridges, but it is worth every heart-pounding moment and by the time it ends, you’ll be wanting more. See their website for more adventures.

Before leaving Revelstoke, make sure to check out downtown. We enjoyed a delicious noodle bowl at Craft Beirhause and loved perusing its historic buildings. We then made our way to Mt. Begbie Brewing Co . to pick up some beer for the latter half of our road trip nightcaps at the hotel and were ready to move on to the final leg of our British Columbia Road Trip.

Revelstoke to Kamloops

Slowly making our way back to Kamloops, we had more time to stop at roadside attractions from Revelstoke.

Ghost Town 3 Valley Gap

The first being the old Ghost Town at the 3 Valley Gap. Even if you don’t go inside, this is a lovely stop to take in the views. Stroll through the 25 historic buildings dating back to the gold rush of the 1800s and make sure to stop at the lookouts to view the scene of 3 Valley Lake.

The Last Spike

Another must-stop on this drive is the Last Spike historic site. This was the location of the final spike in the CP rail line in 1885. Located at  Craigellachie near Eagle Pass, this was the ceremonial spike signifying the completion of this trans Canada railway that spanned from coast to coast.

The night was spent in Kamloops British Columbia. Checking into The Sandman Signature Suites located across from the beautiful Kamloops waterfront, we were within walking distance to downtown and the waterfront park. Our room overlooked the river and we had a full kitchen and living room to relax after a long road trip.

There is also a lovely indoor pool and outdoor terrace to bask in the sun. The Sandman Signature Kamloops has a Moxies and Shark Club restaurant onsite and they offer a boxed breakfast to take with you on your road trip. Rates, availability and more information here

We had stopped here in Kamloops once before on our Rocky Mountaineer train journey to take in its beautiful scenery. It is a good town to break up a BC road trip to the interior. One place to note is to get off the highway when approaching Kamloops and take the side road to view the nearby hoodoos. Not quite the hoodoos of Alberta , but it is a scenic drive.

Hope Tunnels

We checked out early from Kamloops because we really wanted to hit the Othello Tunnels in Hope, British Columbia. We never really made it to Hope when we lived in Vancouver, but always wanted to see it as First Blood, the first installment of Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo series, was shot here.

The Othello Tunnels reminded me of the Trestles of Kelowna. It is a series of tunnels and trestle bridges cutting through the mountains following a deep gorge. This was a feat of engineering as the 5 tunnels were blasted and built in 1914. It is just a 3.5 km round trip, but completely worth stopping to see.

And that completes our British Columbia road trip. If you want more time in Vancouver, now is the time to make your way back downtown. If you are ready to fly home, stay at the Sandman Signature Suites airport location where you can enjoy a fantastic steak dinner at Chop Steakhouse. This cool eatery has a chic urban vibe and it’s located on-site with an urban outdoor patio. We had our last meal in BC here and the service was excellent. See the location and menu here

So these are four amazing stops on a road trip to the interior of British Columbia. From the coast of Vancouver to the mountains of Revelstoke, there is so much to do in BC that an 8-day road trip barely scratches the surface, but it sure is a great time! Have you gone on a BC road trip? Where to next?

RSVP Rewards

As you know we love rewards programs and wanted to share some RSVP Rewards information with you. Two of Northland Properties’ most well-known brands, Sandman Hotel Group and The Sutton Place Hotels have joined forces to create a new loyalty program called RSVP Rewards. The program is free to join and members instantly unlock exclusive perks at over 60 Sandman and Sutton Place Hotels across Canada, The U.S., England and Scotland.

From complimentary upgrades and free breakfast to racking up points to pay for your whole trip, there are so many reasons to become an RSVP Rewards member. Not to mention that members save an extra 5% off select rates! Join today to get an instant 1,000 points added to your account – that’s the equivalent of $10 towards a future stay!

Northland Properties is a Canadian-owned and operated company with 57 properties across the country including Sandman Hotels and Sutton Place Hotels plus Grouse Mountain, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, and restaurants like Moxies, Denny’s, and Shark Clubs. Nice!

Don’t forget to enter for our chance to win a two-night stay at any Sandman Hotel of your choice. Just head over to our Instagram post , and follow us @theplanetd and @sandmanhotels . Then tag someone you would like to bring with you! If you tag more than one person, you’ll get an extra bonus entry!(up to 3 extra tags for 3 extra chances). With the borders opening up, it’s a great time to visit Canada.

If you enjoyed this journey through British Columbia from Vancouver to Revelstoke, save it to Pinterest to help you plan your future Canada Travels.

Plan your next trip to BC with these Resources

  • 26 Best Things to do in Vancouver, BC
  • 14 Best Hikes in Vancouver to Enjoy the Great Outdoors
  • Sunshine Coast BC – The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary
  • 23 Awesome Things to Do in Whistler, BC
  • Vancouver to Whistler – Best of the Sea to Sky Highway
  • 14 Amazing Things to Do in Squamish BC
  • The 52 Best Things to do in Alberta, Canada – The Ultimate Guide
  • Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

20 Best Things To Do in Windsor, Canada in 2024

Glamping in Ontario: 14 Best Luxury Camping Sites To Visit In 2024

The 15 Best Spas in Ontario: Wellness Retreats To Pamper Yourself

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

4 thoughts on “Best British Columbia Road Trip – Vancouver – Kelowna – Revelstoke”

Thanks For Sharing This Article With Us

Excellent article. I love this piece and thanks to you guys.

The information provided in this article is superb even motivational. I appreciate you sharing such a good post. Thanks

I enjoyed 4 road trips in BC this summer. Wish I’d read your article first. The 4 trips were: Vancouver to Lake Louise; Vancouver to Jasper National Park; Vancouver to Powell Rivet; and Vancouver to Oliver and Osoyoos.

road trip bc

BC’s 5 Best Road Trip Routes

British Columbia is interesting, vast and beautiful. Every corner of the province offers dramatic natural attractions, gorgeous panoramic views, or unique cultural experiences that make it very worthy of a spot on your bucket list.

British Columbia may not be welcoming travelers at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that doesn’t mean it’s too early to begin planning your future road trip! There are many different British Columbia road trip options that will take you to a variety of different stunning spots and memorable experiences, making the actual planning part (and daydreaming about it!) a blast.

Cars driving down a mountainous road

The Sea-to-Sky Highway

This stretch of twisting road between Vancouver and Whistler really earns its name – the Sea-to-Sky Highway! Experience fantastic blue waters on one side and soaring cliffs on the other. The highway passes by waterfalls, rivers, canyons, and mountains, as well as several small towns. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the tourist attraction signs, as you’ll surely want to stop at them along the way.

Suspension bridge overlooking mountains and a lake

Road Trip Highlights

  • In Vancouver, take the time to explore Stanley Park, see amazing marine life at the Vancouver Aquarium, and wander the historic Gastown
  • In North Vancouver, walk 450ft above ground across the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge
  • Head to West Vancouver for picturesque views of Howe Sound
  • Stop at Horseshoe Bay for fish and chips, and to relax and watch the ferries sailing in and out of port
  • Porteau Cove Provincial Park is a popular scuba diving destination. It has artificial shipwrecks and reefs that support hundreds of species of marine life, such as octopus, lingcod, and starfish.
  • Visit the Britannia Mine Museum National Historic Site. Board a mining train and travel deep into an old mining tunnel. Pan for gold, engage in interactive exhibits and see historic mining equipment.
  • You can’t miss the infamous Sea to Sky Gondola! Catch a ride to the top and enjoy beautiful, panoramic views of Howe Sound.
  • Visit Squamish, the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada”. Here you can mountain bike, windsurf, hike and more!
  • Take the time to drink some of Squamish’s locally brewed beer and delicious food
  • Travel to Brackendale and go on an Eagle Safari where you can sail down the Squamish River while keeping your eyes peeled for bald eagles
  • Once you arrive in Whistler, depending on the time of year you decide to visit you can cross-country ski, hike, mountain bike, downhill ski and snowboard
  • In Whistler you can take the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola and experience activities on both of Whistler’s mountains.
  • Explore Whistlers pedestrian-only village
  • Learn about the local First Nations at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Road Trip Route

Starting in Vancouver, you can head along Highway 99 north towards Whistler. Highway 99 is also called the Fraser Delta Thruway south of Vancouver, the Sea to Sky Highway, the Squamish Highway, and Whistler Highway.

Road Trip Length

Depends on how long you want to spend on this road trip! For a multi-day journey, Squamish is a great place to book overnight accommodation. Without stopping, you can get to Whistler in just over an hour and a half, but you will want to take in all this highway has to offer –  which means you will probably be stopping a lot!

Things to Note

Optional: For a different route back to Vancouver, follow Highway 99 north to Pemberton, which has breathtaking paragliding opportunities. Continue north to Lillooet; the stretch of Highway 99 between Pemberton and Lillooet is also known as Duffey Lake Road and features dazzling roadside scenery. Highlights include hiking at Nairn Falls Provincial Park. Optional: From Lillooet you can head south down the Fraser Canyon via Highway 12 and then Highway 1 back to Vancouver.

It’s important to note that the Sea-to-Sky highway is extremely popular among locals and visitors, and it is very busy in the summer! Spring and fall are the best times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.

Vancouver Island

This Vancouver Island road trip can be done anywhere from one to five days. This route is a great choice for foodies, beach bums, nature explorers, and wine connoisseurs. The best way to experience the West Coast’s west coast is at your own pace, so take the time to wander and take in the sights, sounds and scents of this amazing road trip. It features many of the delights that BC has to offer, all within just a few hours of driving.

People camping on a beach

  • Stroll around the Inner Harbour, the beautiful centre of downtown Victoria and see two of Victoria’s most beautiful buildings, the Legislative Building, and the Empress Hotel.
  • Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-see! Stroll along docks and enjoy the colourful and vibrant floating homes. Shop in the quirky shops owned by locals and eat at the small floating restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to ice cream.
  • Visit the world-renowned Butchart Gardens. With over 900 plant varieties, it is certainly a flower-lover’s paradise.
  • Go whale watching in Cowichan Bay
  • See over 40 totem poles in Duncan and shop for fresh produce at the Duncan Farmers Market
  • Explore scenic beaches and parks, hike the Juan de Fuca Trail, go kayaking or stand-up-paddle boarding
  • Explore Sooke Potholes Provincial Park
  • Take a tour of Sheringham Distillery and discover their award-winning Seaside Gin
  • Go ziplining above the trees of Sooke
  • Learn about B.C.’s history at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse, a National Historic Site
  • Tour the grounds of famed Hatley Castle, best known for its appearances in Hollywood films like Deadpool and X-Men.

This road trip is sometimes called the Pacific Marine Circle Route and is the perfect trip to see everything Southern Vancouver Island has to offer. Starting in Victoria, on Vancouver Island’s southern tip, this route is a loop, so you will also end your adventure in Victoria.

From Victoria you will drive up to Cowichan Bay, head to Duncan, then continue along the Pacific Marine Circle Route to Lake Cowichan, Port Renfrew and Sooke. After that you’ll end up back in Victoria! Another charming town you might want to add to your itinerary, if you have time, is Sidney.

This road trip route is about 255 kilometers and can be spread out anywhere from 1 to 3 days, depending on how long you want to spend exploring each area.

To get to Victoria from Vancouver, you must take a ferry. BC Ferries offers 90-minute sailings to Victoria’s Swartz Bay terminal from the Tsawwassen terminal (approximately 45 minutes south of downtown Vancouver). Ferries run often and take both vehicles and walk-on passengers.

Mountains & Vineyards

A glass of wine sitting on a surface overlooking a vineyard and lake

  • Enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River
  • Watch for birds in the world-renowned Columbia Wetlands
  • Ride the gondola to the top of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for panoramic mountain views and enjoy a memorable meal at Canada’s highest restaurant, the Eagle’s Eye
  • Be amazed by Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s highest waterfalls
  • See the beautiful jewel-coloured Emerald Lake, visit the Natural Bridge, and/or view the Spiral Tunnels
  • Play golf on top-rated 18-hole championship courses with beautiful mountain landscapes.
  • Stop for a relaxing soak at either Radium or Fairmont Hot Springs
  • In Kimberley, see the world’s largest, free-standing cuckoo clock and explore the Platzl, a pedestrian area filled with unique shops and restaurants.
  • In Cranbrook, explore the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel
  • The Columbia Gardens Vineyard & Winery offers guided tours and tastings.
  • In Oliver, Canada’s Wine Capital, a tour of local wineries is a must, because there are more than 20 in the area!
  • In Summerland, be sure to play a round of golf at one of the area’s numerous championship golf courses
  • In Kelowna, visit the BC Orchard Industry Museum and BC Wine Museum (and the beaches too, of course)
  • Cruise into the picturesque Shuswap Lake area. You’ll find many opportunities to swim, camp, fish, boat, hike, or bike
  • Stop in the quaint city of Revelstoke and tour the Revelstoke Railway Museum
  • Go through five long tunnels and experience amazing mountain scenery while driving along Rogers Pass

This road trip travels in a big circle! Starting and ending in Golden, head east on Highway 1 and you’ll find Yoho National Park, then continue to Radium and Fairmont Hot Springs. Continue onwards south to Kimberley and once you reach Salmo, drive north on Highway 6 to historic Nelson. Continue from Nelson to the Okanagan, and then return to Golden via Revelstoke. This all depends on when and where you are planning to stop. And don’t hesitate to take some detours to make the most of this adventure!

For this road trip it is best to take your time and see the sights and drink all the wine you can! You will be driving about 1260 kilometers and this could take anywhere from 7 to 10 days making it a great length for a memorable getaway!

Hot Springs

Hot spring pools in the mountains

  • Visit Kimberley Nature Park, the biggest municipal park in BC offers hiking for every skill level
  • Take a dip into Fairmont’s year-round, crystal clear hot springs pools
  • Experience the Fairmont Resort and take advantage of 45 scenic holes of golf, access to hiking and biking trails, spa services, and skiing in the winter
  • Enjoy your second hot springs in Radium, one of the largest hot spring mineral pools in Canada
  • Stop in Invermere on the Lake and enjoy a swim or a paddle
  • Visit Yoho National Park, and see powerful waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife and ancient fossil beds
  • Visit Canyon Hot Springs, home to two natural mineral hot pools to ease muscles sore from travelling
  • Drive to alpine meadows in Mount Revelstoke National Park and head to Revelstoke Mountain Resort to ride the thrilling Pipe Mountain Coaster!
  • Wander the Enchanted Forest and visit the ghost town of 3 Valley Gap
  • Stop at the Halcyon Hot Springs which features four mineral-rich pools and overlooks Upper Arrow Lake and the Monashee Mountains.
  • In the village of Nakusp, walk the lakeside Waterfront Walkway and then relax in the soothing hot springs, in the Kuskanax Valley in the foothills of the Selkirk Mountains
  • New Denver and Silverton sit on the shore of Slocan Lake, where you can explore museums, artisan studios, and plenty of outdoor activity options such as hiking or mountain biking
  • Explore the quaint village of Kaslo and visit its sites, like the S.S. Moyie, the Langham Cultural Centre, and Fletcher Falls
  • Enjoy Kokanee Creek Provincial Park’s sandy beaches, tall trees, great camping, and sapphire lakes
  • Visit yet another hot spring! Ainsworth Hot Springs has a large lounging pool and other unique features
  • Take a guided caving tour of the Cody Caves
  • Sail on the free Kootenay Lake ferry, the longest free ferry ride in the world, and drive to Crawford Bay. This charming arts community with plenty of unique, local shops
  • Creston is home to four wineries, so sampling must be on your agenda

Begin your tour in Cranbrook then drive north along Highway 95A to Kimberley. Continue north on Highway 93/95 to Fairmont Hot Springs. Once you’re done in Fairmont continue onto Golden then take Highway 1 to Rogers Pass then continue east to Revelstoke. Drive south on Highway 23 to Halcyon and Nakusp hot springs and then continue to New Denver. Follow Highway 31A to Kaslo.

Continue south along Highway 31 to Ainsworth Hot Springs and the Kootenay Lake Ferry. Travel south on Highway 3A to Creston and then finally from Creston, it’s about a 75-minute drive back to your starting point of Cranbrook. Take your time to take it all in!

This road trip is best taken in seven days, as you’ll drive about 851 kilometers! You’ll definitely want to take your time and stop a lot along the way.

Northern Lights

This is the longest British Columbia road trip, but it is also a big bucket list item for many people!

This route is home to plenty of wildlife, and you might be lucky enough to see sheep, moose, grizzly and black bears. This adventure also features natural hot springs pools, ancient totem poles, great fishing, glaciers, the Northern Lights, First Nations culture, and Fur Trade history.

Colorful northern lights and a sky full of stars

  • Experience the Ancient Forest/Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park, the only inland temperate rainforest in the world
  • Have a drink at the Northern Lights Estate Winery, BC’s northernmost winery, which offers tours and tastings with views of the river
  • If you want to fish, Moberly Lake is home to northern pike, lake trout, and ling cod. Azouzetta, Gwillim, Jackfish, and Moose lakes are also popular fishing spots
  • Stop at breathtaking Bijoux Falls before heading to Chetwynd
  • Travel to Hudson’s Hope, known as the Land of the Dinosaurs, and see the dinosaur fossil and footprint collection at the Hudson’s Hope Museum
  • Hike to see fossilized dinosaur footprints at the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark, or spend the day hiking some of Hudson’s Hope spectacular trails
  • Visit “Mile 0″ of the historic Alaska Highway in Dawson Creek
  • Dawson Creek is a great place to spend a night with your eyes to the sky looking for Northern Lights
  • Stop at the famous signpost forest in Watson Lake, Yukon. Almost 68,000 license plates, road shields and homemade signs are displayed here
  • Make sure to stop at the beautiful Cascade Falls
  • Visit the rustic town of Stewart on the BC/Alaska border. Along the way, you’ll pass Bear Glacier, one of the few roadside blue glaciers in the world.
  • Visit Toastworks, a museum dedicated to toasters! It’s also a great place to get breakfast
  • Relive history on an interpretive walking trail at Battle Hill National Historic Site
  • Visit the world-renowned ‘Ksan Historical Village. Learn about Gitxsan history and culture, and see traditional totem carvers at work
  • Near Smithers, stop to see the raging rapids of Moricetown Canyon and the thundering Twin Falls
  • Explore the Fort St. James National Historic Site and see a re-created Hudson’s Bay trading post
  • Get out of the cities late at night to hopefully see more of the northern lights!

This route starts and finishes in Prince George. From Prince George drive north on Highway 97 to scenic Pine Pass and head to Chetwynd. Continue north on Highway 97 to Fort St. John and from the town of Dease Lake, head south down Highway 37. From Stewart, travel south to the Stewart-Cassiar Highway and Highway 16. Continue south to Smithers to finish the circle route, return to Prince George via Highway 16 east.

This journey is worth taking your time and can be easily stretched out over at least ten days! You’ll drive about 3,190 kilometres.

Someone hiking on the edge of a mountain

Have you seen our Alberta Road Trip Routes blog post? Be sure to check that one out, too!

Start planning your road trip getaway today.

TierOne Travel Agency logo

Ready to contact a travel consultant? Please fill out the form below and a Tier One Travel consultant will be in touch!

Name: Phone:

Email: Message:

You may also like.......

road trip bc

The Best Luxury RV Resorts in Florida | 2024 Guide

road trip bc

Alberta's 5 BEST Road Trip Routes

road trip bc

Best Tips & Tricks for Planning a Perfect Road Trip

Promos related to this blog.

road trip bc

Enjoy Special Savings with Lindblad Expeditions

road trip bc

Solo Travel with HX

road trip bc

Experience the Galápagos Islands with HX

road trip bc

Live the Legend of Norway

road trip bc

Save up to $4,000 per Cabin + Reduced Deposit with HX

road trip bc

Give the Gift of Travel with Hurtigruten

Read our latest magazines.

road trip bc

Need a Vacation?

Receive travel inspiration from us and begin planning today, connect with us.

Join us on social media for the latest travel tips and advice.

Latest Posts

blue ridge mountains georgia

Best Things To Do in Blue Ridge Mountains Georgia

luxury family all inclusive resorts

Luxury Family All-Inclusive Resorts with WestJet Vacations

orlando boat trips

Best Orlando Boat Trips | 2024 Florida Travel Guide

luxury rv resorts in florida

When Is Cape Cod Whale Watching Season? 2024 Guide

road trip bc

Best Cherry Blossom Japan Festivals 2024 Guide

Popular tags, subscribe now.

road trip bc

Georgia Stephens | 13 March 2019

8 of british columbia’s most spectacular road trips.

With its glorious landscapes, pretty backcountry communities and wildlife around every corner, British Columbia is prime territory for a road trip...

road trip bc

With its glorious landscapes, pretty backcountry communities and wildlife around every corner, British Columbia is prime territory for a road trip. Make a beeline for the surf beaches, meander up into the mountains or experience the northern lights from behind the wheel with the province’s most spectacular drives.

1: Sea to Sky Highway

Stanley Park seawall with Downtown Vancouver (Destination British Columbia, Jordan Manley)

Stanley Park seawall with Downtown Vancouver (Destination British Columbia, Jordan Manley)

Without doubt one of British Columbia’s top scenic drives, the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) whisks you along the coast from Vancouver all the way up to the craggy peaks of Whistler. This stretch of road is true to its name, conquering the mountains in gentle curves with towering cliffs on one side, the ocean on the other and nothing ahead but sky. Along the way, you can pull up in Squamish to rock climb, windsurf or mountain bike along woodland trails. Make sure you don’t miss the Sea to Sky Gondola, which swoops you across Howe Sound to a trio of lofty viewing platforms.

Start and finish: Vancouver and Pemberton Distance: 163km Duration: 1 to 3 days

2: Route 97

Route 97 winding around Okanagan Lake (Shutterstock)

Route 97 winding around Okanagan Lake (Shutterstock)

For a road trip of epic proportions, look no further than Route 97, North America’s longest continuous north-south highway. In Canada, it’ll carry you from the US border near Osoyoos up to Watson Lake on the boundary with the Yukon, passing through the Okanagan wine country and sprawling Kamloops. From here, the untamed wilderness of the north unfurls ahead of you as you head towards Watson Lake. It is without question one of the province’s greatest drives. Highlights of the route include plentiful roadside wildlife (like bison, elk, moose and bears), a refreshing dip in Lake Okanagan or paddleboarding on Lake Kalamalka, as well as the many roadside fruit stands piled high with seasonal fruit, including cherries, peaches and apples.

Start and finish: Osoyoos and Watson Lake, though it can be cut shorter to finish at Kamloops Distance: 1,343km Duration: 3 to 7 days

3: Vancouver to Tofino

Beautiful ancient trees in Macmillan Provincial Park (Shutterstock)

Beautiful ancient trees in Macmillan Provincial Park (Shutterstock)

The route from Vancouver to Tofino, on Vancouver Island, will lead you from the big city to one of Canada’s best-known surfing towns. Unusually, this is a road trip that starts with a ferry crossing, as you’ll first have to sail across the strait to Nanaimo. Tofino lies to the west, but you should resist the call of the waves for as long as you can to make a few essential stops en route. The market in the community of Coombs is renowned for the small herd of goats nibbling the grass on its roof, while Macmillan Provincial Park is home to Cathedral Grove, an easily accessible pocket of truly enormous Douglas fir trees, some over 800 years old.

Start and finish: Vancouver and Tofino Distance: 303km Duration: 1 to 3 days

4: Powder Highway

A view of Rossland in the Kootenay Rockies (Destination British Columbia, Kari Medig)

A view of Rossland in the Kootenay Rockies (Destination British Columbia, Kari Medig)

If ski resorts and hot springs are your kind of thing, then the existence of British Columbia’s Powder Highway in the province’s south-eastern corner is going to come as welcome news. This legendary circuit carves out a route between the eight major ski resorts in the Kootenay Rockies, and offers a mix of options for all abilities: Panorama and Whitewater are family-friendly, for instance, while Revelstoke and Kicking Horse can thrill even the experts. At the half-way point, you can schedule a stop at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort to soothe your muscles in its pleasantly warm pools.

Start and finish: Fernie Alpine Resort and Red Mountain Resort Distance: 1,300km Duration: 10 days

5: Yellowhead Highway 

Motorcyclists riding through Nisg&#39;a Highway on Route 16 (Destination British Columbia, Jong Sun Park)

Motorcyclists riding through Nisg'a Highway on Route 16 (Destination British Columbia, Jong Sun Park)

Like the Trans-Canada Highway, the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) runs east to west across British Columbia, connecting the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains with Prince Rupert, the coastal gateway to the First Nations communities on Haida Gwaii and the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. The quiet route plunges deep into the wilds of northern BC, and is a favourite with motorcyclists and those eager to stray from the beaten path. When you reach Terrace, don’t miss the detour to Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Provincial Park, where you can visit First Nations villages and explore otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

Start and finish: Mount Robson Provincial Park and Prince Rupert Distance: 1,005km Duration: 3 to 5 days

6: Hope to Cache Creek

Hell&#39;s Gate is the deepest, narrowest part of Fraser River (Shutterstock)

Hell's Gate is the deepest, narrowest part of Fraser River (Shutterstock)

The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) is a whopper of a road, spanning 7821km east to west across all ten Canadian provinces. You’ll find around 1,039km of it in British Columbia, and one of the most interesting sections to tackle is the drive along the Fraser River between Hope and Cache Creek. This area played an integral part of the Gold Rush Trail in the mid-nineteenth century, when giddy prospectors made an abrupt beeline for Barkerville. You can follow the echoes of their boots north via Hell’s Gate, the deepest and narrowest part of the river, where you’ll also find a gondola tentatively crossing over the tempestuous waves.

Start and finish: Hope and Cache Creek Distance: 193km Duration: 1 day

7: Scenic Highway

The beautiful town of Harrison Hot Springs is well worth a pit stop (Shutterstock)

The beautiful town of Harrison Hot Springs is well worth a pit stop (Shutterstock)

If you’re in Vancouver and eager to get out into the country for the day, the laidback Scenic Highway (Highway 7) is a good bet. Leave the city in your rear view mirror and adjust to life in the slow lane, tracing the river between rolling hills east to the small town of Hope. Along the way, you can stop off in the small community of Harrison Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the mineral pools. Once you arrive in Hope, work up an appetite for dinner with a hike along the Othello-Quintette Tunnels, which were originally built as part of the Kettle Valley Railway and pass over the roaring Coquihalla River.

Start and finish: Vancouver and Hope Distance: 128km Duration: 1 day

8: Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle route starts and finishes in the capital city, Victoria (Reuben Krabbe)

The Pacific Marine Circle route starts and finishes in the capital city, Victoria (Reuben Krabbe)

This quiet circular route kicks off in Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city, before heading off on a coast-to-coast adventure between some of southern Vancouver Island’s highlights. You can start by heading west to the scenic town of Sooke, where it’s just a short drive to the gnarly rock formations of Sooke Potholes Provincial Park. Keep going and you can enjoy a dip in Cowichan Lake, before taking a tour of downtown Duncan’s 41 vibrant totem poles and zooming back to Victoria. Alternatively, catch a ferry at Mill Bay across to Butchart Gardens near the capital – it’s been dubbed Vancouver Island’s most beautiful shortcut.

Start and finish: Victoria Distance: 289km Duration: 1 to 3 days

road trip bc

For more information on travelling to British Columbia, please visit hellobc.co.uk  or search #exploreBC

'SUPER, NATURAL BRITISH COLUMBIA' and 'SUPER, NATURAL' and all associated logos/trade-marks are trade-marks of Destination BC Corp.

Discover more of British Columbia

Related Articles

Looking for inspiration.

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust  by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

road trip bc

Traveling BC

Discover the beauty of BC

A man looking out at Garibaldi Lake from Panorama Ridge in BC

Disclaimer – This post may contain ads and affiliate links that help keep Travelling BC running. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support! Learn more.

Best Winter Road Trips in British Columbia

Winter is one of the best times of year to go for a road trip in BC. From stunning snow capped mountains and world-class ski resorts to icy waterfalls and natural hot springs, there are so many places to see and things to do across this beautiful province.

Don’t know where to go? We cover some of the best winter road trips in British Columbia. From the epic mountains of the Sea to Sky Highway to the coastal cities of Vancouver Island, these journeys take you through some of the most beautiful winter scenery in Canada. So get out there and explore all that this beautiful province has to offer this winter!

Where to Go on a Winter Road Trip in BC

Mission Creek Regional Park in Kelowna, BC - Photo: Kyle Sanguin

1. Sea to Sky Highway

Panorama Ridge in the Garibaldi Highlands - Photo: Lukas Mann

The Sea to Sky Highway (the central portion of Highway 99) is one of the best road trips in BC in winter — or any time of year! This incredible highway takes you from the coastal city of Vancouver, along the spectacular Howe Sound, and to the mountain towns of Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton.

Whether you want to go skiing at Whistler-Blackcomb, snowshoeing through Garibaldi Provincial Park, or ride the Sea to Sky Gondola , there’s plenty of fun winter things to do and see along the Sea to Sky Corridor. Enjoy the mild weather of Vancouver before traveling into the mountains on one of the most beautiful drives in all of Canada.

Look for the impressive Stawamus Chief and Shannon Falls as you drive into Squamish — you can’t miss them! Snowshoe to the frozen Brandywine Falls, walk through the immersive Vallea Lumina experience, or speed down the slopes of the Whistler-Blackcomb Ski Resort. There’s no shortage of fun on a winter Sea to Sky Highway road trip!

Don’t have a vehicle? Take this bus transfer service between Vancouver and Squamish or Whistler. Alternatively, head out for the day on a Vancouver to Whistler coach tour , with stops at the Sea to Sky Gondola, Shannon Falls, and Whistler Village.

Best Stops: Shannon Falls Provincial Park, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, Garibaldi Provincial Park, Sea to Sky Gondola, Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort More Info: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide

2. Vancouver Island

road trip bc

From beautiful sandy beaches to spectacular snowy mountains, Vancouver Island has everything you could ever want in a winter BC road trip. Best of all, with mild weather, it never gets too cold on the island!

A good starting point for any Vancouver Island road trip is the coastal city of Victoria. Here, you can see spectacular winter light displays at the famous Butchart Gardens , sightsee around the Inner Harbour, or adventure to a nearby park, like the Sooke Potholes, Thetis Lake, or Juan de Fuca Provincial Park.

The winter fun doesn’t stop at Victoria, though! Head north up Vancouver Island to discover the snowy backcountry of Strathcona Provincial Park, home to excellent snowshoeing trails, and Mount Washington, Vancouver Island’s best ski resort.

For a unique winter activity, head to Tofino and Ucluelet for some storm watching. Watch huge waves crash against the coast, right from your oceanfront hotel room . On calm days, explore the never-ending shores of Long Beach, hike to the Cox Bay Lookout, or have a fire on Chesterman Beach! And on your drive to the Pacific Rim region, make sure to stop to admire the huge old growth trees at Cathedral Grove.

Best Stops: Victoria, Butchart Gardens, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park (Botanical & Mystic Beaches), Strathcona Provincial Park, Tofino, Ucluelet, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Cathedral Grove, Mount Washington Alpine Resort, Southern Gulf Islands

3. Okanagan Valley

A view from above the clouds at the Big White Ski Resort near Kelowna

For wine lovers and outdoor adventurers, a winter road trip through the Okanagan Valley in southern BC is a must.

While the cities within this region — like Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, and Osoyoos — are known for sunny lakeside summers, they’re also some of BC’s top winter destinations. When the Okanagan Valley gets snow, these areas turn into a winter wonderland that’s just waiting to be explored!

Home to ski resorts like Big White, Apex, and Silverstar Mountain, the Okanagan Country is one of the best places to head in BC if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding. These mountains are also home to a variety of other winter sports, like Nordic skiing, dog sledding, tubing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

There are plenty of winter activities and attractions that are off these mountain resorts, too. Go skating at the charming Stuart Park in downtown Kelowna, snowshoe the Myra Canyon Trestles, or hike up Knox Mountain to get incredible views of the Okanagan Lake. Warm up after your adventures by sipping a hot drink at one of the many cafes or restaurants around town.

And don’t worry, many wineries are still open in winter! Join a winter wine tasting tour to visit some of the best wineries in the region — like the Mission Hill, Quails Gate or Summerhill Pyramid Wineries — without worrying about choosing a designated driver!

Best Stops: Big White Ski Resort, Silverstar Mountain Ski Resort, Okanagan Lake, Myra Canyon Trestles, Knox Mountain Park, Wineries

4. Kootenays

A skier jumping down the snowy slopes at Revelstoke Mountain Resort in the Kootenays

With an abundance of snow, endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, and rejuvenating mineral hot springs, the Kootenays of southeastern BC are sure to provide an unforgettable winter road trip experience.

For those looking to escape into the mountains, this is the right spot for you! The Kootenays are packed with mountain towns full of character (like Fernie and Revelstoke), beautiful national parks (Revelstoke, Glacier, Yoho, and Kootenay), and tons of backcountry wilderness.

Encompassing four mountain ranges, it’s no surprise that some of the best ski resorts (as well as heli-skiing) in BC are found in the Kootenays. No matter whether you hit the slopes at Revelstoke, Kicking Horse, Fernie, or one of the other mountain resorts, you’ll find some incredible alpine terrain with powder snow and fun ski runs.

Want to feel rejuvenated on your vacation? The Kootenays are also home to several hot springs, such as Radium, Fairmont, and Ainsworth Hot Springs. These hot pools are a great way to relax and soothe your muscles after a long day of outdoor fun. Visit all of them on the Hot Springs Circle Route!

Within the Kootenays, you’ll also find Indermere’s Lake Windermere Whiteway, a 34-km groomed ice skating and Nordic skiing track around the outskirts of the lake. It’s one of the longest skating trails in the world!

Best Stops: Mount Revelstoke National Park, Yoho National Park, Kootenay National Park, Glacier National Park, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Radium Hot Springs, Fairmont Hot Springs

Best Tips for Winter Road Trips in BC

A grey jay sitting in a tree

While winter is an incredibly rewarding time of year to explore BC, winter road trips through the province can also be challenging. Icy roads, heavy snowfall, road closures, avalanche warnings, and other bad winter conditions make driving through parts of BC quite difficult at times.

Before heading out on your road trip, make sure to check the conditions along your planned route using DriveBC . This website provides up-to-date information on road conditions (e.g. avalanche warnings, slippery sections, snow warnings), closures, construction, planned events (e.g. future road work), and traffic incidents. It’s an incredibly handy resource for road trips in BC!

Also, check the weather forecast before traveling. Snowstorms make driving through BC very difficult (and scary). Trust us, don’t drive in a BC snowstorm! While this is especially true in the mountains, driving in the coastal cities (like Victoria and Vancouver) during a snowstorm is also quite dangerous as many drivers lack proper snow tires.

Generally, snow tires are required to drive the highways in BC during the winter. For the most part, winter tires must be used from October 1 – April 30, but some highways only require them from October 1 – March 31. You can check here for maps showing the seasons for designated routes. Winter tires should have the mountain snowflake symbol, but M+S tires are also legal.

Top Travel Tips for British Columbia

  • Travel Insurance – If you’re travelling internationally, travel insurance is a must for any trip. Being covered by insurance is especially important when you’re going to an adventure-filled place like British Columbia. If you injure yourself while adventuring, you want to have insurance! We recommend using SafetyWing for international travel insurance. They are affordable and have great policies for travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Also, SafetyWing provides COVID-19 coverage, which many other insurance companies don’t cover.
  • Car Rental – We find the best deal on vehicle rental prices using RentalCars.com . They compare the prices for different car rental companies so you can find the best deals out there!
  • Accommodations – We prefer booking all of our hotels, hostels, and other accommodations through Booking.com because they have a flexible cancellation policy. Also, there are lots of different options on their platform, from hotels to vacation homes. Alternatively, Expedia and Hotels.com are good for booking accommodations. For vacation home rentals, VRBO is an excellent choice (they have lower fees than Airbnb, many of the same properties, and are more ethical).
  • Flights – You’ll find many good flight deals on Skyscanner or Google Flights. You can book flights through these websites and they’ll help you find the best prices and flight times. If you fly at less popular times (e.g. mid-week or red-eye flights), you can also save some money.
  • Tours – Get the most out of your vacation by taking a guided tour! This is a great way to see the city, adventure to exciting new locations, and learn about the local culture. Viator or GetYourGuide are great options for booking tours.

Related posts:

  • Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip: Vancouver to Whistler & Beyond
  • 15 Top Whistler Summer Activities for Adrenaline Junkies
  • 20 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
  • 21 Fun Things to Do in Kelowna in Winter
  • 11 Top Whistler Vacation Rentals with Private Hot Tubs
  • 10 Best Whistler Chalets for Group Getaways

road trip bc

Hey, I'm Nicole! I've travelled all over the world but my favorite place is British Columbia. I've lived in Victoria, BC since 2019 and spend most of my free time travelling around BC. My goal is to explore as much of this beautiful province as possible. Along the way I'll be sharing travel tips with you!

8 Most Unique and Unusual Hotels in Victoria, BC (2023)

Where to stay near the tsawwassen ferry terminal.

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region of BC offers nearly endless roads for exploration, where you’re guaranteed to strike wonder, and will certainly want to keep returning for more. Tour now of the most diverse, idyllic, exciting regions in the province, where you can take to historic trails, embark on outdoor adventures, and dip your toes (or a line) in lakes, rivers, streams and even ocean waters.

Retrace the famed routes of British Columbias First Nations’ peoples, traders and prospectors during the gold rush of the 1860s; fish over 100 lakes in less than 100 km span; and tour cowboy country, panoramic peaks and backcountry vistas in the same day. Complete your road trip, if desired, at the Pacific ocean – watching whales and wolves swimming in the inlets while the rare Kermode (Spirit ) Bear fish for salmon nearby. 

Explore in your own vehicle, or find other ways of getting to the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast . Regardless of the route you take, a road trip in BC’s Cariboo Chilcotin Coast offers sights, sounds, and refreshment of spirit you are searching for.

BC Road Trips

Bc's roads less travelled, cariboo gold rush trail, chilcotin highway, bc's fishing highway, fall colours: canim lake & the interlakes, the great bear rainforest loop.

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

The Ultimate Kootenays BC Road Trip

June 21, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Sharing is caring!

Canoeing in Fernie BC

Imagine driving through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, passing numerous small mountain towns along the way, while enjoying delicious food, golfing, rafting, museums, mining tours, spas, and hot springs. This is what a Kootenays BC Road Trip is all about!

Starting in Fernie and moving up Highway 93 to Radium Hot Springs and Kootenay National Park, this is truly one of the top road trips in Canada . The landscapes are unreal, the towns are stunning, and there are activities and attractions for everyone, including golfing, adventure travel, or just kicking back while enjoying a massage.

While the optimum time to see the Kootenays is at least one week (two is better), you can also pick and choose where you want to go based on what you want to do or see. The driving time between all the towns is actually quite short, which makes it easy to navigate.

Having just experienced a 10-day Kootenay BC road trip, we’re going to list out what we did to help you plan your own. In addition, we have travel guides on some of the many destinations in the Kootenays to further enhance your trip.

St. Eugene Resort and Casino Cranbrook British Columbia

Table of Contents

The Kootenays

First off, let’s go over what the Kootenays are.

The Kootenays is a region of southeastern British Columbia . It takes its name from the Kootenay River, which in turn was named for the Kutenai First Nations people. It’s a fairly large area that comprises many mountain towns, most of which offer incredible skiing and outdoor adventure, stunning mountain landscapes, clear lakes, waterfalls, biking, hot springs, and vibrant arts and culture scenes.

Destinations in the Kootenays include Ainsworth Hot Springs, Castlegar, Cranbrook, Creston, Fairmont Hot Springs, Fernie, Golden, Invermere, Kaslo, Kimberley, Nakusp, Nelson, Radium Hot Springs, Revelstoke, Rossland, Slocan Valley, and Trail. You can learn much more about these towns and the travel opportunities at MyKootenays.ca .

For our road trip, however, we’re going to focus on the towns on the Eastern side of the Kootenays, including Fernie, Cranbrook, Kimberley, Fairmont Hot Springs, Invermere, and Radium Hot Springs. If you decide to do the western side and the north, you should definitely allow two weeks as a minimum.

Downtown Fernie British Columbia Kootenays

Located only 30-minutes west of Alberta’s Crowsnest Pass , Fernie is a great place to begin your Kootenay BC road trip. Fernie is a stunning mountain town surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. In fact, it’s the only town in BC completely surrounded by the Rockies. It’s home to world-class skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and rafting. It also has one of the nicest mountain towns with lots of delicious restaurants and a vibrant art scene. You can learn more about Fernie in our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Fernie . However, some highlights are below.

Hiking Fairy Creek Falls Fernie BC

Considering its location, it should come as no surprise that Fernie is home to some great hiking options. We’ve done a couple of hikes in the area and can’t wait to do more down the line. One easy trail to get started with is Fairy Creek Falls, which starts just behind the Fernie Visitor Centre , which is also a great resource for planning your trip. This trail is relatively flat all the way to the beautiful waterfall, which is extra powerful in the spring. You’ll walk next to the creek for more of the short 1-hour journey, likely spotting beaver dams and chewed trees along the way.

For more difficult hikes with marvellous views, hike up to Mt. Fernie. This hike goes up the mountain, taking roughly 5 hours for a return trip. It is well marked and simple but is an incline the entire way, so make sure you’re up for the challenge. The reward is outstanding views of both the town and the mountains surrounding it.

Rafting in Fernie is one of the top things to do on a Kootenays BC road trip.

Whether you’re looking for a calm, scenic float down the Elk River or looking to get more adventurous and go white water rafting, Fernie has something for everyone. During our spring visit, we joined Canyon Raft Company for a scenic float through town. Our guide shared lots of information with us as we gently coasted through town, marvelling at all the mountains around us. We saw an eagle, an elk, and lots of evidence of beaver activity.

Explore Historic Downtown Fernie

Fernie’s downtown core is quite beautiful with many historic buildings surrounded by stunning views. There are a few different ways to actually learn about the buildings and the history, including a visit to the Fernie Museum and a self-guided historical walking tour. You can find a map of the walk inside the Elk Valley Cultural guide.

Cranbrook Mini Golf at Elizabeth Lake Lodge.

Located roughly one hour west of Fernie, Cranbrook is another great base for exploring the Kootenays. From multiple award-winning golf courses to hiking and biking, there’s something for everyone. Cranbrook also has a lot of history. Built for the railway, the city grew around the tracks, leading to beautiful commercial buildings and elegant homes.

Some things to enjoy while you’re here include:

Taking a tour of the old trains at the Cranbrook History Centre is one of the Things to Do in Cranbrook

Cranbrook History Centre

While the Cranbrook History Centre is a great place to learn about the history of the town, it’s much more dedicated to the history of trains in the region as well as train history in general. In fact, if you have any interest in trains, this is one place you do not want to miss. Home to a collection of 20 railway cards (17 of which are available to the public), this is a rare chance to see and walk through some amazing rail cars, such as the 1929 “Trans-Canada Limited” (a classic “Jazz Era Art Deco” design), 2 cars of the 1907 “Soo-Spokane Train” (a deluxe example of “Edwardian Art Nouveau Elegance”), and the 1927 executive night car “Strathcona” which has housed many VIP guests during its time in service, including Queen Elizabeth II, John & Jackie Kennedy and Sir Winston Churchill. As of 2022, it has also housed Must Do Canada (haha). To see all of them, you’ll want to sign up for the grand tour. Also notable is the Royal Alexandra Hall, one of the original luxury railway hotels built in Winnipeg back in 1906. The Grand Cafe portion of the hotel, the only remaining piece in existence, is part of the Cranbrook History Centre and is a joy to see.

Biking from Cranbrook to Kimberley in the BC Kootenays

Cranbrook is a great place to go biking and during our visit, we rented e-bikes from North Star Bicycle Co. and peddled halfway to Kimberely, utilizing the North Star Rails to Trails pathway, which is a 28-km paved trail connecting the two towns via an old railway track. This is a very easy, mostly flat pathway suitable for almost anyone and a great way to enjoy the Kootenays by bike. However, Tourism Cranbook lists many other trails in the area as well for those seeking more excitement.

Play Mini Golf

During our visit, we stayed at the Elizabeth Lake Lodge , which is not only a beautiful lodge with lots of murals but is also home to one of the best mini golf courses we’ve ever experienced. Claimed as the most difficult mini-golf course in Canada, we certainly had a challenge trying to hit par. We did well for the first nine holes and then did very poorly on the last nine. It’s just such a unique course to enjoy with so many obstacles and really detailed props and buildings. In addition, they have a bird sanctuary right behind the lodge.

St.Eugene Resort and Casino Kootenays BC Road Trip

St.Eugene Mission

Although St. Eugene Mission is not really a town, it does feel like a destination in and of itself. This is thanks to the St. Eugene Resort and Casino , a beautiful resort located in a former residential school. Transformed by the local indigenous people into what it is today, this is a lovely place to spend a couple of nights, especially if you’re into golfing or gambling. Some of the things we recommend doing here are:

Take an Interpretive Tour

With so much history, albeit a dark one, there’s a lot to learn at the main building, which is known as the Red Brick Schoolhouse. Besides spacious rooms and dining, you’ll also find the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre, a small museum where you can learn about the Ktunaxa people and how they moved, lived, and crafted for thousands of years. If you want to dig deeper though, you can take a tour from one of the elders or knowledge keepers, giving you insight into the dark past of this former residential school, the original layouts, some of the disturbing stories, and why they decided to turn it into a resort rather than a demolition project.

Golfing near Cranbrook British Columbia at St.Eugene Resort and Casino

Whether golfing is just a side hobby or something you truly play with passion, the St.Eugene Golf Course is a beautiful place to play. Surrounded by mountain views, forest, and a gushing river, this championship golf course offers a golf experience like no other, including a Par 72 championship course, up to 7,007 yards from the black tees, unlimited driving range access, a full-service “Halfway House”, the 19th Hole Restaurant & Bar, new golf carts with a GPS system for yardage, golf lessons for individuals or groups by PGA-certified professionals, and more.

Casino of the Rockies

For those who rather try their luck at the slot machines or have fun playing poker and blackjack, the resort is also home to the Casino of the Rockies, which is open year-round with a bold, nature-based design concept that pays homage to the Ktunaxa First Nations’ connection to the earth while highlighting the flora and fauna native to the mountains and foothills in their backyard.

Things to Do in Kimberley include walking in the downtown Platzl.

Recently voted as the best small town in all of British Columbia in a fun competition run by the CBC, Kimberley is no longer a Kootenay secret. Located just 30 minutes north of Cranbrook, and connected via the North Star Rails to Trails trail, Kimberely is another beautiful mountain town with lots of outdoor adventure and history.

There are many things that make Kimberley stand out, such as their historic mining tour, their unique pedestrian-friendly downtown Platzl, and their consistent Purcell Mountain powder in the winter, just to name a few.

Some activities we can recommend include:

Kimberley Underground Mining Railway

Kimberley owes its existence to the historic Sullivan Mine and the Underground Mining Railway , which kickstarted this area into the thriving mountain town it is today. Although the mine is not in use anymore, it is owned and operated by the Sullivan Mine and Railway Historical Society, which have created a very popular tour that takes you into the mine on a train where you’ll get to learn about its history from a retired miner.

You’ll start by riding the rails through the beautiful Mark Creek valley as you listen to the history of Kimberley and the Sullivan Mine. You’ll then get to learn about life from an ex-miner while he demonstrates some of the equipment that was used in the Sullivan Mine. Afterwards, you’ll come back out of the mine and into daylight once again as you enter the Sullivan Mine Powerhouse for a guided tour featuring the huge compressors and generators that powered the mine.

You can then continue the experience and explore the Orpheum Theatre, the North Star Schoolhouse, the Miner’s Cabin and the Caboose as part of your adventure into history.

undergorund railway mining tour in kimberley british columbia

Tour the Downtown Platzl

One of the things that makes Kimberely quite unique in the region is their pedestrian-friendly car-free downtown Platzl. This cobblestone area really feels like a slice out of Europe, and in a way, it was designed that way. Although they’re now shedding the image, the Platzl was originally designed to look Bavarian as a way to bring in tourists. Some of this can still be seen in the buildings and some of the features, such as the Happy Hans Cuckoo Clock. Either way, it’s a beautiful place to spend an afternoon and you can do your own self-guided walking tour by picking up a map at the nearby Visitor Centre. Some of the stops include the Kimberely Heritage Museum, the Platzl Water Feature, and the Kimberley Veteran Memorial Park.

Visit the Marysville Waterfall

Located nearby in the town of Marysville is the Marysville Waterfall, which is only a 5-minute walk from the parking lot. In the spring, it’s absolutely gushing with water, and the trail snakes alongside the river itself, making it a beautiful and easy walk in nature.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Private Hot Tub

Fairmont Hot Springs

Home to the largest natural hot springs in all of Canada, Fairmont Hot Springs has become BC’s best all-season family destination and has been a legendary attraction for 100 years. With over 1.2 million gallons of fresh, odourless mineral water flowing through the Fairmont Hot Springs pools daily, they’re able to use minimal levels of chlorine, further enhancing their tranquil, calming effect.

But it’s not just the hot springs that make this a great destination to visit in the Kootenays. It’s also home to three beautiful golf courses, incredible views, skiing, hiking, biking, white water rafting, horseback tours, and even a zip-line. Oh, and we should probably mention the spa. It’s also just one hour from Kimberley and less than 30 minutes from Invermere, making it a great addition to your Kootenays BC road trip.

Fairmont Hot Springs Lodge

Although there are other accommodation options in the area, the Fairmont Hot Springs Lodge is the flagship resort, with 140 rooms, fine dining, spa treatments, and the hot springs themselves. Antlers at the Lodge, their fine dining restaurant, was one of the best restaurants we ate at during our Kootenays BC road trip.

Golfing in Fairmont Hot Springs, Kootenays, BC.

Mountainside Golfing

Located just minutes from the Fairmont Hot Springs Lodge is the Mountainside Golf Course, which caters to a variety of skill levels while offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. We had a blast while trying to look like golfers as we skirted the many gophers galavanting about and tried not to hit the many houses that back onto the golf course. It’s also very reasonable with pricing, ranging from about $60 to $75 per round depending on the time of year.

The beautiful beaches of Invermere, BC.

Invermere and Panorama

Popular with people from Calgary and only three hours from the major city, Invermere and Panorama are true gems of the Kootenays. Invermere is the town, located in a stunning valley that separates the Purcell Mountains from the Rocky Mountains, whereas Panorama is the mountain ski resort not far away. As if two mountain ranges weren’t enough, it also sits nestled into Windermere Lake, a beautiful lake with jaw-dropping views all around it. North of the lake is also the Columbia Basin Wetlands, one of the largest in North America. I mean, does it get any better? Well, it turns out it does. There’s also Radium Hot Springs, listed below, which is just 15-minutes away. If you can’t tell yet, we love it here.

Ride an ATV with Toby Creek Adventures in Panorama Mountain Resort.

ATV’ing and Snowmobiling

If you’re looking for a unique way to get deep into the Purcell Mountains, look no further than Toby Creek Adventures . Located very close to Panorama Mountain Resort, Toby Creek offers snowmobiling tours in the winter and ATV tours in the summer, allowing you to get behind the wheel for a guided tour up the mountains. We joined them on their flagship Paradise Mine Tour, which takes you all the way from the valley bottom to their alpine cabin at 8000 feet.

kayaking Columbia River in Invermere BC Kootenays Road Trip

Kayaking and Canoeing

One of our favourite activities we did during our visit to the Kootenays was a kayaking tour with Columbia River Paddle . Whether you jump in a canoe or a kayak, this is such a beautiful way to experience one of the largest wildlife wetlands in North America. We paddled through the wetlands and into the Columbia River and all the way to the town of Radium Hot Springs. It was a four-hour one-way trip and we saw lots of bald eagles along the way. This is truly the best way to fully experience what makes this area so special.

As you’ve probably guessed by now, Invermere and the surrounding area is a great place to go for a hike. There are many options, ranging from alpine hiking at Panorama Mountain Resort to easy hikes around the Columbia River. We decided to do the Old Coach Trail, which utilized an old motorcoach road while offering beautiful views of the Columbia Valley. In fact, we could see the trail while kayaking, so if you don’t want to get in a kayak, this is another option for seeing the area and hopefully spotting some wildlife.

Radium Hot Springs is one of the top hot springs in BC.

Radium Hot Springs

Located just 15 minutes north of Invermere and sandwiched between the Purcell mountains and the Canadian Rockies, Radium Hot Springs is a popular idyllic mountain town. With so much natural beauty, Radium Hot Springs is a haven for outdoor adventure, including rafting, hiking, and biking, but is also a refuge for peace and tranquillity, with spas and hot springs nearby.

Whether you drive into Radium Hot Springs from Calgary or from the hot springs themselves, you’ll drive through the iconic Sinclair Canyon, a narrow highway carved through the canyon that opens up into views of the Purcell Mountains. It’s a magical way to enter a magical place.

Some of the things we recommend doing here are:

Relax in the Hot Springs

Also called Radium Hot Springs are the actual hot springs themselves, which are located right at the entrance to town near the Sinclair Canyon. Managed by Parks Canada, these are some of our favourite hot springs. Although the pools themselves are man-made and modern, the water is as natural as natural gets. Plus, it’s right next to a cliff, which gives it a nice natural feel, especially in the winter when everything is covered in snow. The facility has towels and locker rentals, as well as a lap pool with a small waterslide and diving board.

Bighorn Meadows Resort Radium Hot Springs

For those who love golf, Radium Hot Springs is a true paradise. With 13+ golf courses situated in or within 45 minutes of the village, each offering a unique experience, golf is the #1 activity in the area.

If you have your heart set on a golfing getaway, you can’t go wrong with Bighorn Meadows Resort. Then again, if you’re not into golf, it’s still a great place to stay. Although we didn’t golf this time around, we did spend a night in this beautiful resort that sits right next to the ninth fairway of the Springs Golf Course. This is a great place to stay if you’re looking for apartment-style accommodation. We had a massive room, a full kitchen, a living room, a washer and dryer, and a massive deck with stunning views of the golf course and the mountains.

Zip-lining adventures near Radium Hot Springs in the BC Kootenays.

Valley Zipline Adventures

Another fun activity for the whole family is ziplining in the Kootenays. Located between Invermere and Radium Hot Springs, Valley Zipline Adventures offers 1.5 hours of fun spread out over 7 ziplines that take you through the forest. They have a very modern zipline system that really makes you feel safe, and once you’re used to it, you can do some cool things like hang upside down or do the starfish. They also have an Adventure Tower for those wanting to practice their rock climbing skills.

Hiking in Kootenay National Park.

Kootenay National Park

Located just north of Radium Hot Springs and all the way to the Trans-Canada Highway, Kootenay National Park is an incredible place to get into the wilderness. Established in 1920 as part of an agreement to build a new road across the Rockies, Kootenay National Park is a place of unique contrasts, from icy mountain rivers to steamy hot springs. You can enjoy it with a quick 1-hour drive along Highway 93, by hiking some of its backcountry trails, or by camping in one of the many beautiful campgrounds. There are also oTENTiks for those wanting to go glamping instead as well as guided tours to experience such wonders as the Burgess Shale fossils, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Want More BC Travel?

While the Kootenays is truly a spectacular destination, there are a lot of incredible places to visit in British Columbia. From the rainforest of Vancouver Island to the hustle and bustle of Vancouver, below are more BC travel guides to enjoy.

  • Things to Do in Vancouver
  • Things to Do in Vernon
  • Things to Do in Kelowna
  • Things to Do in Golden BC
  • Things to Do in Victoria

' src=

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please enter an answer in digits: 1 × one =

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

road trip bc

© 2022 Must Do Canada. All Rights Reserved.

Things to Do in Canada

  • Privacy Policy
  • Work With Us
  • Get in Touch
  • Facts about Canada
  • Canadian Languages
  • Canadian Money
  • Canada Flags
  • Things to Do in Calgary
  • Best Canada Road Trips
  • Best Road Trip Essentials
  • Fall in Canada
  • Travel Resources

Travel Across Canada Every Week

Join our weekly newsletter for the latest articles, videos, top photos, and more!

Fraser Canyon Route with Thompson River, British Colombia, Canada

17 Best Road Trips From Vancouver

If you live in Vancouver and want to get out of the city or if you're just visiting and want to see some of the amazing nature around British Columbia, there are a number of amazing road trips you can take.

Sat right at the southwestern corner of Canada, Vancouver is close to some of the country's prettiest islands and you can drive further into Canada along picturesque roads twisting and winding through deep mountain valleys. The United States is right nearby as well with some great places you can drive to from Vancouver.

Featuring whale watching, mountain towns and Canada's finest hospitality, here is our list of the 17 best road trips from Vancouver.

Best road trips from Vancouver from city breaks and scenic drives to National Parks, mountain trips and amazing scenery

1. Bowen Island, BC

30 km from Vancouver (1 hour 20 minutes)

When to go: June to September for the warm sunny days

Bowen Island Pacific North West Landscape and Waterscape

Vancouver has amazing parks dotted throughout the city with few cities boasting something like Stanley Park overlooking the Lions Gate Bridge. For those that want to get out a little further from the city and get more into nature, there's Bowen Island - the closest of the major islands in the area and only just over an hour away.

It will take you about half an hour, traffic permitting, to get from Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay. From there, you need to get onboard a ferry and once it sets off, it takes around 20 minutes to get to Bowen Island.

You can take your car or walk onto the ferry. The car costs an extra $30 but it will mean you can get about the island more easily.

Sure - the whole point of going is the hiking, sightseeing and generally exploring the outdoors, but it's around 9 km from the ferry to Bowen Bay on the opposite side of the island and 11 km to Seymour Landing if you want to get everywhere in a day.

There are two places you can hike up to get great views - Dorman Point is in Critten Park, right by the ferry terminal and Mount Gardner in the middle of the island. The trek up Mount Gardner will take several hours depending on where you start (around 5 hours ferry to ferry) so make sure you allow plenty of time to go up and down. From the top, you get great views north over Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast and a 360 view from the top that lets you see as far as Vancouver.

Killarney Lake on the way up to Mount Gardner is a great stop and if you don't want to climb to the top, you can hike around the lake instead. Also make sure you visit some of the beaches around the island - the Cape on the opposite end of the island is amazing.

There is the small Cape Roger Curtis Lighthouse sitting on rocks stretching out into the sea and Pebbly beach is great for sitting around, throwing pebbles into the water as the sun sets - there are a lot of pebbles!

2. Squamish, BC

64 km from Vancouver (1 hour)

When to go: Summer for the outdoors activities or winter for skiing and the bald eagles

Green forest during a sunny summer evening in Squamish, Vancouver

The residents of Squamish have called their town the Adventure Capital of Canada to make it pretty clear what you may encounter when you get there.

Getting to Squamish is easy - get onto Highway 99 heading north (same route as for Bowen Island above) and follow Howe Sound up until you hit the city of Squamish at the Squamish River's mouth. Highway 99 is the route that connects Vancouver with a lot of amazing road trip destinations on our list including Whistler although the Trans-Canada Highway is the faster route for destinations further than Pavilion.

Once you get there, the outdoors is the main attraction and there is a huge number of different things to do be it summer or winter. There's hiking, mountain biking, dirt biking, horseback riding and climbing. Then you can try kayaking, kite boarding, windsurfing and swimming - the Squamish Spit in the River Squamish's estuary is a perfect place for water sports.

In the winter, you can do everything from going on a snowmobile to skiing, cross-country skiing or exploring the area on snowshoes!

And that's not all!

One thing Squamish is well known for its huge population of resident bald eagles. The bald eagles come to the area between November and February because of its unique climate and the large number of salmon making its way up the river to spawn. If you come around Christmas time, you can easily see dozens of these birds in an hour with thousands coming from across North America to the small area.

Don't miss out on the Sea to Sky Gondola offering unbelievable views from the top and the opportunity to walk over a suspension bridge above the treetops. It's only open from spring to fall, so you won't be able to go up during the winter months.

3. Pemberton, BC

153 km from Vancouver (2 hours 20 minutes)

When to go: Great all year round - late summer for the u-pick farms

Lumpy's trail, Pemberton, British Columbia, Canada

The sleepy village of Pemberton sits at the intersection of three valleys in the Coast Mountains range, north of Vancouver. Surrounded by snowy peaks throughout the year, Pemberton will make you feel relaxed and in tune with your younger self as you unwind here.

We've got Pemberton down as a day road trip, but you can certainly come and spend a weekend or longer if you have the time. Further along Highway 99 than Whistler, it is the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of Vancouver.

The town oozes charm with many of the buildings dating back to the 19th century. Set between Pemberton Creek and Lillooet River, there are waterways all around Pemberton adding to the picture-perfect look.

The town sits in the heart of the Lil'wat First Nation that predates the settlement by thousands of years. The next town down the valley is Mount Currie and the Mount Currie Indian Reserve. You will see the peak of the mountain from everywhere in the valley and the Lil'wat consider it a holy site.

The valleys surrounding Pemberton are perfect for spending time outdoors in a relaxed way. In the summer, you can pick berries at local farms, go rafting along the river and explore the mountains on foot, mountain bike or horseback. In the winter, you can try out cross country skiing or taking out a snowmobile. Plus Whistler's ski slopes are only half an hour away.

4. Golden Ears Provincial Park, BC

64 km from Vancouver (1 hour 10 minutes)

When to go: Summer to enjoy the lake and make the most of the hiking

Forest at Golden Ears Provincial Park, British Columbia

The Golden Ears Provincial Park sits along both banks of Alouette Lake. At only an hour's drive from Vancouver, it is very popular as a weekend getaway for those who live in the city.

If you're only going for a day, try to get there early to make sure you can find parking easily. If you're wanting to come for the weekend and camp, make sure you book in advance - the more popular weekends can get booked up very early so plan ahead.

Alongside the hiking, horse riding trails and mountain biking, you should check out the WildPlay Elements Park - there's zip lines and a series of treetop adventure routes where you can climb with a view. It's family friendly and there is a lot to keep the kids entertained.

Despite being so close to Vancouver, you won't have any cell reception and will feel in complete wilderness almost as soon as you enter the park. If you're feeling adventurous, the hike up to the Golden Ears summit is worth it for the amazing views all around. You'll need to make sure you bring the right gear - snow can be heavy at the top even in the summer!

Some say that swimming in Alouette Lake is a good way to spend the day. If that's what you want to do, you better like swimming in cold water, but it certainly will feel refreshing. If you want to spend time on the lake without freezing, you can do everything from canoeing to fishing, but make sure you get your BC fishing licence first.

5. Highway 7 to Hope and Fraser Valley

156 km from Vancouver (2 hours 20 minutes)

When to go: May to September for the weather and when attractions are open

Fraser Valley at foggy sunrise, British Columbia, Canada

You might be seeing a bit of a trend here and that is no accident - road trips out of Vancouver tend to involve the outdoors as this is what British Columbia is all about and the trip up Fraser Valley to hope is no different.

When setting off for Hope, don't follow the faster route taking you along Highway 1 that runs south of Fraser River. Instead pick the incredibly scenic Lougheed Highway, also known as Scenic 7 that runs along the north bank the entire way.

Although the route to Hope won't take you long, there are still great places to stop along the way - Maple Ridge and Mission are two beautiful towns in the first half of the drive or you can stop in Harrison Hot Springs or Agassiz in the District of Kent further along. I live in the original Kent, back in the UK and this one certainly has a more scenic mountain top backdrop!

Hope itself is a town where a few canyons and valleys meet. As a result, there is a lot to do here - plenty for a weekend or even longer if you have more time on your hands.

The Othello Tunnels are one of the best attractions in Hope - these old railway tunnels cut into the mountain rock used to form part of a longer railway network, but were closed in 1959. Today you can walk 4 of these tunnels leading you through the Coquihalla Canyon and the Provincial Park. Bring a picnic with you to have for lunch!

Other canyons offer more hiking opportunities from short walks through the Fraser Canyon to the 74 km trail across the Cascade Mountains to Otter Lake if you are up for a challenge.

6. Whistler, BC

121 km from Vancouver (1 hour 40 minutes)

When to go: All year round but January and February will offer the best snow for skiing

Whistler village in British Columbia

Most people know Whistler as one of North America's best ski resorts. The Whistler Blackcomb resort is hugely popular with the locals and across Canada and the United States.

The two mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb are connected by one of the most stunning gondola lifts in the world - it holds the record for being the highest above ground at 436 metres and until recently held the record for the longest span between supports at over 3 km!

The ski resort was taken over by Vail Resorts in 2016 to add to their huge portfolio that includes Heavenly on Lake Tahoe, Beaver Creek and Vail in Colorado. This has pushed the prices up and you may notice the resort is more commercial than it once used to be, but the beautiful scenery and large ski area is still worth it.

Be wary that as the resort is at low altitude and so close to the Pacific, wet snow and rain are commonplace and peak season is not as long as other ski areas.

Summer is also a good time to visit Whistler - you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and try out everything from white water rafting to rock climbing and zip lining.

As you drive up from Vancouver to Whistler, remember that the village is pedestrian only so you'll have to park your car and continue on foot. That is actually a great thing as the après ski is as good in the summer as it is in the winter and there are a lot of places to stop for a drink or a snack.

7. Fraser Canyon from Hope to Lytton

260 km from Vancouver (3 hours 20 minutes)

When to go: Fall is particularly beautiful with the different shades of leaves

Fraser Canyon Route with Thompson River, British Colombia, Canada

If you're limited for time, a road trip from Vancouver to Hope is a good place to start (see #5 above). If you keep going past Hope, however, the Fraser Canyon that stretches 84 km all the way up to Lytton is a perfect way to extend your drive.

The actual drive through the canyon is around 109 km, following Highway 1 which used to be the main route from Vancouver into inland British Columbia. Now traffic tends to follow the Coquihalla in the next valley to the east, so this scenic road is considerably less busy.

As you make your way up, the road will begin twisting and turning through the canyon as it gets narrower. As you go through the tunnels, make sure you find places to stop to admire the views and the towns you pass through. There are some amazing iron railway bridges that are no longer in use and a unique aerial ferry in Boston Bar.

The aerial ferry used to transport one car at a time between Boston Bar and North Bend on opposite sides of the Fraser River until a bridge was built in 1986. You can still see the original gondola construction in Frances Harrington Park.

Thompson River north of Lytton

Every now and then there are roads that veer off Highway 1 and climb up the mountains either side of the valley. You can get some really great views and see the mountains up close, but take care to read the warning signs - the locals are not in the habit of exaggerating and a lot of the roads are only accessible by serious off-road vehicles.

8. Seattle, Washington

231 km from Vancouver (2 hours 30 minutes)

When to go: All year round

The futuristic Space Needle dominates the Seattle skyline on a cloudy day

Seattle is the first of a few options on our list that involve crossing the border south to the United States. If you're renting a car, double check the terms and conditions allow you to drive across the border - most will be fine with that but be prepared to wait at the border depending on the time you're turning up.

The biggest city in the Pacific Northwest is only around two and a half hours' drive from Vancouver and it's well worth it to spend the weekend seeing the sights.

Make sure you plan your trip well in advance - Seattle can get very busy, especially during the summer and hotel rooms that are already very expensive may also become hard to find.

Stay somewhere central as getting into the city can take a lot of time - you can get about the city easily from your hotel and many of the major sights are only a walk away.

The key things to see are the infamous Space Needle tower and the Pink Place Market. After those, there are amazing museums, parks, galleries and coffee shops you can go see (Seattle loves its coffee and is where the Starbucks chain was famously founded).

If you're visiting a few of the museums in the city, get the Seattle City Pass which will save a lot of money on admissions. Also check out the monorail that runs between the Space Needle and the Westlake Center. It takes about 2 minutes and costs $3 but it's absolutely worth it for the experience and the views of the city!

9. San Juan Islands, Washington

187 km from Vancouver (4 hours)

When to go: June to September to make the most of the warmer months

Mount Baker from the San Juan Islands, British Columbia, Canada

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago of islands in the Salish Sea that connects Vancouver and Seattle.

Just south of the border, the islands are part of Washington State. There are 128 named islands, 44 named reefs and rocks and another 250 or so rocks in the area. Only four of the islands are accessible - if you try looking up directions to the islands, Google might well suggest swimming as the best option.

The four islands you can get to are San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island and Shaw Island and the ferries take people and cars - the price for a car with a single passenger currently ranges between $35.90 and $70.90 for a return trip depending on the season and which of the islands you're going to. Each additional person in the car will add $14 (discounts available for youth and seniors).

Note that if your vehicle is over 22 feet (6.7 m) long, the prices go up a lot - I don't know any generally available cars that would be longer including the largest pickup trucks money can buy, but you'll pay the price if you bring an RV!

The San Juan Island Scenic Byway is a 20-mile route that runs from Friday Harbor and passes through the pretty hills and valleys in the north of the island including vineyards, the 19th century Roche Harbor Resort and the English Camp National Historic Park where you can learn about the island's history during the joint occupation by British and U.S. forces from 1859 to 1872.

Orca whale breaches from the water in San Juan Islands, Washington State

San Juan islands are also known as the best place in the world to see Orca whales in the wild. The orcas live here all year round and while sightings can never be guaranteed, you have a pretty decent chance if you go on one of the specialist boat tours.

Alongside the orcas, you could see the larger humpback, minke or even gray whales depending on the season and your luck.

10. Explore Vancouver Island

650 km round trip from Vancouver (14 hours)

When to go: Weather is great all year round - spring and fall are mild and less busy

Killer whales at Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

To get to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island from Vancouver, you have two options - the ferry from Horseshoe Bay, north of the city or one from Tsawwassen to the south.

The Horseshoe Bay option is faster, taking around 90 minutes rather than 2 hours and is a more scenic route. Plus you arrive straight into Nanaimo rather than the much more industrial Duke Point.

Horseshoe Bay is closer, but you have to navigate Highway 1 and Lions Gate Bridge traffic so the choice really depends on where you're driving from and what time of day you're going.

One alternative route is to go from Tsawassen straight to Swartz Bay - if you're visiting Victoria this is the most direct route and you can come back from Nanaimo after doing a round trip.

Vancouver Island is huge. Given the ferry will easily take you 4 hours including getting to it and waiting time, the more time you have, the more you will enjoy your trip.

The one must stop is Victoria on the southern tip of the island. The capital of British Columbia is a historic city with a beautiful Old Town and some stunning buildings.

You can go on a free tour of the British Columbia Parliament buildings, see inside the grandiose Fairmont Empress Hotel and visit the quirky floating shops in Fisherman's Wharf.

If you follow the road around the island, you'll come to the Sheringham Point Lighthouse and a series of different National, Provincial and Regional Parks.

The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve might just be the pick of the bunch - make sure you stop by Fairy Lake on your way. The West Coast Trail that runs along the coast offers some really spectacular views.

The northern part of the island is more wild with parks and mountains throughout, split up by sounds (narrow inlets of water from the Pacific Ocean). It's certainly beautiful, but we'd leave it out of the itinerary unless you're going for more than 10 days.

Cape Scott Provincial Park at the northern tip of the island is 450 km north of Nanaimo and will take you the best part of 6 hours to drive one way!

11. Kelowna on the Okanagan Lake

390 km from Vancouver (4 hours)

When to go: June to September for the warm summers

Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, on the Okanagan lake

The town of Kelowna sits on the Okanagan Lake and is surrounded by some of Canada's prettiest scenery. The foothills of the Cascade mountains are on one bank and the Rockies on the other give an amazing backdrop to a really pretty town where you can really get away from it all.

The best reason to go to Kelowna is for Okanagan Valley wines. Not well known outside Canada, the wide valley is sometimes called the Napa of the North.

There are dozens of wineries up and down the valley and in surrounding areas and many will offer tours and wine tasting if you want to try the local produce (and try you must - you may well find yourself pleasantly surprised by the quality).

With the climate being in some ways similar to Piedmont and other north Italian or Alpine French regions, the local wine industry has used some of those learnings, but virtually every grape variety is grown here. We'd recommend trying a Cabernet Franc or Merlot - these varieties have done well over centuries in the Italian Dolomites and work very well with the local climate.

Other than wine, there is a whole range of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. You can go out on a canoe on Okanagan Lake - time it well and you can see the sun rise or fall behind the mountains from the water.

A 45 minute drive south of Kelowna is the Kettle Valley Railway - this rail track was finally abandoned in the 1980s and runs all the way from Hope to Castlegar (that is a seriously long way). The disused rail track has been converted into a trail that you can explore on foot or, even better, on bike.

The Okanagan Valley is a perfect way to relax and take time out of your busy schedule. If you want a few days to yourself, a road trip from Vancouver to Kelowna should be on your radar!

12. Cascade Mountains and Leavenworth, Washington

345 km from Vancouver (4 hours)

When to go: Plenty to do whenever you choose to go

Snow lake, Enchantment lakes, Leavenworth. Seattle, Washington

The Cascade Mountains run from northern California all the way to Fraser Valley just outside Vancouver.

One of the best parts of the mountain range is the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in the U.S. Washington State.

Getting here is relatively straight forward - cross into the U.S. through the Peace Arch crossing and head south along the I-5 until you get to Everett. From there, take Route 2 towards the National Forest and you'll eventually make it to Leavenworth.

The terrain is great for hiking - there are forested valleys, lakes and caves and trails that can be explored on foot in the summer or snowmobile in the winter months.

Christmas lights decorate the Bavarian village of Leavenworth in Washington State

The town of Leavenworth is worth spending some time in. Everything here from the buildings to the buses and horse carriages (yes - horse carriages) look distinctly Bavarian.

There is a museum dedicated to the Nutcracker and festivals almost all year round, some of which are not dedicated to beer.

If you stay in Leavenworth, you can easily venture out for the various outdoor activities. In the winter, the fantastic ski resorts of Stevens Pass and Mission Ridge are 45 minutes away (in opposite directions).

13. Cannon Beach, Oregon

560 km from Vancouver (7 hours)

When to go: July to September to avoid the cool fog that comes in early summer

Haystack Rock and its reflection on the water in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach on Oregon's Pacific Coast is one of the most iconic in the United States - the giant boulders and rock formations sitting just off the coast make for amazing views with very few places in the world being able to match this unique landscape.

Haystack Rocks is the biggest and most famous of the lot - according to the locals it is the third biggest monolith in the world. It sits alongside the Needles just off the beach and is home to a lot of wildlife including different crab and mollusk varieties.

Cannon Beach is the most famous, but not the only place in the local area you have to explore. The rock formations continue as you head further north to the Ecola State Park - you can drive but it's not far to walk along the two trails that run along the coastline.

You will pass the Sea Lion Rocks and Bird Rocks - you may be able to guess what you might find there! Crescent Beach and Indian Beach are home to a number of lagoons and some secret beaches which only reveal themselves at low tide.

Towards the end of the Cannon Beach Trail, at Hikers Camp, you will be rewarded with views over the Pacific Ocean and the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse which has been abandoned since 1951 due to the difficulty of getting to the rock to maintain it.

The town of Cannon Beach has a relaxed vibe and a well known arts scene - there are a few different art galleries and shops you can stop by to see the best of local artists' work.

With more seaside towns nearby and parks along the coast (Oswald West State Park a few minutes south of Cannon Beach) or inland (the climb up Saddle Mountain is worth it), if you have a week to spare and want to relax to the sound of ocean waves, a road trip from Vancouver down to Cannon Beach is highly recommended.

Please check our comprehensive guide out to learn more:

READ MORE - Our Guide to Cannon Beach

14. Portland, Oregon

510 km from Vancouver (6 hours)

When to go: Portland is great to visit all year round

The skyline of Portland, Oregon, at sunrise with Mt Hood on the horizon

80 miles inland from Cannon Beach is the city of Portland. If you have time on your hands, combining the two into one trip can be a great idea to mix the seaside relaxation with a vibrant city break.

After the long drive to Portland from Vancouver, the best thing to do is find a place to park your car for the duration of your stay. Getting around the city is far easier, quicker and more enjoyable using public transport of on one of the Biketown bikes. There are bike lanes everywhere you look and the public transport system is one of the best in the states making driving around a pretty pointless exercise.

Over the last 20 years Portland has built a bit of a reputation for being a foodie town. There are amazing local restaurants with everything from Vietnamese chicken wings (you have to try them!) to the doughnuts that Portland is so famous for.

You probably have heard about the reputation of Portland's breweries. There are over 100 of them within the city limits, so a brewery tour is a perfect way to spend an evening. Try some of the smaller local breweries instead of heading for the big names - the beers are crafted with more love and you can find some real gems.

One of the best things to do in the City of Roses is to visit the amazing parks you can find throughout the city. There is a Japanese Garden and the Lan Su Chinese Garden as well as the world's smallest park according to the Guinness Book of Records - Mill Ends Park that measures 2 feet in diameter and can be found in the middle of Naito Parkway.

15. Nelson, British Columbia

660 km from Vancouver (7 hours 30 minutes)

When to go: June to September to make the most of the outdoors

Nelson Island, Sunshine Coast, British Colombia, Canada

As we get into the realm of some longer road trips from Vancouver, there will be a popular question along the lines of "Why don't you just fly?".

Spending 8 hours on the road is not for everyone and there are daily flights from Vancouver to Castlegar which is only 30 minutes' drive from Nelson. But flying always misses out on the one thing that makes these trips so memorable and unique - the getting there is sometimes as important as the place you're visiting.

The road trip to Nelson from Vancouver takes you along Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3) as it snakes its way near the border with the United States. The road follows rivers running through valleys, conifer forests and has some amazing views as you climb into the mountains.

Be careful if you're attempting to make this drive in the middle of winter - although Canadian roads are amazingly looked after, snow and ice can make the drive more treacherous and add hours onto your journey. Roads including major routes can be closed with no warning with limited alternative routes available.

There are dozens of places to stop along the route if you want to break up the journey. Although you should easily do it in a day, you can explore nature at EC Manning and Bromley Provincial Parks where, if you're lucky you can meet a local marmot (a type of prairie dog).

The towns of Hedley and Keremeos are about halfway and are good overnight stop points with a rich mining history to explore in the former and endless fruit stands in the latter.

Once you're in Nelson it's all about the outdoors and exploring things to do up and down Kootenay Lake. One of the best known attractions is the Ainsworth Hot Springs. The naturally hot water attracts a lot of visitors, so if you can, try to get here early or stay at the resort for morning access before it opens to the public.

To make it easier getting around, there is a free ferry that goes between Balfour and Kootenay Bay that takes half an hour, but makes the east side of the lake very accessible.

16. Canadian Rockies Tour

2,400 km round trip from Vancouver (You'll want at least 2 weeks)

When to go: Go in the summer when roads are accessible and the driving is easier (although we've driven around in February!)

Trail in the Canadian Rockies, British Colombia, Canada

This is a definite joker in our pack of the best road trips from Vancouver - exploring the Rockies starting and finishing in Vancouver is a mighty road trip through the mountains, but it might just be one of the best road trips you will ever take.

If you're renting a car, you always have the option of going one way and then dropping it off in Calgary before flying back to Vancouver. The route here is a little more flexible and while we have driven large parts of this route, I've never done the entire thing in one go!

There are 4 major National Parks that you must travel through as you make your way around the Rockies: Banff, Yoho, Kootenay and Jasper. The first three are all relatively close together with Jasper National Park being further north.

Whether you're going in the summer or winter, start with the central part of the Rockies - Kicking Horse, Banff and Canmore are all great towns to explore for different reasons. Plus there's the famous Lake Louise in the middle which is striking - you can walk on it in the winter too!

Driving up to Jasper follows the most scenic driving road on this list - the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). It runs all the way from Lake Louise to Jasper, passing through valleys and the impossibly blue Peyto Lake. There are loads of places to stop for a drink, a quick photo opportunity or to take a detour to a fast flowing river flowing through a canyon.

The quickest way back is to follow Highway 5 all the way into Vancouver although if you don't want to come back the same way, you can head west along Highway 99, making your way past Pemberton and Whistler instead.

17. Drive up to Barkerville, British Columbia

800 km from Vancouver (9 hours)

When to go: Summer is better to explore the town, but you can visit all year round if the roads are passable!

Horses in historic town of Barkerville, British Columbia, Canada

Barkerville is a long drive north from Vancouver and while it is an amazing place to visit, you should definitely make it part of a wider trip instead of heading for Barkerville and then trekking right back.

You can add stops in Whistler, Pemberton or one of the Provincial Parks in the lakes that surround Highway 97. Alternatively, add in Jasper and as much of the Rockies as you can to your itinerary if time allows.

Barkerville became a prominent Gold Rush mining town in 1862 and as the rush moved on was declared a National Historic Site as early as 1924.

Today Barkerville is the largest authentic heritage town in North America where everything has been left as it was in the 19th century mining town. The buildings, shops and even the people will make you feel immersed into the historic town and even the food is themed in the restaurants.

You can get a ride on one of the stagecoaches, see different professions in action in over 130 historic buildings and even have a go at mining your own gold - there is plenty to do for all ages making it a great family experience.

With the Cariboo Mountains forming a backdrop to Barkerville and other sights up and down the Okanagan valley, this is a quirky choice for your road trip from Vancouver - make sure you bring snacks and think of games to play along the way - distances become larger the further north you go in British Columbia and it can easily take an hour to hop to the next town up the road!

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

Mt Ranier is a perfect road trip from Seattle

Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide

The Ultimate Sunshine Coast BC Road Trip

  • British Columbia / Canada / In the City / North America

Heading to the Sunshine Coast BC? We have your guide to the best stops here.

We started the morning in Portland, OR, but after a flight and ferry ride, we were in our own little slice of paradise. We explored the waters on a kayak, drove through beautiful forests, and ended the day with a beer in hand.

Sunshine Coast BC Road Trip - All the Best Stops Along the Sunshine Coast // localadventurer.com

Thank you BC Ale Trail  and Sunshine Coast BC  for sponsoring this trip and post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 13, 2023

− − Content Menu

  • About the Sunshine Coast and BC Ale Trail
  • Best Stops Along the Sunshine Coast

Where to Stay

  • Getting There via Ferry
  • A Map to Help You Get Around
  • Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

Planning Checklist

More resources, about the sunshine coast bc.

British Columbia is full of jaw-dropping scenery. It’s a large playground for any outdoor enthusiast, but also home to amazing food and beer. We spent a few days exploring the BC Ale Trail along the Sunshine Coast taking full advantage of the scenery.

The BC Brewery Scene

The  BC Ale Trail  comprises of 15 individual regions that you can explore one at a time (or multiple in one trip of course). There are over 100 breweries spread out through this beautiful region with more being added each year.

But as any beer lover knows, it’s not just about quantity, but very much about the quality. Breweries from the BC win a third of annual Canadian Brewing Awards even though the province has less than 20% of the country’s breweries. That means the British Columbia brews some mean beer!

The Sunshine Coast Ale Trail

BC’s southwest coast is less than 18 miles (30 km) from downtown Vancouver but feels worlds apart. It is only accessible by BC Ferries or air, and the 110 miles (118 km) stretch is characterized by deep sea inlets and spectacular coastal bays. You can spend your time hiking, canoeing, scuba diving and mountain biking, or enjoy the beaches, riversides, and swimming holes. Then after you work up a thirst, you can head to one of the local breweries for a glass of award-winning beer.

Townsite Brewing, Powell River BC + The Best Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast BC // localadventurer.com

Gibsons Landing

  • Gibsons Public Market  – Enjoy local food, art, and entertainment at this community hub located in the heart of Gibsons Landing. It overlooks the harbor and marina and is open year round.
  • Sunshine Kayaking  – One of the best ways to see and experience the area is from the water. You can kayak, take a sailing tour, or charter a fishing trip to see these pristine waters.
  • Gibsons Tapworks  – This microbrewery has a focus on high-quality, easy to drink craft beer and a place for the community to gather. They have a killer trivia night!
  • Persephone Brewing Company  – This is a microbrewery and 11-acre farm. They have an onsite hops farm and also grow other crops for their onsite restaurant, Farm to Feast.

Where to Stay:   Arcturus Retreat Bed and Breakfast  – Just 5km from Gibsons, enjoy a retreat at this great B&B with amazing views. It’s also within walking distance from the Langdale Ferry Terminal and Sunshine Coast Transit Route. Search more hotels in Gibsons Landing .

What to Do in Gibsons BC - Amazing Day Trips from Vancouver // localadventurer.com

Roberts Creek

  • Gumboot Cafe  – This establishment has been a local favorite for over 20 years. They focus on plain and simple, yet delicious food. They also host community events like art exhibits, improv nights, and live music.
  • Community Mandala – Created in 1997, this mandala started as a way to paint over negative graffiti in the parking zone of the beach. Since then, it has turned into an evolving art piece that changes annually where the public can come contribute to the piece.

Roberts Creek Mandala + Amazing Things to on the Sunshine Coast BC // localadventurer.com

  • Hangar Climbing Lounge  – This indoor bouldering gym is unique in that it gives their members 24/7 access. You can pick your own music and there is an honor system snack and beverage bar. Although it’s a small gym, it has a lot of fun, creative routes.
  • The Lighthouse Pub  – If you’re looking for the local spot, then this is the place to be. It has amazing views of the marina and surrounding areas, and you can watch float planes land and take off.
  • Basted Baker  – For anyone who gets bored ordering the same thing over and over again, this is your spot. The menu is always changing, but no matter what they are serving, they still focus on high-quality food.
  • Sechelt Visitor Centre  – Stop by to get the most up-to-date information in the area.

Hangar Climbing Lounge + The Ultimate BC Sunshine Coast Road Trip // localadventurer.com

Halfmoon Bay

  • Smuggler Cove Provincial Park  – Used by rumrunners in the 1800’s, this is now a popular spot to hike and see the Sechelt Peninsula.

Madeira Park

  • Oak Tree Market – Madeira Park is the main shopping center for the Pender Harbour region. Stop in to pick up any supplies you might need especially if you’re camping.
  • Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park  – This is a beautiful park to explore, and if you visit at the right time, you can experience an amazing natural phenomenon. During extra large high tides, the flow of salt water switches, reversing the direction and power of the rapids. As a result, standing waves and powerful whirlpools are created, bringing in extreme kayakers and surfers from all over the world. We got to witness it at an XL high tide, and it was incredible!
  • West Coast Wilderness Lodge: Inlets Restaurant  – Fresh seasonal cuisine paired with an overlook down a craggy bluff.

Where to Stay:  Backeddy Resort & Marina  – 600 feet of remote shoreline make this waterfront area a perfect place to play and stay. They even have amazing Geodesic Tents for a great glamping experience.

Backeddy Resort and Marina in Egmont BC + The Best Places to Visit on the Sunshine Coast BC // localadventurer.com

  • Mount Daniel  – Facebook fans voted Mount Daniel the “Most Romantic” trail on the lower Sunshine Coast. This short but steep hike takes you to amazing views of the surrounding area.

Powell River

  • Base Camp  – This cafe and eatery focuses on local cuisine and art. Try their pulled pork egg sandwich, which is off menu.
  • Townsite Brewing  – This brewery is where BC’s only Belgian Brewmaster works and it’s the only brewery on the Northern Sunshine Coast. They name everything after local sites and languages.
  • Costa Del So l – Get a mix of Mexican and Latin flavors using local ingredients. We loved their ahi tuna tacos so much that we had to get another order.

Where to Stay:  The Old Courthouse Inn  – Once home to the “courts,” jail, police station, and other Provincial Government Services, it is now a hotel located in the National Historic District and conveniently a block away from Townsite Brewing. We stayed in the Police Station room.

  • Nancy’s Bakery  – Known for their cinnamon buns. Nuff said.
  • Terracentric Coastal Adventures  – Hop onto a 21-foot rigid hull inflatable Zodiac Hurricane and sit back while they take you on a tour of the beautiful Desolation Sound.

Terracentric Coastal Adventures + Best Stops Along the Sunshine Coast British Columbia // localadventurer.com

  • Gibsons Landing:   Arcturus Retreat Bed and Breakfast
  • Egmont:  Backeddy Resort & Marina
  • Power River:  The Old Courthouse Inn

Directions: Getting There via Ferry

The best way to see the Sunshine Coast is via car, and if you’re bringing a car, the  British Columbia Ferry Services  helps you get there. You also need to hop on a ferry to get from the Lower End to the North End of the coast. It’s the primary provider of ferry service in the province and one you’ll want to familiarize yourself with to get around. The two that you will take along the sunshine coast are:

  • Horseshoe Bay to Langdale (40 minutes)
  • Earl’s Cove to Saltery Bay (50 minutes)

A few Tips when Planning a Ferry Ride:

  • Check times online and be sure you have the correct date. The schedule changes based on the season.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to sailing. Reservations will be canceled if you don’t.
  • A reservation is recommended during busy season (summer).
  • You only pay for one direction of the ferry: Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, and Saltery Bay to Earl’s Cove. When you are traveling the opposite directions, there is no fee.
  • On directions that don’t require reservations, get there early. During the summer, ferries will fill up. We arrived 1 hour to 1.5 hours ahead of schedule.
  • The ferries take all vehicles, including bikes. Pets are also welcome.
  • If you’re on foot or bike, you can hop onto the Sunshine Coast Connector, a bus that takes you from downtown Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast through to Powell River via select BC Ferry sailings.

Map of the Sunshine Coast Ale Trail

Essential Tips for First Timers

  • When to Go:  The coast is mostly mild, although it can reach 32°F (0°C) in the winter and 90°F (30°C) in the summer. Summers are the busiest, which means everything is open, whereas Spring and Fall may have limited hours.
  • How long you need:  We did the trip in 4 days and 3 nights, but it can be done in a weekend.
  • Be flexible:  the Sunshine Coast has an island vibe, that includes how they run their businesses. Sometimes businesses will be closed or have limited hours. If you’re a planner, be prepared with a plan B or C.
  • Pack Layers.  No matter what time of year you go, pack layers so that you can stay warm in the morning and evenings but shed your layers when it gets hotter in the day.
  • Gibsons Visitor Centre
  • Sechelt Visitor Centre
  • Pender Harbour Visitor Information Centre
  • Powell River Visitor Centre
  • Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
  • Download these helpful language apps .
  • Arrange a rental car for your trip.
  • Get airport lounge access .
  • Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
  • Get a new backpack for your trip.
  • Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
  • Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
  • More Breweries on the BC Ale Trail
  • Explore Sunshine Coast BC
  • Sunshine Coast Map
  • The Sunshine Coast: From Gibsons to Powell River
  • Sea Kayak Desolation Sound & the Sunshine Coast
  • Lonely Planet: British Columbia

Have you heard of the Sunshine Coast? Which of these spots do you want to visit first?

DID YOU ENJOY THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER

Sunshine Coast BC Road Trip - All the Best Stops Along the Sunshine Coast // localadventurer.com

SEE More Canada Guides

GOLDEN SKYBRIDGE – CANADA’S HIGHEST SUSPENSION BRIDGE

ATHABASCA GLACIER COLUMBIA ICEFIELD GLACIER ADVENTURE

YOUR ULTIMATE VANCOUVER BC BUCKET LIST

25 UNFORGETTABLE THINGS TO DO IN NEWFOUNDLAND

15 CAN’T MISS THINGS TO DO IN QUEBEC CITY

JASPER NATIONAL PARK FIRST TIMER GUIDE

SUNSHINE COAST BC ALE TRAIL

YOUR ULTIMATE SUNSHINE COAST BC ROAD TRIP GUIDE

15 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN SQUAMISH BC

BEST PLACES TO EAT IN VICTORIA BC

CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE PARK GUIDE

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

  • Your Profile
  • Your Subscriptions
  • Your Business
  • Support Local News
  • Payment History
  • Sign up for Daily Headlines
  • Sign up for Notifications

Driving BC’s Best Road Trip Routes in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 Days

Pack your bags, we’ve already got your itineraries planned…

road trip bc

Even if you only have a few days to get away, there’s always something one-of-a-kind just a highway away. Here’s our guide to the best road trip routes and loops in beautiful BC:

1 Day Away : Circle Farm Tours in Abbotsford, Chilliwack or Langley

road trip bc

Spend a day touring Abbotsford’s dairy farms and antique stores and sample fresh honey courtesy of the area’s local farmers and vendors. Head to Langley for award-winning wine and craft beer as well as the Fort Langley National Historic Site. Chilliwack gives you the opportunity to taste fresh-made cheese and tour a cattle farm. Whatever you choose, you’ll be back home in time for dinner, as each destination is just a short drive from Vancouver.

3 – 5 Days Away: Pacific Marine Circle Route through southern Vancouver Island

road trip bc

This trip includes stops in Victoria, Sooke, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan and Duncan.

5 – 7 Days Away: Okanagan Corridor Route

road trip bc

This trip includes stops in Vernon, Kelowna, Myra Canyon, Penticton, Naramata and Osoyoos.

7 – 10 Days Away: Vancouver to the Rockies

road trip bc

This trip includes stops in the Fraser Canyon, Kamloops, Clearwater and Wells Gray Provincial Park, Mount Robson, Jasper, Golden and Revelstoke.

10 – 14 Days Away: Heritage Discovery Circle Route

road trip bc

This trip includes stops in Barkerville, Prince George, Prince Rupert, Port McNeil, Courtenay, Duncan and Victoria.

For more road trip destinations around BC, visit hellobc.com

  • See a typo/mistake?
  • Have a story/tip?

This has been shared 0 times

  • Share by Email
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on LinkedIn
  • Share via Text Message

Is Vancouver's local news important to you?

Get your daily vancouver news briefing, more sponsored.

Going green: Upcoming local St. Patrick’s Day events for singles in Vancouver

simplyjolayne

An Amazing Road Trip to Alberta and BC: Touring the Canadian Rockies

What do you get when you drive through two countries, visit two provinces, travel for 14 days, and log over 3600 miles?

An amazing road trip to Alberta and British Columbia in Canada!

And, no doubt, you will be happy and exhausted by the time you arrive back home!

What are the Best Things To See on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC?

The Rocky Mountain range, the largest in North America, extends some 3,000 miles from New Mexico through Colorado , Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana in the United States up to Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.

Follow this mountain range from Colorado on a road trip to Alberta and BC and you will be rewarded with diverse wildlife sightings, amazing hiking trails, dramatic wilderness, scenic byways, and stunning alpine lakes as you sightsee along the way. If you have never hiked through the mountains of Colorado or in others locations along the Rocky Mountain range, you are in for a treat.

1. Alberta Sunsets

First off, enjoy the sunsets in southern Alberta as you are driving along on your road trip to Alberta and BC. They don't disappoint.

In fact, there is actual SCIENCE behind the phenomenon of amazing sunsets in southern Alberta.

Make a point to plan your drive time so that you can stop and enjoy the setting sun in Alberta. Apparently, the stellar sunsets are amazing due to the shape of the land combined with Chinook wind conditions. That's right, those mild, westerly "Chinook" winds drive moist Pacific air from British Columbia across several mountain ranges to arrive on the prairies of Alberta.

Crossing the mountain ranges "wrings out" much of the moisture until dry air descends on southern Alberta. And this dry air is the beginning ingredient of a stellar sunset.

Next, add in some upper-level clouds (if there is sufficient moisture) to create a "Chinook Arch".

"And now the stage is set for a really good sunset if everything else works out.
In order to get an excellent, long-lived sunset, the horizon has to be free and clear of cloud. This is why it is important that the low-level air is dry. It enables the unobstructed disc of the sun to shine for as long as possible on the belly of the cloud as it sets. And secondly, the higher the cloud layer is in the atmosphere (as with Chinook Arches), the longer the setting sun can shine on the underside of it, changing slowly from gold, to orange, to red." ~ Kyle Brittain The Weather Network

Now you know.

2. Waterton National Park

If this is your first road trip to Alberta and BC, take the opportunity to visit Waterton National Park, one of the best national parks in Alberta. Everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

The park borders Glacier National Park in the United States. Waterton Park is a small hamlet nestled within the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in southwestern Alberta.

Tourists flock to the park year round to see and enjoy its beauty. You'll find activities from hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, golfing, boat tours , wildlife sightings, walking along the lake, and strolling along the streets of Waterton.

Your visit won't be complete without stopping by Cameron Falls, Cameron Lake, and Red Rocks or hiking Bears Hump. Don't forget to stop at the iconic Prince of Wales hotel as well.

Reserve a campsite at the Waterton Park campgrounds

Check availability at the Prince of Wales Hotel

3. Lundbreck Falls, Alberta

Lundbreck Falls are the main feature of the Lundbreck Falls Provincial Recreation Area and Lundbreck Campground.

Lundbreck Falls are located near Pincher Creek in Southern Alberta. The rushing Crowsnest River plunges 39 feet to the canyon below creating a dramatic horse-shoe shaped waterfall.

You can book your stay at the Lundbreck Campground on your road trip to Alberta and BC or enjoy the day use facilities for a picnic lunch .

Don't forget to pack some snacks and Built Bar protein bars for your trip. Keep your group happy and not "hangry" (hungry and angry).

You can view the falls from an observation platform or follow a path for a short hike down to the falls. Be sure to bring along your camera.

Continue on past Lundbreck on Highway 3 into the Crowsnest Pass. You will come first to Frank Slide on your road trip to Alberta and BC touring the Canadian Rockies; between Bellevue and Sparwood, you'll pass into British Columbia.

4. Frank Slide

At 4:10 am on April 29, 1903 a massive rockslide thundered down Turtle Mountain and buried part of the mining town of Frank in Alberta's Crowsnest Pass. The slide was one of the largest rock slides in Canadian history and certainly the deadliest as more than 90 people were buried in the rubble and perished.

Scientists estimate that rocks were moving at a speed up to 70 mph (120 km/h).

At the time, approximately 600 people were living in the mining town.

The site of the slide remains largely unchanged even today. It has become a popular tourist spot and was designated a Provincial historic site. If you stop, be sure to add the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre as a waypoint on your road trip to Alberta and BC.

False stories spread around the world about a single baby girl, named “Frankie Slide” by her rescuers, who was the only survivor from the town of Frank following the slide...there were 3 young girls who survived the slide, plus 20 other people pulled alive from the rocks, along with the over 500 people from the townsite of Frank who were not touched by the slide at all. ~ frankslide.ca

5. Explore Kootenay National Park on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC

Kootenay ( pronounced Koo-tuh-nay ) was established as a national park in 1920 as part of an agreement between the Canadian government and British Columbia to build a new highway across the Rockies. In exchange, title would be given to a 5 mile (8 km) strip along either side of the almost 60 miles (94 km) of highway. The Banff-Windermere Highway was intended to be used solely for park purposes.

The 60-minute scenic route through Kootenay National Park features stunning vistas around every bend, icy mountain rivers, and steaming hot springs as you continue your road trip to Alberta and BC. But plan to spend the entire day exploring canyons and waterfalls or plan a backpacking trip along the park's numerous trails.

Whatever your adventure-seeking heart loves, you will find it in the heart of Kootenay National Park as you're touring the Canadian Rockies.

  • River Rafting Trips
  • Skiing and Other Winter Activities
  • Ziplining Adventures

The official Parks Canada guided tour app is a must to accompany you along your road trip to Alberta and BC as you experience the history, sites, and sounds of the national park at your own pace. The app offers:

  • GPS-activated guidance , history lessons, behind-the-scenes stories
  • Alerts along the way for some of the best places to stop
  • Location-specific history, photos, fun facts, and information
  • Questions to challenge your knowledge, listening skills, and observation skills
  • Experienced Parks Canada staff members offer insider information to Kootenay National park

Make this app your perfect travel companion during this part of your road trip to Alberta and BC.

If you happen to be closer to Whistler, BC, there are so many great hiking trails to explore there as well. How about a trip to Victoria, BC ? We had some fun adventures there too.

6. Sinclair Canyon in Kootenay National Park

Sinclair Canyon Pass provides a dramatic entrance into the national park. The road is busy but you'll find a number of pull out spots as you drive through the canyon. You don't even have to venture too far from your vehicle to enjoy magnificent scenery.

If you happen to hear music after stopping, it might just be a musician taking advantage of the amazing acoustics of this area of the canyon. That might be a first for any road trip you have been on, but definitely a highlight of your road trip to Alberta and BC.

If you are up for a short hike that is fairly easy, and under 2.0 miles in distance, check out the Sinclair Creek Trail on the AllTrails app .

Sinclair Creek features Sinclair Canyon Falls, a short waterfall that leads down into the valley.

There are a number of trails in this area, including the Juniper Loop Trail. Be prepared for your hike by being mindful of the 10 essentials for your best day hikes .

Only a short distance from the canyon entrance along Highway 93, you'll discover Radium Hot Springs.

7. Radium Hot Springs in B.C.

Does soaking in hot springs sounds delightful after a long day of driving on your road trip to Alberta and BC? If yes, then you will want to visit Radium Hot Springs in B.C. The pool is located less than 2 miles (3 km) northeast of the village of Radium Hot Springs on Hwy 93 in Kootenay National Park .

If you are passing by and think to yourself, "I wish I had thought to pack a swimsuit and towel for my road trip to Alberta and BC...", not to worry, you can rent both at the front desk.

Note * If you are only planning to soak in the hot springs, you do not need a national park pass. If you are planning to continue on through the park after your relaxing soak, then you can purchase a park pass at the Radium Visitors Center or at the Park Gate.

Radium Hot Springs is surrounded by a magnificent rock face. Not only is it a favorite stop for travelers in the summer time but in the winter as well. Radium Hot Springs in B.C. is open year round.

The temperature in the hot pool ranges from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius (that's 98 to 104 Fahrenheit).

8. Dog Lake in Kootenay National Park

If you follow the recommendations of the Parks Canada Guided Tour App on your smart phone, you will be directed to stop for a hike to Dog Lake as you come to the McLeod Meadows picnic area and campground on the Banff-Windemere Highway (Hwy 93).

You can't miss the signage.

The hike is only 1.6 miles (2.6 km) one way trip but offers some amazing scenery along the way during your road trip to Alberta and BC.

The river forks around a small island where you cross two bridges over the brilliantly blue turquoise Kootenay River. One of the bridges—a suspension bridge—sways with the wind...and enthusiastic children.

If you happen upon the lake on a perfect day, Dog Lake becomes a giant reflecting pool, highlighting the Mitchell mountain range.

9. Paint Pots in Kootenay National Park

Take a short hike through the forest to the Paint Pots during your road trip to Alberta and BC. The path meanders around creeks, rivers, marshy areas, and small lakes until you eventually reach orange-colored, mineral-rich ponds and streams. Historically, people used this orange-colored water and mud for painting.

If you visit during the Summer months, you won't have to worry about the muddy and often flooded pathways that are characteristic during the Spring and Fall months. If you do visit when the conditions are wetter, take note that your shoes and clothes may actually be stained —hence the term " paint" pots.

There is a sign at the beginning of the trail where someone has scratched in "Paint Pots" with an arrow. Follow that sign to view the Paint Pots. If you go in the other direction, you will head toward Marble Canyon. You may wish to plan to go there next along your road trip to Alberta and BC.

If you choose to hike to Marble Canyon from the Paint Pots, it is a 4.5 mile trail out and back.

10. Marble Canyon and Tokumm Creek Falls in Kootenay National Park

Don't let this scenic stop at Marble Canyon in the Kootenay National Park pass you by.

Park in the easily accessible parking area off of Highway 93 to hike through Marble Canyon as it follows the Tokumm Creek below to the Tokumm Creek Falls.

The rocks of the canyon area a glacial gray, but against the turquoise blue of the Tokumm Creek, the effect is stunning. Hike the easy to moderate path up to Tokumm Creek Falls following the trail which traverses over the gorge and Tokumm Creek far below a number of times. 

The sound of the falls thunders through the canyon and increases in volume as the gorge deepens and you near the falls. This is one stop along your road trip to Alberta and BC touring the Canadian Rockies that you just don't want to miss.

11. Lake Louise

You have made it to Lake Louise!

Lake Louise is a popular "bucket list" destination that is often teeming with tourists from around the world . You can't have a road trip to Alberta and BC without including Lake Louise!

In fact, Lake Louise, the crown jewel of Banff National Park, draws in millions of visitors every year.

The lake and its wildly blue, turquoise-colored water is fed by glacier melt and is surrounded by a hanging glacier and Mount Victoria. It makes for a stunning backdrop for your selfies and photos. (Just be mindful of others.)

Lake Louise can attribute its stunning blue color to glacier waters that are full of " rock flour ". This rock flour is made up of fine particle of rock that refracts the light.

Lake Louise is among the most Instagrammably beautiful lakes around the world .

As a year-round destination, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy:

  • rock climbing
  • canoeing and kayaking
  • mountaineering
  • snowshoeing
  • ice climbing
  • ice skating

With the coolness of the Lake Louise weather, the lake is typically frozen over from November through May.

And, if you are in the mood for a polar plunge into the frigid glacier water, be sure to have towels handy. The lake is typically 39° F (4° C).

The Fairmont Chateau Hotel, looms above the lake, and if you aren't staying in the hotel, you may wish to venture inside for a look. You'll find a variety of shops to satisfy your touristy needs.

Want to book a stay at the Fairmont Chateau Hotel as an iconic and memorable stop on your road trip to Alberta and BC? Click the link above.

Note * Not only will you need your Parks Canada Pass for all of Banff National Park, but you will also need to pay for parking at Lake Louise from 7am-7pm between May and October. Pay stations are available with parking fees currently set at $21.00 per vehicle per day. Overnight parking at Lake Louise (when you are not a guest of the hotel) is not allowed.

In addition, the parking lot near the shores of Lake Louise is typically full by 7 am and remains full all day. Your best bet is to take the shuttle (see information below in the FAQs).

Discover Adventures—Get Exclusive News!

Banff National Park is located in the heart of Alberta's Rocky Mountains. It is world-renowned and well-loved.

Banff townsite is located on the Bow River off of Highway 1 (or the Trans-Canada Highway) approximately 80 miles (127 km) west of Calgary. It claims the distinction of being the highest town in Canada.

If you are not taking a road trip to Alberta and BC and wish instead to fly to Canada, the nearest airport is in Calgary.

From downtown Banff, you have access to a myriad of activities:

  • mountain biking
  • visiting hot springs
  • horseback riding
  • superb dining
  • shopping and souvenir hunting
  • riding the gondola
  • taking the Cave and Basin tour
  • visiting museums and art galleries
  • enjoying winter activities: skiing, snowshoeing, skating, tubing

If you choose to stay in Banff

13. Johnston Canyon Falls

The dramatic Johnston Canyon is a breathtaking natural attraction that rounds out the list of best things to see on a road trip to Alberta and BC.

The hike through Johnston Canyon may claim the distinction of the most popular hike in Canada!

You have the choice of hiking to the Lower Falls or the Upper Falls at Johnston Canyon. The Lower Falls are perfect for a wide range of ages and activity levels. Yes, you will find that it gets pretty busy.

Start your hike at the trailhead at the Lodge. The path is semi-paved and fenced as you hike along the canyon edge and through forest. Enjoy the scenery as you stop at viewing platforms and catwalks.

The Lower Falls are only a 20-minute walk where you can view thundering falls from a bridge or inside a small cave. Perfect if you only have a short amount of time to stop whilst touring the Canadian Rockies.

If you take the trail that leads up to the Upper Falls, you will begin to see the crowds decrease as you hike an additional 1 mile (2 km). It should take about 45 minutes. Along this trail, you will be rewarded with seeing SIX more falls.

Note * As of July 2021, vehicle access to Johnston Canyon is via the Castle Junction only. Check before you go.

Planning and Journaling Your Road Trip to Alberta and BC

There are many working pieces that go into planning a road trip. You will want to do research on where to stay, what to do, must-see sites, what to pack, and then put together a daily schedule.

Buy on Amazon

The Ultimate Travel Planner , a hardcover notebook and journal, has you covered for keeping track of all your destination research.

And while you travel, be sure to make notes in your Travel Journal of your day-to-day activities. This road trip to Alberta and BC will be one you want to remember.

Entering Canada for a Road Trip to Alberta and BC

If you are coming by car from the United States for your road trip to Alberta and BC, you will enter Canada at a border crossing. The Sweetgrass-Coutts border crossing is the busiest in the Province of Alberta; however, there are many other options available.

If you are driving through Glacier National Park in the United States, you will enter Canada close to Waterton Park (see below) at the Chief Mountain Border Crossing .

All members of your travel group should have a valid passport.

Are you interested in extending your road trip to Eastern Canada ? There are so many great hikes, road trips destinations, and places to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i schedule the parks canada shuttle.

The easy and stress-free way to see both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in one day!  Reserve your shuttle ticket online  and park your vehicle at the Park and Ride, located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. Click  here  for directions.

Can I drive my personal vehicle to Moraine Lake still?

New in 2023, Moraine Lake Road is now closed to personal vehicles year round. Be sure to schedule the shuttle using the link above.

When is the Best Time to Go on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC?

If you have ever taken a road trip to Alberta or BC, you know that the best time to visit is during the summer months from June to August. And even then, it has been known to snow!

You will want to drive during the summer months because as you drive further north on you road to trip to Alberta and BC, the temperatures become cooler. Lake Louise weather can be iffy somedays. Be sure to plan for any type of weather.

Love this Post? Pin it!

Best Things to See on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC

Final Thoughts on An Amazing Road Trip to Alberta and BC: Touring the Canadian Rockies [2023]

Doesn't this just sound like a fantastic trip? No doubt you will be exhausted by the time it is done, but you will also have seen some of the most beautiful country in the world. Your road trip to Alberta and BC will be the highlight of your summer!

And if you are lucky, you can also add some caribou, deer, elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even bear sightings to your list of amazing things that you got to see touring the Canadian Rockies.

You may also enjoy these posts...

  • 99 Fun Questions to Ask Your Partner as You Travel
  • How to Best Journal Your Travels and Your Life
  • 15 Popular Photography Gadget
  • Best Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park
  • 10 Best Things About Montreal for a Weekend Getaway

Radium Hot Springs along your road trip to Alberta and BC route

road trip bc

Boston College Athletics

Vince Cimini

W : Curley, Brian (1-0) L : McLendon, Stephen (0-1) S : Cosentino, Nick (1)

Game Recap: Baseball | March 03, 2024 | Athletic Communications

Eagles Four-Game Win Streak Snapped at VCU

Road trip continues with unc wilmington mid-week and nc state weekend series.

Site logo

Thanks for visiting !

The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy.

We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here.

Thank you for your support!

road trip bc

  • Election 2024
  • Entertainment
  • Newsletters
  • Photography
  • Press Releases
  • Israel-Hamas War
  • Russia-Ukraine War
  • Latin America
  • Middle East
  • Asia Pacific
  • AP Top 25 College Football Poll
  • Movie reviews
  • Book reviews
  • Financial Markets
  • Business Highlights
  • Financial wellness
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Social Media

Newcastle’s Howe stays positive despite getting Man City for latest FA Cup road trip

Newcastle's head coach Eddie Howe reacts after the English Premier League soccer match between Arsenal and Newcastle United at the Emirates stadium in London, England, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Newcastle’s head coach Eddie Howe reacts after the English Premier League soccer match between Arsenal and Newcastle United at the Emirates stadium in London, England, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, right, attempts a shot at goal and its blocked by Blackburn’s Scott Wharton during the English FA Cup fifth round soccer match between Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle, at Ewood Park stadium, in Blackburn, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)

Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, second from left, celebrates with his teammates after scoring his side’s fifth goal during the FA Cup 5th round soccer match between Luton Town and Manchester City at the Kenilworth Road Stadium in Luton, England, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

  • Copy Link copied

NEWCASTLE, England (AP) — Eddie Howe had hoped to steer clear of Manchester City in the FA Cup. It wasn’t to be.

The Newcastle manager was in his car when the quarterfinals draw this week paired his team with the juggernaut of English soccer.

“I was driving at the time, I almost swerved off the road,” Howe said Friday.

That’s one of the hazards of having to face City for the fourth time this season. They play at Etihad Stadium on March 16.

Howe addressed the draw in a news conference ahead of Newcastle’s home Premier League match against Wolverhampton on Saturday.

“It wasn’t the draw we wanted, that’s for sure,” he said. “I don’t think any team wants to play Manchester City four times in a season, but we’ll look forward to the game. I believe we can beat anybody when we’re at our best. We’ve had three really tight games against them.”

The Magpies lost both league matches to City this season but eliminated Pep Guardiola’s team from the English League Cup back in September.

City is still in contention to repeat its treble-winning campaign after capturing the league title, FA Cup and Champions League a year ago.

Real Sociedad players react at the end of the Champions League round of 16 first leg soccer match between Paris Saint-Germain and Real Sociedad, at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris, France, Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)

“I don’t want to get a violin out and start feeling sorry for myself, absolutely not,” Howe said. “The cup draw is random. You get who you get. We now have to make the best of that situation.”

Maybe not a violin, but Howe does play the piano. He was asked about it Friday.

“I enjoy playing for relaxation and helping (his children) learn,” he said. “I did try and learn ‘Take On Me,’ which is one of my favorite songs. I’m a long way off that.”

Newcastle has played all three of its FA Cup games this year away from home.

Newcastle was a surprise top-four team last year but is struggling to build on that momentum. They are in 10th place headed into the weekend.

Howe was asked about speculation linking Germany national team coach Julian Nagelsmann to his job.

“Genuinely, it doesn’t affect me. I’m here. I’m sat in the seat. My future will be defined by what I do, no one else,” Howe responded. “I know my qualities. I know what I try and bring to the job and I have ambitions for the team and the club. I can’t control what you guys write and what speculation there is in every sense. I don’t try to get involved in it.”

More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

road trip bc

IMAGES

  1. This Map Will Take You On The Most Epic Road Trip Through BC Anyone's

    road trip bc

  2. BC Road Trip: Coast to the Rockies by RV

    road trip bc

  3. How To Road Trip British Columbia

    road trip bc

  4. BC Road Trip and Places of Interest Maps

    road trip bc

  5. Travel BC Guide: Best road trip from Vancouver to Banff

    road trip bc

  6. BC Road Trip: Coast to the Rockies by RV

    road trip bc

VIDEO

  1. early road trip across the lake & back to the cabin

  2. BC Highway 8 Westbound

  3. Northern Ontario Road Trip Day 3

  4. Road trip to Merritt, BC

  5. ROAD TRIP VLOG !! BANFF & CANMORE!!#road #trip #2023 #travelvlog

  6. Sleep in a tent in the Canadian Mountains #shorts #travel #glamping

COMMENTS

  1. British Columbia Road Trips

    A road trip is the easiest way to experience BC's natural beauty, small towns, and wildlife. Route ideas and maps include BC hot springs, wilderness, history, and small towns. Close . Search Hello BC for activities, events, places and more.

  2. British Columbia Road Trip [Epic 7 Day Itinerary + 2024 Map]

    A British Columbia road trip is one of the best driving itineraries you can take in Canada. Not only does British Columbia have an incredibly beautiful coastal region, but it's also home to the rocky mountains, glaciers, wineries, forests, ski resorts, festivals, and some of the friendliest, most laid-back people in the country.

  3. How to Plan the Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip

    British Columbia (BC) is the westernmost province in Canada, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Rocky Mountains on the other. In addition to mountains and coastline, forests dominate British Columbia's geography, creating a diverse and beautiful landscape to traverse by road trip.

  4. British Columbia Road Trip Guide & 4 Epic BC Road Trip Itineraries

    Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Details. Recommended length of road trip: one or two weeks. Route: Vancouver - Whistler - Kamloops - Revelstoke - Golden - Banff - Calgary. Estimated driving time: 12.5 hours (1039 km) I hope you enjoyed this road trip guide to British Columbia and all of its essential travel tips.

  5. The Perfect British Columbia 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary

    Middle Joffre Lakes . Joffre Lakes trail information (Lower Lake to Upper Lake)" Rated: intermediate, some difficult steep sections Distance: 10km, out and back Time: 4-5 hours round-trip Season: year-round Camping allowed: yes; If you've ever seen a picture of British Columbia, chances are you've seen Joffre Lakes - the series of 3 glacial fed alpine lakes with a bright powdery blue ...

  6. BC Road Trip and Places of Interest Maps

    Explore our interactive maps of British Columbia and plan your route, whether you're walking in the city or beginning a multi-day road trip. ... BC Road Trip Ideas Read More. Hot Springs Circle Route. 1 week / 851.52 km (529 mi) Journey from enchanting hot springs to rugged mountain wilderness. Sea-to-Sky Highway Route. 1 to 3 days / 163.13 ...

  7. The 10 Best Road Trips in British Columbia, Canada

    Nakusp to Creston via Balfour - 218km (135mi) - 3h 15mins (1 Ferry crossing) Unfettered nature is the best way to describe this road trip through British Columbia's fabled Kootenays. Gorgeous lakes, relaxing hot springs, swaths of forests and a ferry ride are all highlights of this drive.

  8. 7 scenic drives through BC

    Whether you want to hit the road for a few weeks with friends, or need to cram in as much scenery as possible into a few days, here are seven road trip routes that show off the best of BC. The Sea-to-Sky Highway - Credit: Destination BC. 1. The Sea-to-Sky Highway. That old saying that it isn't about the destination but the journey, starts to ...

  9. 7 scenic drives through BC

    Whether you want to hit the road for a few weeks with friends, or need to shove as much scenery as possible into a few days, here are seven routes that show off the best of BC. The Sea-to-Sky Highway - Credit: Destination BC. 1. The Sea-to-Sky Highway. That old saying that it isn't about the destination but the journey, that starts to make ...

  10. BC Road Trip Ideas

    BC Road Trip Ideas. Exploring the Rocky Mountain Trench: From Fernie to Golden. 3 to 7 Days / 323 km (201 mi) Find adventure and relaxation in the Canadian Rockies. Explore Road Trip. Highway 3: Rugged Parks, Culinary Bounty & Mountain Towns. 4-10 days / 247 km (153 mi)

  11. 15 Best Things To Do In British Columbia, Canada

    7. Local produce is the finest kind. British Columbia heavily supports local production. It was so lovely to see the same brands popping up throughout our British Columbia road trip as we ventured through the towns. Instead of the 'big brands' taking over every cafe, store and bar, we saw locally produced goods popping up everywhere.

  12. Exploring British Columbia: two itineraries for the ultimate road trip

    British Columbia is big, beautiful and captivating. At 365,000sq miles, Canada's westernmost province is almost four times the size of Great Britain, and abounds with blockbuster landscapes — think ancient forests, glistening lakes and hulking mountain peaks. But planning the ultimate road trip can be daunting, so where do you start?

  13. Best British Columbia Road Trip

    Myra Canyon Trestles. Hiking the Trestles of Kelowna. The top attraction in Kelowna though is the Trestles cycling trail. Located about 40 minutes drive from Kelowna, the 24 km trail takes you along the old Kettle Valley Railway. This is an incredibly scenic trail that can be cycled or hiked.

  14. BC's 5 Best Road Trip Routes

    See over 40 totem poles in Duncan and shop for fresh produce at the Duncan Farmers Market. Explore scenic beaches and parks, hike the Juan de Fuca Trail, go kayaking or stand-up-paddle boarding. Explore Sooke Potholes Provincial Park. Take a tour of Sheringham Distillery and discover their award-winning Seaside Gin.

  15. 1 Week in British Columbia

    Itinerary #2: Okanagan Valley Road Trip. Highlights: Wineries, lakes, mountain biking. Driving time: 10 h 30 min. Distance: 585 miles (940 km) The Okanagan Valley holds over 80% of the province's vineyards. Day.

  16. British Columbia's best road trips

    6: Hope to Cache Creek. Hell's Gate is the deepest, narrowest part of Fraser River (Shutterstock) The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) is a whopper of a road, spanning 7821km east to west across all ten Canadian provinces. You'll find around 1,039km of it in British Columbia, and one of the most interesting sections to tackle is the drive ...

  17. Best Winter Road Trips in British Columbia

    3. Okanagan Valley. For wine lovers and outdoor adventurers, a winter road trip through the Okanagan Valley in southern BC is a must. While the cities within this region — like Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, and Osoyoos — are known for sunny lakeside summers, they're also some of BC's top winter destinations.

  18. Top BC Road Trips

    The Great Bear Rainforest Loop. Assured to strike awe, this road trip begins and ends in Vancouver and encompasses parts of Vancouver Island, the Great Bear Rainforest, and the Chilcotin. Discover top BC road trips for fishing, wildlife viewing, travelling the Gold Rush Trail and more touring some of the top places to visit in British Columbia.

  19. The Ultimate Kootenays BC Road Trip

    84shares. Canoeing is just one of the many activities you can do on a Kootenays BC Road Trip. Imagine driving through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, passing numerous small mountain towns along the way, while enjoying delicious food, golfing, rafting, museums, mining tours, spas, and hot springs. This is what a Kootenays BC Road Trip is all about!

  20. 17 Best Road Trips From Vancouver

    The United States is right nearby as well with some great places you can drive to from Vancouver. Featuring whale watching, mountain towns and Canada's finest hospitality, here is our list of the 17 best road trips from Vancouver. 1. Bowen Island, BC.

  21. The Ultimate Sunshine Coast BC Road Trip

    The Ultimate Sunshine Coast BC Road Trip Gibsons Landing. Gibsons Public Market - Enjoy local food, art, and entertainment at this community hub located in the heart of Gibsons Landing.It overlooks the harbor and marina and is open year round. Sunshine Kayaking - One of the best ways to see and experience the area is from the water.You can kayak, take a sailing tour, or charter a fishing ...

  22. Driving BC's Best Road Trip Routes in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 Days

    Here's our guide to the best road trip routes and loops in beautiful BC: 1 Day Away: Circle Farm Tours in Abbotsford, Chilliwack or Langley. Explore the picturesque countryside of Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Langley on a Circle Farm Tour. These self-guided agritourism routes connect farm-gate vendors, artisans, local eateries, heritage sites ...

  23. An Amazing Road Trip to Alberta and BC: Touring the Canadian Rockies

    The 60-minute scenic route through Kootenay National Park features stunning vistas around every bend, icy mountain rivers, and steaming hot springs as you continue your road trip to Alberta and BC.

  24. Eagles Four-Game Win Streak Snapped at VCU

    RICHMOND, Va.-- Boston College Baseball (6-3, 0-0) had their four-game win streak snapped at the hands of VCU (8-4), falling 10-1 on Sunday afternoon. Matthew Nunan (Egg Harbor, N.J.) started for the Eagles and turned in three strong frames of work, striking out one and allowing just two hits in three one-run innings. Nick Wang (Newton, Mass.) went 2-for-3 with a double and a walk.

  25. Hot Springs Circle Route

    Trans Canada Highway (Hwy #1), east of Golden, will have up to 30-minute delays during the day and full overnight closures. Please see the up-to-date schedule of closures and be prepared to take detours, which may add up to 2 hours to your journey. From the soothing sensation of being enveloped in warm water to the therapeutic value of the natural minerals, BC's hot springs perfectly ...

  26. Newcastle's Howe stays positive despite getting Man City for latest FA

    Newcastle's Howe stays positive despite getting Man City for latest FA Cup road trip. 1 of 3 | Newcastle's head coach Eddie Howe reacts after the English Premier League soccer match between Arsenal and Newcastle United at the Emirates stadium in London, England, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)