best places to visit in bc interior

The BC Interior Travel Guide

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Home to Canada’s only semi-arid desert, an award-winning wine region and boasting some of North America’s best backcountry skiing and epic glaciers, British Columbia’s magnificent interior offers a thrilling range of landscapes to explore and all the wide-open space to enjoy the outdoor adventure lifestyle that its locals adore. It says something about the relentlessly jaw-clanging beauty of the interior that you can approach it from the Rockies or Vancouver and find landscapes every bit as spectacular as those you’ve left behind. However, in this case, the road less travelled really offers up the best sights: both major east–west routes across the region – Trans-Canada (Hwy-1) and Hwy-3 along the US border – skirt the real highlights. More rewarding are the two north–south routes: the easternmost snakes through the Kootenay region – an idyllic assortment of mountains, lakes and peaceful towns and its vast Glacier and Revelstoke national parks – all the way south to the US border near the quaint old mining town and skiing and biking haven of Rossland. Roughly parallel to the west, Hwy-97 travels through the arid Okanagan: a Californian-like enclave of orchards, vineyards, lakes and resort towns, whose beaches and scorching summers draw hordes of holidaymakers from all over the world.

The Kootenays

The regional transport hub of Kamloops effectively forms Okanagan’s northern gateway. It’s also on the doorstep of the laidback Shuswap region – a medley of lakes and rivers loved by houseboaters and spawning salmon – and the magnificent Wells Gray Provincial Park , a remote collection of exceptional waterfalls and perfect canoeing lakes. And it’s from Kamloops too that the most spectacular portion of the Trans-Canada begins: along the awesome Fraser Canyon to Vancouver, which is as scenically spectacular as anything in this incredible region.

Almost any trip in southern BC brings you sooner or later to KAMLOOPS , a sprawling town 355km northeast of Vancouver and 110km west of Salmon Arm, which has been a transport centre from time immemorial. Its name derives from the Shuswap word for “meeting of the rivers” and today it marks the meeting points of the Trans-Canada and Yellowhead (South) highways, the region’s principal roads, and the Canadian Pacific and Canadian National railways. One of the region’s largest towns, it’s a bland, unobjectionable but determinedly functional place that’s yet to completely shake off its rough-edged Wild West feel. This is celebrated during the Kamloopa Pow Wow , held the first weekend in August ($10/day; t 250 828 9782), and the early-March Kamloops Cowboy Festival , which celebrates cowboy poetry and music and even has a cowboy church ($10/day; w bcchs.com ). Otherwise there’s no particular need to stick around, but it makes a handy provisions stop, especially for those heading north on Hwy-5 or south on the Coquihalla Hwy, neither of which has much in the way of facilities.

Perhaps the most striking thing about the city is its surroundings, dominated by the strange, bare-earthed brown hills, which provide almost surreal touches of near-desert, which are particularly marked in the bare rock and clay outcrops above the bilious waters of the Thompson River and in the bleached scrub and failing stands of pines that spot the barren hills.

The Kootenays are one of the most attractive and lightly visited parts of BC, and centre on two major north–south valleys which harbour Kootenay Lake , the Upper and Lower Arrow lakes and three adjacent mountain ranges – the Purcells, Selkirks and Monashees – whose once-rich mineral deposits formed the kernel of the province’s early mining industry. Nelson is the key spot, slightly peripheral to the Kootenays’ rugged core, but a lovely place, and one of the few provincial towns with real attractions in its own right. Smaller, more relaxed, lakeside towns, notably Kaslo and Nakusp , make excellent bases for excursions into mountain scenery that has a pristine quality rarely found elsewhere. Creston offers a glimpse into the region’s rich agricultural bounty with Canada’s juiciest cherries, and Rossland has bags of small town charm and was the site of Canada’s first downhill ski race. Water-based activities – canoeing and fishing in particular – are excellent, and you can also explore the ramshackle mining heritage of near-ghost towns like Sandon and New Denver . Many of these towns and villages also have more than their fair share of artists, painters, writers and artisan foodies, lending the region considerable cultural lustre. Castlegar also offers a fascinating immigrant history through the story of the Doukhobors who settled here from Russia.

Getting around the region without private transport is tricky, which is a shame because the roads here are among the most beautiful in the province. The most scenic routes – and these are some of the loveliest drives in BC – are Hwy-31A from Kaslo to New Denver, and the pleasingly dramatic Hwy-6, which leads south of Nakuspalong along the Slocan Valley and west to Vernon, setting you up nicely for the Okanagan.

With its idyllic lakeside setting and 350-plus heritage buildings dating from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century, NELSON is one of BC’s best towns, and one of the few interior settlements in which you could happily spend two or three days, longer if you use it as a base for touring the Kootenays by car. The elegant town is famed – and often slightly ridiculed – for having more than its fair share of hipsters and dreadlocked refugees from the mainstream, but they’ve certainly helped to nurture a young, friendly, civilized and close-knit community with a healthy cultural scene. The liberal liveliness manifests itself in wholefood cafés, hemp stores and secondhand shops. There’s also a high concentration of artists and craftspeople, and the town’s Chinese medicine school and its Kootenay School of the Arts attract students from all over North America. The town’s claim to cinematic fame is as the location of Roxanne , Steve Martin’s spoof of Cyrano de Bergerac .

Nelson Artwalk

In July and August a dozen or so of Nelson’s shops, studios and galleries display the works of local artists to create a self-guided walking tour called Artwalk (the visitor centre has details). At other times Craft Connection , 441 Baker St, is a particularly good gallery to seek out.

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• Best Small Towns For An Interior British Columbia Road Trip

The interior of British Columbia , Canada 's westernmost province, is a special place filled with swimmable lakes, hikable mountains, renowned wineries/breweries, and endless friendly towns. This exploratory itinerary begins in the far Southeast of BC, which means Calgary, Alberta , could be used as the leaping-off point. From there, head out to Banff National Park and then jump on Highway 93 South, the turnoff for which (Castle Mountain Junction) is about halfway to Lake Louise . All of these are spectacular prelude destinations to get one geared-up and nature-soaked before heading into the interior. Plus, the kickoff stretch through Kootenay National Park is one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

After a mesmerizing initial drive, make a pit stop at the Radium Hot Springs, just before the junction of Hwy 93/95. Enjoy the first of many optional hot springs stopovers before continuing South on 95. The District of Invermere, or "Invermere on the Lake," awaits you next. This fitness and tourism-centric mountain town has a prized location on Windermere Lake, between the Purcells Mountains and the Rocky Mountains. Swimming awaits during the summer, and skating/cross-country skiing is a favorite winter pastime. The unique shops along 7th Avenue, combined with the regular pop-up markets, sprinkle in some welcomed social energy. 

Jump back on Hwy 95 South for a moment and roll into Fairmont. Kids will enjoy the Fairmont Adventure Park, and people of all ages will appreciate the next round of hot springs. Like Radium, the Fairmont Hot Springs is a developed pool system with change rooms and day pass requirements. If natural hot springs are what you crave, then continue in the same direction until you reach the Whiteswan Lake Forest Service Road, which will slowly but surely take higher-clearance vehicles to the Lussier Hot Springs. Going at night, especially in the winter, for a more isolated experience under the stars is worth it. If brave enough, jump in the snow or river for a little cold-shock therapy. 

Finish out the drive South on Hwy 95 and then backtrack slightly East along Highway 3 to Fernie. This historic Rocky Mountain town is not far from the Alberta provincial border. Like many towns on this list, the time of year in which you visit depends solely on the kind of experience you are hoping to get. In the winter, the glorious slopes call out to visitors from all directions. These same mountains also make a great summertime playground for mountain bikers and hikers. In either case, after an exhilarating day of outdoor recreation, Fernie offers plenty of craft food/drink options to cap things off. 

Pull a U-turn and head back West along Highway 3 to Creston. This is a pleasant place to grab some fresh roadside fruits, plunk down in a coffee shop, and even catch a movie in the cute matinee theater. Everyone is friendly and will want to hear more about your fun road trip. Creston also marks the Hwy 3/3A split, which allows for a direct route to Nelson, or a more scenic loop, which of course, you will do because what is the rush?

Crawford Bay/Balfou r

Assuming you have taken the scenic loop, you will next arrive at Crawford Bay - a tiny town between Kootenay Lake and Crawford Bay (the body of water). It acts as the Eastern terminal for the Kootenay Lake Ferry, which itself is a great way to punctuate an already stunning route. The calm waters, quiet surroundings, and artisan shops/restaurants make Crawford Bay a truly magical place. After disembarking the free ferry, make sure to spend some time in the equally splendid town of Balfour before heading on to your next destination. 

Whether you arrive directly from Creston or as part of the scenic loop detour, Nelson is a must-see. This small city is the core of the West Kootenays, serving as the commercial, population, and cultural center of interior BC. The energy of historic Baker Street and the artistic vibes and gorgeous scenery make Nelson the perfect blend of bigger city appeal and small-town goodness. Enjoy a day at the park or cruising little shops, and then try to decide which of the 50 restaurants/cafes to recharge at. 

If you drove to Nelson from the ferry terminal, backtrack to Balfour and continue to Kaslo, possibly stopping at the Ainsworth Hot Springs en route. Kaslo is a classic, one-horse town that is beautifully located on the Western shore of Kootenay Lake. The village primarily consists of a few blocks centered around the action of Front Street. The mom n' pop establishments along this stretch offer a glimpse into the silver-mining boom of the late 19th century. The Kaslo River Trail and many other off-shoot networks weave their way through the lush and soothing forest on the outskirts of town. This makes for an excellent leg-stretching break. 

Next, take the tight and winding round out of town and work your way to Nakusp, yet another picturesque mountain/lake town. Cool off in the waters of Upper Arrow Lake, stroll around the pathways and quiet streets, and maybe even plunk down for the night in one of the traditional inns or public campgrounds. Not far out of town, while heading north to your next destination, there is another FSR side trip adventure that will bring you to the Halfway Hot Springs, a perfect blend of natural pools with some light-touch infrastructure. At the end of the line on Highway 23, another free ferry crossing will help break up the drive and get you within shouting distance of your next stop.

Highway 23 will eventually meet up with the Trans Canada Highway, where you will enter Revelstoke, a small city that still feels like a quintessential mountain town. This community is situated on the banks of the Columbia River, between the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain Ranges. Similar to Fernie, the fresh powder slopes make Revelstoke a popular winter destination. However, note that Mount Revelstoke National Park also hosts the only inland, temperate rainforest in the world. If you arrive in the fair-weather season, be sure to jump on the Giant Cedar Boardwalk Trail for a short but enthralling hike. 

From Revelstoke, drive West until reaching the Southbound exit for Highway 97. Continue down through the central city of Kelowna, which is itself a great stopover, and enjoy the scenic Western shore of Okanagan Lake (the reported home of Ogopogo!). The laid-back community of Peachland will be the first town to greet you on this leg of the journey. Like much of the Okanagan Valley in South-central BC, Peachland is known for an extended fair-weather season, a bounty of orchards, and award-winning wineries. Plus, roughly 4.5 miles of beaches parallel Beach Avenue, a pleasant stretch of open-concept cafes and restaurant patios. Peachland is a place for quiet, sun-soaked leisure - never a bad thing on a paradisiacal road trip. 

Just a bit further down the road is the District of Summerland, another impossibly pleasant settlement. As the name would suggest, this place is known for its long summers and frequent sunny skies. Like Peachland, you will be able to get your fill of fresh fruits and world-class wines (if you are done driving for the day) as you relax by the water. It will be hard to step out of the sun and back into your car, but the good news is the next exciting spot is just another stone's throw south. 

In case you have not gotten your fill of sunny lakeside walks, Penticton will be there to serve you at the bottom of Okanagan Lake (and just North of Skaha Lake). Penticton is the host of the annual Ironman Canada event. Not only is the geography perfect for a major triathlon, but the active residents perfectly reflect the spirit of the race. If you feel like getting some exercise, you will certainly be in good company. But if you would just prefer to continue the indulgent leisure approach, then Penticton will also provide you with plenty of restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops to satisfy that itch. 

To cap off your interior BC road trip, roll on down to Osoyoos, a US border town with a continued variety of offerings. Its Southern latitude and unique climate bubble make Osoyoos the warmest place, on average, in the country. The prolonged fair-weather ensures ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as camping, golfing, and anything on the water. You will also find some of BC's best vineyards here in Osoyoos. Since you are at the end of the line, why not treat yourself to a tour of the District Wine Village (that is right, an entire village) and maybe even some delicious ice cream as you reflect on your incredible journey?

If you are dropping off a rental car, or want to continue West to the Pacific Coast, then Vancouver awaits at the end of Highway 3. If you need to work your way back to Calgary, simply head East and then trend North, either back up through the Fairmont/Invermere/Banff route or by tacking on a Southern Alberta adventure. There are always more cool spots to check out, whether as pre-planned destinations or spontaneous detours. Drive on, intrepid travelers!

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Things to do in british columbia interior, british columbia, visit british columbia interior.

British Columbia Interior Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that British Columbia Interior has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

British Columbia Interior is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in British Columbia Interior to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of British Columbia Interior.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to British Columbia Interior attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.

Browse British Columbia Interior activities by category

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Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

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Recommended things to do in British Columbia Interior

Discover the most popular places to visit in british columbia interior.

• Glacier National Park

Reach towering peaks and see breathtaking natural scenery as you make your way over, around and through mountains and waterfalls in this national park.

Banff National Park

Canada’s oldest national park is a place for adventure-filled getaways and stunning mountain scenery.

Jasper National Park

This quaint mountain town is the perfect base for outdoor activities and a peaceful place to stay while visiting the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort

North America’s largest ski resort has attractions for athletes and amateurs, including zip line and bear tours in summer and snowmobile and sleigh rides in winter.

North Cascades National Park

Among the colossal snow-dusted mountains and conifer forests you will find excellent walking trails and unbeatable views.

• Sun Peaks Resort

Hit the slopes in Sun Peaks with a visit to Sun Peaks Resort. Discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

• Shuswap Lake

Explore the great outdoors at Shuswap Lake, a popular spot to commune with nature in Salmon Arm. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

• Yoho National Park

Find out why this national park is named after a Cree word for awe and wonder when you see its sheer rock walls, waterfalls, deep-blue lakes and wild rivers.

• Moraine Lake

The view of this turquoise lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks has been immortalized on countless postcards and on the back of 20-dollar bills in Canada.

Explore areas of British Columbia Interior

Downtown Kelowna

Downtown Kelowna is well-regarded for its beaches, abundant dining options and lake views, and you might also want to make a stop by Kelowna Centennial Museum, a top sight in the neighborhood.

Kamloops City Centre

If you're spending some time in Kamloops City Centre, Lake City Casino Kamloops and Sandman Centre are top sights worth seeing.

South Pandosy

The abundant dining options and lake views are top of the list for many visitors to South Pandosy. A stop by Boyce-Gyro Beach Park or Okanagan Lake might round out your trip.

Kelowna Central Business District

The abundant dining options and lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Kelowna Central Business District. A stop by Lake City Casino or Prospera Place might round out your trip.

If you're spending some time in North End, Waterfront Park and Knox Mountain Park are top sights worth seeing.

Dilworth Mountain Estates

If you're spending some time in Dilworth Mountain Estates, Scandia Golf & Games and Orchard Park Shopping Centre are top sights worth seeing.

Day trip destinations from British Columbia Interior

Lake Louise

• British Columbia Interior sightseeing tours & attractions
• Hotels near popular British Columbia Interior Attractions
• Cities to visit near British Columbia Interior
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• Big White Ski Resort
• Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
• Emerald Lake
• Silver Star Mountain Resort
• Okanagan Lake
• UBC-Okanagan
• Panorama Mountain Ski Area
• Radium Hot Springs Pools
• Red Mountain Resort
• Revelstoke Mountain Resort
• Kelowna General Hospital
• Three Valley Gap Ghost Town
• Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
• Wells Gray Provincial Park
• Thompson Rivers University
• Waterfront Park
• Skaha Beach
• Fernie Alpine Resort
• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
• Prospera Place
• Okanagan Beach
• Kootenay National Park
• Orchard Park Mall
• Mission Hill Family Estate
• Quails' Gate Estate Winery
• Lake O'Hara
• Kootenay Lake
• Kimberley Alpine Resort
• Aberdeen Mall
• Royal Inland Hospital
• Okanagan College
• Hotels near Big White Ski Resort
• Hotels near Kelowna General Hospital
• Hotels near Silver Star Mountain Resort
• Hotels near Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
• Hotels near Three Valley Gap Ghost Town
• Hotels near Yoho National Park
• Hotels near Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
• Hotels near Emerald Lake
• Hotels near Shuswap Lake
• Hotels near Moraine Lake
• Hotels near Skaha Beach
• Hotels near Thompson Rivers University
• Hotels near UBC-Okanagan
• Hotels near Kootenay National Park
• Hotels near Glacier National Park
• Hotels near Orchard Park Mall
• Hotels near Wells Gray Provincial Park
• Hotels near Prospera Place
• Hotels near Red Mountain Resort
• Hotels near Revelstoke Mountain Resort
• Hotels near Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
• Hotels near City Park
• Hotels near Fernie Alpine Resort
• Hotels near Sun Peaks Resort
• Hotels near Okanagan Lake
• Hotels near Panorama Mountain Ski Area
• Hotels near Radium Hot Springs Pools
• Hotels near Waterfront Park
• Hotels near Peach
• Hotels near Okanagan Beach
• Vancouver Activities
• Seattle Activities
• Banff Activities
• Calgary Activities
• Victoria Activities
• Edmonton Activities
• Canmore Activities
• Whistler Activities
• Jasper Activities
• Kelowna Activities
• Spokane Activities
• Richmond Activities

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in British Columbia

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

British Columbia's mountains, lakes, islands, rainforests, beautiful stretches of coastline, picturesque cities, attractive towns, and world-class skiing make it one of the most popular destinations in Canada .

Most visitors to BC begin in Vancouver , which makes a great starting point for touring the province. A short flight or ferry trip from here will take you to Vancouver Island and the provincial capital, Victoria . Less than a two-hour drive from Vancouver is the resort town and ski destination of Whistler . In the interior of BC, the Okanagan Valley is another year-round hot spot, with the beaches on the shores of Okanagan Lake, golf courses, and numerous ski resorts.

For a more complete overview and to help plan your itinerary , see our list of the top tourist attractions in British Columbia.

1. Whistler

2. vancouver island, 3. okanagan valley & kelowna, 4. tofino and pacific rim national park reserve, 5. vancouver and stanley park, 6. victoria & the inner harbour, 7. yoho national park, 8. old-growth forests, 9. butchart gardens, 10. haida gwaii, 11. glacier national park, 12. salt spring island, 13. kootenay national park, 15. emerald lake, 16. mt. robson provincial park, 17. barkerville historic town, 18. hell's gate airtram in the fraser canyon, 19. squamish, 20. revelstoke, map of tourist attractions in british columbia.

At the foot of the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains , Whistler is the center of the biggest winter sports area in Canada. In 2010, this world-class ski resort attracted much international attention when it hosted the downhill ski events for the Winter Olympic Games.

While it is closely associated with skiing and snowboarding in Canada , Whistler is a year-round destination with hiking trails , mountain biking trails, golfing, and beautiful scenery to explore in the summer. Visitors don't even need to ski or be active to enjoy this lovely town. One of the main attractions is the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which joins Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The distance covered is a record breaking 4.4 kilometers. The ride takes only 11 minutes and offers spectacular views of the area.

Whistler Village is a modern, upscale town with luxury hotels, high-end shopping, and fine dining. Although, you can still find casual restaurants and regular retail and grocery stores.

The town's close proximity to Vancouver, only a two-hour drive from the city, means it is also easily accessible. The drive to Whistler from Vancouver along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is beautiful. Popular stops on this route include the community of Squamish and Shannon Falls.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Whistler

On Canada's far western coast, Vancouver Island is home to some spectacular coastal scenery, mountains, lakes, and other natural attractions, as well as lovely small towns and the provincial capital of Victoria . Coastal beaches provide year-round surfing, particularly near the popular tourist town of Tofino and nearby Pacific Rim National Park .

Vancouver Island is the largest island on the Pacific coast of North America. Much of it is very remote with limited access. If you take the time to explore the island, you'll find some incredible hiking trails , including the epic multi-day West Coast Trail , one of the best hikes in Canada . Campers can find a variety of excellent campgrounds spread around the island.

Vancouver Island is located west of the city of Vancouver and reached either by a short flight or a ferry ride. Ferries or flights will take you to the Victoria area or into Nanaimo , another popular town on the Island.

Found in the interior of the BC, the Okanagan Valley, most often referred to simply as the Okanagan, is a lush, sunny valley with lakes, beaches, rolling mountains, and orchards. At the heart of the region is the 120-kilometer-long Okanagan Lake and the city of Kelowna on the eastern shore of the lake. Other popular towns in the area include Summerland , Peachland , Penticton , and Vernon .

The Okanagan has hot dry summers and mild winters making it a popular retirement destination and a prominent summertime retreat for people from across British Columbia and neighboring Alberta. Some of the most common summertime activities are houseboating, golfing, and spending time at the beach.

In winter, many people come here to enjoy some of the best ski resorts in British Columbia , including Big White Ski Resort and SilverStar Mountain Resort.

This tiny tourist town on the edge of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is the perfect place for nature lovers looking for a coastal retreat. Endless stretches of beach attract surfers year-round, but most people come here simply to stare out at the waves, storm watch in the off season, or walk for miles on the hard-packed sand.

Off the beach, visitors can hike through old-growth forests or camp along the oceanfront in some of the most stunning coastal scenery in British Columbia.

Couples often come here for a romantic getaway and to relax at one of the luxury seaside resorts and charming lodges . A variety of tours are also offered in the area, from kayaking on Clayoquot Sound to whale watching.

Tofino has an extremely remote feel to it, but it's relatively easy to access from places like Victoria or Nanaimo. Nearby, Ucluelet is another small town that makes a nice day trip from Tofino.

• Read More: Top Things to Do in Tofino

Stanley Park is one of the great features of Vancouver that sets it apart from other major cities across Canada. This huge green space on the edge of the downtown core offers a beautiful nature retreat for visitors and locals.

The park is home to ancient cedars and huge Douglas fir trees. The seawall is one of the main attractions, offering miles of scenic paved path for walking, jogging, or biking. Trails also run through the forest. Within the park is the Vancouver Aquarium , as well as various other attractions, including totem poles, gardens, and beaches.

• Things to See and Do in Stanley Park
• Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Vancouver

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and one of Canada's most scenic cities. Removed from the mainland, this city has the feel of a small town, but is home to a wealth of attractions and things to do . The city is considered by many locals and tourists alike to be one of the best places to visit in BC.

You'll find a mix of people living here, from retirees fleeing the cold in one of Canada's warmest cities to young tech workers and a large segment of the population working for the provincial government. Somehow it all works, and the people of Victoria tend to be relaxed and friendly, always happy to point you in the right direction should you get lost.

At the heart of the city for both locals and tourists is the Inner Harbour , dominated by the grand Empress Hotel , built in 1908 for the Canadian Pacific Railway. This area is always alive with visitors and locals enjoying the waterfront, particularly in the summer when restaurants open their patios for outdoor dining and street performers take to the sidewalks.

If you are looking for things to do, take in the incredible mountain and ocean views from hiking trails in and around Victoria . For something a little less strenuous, consider High Tea at the Empress Hotel or wander by the Parliament Buildings.

Read More: Best Campgrounds near Victoria

Yoho National Park is home to some of British Columbia's most rugged and scenic mountain terrain. Snowcapped peaks, waterfalls, rivers, and crystal-clear lakes, including spectacular Lake O'Hara , draw large numbers of visitors to this park during the summer months.

Incredible hiking trails allow easy access to the backcountry, but even a drive through the park offers enough exposure to appreciate the landscape. If you are touring Yoho National Park by car, one of the highlights is Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest falls in North America .

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of Yoho National Park

BC has some of the world's most intact old-growth forests, these giant trees have stood as sentinels over the millennia. A visit to one of the stands of trees is a humbling experience that makes you feel small and insignificant.

The old-growth stands are located around the province, but the most accessible locations are on Vancouver Island. The most popular and easiest place to see the trees is at Cathedral Grove on Highway 4 between Qualicum, near Parksville , and Port Alberni. Here, you'll find walkways throughout the giant trees along with informational exhibits.

Another great spot to see the old growth trees is in the Pacific Rim National Park near Tofino. Excellent trails with raised boardwalks wind their way through the trees, up and down small valleys and over burbling brooks.

If you truly want to see the trees in their natural environment and have a sense of adventure, head to the logging roads north of Sooke in the small town of Port Renfrew. Up here are groves of majestic trees, some of which are threatened by logging. The main groves are Avatar Grove and Eden Grove . You'll find short walks through the forest along some stretches of boardwalk in both areas.

You'll need a high clearance vehicle to see the ones at Eden Grove, as the road gets very rough at one point. Most people drive to this point and walk along the road to the grove. Of all the groves in BC, this is the one most in danger of being cut down. See it before it's gone.

Set in an old quarry, Butchart Gardens offers a fabulous display of plants, trees, and flowers. Located just outside Victoria, the mild climate is perfect for changing seasonal displays. Spring through fall is outstanding, when the spring blooms come out and the fabulous display of summer color peaks.

Fall brings the changing leaves of autumn and a burst of color from a wide variety of trees and blooming plants. Extensive walkways wind their way around themed gardens and water features over the 20-hectare property.

Official site: https://www.butchartgardens.com/

Haida Gwaii is one of Canada's undiscovered treasures. These remote islands provide a wealth of culture and natural beauty, but are often overlooked by tourists. Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is an isolated group of more than 150 islands in the Pacific Ocean at the western edge of the continental shelf. The two main islands, Graham and Moresby , are located about 50 kilometers and 150 kilometers respectively off the coast of British Columbia.

The native inhabitants, the Haida people , are thought to have lived on these islands for at least 8,000 years. They were known as proud warriors and daring navigators. With their awesome 20 meter-long war canoes, they traversed the length of the Inside Passage as far south as Puget Sound.

Today, they are more famous for the skill and artistry of their carving. Their totem poles and elaborate argillite carvings can be found in every ethnographic museum on the Canadian Pacific coast.

Glacier National Park, along with Mount Revelstoke National Park a few miles further west, is a scenic area and a favorite with climbers and hikers. The parks lie in one of Canada's most inhospitable mountainous regions, the almost inaccessible northern Selkirk Range of the Columbia Mountains .

The landscape is one of jagged peaks, steep descents, and narrow valleys cut deep into the rock. There are approximately 400 glaciers in and around Glacier National Park. At lower levels, up to about 1,300 meters, the dense forests are home to some enormous old trees - western red cedars, hemlocks, and firs - as well as a ground cover of ferns. Mountain goat, woodland caribou, black bears, and grizzly bears are some of the wildlife that can be found in the park.

Most visitors simply drive through, but there are numerous hiking trails and camping facilities. Rogers Pass National Historic Site is also located within Glacier National Park.

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/glacier

In the Gulf Islands between Victoria and Nanaimo, Salt Spring Island has a small population and is known for its laid-back Bohemian lifestyle. Around this scenic island are artists' studios and farms selling cheese and homemade products. Funky shops sell clothes and trinkets you might expect to find in Southeast Asia.

The main town on the island is Ganges , where visitors will find ice cream shops, cafes and restaurants, and more traditional retail establishments and souvenirs. There is a provincial park on the oceanfront with walking trails, camping facilities, and day use areas. The island also offers inns and other accommodation options.

Ferries run from Tsawwassen on the mainland (Vancouver), Swartz Bay (Victoria), or Crofton (Nanaimo).

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do on Salt Spring Island

Kootenay National Park, in southeastern British Columbia, adjoins Banff National Park and Yoho National Park , and takes in the magnificent western flank of the Canadian Rockies. The main mountain range in Kootenay National Park reaches heights of over 3,000 meters, and the landscape features rugged rocky ridges and sawtooth peaks, snow and ice-covered mountains, cirques, glaciers, hanging valleys, and narrow gorges cut deep into marbled limestone.

Numerous day hikes in the park pass some of these unique sites and natural features. Key highlights in Kootenay are the narrow gorge of Marble Canyon , hiking around Sinclair Pass , and Stanley Glacier .

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/kootenay

Nelson lies in a beautiful spot on the western arm of Kootenay Lake , surrounded by the snow and ice-covered peaks of the Selkirk Mountains . This former mining town grew up at the end of the 19th century and quickly developed into a tourist center and one of the best cities in British Columbia . The town still has many carefully preserved Victorian buildings, which give it a charm all of its own. Nelson is also known for attracting artists and young adults interested in alternative lifestyles.

Nearby is the wild country of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park , containing numerous picturesque mountain lakes. Most of this pristine mountain region lies at a height of more than 2,100 meters above sea-level. Kokanee Peak , at 2,774 meters, towers majestically above the rest of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Also nearby is Kokanee Creek Provincial Park with sandy beaches and campsites.

Emerald Lake is one of the most spectacular lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Its green hues and glass-calm waters never fail to win the hearts of the casual visitor and amateur photographers. This lake is near the Alberta border but is considerably less busy than Moraine Lake or Lake Louise, and if you only have time for a quick look and don't want to take shuttles, this is the place to visit.

An easy, level gravel trail runs along one side of the lake for 5.2 kilometers and offers walkers incredible views of the surrounding mountain peaks and glaciers. Another popular pastime here is canoeing on the clear waters of the lake. Rentals are available at the concession stand near the lakeshore.

If you work up an appetite or thirst, stop in at the historic Emerald Lake Lodge . Dine inside the building and admire the architecture dating from 1882, or grab a patio seat and soak up the surroundings. If you want to spend the night here, be sure to book well in advance.

Near the BC-Alberta border, north of Jasper , Mt. Robson Provincial Park is home to Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies , at 3,954 meters. The magnificent mountain landscape is dominate glacier-capped peaks and huge waterfalls.

One of the most popular hikes here is the 25-kilometer trail through the " Valley of the Thousand Falls " to the lovely turquoise lake at the foot of Mt. Robson. On rainy days, the name "thousand falls" becomes obvious as the streams of water pour off the cliff walls.

The area was designated a provincial park in 1913. Even in those days, mountaineers and tourists were drawn to the area, undeterred by the distances involved. Today, the remoteness of this park means that it does not see the great numbers of tourists seen by parks to the south.

Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_robson/

Barkerville Historic Town has an interesting history. In 1858, when news spread that gold had been found in the fluvial sand of the Fraser River, there were soon thousands of men panning for gold all along the river and its tributaries. In the summer of 1862, Billy Barker made his sensational find here at Williams Creek and a typical gold-digging town of simple wooden huts, tents, saloons, and shops sprang up almost overnight. Until it burned down in 1868, Barkerville was the "largest town west of Chicago and north of San Francisco".

Although the town was immediately rebuilt, the end of the gold boom was already apparent. The introduction of machinery meant there was a need for fewer men. Following the end of the gold-rush, Barkerville continued, but was inhabited by settlers and lumberjacks.

Today, visitors will find a restored gold-mining town with about 75 historic buildings making this a fun destination and one of the best places to visit in BC. In summer, costumed interpreters dressed in period costume act out "living history," making it possible to visit a printing-works or smithy, a typical general store, a barber shop, or the "Barkerville Hotel" and feel completely transported back to the times of the gold-rush.

In winter , visitors can participate in snow and cold weather activities, like skating and tubing, or simply enjoy a hot chocolate and some time outdoors.

Official site: http://www.barkerville.ca/

A three-hour drive east of Vancouver is one of Canada's most impressive gorges. Here, the raging torrents of the Fraser River force their way through a narrow pass, known as Hell's Gate, between rocky walls towering almost vertically above the river.

The Hell's Gate Airtram is the best way to view this part of the Fraser Canyon. In days gone by, the Indians found a perilous way across by using ladders. Today, a funicular railway , with impressive views of the wild gorge below, leads down to the lower bank 150 meters below. At the base, are souvenir shops, a restaurant, and a small information center. A climb of a few minutes takes visitors down a reasonable path to the white, foaming river below. The opposite bank can be reached by means of a swaying suspension bridge .

Official site: http://www.hellsgateairtram.com/visit/

Once a sleepy town with an industrial economy, Squamish today is a fast growing, bustling community. Filled with an eclectic mix of those fleeing Vancouver, longtime locals, and a transient population made up of skiers and climbers, Squamish has a vibe all its own.

The city is located at the far end of Howe Sound and is spread out along Highway 99. Downtown is a collection of interesting and functional stores and, of course, a good number of coffee shops. Although the town is nice, the main draw here is the scenery, with the 700-meter-high Stawamus Chief rock face and Shannon Falls both located nearby.

One of the popular things to do when visiting Squamish is to ride the Sea to Sky Gondola. This incredible sightseeing experience allows you to access areas that would normally take long hours, if not days, of hiking to reach. At the top, a suspension bridge extends to a fantastic lookout.

In the summer you used to see kiteboarders and their colorful kites racing across the water. Unfortunately with the closure of the road to the launching site due to environmental concerns, this spectacle is now much, if not completely, diminished.

Read More: Top-Rated Hikes in Squamish, BC

The small town of Revelstoke, more commonly referred to as "Revy," is one of the best places to visit in the interior of BC. Roughly halfway between Banff and Kamloops, Revelstoke is known as one of the premier destinations in Canada, if not the world, for heli-skiing. Towering peaks stuffed with powder snow surround the town, and people come from far and wide to make fresh tracks in the untouched wilderness.

If heli-skiing isn't in your budget, the local ski hill, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, is a good option. The resort gets its fair share of the legendary snow falling on the nearby peaks. The town itself is a decent place to stay, with a cute main street and an excellent railway museum.

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British Columbia Bucket List: 18 Best Places To Visit In British Columbia

Do you need ideas for your British Columbia bucket list? We’ve spent more than a year living and traveling in British Columbia, and we inevitably fell for Canada’s West Coast. How could we not? From the majestic Rocky Mountain to the Pacific Coast, British Columbia is a paradise for outdoor lovers, and you can experience truly wild and untouched nature here. Or good wine. Surfing beaches. World-class ski resorts. Unique cities.

In this post we show you the best places to visit in British Columbia. Most of them we’ve already visited, but there’s a few which are still bucket list items.

Get your BC road trip guide so that all the planning is done, you’re ready to go and enjoy BC.

Vancouver and its surroundings

We’re lucky to live in one of the best cities in the world: Vancouver. (Biased opinion, I know, but we stand by it.) There’s a high chance you’ll start your BC adventure in Vancouver, anyway, and don’t make the mistake of immediately leaving it. Hugged by the ocean and the mountains, Vancouver is a perfect blend of a lively city and amazing nature.

Bike or walk around the Stanley Park Seawall , one of the best urban parks in the world, that has its own island. Visit some of Vancouver’s cool neighborhoods, like Gastown , Granville Island or Yaletown . Marvel at the waves on English Bay Beach or Kitsilano Beach . Go up to Vancouver Lookout for a 360 degrees panorama of Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet and the North Shore.

just a random magical rainforest trail near Vancouver

But the highlights are not only in Vancouver Downtown, you can actually find just as fabulous places outside of it. Venture out to the parks in Metro Vancouver. Visit the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , cross its 140 meters long suspension bridge, stretching 70 meters above Capilano River. Get impressed while hiking in Lynn Canyon . Try scuba diving in Whytecliff Park – or observe seals basking in the sun on Whyte Islet. Go kayaking in Deep Cove. Take the cable car to Grouse Mountain . Conquer peaks in the North Shore Mountains.

Read this post, too: How To Spend 3 Days In Vancouver?

What’s the downside? You can barely see anything if you only have a few days. But look on the bright side: even if you only explore Vancouver and its surroundings, you can experience some of the best things to do in British Columbia.

Canadian geese on the lawn in front of the British Columbia Parliament

The provincial capital of British Columbia is smaller than Vancouver, and it offers a different experience. The vibe in Victoria reminded us of European cities, and it has some wonderful pieces of Victorian architecture. The heart of the city is the Inner Harbor and the Fisherman’s Wharf. This is where you find the British Columbia Parliament building or the Fairmont Empress Hotel, which was built in 1908 for the Canadian Pacific Railway.

But there’s one thing in which Victoria is quite similar to Vancouver: nature is close. Take advantage of it! We liked the surroundings of Victoria even more than the city itself : the Butchart Gardens with its themed flower gardens and water features, East Sooke Regional Park, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, Sooke Potholes or the rushing waterfalls nearby.

Squamish is located at the end of Howe Sound, and – surprise, no surprise – it’s the surrounding nature that makes it so impressive. Squamish is a great base for adventure lovers: you can conquer the picturesque cliffs of Stawamus Chief (there are options for hikers and climbers, too), take the Sea to Sky Gondola for stunning views of Howe Sound and even more hiking trails at higher elevations, visit Shannon Falls or go whitewater rafting.

If you drive the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler , Squamish is a worthwhile stop halfway. If you live in Vancouver (yeah, like us), Squamish will be among your favorite day trips.

The drive from Vancouver to Whistler is amazing, anyway, and each of your stops offer plenty of outdoor adventures.

Whistler is one of the best winter destinations in Canada, with a world-class ski resort that’s among the biggest ones in North America. At the foot of the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, skiing season is long here, but summer can be just as wonderful : with hiking trails to vibrant, turquoise lakes and glaciers (like Rainbow Lake, Iceberg Lake , Wedgemount Lake), mountain biking opportunities, golf courses and seaplane tours in Whistler Village. While I find Whistler wonderful in every season, summer is my true love. Passionate skiers and snowboarders will vote for winter though.

Green Lake or Lost Lake are easily accessible lakes with stunning scenery. Lost Lake is popular for swimming, as well, in the summer months.

Vancouver Island

Visiting Vancouver Island is one of the most popular things to do in British Columbia. It would deserve its own lengthy post, because this 290-mile stretch of land is a mix of fabulous beaches, dramatic coastline, pristine forest, tranquil lakes and artsy towns. No to mention Victoria and its surroundings. You can easily spend weeks here, but a few days will also impress.

However, don’t even try to see everything in a few days. It’s a long island with many remote areas, so choose one region and explore that if you have a very limited time.

Some of our favorite places to put on your Vancouver Island bucket list:

• Tofino : one of the best surfing spots in all Canada; it also offers easy, scenic coastal trails
• Pacific Rim National Park : fabulous coastal scenery and old-growth forests
• Juan de Fuca Provincial Park : wild beaches (several of them have waterfalls on the beach), untouched coastline
• Elk Falls Provincial Park : one of the most impressive waterfalls on Vancouver Island
• Strathcona Provincial Park : a remote park with endless pine forests, lakes, amazing waterfalls
• Victoria and the nearby waterfalls, trails, coastal parks
• Nanaimo : the main attractions are also the lovely coastal parks and waterfalls near the city

Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is a somewhat isolated, idyllic coastal area with many tiny islands and inlets, backed up by giant, rugged mountains that cut if ott from direct road connections. It lies north of Vancouver, along the Strait of Georgia, and it can be accessed by taking a ferry, helicopter or plane.

Are you looking for easy coastal trails with jaw-dropping scenery? Then add the Sunshine Coast to your BC bucket list. (Don’t let the name mislead you though. The Pacific Northwest has a rainy climate for the majority of the year.)

Yoho National Park

Your BC adventures are not complete without the Rocky Mountains. Bordering Alberta’s famous Banff National Park, Yoho is smaller, but just as magical, with rugged mountain terrain, snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers and waterfalls, and crystal clear lakes. With quite some attractions located along the road, it’s a perfect stop on any Canadian Rockies road trip.

Yoho National Park is home to Takakkaw Falls (373 m), the second tallest waterfall in British Columbia, Emerald Lake , an alpine lake named for its magical color, or the picturesque Yoho Valley .

Kootenay National Park

Adjoining Banff and Yoho, Kootenay National Park is another of the seven national and provincial parks that form the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. Its main mountain range reaches 3000 meters, so this park also has a landscape with sawtooth peaks, dramatic ridges, glaciers and narrow gorges.

Kootenay National Park also has easily accessible attractions, like Marble Canyon, Numa Falls or the Paint Pots . My favorite hike there is Stanley Glacier Trail.

Glacier National Park

While you might have heard about Yoho and Kootenay, and visiting them are bucket list things to do in BC for many people, fewer know about Glacier National Park. What?! No, not the Glacier National Park of Montana, this is the Glacier National Park of British Columbia. With high peaks, about 400 active glaciers and one of Canada’s largest cave systems.

It lies in the northern Selkirk Range of the Columbia Mountains, and most of the park is very hard to access. There are some shorter nature trails, challenging, very scenic day hikes – and the backcountry. You have a chance to bump into mountain goats, black bears or grizzly bears, or even woodland caribous. The Trans-Canada Highway runs through the park, so you can enjoy the amazing scenery even from the car.

Our favorite hike in Glacier National Park is Asulkan Valley Trail , a steep, picturesque valley that ends at a glacier. It’s also on the list of our favorite hiking trails in BC.

Mount Revelstoke National Park

Not far from Glacier National Park, here’s another gem that’s not so well-known, but so easily accessible: Mount Revelstoke National Park. You can drive straight up to the peak of Mount Revelstoke on 26 km long Meadows in the Sky Parkway.

You find several short trails in the summit area, and there’s a few longer ones. Miller, Eva & Jade Lakes Trail is one of the most scenic lake hikes in British Columbia.

Actually, casually listing Yoho, Kootenay, Glacier and Mount Revelstoke National Parks makes us realize just how lucky we are to live in a province that is so full of out-of-fairy-tale mountains. No, they don’t feel like they’re the same. Yes, they impress each and every time we get to see a piece of them. Don’t miss the mountains of BC – and prepare for the most epic alpine views you’ve ever seen!

The sleepy little town of Revelstoke is at the foot of Mount Revelstoke, and it doesn’t offer many sights, but it’s a prime destination for heli-skiing . The Revelstoke Mountain Resort has North America’s longest vertical descent at 5,620 feet (1713 m), and it also has plenty of powdery snow each winter. The Sutton Place Revelstoke Mountain Resort gives easy access to this ski paradise and perfect conditions to relax after a tiring day.

So there’s nothing in Revelstoke. Nothing but mountains. Like in most of BC. 🙂

Garibaldi Provincial Park

Sigh. I bet you’ve seen it on Instagram countless times: girls in pretty dresses posing at Garibaldi Lake. Just to make things clear: you need hiking boots and clothes to reach the lake , so carry the pretty outfit in your backpack if you want that picture.

But Garibaldi Provincial Park is more than Garibaldi Lake. It offers long, challenging hiking trails with unforgettable alpine scenery. It’s within day trip distance from Vancouver, which means that this park is very busy in the summer months. And it’s not really accessible for the rest of the year.

While we think Garibaldi Lake and this provincial park deserves the fame, avoid summer weekends. Check if you need a day pass – they’re free, but mandatory in the busiest period of the year.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

British Columbia is so rich in waterfalls! They’ll amaze you no matter where you go within the province. But there’s one park that waterfall lovers simply can’t miss: Well Gray Provincial Park, “Canada’s waterfall playground”.

It has 41 named waterfalls and an untamed wilderness, shaped by volcanoes and glaciers, dominated by powerful rivers and endless pine forests. The waterfalls are roaring, and quite a lot of them have an impressive size, but the lava rock bowls behind them, the basalt canyons, the crystal clear mountain rivers and the surrounding wilderness are all part of the magic.

Helmcken Falls is the most famous waterfall in Wells Gray. It’s 141 meters (463 ft) high and can be seen from a viewing platform that’s a few minutes walk from the parking lot. Spahat Falls and Moul Falls are also on Murtle River – they make our TOP 3 waterfalls in the park.

The main area of Well Gray Provincial Park can be accessed from Clearwater. The road is paved until Helmcken Falls, after that it’s a dirt road all the way to Clearwater Lake. Road conditions vary, but you can usually get to Helmcken Falls all year. Wells Gray Provincial Park has some more remote areas, too, accessible on minor roads that are partly unpaved, or accessible exclusively on water.

Mount Robson Provincial Park

3954 meters high Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and it’s not even located in any of the national parks. It has its own provincial park though, bordering Alberta and famous Jasper National Park. You can admire the peaks from the road as you drive through, and there are a few short hiking trails by the road, but the main attractions of Mount Robson Provincial Park require long and demanding hikes.

We liked the short and easy trail to Overlander Falls. The trail to Berg Lake seems stunning, but it was not a realistic objective for us with a 3-year-old.

Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park

Located right on the border of BC and Alberta, Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park offers majestic, untouched mountain scenery. The pyramid-shaped peak of Mount Assiniboine is known as the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies, but you find countless lakes and glaciers worthy of praise, as well.

This park is not for road trippers though. There’s no road into the park, only multi-day hiking trails – or helicopter rides. 5-6 days of backpacking is recommended to see some of the highlights in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, and definitely plan your routes and overnight stays in advance.

This park is one of the few places on this list where we haven’t been, simply because there are so many beautiful places in this province, and too many of them are much easier to access. It would be worth a visit, but it should be a well-planned, longer one.

Okanagan Valley

While mountains impressed us, we expected to find them in BC, because we knew that most of the province is mountains. Okanagan Valley on the other hand was a true surprise. It was like stumbling upon a piece of the Mediterranean in Canada!

With hot, dry summers and hundreds of (not glacial-fed, so warm enough) lakes, the Okanagan Valley is the best beach destination in British Columbia. It’s also one of Canada’s premier wine-producing regions. The 120 km long Okanagan Lake is the heart of the region, with the city of Kelowna on its eastern shore. The scenery is spectacular even if you only drive through, but the countless wineries and beaches are surely worth some stops along the way.

Slocan Lake

“Take the road less traveled.” The statement stands true for the Arrow-Slocan region, with about 20 small communities, scenic roads, farmland, rivers and crystal clear lakes with mountain backdrops. This was one of those regions on our BC road trip where we had most of the attractions to ourselves, or shared them with a few local families.

Slocan Lake is a huge, deep, wonderful lake in the Slocan River Valley. No major river feeds the lake, but several small streams bring cold water into it. Its water temperature is not nearly as pleasant as some of the lakes in the Okanagan Valley, but we could easily mistake it for the sea – so huge and perfectly blue. We had a few short swims, but hiking was our favorite activity here. Boating and fishing are also popular.

Nestled between the West Kootenay and Valhalla mountain ranges, you can choose any trail on the steep shoreline of Slocan Lake to enjoy spectacular views. Bannock Point Recreation Site has short trails to scenic viewpoints, and Valhalla Provincial Park offers longer, more remote trails into the wilderness.

This region is most likely quite out of your way though. Coming from Revelstoke, we had to take the Upper Arrow Lake Ferry, linking Shelter Bay and Galena Bay and providing free(!) ferry service, then drive down on Highway 6. But what a peaceful paradise we found!

Great Bear Rainforest

Finally, another place which is still on our BC bucket list: Great Bear Rainforest. It’s a temperate rainforest that covers 6.4 million hectares (roughly the size of Ireland) and is home to rich wildlife and marine life. Spirit Bears, unique white-colored sub-species of the black bear, can only be found here. No big cities, busy highways or anything of that sort around. Just nature – and nature is more than enough.

It’s a remote region, flying, hiking or sailing is the way to explore it. Bella Coola and Kitimat are two of the small communities that are great bases to immerse yourself in the solitude and beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest.

Now, tell us what are your favorite places in British Columbia?

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase. This is how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. 🙂

Which are the best lesser-known hikes in North America?

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Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

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24 Best Places to Visit in British Columbia

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

British Columbia is Canada’s four-season playground. With mild winters and balmy summers, BC is filled with beautiful places to visit from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Coast it has an endless supply of outdoor adventures, world-class vineyards, and beautiful scenery. If you are planning a trip to Canada’s West Coast, these are the best places to visit in British Columbia to add to your travel bucket list.

We’ve been lucky enough to have lived in British Columbia and even though we aren’t BC residents anymore, we make a point of going back regularly. In fact, I think we travel more to British Columbia now that we don’t live there anymore. We have explored all corners of the province and these are some ideas to spark your wanderlust to explore Canada’s West Coast.

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in British Columbia

1. Vancouver

Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada that offers the perfect blend of urban and outdoor adventures. When planning your travels to British Columbia, chances are you will start in Vancouver . This beautiful city has everything you would want in an urban center yet, it is filled with outdoor activities. Stanley Park is home to the famous sea wall that is perfect for cycling and hiking. There’s the Vancouver Aquarium which is a top attraction in Stanley Park and there are plenty of walking trails, a marina, and the Stanley Park Totem Poles.

Granville Island is a not to miss destination in Vancouver with art galleries, restaurants, cafes, and exhibits on a bustling island in the heart of the city.

Read More About Vancouver

• Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Hotels & Vacation Rentals By Area
• 26 Best Things to do in Vancouver, BC

2. Whistler

It’s Canada’s winter destination, but Whistler is one of the best places to visit in British Columbia in summer too. Make your way to Whistler Village to enjoy the great outdoors of the coastal mountains. Home to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Whistler is an outdoor lover’s playground with World Cup ski hills, a bobsleigh track, and endless cross country ski trails.

In the summer, there’s fantastic hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing and Whistler Village is a year-round retreat filled with restaurants, cafes, and plenty of activities.

Read More About Whistler

• 30 Awesome Things to Do in Whistler, BC
• Snowmobile Whistler – Into the Backcountry, We Go
• First on the Mountain – Fresh Tracks in Whistler
• Everything You Need to Know to Go Skiing in Whistler

3. Squamish

Located between Vancouver and Whistler, Squamish is often overlooked as a quick stop on the Sea to Sky highway road trip, but this town is worth spending a few days. It’s a rock climbing Mecca with professional climbers flocking to tackle the Squamish Chief (Stawamus Chief Mountain ).

The Britannia Mine Museum is a fascinating walk through time and there are plenty of waterfalls and hiking trails and whitewater rafting around Squamish. If you don’t want to hike or climb to the top of Squamish Chief, you can take the Sea to Sky Gondola up for high views of Howe Sound, where you can test your nerves by crossing the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. There’s excellent dining and Squamish is one of the best places in British Columbia to see bald eagles.

• 14 Amazing Things to Do in Squamish BC
• Vancouver to Whistler – Best of the Sea to Sky Highway

4. Sunshine Coast

This drive up the rugged and remote stretch of the BC coast is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. The Sunshine Coast is located north of Vancouver along the Straight of Georgia. Located on the mainland of BC, one would think it is an easy drive, but the only way to access the Sunshine Coast is by taking a ferry, helicopter, or plane. Taking the ferry from Horseshoe Bay transforms you to one of the most beautiful coastlines in BC.

As you drive north, you’ll come into Gibsons Landing, home to the filming location of the legendary Canadian TV Show, the Beachcombers before you begin the drive up to Lund where you can jump on excursions to Desolation Sound. The Sunshine Coast is also known for some of the best mountain biking in British Columbia.

Read More About The Sunshine Coast

• Ultimate Things to do on A Sunshine Coast Road Trip

4. Desolation Sound

Lund is the jumping-off point for Desolation Sound and it is easy to book tours from the  Lund Resort at Klah a Men  or from Terracentric Coastal Adventures in the Marina. From here you can go out to Hernando and Savory Island which are known as the Hawaii of the North thanks to its sandy beach and Major Rock which is home to a colony of sea lions and to see a large colony of sea birds as well.

It is easy to book water taxis to the islands around Desolations Sound. Prices start at $12 per person one way.  Check rates and times here. Or if you want a real adventure, you can hike all the way up to Desolation Sound as part of the Sunshine Coast Trail.

If you visit Lund, a great place to stay in the   Lund Resort at Klah ah men . This boutique resort is the first of fully-run Indigenous resort on the Sunshine Coast and it was named the Most Outstanding Indigenous Accommodations by Indigenous Tourism of Canada.

6. Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan Valley is one of Canada’s premier wine-producing regions. Located in Southern British Columbia, it is a year-round vacation destination. It’s also one of the premier places in Canada to retire. Consisting of Kelowna and Penticton and Vernon BC, there are plenty of things to keep you busy as you explore this expansive valley that is 200km long and 20 km wide. Okanagan Lake is the main lake of the region.

Considered the fruit basket of British Columbia, there are plenty of vineyards and fruit farms that grow cherries, plums, pears, peaches, and apples. Read more about this region on Best British Columbia Road Trip – Vancouver to Revelstoke

One of our favourite cities to visit in the Okanagan Valley is Kelowna.  This town not only has a glorious wine scene but there’s also a fabulous food scene, distilleries, and outdoor activities galore. One of the best things to do in Kelowna is to hike or cycle the Kettle Valley Railway trail at Myra Canyon.

The trestle bridges of the Kettle Valley Railway in Myra Canyon offer one of the most spectacular views in British Columbia, let alone the Okanagan Valley. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail itself runs from Hope to Castlegar and is actually 650-kilometers long, but the most beautiful views are located just outside of Kelowna in Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park.

Located on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake, there are plenty of watersports in the summer and you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis to explore the gorgeous scenery from the beach in downtown Kelowna. Read more at Best Things to do in Kelowna British Columbia

8. Penticton

Another major city in the Okanagan Valley, Penticton should also be added to your list of places to visit in British Columbia. Surrounded by mountains and located between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, Penticton is a nature lover’s dream. This lovely Okanagan Valley city has lakeside promenades, beaches, hiking trails, and skiing at nearby Apex Mountain. Apex was the first place Dave and I went skiing in British Columbia. Like Kelowna is in the heart of wine country with vineyards and orchards to visit nearby. Watch our flight over the beautiful countryside.

9. Kamloops

When looking for places to visit in British Columbia, Kamloops doesn’t pop at the top of mind, but it is a popular stop on the Rocky Mountaineer so many people may have heard of it. As with so many places in British Columbia, Kamloops has plenty of outdoor activities and it should definitely be added to your list. Stay at the Sandman Signature Hotel on the waterfront.

Another nature-lovers escape, Kamloops has everything you could want to get outside. Hiking through its desert-like valleys is a unique experience with Hoodoos and sandstone canyons lining the way. There are 100 lakes nearby, endless hiking and biking trails and you can learn about BC wildlife at the Wildlife Park which rescues and rehabilitates local wildlife. Check out more at The Rocky Mountaineer Experience – Vancouver to Banff

10. Revelstoke

Revelstoke is often overlooked for Whistler, but this mountain playground is a great alternative to the more popular ski resorts of British Columbia and Alberta . Revelstoke Mountain Resort houses North America’s longest vertical descent at 1713m (5,620 feet) and has some of the best ski conditions in Canada with an average of 10.5 meters (34 feet) of powder each winter. Make sure to stay at The Sutton Place Revelstoke Mountain Resort right in the village next to the hills for optimal adventure and luxury in Revelstoke.

While Revelstoke is known for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding, it is also an amazing place to visit in the summer too. Revelstoke Mountain Resort has adventures for everyone from downhill mountain biking, hiking, an aerial adventure park, and a mountain coaster. But there are plenty of things to do in downtown Revelstoke with an aspiring food scene, shopping, museums, and outdoor adventures in Mount Revelstoke National Park.

Read more about Revelstoke

• The Best Things to do in Revelstoke, BC – Besides Skiing
• Best British Columbia Road Trip – Vancouver – Kelowna – Revelstoke
• 15 Top Ski Resorts in Canada For Winter Fun

11. Glacier National Park

Yes, Canada has its own Glacier National Park and it is located near Revelstoke National Park. Located just 35 minutes from Revelstoke, you can tick off two Canada National Parks while making a base in Revelstoke. It is a year-round adventure paradise. One thing not to miss in Glacier National Park is to hike the Canadian Pacific Railway Line. The Rogers Pass Discovery Centre is a national historic site that has a replica of a historic railway building with a theatre, and an avalanche exhibit and you’ll also learn about the history and wildlife of the area.

12. Yoho National Park

British Columbia is blessed with parks and wide-open spaces and Yoho National Park is another beautiful place to visit in BC. Located in the Canadian Rockies, it offers exceptional hiking and biking and stunning scenery with crystal clear lakes and snow-capped mountains. Yoho National Park creates a Rocky Mountain triangle with Kootenay National Park to the south and Banff National Park to the East in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Canadian Rocky Mountains Park. Check out: Where to Stay in Banff, The Best Areas

The top sights to see here are the natural bridge, emerald lake, Wapta Falls, and Burgess Shale Fossil Site. As with all of the national parks in Canada, you can go camping in the backcountry (with a permit). Permits and passes can be purchased at Parks Canada. One of the more unique things to do at this Canadian National Park is taking a guided fossil hiking tour to see the fossil remains of an ancient sea. Read: The Rocky Mountaineer Experience – Vancouver to Banff

13. Kootenay National Park

Another place to visit nearby is Kootenay National Park. Joining Yoho National Park with Banff National Park this trio makes up the UNESCO-designated Canadian Rockies. Located in the town of Radium, it is snuggled alongside the Alberta border. It’s known for its abundance of hot springs. (including Radium Hot Springs where you can enjoy the hot pools in luxury) and abundance of wildlife. A highlight of Kootenay National Park is Marble Canyon where you can hike through the narrow gorge.

14. Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park

We can’t leave out British Columbia’s Provincial Parks and this Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park is one of the oldest provincial parks in Canada. Located in Southeastern British Columbia, it houses two glaciers, Kokanee and Woodbury that feed 30 lakes including Kootenay Lake. Located in the Selkirk Mountains of British Columbia, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park is unique in the fact that most of the park sits above  1,800 meters in elevation. Be prepared when visiting this provincial park, with the high elevation, weather conditions can change frequently.

Make a base in the city of Nelson, British Columbia where you’ll be able to view the peaks of the Kokanee glacier from downtown. Located on the shores of Kootenay Lake, Nelson is a historic downtown is filled with restored heritage homes helping to contribute to it being referred to as the Queen City.

15. Fraser Canyon – Hells Gate

When taking the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies from British Columbia to Alberta, our train journey weaved along the Fraser River through Fraser Canyon. This was our first time witnessing Hells Gate in Fraser Canyon. Located in the heart of Gold Rush country, Hell’s Gate can be visited by taking a gondola down into the Fraser Canyon. The rapids of Hell’s Gate are furious with over 200 million gallons of water squeezing through the narrows of Fraser Canyon each minute. There are observation decks, a cafe, a suspension bridge, and a gift shop so it is well worth the visit.

Taking the Rocky Mountaineer was an amazing way to witness the stunning scenery of British Columbia while taking in its natural beauty from the comfort of a train.

Hope was once famous for being the filming location of Sylvester Stallone’s First Blood, but what makes visiting this town in British Columbia worth it is the Hope Tunnels. The Othello Tunnels in hope are one of the top tourist attractions in interior BC. Similar to the Trestles of Kelowna, the tunnels of hope are a series of trestle bridges and tunnels cutting through the mountains. 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.

Tofino has become someone of a magical destination in British Columbia. A surfer’s paradise, UNESCO Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Region is a biodiverse ecosystem with old-growth rainforests and dramatic coastlines. Its coastal beaches attract sun lovers and surfers in the warmer months and storm chasers in the winter.

Located just north of the Pacific Rim National Park Tofino’s sandy beaches stretch to wooden boardwalks and stairs winding through ancient, moss-covered cedar and hemlock trees, making you feel as if you’ve reached the end of the earth. Take a kayaking trip to Clayoquot Sound, learn to surf, or head out to view some of the spectacular wildlife. Take a whale watching tour to see as Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, and Killer Whales, frequent these waters. You’ll see grey wolves, sea otters, black bears, and countless bird species.

18. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Speaking of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this is an adventure lovers’ playground. Located on Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park is home to the 100 sheltered islets of the Broken Group Islands and the famous 75-kilometer multi-day West Coast Trail this is the place to go for outdoor adventures. You can make a base in Tofino or Ucluelet, or you can head into the backcountry for camping, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Read more about adventures in the Pacific Rim at Kayaking to the Broken Group Islands – How to Survive as a Family

19. West Coast Trail

There are few epic trails that can compete with British Columbia’s West Coast Trail. It is Canada’s most iconic hiking trail and is on every hiker’s bucket list. The 75-kilometer (47-mile) backcountry trail is as rigorous as it is beautiful. During this multi-day trek, hikers need to carry everything in and out while climbing more than 100 ladders and navigating through waist-deep flowing rivers. If you want the ultimate hiking bragging rights, book a trip to the West Coast Trail. Reservations are mandatory at Parks Canada. Read more: Best Hikes in Canada to Add To your Bucket List

20. Victoria

The Capital City of British Columbia is located on Vancouver Island and is named after Queen Victoria with tudor-style buildings lining its waterfront. This beautiful city is British Columbia’s provincial capital but has a population of fewer than 100,000 people making it feel like a small town, with all the amenities you’d need. Victoria is one of the prettiest cities in Canada with the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel dominating the picturesque Inner Harbour.

Victoria is the second oldest city in the Pacific Northwest and here you can enjoy afternoon tea and feel like the royalty it was named after for a few hours. There is truly a historic feeling with the parliament buildings, Canada’s oldest China town, and the narrowest street in Canada. Its mild year-round temperatures have made Victoria a popular retirement destination for decades.

21. Vancouver Island

Despite its name, Vancouver Island is two hours away from the city by ferry and is one of the best places to visit in British Columbia. Vancouver Island is filled with gorgeous scenery. The two-hour journey features a ferry ride from the city and ends at the largest island on the Pacific Coast of North America. Must-see spots include Victoria, the Pacific Rim National Park in Tofino (also great for surfing), and the impeccable Butchart Gardens.

Book this  Vancouver to Victoria tour   that includes a ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia and through the Gulf Island to Vancouver Island to explore the beautiful Butchart Gardens followed by a sightseeing tour of downtown Victoria. Butchard Gardens is a 55-acre garden where you’ll be able to peruse its Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and nearly 1000 plan varieties.

22. Barkerville Historic Town

While Dawson City in the Yukon may be the most famous Gold Rush Town in Canada, Barkerville Historic Town is another legendary historic town that you must visit in British Columbia. There are 125 heritage buildings that transport you back to the 1800s. This Canadian National Historic Site is a fun place to visit spread across more than 1000 acres. Actors and street performers dressed in historic costumes walk the streets putting on performances and storytelling presentations. There is accommodation and camping nearby so you can make a weekend out of it!

23. Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands)

Located off the coast of British Columbia, Haida Gwaii was briefly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands. After the 2010 Haida Gwaii Reconciliation Act, they were changed from the colloquial Queen Charlotte Islands to their traditional name for the people who have inhabited these islands for 2000 years.

Haida Gwaii is a system of 150 remote islands in the Pacific Ocean that take you well off the beaten path. Haida Gwaii is a wildlife lover’s dream with an abundance of bald eagles inhabiting the islands. They are often called the Galapagos of the north with unique wildlife species endemic to the islands. From whale watching to indigenous experiences, this is a destination in BC that is not to be missed.

24. Great Bear Rainforest

British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest is a massive chunk of land lining the Pacific Ocean for 400 km up the west coast of BC. This is one of the premier places to go on a grizzly bear safari. The annual salmon run from August to September is the best time to visit the Great Bear Rainforest for grizzly viewing and there are several companies that offer adventures from Bella Bella, Klemtu, and Prince Rupert. There is whale watching in the Great Bear Rainforest as well with Johnstone Strait and the Broughton Archipelago being one of the best places in the world to see orcas. This area has an abundance of wildlife and you’ll also be able to witness bald eagles in their natural habitat.

So there you have it from the Pacific Ocean to the Canadian Rockies, these are some of the best places to visit in British Columbia. BC is a massive province with an area larger than France and Germany combined. It could take a lifetime to see it all, but that is all the more reason to visit British Columbia again and again. Where should we go next?

Read more about British Columbia

• Best Things to do in Kelowna British Columbia
• 14 Best Hikes in Vancouver to Enjoy the Great Outdoors

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:

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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.

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Ultimate B.C. travel guide: Best bucket-list places, Instagram stops, road trips and more

It's summer, school's out and many COVID-19 restrictions have lifted, so it's time to plan a road trip. We've put together some of our best B.C. travel lists to get you started.

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

School’s out and COVID-19 restrictions have been relaxed.

“This will be our summer of hope and healing in this pandemic,” B.C. health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said recently.

Ultimate B.C. travel guide: Best bucket-list places, Instagram stops, road trips and more Back to video

Well, if Dr. Henry is prescribing some hope and healing time for British Columbians after enduring a pandemic for the past 15 months, we are going to follow the doctor’s orders.

So we combed through our archives and packaged some of our favourite B.C. travel lists put together by writer Lynn Mitges, and turned them into one ultimate vacation guide.

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Bucket-place places? Check. Road-trip routes? Check. Hikes and tourist attractions? Check, check. We even list 10 great Instagrammable spots if your feed is in desperate need of photos from outside your health region.

It probably goes without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway: If you’re planning a trip for any of these or other B.C. destinations, call ahead to confirm they are open, check if there are any changes to operating days/times and always abide by all COVID-19 protocols.

B.C. bucket list: 7 places you must see in beautiful B.C.

Here are the Top 7 trips to explore and embrace the beauty of B.C. Some of these destinations can lead to further exploration — and the possibilities are compelling. We don’t kid ourselves: it was difficult to narrow it down to just seven.

1. For culture seekers: Haida Gwaii

The GoHaidaGwaii.ca website invites you to the adventures of this unique archipelago with a gorgeous opening image of Rose Spit, where Hecate Strait meets Dixon Entrance: white, sandy beaches strewn with bleached driftwood.

This area is unique in part because of the theory that these islands were not included in the last Ice Age, which may explain the rare fauna and subspecies found here. So yes, this is unlike anywhere else on Earth. But for more than a century, the rich cultural heritage of the Haida people — who once numbered up to 8,000 — has compelled visitors to see the renowned totem poles on South Moresby Island, or see firsthand where Emily Carr travelled to capture scenes for her watercolour paintings.

2. For thrill seekers: Fraser Canyon

The power of nature is a bit of an understatement when it comes to this “awesome gorge,” as explorer Simon Fraser described a canyon that at some points is barely 35 metres wide. When the Hell’s Gate Airtram was constructed in 1969, rope was shot across the canyon with a crossbow in order to attach the cable from the lower terminal to the upper terminal. Board the tram on the Cascade Mountains and cross to the other side of the canyon at the Coast Pacific mountains. Of note, you can catch the award-winning documentary, Run Sockeye Run, pan for gold or head to nearby river rafting tour operators to continue the adrenalin rush.

3. For beach lovers: Pacific Rim National Park

Whether it’s Long or Chesterman beaches, Pacific Rim Park is the spot for surfing, for beachcombing, or testing your hiking and camping skills on the famous West Coast Trail .

Everyone should visit this magnificent park reserve at least once. Your trip can include paddle boarding, hikes through the rainforest, a canoe trip to neighbouring islands, or a winter storm-watching weekend. This area is all-season but is truly spectacular in the warmer months. Among the options from Tofino or Ucluelet, you can fish, dine at award-winning local restaurants, or book a harbour tour by plane. The difficulty will be narrowing down the options — depending on your length of stay.

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4. For families: Inside Passage

You’ll get spectacular scenery and wildlife sightings — including pods of orcas — on this route that leaves from Port Hardy on the Northern tip of Vancouver Island. You can opt for daytime or overnight ferry schedules for this 15-hour trip that takes you to the province’s Northern coast.

On board the ferry there is a kids zone, dining options and state rooms, but you’ll be largely checking out the scenery as the ferry threads its way through narrow channels on the way to Prince Rupert, which is a lovely port city to explore and can act as base camp for further travels to the Khutzeymateen Provincial Park , whale watching tours or fishing charters. (Note: If you were considering visiting the North Pacific Cannery , a national historic site that tracks this province’s historic fishing industry, it is closed for the 2021 tourist season.)

5. For mountaineers: Kootenay National Park

This park has something for everyone: camping, fishing and biking, plus Radium Hot Springs and ice climbing and ski touring in winter. In summer months, you can explore the Burgess Shale fossils on a guided tour, explore the Paint Pots — pools of ochre beds that were used for centuries by Indigenous people in both ceremony and for trade. Just east of Radium is a spot on the Continental Divide that straddles both B.C. and Alberta. Hiking is rich in sights, such as walls of limestone that rise up from valley floors, forest-fire sites that are now regenerating with endless fields of fireweed, and numerous vantage points to see the turquoise glacial waters that snake through the area.

6. For historians: Barkerville

This incredible historic town is a testament to the prospectors who arrived in the mid-1800s to search for gold on a trail that took them to Barkerville , as it became known — named after a famous prospector named William (Bill) Barker. More than 125 heritage buildings line the streets in this town that was declared a national historic site in 1924.

This is a place in which history is kept alive through storytelling, tours, recreation of court trials — plus a working blacksmith shop. There are a lot of activities to explore and you’ll definitely need several days to take it all in. If you came here as a child, the experience stays with you — a perfect trip for families, or history buffs.

7. For adventurers: Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park

How many places in this province can you go that are this remote? This wilderness area has yet to have its archeological information completed and officials urge that you report a site of interest or artifact to the BC Parks Office (867-634-7043).

This is rugged wilderness that is increasingly attracting both kayakers, rafters and canoeists because of its remote location — and you won’t find this place crawling with tourists looking for the best selfie spot. There is walk-in camping, but no facilities. And that is the beauty of it. All trips on the Alsek and Tatshenshini rivers require a permit. This is where you can hike and avoid the crowds lining up for photos. Mountain biking is permitted but you must stick to routes and, because of this remote location, such routes are not as well maintained. Consider the park site warning that it can snow anytime here, so a trip here must be well planned to account for any variables.

4 of B.C.’s most underrated tourism destinations

B.C.’s Lower Mainland, the Rockies and the Interior get their fare share of tourists, but here are a few delightful places to consider when planning you’re next getaway.

1. Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert is a spectacular city and rich in history as dozens of canneries dotted the Skeena River in the late 1800s and all were serviced by the Grand Trunk Railroad. Mostly abandoned or closed — except for Port Edward’s North Pacific Cannery, which is a national historic site — these canneries were the lifeblood of this city and remnants of them can still be spotted on hikes near the river.

This Northern port city has a something completely different: dwarfed vegetation. Fewer than 10 kilometres from this city is Oliver Lake Dwarf Forest , which features boardwalks and trails that you can walk as you pass numerous seemingly stunted trees and shrubs, courtesy of acidic muskeg soil conditions and climate effects.

Only 25 minutes from Prince Rupert is Cassiar Cannery , which is now privately owned and offers waterfront guest houses for a minimum two-night stay. These homes can be base camp for further exploration of Prince Rupert and its cuisine, including its famous halibut and seafood, its picturesque marinas, boat and fishing charters, and the historic Cow Bay area.

This beautiful city nestled in the Rockies is often overshadowed by the uber popular Revelstoke . But Fernie is developing a name for itself as not only a tourism destination, but a place for stressed larger-city residents to escape to and create a gentler life and career.

Fernie is a jewel with some unique attractions. This city is chock full of heritage buildings, and this is where you can take the interpretive Miner’s Walk , witness some signature chocolate being made with antique machinery, and view the last oil derrick — made of wood — in B.C. Take the chairlift for some spectacular hikes, or test your skill at the aerial park, a challenging series of rope-linked platforms. Celebrity note: renowned adventure author Jon Turk, who completed the historic first circumnavigation of Ellesmere Island by kayak, lives here for part of each year.

Tourism Fernie is one of the most forward-thinking, innovative tourism organizations in the province and it shows: their website is detailed and full of ideas for explorations and unique experiences.

3. Salmon Arm

The vineyards of the Okanagan get their fair share of tourism buzz, but just north of here lies the city of Salmon Arm on the shore of Shuswap Lake. There are more than 400 kilometres of shoreline at this lake, which is warm, beautiful, uncrowded and the perfect place to paddleboard, swim or kayak.

Check out the R.J. Haney Heritage Village , a bucolic community that takes you back in history to the days of slate boards at the schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop and a general merchant store. You can choose from trails to explore the area, guided garden tours and even gold panning. That’s if you can tear yourself away from the beaches.

Check out the Salmon Arm website for details, tour times and information about the Adams River Salmon Society and to help plan your trip.

4. Pemberton

Pemberton is often overshadowed by the resort community of Whistler that lays claim to being the best skiing destination in North America.

Pemberton looks just like a postcard as the iconic Mount Currie rises from the valley floor and frames nearly every vista. This is a sweet spot that’s gaining popularity as a more affordable place to live than Whistler, as well as its lovely village feel.

Mountain biking is off the same class as Whistler’s numerous trails — but with fewer people. Most routes are accessible from the Village of Pemberton, so check Trail Forks for complete maps and information.

Consider a few nights at the award-winning Pemberton Valley Lodge , and you simply must try the famous burger at Mile One Eating House. Pemberton Distillery makes the only organic spirits in the world — vodka, gin, absinthe, schnaps and liqueurs — that are derived from potatoes.

Take time to explore One Mile Lake for a walk, or choose from among 24 biking trails. Just five minutes south of Pemberton is Nairn Falls Provincial Park , a chasm of rushing glacial water that can be viewed from numerous vantage points. There is camping here along the banks of the Green River, and a trail that links to One Mile Lake.

And finally, save some time to visit the organic North Arm Farm , where you can choose from fresh produce and pick your own fruit, or take home some unique creations from the commercial kitchen.

Your correspondent has travelled to all of these destinations and highly recommends them.

Instagrammable places in B.C.: 10 unique locations to take a photo

We’ve seen the crush of visitors at Joffre Lakes north of Pemberton — fuelled in part by people hiking into the area to take selfie photos. But consider these 10 spots that will make you a selfie star. The only trick is to get to most of them, which is why they are the next stars for B.C. travel photos.

1. Mount Edziza Provincial Park

Located in northwestern B.C., this park is both remote and mountainous in the Tahltan First Nations territory. There is no road access into this volcanic park, so you’ll need to fly into the park to the trailhead.

2. Crooked Lake

Near Horsefly, this is an ideal place to camp right on the shore. There are facilities here, but few people.

3. Bella Coola

You can drive here if you turn left at Williams Lake and just keep going until you run out of road. What awaits is spectacular scenery and work-renowned First Nations art.

4. Hudson Bay Mountain

The impressive peak you see above Smithers, it’s a ski resort, plus a hiking paradise in summer.

5. Liard River Hot Springs

Located in B.C.’s Northern Rockies, it’s a popular park with facilities, campsites and water activities.

6. Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park

This Vancouver Island park is home to some unique vegetation and towering spruce trees, some of which are more than 800 years old.

7. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve

It takes effort to get to, but is well worth the trip. Unique flora and fauna, forests dripping with mosses, and rich First Nations culture and art await.

8. What often surprises

Yes, we have wheat, pictured here outside Fort St. John . Spectacular, isn’t it?

9. The Kinsol Trestle

Located in the Cowichan Valley, the trestle can be used by cyclists, hikers and those on horseback.

10.  Atlin Provincial Park

This one is for the experienced and the well-prepared. There are no services and you can only enter the park by boat or by plane. The photo here sums that up perfectly.

3 ultimate road trips to the farthest reaches of British Columbia

If you have more than a week off and want to explore Northern B.C., Vancouver Island, or east to the Rockies, these trips will give you some ideas as to what awaits the ultimate B.C. road trip.

1. North to Alaska (or Yukon, if the U.S. border hasn’t reopened)

The choice is yours: Whether to take Highway 99 through Whistler, Lillooet and then take Highway 97 through Williams Lake and Quesnel, or you can opt for the route on the Coquihalla to Kamloops, and then either take the highway through Williams Lake, or Highway 5 through Blue River and Valemount — both routes skirt around Wells Gray Provincial Park and the Bowron Lake park. If you like to camp, this area is perfect. Bring a kayak, canoe or paddle board and spend some time at Murtle Lake , North America’s largest paddle-only lake. You can camp right on the sandy beach of this lake, or choose one of many wilderness campsites throughout the forested areas and accessible only by water.

Take the time to explore the smaller communities of Williams Lake and Quesnel and choose from river rafting, or canoeing and even gold panning.

Tourism Prince George has a terrific website to help plan your activities, from mountain biking and hiking, to visiting the Ancient Forest Trail , a unique hike that is marked with interpretive signs and leads to a spectacular waterfall. You can stay in Prince George for a few days before heading west on Highway 16 through Smithers — a lovely spot to take some photos — and then head to the historic site of Kitwanga . At the Kitwanga Fort National Historic Site and where you can take a self-guided tour of totem poles in the neighbouring villages.

If you head north, you’ll be heading to the Yukon, but we suggest when you come to Meziadin Junction that you take Highway 37A, which leads you to Stewart. Along the way you can view Bear Glacier , and the Salmon Glacier just north of Stewart . If the U.S. border has reopened, you can cross into Hyder , the most southerly town in the state of Alaska and which is known for its local initiation that involves a shot of grain alcohol for someone to be Hyderized. This former mining town shares some services with Stewart, and Canadian money is accepted here. It’s doubtful a wall would ever be constructed here, and it is a little like stepping back in time because Hyder is removed from the usual U.S. bureaucracies, such as a police force. And the locals — which number fewer than 100 people — like that just fine.

2. Vancouver Island

Consider a trip up the northerly route on Vancouver Island. From Horseshoe Bay, take the ferry to Nanaimo to begin your adventure. Spend a day or two in Nanaimo — particularly the harbour area that is home to some lovely shops, restaurants and pubs, then consider an exploration of Parksville and its magnificent Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park.

From there, head north to Buckley Bay to take a ferry to Denman Island, and then continue on the linking ferry to Hornby Island . Don’t forget to pick up some seafood or famous Fanny Bay oysters at the Seafood Shop, right at the ferry location. Hornby is a jewel of an island with warm, shallow waters at Tribune Bay, mountain biking trails and spectacular hiking at Helliwell Provincial Park . Whether you choose a cabin or a campsite , it’s wise to book ahead on Hornby.

After a Hornby respite, continue on the Vancouver Island route to Courtenay , a sweet community that is home to farms, seafood bistros and restaurants, as well as the Courtenay & District Museum & Paleontology Centre : well worth a visit. Campbell River is farther north on the route, so consider a few days here as well. Perhaps you’d like to try your hand at fishing — something for which this seaside city is world renowned. Or explore the vast beaches, such as Stories Beach, or the hiking trails in Elk Falls Provincial Park . There are some lovely restaurants here, too, including Painter’s Lodge, which is renowned as a fishing lodge.

The final leg of this tour will take you through Port McNeill — home to the world’s largest burl — and perhaps an option to do some paddling at Broughton Archipelago Paddler’s Inn at Sointula. You can book a guided tour, rent a vessel, or charter a boat. And finally, you’ll end up at Port Hardy, the departure point for ferry routes to the Northern coast and Prince Rupert. Port Hardy is the starting point for wildlife tours, whale watching, or to visit the local museum and archives, which features some First Nations artifacts from thousands of years ago. Spend a few days and choose from some lovely lodges or resorts , to guest cabins.

3. To the Kootenays and the Rockies

Here’s a circuit tour that can take you along Highway 3, close to the U.S. border, and as you leave the Coast Mountains of the West Coast, you’ll thread through the upper portion of the Cascades, then the Monashees and Selkirks before travelling along the Purcells to the Rockies.

Plan a trip that allows for some relaxation at the various points of interest along the way: Grand Forks has the oldest CPR station in B.C.; Castlegar has a unique sculpture tour ; and Creston has several up-and-coming wineries.

Take Highway 95 north toward the quaint city of Cranbrook , and travel on through Invermere and Radium Hot Springs . Perhaps stay here to take in the hot springs, or spend a few days in Cranbrook, with the historic Fort Steele Heritage Town, or visit the Cranbrook History Centre, home to the largest collection of trains in North America.

Farther along on the highway is Golden, which has earned its reputation as a gateway to outdoor adventure and has terrific cafes and restaurants. If you are a climber, Golden has some of the best rock climbing and mountaineering. The Golden website has everything from where to stay to what to do — no matter the season — plus a detailed list of places to eat and parks to explore.

If your time permits — and you are so inclined — take a right to visit Lake Louise and Banff and the stunning Banff National Park  just across the border in Alberta. You’ll be right in the heart of the Rockies and just be sure your camera is charged for this spectacular scenery. Backtracking along Highway 1 and heading west will take you through Revelstoke , which seems to be the darling of the media with numerous stories over the past decade. The stories are well deserved: this is the “it” town in B.C. — complete with rising real estate prices to prove it.

From here, you’ll then head south toward Vernon and Kelowna on the final leg of the trip. Take Highway 97C if you prefer to drive toward Hope. Or take the highway south toward Osoyoos and then hook up with Highway 3 to go back to the Lower Mainland: you’ve come full circle.

Of note: Of every place mentioned, there are only two that your correspondent hasn’t visited: Creston and Blue River. But she is working on it.

Five ultimate road trips if you have a week off

Take some time to explore this magnificent province — especially by road. These trips take you through the West Kootenay, the Interior, Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast or along spectacular Highway 99 north through Whistler. These trips are perfect for up to one week off. So book some time — preferably in spring or summer — and get to know B.C.

Your final destination is the quaint city of Nelson on the shores of the west arm of Kootenay Lake and nestled in the Selkirk Mountains. There are some lovely stops along the way, such as the village of Keremeos , which in summer is a great place to pick up local fruit and vegetables and admire the views of the North Cascade mountains that jut from the valley floor. Explore Cathedral Provincial Park , be sure to take a photo of Keremeos’s iconic Red Bridge , and visit the Grist Mill and Gardens , which is a provincial heritage site and one of only a few covered bridges left in B.C. Be sure to leave time for a swim at Christina Lake .

Once in Nelson, explore Baker Street and its shops and restaurants before heading to the beach at Lakeside Park, which is close to the city along the shore before you reach the landmark orange bridge. Head up the highway to Ainsworth Hot Springs , particularly if you bring the kids. This gorgeous place has a horseshoe-shaped hot spring cave you walk through — or just take some time in the heated pool while looking across the lake at the Purcell Mountain range. Just a few kilometres north of Ainsworth is Cody Caves Provincial Park , accessible from Highway 31 via a forest road.

Accommodation in Nelson ranges from local hotels and B & Bs to inns with lake views — starting at about $89 per night.

2. Interior

You can make a terrific road trip with several options when heading to the Okanagan. If you take Highway 1 through the Fraser Canyon, check out Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. This is nature at its finest: raw, powerful and intimidating. This route takes you through Lytton, where the blue Thompson River meets the silty Fraser River, which is quite the sight as these two bodies of water merge. From here you can head along Highway 1 to Ashcroft  and stop for lunch, then loop around to Kamloops.

Tourism Kamloops has options for day trips if Kamloops is your base, with the trip mileage log and duration times to complete. The trips range from a Peaks and Valleys option, to that of a Pan for Gold or Hotsprings Trail.

Continue the loop east through Chase, and then make a stop in Canoe, a delightful community on the shore of Shuswap Lake, which is perfect for a dip. Head south through the Okanagan to Vernon and Kelowna and check out the winery tours . You can choose from cabins or upscale hotels — some of which offer wine-tour deals.

Play all you want in the lake, or rent bikes to tour the area. From there, you can head back through Princeton and Manning Park. Take some time to view the famous Hope Slide before heading back through this quaint community with the optimistic name .

3. Vancouver Island

Victoria is such lovely city to explore. Have you taken tea at the Fairmont Empress? Or dined at the Herald Street Cafe, where you will probably spy a few upscale bureaucrats? Or visited Butchart Gardens ?

If not, you can plan some terrific day trips that satisfy your inner esthete. The Royal B.C. Museum will satiate your curiosity for history, art and exhibits in a picture-perfect setting in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Take a few days to stroll downtown and explore myriad shops and cafes. This trip can be a wonderful respite from the rigours of your day job. Head to Sooke — preferably in summer — where you can spend days exploring beaches by foot or by bike. China Beach  is ideal for a day trip, or bring the camping gear and hang out for a few days. Be sure to undertake at least part of the Galloping Goose Trail that winds its way through Metchosin and Sooke with a few parks and waterways along the route.

4. Sunshine Coast

This is a fun trip that takes you from Hopkins Landing, where the ferry berths, onward through Gibsons, Roberts Creek, Sechelt and up toward Earls Cove. The scenery is incredible and the route is peppered with unique restaurants, cafes and trails from which to explore the area.

Sunshine Coast Tourism has numerous suggestions for trips and circuits, including an Ale Trail route, a pottery studio tour and a coastal circle tour , which is a five-day itinerary that takes you through villages, to local beaches and to Vancouver Island by way of four ferries. This is a brilliant trip that introduces you to Gibsons Landing, several key points of interest such as Pender Harbour, as well as Lund and Desolation Sound.

Consider a stay at the gorgeous West Coast Wilderness Lodge, or choose from cottages, B & Bs or inns.

By way of connecting ferries, you can travel as far as possible by road to Lund , which touts itself as the shellfish capital of Canada with its annual festival in May — and is the gateway to Desolation Sound Provincial Park. In our pursuit for unique travel, this route can also include a ferry trip to Savary Island, a perennial favourite for Lower Mainlanders in summer.

5. Highway 99 circuit

Here’s a road trip that has something for everyone. Head to Squamish and take a tour of the Ski to Sky Gondola and take some time to explore this Howe Sound city.

Its burgeoning restaurant scene is worth scoping out, such as the Watershed Bar and Grill, or Salted Vine restaurant. From here, head up the highway to Whistler and do the Peak to Peak Gondola ride , which gives you a panoramic view of the mountains.

You can stay inWhistler, where you can book off-season deals . Travel farther to Pemberton, perhaps for lunch one day at Mile One Eating House. Continue through the Duffey Lake route — which is advised in spring and summer, not the dead of winter. Lillooet is what was formerly known as Mile 0 on the Gold Rush Trail. Of note, there’s a golf course on a sheep farm, as well as Miyazaki Heritage House and the famous Bridge of 23 Camels.

From here, you can head south on Highway 12 through Lytton, and then through the Fraser Canyon. Take a different route from Hope that winds through Agassiz and Harrison Mills and the Kilby Historic Site before arriving back in the Lower Mainland.

5 great Metro Vancouver hikes

Plan an outing with the family or a hiking partner for any one of these routes, which we’ve organized according to your ability or need. And take note that some of these hikes carry a caution about bears.

1. For epic vistas: Lighthouse Park, West Vancouver

This favourite park is typical West Coast splendour, with its ocean views, moss-laden forest and rocky foreshores. Trails snake through the 75-hectare national historic site , which is one of the most photographed places in B.C. The park is a secluded refuge that acts as a balm to the stressors of life.

Numerous routes are on offer, with exquisite names such as Songbird Meadow and Shore Pine Trail. Follow the routes to the lighthouse viewpoint for the perfect photo backdrop. The working lighthouse has been around since the 1870s.

2. For the naturalist: Reifel Bird Sanctuary

The ever-popular Reifel Bird Sanctuary on Westham Island should be on everyone’s list, if only for the trek through marshlands and ponds, on pathways that snake through the territory of more than 350 species of birds. It is ranked as one of the Top-10 birdwatching sites in Canada. And it’s in our backyard.

You could spend hours wending your way through the trails here, so give yourself a lot of time. You need to reserve a spot so that the number of hikers can be managed for appropriate physical distancing. The Reifel website has a reservation site in place . You can reserve three days in advance, but note the sanctuary is closed on Mondays.

3. For the meanderer: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, North Vancouver

One of the Lower Mainland’s most spectacular parks, Lynn Headwaters treks can be as leisurely or as long as you want, with options from a shorter creekside Cedars Mill and Lynn Loops trails , to the intermediate Headwaters Trail. You can bring your dog and there are leash-optional areas on the west side of the creek. No matter the route, the entire park is bathed in the sound of the rushing creek, and there are numerous areas to stop for lunch, or stop creekside to just soak up the scenery. And cap off your accomplishment with a treat from the End of the Line General Store .

A young girl was bitten by a bear in the park last summer , so be mindful that you are in an area with bears and carry bear spray. And take that half-eaten sandwich with you when you leave. Just saying.

4. For the family: Kanaka Creek Regional Park, Maple Ridge

A geological treat awaits as you introduce your kids to sandstone cliffs, then shepherd them to the ecology of the Bell-Irving fish hatchery and they learn the meaning of stewardship. Start at the parking lot and take the Canyon Trail toward the fish hatchery , then make your way back with a detour on the Pine Ridge Trail to complete the loop. If you take the Nature Trail along the Fraser River, note that the west side route has been changed to a one-way directional path due to physical distancing.

5. For the strenuous: St. Mark’s Summit, West Vancouver

Do not go gently into this hike. This route will take most of the day, require a level of fitness above that of a couch potato, and reward with stunning photo ops. If there has been a series of days without rain, this is where you’ll want to test your hiking mettle. And you’ll have to do this trail before any snow accumulates — late September and early October offer a window in which to cross this off your list.

The summit is on the Howe Sound Crest Trail, a 30-kilometre route that takes you from Cypress Mountain to Porteau Cove. That is for another day, but St. Mark’s Summit is doable in about four hours — more or less depending on your speed, and starts at the Cypress Mountain downhill parking lot . Be sure to bring enough water for this hike. There are no facilities on the trail, only those at Cypress Mountain.

4 trips to get you out of your comfort zone

We are creatures of habit, particularly when it comes to vacations. Sure, routine is good, but spending the same week each year on a beach, or visiting family, or hunkering down at a favourite campground are so last year. Why not try something that introduces you to a whole new adventure, whether it’s a canoe trip,   a stay at a dude ranch or a fishing trip that will test your reach (and perhaps your patience!); and whitewater rafting that will give you just enough of an adrenalin rush, but leave you grinning for days.

These four vacation ideas can be for the family, or a couple — or a few friends. Get to know this province: the Interior is home to numerous ranches; the Bowron Lakes canoe circuit tests your water skills and camping perceptions; Ucluelet and Campbell River have just been voted as two of the top seven Canadian fishing destinations by FishingBooker.com ; and whitewater rafting is something that everyone should do at least one in their lives. We say bring it on.

1. Hop on, dude

They used to be called dude ranches, but now they are known as working ranches — some even with spas. BCAdventure.com has a list of them all so you can browse what you’re looking for specifically.

We checked out the Echo Valley Ranch and Spa because inside your correspondent lurks a princess who likes to have the option for massages and facials.

Echo Valley is routinely ranked among the Top 25 Canadian Boutique Hotels and the season typically runs from April through October and is suited to adults and children in July and August; in other months children must be 13 and over.

There’s yoga, communal meals that spark conversation and tall tales of riding, a swimming pool and all the fresh air you can handle. That’s the easy part. Riding a horse is not like riding a bike, but you will be guided on your ride with capable staff.

2. Canoe trip

If you’re comfortable with canoeing or kayaking, it’s time to bump it up a notch with a renowned wilderness trip at Bowron Lake Provincial Park . You can choose from either a longer trip tat will take anywhere from six to 10 days, or the west-side circuit that can be completed in two to four days.

You need to reserve your spot for the circuit in the season that is open from May 15 to Sept. 30. Canoe rentals are available if you don’t have your own,   and there are several options. The park website has all the information you need, from what to pack and tips about bear safety, to camping and canoeing information. There are several resources that can inform you about items and routines you may not even consider, such as using canoe carts, whether you can use soap to bathe, and how to pack your vessel. An increase in the number of users with sea kayaks has been noted, and you can find out the specifics and recommendations about this as well.

3. Fishing trip

Take it from someone who never thought she’d get into fishing, this type of trip can get you out of your routine. If you’ve ever tried to haul up a halibut — which is kind of like trying to use your line to lift the hood of a car from the ocean — you’ll know of the adrenalin rush. It’s something that everyone should try at least once.

There’s no shortage of places test your talents, but the latest ranking of Ucluelet and Campbell River among the top seven spots in Canada by FishingBooker.com may entice you. In Ucluelet, the Chinook salmon are big — weighing over 30 pounds or more. The baitfish that spawn in the area draw fish to what is locally referred to as the salmon highway. There are numerous bays and more shallow waters that are home to halibut, ling cod and red snapper. Check out ucluelet.ca for info and to book charters with the local companies. Campbell River, long a sport-fishing destination, is known as the salmon capital of the world. Here, too those big Chinook are known as Tyee, the Nuu-chah-nulth word meaning the chief.” Since 1924, the Tyee Club of B.C. has run a competition for anglers who, if they catch a big Chinook of 30 pounds or more, are awarded membership in the club. Find out more and register at tyeeclub.org.

Campbell River Travel describes this unique local fishing beautifully on its website: “Tyee fishing here is different. Anglers fish quietly in small, classic row boats. No motors are allowed in the Tyee pool … The angler must stay focused on the action of the lure as it is felt in the hand as much as being seen by the beating of the rod tip. With the slightest change in the beat, the hook must be set, fast and hard.”

4. River rafting

Hold on for the ride of your life: over rafting is an incredible adventure that will leave you wanting more, when you stop grinning from the thrill of it. HelloBC has an entire list of B.C. river rafting companies — everywhere from Squamish to the Interior, the Kootenays, the north and on the Tatshenshini River.

Your correspondent had a memorable and knuckle-whitening trip at Kumsheen Rafting on the Thompson River in Lytton a few years back. The Fandrich family runs this sweet resort — complete with fine dining and a swimming pool and teepees in which to stay. Proprietor Bernie Fandrich is a pioneer of whitewater rafting in B.C. and this operation is a jewel. River rafting is the cool activity for grads, families, adventure seekers and anyone who wants to break out of their comfort zone that involves too much Netflix and an unfulfilled longing for the great outdoors.

Just do it, we say.

5 must-see attractions for tourists in Vancouver

Whether you’re planning a vacation to Vancouver or you’re a resident looking for ideas on where to take out-of-town guests, the city is filled with attractions that show off its beauty and culture. Here are five itineraries that give visitors a real feel for Vancouver. And, of course, you can riff endlessly on activities or places to eat to suit individual preferences.

1. Stanley Park and the Vancouver Aquarium

Whether you walk the seawall or rent bikes, this massive park introduces guests to the vastness of this exceptional green space, its ecodiversity and wildlife within the city. You can do this rain or shine. Start at the Georgia Street entrance and head past the Vancouver Rowing Club, then visit the Vancouver Aquarium , one of the largest aquariums in North America and which is known for its research, conservation and rehabilitation efforts. Be sure to do the Lost Lagoon trail, and either tour the entire 9-km route around the park, or just part of it. Though the Aquarium is currently closed, its website says they will be announcing a reopening date soon.

Dining options: One of the most stunning vistas is from the Teahouse Restaurant in Stanley Park, located just past Third Beach. This is a lovely place for lunch, dinner, or a cocktail. Or try the fish and chips at the concession at Second Beach.

Did you know? The Vancouver Aquarium’s coelacanth — a prehistoric looking fish that was only discovered in 1938 — lived about 400 million years ago and is one of the few species of the Devonian period that are still around today.

2. Granville Island and Yaletown

Visitors love Granville Island because of its diversity of businesses, artisans and working shops, but also because of the feeling that you’re in a cool little neighbourhood. The public market never ceases to impress with its selection of fresh foods and ingredients. From here, take the ferry over to the Yaletown Roundhouse stop and explore the numerous unique shops and restaurants on Mainland and Hamilton streets.

Dining options: On a sunny day, Bridges on Granville Island is like a little slice of heaven — and they serve one of the best burgers in the city. Or purchase a baguette and some meats and cheeses from the market for your own charcuterie to enjoy while sitting on the wooden benches that overlook the marina. If you’re in Yaletown, try a local favourite, the Blue Water Café.

Did you know? Granville Island attracts more than 10 million visitors each year.

3. Museum of Anthropology and Kitsilano

This will be a day for the senses: you should allow several hours to explore the stunning Museum of Anthropology at UBC and its 45,000 objects from around the globe, in addition to First Nations artifacts and works. Then head to Kits Beach for a walk amid the salty freshness of the air (or a swim if it’s warm enough) before proceeding to 4 th Avenue in Kitsilano.

Dining options: There are two restaurants with absolute energy that you can feel when you walk through the door: Bishop’s on 4 th Avenue , and Vij’s on Cambie Street (not in Kitsilano, but nearby). And the food is exceptional: your guests will not be disappointed.

Did you know? Bard on the Beach attendance was about 6,000 in its first year in 1990, and was more than 100,000 in 2018. Its 2021 season will be virtual due to COVID-19.

4. Vancouver Art Gallery, Robson Street and English Bay

Again, we never know how the weather will turn out, so this is an option for a drizzly day. Start at the Vancouver Art Gallery (VAG) for the French Moderns exhibit until May 20. Let’s hope your guests are here between April 19 and Sept. 2 for the upcoming Moving Still: Performative Photography in India . Senses satiated, head to Robson Street for a tour of some unique stores, then make your way to Denman Street and English Bay.

Dining options: Joe Fortes never disappoints and its service is excellent. If you’re a fan of oysters, this is the place. Alternatively, you can scope out noddle houses, cafes or ish and chip places on Denman Street.

Did you know? One of Joe Fortes’ longtime staff members, known as Oyster Bob, routinely won the top spot in oyster shucking contests.

5. Deep Cove

Rent kayaks or SUPs online a few days ahead and plan to show up by 8 a.m. for a day on the water. In nice weather, Deep Cove can get very busy, so it’s best to get here early. This trip can take you out of the cove, along the shore and past Quarry Rock heading north, or toward Grey Rocks Island if you’re heading south. You can do a few hours, or the entire day in this idyllic pursuit. Consider a walk through Lynn Canyon or, if it’s a sunny day, visitors love Grouse Mountain, too.

Dining options:

Arm’s Reach Bistro , hands down, is a favourite for its food and atmosphere. Or try Deep Cove Pizza .

Did you know? Kate Winslet two years ago gave a shoutout on social media to Honey’s Doughnuts after she’d tasted these blessed little orbs while filming here.

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

48 of the Best THINGS TO DO in British Columbia

June 1, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 99 Comments

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Updated: January 31st, 202 2

There are so many incredible things to do in British Columbia. From lush rainforest to high mountain peaks and the Pacific Ocean, British Columbia is an incredible province to explore. Living next door in Alberta , we’ve been to BC many times and have experienced it from north to south and from east to west.

Although British Columbia is home to the mildest climate in Canada, it’s also about as diverse as it gets. From being able to go surfing and skiing (possibly during the same day) to being able to hike some of Canada’s tallest mountains or exploring one of North America’s most dense cities, BC is a treasure trove for tourists and locals alike.

Whether you’re planning to explore the cities, the mountains, the ocean or everything in-between, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide to the wonderful province of British Columbia.

Table of Contents

Things To Do in British Columbia

Whether you love cities or the great outdoors, there is so much to do and see in British Columbia. From hiking in the rainforest to visiting wineries to walking around the streets in one of the most densely populated cities in North America, BC is truly one of Canada’s great treasures.

We’ve been to British Columbia many, many times. Living in Calgary, BC is our next-door neighbour, and considering it’s the #1 tourist destination in Canada, there are lots of fun things to do. From swimming in wild hot springs in the North to getting splashed by humpback whales in the South, this travel guide will help you plan your next trip to Canada’s wild west coast.

What To Do In Vancouver

Vancouver is a world-famous city and for good reason: It’s beautifully situated right between mountains and oceans while enjoying some of Canada’s mildest weather. It’s also one of the most densely populated cities in North America, which brings thousands of incredible restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a vibrant life that can’t be found in many cities. However, it’s also surrounded by nature, creating a nice balance between the concrete jungle and the real outdoors.

Explore Stanley Park

No matter how many times we visit Vancouver, we always visit Stanley Park. It’s Vancouver’s first urban park and remains the largest with over 400-hectares of natural West Coast rainforest. It’s filled with beautiful beaches, local wildlife, historical landmarks, and the Vancouver Aquarium, which we’ll talk about below.

Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

While visiting Stanley Park, you may want to check out the Vancouver Aquarium as well. This is Canada’s largest aquarium with more than 70,000 beautiful creatures, including dolphins, anacondas, sea otters, sloths, and more. The Vancouver Aquarium is also well respected for its research and marine stewardship and is a great place to learn about the region’s marine life.

Grab a Bite to Eat on Granville Island

Located in the heart of the city, this little peninsula has become a popular hub for food and drink. Granville Island has a wonderful food market, a famous brewery, and a variety of cool shops. In the summer, it’s also alive with boat taxis, paddle-boarders, and kayakers.

Grouse Mountain

As Vancouver’s top outdoor attraction, Grouse Mountain is a great place to go for gruelling mountain hikes or, for those less inclined to work out, an easy gondola ride to get jaw-dropping views of the city and the surrounding mountains. In the winter, it’s also popular for skiing and snowboarding.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park 

Capilano Suspension Bridge sits 140 metres over a river, crossing towering evergreens and a cedar-scented rainforest. It’s also home to the Treetops Adventure, seven suspended footbridges offering views 110 feet above the forest floor, and a new Cliffwalk attraction. It’s one of the top attractions in Vancouver, attracting close to one million visitors every year. If crowds aren’t your thing, another option is the free but smaller Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge .

Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours 

If you’re looking to learn about Vancouver’s past in a fun and entertaining way, we highly recommend a walking tour with Forbidden Vancouver. We learned so much about Vancouver’s “dark history” and our views of Vancouver will never be the same.

Museum of Anthropology

This research and teaching museum, located at UBC, is renowned for its displays of world arts and culture. Most notably, they have an excellent permanent exhibition on the First Nations of the Pacific Northwest. With over 535,000 archaeological objects, this place can easily fill a day.

Vancouver Whale Watching

British Columbia is a fantastic province to experience whale watching and you don’t even have to go far from the major city.  Vancouver whale watching takes place just 20-minutes away in the historic fishing village of Steveston. We’ve had spectacular whale watching experiences around Vancouver and also out in Port Renfrew on Vancouver Island. While nature can be unpredictable, your chances of seeing them are very high.

Looking for more info? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Vancouver . 

What To Do in Victoria and Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is an adventurer’s paradise. It’s truly incredible how many things you can do on one island. From whale watching to hiking the rainforest to surfing, this is one of the best spots in all of Canada.

Visit the Butchart Gardens

Visited by more than one million people each year, the Butchard Gardens has become an icon of Victoria, as well as a National Historic Site of Canada. This breathtaking 55-acre garden is home to 900 plant varieties, 26 greenhouses, and 50 full-time gardeners! Whether you’re travelling solo, with your family, or on a romantic date with your partner, the Butchard Gardens is a must-do when visiting Victoria. It’s just a stunning place to walk around.

Explore the Royal BC Museum

Founded in 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is a great place to learn about BC’s natural and human history. There are three permanent galleries inside, including Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First Peoples Gallery. The natural history collection alone has more than 750,000 records of specimens that are almost exclusively from the province. You can also watch educational films and commercial films at the IMAX Victoria theatre and it’s conveniently located within walking distance from the inner harbour.

Take a Victoria Food Tour

If you’re looking for a combination of food and history while walking around the beautiful city of Victoria, we highly recommend taking a Taste of Victoria Food Tour . While the food was delicious, we equally loved learning about the history of Canada’s oldest Chinatown as well as the many buildings while strolling around with our friendly guide.

Craigdarroch Castle 

Craigdarroch Castle is a definitively Victorian experience. It is a shining example of a “bonanza castle” — massive houses built for entrepreneurs who became wealthy during the industrial age. This legendary Victorian mansion has four floors of exquisitely stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

This not-so-hidden treasure is a great place to eat food, shop at unique stores, and go on eco-tours. This place was busy with people eating fresh seafood when we visited, but our favourite part was touring the floating homes and just imagining what it would be like to live in his spectacular location.

For more things to do, check out our travel guide to the best things to do in Victoria BC !

Wild Renfrew

Within easy reach of Victoria, Port Renfrew is welcoming, affordable, and incredibly wild. Here, you can go hiking on some of Canada’s most famous hikes, visit numerous beaches, go whale-watching, and so much more. Best of all, it’s home to the Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages, which are rustically beautiful and open up to amazing views of the rugged coastline. There’s nothing quite like waking up, walking into the living room, and looking out at the sea.

Orca Spirit Adventures

Known worldwide for its whale watching and marine wildlife viewing opportunities, the small village of Port Renfrew is perfectly placed for eco-tourism, at the junction of the famous West Coast and Juan de Fuca Trails. While wildlife is never guaranteed, we had the best whale-watching tour of our lives here. We saw dozens of Orcas and dozens of humpbacks, all in the span of a couple of hours. In fact, the humpbacks came so close to the boat that we even got sprayed by their blowhole! This company also operated out of Victoria, BC, but there are many other whale watching tours as well.

Glamping at Brown’s Bay Resort

Outdoor enthusiasts can try a new way of camping! There are two different types of glamping tents available for individuals looking to relax in the campground. We stayed in a deluxe, luxury oceanfront tent, which was fully equipped with everything we needed. Our bathroom made us feel like we were in a 4-star hotel. Their cliffside tents, on the other hand, are for individuals looking for a more rustic camping experience. These tents only come with power but have easy access to a nearby-shared bathroom and shower building.  There’s a variety of options for waking up to Seaview vistas and you’re only 20-minutes from Campbell River!

Eagle Eye Adventures Grizzly Bear Tour

With a 99.9% success rate, it’s safe to say you’ll see some wildlife with Eagle Eye Adventures. Not only did we see humpback whales and orcas but we also joined them for a day of grizzly bear watching! It was such an incredible experience to see grizzly bears up close, eating salmon in the streams. They even have hydrophones so you can listen to the whales communicating under the water. Whether we were eyeing bears, whales, or eagles, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Snorkelling with Salmon 

Totally unique to the Campbell River area is the chance to go snorkelling with salmon! You can do this in a nearby canyon, swimming above tens of thousands of them or you can be more adventurous and go for a fun float down the Campbell River, flowing up and over rocks and by hundreds of big salmon. A very cool experience, which can be done by tour or by renting your own gear and going alone. We decided to rent our own gear from Beaver Aquatics, which was much cheaper to do. However, if you don’t have a car, this may not be an option.

Elk Falls Provincial Park

If you’re around the town of Campbell River, we highly recommend a trip to Elk Falls Provincial Park, even if just for a short hike into the impressive 25-metre (89-foot) waterfall. However, there’s also camping, salmon fishing, and a variety of hiking trails. In addition to the powerful waterfall, there’s also a suspension bridge surrounded by an old-growth forest, perfect for both the young and old. The hike to the falls is only about 30 minutes or less.

Go Surfing in Tofino

Whether you’re someone just wanting to try surfing for the first time or a pro looking to catch the next big break, Tofino is a surfing paradise. There are a variety of places to go and a variety of surfing schools to choose from. You can also just rent a board and go by yourself. During our visit, we partnered with the Surf Club at Long Beach Lodge Resort. With beautiful Cox Bay Beach right on their doorstep, this is an amazing place to learn surfing. We’ve participated in many surf lessons and this was by far the best. Plus, there is a free hot tub to use afterward.

Tofino is an incredible place so make sure you check out our full guide to the best things to do in Tofino !

Wildplay Nanaimo 

If you’re looking for a thrill, go to Wildplay Nanaimo. Not only is there a 150-foot bungy jump, but there are also zip lines, adventure courses, and a 140 km/h primal swing! This is the ultimate place to test your fears. I was so thrilled to find a bungy jump in Canada that’s done by the ankles. Despite it being my sixth time jumping off a bridge, it was no less scary. It’s the real deal and so much fun! Great for kids and adults!

Scuba Diving

Not a lot of people think of Canada when it comes to scuba diving, but Vancouver Island is actually known as one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. Of course, it’s a different scuba diving experience compared to the tropical areas it’s usually known for. The water is cold for starters, and the sea life is quite different. However, we did our diving just off Nanaimo, diving down to 60 feet while looking at colourful fauna, a variety of fish, wolf eels, and a swimming scallop! We also went snorkelling with seals, which was an equally special experience.

Stand Amongst Giants at Cathedral Grove

Another very special part about visiting Vancouver Island is the chance to stand among massive 800-year-old Douglas Fir trees, some of the largest in the world, in MacMillan Provincial Park. This 301-hectare park, located just 16 km east of Port Alberni, is famous for Cathedral Grove, where you’ll find trees that measure up to 250 feet tall (75 metres) and up to 29 feet (9 metres) in circumference.

What to Do in Kelowna

Kelowna is the heart of the Okanagan Valley and one of the warmest regions in Canada. This is where you’ll find one of Canada’s most famous wine regions as well as massive Okanagan Lake, a 135-km lake stretching all the way from Penticton to Vernon!

Go on a Kelowna Winery Tour

Whether you sign up for an actual tour or just go on your own self-guided wine adventure, Kelowna is a great place for trying a variety of delicious Canadian wines. In fact, the Okanagan Valley is one of the top three wine regions in Canada and a trip here would not be complete without enjoying some grape alcohol. There are dozens of wineries scattered in and around Kelowna as well as many more in Lake Country and Vernon. We only visited one winery during our stay and it was the famous Summerhill Pyramid Winery, which creates organic biodynamic wines. They gave us the complete tour of how they grow the grapes right up until they age them in an actual on-site pyramid, which they believe gives a unique energy to the wine!

Take a Helicopter Tour

We love getting high in the sky for aerial views of the places we’re visiting and Kelowna is a great place to get up in a helicopter. We went with Valhalla Helicopters as they brought us over vineyard, the city, Okanagan Lake, and the nearby canyon! Helicopter tours are a great way to get a different perspective of an area and something we highly recommend doing in Kelowna!

Go Boating on Okanagan Lake

With such a big lake surrounding the area, it makes sense to get out on the lake and take a boat tour. You can tour the city from the water, cruise to other areas, sit back and drink wine, or jump off the boat and into the lake. You can take a big boat, a little boat, or perhaps something like a kayak or a paddleboard. Whatever it is, get out on the water to really see what this area is all about. We went with Kelowna Water Taxi & Cruises, a friendly one-man operation that is just as entertaining as the location itself.

Okanagan Flyboard

If you’re looking for another unique opportunity to get on the water, then flyboarding is the answer. If the thought of hovering over the water on a board propelled by water pressure sounds exciting to you, give this a try. You’ll feel like a superhero once you get the hang of it!

Go Outdoors on the Kettle Valley Railway

We only saw this place by helicopter but it looked like an epic place to go for a bike ride or a long hike. With incredible scenery and views, the  Myra Canyon trestles  are a great place to get outdoors near the city. It’s about a 30-40 minute drive from downtown Kelowna and is part of the Kettle Valey Railway, which happens to be the longest rail-trail network in BC, stretching all the way to Hope!

Go Skiing at Big White Ski Resort

If you happen to be visiting Kelowna in the winter months, then why not going skiing or snowboarding at Big White Mountain Resort. This is one of the most popular ski resorts in the province and also the third largest. Its mountain summit is 2,319 metres with a vertical drop of 777 metres. Home to more than 2,700 acres of skiable terrain and 16 lifts, it’s an awesome way to enjoy the mountains just a short drive from the city of Kelowna.

Looking for more info? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Kelowna !

What to Do in BC’s Rocky Mountain Region

Reflect at emerald lake.

Not far from the border of Alberta and the famous town of Banff is BC’s Yoho National Park. From waterfalls to lakes to epic hiking and camping, Yoho national park is one of the best in Canada. We didn’t have time to fully enjoy the park but we did take the time to at least visit beautiful Emerald Lake, where we got to see one of the most beautiful mountain reflections we’ve ever seen. Whether you stop for a couple of hours or a couple of days, Yoho national park is a real gem.

Pipe Mountain Coaster

Located in Revelstoke, this single-person coaster takes you for an exhilarating ride down the mountain! We’ve been wanting to do this for years and finally had the chance. You’ll travel up to 42 km/h over 1.4km of twists and turns while enjoying a 279m vertical drop.

White Water Rafting

Some of the best white water rating opportunities in the country are on the Kicking Horse River around the town of Golden BC . From mountain views to white water thrills, this is one of the best summer activities in the area. We LOVE white water rafting on the Kicking Horse. Whether you’re looking for exciting class 4 rapids or something less extreme, you’ll find it here. Our recommendation, however, is to go all out on the upper and lower Kicking Horse River adventure.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Another incredible mountain paradise just minutes from Golden is Kicking Horse Mountain Resort . In the winter, this place offers some of the best skiing in British Columbia whereas in the summer it’s home to epic mountain biking, hiking, and the Via Ferrata experience! It’s also home to Boo the Grizzly Bear. For outdoor adventure, this is a great place to stop!

Radium Hot Springs

Located south of the Trans-Canada Highway on beautiful Kootenay Highway, this is one of the most beautiful hot springs in the country. Located right next to a towering cliff, our favourite time to visit is in the winter when the hot springs are surrounded by icicles and sparkling snow, but it’s great any time of year.

Panorama Mountain Resort

In the summer, this place is great for biking and hiking, but in the winter, Panorama Mountain Resort is one of our favourite places to go skiing. Not only does it have really great ski runs, but it’s also home to an awesome ski-in-ski-out village with restaurants, bars, and their own big hot pools.

What To Do In Northern British Columbia

Since we were coming from the Yukon, we had to drive all the way from Northern BC to Vancouver. Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time to explore but we did stay two nights at Liard Hot Springs and a night in Prince George. One thing is for certain though! We will be back to see what Northern BC has to offer!

Liard Hot Springs

The second-largest known hot springs in Canada are quite incredible. We stayed in the nearby campground for two nights, allowing us to go early in the morning and late at night. The water can be incredibly hot in one corner and quite cool at the opposite end, which is really nice when you need a break. There are also areas that feel like a steamy jungle, which adds to the ambiance. These are a must-do if you’re on the Alaskan highway.

For more places to take a dip, check out our feature guide to the best hot springs in bc .

Muncho Lake Provincial Park

For those who love the outdoors, you don’t want to miss spending some time in Muncho Lake Provincial Park. This secluded 88,420-hectare park is a haven for horseback riding, fishing, rafting, scuba diving, and more. Surrounded by towering limestone mountains, the place is beautiful and unique. This is also a great place for camping.

Dawson Creek

For those beginning the Alaska Highway from the start, you’ll reach a town called Dawson Creek, which is rich in both World War II and pioneer history. To make the most of it, you can take a self0guided walking tour, picking up a map from the Visitor Centre, and spending a good hour or more exploring the downtown, including beautiful wall murals, the Alaska Highway House, the Train Station Museum, and more.

Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark

As the second Global Geopark in North America, Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark is rich in geological heritage. You’ll find an array of hiking trails leading to 21 different destinations and 41 different geosites, including waterfalls, canyons, lakes, meadows, and mountain vistas. There’s also a Dinosaur Discovery Gallery where you can see fossils found in the area.

Fort Saint James National Historic Site

Located just off Highway 16, in the area of Vanderhoof, you’ll find some of the most incredible heritage sites in the country. This seasonal site features the largest collection of original fur trade era wooden buildings and even offers the opportunity to spend the night in the 1896 luxurious Murray House or in one of the tents at the fort, a great experience for the whole family.

‘Ksan Museum and Historical Village

Located along the Skeena River in Haselton is the replicated indigenous village of Ksan. Used for centuries by the local Gitxsan’s tribe, this site is now home to a wonderful museum featuring close to 600 pieces of historical artifacts, totem poles, a carving area, traditional songs and dancing, and an incredible glimpse into what life was like in a traditional village. You can also take a guided tour or spend the night in the campground.

Gitanyow Totem Poles

Home to British Colombia’s largest collection of totem poles, some of which are the oldest known, the town of Gitanyow is well worth the visit. This town was made famous by Emily Carr, who painted many of these totem poles back in 1928. Each cedar pole tells a story, the history, and gives a glimpse into the spirituality of the people who carved them. To get here, find Dease Lake Highway, a short detour from Highway 37.

Meziadan Fish Ladder

For a province famous for its salmon, it makes sense to see them up close and personal via a fish ladder. At the Mediadan Fish Ladder, you’ll find sockeye and chinook salmon as they migrate back to the lake. This 670-foot-long ladder bridges both the upper and lower Victoria Falls, providing a public viewing to see these amazing creatures up close. You may even see bears, wolves, and eagles looking for a bite to eat.

Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park

Spatsizi, which means “red goat” in the native Tahltan First Nation language, is one of Canada’s largest parks and is an important habitat for the beautiful Woodland Caribou. Uniquely home to both the Spatsizi Plateau and the Skeena Mountains, this is an excellent place to see wildlife, as well as go canoeing, fishing, and hiking. Popular sightings include bears, wolverines, beavers, marmots, mountain goats, stone sheep, and more than 140 species of birds.

Nisga’a Museum and Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park

Not many people think of volcanic areas when they think of Canada, but Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park is a great place to experience volcanic areas. But that’s not the only thing that makes it unique. It’s also the first provincial park to be jointly managed by a First Nations tribe and the BC government. It’s a great place for a guided tour and offers an amazing viewpoint above the crater.

Museum of Northern BC

Well, since we’re talking about Nothern BC, how could we not mention the museum dedicated to the area itself. Located on the waterfront in Prince Rupert, the Museum of Northern BC houses a traditional cedar wood longhouse, and various artifacts and exhibits related to the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. Used as a trading centre for more than 9000 years, this a great place to see the culture of the coastal nations.

Haida Gwaii (formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands)

Often referred to as the Galapagos of Canada, Haida Gwaii is about as unique as it gets. Voted as one of National Geographic’s Best Trips in 2015, the area is home to the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, the National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, the Haida Heritage Site, and the Sgang Gwaay UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the last authentic examples of a west coast First Nations Village.

Fun Facts about British Columbia

• British Columbia is FOUR TIMES the size of Great Britain but has less than 1/10th the population.
• BC’s coastline is longer than 27,000 kilometres!
• Half of BC’s population lives in the metropolitan area of Vancouver.
• BC has the mildest climates of any province and territory in Canada.
• Two-thirds of BC land is forest land, with more than half of that area having little or no human contact.
• British Columbia has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, six National Parks and over 400 provincial parks, recreation and conservation areas.

Getting to British Columbia

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to British Columbia, here’s some practical advice on how to get there.

Getting to BC by Car

If you’re planning to drive to BC, it’s sandwiched in-between Alberta, the Yukon, and Washington, USA. Most people arrive by driving in from BC through the Rocky Mountains from Alberta, from the border of Washington, or by plane. Although it’s a VERY large province, it’s fairly under-populated and easy to drive around. If driving from the US, please note that you will have to go through customs.

The Trans-Canada Highway, which goes coast to coast, cuts right through the Rocky Mountains and basically ends in Vancouver (or Victoria, officially). The most spectacular way to arrive in BC is the drive from Calgary to Vancouve r.

Getting to BC by Plane

British Columbia is home to five international airports. These five airports are the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Victoria International Airport (YYJ), Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Abbotsford International Airport (YXX), and the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC). Once you arrive, you can easily rent a car, take a taxi, hop on public transportation, or perhaps, jump on a tour. There are smaller regional airports in BC as well, but most people, especially those visiting from outside the province or country will arrive at one of the three airports mentioned above.

For convenience, Vancouver and Victoria are best for those exploring the coast whereas Kelowna and the Canadian Rockies airport is more convenient for both the Rocky Mountains, interior BC, and the wine region of the Okanagan Valley (Kelowna, specifically). However, for those on a road trip, it might not matter.

Getting Around British Columbia

British Columbia is a large province and is best explored by private vehicle. There are tours, especially for popular areas such as Vancouver, Kelowna, Whistler, and Victoria, and there are some buses as well, but those are very limited in destinations and convenience. Without a doubt, if your goal is to explore various parts of the province, the best way is to rent a car.

Best Time to Visit BC

One of the great things about British Columbia is that it’s a year-round destination for the most part. BC has the mildest climate in the country, which means the winters are much less harsh than other provinces and territories. However, the climate varies greatly on where you go. For example, the mildest climates will be found on the coast, including Vancouver and Vancouver Island. The winters here rarely go below 0 degrees and it will see much more rain than it does snow. On the other hand, the Canadian Rockies in eastern BC, as well as Northern BC will see much more extreme temperatures similar to the rest of Canada.

The busiest and most popular time to visit anywhere in BC is like the rest of Canada, the summer months between June and September. This is when the weather is very warm (or very hot in some areas) and there is much less rain. However, if you don’t mind the rain, even the spring or the winter can be good times to visit the coast, especially if you simply prefer fewer crowds.

In the winter, if you’re looking for snow, you can either head to Whistler, which is just 2 hours from Vancouver, or go east to the Canadian Rockies for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. Likewise, if you want to see epic winter storms, you could head to the far west coastal town of Tofino, one of the most famous surf spots in Canada. Depending on what you do will decide what time you come, but here are our personal recommendations.

Despite the crowds, we love the summer. The weather is hot, the skies are often blue, and all the activities are in full effect. However, the fall would be our second favourite season, as the weather is still warm, the colours are changing, and tourists are fewer in number (although still quite a few). The spring can be nice, especially in Victoria as the flowers start to bloom, but there’s certainly more chance for rain. The winter is the rainest time (January to March), but if you’re seeking snow, this is the best time to visit Whistler and the Canadian Rockies.

Road to 150 – British Columbia Road Trip

Back in 2017, we produced one of the largest independent media campaigns the country has ever seen. The Road to 150 was a 150-day road trip across Canada to produce a 12-part video series and mini-documentary about what makes Canada special. BC was our second-last leg of the trip and became the most popular video of our entire campaign. We had around 20 days to explore the province and came up with a perfect itinerary that can easily be shortened if you’re not capturing video all day long.

Coming from the Yukon, we started our trip off in the very Northern stretches of BC, soaking our tired muscles into the beautiful Liard Hot Springs. Despite the north being so beautiful, we had to skip most of it, as it took 3 entire days of driving to reach Vancouver Island. We spent an entire week here, exploring Victoria, Port Renfrew, Campbell River, and Tofino. We had the most epic whale watching tour of our lives, went surfing, went scuba diving, snorkelled with salmon, watched Grizzly Bears eat the salmon, and even went bungy jumping in Nanaimo.

We then moved on to the massive city of Vancouver, learning about its history and biking through one of the most beautiful urban parks in the world. We then continued east to the Okanagan Valley, tasting delicious wine at their very source, fly-boarding over on of the country’s most famous lakes, and taking a helicopter tour to see it all from the sky. We then pushed east, stopping to see the stunning vistas of Yoho National Park before entering Alberta and the town of Banff.

We highly recommend watching the video above and then heading over to our  Canadian Youtube Channel to see more videos about BC and about the country as well.

Looking For More Things to Do in BC?

We were so excited to explore this incredible province. We got to fly to see so much wildlife including orcas, humpbacks, and Grizzlies. We got to shower in waterfalls, go surfing, and scuba dive. We got to bungy jump off of a bridge, tour wineries, and take scenic helicopter rides. This might just be Canada’s most exciting province and we can’t wait to return and dig deeper!

For more, don’t miss our other travel guides:

• Things to Do Golden BC
• Things to Do in Fernie
• Things to Do in Nanaimo
• Things to Do in Kamloops
• Best Wineries in Osoyoos

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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

March 18, 2018 at 1:54 pm

What a great post! Thank you so very much for sharing. Thanks to you I have so much inspiration now, just what I need! I’m currently planning a trip for my family and I as my parents have their 35 wedding anniversary and want to do a family trip. We plan to travel to British Columbia some time this year, probably in September. I was wondering if you could please let me know what time of year you were in BC?

Thanks and regards, Kimberley Alsemgeest (The Netherlands)

March 18, 2018 at 7:36 pm

Thanks for the kind words, Kimberley. We were in the Netherlands a couple of years ago but only for four days. We hope to come back 🙂 – As for BC, we were there in September. Approx Sept 6 – 27. The fall is a nice time. Less visitors (still lots) and the weather is still great. Fall colours in some areas. Some whale watching tours start to slow down towards the end of September but other than that, I think most tours and activities would be active. Are you coming this year?

August 18, 2021 at 11:26 am

B.C. is so amazing.

June 5, 2022 at 10:02 am

Wow so many great suggestions on here. I think Wild Play Nanaimo has been the most fun day I’ve had in ages. Highly recommend.

July 14, 2020 at 6:18 pm

I’m going to binge watch all your shows now and visit B.C. whenever possible. You guys create awesome videos and have terrific content. This should be made more discoverable to the world.

July 15, 2020 at 3:55 am

Thank you so much. That really means a lot 🙂

April 3, 2021 at 1:04 am

I live in BC and did not know there were so many fantastic things to do. Can’t wait to get outside and try them all.

April 3, 2021 at 11:08 am

For sure, BC is one of the top tourism locations in Canada 🙂

April 6, 2021 at 9:34 pm

I can’t wait to get outside and try these fun things to do in BC this year.

April 10, 2021 at 1:08 pm

April 16, 2021 at 9:52 am

amazing highlighting the beauty of BC! So much to do!

April 19, 2021 at 5:18 pm

Fantastic and I absolutely love these articles.

April 28, 2021 at 1:24 pm

This site will come in very handy again this year, giving us plenty of ideas for things to see and do, whether it’d be in our regions (because we are still confined to health areas) or hopefully when we get the go ahead to start exploring further!

April 28, 2021 at 8:50 pm

I’m just a BC girl, living in a Manitoba world… can’t wait to get back

May 7, 2021 at 4:52 pm

We can’t wait for travel restrictions to be removed so we can explore more of our beautiful province. We hope to make it to Vancouver island this summer and the Rockies.

May 9, 2021 at 7:34 am

It’s a beautiful province to live in and visit.

May 10, 2021 at 3:48 pm

I want to do all of these! I have had short stops in BC but I can’t wait for the borders to open up so I can properly explore our next-door Province!

May 12, 2021 at 8:46 am

Lucky to be so close to visit!

May 13, 2021 at 1:54 pm

This was sooo helpful! I plan to drive to BC very soon 😍 — thank you Must Do!

May 13, 2021 at 8:14 pm

There are so many great places to explore in BC. No need to travel south. Come see Beautiful BC!!

May 14, 2021 at 5:07 pm

BC is one of the most beautiful places on earth. They don’t call it Beautiful BC for nothing.

May 15, 2021 at 1:51 pm

I love exploring BC.

May 16, 2021 at 10:44 pm

Wonderful article thank you!

May 20, 2021 at 4:33 pm

I miss BC and all the opportunities to be outdoors in nature!

May 22, 2021 at 3:49 pm

Love British Columbia, favourite province!!

May 25, 2021 at 9:32 pm

Awesome article!!

May 26, 2021 at 1:27 am

Live in BC and haven’t done a lot of this! Need to catch up…

May 26, 2021 at 6:12 am

Next Destination 🙂

May 28, 2021 at 11:38 pm

Been to Victoria! Want to go again and spend more time on Vancouver Island. There are a few distilleries I want to visit!

May 30, 2021 at 9:27 am

Love Victoria beautiful Butchart gardens

May 31, 2021 at 10:48 am

BC is SOOOO beautiful. Hope to return soon.

June 10, 2021 at 7:54 am

This makes me want to move to BC today! Hoping to move there within the next year. I cannot wait !

June 10, 2021 at 12:47 pm

Love BC nature! Thank you for sharing , now I have more things to add to my must see list.

June 10, 2021 at 9:59 pm

Othello Tunnels in Hope is definitely on the list for me

June 10, 2021 at 11:03 pm

I would love to see this in person iv seen and heard some beautiful stories and pictures about living in BC but would live to see ut just because of the views

June 11, 2021 at 5:16 pm

Happened upon black bears while biking and a grizzly with three cubs while on an atv and I’m very happy to motor off in the opposite direction. Awesome experience but short lived!

June 14, 2021 at 9:05 pm

this article is really timely for me!

June 15, 2021 at 3:46 am

LOVE all these AWESOME IDEAS!

June 25, 2021 at 12:00 pm

I would love to go the Fisherman’s Wharf 😛

August 19, 2021 at 12:35 am

September 1, 2021 at 5:11 am

The views and scenery are just amazing!

September 3, 2021 at 1:05 am

I agree – grabbing a bite to eat on Granville Island is a must-do.

December 7, 2021 at 2:17 pm

Lived in BC my whole life and only done a couple of these. Good inspiration for a summer road trip.

December 7, 2021 at 11:19 pm

Love bc! So much to do!!

February 16, 2022 at 12:40 pm

Come on over to the West Kootenays and enjoy some of our beautiful area. Hot springs, lakes, rivers, camping, skiing, fishing, word’s longest free ferry, golf courses, culture,……We’ve got lots to enjoy!

February 16, 2022 at 1:19 pm

We’re still waiting on the final go-ahead but we may be doing a video series there in the spring!

March 10, 2022 at 7:04 pm

Did Orca Spirit Adventures and Love Exploring British Columbia! Thanks for all the ideas we can do this SUMMER! We love going to Kelowna also and Vancouver!! So many Fun things to do! LOVE to win a PASS so we can explore more!

March 10, 2022 at 10:18 pm

Nice article. Great to see everything in one place.

March 12, 2022 at 8:23 am

BC in my home province and I so love learning more and more

March 13, 2022 at 7:06 am

Thank you for listing a lot of the amazing things to do and plces to see in BC. Im hoping to make trip out there this year.

March 15, 2022 at 11:24 pm

Wow! Fantastic article on B. C. sp many thing I did not know

March 16, 2022 at 2:55 pm

Gotta do some of these in Victoria!!

March 16, 2022 at 10:53 pm

The North Island of Vancouver Island is BY FAR the most beautiful part of BC!

March 18, 2022 at 1:19 pm

So many Wonderful things to do in BC LOVE LOVE LOVE

May 10, 2022 at 9:19 pm

I’ve always wanted to visit B.C. Hope I can go there one day.

March 19, 2022 at 8:46 am

West Coast is the best coast!! ❤️

March 19, 2022 at 9:28 am

Absolutely beautiful, now I have ideas for things to do in BC this year when we go!

March 20, 2022 at 11:00 am

I’m visiting BC right now so was pleased to read this article. The FORBIDDEN VANCOUVER WALKING TOURS is now on my list.

April 5, 2022 at 10:01 pm

I haven’t been to BC in over 20 years, think it’s time for me to go back!

April 8, 2022 at 4:40 pm

Going in Vancouver soon, this is a very good article of things to do and places to see! Thanks!

May 5, 2022 at 11:39 am

B.C. is such a fabulous place to live, I feel so lucky to be a Canadian

May 7, 2022 at 3:53 pm

I’ve always wanted to go whale watching!

May 9, 2022 at 2:24 pm

I’ve always wanted to go whale watching!!

May 10, 2022 at 2:05 pm

This is a great article! Really highlights some of the best stuff to check out here in BC! I recommend everyone in Canada try and get here once in their lives

May 17, 2022 at 11:40 am

Love it here! There’s really something for everyone.

May 18, 2022 at 11:35 am

This is great. We are newer to BC – nice to have some ideas.

May 18, 2022 at 1:38 pm

Wonderful post! Need to plan a vacation soon!

May 18, 2022 at 7:44 pm

I’d love to try out the Pipe Mountain Coaster one day!

May 23, 2022 at 11:05 pm

British Columbia is an amazing place to visit.

May 26, 2022 at 3:52 pm

Beautiful BC!

May 28, 2022 at 8:32 am

I love how diverse this article is in covering our beautiful province!

May 28, 2022 at 10:29 pm

Lucky to call this place home. From te North to the south it is an amazing place to live. You captured the essence of it well.

May 29, 2022 at 7:49 am

Amazing ideas! I’ll definitely be trying the ones I haven’t already.

May 29, 2022 at 8:52 am

Great list. We visited Rmerald Lake for the first time last summer. It’s magnificent!

May 29, 2022 at 5:41 pm

Great to see recommendations for my home city-Vancouver

May 31, 2022 at 7:50 am

Which route is best to take when driving to Vancouver from Alberta? There are several options. Not sure if one has less traffic or better views?

May 31, 2022 at 8:09 am

There are a few. We haven’t taken the one that goes near the US border, but really, Trans-Canada is the fastest and is super scenic. You’ll go through 4-5 national parks.

June 1, 2022 at 8:19 am

Great article, love BC ♥️

June 4, 2022 at 9:59 am

So lucky to have lived in BC most of my life! Best time to visit is May (before the rest of the herd and weather is still pretty good).

June 6, 2022 at 9:03 am

Just walked through Cathedral Grove. So beautiful!

June 6, 2022 at 5:51 pm

I would love to take my kids to Vancouver Aquarium!

June 6, 2022 at 6:55 pm

So many beautiful places to explore in BC! One of my favorites it the hike into Twin Falls in Yoho National Park. Your website is fantastic!

August 24, 2022 at 9:52 am

So much to see and to do in this beautiful province!

August 25, 2022 at 8:56 am

Love BC !!! So pretty!!

August 27, 2022 at 1:35 am

very interesting things to do and see for sure.

August 31, 2022 at 4:27 am

So many great places to visit

September 1, 2022 at 11:36 pm

Love it! Thanks for sharing so many great spots in BC!

September 2, 2022 at 6:18 am

BC is my home, has bn for generations, I haven’t done alot of the things on that list; simply because I am content with doing my own things, in specific places in my own Beautiful British Columbia world. I like to go places and do different things -when I choose, on my own time and terms.

September 2, 2022 at 7:03 am

Beautiful photos. BC is on my bucket list. Love to visit Victoria for the food.

September 2, 2022 at 9:19 am

I live in BC and some of these “things to do” I did not know about it! So thank you! Will check some of these cool spots out!

September 2, 2022 at 9:32 am

great staycation options to look forward to

September 2, 2022 at 11:12 am

Seen many bears and one cougar while atving in the Kootenays. Love this province!

September 2, 2022 at 11:50 am

Duuuuddddde…. I appreciate your passions but can you shorten it up a little bit? Like, think: snippets… digestible bites… pause and take a breath….

September 2, 2022 at 12:15 pm

After Manitoba my favourite province to visit is beautiful British Columbia.

September 2, 2022 at 9:29 pm

I love BC. Thankfully I’ve been blessed to do many of the things on your great list, but I’ve still got some to go! Thanks for a great post!

September 3, 2022 at 1:22 pm

Absolutely love beautiful British Columbia!! Was just out there last week, all the way from Nova Scotia!

September 6, 2022 at 2:23 pm

Loved the Kettle Valley Railway in the Okanagan. We did the steam train in Summerland & biked on some of the trail.

September 12, 2022 at 8:37 pm

I’ve lived in BC for almost 14 years, and I have seen very little of it. This will definitely give me some trip suggestions.

September 14, 2022 at 9:39 am

So many great things to do in BC. I haven’t seen some of the ones listed in this article. Thanks, I’ll have to check out some of them.

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13 Unique Places to Visit in BC & Hidden Gems

British Columbia is home to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes and diverse cities.

The province boasts rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and pristine lakes, making it an ideal spot for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Meanwhile, BC’s bustling cities offer everything from cultural landmarks to interesting museums, diverse cuisine and cool neighbourhoods, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveller.

In this article, I highlight some of the most interesting and unique places to visit in BC.

These include hidden gems that you might not have discovered yet but offer many unforgettable experiences.

Unique Places to Visit in BC

Coastal region, interior region, cities and skiing, hidden gems in bc, responsible travel in bc.

1. Tofino and Ucluelet – These are popular beach towns located on the west coast of Vancouver Island and are known for their rugged natural beauty, pristine beaches and world-class surfing.

These towns are unique in their location on the edge of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

Here, you’ll have the chance to experience a diverse range of ecosystems, including old-growth rainforests, rocky shorelines, and sandy beaches, as well as the area’s rich Indigenous history and culture.

The area is also known for their locally sourced seafood and farm-to-table cuisine, making them a haven for foodies looking to sample the best of Vancouver Island’s specialties.

2. Haida Gwaii – Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is a remote archipelago off the northern coast of BC that is known for its pristine wilderness, rugged beauty, and rich Indigenous history.

The islands are home to the Haida people, who have lived on the islands for thousands of years, and their culture and traditions are deeply ingrained in the land and sea.

Visitors to Haida Gwaii can explore the ancient rainforests, observe abundant wildlife, learn about Haida culture and art, and experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

The archipelago also boasts unique geological formations, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of SG̲ang Gwaay, also known as Ninstints, a village of beautifully preserved Haida totem poles and longhouses.

3. The Sunshine Coast – For a laid-back getaway with stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere, be sure to check out the Sunshine Coast, a picturesque string of coastal communities.

Located just a short ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver, you can unwind, relax, and soak up the natural beauty of BC’s rugged coastline.

Some of the popular coastal communities along the Sunshine Coast include Gibsons, Sechelt, Roberts Creek, Halfmoon Bay, Madeira Park, and Powell River.

4. Nanaimo – The second-largest city on Vancouver Island, has a picturesque harbour, abundant green spaces, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a balance of city amenities and natural beauty.

One of the unique features of Nanaimo is its world-famous Nanaimo Bar , a delicious no-bake dessert that consists of a chocolate and coconut base, a creamy custard filling, and a chocolate ganache topping, which is said to have originated in the city in the 1950s.

If you’re planning a visit to Vancouver Island, don’t miss my guide to the best places to stay in Nanaimo , showcasing a diverse range of accommodations that capture the city’s vibrant spirit and natural beauty.

5. Osoyoos – A unique desert town in the Okanagan Valley’s southern part. Known as Canada’s only true desert, it is characterised by warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it a popular destination if you’re seeking a sun-drenched holiday.

In addition to its arid climate, Osoyoos is also renowned for its exceptional wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours for visitors. The region is home to over 40 wineries, ranging from small family-run operations to larger, more established vineyards.

The town also boasts a number of picturesque lakes, including Osoyoos Lake, the warmest lake in Canada and perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.

6. Kelowna – Located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of urban and natural experiences.

Its downtown core is alive with boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants, while its surrounding areas boast beautiful parks and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.

The city is also renowned for its vineyards and wineries, making it a great destination to mix the advantages of city life with wine tasting.

If you’re looking for unique and stylish accommodation options in the heart of BC’s beautiful Okanagan Valley, be sure to check out my guide to the best boutique hotels in Kelowna , featuring top-rated properties that cater to all kinds of travellers.

7. Hot Springs Cove – This unique destination is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island and is known for its natural hot springs that offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience.

The hot springs are only accessible by boat or seaplane, which makes the journey to this remote location all the more memorable.

8. Wells Gray Provincial Park – The park is a vast and rugged wilderness area located in east-central BC. This park is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Canada, including Helmcken Falls, which plummets 141 meters down into a deep canyon.

You can also enjoy scenic lakes, lush forests, and a network of hiking trails that wind through the park’s rugged terrain.

9. Tweedsmuir Provincial Park – One of the largest parks in British Columbia, its size and diverse landscapes make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

The park features towering mountains, sweeping glaciers, and ancient rainforests, providing visitors with a wide range of hiking and camping opportunities.

Tweedsmuir is also home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bald eagles, making it a unique place to observe and appreciate the natural beauty of British Columbia.

10. Othello Tunnels – Located within Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, the Othello Tunnels are a unique and scenic spot that attracts visitors worldwide.

The tunnels and bridges, which were once part of the Kettle Valley Railway, now serve as a popular hiking trail that provides stunning views of the surrounding granite walls and the Coquihalla River below.

The trail is a great option for families or casual hikers, as it’s relatively flat and easy to navigate, and there are plenty of interpretive signs along the way that provide information about the area’s history and geology.

11. Vancouver – Vancouver is a bustling city on the west coast of Canada, and what makes it unique is its stunning natural setting, surrounded by mountains and the ocean.

When visiting Vancouver, you can take in panoramic views from atop Grouse Mountain, explore the lush Stanley Park, or stroll along the seawall to take in the city’s skyline.

Vancouver is also known for its vibrant culture, thriving arts and music scene, and diverse and multicultural population, contributing to a fusion of cuisines and flavours.

I enjoyed exploring Vancouver’s diverse inner-city neighbourhoods . You might like this if you’re interested in visiting cool bars, hipster cafes, independent boutiques and galleries.

If you’re looking for unique and luxurious accommodation, don’t miss my guide to the best boutique hotels in Vancouver , featuring hidden gems in neighborhoods like the West End and Yaletown.

12. Victoria – The capital of British Columbia is a charming city on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Victoria’s blend of British colonial history and modern Canadian culture makes it unique.

You can explore the grand architecture of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the iconic Empress Hotel or stroll through the pretty streets of Old Town to discover boutique shops and restaurants.

One of the city’s most famous attractions is the Butchart Gardens, a sprawling floral display that has been attracting visitors for over 100 years.

Victoria is also a hub for outdoor activities, including whale watching, kayaking, and hiking in the nearby wilderness areas.

Interesting places of interest in Victoria include Craigdarroch Castle, the Royal BC Museum, and afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, one of the most unique places to stay in BC.

If you’re seeking an unforgettable stay in British Columbia’s capital city, check out my guide to the top boutique hotels in Victoria , featuring hand-picked accommodations that showcase the city’s unique charm and character.

13. Whistler – Located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is a world-famous resort town known for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding terrain.

However, Whistler is unique because of the incredible range of outdoor activities available year-round.

In the summer, you can go mountain biking, zip-lining, and hiking on some of the most scenic trails in North America. The town is also known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to choose from.

Whistler is also committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including using renewable energy and a zero-waste policy .

Cool and unusual experiences in Whistler include the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the Scandinave Spa, and ziplining adventures. But there are many more!

For a truly unforgettable mountain getaway, take a look at my guide to the best boutique hotels in Whistler , highlighting cozy and luxurious accommodations in this iconic alpine destination.

Exploring hidden gems in BC offers a chance to escape the crowds and discover some of the province’s most stunning natural beauty and unique cultural experiences.

Discover secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters, hike scenic trails offering stunning views, explore quirky museums highlighting local history and culture, or get lost in the charming small towns that dot the province.

You can expect to uncover breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in local communities and traditions by visiting lesser-known destinations.

The hidden gems of BC offer diverse experiences that I hope you’ll find engaging, charming, or different.

These unique and unforgettable experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression and will give you a true taste of the beauty and character of British Columbia.

If you’re interested in how to travel more sustainably and responsibly, here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Consider taking public transportation, cycling, or walking to reduce your carbon footprint when travelling between destinations.
• Opt for eco-friendly accommodations that prioritise sustainable practices, such as renewable energy sources and energy-efficient lighting.
• Stick to designated trails to avoid damaging sensitive ecosystems and wildlife habitats when exploring nature.
• Respect the natural environment by disposing of waste properly, avoiding the use of single-use plastics and minimising food waste.
• Shop and dine at locally-owned businesses to support the local economy and reduce carbon emissions from shipping and transportation. Look for restaurants that use locally-sourced, sustainably-produced ingredients and try to limit meat and dairy consumption.

By taking these steps, you can minimise your impact on the environment while enjoying all that BC has to offer and help ensure that these natural wonders will be preserved for generations to come.

Final Thoughts

When visiting this region, you’ll discover a range of unique destinations in BC, such as the remote archipelago of Haida Gwaii, the natural hot springs at Hot Springs Cove, the enchanting Othello Tunnels, and much more.

Don’t miss the chance to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and experience the province’s natural beauty and diversity.

British Columbia is known for its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to towering mountains and expansive forests. Some popular destinations known for their natural beauty include Tofino, the Okanagan Valley, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Whistler. However, many other hidden gems and lesser-known areas may also be considered stunningly beautiful.

The best month to visit British Columbia can depend on the specific activities and sights you’re interested in, but generally, the summer months from June to August offer the warmest weather and the most opportunities for outdoor activities. However, other seasons such as spring and autumn can also offer unique experiences and stunning scenery, while winter is ideal for visiting ski resorts like Whistler.

British Columbia has a wide variety of special attractions, including natural wonders like the Rocky Mountains, Pacific coastline, and rainforests, as well as vibrant cities like Vancouver and Victoria, and unique cultural experiences like Indigenous art and traditions, wildlife watching, and outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and water sports.

Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.

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25 Best Small Towns In BC To Visit

How many times have you driven through small towns in BC on your way to ‘somewhere’, only to find out later that you missed something interesting or special? That sure can be disappointing, especially if you’re unlikely to visit that area again. Hopefully, my collection of small towns in BC will get you to stop next time you drive through one of the towns.

I’m on the road a lot in my home province of British Columbia and I have visited many more small towns in BC than the ones mentioned here. This made it a real challenge to choose the most unique small towns in British Columbia to add to my list.

Here you have it, my selection of 25 unique small towns in BC to visit with a short overview and reasons why you should visit them.

Many other small towns in British Columbia are worth a visit. Some are located close to the ones I mentioned. Don’t miss out, stop at all places along the way and you will be surprised by what you will find.

In this selection, I included mostly small towns in British Columbia that are not on the official tourist routes. Some of the places will be out of the way. Please do your research and be prepared before heading out. Read more: Road Trip Planner for the Wilderness

Unique Small Towns In BC

Facts About Small Towns In British Columbia

Table of Contents

British Columbia is the third largest and most westerly province in Canada. It is larger than France and Germany combined, or almost four times the size of Great Britain. The length of BC’s coastline is over 27,000 km. 

That of course means that the 25 small towns to visit in BC can’t be achieved during a two-week vacation. Start with getting to know one region at a time and you will discover many unique towns you never knew existed.

25 Unique Small Towns In BC To Visit

1. lumby bc.

Lumby was my hometown for twenty-plus years and deserves to be the first one on my list. This unique small country town was a Canadian adventure destination for many, while I operated Silver Spur Trails Wilderness Guest Ranch in the Mabel Lake Valley.

Lumby is the getaway to the Monashee and the region is a hiker’s paradise with over 100 nearby trails. The many lakes invite you to fish, swim and enjoy watersports. It is easy to spot wildlife in the surrounding backcountry.

Don’t just rush through this unique BC town. A drive out to Mabel Lake Provincial Park and Echo Lake is a must to get a taste of what this special place is all about. What about wilderness camping at one of the forestry campgrounds for a night?

Read more: Lumby BC, North Okanagan

Lumby Bucket List:

• Follow the Salmon Trail for a leisurely, scenic stroll through Lumby.
• Venture to Monashee Provincial Park for serious hiking trails with awe-inspiring views and pristine lakes.
• Chasing Waterfalls at Shuswap Falls, Brenda Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Cascade Falls.
• Visit Mabel Lake Provincial Park for sandy beaches, watersports, hiking, and camping.
• Head to Echo Lake Provincial Park, an idyllic small lake perfect for a canoe or kayak.

2. Silverton

Silverton, a tiny gem on the east shore of Slocan Lake, 5 km south of New Denver is a great small town in BC for a relaxing break. The area was first settled in 1892 by the arrival of lead and silver miners working the south face of Idaho Mountain.

With a population of nearly 195 people, Silverton is British Columbia’s second smallest municipality. As you can guess it’s hard to get lost in this little town! Silverton has a lakeshore campground with a boat launch if you decide to spend a night.

Read more: Backcountry Camping

Bucket List Silverton:

• Have a stroll around town and enjoy the beautiful heritage buildings.
• Stop at Silverton Day Park overlooking the lake.
• Camp for the night at the Lakeshore Campground.

3. New Denver

The small BC town of Denver, and other surrounding communities, are where hundreds of Canadians of Japanese heritage were brought during the Second World War. The Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre in New Denver is the only interpretive centre in Canada dedicated to the history of this tragic story.

New Denver had a number of abandoned houses from the boom times, but many more small dwellings were built to house the 2,000 men, women, and children of Japanese origins. Some of these tiny houses still exist today.

Read more: West-Kootenay Route

Bucket List New Denver:

• Visit the Silvery Slogan Museum.
• Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre, tells the sad story of over 22,000 Japanese Canadians.
• Kohan Reflection Garden is a Japanese-type garden with a beautiful tea house.
• Take a walk or cycle the 8 km Galena Trail, an old railway bed that extends from Rosebery to Three Forks.
• Wilson Creek Falls, a short easy hike leading to a beautiful 100+ foot waterfall.

Don’t miss out on a detour to Sandon, one of the best small towns to visit in BC.

If you’re a history buff, interested in abandoned buildings and old artifacts, old the ghost town of Sandon in British Columbia has to be on your bucket list. There was a time when Sandon was a thriving mining community. But when the silver ran out, it quickly lost its fame. After a fire in the early 1900s and later followed by two major floods, much of the town was burned down and washed away.

Today, less than a handful of people live permanently in Sandon. It’s free to walk around and visit the fire hall, the old abandoned busses, and abandoned buildings and tour the operational hydroelectric station.

Meet Vida and Hal and get inspired by their story and how they fight and work hard to keep the town alive. Sanden is located a short drive from New Denver.

Bucket List Sandon:

• Rent a campsite right on the river and stay for the night.
• Experience the ghost town at night when the reflections of ghosts dance along the walls of the old City Hall.
• In the morning have breakfast at 14th Mountain Bistro.
• Drop in at Prospector’s Pick Gift Shop.
• Take a tour of Silversmith Power Hydroelectric Power Station.
• Check out the Canadian Brill Trolley National Collection.
• Visit the museum, operated by the Sandon History Society.
• Take a drive to Cody, another ghost town just up the road.

Salmo, another beautiful small town in BC to visit was originally just a whistle-stop on the historic Nelson/Fort Shepherd Railway. At the turn of the last century, it became a centre for supplies and entertainment for prospectors, miners, and loggers.

Today Salmo is a quaint town at the junction of two highways. Fishing and swimming holes are there to be discovered along the picturesque Salmo River. It’s a playground for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and BMXing at the ski hill. There is also the 48 km stretch of the old railway line that connects Nelson, Ymir, and Salmo.

Bucket List Salmo:

• Visit the Salmo Museum for mining artifacts and historic information on the Dewdney Trail.
• Take a stroll around town and look out for the rock murals.
• Use the pedestrian bridge across Salmon River and head to Springboard Park.
• Go on a strenuous 3 km hike to the Delaurentis Bluffs Lookout.
• Take Sheep Creek Road 8 km south of town which takes you to the Sheep Creek Mines, an abandoned gold mining town.

6. Greenwood

If you dwell on the image of a romantic Canadian town, you should definitely visit Greenwood BC. Greenwood is a historic small town with approximately 675 residents and is located in the Boundary region of British Columbia. It is Canada’s official smallest city (and yes, there is Keno City in the Yukon, but that one is unofficial). Greenwood’s history goes back to 1891 with the discovery of gold, silver, and copper.

Today, Greenwood is a great destination for history buffs. Greenwood is the gateway to the Great Trail and has a large trail network to offer for any skill level. A visit to the museum is a must. Pick up pamphlets and maps of the area.

Read more: Boundary Travel Guide

Bucket List Greenwood:

• Stop in at the Greenwood Museum.
• Take a self-guided Heritage Walking Tour through the downtown core.
• A guided tour of the Courthouse located at city hall is a must.
• Visit the old Phoenix Cemetery on the road to Phoenix, about 7 km from Greenwood.

Oliver is another one of British Columbia’s hidden gems. The town is known as Canada’s Wine Capital and therefore is the place to go for wine tasting. On top of that, the town is rich in culture and has excellent cuisine. You can trust my word, as it was my home for a couple of years.

Oliver is close to Osoyoos BC and less touristy. Here you are close to lakes and many hiking and biking trails.

Read more: Oliver BC – Outdoor Travel Guide

Bucket List Oliver:

• Check out Oliver’s Movie Theatre on Main Street, the best little Theatre far and wide.
• Visit the Museum and look into local history.
• Walk or bike along the Okanagan River Canal.
• Camp at one of the nearby Lakes.
• Stop at the local wineries.
• Stock up on fresh produce at the many fruit stands.
• Visit Fairview Historic Site.

Famous for gold since its first discovery in 1897, Headley was once a thriving mining boomtown during the 1900s.

Numerous Historic Sites and buildings let you peek into the past. You can reach them by car or foot, including a 1904 miner’s cottage, a Historic Log Barn, the Blacksmith Shop, as well as the Mascot Mine buildings. Take a stroll through small town Hedley’s Historic Cemetery to get an idea of who lived in these buildings. Maps are available at the museum.

Bucket List Headly:

• Learn about the mining history at the Headley Museum.
• Pan for gold at the Hedley Heritage Museum.
• Check out Hedley’s Historic Sites.
• Tour the historic Mascot Mine high above Hedley.

9. Coalmont

Coalmont was a coal mining town established in 1910 and the Historic Colemont Hotel still stands today. Driving into town is like stepping back in time. Old buildings from historic times are lining the main street. Nearby you will find the gold-mining ghost town of Granite City and the ghost town of Blakeburn. The Forestry Campground at Granite City is a great place to use as a base to explore this interesting place.

Bucket List Coalmont and Granite Creek:

• Stop at the entrance of the town and check out the unique welcome signs and town information.
• Walk along the main street and admire the old buildings.
• Drive to Granite Creek, known as Granite City by locals.
• Camp at Granite Creek Recreation Site.
• At Granite Creek, visit the old ghost town and follow the interpretive signs.
• Walk up to the old cemetery on the hill.
• Cool off in the Tulameen River.

10. Tulameen

Tulameen is a beautiful hidden gem to visit in British Columbia. Located on the southern end of Otter Lake on Coalmont Road past the village of Coalmont it is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts.

You can access the Trans Canada Trail from here as well as several other trails with various levels of difficulty and terrain. There are more than forty good trout fishing lakes in the area, as well as the Similkameen and Tulameen rivers.

Tulameen has an excellent public beachfront and boat launch.

Otter Lake Provincial Park is 5 km north of Tulameen and is a great place to camp. The Cascade Mountain Range surrounds the park and includes awesome canyons and clear mountain streams.

Bucket List Tulameen:

• Cycle along the Great Trai (Trans Canada Trail.
• Hike the many scenic trails in the area.
• Camp at Otter Lake and enjoy the beach.
• Try gold panning at the Tulameen River.
• Hike the Rice Historic Trail, a 4 km return trip.
• Visit Tulameen Falls, 30 km on the Tulameen FSR.

11. Merritt

Before Merritt was known as the Country Music Capital of Canada, locals used to rave about the beautiful Nicola Valley with their slogan “a lake a day, as long as you stay”. Once you spend a day at one of the many lakes in Nicola Valley, you will know why the old slogan is still true.

Merritt is rich with Country Music Legend Murals and Walk of Star handprints throughout town. Country music inspires the country lifestyle, and with the huge surrounding ranch land, you know that you’re in Cowboy Country.

Once you start exploring the area around Merritt, you don’t want to leave.

Read more: BC Road trip Merritt to Kamloops Highway 5A

Bucket List Merritt:

• Visit the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
• Walk the walk of Merritt Walk of Stars and the Country Legends Murals.
• Spend time at Nicola Valley Museum and Archives.
• Spend a day at Monck Provincial Park.
• Camp at Lundbom Lake.
• Kentucky Alleyne Provincial Park is another great place for overnight camping.

12. Lillooet

Lillooet was founded as Mile 0 on the wagon road leading to the Cariboo and Barkerville gold fields and was the centre of the gold rush during the mid-1800s.

Today, a cairn sits on Main Street marking “Mile 0” of the historic trail. Formerly known as Cayoosh Canyon, Lillooet is one of the oldest communities in British Columbia.

This small BC town is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks with lakes, desert country, and the mighty Fraser River making this a unique place.

Bridge of the Twenty-Three Camels is the official name of the highway bridge crossing the Fraser River. Camels were introduced to the area in 1862 as fright animals. Unfortunately, the camel era didn’t last long and today the bridge honours their memory.

There is so much to see and do in this historic old town in BC. With all the camp and accommodation options you might as well stay for at least a couple of night.

Read more: Guaranteed Rugged Rail Journey

Lillooet Bucket List:

• Visit the Lillooet Museum and Visitor Centre, situated in a former Anglican church.
• Pick up a self-guided walking tour map for the Golden Miles History walking tour.
• Walk the “Jade Walk” downtown showcasing an impressive variety of jade boulders.
• Visit the Miyazaki Heritage House, known as the most beautiful house in Lillooet.
• Book a tour to visit historical fishing grounds and learn how salmon was dried.
• Stop in at the Fort Berens Estate Winery.
• Hop on the Kaoham Shuttle , the train that runs between Lillooet and Seton Portage.

13. Clinton

Clinton is a charming small town on the Cariboo Highway with western-type heritage buildings, a beautiful little church, and antique shops to wander around in. Explore nearby provincial parks or stay at one of the guest ranches for a horseback riding adventure.

Clinton and its surrounding area have a rich history full of stories and changes. Settlement occurred in the mid-1800s with the discovery of gold and the development of the Cariboo wagon road.

Bucket List Clinton:

• Visit the Clinton Museum.
• Stroll around town and hunt for some treasures at one of the antique stores.
• Detour to the famous Gang Ranch, 45 km north of Clinton, one of the largest ranches in North America for many years.
• Stay at one of the nearby guest ranches and ride the range.
• Visit Painted Chasm, 15 km north of Clinton.

Read the books to learn about the Gang Ranch:

• The incredible Gang Ranch by Dale Alsager
• Gang Ranch The Real Story by Judy Alsager

Likely is a small rural community in the Cariboo Region, nestled in the foothills of the Cariboo Mountains. This area played an important role during the Cariboo Gold Rush of 1859. The region used to be so rich in gold that it was known as the Nugget Patch.

Today Likely is a friendly small rural town with a population of around 350 people.

In the surrounding areas of this small town in BC, you will find many crystal-clear lakes and rivers. It’s heaven for recreational activities and backcountry camping.

Likely is the gateway to the Cariboo Mountains and a unique small town in BC you don’t want to miss. The “ Backroad through Barkerville ” is a wilderness scenic trip that allows you to travel through sub-alpine meadows and view thundering waterfalls.

The small town of Likely is not on any tourist route and is a bit out of the way. Of course, this makes it even more appealing to visit and explore.

Read more: Camping at the Ghost Town of Quesnel Forks

Bucket List Likely:

• Stop at the scenic Cedar Point Park. 
• Check out the largest man-made bullion pit in North America
• Take a side trip to Quesnel Forks .
• Visit Horsefly Provincial Park and camp.
• Drive the wilderness road through the Cariboo Mountains.

15. Barkerville

Billy Barker’s legendary gold strike on Williams Creek in 1862 brought fortune seekers from around the world into the remote wilderness.

Today Barkerville Historic Town is a Canadian National Historic Site and British Columbia’s best-known heritage destination. 125 restored buildings are on display with knowledgeable historic interpreters guiding you through Barkerville’s rich history. The town is full of activities, interactive lessons, storytelling, theatrical performances, gold panning, stagecoach rides, and more!

• Historic Barkerville
• Barkerville Highway 26 Travel Guide
• Wilderness Road Trip through the Cariboo Mountains

Bucket List Barkerville:

• Enjoy a show at Theatre Royal.
• Take a horse-drawn stagecoach tour of the town.
• Live a true Gold Rush experience, at the Eldorado Gold Panning.
• Go for a walk on the historic Williams Creek Nature Trail.

The mountain town of Wells in British Columbia was built when the promise of more gold attracted new gold seekers in 1927 with the population reaching over 4000 people in the 1940s.

With fewer than 300 year-round residents in Wells today, the small community of Wells has become the home for artists and outdoor enthusiasts. Many of the heritage buildings have been restored, including the Wells Hotel and the Sunset Theatre, where you can enjoy live music, live theatre, and concerts all through the summer.

• Wells BC on the Gold Rush Trail

Bucket List Wells:

• Visit the Wells Museum to take a step back to the glory days.
• Explore the remains of the ghost town of Stanley 13 km west of Wells.
• Jack O’ Clubs Lake is a great place to canoe, swim, sail, or fish.

16. Fort St. James

Fort St. James is located on the shores of Stuart Lake, and it is the gateway to recreation in the great northern backcountry. Here you will find a welcoming community where you can relax on the beach, and enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets around.

Only at Fort St. James, British Columbia – a chicken race you can bet on. What a blast! And what a crowd! You heard right, Fort St. James has WORLD CLASS Chicken Racing – Place your bets and win Chicken Bucks! 

Bucket List Fort St. James:

• Enjoy Fort St. James National Historic Site.
• Make a bet in a Chicken race.
• This is the place to be if you’re a rock hound! Stoll the beach for semi-precious stones.
• Check out Cottonwood Park.
• Visit Our Lady of Good Hope Church.

18. Bella Coola

Chilcotin Highway 20 from Williams Lake runs 465 km to Bella Coola, a small wilderness town in a fantastic setting. You will be in for a surprise when you leave the Chilcotin plateau and get to the bottom of the notorious Hill, a windy and steep stretch of gravel road.

There is plenty to see and do in the Bella Coola. Bella Coola’s wildlife sights are some of the best in British Columbia. From Bear Viewing to Bird Watching, Bella Coola’s Wildlife will amaze you. It’s like a vast, wilderness viewing stage.

The lush meadows, dense forests, and high mountain ranges are home to grizzly and black bears, blacktail deer, wolves, cougars, and mountain goats.

Learn about Bella Coola Valley’s rich history while you’re in town and get a real feel for this spiritual place.

Read more: The Road to Bella Coola

Bucket List Bella Coola:

• Learn about the varied history of the valley at the Bella Coola Museum.
• Visit Clayton Falls.
• Hire a guide to see the Petroglyphs.
• Book a wildlife viewing tour.
• Check out the Art House Gallery.
• Visit the Norwegian Heritage House in Hagenborg.

Small Towns To Visit in Northern British Columbia

19. hazelton.

The frontier spirit lives on in Hazelton. The restored heritage buildings of the “Old Town” serve as a reminder of the days when Hazelton was the commercial centre of the Northwest wilderness.

From 1886 to 1913, Hazelton was the upriver terminus for a fleet of sternwheelers when the Skeena River was the transportation route for people and goods.

Today, Old Hazelton is a reconstructed pioneer town complete with a Trading Post, Barber Shop, Cafe, and City Hall buildings plus a sternwheeler on display on the Skeena River. The region is a great destination for remote wilderness activities and camping and First Nation Culture.

Read more: Hazelton BC – a journey through time

Bucket List Hazelton:

• Park your car and walk across Hagwilget Canyon Bridge
• Spend time at Ksan Historical Village and Museum, walk through longhouses and learn the history.
• Visit Ross Lake Provincial Park and take the trail around the lake.
• Kitwanga, a side trip from Hazelton to see outstanding carved cedar poles and St. Paul’s Anglican Church, was built in 1893. It is also the site of Gitwangak Battle Hill National Historic Site of Canada.

20. Prince Rupert

Another end-of-the-road small town you don’t want to miss, is Prince Rupert, a colourful coastal town on British Columbia’s wild and beautiful Northwest Coast. Here is where you can board a ship to Alaska, Vancouver Island, or Haida Gwaii if you have a reservation or stick around for a few days.

To stick around was my plan, but after two days of pouring rain, I gave up and left. On a sunny day, this harbour town would be a jewel to explore. Check the weather forecast before driving all this way.

Plan your trip with The Milepost Road Planner

Bucket List Prince Ruppert:

• Take a stroll along the waterfront District of Cow Bay.
• Watch out for the totem poles around town and murals.
• Visit Sunken Gardens Park, a local treasure.
• For an easy hike, head down Rushbrook Trail.
• Butze Rapids Trail is a 4.5 km loop starting 3 km south of town.
• Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary is home to more than 50 of the giants.
• Spend some time in the Northern Museum of BC
• Visit Historic North Pacific Cannery, located in Port Edward, just a short drive from Prince Rupert.

21. Gitwinksihlkw

Gitwinksihlkw is one of the four villages on the Nisga’a Highway 113. From Terrace, BC Nisga’a Highway takes you through the Nass Valley on an amazing 170 km drive. This off-the-beaten-track highway is not mentioned in any of my travel books. You will pass First Nations settlements along rivers and mountains and through a volcanic landscape. I can’t even imagine!

For years, the community of Gitwinksihlkw was accessible only by suspension footbridge. Today, a modern vehicle bridge provides direct access. Watch out for the four totem poles flanking the bridge.

Bucket List Gitwinksihlkw:

• Walk across Ukws-Ts’agat, the suspension footbridge.
• Stop at the village entrance bridge to take a picture.
• Inquire at the village office about hiking trails and viewpoints.
• Visit the other three villages on Nisga’a Highway 13.

22. Stewart

Stewart, this unique small BC town located at the head of the historic 90-mile-long Portland Canal is surrounded by rich forests and Cambria ice fields. On the way to Stewart, you will see glacier formations overlooking the highway and most probably encounter bears crossing the road.

From Stewart, continue the short drive to Hyder Alaska, Stewart’s border town to see Salmon Glacier, the world’s largest road-accessible glacier.

You can get there driving the Salmon Glacier Road from Hyder, Alaska. Navigating around the potholes will get you to the Summit Viewpoint and you will be rewarded with spectacular views.

Read more: Stewart BC Hyder Alaska Travel Guide

Bucket List Stewart:

• Walk through the Estuary along the boardwalk to enjoy great views out to the bay.
• Visit the local museum.
• Take a short trip to Clements Lake for a dip or a picnic.
• Visit the neighbouring border town of Hyder, Alaska.
• Venture on the epic drive to Bear Glacier Provincial Park.
• Spend some time at the Fish Creek Wildlife viewing platform (Hyder Alaska).

23. Telegraph Creek

Telegraph Creek is a small town in BC with roughly 250 permanent residents offering only basic services.

To get to the small town of Telegraph Creek in British Columbia you need to conquer 150 km of gravel driving, steep gradients (up to 20 percent), narrow passages along canyon walls, and sharply angled switchbacks. I was glad I had a 4WD and no motorhome or trailer to pull.

The Stikine Valley is home to the Tahlthan First Nation. In summer families gather at traditional fish camps along the Stikine River to catch and put up salmon.

The Stikine route was used to haul men and equipment to build the airport at Watson Lake during World War II with riverboats and trucks running to and from Dease Lake. The last riverboat made her final voyage in 1969.

Read more: Stewart-Cassiar Hwy 37 Highway Travel Guide

Bucket List Telegraph Creek:

• Enjoy the epic drive to Telegraph Creek.
• Stroll the streets of Telegraph Creek and imagine the sights of the paddle wheelers on the Stikine River during the gold rush era.
• Take in the sight of deserted buildings as well as restored ones dating back a century or more. The original Hudson’s Bay Company Store has been turned into a cafe, general store, and lodge.
• Go river boating on the Stikine River with an experienced river tour operator.

24. Jade City/Cassiar

Jade City is named for the extensive jade deposits found nearby and offers a glimpse into jade mining. Not so much of a city, but a special “spot on the road” in the Cassiar Highlands of northwestern British Columbia, on Highway 37 near Yukon .

With a population of approximately 20 people, the family-run jade mining operation is a stop of particular interest on the Stewart Cassiar Highway. The owners of the Cassiar Mountain Jade Store are experts in everything from prospecting to carving this beautiful stone.

Enjoy free coffee, free camping, and free Internet.

Bucket List Jade City

• Spend time at the Cassiar Mountain Jade Store and learn about the area and jade mining. This is a great place to buy beautiful souvenirs.
• Visit the ghost town of Cassiar, an old asbestos mining town 10 km west of the highway.
• There are old mining trails into the mountains for the adventure seeker. Ask at the store.
• Look out for Thinhorn mountain sheep, mountain goats, caribou, and moose in the area.

No wonder the remote community of Atlin on the eastern shore of Atlin Lake in the far northwestern tip of British Columbia is known as “Little Switzerland”. Atlin is a pretty unique small town in BC and worth a visit. By road, you only can get to this beautiful small British Columbia town from Yukon .

While there, make sure to hike up to the top of Monarch Mountain, a spectacular 4-hour hike with a million-dollar view.

Read more: Atlin BC Travel Guide

Bucket List Atlin:

• Try Gold panning on Pine Creek.
• Enjoy bird watching at the lagoon at the end of First Street in Atlin.
• Mountain biking at its best on old forestry roads and mining roads.
• Motorboating, canoeing, and kayaking on the lakes around Atlin.
• Try white water kayaking.
• Check out glacier flights, boat charters, guided tours, and heliskiing.
• Monarch Mountain is a 4-hour hike with spectacular views.

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Yrene lives in the Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada, and is the founder of BackcountryCanadaTravel.com. She was born in Switzerland, lived and worked on different continents and has travelled the world. Yes, that's me, an Entrepreneur, wilderness nut and animal lover who prefers off-the-beaten-track places. I write about things I love. Mostely.

Wow, you’ve been a busy girl !!!

No wonder we haven’t heard much from you. Excellent job ! Looking forward to reading it in detail while under the covers one night.

Thanks, Camper Ken! Yes, I have to take advantage of these cold, dark winter days to produce new useful content. So much to do and so little time. I just don’t get much done when I’m on the road. Merry Christmas to you!

Glen Shadlock

Wow…there’s like 14 I have never been to…I do plan on exploring our Beautiful Province and Alberta more this summer. Cool blog..👍🇨🇦

Thanks for the feedback, Glen. I’m sure glad you got inspired by my blog. Now, thinking of it… Armstrong BC and Enderby would have been two more special places for my collection. But I had to stop somewhere. Merry Christmas to you!

Nastassia ljungh

Bear glacier is actually in Canada 🙂 when you drive through hyder, after the bear sanctuary (where the gravel road starts) you actually enter back into Canada!

Thanks for that correction Nastassia. How cool is that! Such an amazing place.

Looks like you travel and have been very busy around B.C. just a quick correction, its SLOCAN LAKE not SLOGAN i’m sure you have had more people correct this as well . No biggy just read your article which was great and seen this.

Thanks, Shawn for the correction. Unfortunately, my income from the website is not enough to hire a proofreader yet! I always appreciate knowing that people out there actually read my stuff, which makes my efforts worthwhile. All the best to you!

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23 Cool and Quirky Places to Stay in BC (that you can actually afford)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on May 16, 2022

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British Columbia is home to some of the most unique accommodations in the world. Paired with fun and immersive experiences like farm stays, historic ghost towns and world-class wineries, a trip through BC is a bucket list vacation for both tourists and locals.

Here are the coolest, most unique and magical places to stay in BC.

Whether you’re on a family road trip, a romantic getaway or just need to escape for the weekend with your dog, one of these Airbnbs, boutique hotels, historic homes and quirky hidden gems is sure to catch your eye.

And don’t worry – we’ve read through every single review on each of these listings to ensure we’ve only included the best out there. No need to worry about renting something dodgy.

If you do, however, want to guarantee the perfect vacation rental, read my guide with 12 tips and tricks .

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Converted Vintage Trailer

Location: Just outside of Salmon Arm (Shuswap)

Quite possibly the most interesting and magical place to stay in BC.

This is a 1953 travel trailer that has been uniquely encased in a covered patio for 1200 square feet of living space.

This vacation rental is off-grid, solar powered and includes a scenic outdoor shower. You’ll love your secluded paradise, being surrounded by what feels like a fairy garden.

Perfect for families or a romantic retreat. It’s also dog friendly. 

Nearby attractions:

• Shuswap lakes for beaches and boating
• Several wineries
• Enderby Cliffs (hiking)
• Retro drive-in movie theatre

Check prices & availability here . 

Pocket Home

Location: Lemon Creek, near Slocan

Try out tiny home living! This is a brand new tiny home with ultra modern touches, located in British Columbia’s newest tiny home community – Big Calm.

Your 215 square feet of living space feels much larger from the massive windows providing hours of natural sunlight.

Explore the trails throughout the 30 acres of property, or enjoy coffee or happy hour on the patio or by the campfire. Be one of the first to experience this brand new concept. 

Check prices and availability here.

Pangea Pod Hotel

Location: Whistler

If you thought pod hotels were only found in Japan, think again!

Located in the heart of downtown Whistler, you won’t find a cheaper place to stay. But cheap doesn’t mean bad – this capsule hotel is super cool.

The pods are modern, clean and cozy. And the best part is that they offer both 2-person and single pods – perfect for any type of traveler.

There’s also an onsite restaurant and lounge, as well as many coffee shops within a couple minutes. 

If you’re visiting Whistler on a budget, these unique pod accommodations are exactly what you’re looking for.

View prices and availability here

Beehive Cedar Cabins

Location: Tofino 

The Ocean Village in Tofino exudes everything cool about this surf town.

Offering the perfect west coast vibe, these cabins were originally built in the 70s, but have since been renovated with all the modern amenities.

Just steps from your cabin’s front door is Mackenzie Beach – one of the best in Tofino.

With a full kitchen, pool and hot tub, and being pet friendly, these cabins are the perfect place for a family getaway. 

Try to book as early as possible. With stellar reviews, these cabins get booked up fast. 

View listing on Booking.com here

Hobbit House

Location: 30 minutes east of Osoyoos

Truly the most magical place to stay in BC. Lord of the Rings fans can get a taste of middle earth at the appropriately named Second Breakfast Hideaway. 

This is as close to the Hobbiton movie set as you can get without going to New Zealand. No detail has been spared to fully immerse guests into this enchanted hobbit hole.

Surrounded by lakes, mountains, golf courses and only 30 minutes to Oliver (the wine capital of BC), you’ve got enough to see and do for weeks!

View availability here

P.S. Not sure what to do in the area?

Read more: Kelowna to Osoyoos: The Ultimate Okanagan Road Trip

Charming Peachland Suite

Location: Peachland

Overlooked by visitors to BC’s Okanagan Valley is the quaint town of Peachland.

It’s a small lakeside community perfectly halfway between Kelowna and Penticton, making it the perfect retreat for a wine country getaway.

This suite is beautifully decorated with antiques, includes your own private patio and a hearty homemade breakfast each morning. 

Attractions nearby:

• Minutes to dozens of wineries
• Okanagan Lake
• Hiking and waterfalls
• Rattlesnake Island

View listing on VRBO here

Read more: 19 Things to Do in the Okanagan (+ Hidden Gems and Unique Ideas)

Yogi’s Yurt Experience

Location: North Okanagan 

Yurt camping or glamping is all the rage right now – and you won’t find a yurt stay in BC more picturesque than this one built among a canopy of cedar trees.

Located just outside of Enderby, it’s exactly halfway between Calgary and Vancouver.

Enjoy coffee on your riverfront deck while you plan a day of adventures – choose from river floats, fishing, hiking, cycling, golf courses (7 within 30 minutes), wine tastings and more. 

View availability here . 

Family Farm Stay

Location: Brew Bay, close to Powell River

Come here with the family and spend a few days on a real farm!

Collect farm fresh eggs each morning, watch the goats being milked and learn about how cheese is made, go berry picking and visit the secret beach nearby.

Hot breakfast is included with your stay – pancakes, eggs, bacon, porridge, crepes, fresh cheese and more!

Book your stay here

Floating Bed & Breakfast (and dinner)

Location: Ucluelet inlet 

Welcome aboard The InnChanter – a heritage vessel built in the early 1900s and is now a floating lodge off the coast of Vancouver Island.

On board you’ll enjoy breakfast and dinner, float along the west coast, soak up rays on the sun deck, watch wildlife (bears, seals, wolves)and have a drink in the saloon.

Your stay also includes the use of kayaks, SUPs, fishing gear and rowboats. With only 5 rooms on board, this is one of the most intimate and unique places to stay in British Columbia. 

To get here, it’s a 35 minute drive from Tofino, or 3 hours from Nanaimo. 

• Hike along the Pacific Rim National Park trails
• Whale watching
• Salmon fishing
• Hot springs

View pricing and availability here

Read more reviews on Tripadvisor

Holten Heritage House

Location: Revelstoke

Some say this 100 year old Victorian-style home is haunted, but the mystery just adds to the historic appeal of this charmer.

You’re in for an amazing slumber in the king-sized canopy bed, complete with a chef-prepared breakfast the next morning. You’ll experience hospitality at its finest here.

Take a break from the boring chain hotels and opt for an intimately unique stay in the heart of Revelstoke.

Walk to downtown, enjoy the local cafes, several craft breweries and free outdoor events.

In the winter, you’re less than 10 minutes from Revelstoke Mountain Resort.

Read more : What to do in Revelstoke (19 Ideas For All Seasons)

View available rooms here

Airstream Among the Gardens

Location: Elk Lake, between Victoria and Sidney

Not only is this airstream trailer sleek, modern and funky, it’s a much cheaper alternative to getting a hotel.

A full kitchen and a BBQ on your private deck and garden patio await you for a wonderful stay near Victoria, BC.

Enjoy peaceful views of Elk Lake across from you, under the fairy lights.

Not only is this rental impeccably clean, it’s got perfect 5 star reviews – just see for yourself.

• Malahat SkyWalk
• Victoria Butterfly Gardens
• Wineries and Vineyards

Check prices here

Stormtroopers Cabin

This 4-season modern loft-style cabin is the perfect hub for an adventurous trip to Revelstoke.

It’s 5 minutes away from Revelstoke Mountain Resort – home to champagne powder for skiing and snowboarding.

Or in the summer, visit this gondola here for hiking and views, and then ride the mountain pipe coaster down the mountain!

Did I mention the private hot tub you can soak in after a day of exploring?

Read more: 7 Waterfalls Near Revelstoke For Every Age and Ability to Explore

West Coast Yurt 

Location: Sooke, Vancouver Island

The perfect west coast getaway is found just outside of Sooke in a cozy yurt.

Use this as your base camp for hiking the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, exploring nearby beaches, breweries/distilleries and best of all – no traffic noise!

Don’t miss the Shirley Delicious Cafe!

Book your stay here.

Former Park Ranger Cabin

Location: Skookumchuk, east Kootenays

This former national park warden cabin has been moved onto a serene rural property and is now a unique log cabin you can rent in the Kootenay region of BC.

This is the perfect place for a disconnected weekend or getaway. The cabin remains pretty much the same as its been since the 1900s when it was built. 

The kitchen inside a renovated school bus is yours to use, and the outdoor shower is a fun experience. 

If you’re on a budget and looking for a unique place for a couple of nights, this is a winner.

It’s also a great hub to visit the Lussier natural hot springs and many other hidden gems in the Canadian Rockies off the beaten path .  

Read more: 3 Natural Hot Springs in BC That You Can Visit in One Road Trip

See more info here . 

Haunted Hippie Cabin

Location: Nelson

Nelson is one of the most interesting places to visit in BC, and this haunted cabin is no exception. If you want to round out the full flower child experience in Nelson, this tiny cabin fits the bill. 

Read more about Nelson here: Hippies, Hikes and Hot Springs: 17 Things to Do in Nelson, BC

Eclectic Nelson Suite with Hot Tub

Enjoy your own self-contained suite, complete with a private backyard patio area, BBQ and private hot tub.

The décor and the plants are funky – perfectly complementary to a unique Nelson trip.

Start your day at a local coffee shop, go hiking or hit the beach, and finish off with a couple craft brewery visits before retreating to your hot tub to cap off the evening.

View prices for this cozy suite here.  

Ghost Town Getaway

Location: Zincton (Kootenays)

Go on an off grid adventure and stay in a solar powered hut.

Complete seclusion for day hikes, mountain biking and ATV riding and only 20 minutes away from British Columbia’s most fascinating ghost town – Sandon.

For two people, it’s only $60 per night. 

See availability here.

Betty Lou’s Library

Location: Cranbrook

This heritage home has been tastefully staged to resemble a Victorian-era library and reading nook, perfect for a girls getaway or an artist’s refuge. If you love all things pink and vintage, you’re going to want to book your stay. 

Crooked Tree Guest Suite

Location: Penticton/Naramata

Move over Napa Valley and Tuscany, this is a vineyard vacation for the bucket list. 

Perched above the dozens of wineries along the Naramata Bench, this is the perfect place to stay in BC for a wine vacation.

Enjoy stunning Okanagan Lake views from your 3 balconies or 1200 square feet of living space.

This suite is also pet friendly, and large enough for a group of 6. 

By staying here, you can visit over 100 wineries in the region. 

Or start with the 7 best Naramata wineries for the ultimate wine tasting trip.  

Check prices and availability here

Lavender Farm Cottage

Location: Naramata

In the middle of a lavender farm and fruit orchard, the setting of this cozy cottage is one of the most beautiful places to stay in BC.

Wake up each morning to the smells of ripening peaches with touches of lavender in the air. Enjoy the full kitchen (including BBQ), a large patio for Okanagan Lake views, strolls into town for coffee shops, wine tastings, lake swimming and endless sunsets. 

• Dozens of wineries
• KVR Trail for biking/hiking
• Three Mile Beach
• Naramata Falls

Book you stay here

Modern, Off-Grid Cabin

Location; Just outside of Penticton

This cabin built entirely of reclaimed material sits on the cliffs of the Okanagan Valley. You’ll have floor to ceiling panoramic views out your bedroom window, overlooking Penticton in the distance.

Other amenities include a steam room, spa-style bathroom, hammocks and a fire pit area.

Spend your day visiting the nearby wineries, and make it back in time to enjoy a stunning sunset with your new favorite bottle of Semillon (or any other fantastic white wine from this region). 

View availability here.

Blaylock Mansion

One of the most unique and romantic properties in BC, Blaylock Mansion was built in the early 1900s as a private retirement estate. This historic manor is now a boutique bed and breakfast which sits among 13 acres of manicured gardens that could rival those of Versailles. 

If you’re in search of somewhere to spend a romantic weekend in BC, Blaylock Mansion fits the bill. 

Learn more here.

Read reviews on Tripadvisor here .

A Volkswagen Bus in the Woods

Location: Golden

Here’s your chance to try out living the hippy van life. Or recreate Woodstock vibes in the heart of the east Kootenays.

If you’re on a road trip through British Columbia, or maybe driving from Vancouver to Calgary, this is a unique spot to rest for the night.

It’s one step above tent camping, but you’ve got access to a bathroom with full running water. Dogs are welcome!

• Canada’s highest suspension bridge
• Quaint downtown Golden
• Whitewater rafting on the kicking horse river
• Endless hiking trails

Check availability here

Read About More Things to Do in BC:

7 Naramata Winery Accommodations (for Unique Vineyard Stays)

23 Best Wineries in the Okanagan to Get Your Sip On

Visiting the Most Whimsical Place in Canada: The Enchanted Forest in BC

Discover Radium Hot Springs: My Favorite Canadian Hidden Gem

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Search for B.C.'s best small town: Interior region, Round 1

No area of b.c. has as many small towns as closely packed together as the province's interior.

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What makes for a successful small town ?

It's a question that is often answered emotionally or nostalgically, but can also be analyzed academically. 

"At a general level, all smaller communities are facing a range of changes," said Dr. Greg Halseth, a professor at the University of Northern B.C. and a Canada research chair in rural and small town studies. 

"They're facing economic changes, social changes, cultural changes, environmental changes."

Halseth said there were a number of factors in how well communities are able to thrive during these changes, including investing in infrastructure, a strategic economic plan, focusing on welcoming newcomers and assuring a diversity of housing and services for both the young and old. 

For some communities with aging infrastructure, housing challenges and limited resources, it could seem like a stiff challenge. But Halseth said there were a number of factors that will give small towns opportunities for success in the years to come. 

"People are looking for a rewarding job … they're also looking for a work-life balance and in small communities, you don't have any commuting," he said.

• Search for B.C.'s best small town: Vancouver Island region, Round 1

"They also want to get involved and make a difference in their community. They love to have access to the natural environment … and they want to live locally and live globally. So when we look at those things that people are looking for, we actually find that rural small-town places tick off all of those categories."

Who's top in the Interior?

The region of B.C. between Kamloops and the Coquihalla to the Alberta border arguably has more small towns than any other part of the province — but which is the best? 

The Search for B.C.'s Best Small Town is underway, and over the next seven weeks a friendly competition will determine (unofficially) which community reigns supreme.

We included every community in the province that was either:

• A municipality with under 12,000 people, based on the 2021 census.
• An unincorporated community, small island or Indigenous community with at least 500 people, based on estimates from the 2021 census.

A series of play-in votes were conducted last month to narrow the field down to 128 entries, leaving us with 32 towns that roughly fit into each of the following four areas of the province:

• Vancouver Island (voting on Tuesday).
• Southwest B.C. (voting on Wednesday).
• Interior (voting on Thursday).
• The North (voting on Friday).

Each day from Tuesday to Friday, there will be a new series of one-on-one votes in a different region. Each week, we'll narrow the field down — from 128 to 64, 64 to 32, and so on, until we have a champion. 

But we'll also use the Search for B.C.'s Best Small Town to explore the opportunities and challenges the majority of communities in this province face. 

Voting will take place until 10 p.m. PT each day, starting with the first 16 matchups for the Interior region that you'll find at the end of this article. 

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