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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to start your BC road trip?

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

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

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

Which are the best British Columbia road trip routes?

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

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

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

4 Epic British Columbia Road Trip Route Options

Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler Road Trip Details

Recommended length of road trip: 1-3 days

Route: Vancouver – Squamish – Whistler – Pemberton – Vancouver

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

Southern British Columbia Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Southern British Columbia Road Trip Details

Recommended length of road trip: 10 -14 days

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

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

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vancouver Island Road Trip

Recommended length of road trip: 3-5 days

Route: Victoria – Nanaimo – Tofino – Nanaimo

Estimated driving time: 7 hours, about 525 km

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

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

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Details

Recommended length of road trip: one or two weeks

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

Estimated driving time: 12.5 hours (1039 km)

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

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

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Tags: British Columbia Canada

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

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

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

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

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Planning the Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip

Kevin Miller / Getty Images 

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

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

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

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

Basic Rules of the Road

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

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

Planning the Logistics

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

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

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

Option 1: East of Vancouver Loop

Jenske Arts / FOAP / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

Option 2: Vancouver Island

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

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

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

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7 scenic drives through BC

Things to do

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

There are a multitude External Link Title of British Columbia road trips that will bring you from one amazing stop to another. Whether you want to hit the road for a few weeks with friends, or need to cram in as much scenery as possible into a few days, here are seven road trip routes that show off the best of BC.

1.  The Sea-to-Sky Highway

That old saying that it isn't about the destination but the journey, starts to make sense as you drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway External Link Title . This stretch of winding road between Vancouver and Whistler really earns its name. With the blue waters on one side, soaring cliffs on the other, and nothing but open skies ahead of you, you really feel like you've left civilisation in your rear view mirror. The Sea-to-Sky passes by waterfalls, rivers, canyons, and mountains, as well as several towns, so keep an eye out for those "Tourist Attraction" signs. Finally, if you want to learn the First Nations history of the area while you're at it, there are also seven interpretive kiosks External Link Title , designed in the shape of cedar-bark hats, where you can read stories about the region's first residents.

Starting point : Vancouver Length : 162 kilometres Time : < 1 day Essential stops : Britannia Beach, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, the Stawamus Chief, Squamish, Sea to Sky Gondola, Whistler Blackcomb.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

2. The Pacific Marine Circle Route

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

Starting point : Victoria Length : 255 kilometres Time : 1 to 3 days Essential stops : Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, BC Forest Discovery Centre, Totem Tour.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

3. Vancouver to Tofino

Rent an old Volkswagen bus, fill the roof with surfboards, and head out on a quintessential  BC road trip from Vancouver to Tofino External Link Title . This scenic drive brings you from the big city to the big waves. You'll leave Vancouver, hop on a ferry to Vancouver Island, and drive right through massive old growth forests on the way to the surf capital of Canada. Along the way you'll want to stop a half dozen times for incredible hikes, the sandy beaches that stretch on forever, and consistently breathtaking scenery.

Starting point : Vancouver Length : 300 kilometres Time : 1 to 3 days Essential Stops : MacMillan Provincial Park, Ucluelet Aquarium, the Wild Pacific Trail, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

4. The Coastal Circle Route

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

Starting point : Vancouver Length : 560 kilometres Time : 3 to 7 days Essential Stops : Butchart Gardens, Comox Air Force Museum, Historic Lund Hotel, Sechelt.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

5. The Mountains & Vineyards Circle Route

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

Starting point : Golden Length : 1260 kilometres Time : 7 to 10 days Essential Stops : Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Yoho National Park, Kimberley Alpine Resort, Columbia Gardens Vineyard & Winery.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

6. The Hot Springs Circle Route

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

Starting point : Cranbrook Length : 851 kilometres Time : 7 days Essential Stops : Fairmont Hot Springs, Kootenay National Park, Mount Revelstoke, Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

7. The Great Northern Circle Route

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

Starting point : Prince George Length : 3,190 kilometres Time : 10+ days Essential Stops : Muncho Lake Provincial Park, Boya Lake Provincial Park, Bear Glacier, Salmon Glacier, Fort St. James National Historic Site.  Click here for more on these stops External Link Title .

Ready for your drive through BC? For maps, directions and more routes to check out, visit the Hello BC website.

The Perfect British Columbia 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Logistics

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

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

The Route: Vancouver to Whistler (and beyond)

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

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

DAY 1: BRANDYWINE FALLS TO WHISTLER 

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

Brandywine Falls Trail to the Upper Viewing Platform 

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

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

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

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

How to get to the base of Brandywine Falls 

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Whistler

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

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

Splurge ($$$): Pan Pacific Whistler Village  

DAY 2: JOFFRE LAKES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DAY 3: NAIRN FALLS AND SLOQUET HOT SPRINGS

Stop 1: nairn falls.

Trail information:

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

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

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

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

Stop 2: Sloquet Hot Springs 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sloquet Hot Springs Information 

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

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

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

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

DAY 4: SQUAMISH 

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

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

Stop 1: Shannon Falls 

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

Stop 2: Sea to Sky Gondola

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

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

Stop 3: Squamish Chief

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

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

Squamish Chief Trail Information

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

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

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

Where to stay in Squamish

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

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

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

DAY 5: VANCOUVER

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

The answer is yes .

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Vancouver

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

Get this Vancouver Road Trip on Google Maps

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

How to Get Around for a British Columbia Road Trip

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

Best Time to Visit Vancouver

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

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

Extend Your British Columbia Road Trip

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

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

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

Always Remember to Leave No Trace

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

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

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

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

More for your Canada road trip

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

1-Day Yoho National Park Road Trip Itinerary

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

Pins for your Pinterest

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

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One comment.

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

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The 10 Best Road Trips in British Columbia, Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best road trips in British Columbia, Canada

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

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

The Sunshine Coast – Sunshine Coast Highway

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

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

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

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

The Okanagan Valley – Highway 97

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

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

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

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

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

The Coquihalla Highway – Highway 5N

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Island Drive – Highway 1 and Highway 19

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

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

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

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

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

The Sea-to-Sky Highway – Highway 99

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

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

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

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

The Glacier Drive – Highway 5 and Highway 16

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cathedral Drive – Highway 4

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

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

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

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

The Rocky Mountain Pass – Highway 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Pacific Rim – Highway 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bonus Road Trip – The Island Highway – Highway 19N

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

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

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

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

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

Final notes on the best road trips in BC

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

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

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

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A guide to planning a British Columbia road trip, Canada

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EXPLORE CANADA ON MY BLOG HERE

 www.explore-canada.co.uk #ExploreCanada

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

A guide to planning an epic British Columbia road trip…

Booking your flights….

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

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

Check out flights on  Skyscanner here.

Here are my  top tips for surviving long haul flights!

Getting a visa…

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

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

Visit the website and get your ETA here.

Deciding what kind of trip you’d like…

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

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

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

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

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

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

1-week British Columbia itineraries:

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

2-week British Columbia itineraries:

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

15 best things to do in British Columbia:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my  beginner’s guide to hiking here.

Here are 18 top tips for your first hike!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. You can go whale watching.

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

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

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

Here’s my guide to Vancouver Island.

Here’s how to have the best time in Vancouver

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

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

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

Canada is a mountain lover’s dream!

Here’s my complete guide to Banff in summer.

12. Poutine and maple syrup.

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

13. Wine regions in Okanagan Valley.

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

14. Squamish, ‘the adventure capital’.

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

15. The spirit bear is here!

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

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

Have you been on British Columbia road trip?

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

Love as always + happy adventuring,

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

I can’t do this without you.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

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

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

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8 of the most spectacular BC roadtrips

The Canadian province of British Columbia is big. Like, really big. Bigger than California. Bigger than New Zealand. Four times larger than the UK and Ireland. There’s a lot of room to move in BC, and even more to see and do for the intrepid traveler keen on great road trips in British Columbia. The provincial highway system is vast and well-maintained, perfect for planning journeys on two or four wheels. Whether you’ve got a day, a week or a month, we’re highlighting 8 of the best BC roadtrips in Canada’s most western province.

8 Spectacular BC Roadtrips

1. sea to sky highway.

Vancouver to Whistler: 162 kilometers

One of the best drives in the world, the Sea to Sky Highway 99 shows off coastal British Columbia at its absolute finest. This beautiful roadway between Vancouver and Whistler begins in downtown Vancouver. It winds its way through Stanley Park, West Vancouver and Horseshoe Bay. Then along the deep blue Howe Sound fjord, past waterfalls, provincial parks, temperate rainforests and attractions. The Sea to Sky drive makes for a perfect day trip from Vancouver.

Stop for a visit and pan for gold at the Britannia Beach Mine Museum . Admire the spray of Shannon Falls, then take a ride up the Sea to Sky Gondola north of Squamish for an interpretive hike. Experience Indigenous culture with a First Nations tour guide. The views of Howe Sound, the Stawamus Chief, and coastal mountain peaks from the suspension bridge and viewing deck are unforgettable. 

Whistler’s small-town mountain vibe offer something for everyone in every season. Whether it’s epic skiing and riding in winter , or hiking, mountain biking or swimming in Lost Lake in summertime . And there’s no shortage of fine or casual dining for romantic dinners or family feasts whether it’s in Whistler Village or in Creekside .

Note: You can do the Sea to Sky Highway drive return-trip in one day.

Use the map below to search for hotel and short-term rental options

Bonus Drive: Duffey Lake Road 

Pemberton to Lillooet: 99 kilometers

Continue your British Columbia road trip past Whistler to Pemberton and head north along the beautiful scenery of the Duffey Lake Road . Driving from Pemberton to Lillooet on the Duffey Lake Road is well worth the journey. This winding open road passes through mountainous terrain and is part of the Discovery Coast Circle Route . The short drive climbs through narrow canyons overlooking rivers, past mountains, lakes and waterfalls. 

Popular attractions include Nairn Falls and  Joffre Lakes Provincial Parks, the latter having some of the busiest hiking trails and park areas in the province during summer. The road includes a few pullouts for wildlife viewing and photography but note that they’re too small to accommodate large vehicles like RVs.

2. Pacific Marine Circle Route

Victoria Loop 255 km

Vancouver Island’s Pacific Marine Circle Route is one of the most spectacular BC roadtrips. It combines the best of urban city life with the wild beauty of the Island’s southwest coast, and the rolling hills and lakes of the picturesque Cowichan Valley.

Moving west from the provincial capital Victoria , the route takes in the geologically significant Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, then winds along the sandy beaches fronting the Pacific Ocean. Stop to see the action at the surfing beaches of China, Sombrio and Jordan River. You’ll also pass the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and Port Renfrew , the trail head for the famous West Coast Trail.

While this BC road trip route can be done in one long day, we recommend an overnight stay in one of the beachfront cottages at Wild Renfrew. Have an outdoor adventure exploring the tide pools and sea life at Botanical Beach in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park. Then head off-road to explore Big Lonely Doug and fellow giant fir and cypress trees in the emerald rainforest of Upper Avatar Grove. 

The scenic drive inland reveals rolling hills on route to Cowichan Lake, and attractions that include the BC Forest Discovery Centre, a self-guided First Nations Totem Tour Walk, and the vibrant and walkable downtown of Duncan. 

Make a pit stop at the seaside village of Cowichan Bay. Enjoy its small-town charms, including farm markets, the Wild Coast Perfumery, ice cream shops, many arts and crafts galleries and wine tasting at Blue Grouse Winery. 

The return home to Victoria can include a ferry diversion to Brentwood Bay from Mill Bay. And do stop and smell the roses, tulips and scores of other flowers and plants at renowned (and dog-friendly) Butchart Gardens.

3. Sunshine Coast Route

Vancouver to Lund: 198 km

The Sunshine Coast is less than 30 km (18 miles) from downtown Vancouver but the ferry ride to get there from the Lower Mainland sets the stage for what will be a leisurely tour of this local coastal landscape.

The entire drive to the end point of Highway 101 at Lund can be done in a day and involves two ferries, the first from Vancouver and second up the coast at Earls Cove. However, the pace of life on the Sunshine Coast invites travelers to savor the journey and enjoy its scenic drives with views of the Salish Sea, Texada, Lasqueti and Vancouver Islands.

Stop in to some of the quaint coastal towns like Sechelt, Secret Cove or Halfmoon Bay on your way to a second ferry at Earls Cove. Before departing, detour to Egmont and hike to Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park to see an incredible natural phenomenon. Here, the Sechelt Rapids surge through the Narrows during a 3 m (10 ft) tide change twice daily. The change causes 200 billion gallons of water to explode upwards into standing waves and be sucked into churning whirlpools. This is a popular for experienced kayakers and surfers, and those who enjoy aquatic thrills.

Continuing north, the funky and historic town of Powell River awaits exploration. Sample the delights of BC’s Ale Trail with a craft brew at Townsite Brewing, or stop in for delicious pasta and pizza dishes at Culaccino Modern Italian. The road ends in tiny, historic Lund for a stay at the Lund Resort at Klah Ah Men. Don’t miss the cinnamon buns at Nancy’s and terrific fish and chips and amazing sunsets at the Boardwalk Restaurant before continuing a marine journey into Desolation Sound.

4. The Fraser Valley 

Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs: 122 km

Make the journey your destination and take the road less travelled into the Fraser Valley along Highway 7. This is one of the more relaxed and scenic BC roadtrips. From Vancouver, the route heads eastward towards Harrison Hot Springs , following the mighty Fraser River. The road winds past the crowded suburbs of Coquitlam and Maple Ridge, then opens up to a sprawling landscape of farms, forests and the smaller communities of Agassiz, Harrison Mills, and Harrison Hot Springs.

Discover charming cottages and an English-style manor house at  Rowena’s on the River , nestled along the Harrison River. Go back in time to BC’s rural past at the  Kilby Historic Site at Harrison Mills. Then venture to the village of Harrison Hot Springs in search of the elusive Sasquatch and the opportunity to soak in the healing mineral hot springs public pool. 

Stay at the Harrison Beach Hotel and enjoy views of Harrison Lake. Walk or bike the Lakeside Trail, pop into the Sasquatch Museum, and take a Circle Farm Tour of the region. Take a hike the spirit Trail or Heritage Walk, then dine on local food at these popular favorites, Muddy Waters Restaurant, Morgan’s Bistro or the German cuisine-inspired Black Forest Restaurant.

Return home via a different route, via Highway 1, the Trans-Canada Highway.

5. Powder Highway 

Cranbrook Loop: 1,104 km

This scenic highway in eastern British Columbia showcases the Kootenay Rockies in their winter finery. The  Powder Highway along BC Highway 95A connects eight major ski resorts, small mountain towns and hot springs. Of course, the best time to experience this roadtrip is during the winter months – the entire region is a wonderland for skiers and snow lovers.

Winding through mountain towns like Cranbrook, Nelson, Revelstoke, Golden , and Fernie, the Powder Highway is all about accessing the eight major ski resorts . These include; Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Panorama Mountain Resort, Kimberly Alpine Resort, Fernie Alpine Resort, and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Many of these resorts and mountain towns have access to the added bonus of hot springs (see below). These are the perfect après ski activity.

Few travelers have the entire winter to explore every mountain resort in depth, so it’s best to plan a trip to this powder paradise in sections over several winter seasons.

6. Hot Springs Route

Cranbrook Loop: 850 km

Starting in Cranbrook, in eastern British Columbia, the 850 km Hot Springs Route shares similarities of route and location to the winter sports-focused Powder Highway (see above). Driving the entire scenic loop through Creston, Nakusp, Revelstoke, Golden and can take seven days if you choose to stop and soak in the seven hot springs through the BC Canadian Rockies. Which of course, you must. I mean, seven days, seven hot springs, right? 

In addition to hot springs like Fairmont, Radium and Ainsworth Hot Springs , this route also showcases incredible mountain wildlife, Kootenay National Park, Mount Revelstoke, and the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area. Stop in the village of New Denver on Slocan Lake, to visit the Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre. This museum and National Historic Site is dedicated to the history of the internment of Japanese Canadians during World War II.

7. Wine Country Route

Osoyoos to Vernon: 176 km

Discover the fertile Okanagan valley, home to British Columbia’s largest wine region and only desert. This Wine Country Route drive along Highway 97 showcases some of the warmest lakes in the country. Rolling desert hills dotted with wineries and neat rows of green vines.

Starting in Osoyoos, enjoy a refreshing dip in BC’s warmest body of water, Lake Osoyoos. Then tour the First Nations Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre . Pass rows of symmetrical grapevines and pull in for some wine tastings at Rust, Culmina, Checkmate, vinAmité and Road 13 along the the Golden Mile Bench between Osoyoos and Oliver. Be sure to stop at local fruit stands along the way. They’re great spots for snacks and seasonal produce like cherries, apricots and peaches during summer.

Keep a sharp eye out for the legendary Ogopopo in Lake Okanagan on route to Kelowna . Enjoy more wine tastings at Cedar Creek Winery or St. Hubertus. Sample craft cocktails and pizza at Jack’s Pizza, and hand-crafted artisanal gelato at QB Gelato . Vernon and Lake Country await at the top end of this route. Vernon has a walkable downtown, can’t-miss donuts at Ratio Coffee & Pastry, and many outdoor activities. Try paddle boarding and wake boarding on Kalamalka Lake . 

8. Northern BC Alaska Highway

Prince George to Whitehorse: 1,620 km

Prepare for epic vistas of lakes, trees, mountains and wildlife along BC Highway 97, better known as the Alaska Highway . This feat of engineering winds its way north, linking small towns and vast landscapes as one of the ultimate BC roadtrips. 

Starting in Prince George, the gateway to Northern BC, the road showcases the true vastness of British Columbia. Attractions include Mile 0 at Dawson Creek, the Sign Post Forest at Watson Lake, countless lakes and rivers. There’s Stone Mountain and Muncho Lake Provincial Parks, rolling hills, the northern Rocky Mountains, and towns like Fort St. John and Fort Nelson. 

Stop at Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park to camp and soak in the nearby hot pools. They’re the second largest in Canada. As always, keep watch for the spectacular wildlife, including moose, wolves, eagles, bighorn sheep, grizzly and black bears.

The highway crosses into the Yukon at Watson Lake, where travelers continue towards the territory capital of Whitehorse. This former gold rush town hosts a variety of arts, culture and natural attractions. Some of these include the MacBride Museum, the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, Miles Canyon basalt cliffs, the restored S.S. Klondike sternwheeler, and the Takhini Hot Pools.

Check out my friends’ Mike and Anne’s awesome road trip adventures if you’re looking to continue north for an Alaska road trip .

One last tip: If you’re driving a rental car, be sure to confirm with the rental car agency that you’re able to travel on your intended routes.

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Do you have a favorite driving route in British Columbia? Share it below.

Photo Credits: Claudia Laroye, Destination British Columbia

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BC’s 5 Best Road Trip Routes

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

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

The Sea-to-Sky Highway

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

Road Trip Highlights

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

Road Trip Route

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

Road Trip Length

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

Things to Note

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

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

Vancouver Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mountains & Vineyards

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

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

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

Hot Springs

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

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

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

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

Northern Lights

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start planning your road trip getaway today.

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

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

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

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Ultimate BC Family Road Trip – Your Adventure Packed Guide For 2024

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Are you looking to plan the ultimate BC family road trip? 

British Columbia is one of the best places in the world, if you ask me. I may be biased as my family headed out on a road trip to explore the province when I was just five years old and we never went back (no really, we sent movers and never returned home!). Now that I’ve called BC home for over 35 years, I can tell you that it is a unique place, designed for those who love outdoor adventure, pristine scenery, and a vibrant food and culture scene. 

So if you’re looking to plan your own incredible BC family road trip you’ve come to the right place! With a province that is 364,764 square miles (that’s almost four times the size of Great Britain), you can spend a week or a couple of months exploring, so we’ve broken it down into our most visited spots to help you design an itinerary that suits your family and your timeline. 

This itinerary will take you from crashing waves on Vancouver’s west coast, traversing through the mountainous regions in Whistler, searching for gold in Northern BC, to pristine warm lakes in the Okanagan, we’ve put together the ultimate BC family road trip and now we want you to plan your own excursion! Take a portion of our adventure or spend a whole month exploring. 

Here are the four regions we have split this article up into for you to highlight some amazing British Columbia family vacations: 

• Vancouver Island Road Trip 
• Vancouver Coast & Mountains Road Trip 
• Northern BC Road Trip 
• Thompson Okanagan Road Trip 

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links from which I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a booking. Money goes to help fund Adventure Awaits and keep more informational and educational articles coming your way!

Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful regions in our province, with 3400 kilometers of coastline, old-growth forests, mid-island mountains, and an abundance of small towns inviting you to slow down and embrace your stay. Residents are a proud bunch, and many share a passion for the environment and sustainability. The communities and experiences you will have will reflect this passion and you too may leave with a deeper appreciation for untouched nature. The arts and culture scene is also thriving on the island too, with notable places like the mural covered town of Chemainus. With over 70 murals for visitors to experience, Chemainus is definitely worth stopping and visiting.   

We recommend that you start your road trip off in the Ucluelet & Tofino Region to allow you to truly escape and experience the rugged West Coast, and then work your way back to the east side of Vancouver Island visiting places like Parksville and Victoria.

Ucluelet & Tofino, BC

Choosing where to stay in the Ucluelet and Tofino region is a difficult thing to do as there are so many different types of accommodations and wonderful places to stay. On our big BC family road trip we actually opted to stay at all three, doing 2 nights at each of these places, giving three very different Westcoast experiences. Choose one as a basecamp or double up like we did:

Beachfront Campsite – Wya Point Resort, Ucluelet

Book your stay at Wya Point Resort in Ucluelet here!

Oceanfront Luxury Hotel – Blackrock Resort, Ucluelet

If you’re like my husband and prefer a luxury experience and a warm bed over a tent then the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort may be the perfect fit. Built into the black rocks of the Ucluelet shores it was designed as a masterpiece, as if created by Mother Nature herself. The building even arches over a natural inlet where the ocean waves crash into the rocky shore and you can stand inside to experience the power of the mighty ocean (without ending up soaking wet!). 

Once you’re in your hotel room you’ll be greeted by a stunning view, a large kitchenette, and fresh linens that are perfect for cozying into after a warm hot shower. We swooned over the views and even left our doors open at night so we could fall asleep to the sound of the waves. During the day we took in local hikes, wandering along the 8km Wild Pacific Trail that winds right through the property. Lazy afternoons were spent in the oceanside hot tubs watching the waves crash into the huge black rocks and sunsets were enjoyed on the beach, me taking photos while the kids and dad skipped rocks into the sea.

Book your stay at The Black Rock Oceanfront Resort here!

Oceanside Cabins – Long Beach Lodge Resort, Tofino

Nestled in behind the property’s main lodge is a series of cabins at the Long Beach Lodge Resort . Perfect for a family, these two-story cabins have two bedrooms, with either two kings, or a king and two doubles, a pull-out couch in the living room and a full kitchenette so you can cook your meals.

But the best part? Well, that’s easy, each cabin comes with its own hot tub outside the master on the main floor. My husband and I enjoyed morning coffee out in the forest before the kids woke up and the kids, they preferred an evening dip before bed. This property is one of my favourites in Tofino and one our family has returned to again and again. Be sure to check out our full feature article about Long Beach Lodge Resort here .

Book your stay at the Long Beach Lodge Resort here!

While visiting the Ucluelet and Tofino region there are a lot of excellent outdoor adventures to explore including hiking, biking, beach combing the long sandy beaches, eating at one of the great restaurants in the towns of Tofino or Ucluelet, or just hanging out at your base camp and soaking it all in. 

When we visit the area we like to do a combination of a few things, being sure to balance out the free activities and explorations along with some paid adventures.

• Bike the new pathway called ʔapsčiik t̓ašii, that connects Tofino to Ucluelet with a 24 km (one way) multi-use trail. 
• Hike one of the many hiking trails in and around Tofino and Ucluelet, All Trails is a great resource. Fun find: If you hike Pettinger Point look on the boardwalk for a board that was gifted to me that says “Adventure Awaits.” 
• Spend a day (or week) at the beach. With 13 amazing beaches to choose from, each offering its own bit of magic and something to explore, pack a picnic, sunscreen, and beach essentials and take the family out for a day in the sand. Some of my favourite days have been spent wandering the beaches in Tofino, with no expectations, no schedules, just sand between my toes and family by my side. 
• Get your Parks Canada Xplorers program at the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre (open 7 days a week from mid-May to mid-September and Saturday and Sundays only from mid-October to mid-May).

Here are my two favourite family-friendly adventures that are worth investing (and even getting up early) for!

Surfing In Tofino

A trip to Ucluelet and Tofino isn’t complete without going surfing. With a rich community culture of surfing, it is one of the quintessential experiences to have and a great way to connect with mother ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, I recommend taking lessons with Tofino Surf School . The family lessons were a perfect way for all of us to learn the sport, while my kids got all the support they needed to have a successful day. The only problem? My son is officially hooked on the sport and keeps asking to go back! (A great problem to have).

Mom Tips: 1. Go surfing! Some Moms are nervous to try but the sense of accomplishment and adventure when surfing with the kids is worth it!  2. Bring warm clothes / towels to change into after surfing.  3. If you want a luxurious surfing experience check out the Surf Club at the Long Beach Lodge in Cox Bay. They offer great lessons and afterwards you can hop right from your wet suit into a hot tub, to warm up and recount your surfing experiences!

Boat Tour to the Tofino Hot Springs

If you want an adventure that has it all, this is it. You’ll start off with a morning on the ocean, hike to a natural hot spring, and (fingers crossed) spend your afternoon watching humpbacks, all in one day I might add! Can a visit to Tofino’s West Coast get any better than this?

This incredible adventure can be done with Ocean Outfitters. This Tofino based tour company has a reputation for quality and a spirit of adventure. With so many tours to choose from it was hard to decide which one to choose, but we chose the Tofino Whale Watching Hot Springs Tour as it included a 1.5 hour boat ride up the inside passage where we were able to see wildlife (otters, eagles, bears, and whales) and the hot springs tour. It was a long six-hour adventure-packed day that our whole family absolutely loved. At each point in the day, one of us said, “This is the best day ever.” Here are some highlights from our trip: Hiking, to Hot Springs, and watching Humpbacks! 

Tofino to Horne Lake Caves Park

After spending a few days in Tofino and Ucluelet it’s time to head East across Vancouver Island and start to explore the other regions of this beautiful area. I recommend stopping in Port Alberni to restock your groceries and essentials then stop at this next point of interest before you carry on to Horne Lake Caves.

Located south of Port Alberni is Cathedral Cove (MacMillan Park). I’ll be honest, when we first drove through my family was fully engaged in road trip mode and didn’t want to get out of the car, but I quickly told them to unbuckle and come explore with me. 

After being in the 800 year old growth forest they quickly realized that this was a place worth stopping at. With huge towering trees overhead, we meandered down the dirt path, pointing out each tree at a time. The trail meanders around to the biggest tree, an 800-year-old red cedar, which our family could barely wrap our arms around the FRONT of, let alone the whole tree!  MacMillan Park is a part of a Coastal Western Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone, and is definitely worth getting out of the car for! 

Traveler Tip: To visit once isn’t enough and we now stop every time we drive by. I’ve had the opportunity to walk through the forest in all seasons, with the winter being especially beautiful as the trees were covered in snow.

Next Stop – Horne Lake Caves

If you’re in the Horne Lake Region a trip to see Horne Lake Caves is an absolute must! We took part in a guided tour that provides you access to caves that are not open to the public. Whether you’ve got little kids (minimum 5 years) or bigger ones the whole family will love this underground eco tour. Fun fact: After we did this tour many of our followers went and did the tour and all came back with glowing reviews as well. 

Note: I don’t typically like smaller spaces but was okay with this tour as the guides moved slowly, used lights, and there was always an easy exit route. 

After spending a day (or a few days like we did) in Horne Lake Caves Park, it’s time to continue on, with your next stop being Parksville. Before you head to Parksville though I recommend you stop at this next point of interest.

The town of Coombs has a unique collection of artisan markets, eateries, shops, and The Old Country Market that has everything and anything you could imagine, including their famous Goats on the Roof! From specialty food items to artisan crafts, to toys for the kids, it’s a feast for the eyes and a place where you can wander.

Traveler Tip: Go hungry and give yourself time for lunch and touring around. From surf shops to ice cream eateries to massive donuts, it’s a destination all in one little goat centric town.

Next Stop – Parksville, BC

Imagine a resort where 1970’s classic family summer retreat meets 2024 family fun. Upon check-in kids are offered their own key cards so they can roam the Tigh-Na-Mara Resort property. Their very active kids club had over 40 scheduled activities for kids including arts and crafts, service projects, sports, yoga classes, scavenger hunts, and unscheduled yet supervised play like tennis, playground time, and even babysitting including dinner and a movie. It’s clear who the focus of the resort goes to…it’s kids! 

With spa bungalows, rustic cabins, studios and oceanfront rooms, this mix of accommodation types means there is the perfect space for everyone. Add in amenities including a pool, hot tub, tennis court, hockey, basketball, badminton, volleyball, campfire pit, giant chess, bocce, and the world class grotto spa and you have a basecamp for family summer fun! 

Book your stay at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Seaside Spa Resort here!

The beach town comes alive in the summer with the focus on family fun being a priority. While you could spend the whole day at Tigh-Na-Mara and going in between their resort amenities and the long sandy beach, there are a few great places in town that you should check out while you’re there. From mini golf, the community playground, the sandcastles, and more, check out our list of family-friendly things to do in Parksville here.

After spending some fun family time at Tigh-Na-Mara and the beautiful little town of Parksville it’s time to head to your final destination on your Vancouver Island portion of the road trip, Victoria! On your way check out these points of interest.

Central Cowichan is an area that needs to be explored. From educational experiences including the BC Forestry Museum in Duncan, to walking alongside history with the Chemainus Murals, to strolling across an iconic trestle bridge, there’s so much to explore in Cowichan!

One family favourite was posing with the world’s largest hockey stick in Duncan!

Next Stop – Victoria

The Westin Bear Mountain Resort is located in a resort community about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria. Our children loved “The best pool ever” and visited it daily, while my husband and I swooned over the poolside bar and restaurant. From luxury food to family-friendly amenities, to huge soaker tubs to sit back and reflect on the day, our stay at Bear Mountain was the perfect way to wrap up the Vancouver Island portion of our trip.

The 30 minute proximity to downtown Victoria makes heading into the city a short trip, and an absolutely must for visiting our province’s capital city.

Book your stay at The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa here!

Eagle Wing Tours – Whale & Wildlife Watching

If you’ve never seen whales in their natural habitat then you haven’t lived. Okay I’m being a bit over dramatic, but it really is one of the most magical experiences you can have.  I’ve been fortunate enough to see whales many times in my life and it always brings me to tears to see such a magnificent animal, living right here on our West Coast.

Eagle Wing Tours is a locally owned and operated company that has been sharing its passion for the Salish Sea with guests for 24 years. The reason I love them the most is because they are leaders in the industry, prioritizing conservation and sustainability all while creating life-changing guest experiences through educational tours.

While you head out on the water to see whales, while you are there you’ll get to see so much more. Otters, seals, sea lions, eagles, grey whales, dolphins and many other incredible creatures call the Pacific Northwest home and with Eagle Wing you’ll get to see them first hand. Here’s one of the first articles we ever wrote, that my kids actually took the lead on sharing their candid experience, check it out .

Malahat SkyWalk

Only 15 minutes from Bear Mountain resort is the Malahat SkyWalk . Located 2350 meters above sea level, you’ll be invited to walk amongst the old-growth forest and head out onto a skywalk where on a clear day you can take in the 360-degree panoramic views. And when you’re done… walk down or embrace your inner child and slide down the centre of the spiral, squealing optional!

“Wheeeeee!” I couldn’t contain my ear-to-ear smile as I went down the 20-meter-high spiral slide… a four-second ride that reminded us that we’re never too old to have fun!

Get your ticket for the Malahat SkyWalk here!

Downtown Victoria is one of the most beautiful cities in the whole wide world (that’s my official quote on the subject!). An oceanside capital, you’ll walk past the historic Romanesque Revival style architecture of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings as well as the world renowned Fairmont Empress Hotel on one side of downtown Victoria all while looking out over the bustling inner harbour where water taxies, sea planes, and seals all call the water home. Stop at one of the amazing eateries (with lots of gluten free options) or watch the sunset on a ocean view patio. With beautiful hanging baskets, bicycles all around, and a mix of warm sun and good energy, a day in Victoria is quintessential to a visit to Vancouver Island.

City of Vancouver

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver – Downtown Vancouver

If you are looking for an iconic and historical place to stay while visiting Vancouver, I highly suggest you book a stay at The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Built in 1939 and known as the “Castle in the City,” this hotel puts you right in the center of downtown Vancouver, making it the perfect basecamp for Vancouver adventures. With both rooms and suites available, there is room for the whole family.

Book your stay The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver here!

Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier – North Vancouver

Wanting to stay close to downtown Vancouver, but in a quieter part of town that is close to the mountains? The Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier is a quick 20 minute Seabus (walk on public transit ferry) ride to downtown Vancouver and a 10 minute drive from the local mountains. This hotel features incredible views of the Vancouver harbour, is walking distance to a variety of local shops and eateries and has an indoor pool, steam room, sauna and hot tubs, making this hotel a family favourite.

Book your stay at the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier here!

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Nestled amongst the West Coast rainforest in North Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is one of the most popular attractions for visitors and locals alike, inviting you to come and check out their four main attractions: 

• Suspension Bridge – The 450 foot suspension bridge has welcomed millions of visitors since 1889. Don’t rush over the bridge, be sure to check out the phenomenal views of the old growth forest and the Capilano River below. 
• Treetops Adventure – Once you’ve trekked across the bridge you can get a really cool perspective of a thriving coastal rainforest from viewing platforms and seven suspension bridges that are positioned high up in the trees.
• Cliffwalk – Back entrance side of the park there’s the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway that clings to the granite cliff high above the Capilano Canyon.
• Rainforest Explorers Program – If you’re traveling with kids this is a great program to take part in. This interactive program is self-guided and allows kids of all ages to explore and learn about the rainforest. You’ll start at the Treehouse, which marks the very beginning of Treetops Adventure, and receive a booklet to fill out as you make your way through the rainforest, engaging in fun activities and puzzles. Before leaving the park, collect your own Rainforest Explorer’s reward before heading back across the Suspension Bridge!

Travelers Tip: If you are looking for an excellent souvenir shop, the store at Capilano Suspension Bridge really is one of my favourites in the city. I love it so much for it’s high quality Canadian items that I often will go there to source Christmas presents or gifts for clients. For more information, visit their website .

Purchase your tickets for the Capilano Suspension Bridge & Park here!

Grouse Mountain

Another favourite for visitors is to head up to Grouse Mountain, also known as the “Peak of Vancouver.” Grouse really comes alive in the summer where the mountain top activities are plentiful and you’ll get more than just a great view! 

Once you arrive at the base of Grouse Mountain you’ll take one of the gondolas up on a 8 minute ride to the top the mountain. During your ride you’ll notice that most people are looking south out over the incredible view of the Vancouver skyline that pops into sight within minutes of leaving the lower tower. If you can hear between in the ooohs and awes you’ll be able to hear commentary sharing insights on the region and what you’re looking out over. 

Up on top of the mountain you can head out to the south side of the Chalet where you can take in more scenic views out over Vancouver. Then its time for your mountain top adventures to begin! I would check the schedule so that you can plan out what you want to see so you don’t miss anything! Here are some of the highlights on what to expect:

• Lumberjack Show: One of my favourites is checking out the very Canadian sport of being a lumberjack. From log rolling to pole climbing, this interactive show and demonstration is really fun. I used to take my kids every summer and it was definitely a highlight.
• Grinder and Coola: Grinder and Coola are two resident rescued grizzly bears who were orphaned at a young age and were not able to be rehabilitated into nature. Grouse offered to create a large open (but fenced) area for them to live out their life, and you can go and see them playing in the water, climbing trees, wresting, and chasing squirrels. They have also been a big research project and have things like a camera in their den so you can watch them hibernate through the winter! 
• Birds of Prey Show: Another popular show is the birds of prey show where you can get up close with birds of prey and learn more about them and their roles in our environment.
• Ziplining and Ropes Course: There are other activities up on the mountain including ziplining, and a ropes course that are available for you to explore. Traveler Tip: Sunset in the summer up at Grouse is undoubtedly one of my favourite ways to end the day. I recommend either getting a window side seat at the Altitudes Restaurant or if you’re looking for a fine dinning experience visit The Observatory for a first class meal.

While there are lots of amazing places to explore in BC, no stop to the province is complete without a visit to our beautiful city, while these are my top things to see and do, be sure to check out my full list of favourite Vancouver highlights in this article .

Next Stop – Squamish, BC

Squamish has declared itself the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of Canada”, and rightfully so. Situated at the end of the Howe Sound Inlet, this mountain meets ocean town is a place where outdoor adventure seekers thrive. From kayaking, sailing, scuba diving and paddling, to rock climbing, hiking, biking and camping, Squamish has a thousand adventures in every direction.

The Executive Suites Hotel & Resort in the Garibaldi Highlands area of Squamish is the perfect basecamp for all of your families adventures. Featuring full kitchens in every room, one & two bedroom suites (perfect for families), an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub as well as a fitness centre, this hotel has it all. We love that it is in close proximity to all of the outdoor experiences that Squamish has to offer!

Book your stay at the Executive Suites Hotel & Resort here!

Sea to Sky Gondola

Driving down the Sea to Sky Highway, on the right hand side before you arrive in Squamish, is your first stop, the Sea to Sky Gondola. This experience takes you from sea level to 2900 feet in the mountain top sky, where incredible views of Howe Sound and the Vancouver Coastal mountains are on display to the West, while the East has you looking down over the mountain town of Squamish and all the way up into the spectacular mountain range towards Whistler.

While you’re there be sure to check out a few essentials including:

• Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge – If you love a little adrenaline rush, there’s nothing like a suspension bridge to get your heart racing! The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge at the top of the Sea To Sky Gondola is approximately 100 meters long (300+ feet) and looks down onto the forest and out onto the Salish Sea.
• Spirit Trail Glacier Lookout – The spirit trail is a short 400 meter trail that takes you around the back loop back to the kids playground and summit lodge all while stopping at some pretty incredible lookouts along the way.
• Panorama Trail & Chief Lookout –  Located across from the Spirit Trail is the entrance to the Panorama Trail, which is not to be missed! If you’ve spent any time on Instagram researching the Squamish Gondola you’ll have certainly come across the iconic Chief and Squamish Valley Viewing Platform which is arguably one of the most spectacular places to view the scenery at the Sea To Sky Gondola. The trail is 1.6 km and takes between 30 – 60 minutes to complete with minimal elevation gain.
• Basecamp Adventures – The Summit Lodge is a great place to grab a meal and soak in the views below. From sweet treats for the kids, to healthy sit down meals there are lots of options for food. Be sure to check out their schedule to learn about special events and activities that may be happening during your visit.

To learn more and plan your own adventure check out our extensive guide on the Sea To Sky Gondola here !

Purchase your Sea to Sky Gondola Admission Ticket Here!

The Chief Hike

If you are looking for a challenging hike that will take you to new heights, gear up and tackle the world-famous Squamish Chief Hike. Let me be clear, this hike is not for the faint of heart, it is a challenging intermediate trail but one that boasts an incredible sense of accomplishment as well as stunning views out over Howe Sound. You can opt to do the first peak or if you want a longer route tackle all three peaks which make for a full day adventure. Check out more information from our last trip up to the Chief here.

River Rafting

Squamish is surrounded by ocean and rivers, and heading out on the water with a river rafting tour is a fun way to get into the backcountry and explore Squamish. On our trip we were expecting to head out on an epic adventure with a focus on the outdoors and nature but got so much more out of the experience than I ever could have imagined. From pushing outside my comfort zone, to learning new skills, to being vulnerable, our river rafting experience was everything you can ask for in an adventure, and more! Check out Rugged Rafting Princesses –and plan your own epic adventure. 

After visiting Squamish, it’s time to head up to one of Canada’s most famous ski towns, Whistler, BC. Whistler was host to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and really meets at the intersection of the quintessential ski town village and outdoor mecca of year round adventures! With so much to do and explore it’s hard to pick out my favs, but coming up are some to start your planning and then you can customize your itinerary to your families specific interests as well as time. 

Traveler Tip: Some families plan to stop for the day in Whistler, and all of them regret it! Anything less than 2 days in the village isn’t enough and I find for your first time to the region you’ll want to spend at least 3 or four days. 

Next BC Family Road Trip Stop – Whistler

The Aava Whistler Hotel is my favourite basecamp when looking for a hotel in Whistler. Perched next to the Village you get the benefits of being steps from the village stroll without the noise of the village outside your window. The hotel was built in 1987 and went through a major renovation in 2009, allowing it to offer big rooms with modern decor and amenities that other hotels just haven’t embraced yet. For example the whole family is welcome and dogs are treated like royalty upon arrival. There’s a ski valet in the winter and a bike valet in the summer. And you can rent GoPro cameras for your adventures right from the front desk! They really do have it all, be sure to check out our experience at Aava here .

Book your stay at the Aava Whistler Hotel here!

As a Travel Writer, we get to visit a lot of places, but every summer I have a non negotiable tradition that I take the kids up to Whistler for a weekend of Summer adventure seeking in our favourite mountain town. Whether it’s strolling in the village, mountain biking, hiking, or just hanging out at the lake, there’s so much to do that no two trips are the same. Now that my kids are getting older, they love having the freedom to stroll around on their own, taking in the shops and planning out their day. 

Some of the most family friendly things to do in Whistler in the Summer are: 

Ziplining in Whistler

Whether you are six years old or sixty years old, everyone is encouraged to embrace their inner child while flying through the air on a zipline! I took my daughter and my mom on a tour and it was perfect family fun, with accessible trails that connect you from one zipline to the next, finishing off with a zipline that took you across the whole canyon! Check out this article for pictures and more insights on what to expect when taking your family.

Book your Whistler Zipline Adventure here!

Mountain Biking

Whistler has a first class bike park that is accessible to riders of all levels. Now I’ll be honest, if this is your first time mountain biking I wouldn’t attempt the trails without a guide. Having a guide ensures that you can learn the sport and evolve your riding on the proper trails, resulting in everyone in your group having a great time. Whistler has a lot of great bike shops, like Premium Bike Rentals which is actually owned and operated by a good friend of mine (so head there and know you’ll be taken great care of!). Whistler has a variety of lessons for you to choose from so check out the program that best suits your family.

Book your Guided Mountain Biking Tour here!

Grab clothes that can get dirty and head up to Callighan Valley for an ATV tour you won’t forget! The ATV tour will have you winding through the backcountry trails out to scenic spots and great places to pull out the camera and take some family photos. But be sure to clean off the lens as I’m sure it’ll be dirty from all the dust that you kicked up on the trails! Want to see what I’m talking about? Check out pictures from our amazing ATV trip here.

Vallea Lumina

A multimedia light walk in the Callaghan Valley, Vallea Lumina is a show that I can’t recommend enough. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve been (at least 5) and every time I’m still in complete awe. The mix of story telling, projection lights, and music, sparks your imagination and leaves you wondering “Where am I and how are they doing this?”. Each season changes the landscape and makes for a great experience. Be sure to check out our review of the Vallea Lumina experience .

Purchase your Vallea Lumina tickets here!

Eco Traveler Tip: For all of the Whistler adventures there are options to take shuttles, which means you don’t need a car to get to them and it’s a more eco-friendly way to travel.

If you’re doing your BC family road trip in the Winter and heading to Whistler during ski season, then hitting the mountains is the number one attraction. Known for early opening and late Spring skiing, the world class POW is worth chasing. But if you and the family don’t ski but want to spend time in the snow, no worries, there are a LOT of experiences awaiting you.

We have put together a comprehensive article showcasing all of the things to do in Whistler for Non-Skiiers, but here’s a quick sampling. You can go skating in the village, get your adrenaline pumping up in the tube park, go ziplining, take in a snowshoe tour, go snowmobiling, take in the evening multimedia light show, Vallea Lumina, go Nordic skiing and try biathlon at Whistler Olympic Park. If you’re looking for something more mellow you can head over to the Audain Art Museum. One of my “non negotiable musts” for those who love spas is to visit the Scandinave Spa, a true Nordic spa experience nestled into the Whistler forest.

Check out pictures from our Winter adventures in Whistler and start planning your own trip here!

Located half an hour north of Whistler is the town of Pemberton, where many of the people who work in Whistler call home. With only 2500 residents, it really is a small mountain town. Located at the base of Mt. Currie, this town really has a stunning view and one of the best places to see it is at North Arm Farm. 

North Arm Farm is a 60- acre working farm that invites you to come and explore. Whether you go for one of their delicious brunches, want to stock up on fresh berries for your BC family road trip, or just want to give the kids a fun place to run around and play, North Arm Farm is a great place to stop on your way through Pemberton. Check out this article showcasing 10 of my favourite photos from our visit as well as more insight on what to expect.

Small towns, wide spaces, and long winding roads await your BC family road trip as you extend your explorations into the Northern area of the province. This portion of the road trip will bring longer stretches of driving in between each stop (but feel free to modify and add stops in the small towns along the way). Some of the highlights to the region include a stay at the Flying U Guest Ranch, the ghosttown turned museum that is Barkerville, family explorations in Prince George, and even a quick trip into Jasper, Alberta since you’ll be so close. Let’s dig in on the essential stops and what to expect along the way.

Lillooet, BC

Located just a two hour drive from Pemberton, along the scenic Duffy Lake Road, Lillooet is a small town with stunning scenery that makes for the perfect road trip stop. But don’t rush the drive there, it really is one of the prettiest drives in the province where you’ll traverse through mountain ranges, see rivers and streams and lakes on the side, and really get into the essence of what a BC road trip is like. Lillooet is famous for it’s huge U shaped river that is broadly showcased on their visitor website, BC’s bluest lake (that is calling you to cannonball into) and a small town that makes for the perfect afternoon stroll, Lillooet is a great little town worth exploring.

This quiet campground is the perfect pit stop in Lillooet on your BC family road trip. With 5 RV sites, 2 tent sites, 1 cozy one-room cabin and a private B&B, its a great place to relax and unwind for the night. Located 3 minutes from downtown, this campground is close to hiking and biking trails, Seton Lake for swimming, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. For more information and to book, visit their website .

Swim in Seton Lake

Known as one of BC’s bluest lakes, Seton Lake is located 6 kilometers south of town, making it the perfect stop on your way into Lillooet.  This is a great lake for swimming, paddle boarding and fishing. Hike the 1.3km moderate Seton Lake Lookout hiking loop trail for a gorgeous view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Pack a lunch and enjoy it lakeside at either the Naxwit Picnic Area or the Bridge River Picnic Site.

Stock up on Farm Fresh Products

If you happen to be going through the town on a Friday be sure to stop at the Farmers Market between 8:30 am and 1:00 pm to stock up on everything from fruits and veggies for your car ride, to local handmade items from Lillooet artisans.

Take a Hike – Literally

With lots of hikes to explore, the tourism board has a whole webpage dedicated to hikes to choose from. Depending on your families hiking preferences (capacity, intensity, duration) you can choose from one of their great hikes. Red Rock has been recommended as it’ll give you great views and is only about a 90 minute climb. While I haven’t personally done this one I am excited to check it out! 

Where your stay and adventure is all in one stop!

The Flying U Guest Ranch is the oldest guest ranch in Canada making it a must stop destination on your BC family road trip. Located 2 hours from Lillooet, 60,000 acres of trails and adventure await you and your family to explore.

Upon arrival you’ll check into your 100+ year old cabin and then you can head out on a guided horseback riding tour, head to the lake for a swim, go paddleboarding, canoeing or kayaking, or take part in one of the ranch’s guest activities like playing horseshoes, badminton, playing mini golf. If you’re more adventurous you can try out water ski lessons or if you’re looking for something more serene check out the spa! With so much to do make sure you allow your family lots of time for ranch life at the Flying U Guest Ranch.  

Fun fact: They like to do long table style meals, encouraging guests to get to know each other and give them the family style experience that has been a tradition at the ranch for over 100 years.

Search for Gold in Barkerville

Cottages in Barkerville

In Barkerville there are modern yet quaint cottages are located just outside the gates of Barkerville, making for the perfect place for a family stay. Located only a quick 2-minute walk into the town of Barkerville, you can be right in the action in minutes. They have 4 cottages each have 3 bedrooms (2 with queen beds and 1 with two twins, sleeping 3-6 people comfortably), a fully equipped kitchen, large dining room table, living room, a washer and dryer, a full bathroom downstairs and a powder room upstairs. A large porch is perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring Barkerville. 

Historic St. George Hotel

Located within the heritage site, this 7 room hotel depicts an authentic 1890s atmosphere while providing guests with modern amenities. For a truly immersive gold rush experience, we recommend booking a stay here.

Book your stay at the St. George Hotel here!

Camping at Barkerville

There are two campgrounds available, both are a short drive from the Barkerville Historic Town and Park. The Lowhee Campground has both reservable and first-come first-serve sites, serviced and non-serviced sites, as well as standard cabins [basic sleeping cabins that feature heat, power, a queen-sized bed (you must supply your own bedding), a mini-fridge, a small dining table, two chairs, and a porch]. The Forest Rose Campground also has both reservable and first-come first-serve sites, serviced and non-serviced sites (some are pull through for larger RVs), and a group camping site.

Barkerville is a living museum that is filled with a ton of hands on activities and displays that the whole family will love, but the kids can really dig into (pun intended) and have some fun. Highlights of your visit to Barkerville will include a town tour, a visit to the royal theatre, stagecoach rides, and of course gold panning!

Theatre Royal

Step right up, grab a popcorn and settle down for the show. Depending on which day you are visiting, a couple of different shows are offered a few times a day. We watched Mrs. McGinley’s Barkerville Variety Show, a humorous show set in the 1860’s. This all ages show had us laughing, clapping and dancing right out of our seats! Don’t forget to stay after the show to have your photo taken with the performers.

Stagecoach Rides

Visit the Barnard’s Express Office and hop aboard an authentic stagecoach for a horse-drawn tour of Barkerville. Barnard’s freighting company helped shape communication and travel to and from the town and was the main passenger service on the Cariboo Wagon Road. This tour around town gives you a different perspective of the town, especially if you choose the seats on the roof!

Gold Panning

A visit to Barkerville wouldn’t be complete without trying your hand at striking it rich! Head over to the Eldorado Gold Panning and Gift Shop and give it a try. An experienced staff member will walk you through all the steps of how to pan for gold and share the best techniques so you can be successful in your panning experience. Maybe you will hit the jackpot!

Guided Town Tour

Check the daily schedule, and join in on one of the guided historic walking tours of Barkerville. Join a few of Barkerville’s “residents” for this entertaining and informative tour up the main street of town. Learn about how the town was built, what life was like for the people in town and what ultimately led to the demise and ghosting of Barkerville.

Not only is Barkerville an incredibly fun and exciting family attraction, it’s also a very educational and interactive destination. The kids will love running around peeking into all the buildings, taking part in school programs, searching for gold, exploring the artifacts and immersing themselves into the Gold Rush days of BC!

Next Stop – Prince George

Prince George is BC’s largest northern city and a hub for services in Northern BC. It is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts! As we drove into town, we looked down into the core of the city to see the town next to the confluence of the Fraser and Nachako Rivers. Not many towns can boast that view!  As we scanned up past the riverbank we could see beautiful hills and rolling mountains surrounding the area, and maps quickly unleashed a myriad of lakes and hiking trails for us to explore.

We hadn’t been on the ground for more than 30 minutes before we knew… we were going to like it here!

This resort is the perfect place for families to stay while visiting Prince George. They offer family suites that feature 1 king bed, a separate bedroom with bunk beds and a kitchenette, or a standard hotel room with 3 queen beds. There is an on-site restaurant and coffee shop, it is pet friendly and has an indoor hot tub, pool and waterslide!

Book your stay at the Prestige Treasure Cove Resort here!

When visiting Prince George for the first time you may be surprised to see how green the city is. With rivers running through town and lots of great parks to explore, there’s lots of outdoor spaces and playgrounds worth making a priority for your first Prince George adventures.

Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park

Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park is a great park to checkout as it’s a flagship park in Prince George and features enough amenities to keep the whole family entertained for the day!

We spent our morning at the playground, which provided the children with the opportunity to climb, swing, hide, and tag on a variety of equipment. The favourite playground equipment was a sunken ladder truck that had been converted into a climbing masterpiece!

Exploration Place Museum

Located next to the playground in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park is the Exploration Place Museum.  As we walked into the museum we were greeted by a “to-scale” dinosaur that reached from the floor to the upstairs level. The kids got to go inside an aquarium and meet face to face with some sturgeon, and also enjoyed posing inside a Tyrannosaurs Rex skull! We had planned on being there for an hour and after 2.5 hours my kids weren’t done and wanted to stay longer! 

The museum had a very unique approach to education. They openly invited guests to touch everything (and if it wasn’t appropriate it was out of reach or covered in glass). This meant:

• The oldest snooker table in Prince George was still allowed to be played on!
• Kids could hold snakes and help the caretakers feed them dead mice
• Petting cockroaches was encouraged

Take a Train Ride in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park

After I was able to pull my kids out of the museum, we took a quick water break and a walk across the parking lot which brought us to the train station. This little train is a fully functioning steam train. “All aboard” and we were invited to take a tour around the track! After our tour, the engineer (a real engineer too) invited us up front to check out how the steam engine worked (and allowed a few poses for pictures).

While I have focused on this beautiful park as a basecamp for adventures while you are visiting Prince George, do note that there is a plethora of other adventures awaiting your arrival including an exit room, go-kart racing, glow in the dark mini golf, a climbing gym, bowling, drive-in theatre, aquatic centre, or just strolling the downtown streets of PG. For a full list of 30+ ideas check out this great site .

Head West to Jasper, Alberta

While technically not in BC, if you’re touring the Northern region of the province on your BC family road trip, it’s worth driving over the Alberta border and spending some time inside Jasper National Park. Downtown Jasper brings one of the things I love the most, and all you have to do is stop and listen and you’ll hear languages from all around the world being spoken, as people flock (especially in the summer) to this famous national park to see animals and explore Canada’s back country. 

With its towering mountains, pristine lakes, and wealth of recreational opportunities, Jasper offers something for everyone.

Jasper National Park Campground

With Jasper being a National Park, I highly recommend that you book Parks Canada accommodations or plan to stay in the park. My personal preference is staying in an oTENTik as it is perfect for road trips, offering the family an incredible glamping opportunity without having to pack the gear the whole trip. 

An oTENTik is the perfect opportunity for people who love camping but don’t want to put up with all of its hassles. It’s similar to an A-frame cabin without any set-up! You can stay warm and dry inside, enjoy cooked meals on your private deck or lounge on a chair outside while listening to nature sing at night time. Whatever type of camping personality you have, a stay in an oTENTik will be a great experience in this eco-friendly getaway.

The benefits keep going even after guests leave: there are no generators running so less noise pollution around campfire areas; the structure itself produces little energy waste due mostly because most materials used were recycled. Staying in an oTENTik is another one of our top things to do in Jasper National Park. Check out our oTENTik experience here !

Booking Tip: Parks Canada accommodations fill up quickly so be sure to know booking reservations dates and be sure to book as quickly as possible to secure your ideal dates and locations!

Newly Renovated Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

If your family road trip style is more of a luxury lodge style vs camping in a tent, then the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a picture perfect place to stay. Recently updated in 2021, the 442 superbly-appointed guest rooms and luxurious signature cabins offer the perfect family vacation in Alberta’s Jasper National Park. Surround yourself with incredible views at the luxury accommodations near Lac Beauvert!

Book your stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge here!

The first thing you need to know when planning your visit to Jasper is that it is a National Park and that alone means there’s going to be lots to see and explore, and a lot of great free programming available for the kids.

Parks Canada Xplorers Program

As soon as you arrive in town you need to make your way to the Parks Canada Visitor Centre and get each of your children a Parks Canada Xplorers program. This booklet will challenge the kids to take part in a variety of programs, games, activities, and adventures around the park, allowing them to choose the ones of their interest. Once complete they can return to the visitor centre with their finished booklets and earn an official Xplorers badge! (we collect them in our house). I love this program as it takes you all around the park and educates the kids (and you) on the park, the eco system, the animals, and the history.

River Rafting in Jasper

If you’re looking for a guided experience, river rafting in Jasper is one of the most beautiful places in the world that I’ve ever been rafting. We did a slow family float down the river and also took part in a more adventurous river rafting experience as well. Both were amazing and some of our favourite photos that we have framed in the house!

23 Things To Do In Jasper

We have a whole article dedicated to everything that you can possibly do in Jasper including photographing the local animals (safely and from a distance), heading out to Maligne Lake, chasing waterfalls, visiting the Miette Hot Springs, going to Pyramid Lake, Visiting the Jasper Skytram, and more. Check out our comprehensive article on things to do in Jasper!  

After visiting Jasper it’s time to make your way back towards Vancouver all while spending a week or so in the beautiful Central Okanagan!

A 4.5 hour drive from Jasper will bring you through the Rockies and to the desert town of Kamloops. Often a transition or an “in-between” destination, Kamloops is a mecca of outdoor activities waiting to be explored! We spent three action-packed days in Kamloops where we rode a Nui for the first time, got lost in an escape room, came face to face with rescued animals (including 2 grizzly bears), and also learned about local mountain biking, hikes, and even a theatrical train to explore! Needless to say, Kamloops is a destination not just a pit stop for BC family road trips!

With an outdoor rooftop pool and hot tub (the views are incredible!), a variety of room options, on-site restaurant, pet friendly, laundry services and being located right downtown, this hotel makes for the perfect basecamp for all of your Kamloops adventures!

Book your stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops here!

With so much to do in Kamloops it’s hard to narrow it down, but here are a few of our favourite recommendations.

Riverside Park

Located right in downtown Kamloops on the South Thompson River is Riverside Park. This popular park is home to tennis & pickleball courts, an adventure playground, a brand new waterpark (open June 1 to Labour Day), a paved riverside walkway and a sandy beach perfect for swimming (lifeguards are on duty July 1 to August 31).

In the summer months (July 1 to August 31) be sure to head to the Rotary Bandshell for “Music in the Park.” This free nightly concert series features over 60 nights of performers and mobile food vendors. Pack those camping chairs and picnic basket and plan to spend the whole day!

BC Wildlife Park

With over 100 acres to explore, the BC Wildlife Park is a fun and educational stop for the whole family. The park is all about teaching, “We believe in conservation through education” Shayla said. “If we do a really good job and teach people how to protect and treat animals, hopefully the need for our rescue centre and park will decrease and there will be less animals in need or our care!”

Learn and visit with over 200 animals & 65 species of local BC wildlife including grizzly bears, black bears and a kermode bear, cougars & a bobcat, variety of birds of prey, wolves and foxes, as well as reptiles, amphibians and many more. Don’t forget to hop on the train and take a ride around the whole park. Learn more about our adventure visit to the BC Wildlife Park here.

Purchase your tickets to the BC Wildlife Park here!

A great place to stop and spend some time is the destination resort that is Sun Peaks. A European village tucked into the mountainside, we felt right at home at Sun Peaks . From my daughter learning how to do her first drops on a mountain bike, to seeing my son get thrown 20 feet in the air in the kid’s zone, to alpine hiking and voyager canoeing, Sun Peaks is the perfect place for an outdoor family to explore during BC road trips! 

Recommended Adventure – Mountain Biking Lessons

I love mountain biking but teaching my kids to ride can be challenging, especially with some specific skill development. When we arrived for mountain biking lessons my daughter was barely confident standing on her pedals! My daughter was inspired and quickly connected to our female instructor, Melissa and after lots of great activities, my daughter’s confidence was up and by the end of the two-hour lesson she had mastered her first drop!

Whether this is your first time mountain biking or you’re a seasoned rider, the mountain biking lessons at Sun Peaks were a great investment and we wholeheartedly recommend.

Located in a four season resort community, sits the Predator Ridge Resort. With spectacular views out over the sunny Okanagan Valley and down towards the town of Vernon and both the Kalamalka and Okanagan Lakes. The Lodge features studio, one bedroom and two bedroom suites (featuring full kitchens), meaning there is lots of room for the whole family. With access to an outdoor pool & hot tub (open May – September), bbq area, market, golf course, restaurant and tons of outdoor activities, The Predator Ridge Resort makes for the perfect basecamp while visiting the Vernon area.

Book your stay at Predator Ridge Resort here!

Stand Up Paddleboarding with Kalavida

Did you know you can find turtles in Kalamalka Lake? A short distance from the beach in front of the Kalavida shop brings you to a side estuary and the best experience of paddling through a tunnel.

After going through the hanging willow tree branches, you’ll be on the lookout for turtles sunning themselves in the heat! Check out more of our turtle adventure here!

Vernon is known for outdoor adventure so you and the family will have tough decisions to make when deciding what to do first. From stand up paddle boarding to mountain biking to hiking, there’s lots of kilometers to explore. If you’re looking for smaller stops and simpler visits, head over to Davison Orchard, my favourite family farm in the province of BC! It has a ton of fun farming activities for the kids, lots of great food, and fruits and veggies that you can stock up the car with! 

While you’re in the area be sure to head next door to Planet Bee where you can learn all about bees and if you’re lucky spot the Queen Bee herself! 

If you’re in town on the weekend definitely check out the Vernon farmers market, which has so many great foods and goods from local artisans and producers. If you’re there be sure to stop and say hello to our friends at Keenan Family Farms !

With so much to do and explore we’ve put together a whole feature article summarizing the top must see experiences in Vernon.

The best hotels are the ones that allow you to have the best family fun experience all while not having to worry about logistics. The Ramada, in the heart of Penticton, is the epitome of family fun and 1970’s parenting combined into one property. With a pool in the middle of the resort you can hang out and lounge, get food and drinks delivered, all while watching the kids play in the pool or out on the grass fields. With walking distance to the lake and all of the town amenities, rooms that come with full kitchens, and so much more, this hotel really is the best in Penticton and worth booking (I go on and on about it sharing more insights and photos in this article here! ).

Book your stay at Ramada by Wyndham Penticton Hotel & Suites here!

Kayaking Tour

Hoodoo Adventures is one of the premier adventure tour and equipment providers in Penticton and we were fortunate to have them take us on a family kayaking tour. One of the favourite things that we did was spot turtles on our paddle which was something that we weren’t expecting but was so fun to see! 

Penticton has a ton of fun things to do right in town as well. Here are some of the kid friendly activities while visiting Penticton that you should add to your list: 

• Wibit – This inflatable water park is located right off the Penticton beach and is a fun place to go and climb, jump, run, and dive! 
• The Giant Peach – Literally a giant peach on the outside, but on the inside an icecream artist creates delectable bites combining ice cream, cake, and brownies. Their menu is full of all sorts of combinations and the portions equate to a whole meal! Sugar high guaranteed. 
• Loco Landing – A mini theme park located right on the lake, Loco Landing has giant swings, climbing apparatus, mini golf, bouncy houses, and more! 
• Tubing down the Channel – We love to load up huge 15 person inflatables and float down the river with our friends. We pack up the coolers with gatorades and snacks and the kids love jumping back and forth on the river. So. Much. Fun.

Osoyoos is only a 45 minute drive from Penticton and will be your last stop on this EPIC BC family road trip. One of the most southern cities in BC and also one of the hottest, Osoyoos is where British Columbian’s and Albertan’s go for summer holidays and we’re sure you’ll love it to. 

Osoyoos gives families the chance to slow down and spend a lot of time together, doing quality activities in the summer. A quaint, lakeside community begs you to slow down as soon as you enter. With world-class resorts and accommodations for every style and budget, Osoyoos is ready for families looking to slow down and spend time together in the summer.

The Watermark Beach Resort is a beautiful, lakefront resort that has large rooms with kitchens, a beautiful resort style pool (including a waterslide!), and in four steps from the pool you can be on the sandy beach. It also has a great location, being right in the middle of town, allowing you to be able to access restaurant and shops within minutes (or like my husband loves to do, head out for a morning coffee from the local brew house). This really is a great family friendly resort that we can’t recommend enough.

Book your stay at the Watermark Beach Resort here!

Osoyoos Lake

If you’re planning a trip to Osoyoos, then you’ll probably be centering a lot of your adventures around lake experiences. From kayaking to paddle boarding, to renting a boat for things like water skiing and wake surfing, to building sand castles and having a beach picnic, the whole town is built around the lake and I’m sure your vacation will be to (and this is also why we have it as our last stop, a great place to sit back and reflect upon it all). 

If you’re looking for some more adventures (or perhaps you need a break from the beach) there’s a lot of other great things to do including heading out to the Osoyoos Lake Waterslides, going mountain biking, going wildlife viewing and bird watching, or taking an interpretive tour at the Osoyoos Desert Centre. Check out our full list of what to do in Osoyoos in the summer to start planning.

We hope we have given you a lot of inspiration, education, and ideas for your BC family road trip. Whether you choose to do one region in the province or go for one big multi week trip, know that as local residents of BC we’re happy to share advice and recommendations, so feel free to reach out and we will do our best to help! 

Your BC Adventure Awaits!

• BC is a BIG province, so be sure to calculate your drive time in between destinations as it may be farther than you think. 
• E-vehicles are great and we recommend them whenever possible, but be sure to check out charging along your route so you don’t get stranded. 
• Wondering what to pack to make the most out of your road trip? No worries, I’ve got you covered with this extensive list!
• Check the weather! During the summer you can see everything from rain to droughts, be sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly.

BC Family Road Trip FAQs

The most popular times to visit for a road trip are May through September, with May, June and September being shoulder season (less busy). July and August are the most popular months to visit, so if you’re planning on coming during that time be sure to book accommodations and key experiences ahead of time where possible. 

Yes! BC was made for families and is a very child centered province. Kids will be welcomed almost everywhere (except for adult only places like bars). You’ll find a lot of great kids adventures and activities as well as kids and family pricing to help you save by bundling up your purchases. 

What other questions do you have? Let me know and I can answer them for you as well as add them into this section.

Here are Some Great Articles to Inspi re Your Road Trip Travels

Best Location to Host a Family Reunion in BC

How to Save Up for the Ultimate Family Vacation

Best Campsites in British Columbia

Canadian Indigenous Cultural Experiences

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Thanks, I was looking up road trips and camping spots in Western BC this yesterday to take my three-year-old on this summer.

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Full Time Travel Writer, Mom who is passionate about empowering and educating travelers on how you can use your own tourism dollars as a catalyst for positive change worldwide. Click here to learn more about us, our family, and how we lead an adventure filled life!

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10 Epic Vancouver Island Road Trip Itineraries That You Will Want to Explore

Vancouver Island is a prime destination for road trips, boasting scenic coastal highways, charming towns , and stunning natural landscapes. A popular Vancouver Island road trip route is the Pacific Rim Highway, which stretches along the west coast of the island, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to Pacific Rim National Park. Another must-see is the Cowichan Valley, known for its wineries, cideries, and artisanal food scene. The island also has plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park, surfing in Tofino, and whale watching in Victoria. With diverse attractions and stunning scenery, Vancouver Island road trips offer something for everyone.

Tips for a Road Trip to Vancouver Island

How to get to vancouver island.

There are several ways to get to Vancouver Island. This is an island with no bridges, so you can either take a seaplane, commercial airplane, private boat or a ferry. The ferry is the most popular option and is an extension of the highway system in British Columbia. Likely you will use the ferry if you are bringing a car. If you are flying to the island, you can also get a rental car on arrival (make sure to book ahead ).

Here are the most popular ways to get to Vancouver Island:

• Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (Victoria)
• Tsawwassen to Duke’s Point (Nanaimo)
• Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay (Nanaimo)
• Port Angeles (WA) to Victoria
• Anacortes (WA) to Sidney (Victoria)

How long should you spend on Vancouver Island

This all depends on how much time you have. A short Vancouver Island road trip can be done in a long weekend. To really explore the island, you will want at least a week. The island is 456 kilometers (283 miles) long and 100 kilometers (62 miles) wide. To drive from the bottom to the top (or vise versa) it would take about eight hours without stopping.

When is the best time to visit Vancouver Island?

The best time to visit Vancouver Island depends on what you plan to do. Summer is peak time to visit just about anywhere in British Columbia with families on summer break and international visitors. Victoria sees cruise ship passengers who are headed on an Alaska cruise as well as many international visitors who are exploring British Columbia’s capital. The rest of the island sees plenty of locals who are taking weekend trips from Vancouver . British Columbians love to camp and explore the beautiful province in the summertime.

Vancouver Island really can be visited all year round as long as you are prepared for the weather.

Do I need a Car

The easiest way to explore Vancouver Island is by car. Whether you bring your own or rent one , it will make it much easier to explore. There is a limited bus service on Vancouver Island that you can book, but it is not the easiest way to see the island.

What to Pack for Vancouver Island

Packing for a road trip adds a few more things than a normal packing list. I do have some complete packing lists for places like Tofino . So have a read of that list as well so you are prepared for the West Coast.

• Car Phone Charger or Battery Pack
• Sim card for Canada
• Cooler for snacks and drinks
• refillable water bottles and coffee cups
• rain jacket and waterproof shoes

Popular Stops on your Vancouver Island Road Trip

• Victoria (Read about Victoria with kids, Victoria with teens , Victoria at Christmas , and Victoria in 3 days )
• Tofino (Read about Tofino restaurants , best places for breakfast, Where to stay )
• Port Alberni
• Campbell River
• Qualicum Beach

Sample Vancouver Island Road Trip Itineraries

• Vancouver to Parksville (via Nanaimo)
• Parksville to Tofino (via Port Alberni and Ucluelet)
• Tofino to Victoria
• Victoria to Vancouver

6 days from Washington

• Washinton to Parksville (via Tsawassen Ferry Terminal)
• Victoria to Port Angeles

7 days from Vancouver

• Parksville to Tofino (via Port Alberni)
• Pacific Rim National Park and Ucluelet

7 days from Washington

• Vancouver to Parksville (via Nanaimo Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal)

8 Days from Vancouver

• Arrive in Vancouver
• Vancouver to Parksville (via BC Ferries)
• Parksville to Tofino (part of the Nanaimo to Tofino road trip route)
• Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park
• Victoria to Vancouver (via BC ferries)

5 Day Circle Route from Victoria

• Arrive in Victoria via BC Ferries, WA Ferries or Air drive to Sooke
• Sooke to Port Renfrew
• Port Renfrew to Cowichan Bay
• Cowichan Bay to Victoria
• Depart Victoria

6 Day Circle Route from Victoria

• Arrive in Victoria via BC Ferries, WA Ferries or Air
• Victoria to Sooke

8 Days Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island

• Vancouver to Sechelt vit Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal
• Explore Sechelt
• Sechelt to Powell River
• Powell River to Tofino
• Pacific Rim National Park to Victoria
• Depart Victoria via Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal

5 Days Victoria Express to Powell River

• Victoria to Cowichan Bay
• Cowichan Bay to Sechelt (via BC ferries)
• Powell River to Vancouver (via BC ferries in Sechelt)

Northern Vancouver Island 8 Days

• Arrive Vancouver
• Vancouver to Tofino (via BC ferries)
• Tofino to Parksville
• Parksville to Campbell River
• Campbell River to Port Hardy
• Port Hardy to Vancouver (via BC ferries in Nanaimo)

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com  which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

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Coastal Circle Route, British Columbia: Best Places to Stop, Road Trip Itinerary + Map

Uncover the essence of BC’s beautiful Salish Sea on a Coastal Circle Route road trip, taking in both Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.

The Coastal Circle Route is an ideal road trip for anyone looking for a satisfying and scenic driving loop located slightly off the beaten path.

Spectacular beaches, calming waterfalls, sweeping mountain views, unforgettable sunsets, lush temperate rainforests and characterful coastal communities await travellers who choose to embark on this 250km long route.

Wildlife watching opportunities are numerous, with the possibility to see bald eagles, whales (including orcas), seals, black bears and more. Further immersion into nature is possible with a wide choice of hiking trails, both long and short.

Exploring BC for more than a week? It would be very easy to combine or extend a Coastal Circle Route itinerary with a longer BC road trip to Tofino , North Vancouver Island , Port Renfrew or the Rockies .

In this post, I’ll share the best places to stop while driving the Coastal Circle Route as well as driving tips and accommodation recommendations. We have driven this loop five times now and keep coming back for more!

Published January 2024. This post includes some affiliate links – if you make a purchase via one of these, we may receive a percentage of the sale.

Coastal Circle Road Trip Route: Essential details

Intrigued by the idea of the Coastal Circle Route? Here are some things you need to know to start planning a trip.

If you’re familiar with the area and just looking for ideas of where to go, feel free to skip ahead .

The Coastal Circle Route is a road trip in British Columbia, Canada. It traverses the east-central shoreline of Vancouver Island as well as the mainland Sunshine Coast with the help of several highways and four ferries.

The total driving distance of this scenic loop is around 250km.

Of course, this distance does not take into account any stops. For that reason, I’d estimate the average road trip along the Coastal Circle Route to be closer to 300km.

With side trips to Cathedral Grove and Campbell River (I’d highly recommend both), plan for an additional 160km.

I would suggest a five-night road trip with overnight stays in Nanaimo/Parksville, the Comox Valley (x2), the Powell River area and Sechelt.

If you prefer to keep moving locations each night, drop the second night in the Comox Valley and spend it in Campbell River instead.

Travellers who like to explore from a base may enjoy spending three nights in the Comox Valley (dropping the night in Nanaimo).

Coastal Circle Route map

Coastal Circle Route: What to expect

The Coastal Circle Route can be driven in either direction. I have suggested clockwise as you’ll be closer to the ocean while driving. Most of the road trip route takes place on major highways.

Highway 19 on Vancouver Island is double-lane (four lanes total), with divided lanes or a concrete barrier along most of the route. I would suggest, however, detouring to the more scenic Highway 19A, a secondary route closer to the ocean.

Highway 19A is a smaller road with only two lanes total, one in each direction. There are intermittent passing sections. Travelling through numerous residential areas, the 19A is a slower drive (40-80km/h limit compared to 110km/h on the 19).

The Sunshine Coast Highway (101) is also almost entirely two-lane. It is a curvy road with many turns, some of them quite sharp. The section between Earls Cove and Halfmoon Bay is the most winding.

There are four ferry crossings on the Coastal Circle Route:

• Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay (OR Tsawwassen to Duke Point) – 1 hour 40 minutes
• Comox (Little River) to Powell River (Westview) – 1 hour 30 minutes
• Saltery Bay to Earls Cove – 50 minutes
• Langdale to Horseshoe Bay – 40 minutes

All ferry routes are operated by BC Ferries . I would highly recommend making ferry reservations unless you have a very flexible schedule.

Coastal Circle Route: good to know

• There is a limited number of reserved spots on each ferry crossing* and once these are gone, the rest of the space is allocated with a first come, first serve system
• Be sure to double-check what time you need to arrive at the ferry terminal to confirm your reservation. 60 minutes before the scheduled departure is the usual requirement. Miss the arrival window and your reservation disappears
• *The ferry between Earls Cove and Saltery Bay (and vice versa) is first come, first serve only, with no reservation system
• When driving clockwise, the ferry from Langdale to Horseshoe Bay is free (reservations are still available)
• When driving counter-clockwise, the ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay is free
• Head to our BC trip planning guide for more general tips and advice

The Coastal Circle Route travels across the traditional territory of multiple First Nations, including the K’ómoks, Homalco, Liǧʷiłdax̌ʷ, We Wai Kai, We Wai Kum, Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, shíshálh, Homalco, Tla’amin and Skwxwú7mesh-ulh Temíx̱w.

Coastal Circle Road Trip: Best things to do

Read on to discover an overview of the Coastal Circle Route and the best things to do along the way. The route is written in a clockwise direction (Vancouver Island first) but you could drive counter-clockwise too (Sunshine Coast first).

While sharing similar landscapes and climates, Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast are unique destinations.

Vancouver Island has the best opportunities for visiting waterfalls, joining wildlife tours and exploring beaches while the Sunshine Coast offers incredible paddling and spectacular sunsets. Both locations have excellent hiking trails.

Vancouver to Nanaimo

Start your journey at the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal in West Vancouver. Arriving at Departure Bay a couple of hours later, make your first stop at Saysutshun – Newcastle Island.

Only boats, bikes and hikers are allowed access to this beautiful provincial park located just across the water from downtown Nanaimo.

Alternatives to Sayshutshun include a hike to the Abyss (an impressive 50cm wide fissure) and Neck Point Park (36 acre protected coastal area).

Before leaving Nanaimo, be sure to make a stop at Petroglyph Park .

Nanaimo to the Comox Valley

It’s time to head north on Highway 19 towards the Comox Valley! There are many great places to stop along this short journey including several beautiful beaches, waterfalls and more.

30 minutes after leaving Nanaimo, you’ll need to make a choice. Highway 19 provides the most straightforward drive but is less scenic. The secondary highway, the 19A, is located closer to the coast.

If you have the time, I’d stay on the 19A. It’s a slower journey but the views are wonderful around Qualicum Beach and also between Buckley Bay and Courtenay .

More spectacular ocean and mountain views await in the Comox Valley . Kayak, golf, hike, swim, fish…. you can do a bit of everything here , including skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

Take a trip out to Goose Spit for views of both Vancouver Island and the mainland mountains behind the ocean.  Point Holmes and Kye Bay also offer fantastic panoramas.

For cooler temperatures and alpine flowers, make the side trip up to Mount Washington and explore the Paradise Meadows area. There is a beautiful boardwalk trail, ideal for all abilities of hikers.

A worthwhile detour in the Parksville area is Cathedral Grove . This roadside-protected area is Vancouver Island’s best-known old growth tree grove . Officially known as MacMillan Provincial Park, the trees in Cathedral Grove are amongst the  oldest and tallest in Canada. Allow at least 1 hour (40km) for the return trip from Highway 19.

Campbell River side trip

Consider a day trip to Campbell River from the Comox Valley (45-60 minutes drive). The beautiful coastal views on the slower Highway 19A are well worth the journey alone.

Campbell River is the gateway to northern Vancouver Island. Here, things start to get a bit wilder. The northern side of the Island is far less visited than the southern and western regions.

Book in for an afternoon whale and bear-watching tour before heading out of town for a trip to Elk Falls. This magnificent waterfall can be viewed from a 60m-long suspension bridge (free access!) Prepare to have your breath taken away.

If you like the sound of Campbell River, consider spending a night here. The drive back to Comox (for the next ferry crossing) does not take long.

Comox Valley to Powell River

Say goodbye to Vancouver island and take the ferry over to Powell River (qathet) on the British Columbia mainland.

Perched where the mainland mountains and the waters of the Georgia Strait meet, Powell River is a little gem of a town. Once reliant on heavy industry, Powell River is now a haven for creatives and those who love the water. 

If you want to go paddling, this is the place, with Desolation Sound to the north and the Powell Forest Canoe Circuit  to the southeast (additional days required).

Kayak rentals and tours are available in Lund , a cute harbour village at the end of the highway. A day trip destination is the sandy (and almost tropical paradise-like) Savary Island. Water-taxis are also available.

Hikers are well catered for in Powell River, with the nearby 180km long Sunshine Coast Trail . Go on a day hike or stay overnight in one of the free trail huts. Tin Hat Mountain is a definite highlight.

Powell River to Vancouver

There are two more ferries to take on the way back to Vancouver , but whatever you do, be sure not to rush.

The highway winds its way along the coves and bays of the pretty coastline, offering wonderful views everywhere you look.

A must-stop along the way is the Skookumchuck Narrows, a whitewater wonder of the world.

An easy and mostly flat 8km return hike leads to a viewing area where, twice a day, you can watch as the saltwater flow changes direction and creates huge waves and whirlpools. Be sure to time it right during your own visit! 

Other things to do include a hike up Soames Hill and a boat trip to the incredible Princess Louisa Inlet . The latter is one of the most beautiful places I have been anywhere in the world. A huge waterfall sits at the very end of the fjord.

The communities of Sechelt and Gibsons are both worth a stop, boasting independent boutiques, craft breweries, Farmers’ Markets and more.

If you like cider, take the time to stop by Brickers . This family-owned cidery has a beautiful patio overlooking the orchards. Just south of town is Davis Bay , a great place for a walk along the waterfront.

Gibsons is best known for being the location of the long-running TV show The Beachcombers. I love Gibson’s artsy vibes and ocean views. My favourite local spot is Persephone Brewing , an 11-acre farm-based brewery.

Where to stay on the Coastal Circle Route

For overnight stays in Nanaimo , we like the Best Western Dorchester Hotel .

Located downtown, this hotel is also close to the Departure Bay ferry terminal and walkable to many local attractions. The Coast Bastion Hotel is another good option. An alternative would be to stay in nearby Parksville .

In the Comox Valley , I’d recommend staying at the waterfront Kingfisher Resort and Spa near Courtenay . A more centrally located alternative is the Old House Hotel .

Our top pick is the Above Tide Motel in Campbell River . While not fancy, the oceanside location of this property is incredible and the prices are pretty reasonable. Each room has a balcony with uninterrupted views of the Salish Sea.

For something a little more upmarket in Campbell River, try Painter’s Lodge .

Over in Powell River , I’d highly recommend the historic Old Courthouse Inn . It’s a very short walk from the excellent Townsite Brewery .

On the lower Sunshine Coast, choose between Sechelt and Gibsons . If I had to pick, I’d stay in Sechelt at the recently renovated the Spot at Porpoise Bay .

While the Spot is not right in town, the location is pretty. I also like the Oceanside Hotel in nearby Davis Bay.

Campgrounds

Camping can be a great money saver when exploring British Columbia’s Coastal Circle Route.

I’d recommend making a reservation during the summer months, especially if you have no flexibility with your schedule.

• Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Parksville : Most of the spacious forested campsites are less than five minutes walk from a gorgeous, wide sandy beach. Beautiful sunsets! Very, very popular (reservation essential from May to September)
• Kitty Coleman Provincial Park near Comox: Incredible oceanfront campground with an unbelievably low price tag. First come, first serve only
• Quinsam Campground, Elk Falls Provincial Park: Forested campground next to a river within 10 minutes drive of Campbell River
• Inland Lake Provincial Park near Powell River : Spacious and usually quiet campground next to a peaceful lake with a loop trail, easy access to the longer Sunshine Coast Trail
• Willingdon Beach Campsite, Powell River: Urban campground within walking distance to downtown, not very private but right on the ocean
• Saltery Bay Provincial Park near Powell River: Small collection of shady campsites with access to a rocky beach. Convenient for the ferry to Earls Cove
• Porpoise Bay Provincial Park , Sechelt: Beautiful forested campground with a long pebble beach on Sechelt Inlet. Very short drive to town

In addition to the above recommendations, there are numerous free or low-cost Recreation Site campgrounds to be found around Campbell River and Powell River.

The easiest way to find Recreation Sites is to use a Backroad Mapbook ( Vancouver Island | Sunshine Coast ). Most are located on unpaved roads, so be sure you have an appropriate vehicle to access them.

FarOut Wilderness rents fully kitted out high clearance 4X4 trucks with rooftop tents, ideal for reaching remote Recreation Sites. Contact FarOut with the code FOW-OTT-5 for a 10% booking discount.

Other resources you may find helpful to plan your road trip:

Where to Find Big Trees on Vancouver Island 22+ of the Best Campgrounds on Vancouver Island 25+ Amazing Vancouver Island Waterfalls You Must Visit Campbell River to Gold River Road Trip Guide: 12+ Beautiful Places to Stop 23+ of the Best Things to Do in Courtenay, Vancouver Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 – 7 Days Away: Okanagan Corridor Route

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

7 – 10 Days Away: Vancouver to the Rockies

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

10 – 14 Days Away: Heritage Discovery Circle Route

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

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

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