10 Epic Road Trips to Take in British Columbia
British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province, is home to breathtaking natural vistas, rugged landscapes, and fascinating flora and fauna. It’s the perfect destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors, whether you’re a hiker, a mountain biker, or a kayaker. And with some of the most scenic driving routes in Canada, British Columbia is a road trip paradise. Here are ten epic road trips to take in British Columbia.
1. Sea-to-Sky Highway
The Sea-to-Sky Highway, or Highway 99, stretches from Vancouver to Whistler, taking you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the province. Along the way, you’ll pass by rugged mountains, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. Make sure to stop at the breathtaking Shannon Falls, and take a gondola ride up the mountain to get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape.
2. Pacific Marine Circle Route
The Pacific Marine Circle Route takes you on a 255-kilometer journey around Vancouver Island’s southern region. You’ll drive through coastal rainforests, past historic lighthouses, and along pristine beaches. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch for wildlife, as this region is home to deer, cougars, bears, and bald eagles.
3. Sunshine Coast
The 180-kilometer Sunshine Coast is one of British Columbia’s best-kept secrets. Accessible only by ferry, it’s a route that’s less traveled, which makes it all the more special. The scenic drive takes you through seaside towns, along rugged coastlines, and through dense forests. Stop by the charming town of Sechelt and take a kayak tour to explore the hidden coves and inlets of the coast.
4. Kootenay Rockies
The Kootenay Rockies offer some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the province. The scenic drive takes you through the towering peaks of the Rocky and Purcell Mountains and past turquoise lakes and hot springs. Visit the charming towns of Kimberley and Cranbrook, and take a hike in the stunning Kootenay National Park.
5. Okanagan Valley
The Okanagan Valley is known for its stunning vineyards, fruit orchards, and lake beaches. A road trip through the valley takes you through scenic twists and turns, past quaint towns, and along pristine lakeshores. Stop by the charming town of Penticton and take a wine tour to sample some of the best wines in the province.
6. Gold Rush Trail
The 1860s saw a gold rush in British Columbia, and the Gold Rush Trail takes you on a journey through the province’s gold rush history. The route takes you through rugged landscapes, dense forests, and historic towns such as Barkerville. Don’t miss the opportunity to pan for gold and learn about the province’s fascinating history.
7. Discovery Coast Circle Tour
The Discovery Coast Circle Tour is a stunning 1100-kilometer journey that takes you through rugged coastlines, fjords, and rainforests. The route takes you through small, charming communities such as Bella Bella and Port Hardy, where you can explore the culture and traditions of the local First Nations.
8. Cariboo-Chilcotin
The Cariboo-Chilcotin region is a vast area of rugged wilderness, dotted with small, charming towns. The route takes you through the stunning Coastal Mountains, past sparkling lakes, and through dense forests. Visit the historic towns of Williams Lake and Quesnel, and take a hike in the remote wilderness of the Chilcotin Mountains.
9. Great Bear Rainforest
The Great Bear Rainforest is a vast wilderness area that’s home to the rare spirit bear and the iconic grizzly bear. A road trip through this stunning region takes you through misty fjords, dense rainforests, and past cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided wildlife tour and spot bears, whales, and other fascinating wildlife.
10. Fraser Canyon
The Fraser Canyon is a narrow, winding valley that’s known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. The route takes you through dense forests, past rugged canyons, and along the banks of the mighty Fraser River. Visit the historic town of Lytton, and take a white-water rafting trip down the river.
Conclusion
British Columbia offers some of the most scenic and spectacular driving routes in Canada. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture vulture, there’s a road trip for everyone in this stunning province. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy some of the most incredible landscapes on the planet.
