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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

Getty Images

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

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

Planning the Logistics

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

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

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

Option 1: East of Vancouver Loop

Jenske Arts / FOAP / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

Option 2: Vancouver Island

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

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

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

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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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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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British Columbia Itinerary – 7 days or 2 weeks

Last Updated on March 1, 2024

British Columbia is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in North America, with its towering mountains, flowing fjords, ancient forests, wine country and energetic cities. British Columbia is also massive, it can take several days to drive across it from north to south! Because of it’s size and geographic diversity, planning a trip can be a bit daunting. This article will help you prioritize and see as much as you can with either a 7 day or 2 week British Columbia Itinerary.

Can I visit British Columbia without a car?

When is the best time to travel to british columbia.

• 7 day British Columbia itinerary without a car
• 2 week British Columbia Road trip itinerary
• What to do if you have more time
• What to pack for British Columbia

Yes! However, it depends on what you want to do on your British Columbia itinerary.

Vancouver and Victoria are both very walkable and even if you have a car I recommend parking it and walking and making use of the fantastic public transportation. It will be a lot less frustrating!

Whistler is also easy to get to and around without a car. You can take a bus from Vancouver and then take the Whistler shuttle anywhere you want to go.

Rural areas of British Columbia are difficult to access without a car, so if you’re traveling car free I recommend sticking with Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler.

You can also take the train from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies which has a stop in Kamloops in Interior BC. This is a gorgeous train ride although it is expensive.

British Columbia is a wonderful year round destination! Depending on what you want to do should determine the best time for your trip.

Summer is the busiest and most popular travel time. Most of British Columbia has long, sunny days, though it’s important to be prepared for rain any time of year, especially in Vancouver, Whistler and Vancouver Island. Expect crowds and lots of people out hiking, paddling and camping.

Fall is a beautiful time of year with less crowds, except in the Canadian Rockies where it’s very crowded through October. Expect freezing temperatures at night in the mountains and the interior. Coastal areas and cooler and rainier, but not as wet as winter.

Winter is a popular time to visit and travel British Columbia. The mountains have incredible skiing (both downhill and cross country) and there are lots of other winter sports to enjoy. Driving is much slower and involves winter driving conditions. Roads are well maintained but can be treacherous at times or closed during storms. Winter is wet and gray in Vancouver and Victoria, though it rarely snows.

Spring is another good way to avoid crowds and is a bit less wet than winter in coastal areas. Spring can still be VERY wet so be prepared. Ski season usually wraps up in late March or early April and high country areas continue to have deep snow through the spring. Keep this in mind if you’re a hiker, since spring is not ideal for mountains hikes in BC.

7 Day British Columbia Itinerary without a car

This 7 day itinerary is designed for those who don’t want to deal with getting a rental car or driving on their British Columbia Itinerary. This whole trip can be done without a car! If you do have a car, this still makes for a wonderful trip (except for parking in Vancouver and the expense of taking the ferry, which you could skip if you’re driving and stick with the mainland). This chart is a summary, the details are below. If you do drive this route, give yourself plenty of time for all the stops along the Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler.

Day 1 – Arrive in Vancouver

Arrive in Vancouver and stretch your legs after your journey in Stanley Park. Find a delicious dinner and catch the sunset before calling it a day. I recommend staying near Stanley Park or Canada Place for this short, car free visit to Vancouver.

Related : Best things to do in Vancouver

Day 2 – Exploring Vancouver

There are so many wonderful things to do in Vancouver! I recommend starting the day in Chinatown for Dim Sum, which is a meal eaten around brunch time and involves lots of small plates to enjoy and share.

After that, take the bus to the University of British Columbia campus and check out the wonderful Museum of Anthropology. The museum is an ideal place to learn about the First Nations people of what is today called British Columbia, both past and present.

Next, take the bus to Granville Island and explore the many shops, eateries and amazing food! Make sure to take the ferry around false creek. The ferry is not only fun, scenic and very Vancouver, but it can also quickly whisk you back to downtown.

Day 3 – Travel to Victoria on Vancouver Island (4 hours)

Today you’re heading to Victoria on Vancouver Island and British Columbia makes it really easy to do this car free! The ferry terminal is a ways outside of town (on both sides) but you can take a bus that takes you from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria without having to navigate lots of different busses on both sides (which is also an option, though it takes longer and is more complicated).

Head over here for all the scheduling and booking details for the bus and ferry trip to Victoria. The trip takes about 4 hours (including the very scenic ferry ride).

Depending on what time you arrive in Victoria, you will likely have time to wander around town and check out the inner harbor. For a longer walk with expansive views head out Dallas Road along the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

I recommend staying in Victoria’s inner harbor, which puts you in the middle of everything and is very walkable. It’s also easy access to transit.

Related : Best things to do in Victoria

Day 4 – Exploring Victoria

Today is your day to explore the delightful and charming town of Victoria, which is also the capital of British Columbia.

In the morning, walk around town and down the shopping area of Government Street and take in one of Victoria’s excellent museums. I recommend the Maritime Museum or the Royal BC Museum.

In the afternoon, you need to have afternoon tea! This is an institution for generations in Victoria. I recommend skipping the very tourist oriented (and overpriced) tea at the Empress Hotel and instead have tea at Butchart Gardens. In my opinion, this is the best afternoon tea in Victoria . This also gives you the chance to explore world famous Butchart Gardens, which is really beautiful all year.

To get out to Butchart Gardens, you can take the city bus from downtown and it takes about 45 minutes. There are also tour buses you can take to get there which are a bit more expensive but get you there a little faster.

In the evening, make sure to stroll by the British Columbia parliament buildings, which have really beautiful white lights at night all year round.

Day 5 – Travel to Whistler

Today you’re heading from the harbors of Victoria to the towering mountains of Whistler . First, you’ll take the ferry/bus combo back to downtown Vancouver and then take the bus to Whistler. Learn all about the bus service to Whistler here . You will need to take the bus or Sky train a short distance from Pacific Central Station to Burrard to catch your Whistler bus. Plan on the journey taking most of the day.

Not only are you seeing the amazing islands and mountains of the Salish Sea from the ferry on your return trip, you’ll also be traveling up one of Canada’s most beautiful roads on the way to Whistler.

I recommend staying in Whistler Village which is very walkable and you can also take the shuttle around the Whistler area.

Day 6 – Exploring Whistler

Today you get to explore the stunning mountain town of Whistler! Make sure to enjoy some of Whistler’s incredible restaurants, no matter what time of year it is.

I recommend riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which you can ride year round. If it’s not a clear day, I would skip this since the view is what makes it really amazing. If you’re a hiker, don’t miss out on the amazing hiking options here .

Whistler is also a wonderful place to take a hike or a walk, there are lots of places to explore close by. Alta Lake has kayak rentals if you want to explore the water in summer and you can snowshoe around it in winter.

If it’s winter, Whistler is a great place to ski! If you’re not a skier, you can enjoy the snowy wonderland on snowshoes too.

Day 7 – Return to Vancouver

Today you’ll take the bus back to Vancouver, which takes about two hours. Depending on the schedule the day you’re traveling, you might have more time to explore Whistler before you depart or Vancouver when you arrive.

Spend the rest of the day doing anything else you missed at the beginning of your trip in Vancouver before heading home.

Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip Itinerary – 2 weeks

If you’re looking for an epic two week road trip adventure in British Columbia, here it is! You’ll want to park and take public transportation in Vancouver and Victoria, which are very walkable and have excellent transit. If you want to stay away from towns altogether, you can spend more time on the open road (driving around Vancouver Island instead of exploring Victoria for example). The chart provides a summary, with details below

Arrive in Vancouver and stretch your legs after your journey in Stanley Park. Find a delicious dinner and catch the sunset before calling it a day. I recommend staying near Stanley Park or Canada Place and leaving your car parked. It’s easy to get around Vancouver without driving! If you choose to drive, know that parking in many locations can be a challenge.

After that, take the bus (or drive) to the University of British Columbia campus and check out the wonderful Museum of Anthropology. The museum is an ideal place to learn about the First Nations people of what is today called British Columbia, both past and present.

Next, take the bus (or drive) to Granville Island and explore the many shops, eateries and amazing food! Make sure to take the ferry around false creek. The ferry is not only fun, scenic and very Vancouver, but it can also quickly whisk you back to downtown. Parking can be a challenge on weekends at Granville Island. Leave the car at your lodging if possible.

Day 3 – Travel to Victoria on Vancouver Island (3 hours – not including ferry wait)

Today you’ll get up and drive to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal. While not technically required, I highly recommend getting a reservation for the ferry in advance if you’re bringing a car ( schedules and booking here ). It could take up to an hour to get there depending on traffic. Make sure to arrive 30-60 minutes before your ferry is scheduled to sail.

The ferry ride is just over an hour and a half, with beautiful views of the mountains and islands of the Salish Sea around you.

Once you arrive at the Schwartz Bay Terminal on Vancouver Island, it’s about a 45 minute drive to Victoria.

I recommend staying in the inner harbor so you can walk to most things in town.

To get out to Butchart Gardens it’s about a half hour drive from the Inner Harbor. You can take the city bus from downtown and it takes about 45 minutes if you don’t want to deal with parking.

Day 5 – Victoria to Tofino (5 hours)

This morning you’ll get up and do some scenic driving on Vancouver Island to the town of Tofino , which faces the open Pacific Ocean. It’s a slow drive but absolutely beautiful and fully worth it to see the stunning surf of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the rocks or exploring the beaches at low tide.

There are plenty of forest walks, waterfalls and beaches to stop at along the way to stretch your legs. Once you pass the town of Parksville, you’ll begin driving across Vancouver Island, going over a pass in the middle. You’ll pass the town of Port Alberni at the head of a long fjord.

When you are almost to Tofino, you’ll be near the town of Ucluelet which is another option for a place to stay on the west coast of Vancouver Island a slightly shorter drive.

Related : Best things to do in Ucluelet and Tofino

Day 6 – Tofino to Whistler (7 hours – not including ferry wait)

Today you’ll enjoy breakfast in Tofino (or Ucluelet) and perhaps fit in another beach stroll before starting your journey to Whistler. First off, you’ll retrace your journey back as far as Nanaimo (about 3 hours).

In Nanaimo, you’ll board a different BC ferry that will take you to the Horseshoe Bay terminal on the north side of Vancouver. Once again, you’ll want to have a reservation and arrive 30-60 minutes early. If you have enough time to explore the city of Nanaimo, make sure to get a Nanaimo bar!

It’s another scenic ferry ride across to the mainland that lasts about an hour and forty minutes.

When you arrive in Horseshoe Bay, you’ll be driving the almost unbearably beautiful Sea to Sky Highway for 100 km (60 miles to Whistler). While the drive is only an hour and a half, there are so many wonderful places to stop along this highway it is likely to take you much longer! At a minimum make sure to stop at Porteau Cove and Shannon Falls.

Related : 17 fun stops on the Vancouver to Whistler drive

Day 7 – Exploring Whistler

Today you get to explore the beautiful town of Whistler! Whistler is world famous for it’s skiing (the Olympics were here after all), but there’s so much more to Whistler than just ski slopes.

I recommend riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which you can ride year round. If it’s not a clear day, I would skip this since the view is what makes it really amazing. You’ll see mountains as far as you can see in every direction!

Make sure to take in some of Whistler’s excellent food as well.

Day 8 – Whistler to Kamloops (4 hours)

Today you’ll start your drive to Kamloops, which is a delightful town in BC’s sunny interior of wineries and agriculture! Kamloops is a perfect halfway point to break up the drive to the Canadian Rockies.

Make sure to give yourself time to explore the town of Kamloops as well as stop and taste some delicious BC wine.

Day 9 – Kamloops to Radium Hot Springs (5.5 hours)

Today you are heading to the Canadian Rockies! This post is about a British Columbia itinerary, although the Canadian rockies stretch across British Columbia and Alberta. Many people go straight to Lake Louise, Banff and Jasper. These are beautiful and extremely crowded locations. If you want a little more room, less people and a more relaxed experience, stick with Kootenay National Park and Yoho National Park, which adjon Banff National Park and are every bit as stunning!

Related : Why you should visit Kootenay National Park

I recommend Radium Hot Springs as a base camp for your explorations in the Canadian Rockies, because it’s more affordable and less crowded than Banff and Lake Louise. There are a number of hotels in the town of Radium Hot Springs as well as vacation rentals and one of my favorite campgrounds ever, the Redstreak Campground. Redstreak Campground is operated by Parks Canada and is in Kootenay National Park. You can also walk from your campsite to Radium Hot Springs for your soak.

On the way from Kamloops to Radium, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch your legs. Make sure to stop at the Giant Cedars Trail in Mt Revelstoke National Park and Roger’s Pass.

When you arrive in Radium, make sure to go to Radium Hot Springs, which is my favorite of the Parks Canada operated hot springs. It is MUCH less crowded than the hot springs in Banff. Actually, I recommend doing this EVERY night while you’re in the Canadian Rockies

Day 10 – Exploring the Canadian Rockies

I suggest spending today exploring Kootenay National Park and Yoho National Park. In Kootenay, make sure to stop at Marble Canyon, which is a relatively short walk and absolutely stunning. The drive through the park is breathtaking, even in moody weather. There are plenty of hiking opportunties here as well.

In Yoho, don’t miss gorgeous and internet famous Emerald Lake, with it’s towering mountains, perfect blue-green water and charming photogenic lodge. You can walk around the lake or rent a canoe here if you want to spend some time.

Takakkaw Falls is another fantastic stop in Yoho, if you’re up for the adventurous drive to get there!

Don’t forget to go back to the hot springs tonight!

Day 11 – More exploring the Canadian Rockies

If you’re up for braving the crowds, this is a good day to head to Banff and Lake Louise. I recommend going straight to the shuttle area on the highway for parking and get there as early as possible to see Lake Louise. Get there as early as possible as even the shuttle sometimes includes a long wait. Don’t even think about trying to drive into the Lake if you’re not staying there.

Lake Louise has plenty of hiking trails and canoe rentals to spend your day in and you can also go further up the road (again on the shuttle) to Morraine Lake, which is possibly even more beautiful!

If you’re not tired of crowds, head over to Banff and explore this charming mountain town. There are plenty of shops and restaurants as well as walks and hikes to keep you busy in Banff.

Day 12 – Radium Hot Springs to Nelson (5.5 hours)

Today you’re leaving the Canadian Rockies behind you to make your way back to Vancouver. You’re going to spend three days getting there so you can have some fun and not just be in the car all day. It is possible to drive straight from Radium to Vancouver in one day, which takes about 10 hours (without stops) and backtracks the same roads you’ve already driven.

On this British Columbia itinerary, we’re seeing new things on different roads on the way back!

On your drive from Radium to Nelson, I recommend going the slightly slower way that includes taking a short and scenic ferry across Kootenay Lake and a soak in Ainsworth Hot Springs (which has a super cool human made cave).

Nelson is only a short distance beyond Ainsworth. If you get there early enough to explore this quirky mountain town, you’ll enjoy it’s many shops and restaurants along the river.

Day 13 – Nelson to Osoyoos (3 hours)

Today you could drive all the way back to Vancouver, but I recommend taking your time to explore the agricultural heartland of British Columbia and taste more incredible wine. You’ll be going through mountains and forests to get there, but Osoyoos itself is very dry.

Spend some time enjoying Osoyoos Lake and wine tasting when you arrive.

Day 14 – Osoyoos to Vancouver (5 hours)

Today you’ll complete your British Columbia road trip by returning to Vancouver! Along the way you’ll head up and over the Cascade Mountains to the Salish Sea once again.

EC Manning Provincial Park is a wonderful place for hiking or picnicking. The mountains here are incredible and you’ll continue to see amazing views as you drive from Hope to Chilliwack over a high mountain pass.

Once you get to Chilliwack, you’ll be in the outskirts of Vancouver. If you are flying out, it makes sense to stay near the airport tonight so you’re ready to fly home.

Related : Complete guide to Winter in Manning Park, BC

If you have more time for your British Columbia Itinerary

If you have more time for your trip in British Columbia (lucky you!) here are a few ideas for how to spend it:

• Explore more of Vancouver Island , including the remote north end of the island
• Relax on the quiet and stunningly beautiful Sunshine Coast
• Go further up north along the Cariboo Chilcotin Highway
• Spend more time in BC wine country
• Visit even more hot springs !
• Spend more time in the Canadian Rockies
• Spend more time in Vancouver

Related : Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary

What to pack for your trip to British Columbia

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The weather throughout British Columbia varies quite a bit, with the Vancouver and Victoria area being rainier with more mild temperatures year round. The BC interior is hotter in summer, colder in winter and sunnier and drier year round.

For both of these itineraries, I recommend being ready for rain or sun any day all year! The main difference for winter is to bring more warm layers on colder days. The most important thing is to have an excellent rain jacket and waterproof footwear any time of year in British Columbia.

If you’re doing your British Columbia itinerary in the winter, you might want to consider bringing snow boots as well as a puffy coat if you are leaving the Vancouver and Vancouver Island area.

For summer travelers, it can be rainy and chilly in the summer, but it can also get quite hot. Make sure to bring some light layers for hot days (or warm indoor spaces).

Some specific things I recommend packing for your trip to British Columbia include:

It’s probably not a surprise that the most important thing to consider in what to pack for British Columbia is an  excellent rainjacket . Make sure it’s actually waterproof and not a light windbreaker (although if you’re visiting late July through early September that would likely be adequate if you’re staying in Vancouver).

• Make sure it’s  waterproof  (I like Gore Tex material but it’s not the only option)
• Make sure it’s  big enough to fit over other layers  (especially in winter when you’ll need a warm layer underneath it). I always have a rainjacket one size bigger than other tops I own.
• Make sure it’s  long enough  – this is a matter of personal preference but I prefer one that is long enough to not ride up all the time, especially with layers on
• Get a  lightweight  one – Because rain happens at a wide variety of temperatures in British Columbia, I recommend getting a rain jacket without an insulating layer and getting a separate layer of warmth (like a fleece or puffy) . This will allow you to wear them separately. A light raincoat is also easy to bring in your bag for that sudden rainstorm

If you’re looking for a specific rainjacket to pack for British Columbia, I highly recommend both this  Marmot one from Amazon  and  this REI Co- op one  (also available in plus sizes!). Both of these are excellent rain jackets that are durable and reasonably priced.

Waterproof boots or shoes

This is particularly important in fall through spring. If you’re visiting late July through early September and staying in cities without doing any hiking, then you might be fine without waterproof footwear.

Lots of people wear rubber boots even on city streets when it’s raining, in particular the super popular Hunter rubber boots, which come in a variety of colors. I personally prefer Xtra Tuf Boots ( especially these beautifully patterned Salmon Sisters ones ) because they are also super comfortable for muddy hikes!

If you’re more interested in hiking boots or hiking shoes, that’s another great option for the footwear you pack for British Columbia and it’s totally ok to wear hiking shoes and boots in the city too. I personally recommend Merrells which I wear for hiking. I prefer  hiking shoes  to boots, but if you prefer the extra ankle support of  hiking boots then I recommend these .

In addition to shoes,  wool socks  will help keep your feet warm and if they get wet it’s not totally miserable! Bring lots of extra socks!

Other Essentials

A few other things I consider necessary (in addition to toiletries and person items) include

• Waterbottle – like much of the Pacific Northwest, people carry waterbottles and you can fill them up all over the place
• Umbrella – this can be really handy for summer days or surprise rain showers
• Resuable shopping bag – you can get this when you arrive if you don’t have one or don’t want to travel with it. Effective January 1, 2022 there is a plastic bag ban so you’ll want to have something to carry purchases with
• Layers – you’ll want to be comfortable in a variety of temperatures, so bring clothes you can wear separately or together on warm or cool days.

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Exploring British Columbia: two itineraries for the ultimate road trip

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

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

ROUTE ONE HIGHLIGHTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ROUTE TWO HIGHLIGHTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more about British Columbia .

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Travel BC | BC Road Trip Itinerary and Tips

Congratulations, it’s official! You have booked time off for a trip to British Columbia. You are now commencing “Operation: Plan Your BC Road Trip.”

Road trips have become a pandemic vacation go-to, and BC has once again taken the cake for the best province for one. But where should you start? What should you see? It would help if you had a BC road trip itinerary.

Travelling through BC and the Canadian Rockies is an unforgettable experience — and it doesn’t matter what time of year you go. British Columbia has become a hub for RV  road trips  because of the unbelievable scenic drives, pit stops, and never-ending outdoor adventures. 

Get your bags packed and camera-ready. We’re about to set you up with a complete BC itinerary, activity suggestions, and tips for the road.

Road Conditions and Seasonal Preference to Travel BC

The road trip of your dreams through the Canadian Rockies

One of the biggest questions we ask ourselves when planning a trip is when are we going to go? In BC, the time of year makes a big difference in weather, road conditions, wildlife viewing, and campsite availability. 

Summer Months (April-September) : 

This is the most popular time of year to take BC road trips. For the most part, the roads are dry, so the time it takes from one location to the next will be shorter. In addition, you don’t need to pack as many extra bulky layers and rain gear.

There are many outdoor activities to choose from, including biking, hiking, camping, climbing, ziplining, rafting, etc. July and August are very busy, though. So it’s very important to make sure you book ahead as it’s quite difficult just simply roll into an empty campsite this time of year.

Winter Months (November-March)

Winter brings another vibe when travelling through British Columbia. It is a dream if you love to ski, snowboard, sled, cross-country ski or snowshoe. 

Although it is a winter wonderland, road and weather conditions can be rough. Roads can become very slick and snowy, especially on the famous sea-to-sky highway or any mountain road. 

Drive safe and smart. It is very important to have winter tires on your vehicle before November, where winter tire regulations come into effect on most mountain roads in BC.

10 Tips for BC Road Trip Success 

• Best time of year:  September is one of the best months for a road trip because kids are back to school. It’s quieter, and the weather is usually a very nice temperature, not too hot or too cold. Roads are also still snow-free.
• Give yourself time:  Allow yourself at least two weeks to experience this suggested road trip.
• Disconnect:  Try to disconnect from your phones and immerse yourself in the Rocky Mountain experience. 
• Try new things:  Zipline, rafting, backcountry slopes, hiking to a mountain peak, and more.
• Don’t feed the bears!  Don’t disturb the wildlife. Keep a safe distance.
• It’s not a race:  Drive safe and smart on BC’s mountain roads.
• Book ahead of time:  Plan and make sure you have places to park your RV at night.
• Stay warm and dry:  Pack waterproofs and extra layers. You will need them at some point.
• Don’t forget gear rentals:  Bikes, skis, and boards. You’ll need these to get the most out of BC’s outdoor adventures.
• Fire safety:  There is usually a total fire ban across BC from June to September. Don’t be those people. Check local restrictions before lighting up a campfire at night.

Best Camper and RV Rentals for BC Road Trips

Vancouver is a great location to start your BC road trip. It’s the perfect spot to get any last-minute items organized or activities booked. It is also a prime location as there are multiple RV rental options in the area. 

• Wicked Campers

Wicked Campers  are a stand out in Whistler and other ski-towns. These converted minivans are totally rad, covered in custom graffiti, and loaded with everything you’ll need to road trip your way through the mountains. So if you are looking for affordability and steeze for your ski trip, these are the campervans for you.

Price Point: $66 per day

• CanaDream RV Rentals Vancouver

This is a very popular choice for RV rentals and consistently delivers quality service. You’ll see them driving all across Canada. They believe in creating a memorable experience for their customers at their own pace. 

Price Point: Dependent on location, add-ons, and RV style.

• Rent a Camper Canada

This is a unique service that offers to upgrade a rental minivan into a kitted-out basic campervan. Potentially would be of appeal if looking for a more affordable option but still road-trip-ready.  Rent-a-Camper Canada  helps to load the car with all the camping equipment and do a thorough walkthrough, so you know where everything is. 

Price Point: $45 to $51 per night, plus set up fee

• Karma Campervans

Are you looking for a sleek Sprinter van to make that road trip through the rocky mountains a one for the books? 

Karma Campervans  are four-season adventure mobiles kitted out in a modern, stylish, and comfortable interior. Available in Richmond, BC and Calgary, AB.

Price Point: $269 per night

Road Trip Itinerary #1: Canadian Rockies Highlights

If you have never been to BC and never experienced the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains, then you’ll want to hit all the highlights. Start in Vancouver and end in Calgary. This is a true taste of what this province has to offer.

• Vancouver (Start)

Explore this gorgeous oceanfront city by renting a bike and cycling along the seawall of Stanley Park. 

Grab a coffee at Granville Island and wander through the marketplace. Then, soak up the first nation’s culture at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. 

Conquer the Grouse Grind on Grouse mountain. Play beach volleyball at Kitsilano Beach. 

Callaghan country is a must-see hiking area near Whistler.

Work your way up north along the sea to sky and explore the world-famous ski-town resort of Whistler.

If visiting in the winter, hit  the slopes ! In the  summer months , spend a day experiencing the Whistler bike park or explore the  endless hiking options  Whistler has to choose from. Take in the views from the Peak-to-Peak Gondola. 

Zipline your way through the cedar mountains and trees. Then, wander your way through the multi-media attraction magical night walk — Vallea Lumina.

• Revelstoke 

Revelstoke is another beautiful ski and bike town further into the interior of BC. Visit the Revelstoke Railway Museum, raft your way down the white water rapids, and check out a fun way to take in the views on the Pipe Mountain Coaster. 

Explore the quaint town and set yourself up with a nice camping spot for the night. 

You’ve made it to Alberta! Banff is second only to Whistler when it comes to Canadian mountain towns. There’s hiking, rafting, biking and paddling all based around this world-class ski town.

Visit the world-famous Banff hot springs to get some much-needed R & R. Lake Louise is one of the most photographed points in Banff National park. It is at dusk where the most beautiful colour of blue emerges. 

• Calgary (End)

There is an endless list of activities in and around Calgary to choose from, like golfing, horseback riding, kayaking, boating, and more. With the mountains still in view, you can get your big-city fix before winding down your road trip.

End your Canadian Rocky road trip on a high note with a taste of this cowboy town.

Road Trip Itinerary #2: Sea to Sky to Hot Springs

If you’d prefer a circular route, and one that still gets some mountain time, may we suggest traveling the full Sea to Sky Highway?

Once again, we begin our adventure in the metropolis of Vancouver. 

A few more highlights worth hitting up in this beautiful oceanfront city include the infamous Wreck Beach on the UBC campus and the meandering trails through Pacific Spirit Park. Next, get your hike on Deep Cove in North Vancouver, finished with one of the best donuts in the city at Honeys.

Hike the Chief for one of the easiest peaks around whistler.

Squamish is only an hour’s drive from Vancouver but a world apart. This booming adventure town has just about every outdoor sport you could ever want: mountain biking, hiking, white water kayaking, rafting, and more.  Don’t miss hiking the Chief, the mountian that dominates the local landscape.

Spend a few days here, camping at one of the campsites located along the many rivers, like the Mamquam River Campground or the Squamish Valley Campground.

Heading North once again, you’ll find yourself in Whistler. It’s time to get your fill of that mountain lifestyle. We are talking white water rafting, fly fishing adventures, axe throwing, and more. 

Any time of year makes for the perfect time to visit Canada’s best ski and mountain bike resort. 

A mountain town with a foodie’s heart, Pemberton has plenty to off those who love the backcountry and a big bowl of hearty food at the end of the day. We recommend digging into a local burger and more at Mile One Eatery. 

Hot tip:  If you can’t wait for the end of the trip for a hot mountain soak, why not make a pit stop between Pemberton and Lillooet at Tsek Hot Springs. (Due to the pandemic, they are temporarily closed, check the  website  for updates).

Welcome to Canada’s desert interior. Lillooet is a small town huddled around the deep canyon of the Fraser River. Spend a few days here hiking the dusty trails, including over the photo-worthy old suspension bridge. You may also want to dabble in some of the province’s best wine or dig into the area’s historical and cultural experiences, like from Xwisten Experience Tours.

• Harrison Hot Springs

Heading south for one final stop before looping back to Vancouver, spend a few days relaxing at Harrison Hot Springs. This resort sits at the southern tip of Harrison Lake and offers unrivalled access to these rejuvenating hot springs. 

While here, you can rent paddle boats, kayaks and canoes to explore the lake or head up the Forest Service Roads to the East and West to go deeper into the local trails and mountains.

Then, it’s only an hour to return your RV rental to Vancouver.

Create a Custom Memorable, Dream Road Trip

It’s important to create a road trip that suits you and your family’s needs. The locations above are what we’d suggest, but the beauty of a road trip is the wiggle room! BC road trips are made for pit stops and off-schedule activities. 

Your British Columbia road trip awaits. Be sure to try out the local cuisines, independent coffee shops and craft beer and ciders. Check out this  super Canadian itinerary  to immerse yourself into Canadian culture. All the best on your adventures!

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Swing and swoop through the air with Whistler’s most popular ziplining experience: Superfly Ziplines.

Mountain Biking

Explore the breathtaking mountains and trails while mountain biking in Whistler BC. Perfect for every skill level and trail type.

Strap yourself in because RZR tours will take you soaring over rocks, whizzing through the trees, and racing through the dirt.

Whitewater Rafting With The Adventure Group

Grab your paddle and rip through the wild waters of Whistler BC with Wedge Rafting!

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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 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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Georgia Stephens | 13 March 2019

8 of british columbia’s most spectacular road trips.

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

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

1: Sea to Sky Highway

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

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

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

2: Route 97

Route 97 winding around Okanagan Lake (Shutterstock)

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

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

3: Vancouver to Tofino

Beautiful ancient trees in Macmillan Provincial Park (Shutterstock)

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

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

4: Powder Highway

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

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

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

5: Yellowhead Highway 

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

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

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

6: Hope to Cache Creek

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

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

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

7: Scenic Highway

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

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

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

8: Pacific Marine Circle Route

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

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

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

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

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

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2 Week BC Coast and Rockies Road Trip: Detailed Itinerary + Map

Can’t choose between visiting Vancouver Island or the Canadian Rockies? You don’t have to!

This two-week BC Coast and Rockies road trip route showcases both ocean and mountain regions as well as lush temperate rainforest and dry grasslands.

Expect to see turquoise lakes, deep canyons, gorgeous sandy beaches, huge waterfalls and more. There’s a chance to see bears, whales and bald eagles too.

Living in British Columbia for 10+ years now, JR and I have explored this province’s highways and hiking trails pretty extensively.

We can totally understand why visitors have trouble deciding between Vancouver Island and the Rockies. For the same reason, we live in the middle of British Columbia! Like this road trip itinerary, we get the best of both worlds.

This detailed post includes a day-by-day overview of the entire two-week BC Coast and Rockies road trip route as well as planning tips to help save you money (and stress!) along the way.

Here’s what to expect:

Road trip itinerary at a glance

Need to know info.

• Vancouver to Victoria
• Victoria to Tofino
• Tofino to Parksville
• Parksville to Whistler
• Whistler to Kamloops
• Kamloops to Revelstoke
• Revelstoke to Golden
• Golden to Banff
• Banff to Calgary
• Money saving tips

Camping details

• Alternative itineraries

More planning resources

Published February 2024. This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of these links, we may receive a small percentage of the sale. All prices in this post are Canadian dollars.

2 Week BC Coast and Rockies road trip overview

Time to start planning a BC Coast and Rockies road trip! This section of the guide provides an overview of the itinerary with a map and some important need-to-know information.

Let’s take a look at an overview of this 2 Week BC Coast and Rockies road trip route from start to finish:

Day 1 : Vancouver Day 2: Vancouver to Victoria Day 3: Victoria Day 4: Victoria to Tofino Day 5: Tofino Day 6: Tofino to Parksville Day 7: Parksville to Whistler

Day 8 : Whistler to Kamloops Day 9: Kamloops to Revelstoke Day 10: Revelstoke to Golden Day 11: Golden to Banff Day 12: Banff Day 13: Banff Day 14: Banff to Calgary

If this routing sounds too fast for you or involves too much driving, I suggest looking at the alternative itineraries section at the bottom of the post.

2 Week BC Coast and Rockies road trip map

Use the below Google Map for orientation and planning.

Each of the suggested activities is marked on the map, with suggested accommodations in each town and city.

• This BC Coast and Rockies itinerary has been crafted in such a way as to reduce large driving blocks and take advantage of the best en-route activities
• While it is possible to explore this road trip route in either direction , I have written it from west to east for a few reasons. One significant factor is the ferry crossing on day 7, which occurs early in the day when driving from west to east
• The best time to drive this road trip is July to September . June can also be a good time, though some activities and trails in the Rockies will have limited accessibility at this time
• This itinerary is relatively fast-paced . If you choose to do most of the activities listed, you will not have a lot of downtime. Expect to be busy all day from breakfast until dinner
• If you know that you will need more downtime, stretch this itinerary over a longer period or skip some of the activities/stops
• The route and suggested activities are aimed at people who enjoy exploring nature and being active while on vacation
• Keep in mind that this 2 Week Coast and Rockies road trip route offers just a taste of local activities and trails. I have not mentioned every single possible activity as it is impossible to do everything !
• A national park pass is required to visit or camp in the national parks mentioned in this post (provincial parks are free)
• Before you leave home , I would suggest learning at least the basics concerning how to avoid negative bear encounters and also some outdoor safety . If you see a bear while driving, stay in your vehicle!
• When exploring BC , be sure to always Leave No Trace (dispose of trash properly, stay on established trails, don’t feed wildlife)
• More tips and advice in our BC trip planning guide

Day-by-day 2 Week BC Coast and Rockies road trip guide

Read on to discover a detailed breakdown of this two-week BC Coast and Rockies road trip itinerary, including where to stay and what to do each day.

Day 1: Vancouver

Surrounded by temperate rainforest, mountains and ocean, Vancouver boasts remarkable natural beauty.

The downtown area is relatively compact, though there are good public transport links to surrounding areas. The SkyTrain is particularly convenient for travelling between the airport (YVR) and downtown.

Things to do in Vancouver

• A single day doesn’t offer much time to explore Vancouver. Depending on how far you’ve travelled to reach the city, it might be wise to approach this day in a relaxed way, without trying to cram in too many activities or sights
• The Vancouver Seawall encircling Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most unique features. Consider renting a bike to explore the whole route or just stroll along a portion of it
• The Granville Island Public Market is a beloved destination for both tourists and locals alike. Make sure to arrive with an appetite
• Of course, a stroll around downtown is a must-do. Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood and features cobblestone streets, galleries, cafes and boutiques

Where to stay in Vancouver

Budget Full disclosure here – it is difficult to find low-cost summer accommodation in Vancouver. The YWCA Hotel is one of the best value options. The cheapest rooms have shared bathrooms

Mid-range The Moda Hotel is definitely my top pick in Vancouver. We’ve stayed several times and love the central location. The King rooms are spacious but even the smaller ones have everything you need

Luxury For the most comfortable stay in Vancouver, consider the Fairmont Pacific Rim . The palatial suites have incredibly scenic views of the harbour and surrounding mountains

Day 2: Vancouver to Victoria

Driving distance: 115km Driving time without activities : 3 hours plus ferry waiting time

And now the adventure truly begins. There are quite a few different ways to reach Victoria from Vancouver. The most direct ferry route is from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay.

• Cheapest: Travel to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal on public transport and then take the bus into Victoria (around $30 per person, allow 4 hours)
• More comfortable budget option: Take the Wilson’s BC Ferries Connector bus , which picks up at major Vancouver hotels and drops off in downtown Victoria (around $105 per person, allow 4 hours, note baggage limits)
• Alternative option: Take a taxi to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal, cross to Swartz Bay, and taxi to Victoria (around $200 for two people, allow 4 hours)
• Drive your own vehicle: Pick up a vehicle rental and drive to Tsawwassen ferry terminal, drive to Victoria ($150 for two people, standard vehicle and reservation, allow 4.5 hours)
• Most luxurious: Catch a seaplane flight from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria ($250 minimum per person, 45 minutes, note baggage limits)

Before making any decisions, however, please check vehicle rental prices first. One-way rentals can be very expensive.

In my research, I found Victoria to Calgary vehicle rentals to be significantly cheaper than Vancouver to Calgary ($500-800 less). Depending on your requirements, this may not be the case for you.

If you choose not to pick up a rental vehicle until Victoria, this can save both money and stress.

Navigating Vancouver traffic and the ferry loading process can be difficult, especially if you’re struggling with jet lag.

For all of the above options, I would highly recommend reserving ferry and other transportation tickets in advance.

For the best things to do in Victoria, check out the day 3 description below.

Where to stay in Victoria

Budget We stayed at the Ocean Island Inn on our very first visit to Victoria. This well-priced hostel is in a great central location and there is a good mix of rooms (some private)

Mid-range The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites is almost next door to the Legislature building (super walkable to everywhere). This hotel is particularly good for larger groups and families

Luxury Of course, the most impressive place to stay in Victoria is the Fairmont Empress Hotel . This legendary property is right on the harbour, with some rooms offering direct views

Day 3: Victoria

Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and is British Columbia’s capital city.

Set around a picturesque inner harbour and featuring elegant colonial architecture, Victoria is one of the most beautiful cities around.

Victoria isn’t a place stuck in the past, however, with the downtown streets hosting hip cafes, boutiques and pubs

Best things to do in Victoria

• The BC Legislature Building is one of Victoria’s most iconic buildings. Explore the beautiful grounds or take a tour of the interior. Alternatively, join a historical tour of Victoria
• Can’t wait for Tofino to see whales? Join a whale watching tour from Victoria’s inner harbour! There is the potential to see orcas as well as humpback whales. Choose between a Zodiac or regular boat tour
• Treat yourself to afternoon tea at the elegant Fairmont Empress Hotel . It may not be a cheap activity but it’s a one-of-a-kind Victoria experience
• Take a walk to Fisherman’s Wharf (15-20 minutes), a floating village located on the Inner Harbour. It’s a great place to browse and eat fish and chips. There is a water taxi service as well
• For a lot of visitors, colourful Butchart Gardens is a must-see while in Victoria. A shuttle service is available from downtown or it is also possible to visit as part of a Victoria sightseeing tour
• For something a little more active, consider a guided kayaking tour of the harbour

Not interested in visiting Victoria? Nature lovers may want to skip this city and prioritise visiting another area of Vancouver Island. I’ve shared some alternatives in a later section of this guide.

Day 4: Victoria to Tofino

Driving distance: 317km Driving time without activities : 4 hours 15 minutes

Today is the day to head to Vancouver Island’s wild West Coast. There is a lot to see on this journey! Plan to start early and spend around 7-8 hours travelling with half a dozen stops.

If you plan to pick up a vehicle rental in Victoria, allow some extra time in the morning for the check-out process.

Things to do between Victoria and Tofino

• Heading north, Highway 1 climbs and descends the 356m high summit of Malahat Mountain . Several viewpoints provide vistas of Saanich Inlet, the Saanich Peninsula, Salt Spring Island and the surrounding Salish Sea (10 minutes)
• Consider taking a detour to see one of the tallest free-standing timber rail trestle structures in the world – the Kinsol Trestle . It soars 44m above and 187m across the Koksilah River. The 2.5km return walk is very flat (allow 1.5 hours)
• For lunch, head to Cowichan Bay (colourful cafes and buildings on stilts) or Ladysmith (historic downtown)
• Closer to Nanaimo, make a quick stop at the roadside Petroglyph Provincial Park . There are a significant number of First Nation rock art carvings (petroglyphs) to see

• Turning onto Highway 4, the route is less busy but also much more twisty and narrow from here on
• Try to park at Cathedral Grove to see massive old-growth trees . It’s a busy place, so don’t panic if you can’t find a spot. You’ll get another chance on the way back
• Port Alberni is the largest service centre in this area. If you need to pick up groceries or supplies, do it here. Top up on gas as well. The phone signal is patchy after this point
• Highway 4 follows the edge of Sproat Lake before winding through several river valleys. If you need a break, head to Taylor River Rest Area . There is river access for swimming
• About 14km after the rest area is Wally Creek , also known as the Kennedy River Cascades. This rocky area features huge boulders smoothed by erosion
• The road starts to get very windy after this point. Eventually, you’ll reach the Tofino / Ucluelet junction . Turn right for Tofino

Where to stay in Tofino

For more information on where to stay in Tofino, check out our dedicated guide with tried and tested recommendations.

Budget Green Point is the only vehicle-accessible campground located in Pacific Rim National Park (other options are available in Tofino). The campsites are set in the forest above the beach. Competition for campsite reservations is fierce

Mid-range Ocean Village ‘s distinctive ‘beehive’ cabins sit right behind Mackenzie Beach, offering breathtaking perspectives of crashing waves and sunsets. Adventurous hikers can walk into Tofino from here

Luxury Tofino is well known for its luxurious beachfront resorts, such as Middle Beach Lodge (adults only) and Pacific Sands Beach Resort (dreamy floor-to-ceiling windows beach houses)

Day 5: Tofino

The small village of Tofino (pop. 2500) is perched on the very western edge of Vancouver Island. It is a gateway to natural coastal beauty characterised by long sandy beaches, old-growth temperate rainforest, misty mountains, rocky headlands and pounding surf.

Pacific Rim National Park protects a swathe of the coastline. This includes Long Beach, an appropriately named 16km stretch of golden sand backed by ancient forest. 

Things to do in Tofino

• Have time for just one guided tour while in Western Canada? Let it be a whale-watching trip in Tofino! There is the chance to see grey whales, orcas, humpbacks, sea otters and more. Be sure to reserve in advance
• For lunch, consider braving the line (which does disappear pretty fast) to get takeout at the legendary Tacofino truck . Alternatively, enjoy your meal with a view at the Pointe Restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn (we saw dolphins here)
• In the afternoon, take a walk on one of the many spectacular local beaches – my favourites are Cox Bay, Long Beach (national park pass required) and Florencia Bay (pass required)
• Feel like a short hike? There are so many options in and around Tofino!
• Whatever you do, be sure to plan your day so you can watch the sun disappear behind the ocean . Head to any beach!

Day 6: Tofino to Parksville

Driving distance: 170km Driving time without activities : 2 hours 30 minutes

Though some people may choose to drive all the way to Whistler in one day from Tofino, I would suggest stopping overnight in the Parksville area instead.

There are several reasons for this, with the first being that there are just so many great places to see between Tofino and Parksville. Second, this allows for an early departure on the ferry on day 7.

Things to do between Tofino and Parksville

• Start your day with a side trip to Ucluelet (20km return from Highway 4 junction). Tucked into a calm inlet, this small community has a less touristy feel than Tofino and is quieter too
• The Wild Pacific Trail is Ucluelet’s premier walking path, showcasing where the temperate rainforest meets the ocean. I’d recommend walking the 2.6 km Lighthouse Loop
• On the way back to the Highway 4 junction, check out the 15-20 minute Ancient Cedars Loop Trail. For such low effort, the rewards are surprisingly high with large 800+ year-old cedar trees appearing next to the trail almost immediately
• Want to see even more old-growth trees? The Giant Cedar Trail is located on the other side of the most twisty part of Highway 4. The 1.4km return trail features several huge cedar trees, some within just 500m of the road
• More petroglyphs can be viewed in Sproat Lake Provincial Park near Port Alberni. The 600m walk to the floating platform in front of the lakeside petroglyphs is almost completely flat
• On the other side of Port Alberni are Cathedral Grove (second chance to stop) and Little Qualicum Falls . A 3.2km loop trail showcases a series of waterfalls rushing through a dramatic, mossy gorge
• If waterfalls are your thing, make a detour to see Englishman River Falls . There is a 1.7km loop with two different viewpoints of the rushing river
• Finish your day with a trip to Rathtrevor Beach Park . This long beach is a mix of golden sand and pebbles and is breathtaking at any time of the year.

More details on these must-see places can be found in our detailed Nanaimo to Tofino road trip guide .

Where to stay in Parksville

Budget Rathtrevor Beach is one of BC’s most popular campgrounds and it’s easy to see why, with 250 spacious sites set under an old-growth forest canopy, all a short walk from the beach. Reservations are absolutely essential in summer

Mid-range Highly rated on Booking.com, the Tide’s Inn Motel is a convenient place for a stopover in Parksville. The nicely renovated property is close to the beach. Guests receive a free round of mini-golf

Luxury Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort is a great choice, with beautifully modern condo-style suites just steps away from the beach. The resort is set on 10 acres of land and boasts a pool and hot tub

Day 7: Parksville to Whistler

Driving distance: Driving time without activities :

Back to the mainland! It is an easy 35 minute (37km) drive from Parksville to the ferry in Nanaimo. The Departure Bay Terminal is the most convenient for Whistler.

As previously mentioned, I would highly recommend having a reservation to ensure you have a spot on a s pecific ferry crossing . Plan for an early sailing to make the most of the day (10-11am).

Be sure to arrive at the terminal within the time stated on your ferry reservation confirmation (usually 60 to 30 minutes before departure). The ferry crossing takes 1 hour 40 minutes. 

Things to do between Parksville and Whistler

• Travelling alongside Howe Sound, an ocean fjord, and between huge mountain ranges, the Sea to Sky Highway (99) is wonderfully scenic
• Porteau Cove is an ideal first stop to stretch and get your bearings. Enjoy the ocean views and take a walk on the pier
• Shannon Falls is one of BC’s highest waterfalls (335m). The first viewpoint is situated just a five-minute walk from the parking lot
• If you’re curious about what lies at the top of the mountains above the highway, take the Sea to Sky Gondola to find out. Breathtaking vistas of the ocean and surrounding mountains await!
• The small town of Squamish is just a little further up the highway. The dramatic Stawamus Chief , a huge granite monolith, can be seen from downtown. Stop for a late lunch or to get food supplies
• Last stop before Whistler is Brandywine Falls. Allow 20-30 minutes to walk the easy 1km return trail to the viewpoint
• Cool off with a swim in Alta Lake in Whistler. Note that parking is limited so walk or take the bus if you can (#10, #20, #25 BC Transit buses)
• For something more active, consider the Whistler Train Wreck hike or Lost Lake
• In the evening, explore Whistler’s alpine-themed village and take a photo with the huge Olympic Rings

Where to stay in Whistler

Budget The Pangea Pod Hotel is situated right in the heart of the action. For camping, head to Riverside RV Resort or Nairn Falls Provincial Park (north of Whistler)

Mid-range Whistler Village Inn & Suites offers comfortable surroundings in a central but surprisingly quiet location. The Pinnacle Hotel is a good alternative

Luxury Highly rated for the gorgeous property and spacious rooms, the Four Seasons is a particularly special place to stay in Whistler. There is a walking path to the village centre

Day 8: Whistler to Kamloops

Driving distance: 379km Driving time without activities : 4 hours

Highway 99 continues beyond Whistler and through the spectacular Garibaldi Ranges.

The lush mountain scenery gives way to a contrasting, notably drier ecosystem in the latter part of the journey.

The day concludes in Kamloops, located within British Columbia’s arid grasslands.

Things to do between Whistler and Kamloops

• Nairn Falls , located 25 minutes north of Whistler, is a must-see attraction. The viewpoint is accessible via a 3km round-trip hike from the parking lot
• Enjoy morning coffee or lunch in Pemberton , a charming village surrounded by mountains
• The beautiful and very popular Joffre Lakes are located along this stretch of highway. A day pass, that can only be secured 2 days in advance, is required. The hike is 500m one way to the first lake, 4km to the middle lake, and 5km to the upper lake
• Beyond Duffy Lake , the landscape starts to change dramatically. Stop in Lillooet to take it all in (pick up some treats from the bakery too!)
• There is a great viewpoint/rest area 30 minutes west of Kamloops

Where to stay in Kamloops

Budget Paul Lake Provincial Park has a charming forested campground within walking distance of sandy beaches. The park is 25km from Kamloops

Mid-range Kamloops’ best value accommodation is found at… Canadas Best Value Inn (seriously!) The downtown Plaza Hotel is another reliable option

Luxury For upscale lodgings in Kamloops’ downtown area, consider a stay at the Delta Hotel . The location is convenient for restaurants and highway access

Day 9: Kamloops to Revelstoke

Driving distance: 212km Driving time without activities : 2 hours 30 minutes

Located in British Columbia’s grasslands region, the landscape around Kamloops is quite different to anything else you will see on this BC Coast and Rockies road trip.

But big adventures await in the mountains, with the Monashees and Selkirks being your first destination.

I don’t have that many recommendations for must-see stops between Kamloops and Revelstoke – plan to spend most of your time in Revelstoke itself.

Things to do between Kamloops and Revelstoke

• Monte Creek Winery is worth a look if you pass after 11am
• A good lunch stop is the lakeside town of Salmon Arm . The DeMille’s Farm Market sells fresh produce from the Shuwap region throughout the summer months
• D Dutchmen Dairy is a farm farm just east of Sicamous. Stop here for homemade ice cream, cheese and milk. Be aware that it does get very busy around lunchtime
• The drive along Highway 1 from Sicamous to Revelstoke is beautiful (lakes, soaring mountains) but there are not many places to stop
• One of our favourite rest areas is the Last Spike , a historical site celebrating the completion of the railway connecting eastern and western Canada
• Arriving in Revelstoke in the early afternoon, I’d suggest making the most of the day with a scenic drive on the 26km long Meadows in the Sky Parkway into the subalpine of Mount Revelstoke National Park (park pass required)
• Travelling with kids? You may want to prioritise visiting Revelstoke Mountain Resort instead, home of the 42km/h Pipe Mountain Coaster
• In Revelstoke, enjoy exploring the historic downtown area. It’s one of my favourite mountain towns in BC, with plenty of great shops and restaurants. The town is surrounded by the Monashee and Selkirk ranges

Where to stay in Revelstoke

Budget Snowforest Campground in Mount Revelstoke Park is convenient for the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. Alternatively, try Martha Creek Provincial Park

Mid-range We have stayed at the Swiss Chalet Motel several times. The property offers excellent value for families and larger groups. Basic breakfast included and the property is only 10-15 minute walk to downtown

Luxury The stylish rooms at the historical Regent Hotel are surprisingly spacious. The complimentary breakfast buffet is the best I’ve had anywhere in Canada

Day 10: Revelstoke to Golden

Driving distance: 148km Driving time without activities : 2 hours

Time to head further into the mountains! The surrounding valley slopes get steeper and steeper as the highway heads into Glacier National Park. Multiple snowsheds and tunnels provide avalanche protection for the road in winter.

Keen hikers will find plenty to do between Revelstoke and Golden. If not, plan to spend most of your day in Golden instead.

Like Revelstoke, Golden is a small town surrounded by mountains. In Golden’s case, the bordering ranges are the Selkirks and Purcells (the Columbia Mountains) and the Rockies.

Please note that there is a time zone change, from Pacific to Mountain Time, just beyond the eastern boundary of Glacier National Park. Prepare to lose one hour today.

There is also major construction in this area. We have often been stopped on the road for 30-40 minutes. There is no detour.

Things to do between Revelstoke and Golden

• Admire huge trees and beautiful forest on the Giant Cedars Boardwalk in Mount Revelstoke National Park (closed in 2023 but hopefully open in 2024)
• Discover a taste of Glacier National Park on two short trails – Hemlock Grove Boardwalk (350m) and the Rockgarden Trail (430m)
• For a longer (but still easy) hike, head to the Meeting of the Waters Trail (3.3km loop, starts from the Illecillewaet Trailhead)
• Most of the other hikes in this area of the park are very steep and require most of the day to explore (such as the Glacier Crest Trail )
• The highest section of Highway 1 is at Roger’s Pass, with an elevation of 1327m. The free Discovery Centre here is well worth the stop
• Before leaving Glacier Park, consider the very short but steep hike to beautiful Bear Creek Falls (1km)
• If you do get into Golden early, consider heading east through town to Wapta Falls in Yoho National Park. The 3.2km return trail is mostly flat
• Families and thrill seekers may prefer to explore the Golden Skybridge , host to Canada’s highest suspension bridges, or the adventurous Via Ferrata course at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

Where to stay in Golden

Budget The pleasant municipal campground backs onto the Kicking Horse River. An alternative is the Kicking Horse Campground in Yoho National Park

Mid-range Golden has a plethora of motels and chain hotels to choose from, with popular options being the Holiday Inn and Ramada . We’ve stayed at the Ramada twice

Luxury Moberly Lodge ‘s quiet, spotlessly clean rooms are a welcome sight after a day on the road. Outside, there are stunning views and a hot tub, ideal for a relaxing end-of-the-day soak

Day 11: Golden to Banff

Driving distance (via Emerald Lake, Yoho Valley Road): 187km Driving time without activities : 2 hours 45 minutes

Today is dedicated to exploring Yoho National Park , the most underrated park in the Rockies. It’s a little less busy than Banff but still has plenty to offer visitors.

Get ready to see some of the most spectacular natural wonders in British Columbia!

Things to do between Golden and Banff

• Head directly to Emerald Lake . It is just as beautiful as the name implies, with gorgeously turquoise water. Emerald Lake is the most popular place to visit in Yoho, so try to get here before 10.30am
• Enjoy the views at Emerald Lake, rent a canoe ($90/hour) or walk the family-friendly 5.2km loop trail around the lakeshore. Allow around 2 hours for the latter
• On the way back to Highway 1, make a stop at the Natural Bridge , where the mighty (and very cold!) Kicking Horse River has carved out a natural limestone bridge through erosion
• Consider grabbing lunch at the excellent Truffle Pigs in Field . They also have ice-cream
• After lunch, take a scenic drive on Yoho Valley Road . Please note that this road is open from late June until mid-October only and has no services or phone signal. There are several tight switchbacks – trailers and large RVs are not permitted
• Takakkaw Falls , British Columbia’s second-tallest waterfall, sits at the end of Yoho Valley Road
• If you have an additional day to spend in Yoho, I would highly recommend a full-day hike on the Iceline Trail or a Burgess Shale guided tour
• The Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint is the last stop in Yoho (and British Columbia!) Depending on timing, you may be lucky and see a train pass through this impressive structure
• Depending on the time, you may consider driving part-way up the Icefields Parkway as far as the Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint (100km return) via Peyto Lake and Bow Lake . This would free up time on another day
• If you have even more spare time, Kootenay National Park’s Marble Canyon (15 minutes drive) is well worth the detour

Where to stay in Banff

It’s no secret that Banff is not a cheap place to stay. If your budget doesn’t stretch to it, consider the nearby town of Canmore instead (still touristy but more of a local vibe, slightly lower prices).

Budget Our preferred Banff campground for tent camping is Tunnel Mountain Village 1 . The sites are relatively private and the campground is just a short bus ride away from downtown

Mid-range We rate the Moose Hotel & Suites as one of the best places to stay in Banff (walking distance to everywhere, rooftop hot tub). Nearby Canmore has more mid-range options

Luxury For a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Banff, consider the Fairmont Banff Springs or the Rimrock Resort . The latter has truly incredible views across Banff and the surrounding mountains

Day 12: Banff

There are so many different things to do in the picture-perfect mountain town of Banff and surrounding Banff National Park .

For many visitors, checking out spectacular Moraine Lake and Lake Louise is a priority. I’ve put them on the schedule for day 13. Of course, feel free to switch these days around to your own preferences.

I would recommend starting one of your full days in Banff with a trip to Johnston Canyon (32km, 35 minutes drive).

Suspended metal walkways provide secure passage through the deep gorge to a series of waterfalls. Johnston Canyon is usually very busy from 10am onwards so be sure to arrive at 9am or earlier.

Best things to do in and around Banff

• Drive the shores of Two Jack Lake and then cruise the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive (24km). Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Walk the shoreline trail or consider renting a canoe ($85/hour)
• The best free vehicle-accessible viewpoint is the Mt Norquay Lookout . It’s completely free and offers amazing vistas of Banff and surrounding peaks
• Thrill seekers will love the Via Ferrata course at Mt Norquay! The experience offers a safer way to experience climbing in the Rockies (and the views are AMAZING)
• Feel like a hike? The 2km uphill trail to the top of Tunnel Mountain is well worth the effort (300m elevation gain) as it ascends the slopes of this prominent landmark
• If that sounds like too much, reserve a spot on the Banff Gondola that ascends to the top of Sulphur Mountain . The views are simply spectacular. I’d recommend taking the bus (route 1) to avoid having to find parking at the gondola base
• Explore downtown Banff and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains while browsing the wide range of shops
• If the shopping area doesn’t appeal, take a walk along the Bow River to see the falls . If you have the time, visit the Surprise Lookout , which features views of the iconic Fairmont hotel

Day 13: Banff

It’s time to visit Banff National Park’s most famous lakes – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake . Please note that Moraine Lake is usually open from late May to early October only.

Since Moraine Lake is only accessible by bus and Lake Louise parking is very limited (and also $21/day!), there are two main options:

• Use the Parks Canada park-and-ride shuttle ($8) located at Lake Louise Ski Resort, 45 minutes drive from Banff. There are regular reservable buses to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with a Connector Shuttle.
• 8X Roam Transit bus from Banff to Lake Louise Lakeshore. This reservable express bus takes 55 minutes. The $25 Roam System Wide Pass includes access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle to Moraine Lake

Things to do around Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

In addition to spectacular lakeshore views, both lakes have great hiking opportunities.

• Lake Agnes is a very popular destination from Lake Louise, 7.4km return with 390m elevation gain (allow 2 to 2.5 hours, note that it is uphill almost the entire way)
• For a longer hike near Lake Louise, choose between the Lake Agnes/Big Beehive/Plain of Six Glaciers Loop (18km with 900m elevation gain) or a summit of Mount Piran (13km return with 900m elevation gain)
• In the Moraine Lake area, consider the Consolation Lakes trail . Starting just past the Rockpile, this 5.8km return hike features views of high alpine meadows, mountain peaks and the Quadra Glacier
• Didn’t manage to visit Peyto Lake on day 11? Drive the first part of the Icefields Parkway today to check it out (along with Bow Lake )

Day 14: Banff to Calgary

Driving distance: 137km Driving time without activities : 1 hour 40 minutes

All good things must come to an end, including this epic 2 week BC Coast and Rockies road trip.

The drive to Calgary is straightforward and relatively short. It features some impressive mountain views as well.

Depending on your onward plans, there are many options for places to stop on the way to Calgary. Alternatively, you could spend the morning in Banff and explore more of this spectacular national park.

Things to do between Banff and Calgary

• Consider a stop in Canmore , another beautiful mountain town. There is a great choice of restaurants for lunch
• There are some excellent hiking trails within easy reach of Canmore. Grassi Lakes is one of our favourite short hikes in the area. Ha Ling Peak is a more challenging option
• Closer to Calgary, head to Winsport for some fun family-friendly activities. Kids will love the luge karting

2 week BC Coast and Rockies road trip: top tips

Before heading out on your trip, take note of the following advice:

Money saving advice

• This itinerary focuses on free activities over paid ones. I have, however, mentioned half a dozen paid attractions which I think offer one-of-a-kind experiences
• Gas is significantly cheaper in Alberta than in British Columbia , even in resort towns like Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. Be mindful of where you gas up at the end of this road trip
• A national park pass is required to visit the Pacific Rim, Jasper, Banff, Yoho, Glacier and Revelstoke national parks. If you plan to spend seven or more days in the parks (very possible with this itinerary), a Discovery pass provides better value
• One-way car hire can be very expensive ($2000+ for a two-week trip). As mentioned in the post, consider taking the bus to Victoria and hiring a vehicle there instead. This also avoids having to drive in Vancouver
• If a one-way car hire proves too expensive, you’ll need to start and finish in the same location. Our two week Western Canada road trip begins and ends in Vancouver but doesn’t visit Vancouver Island

The best way to save money while touring Western Canada is to camp.

• National park campgrounds (Parks Canada) average $30-50/night plus $11.50 reservation fee
• Provincial park campgrounds (BC Parks) average $20-40/night plus $6/night reservation fee
• Private campgrounds average $30-70/night

The downside is that you’ll need camping equipment. An alternative option is to rent an RV, so you can sleep in your vehicle.

It is possible to buy relatively cheap camping gear and accessories at Canadian stores like Walmart. A full set-up with an entry-level tent (4 person), sleeping bags (2), sleeping mats (2), stove and other essential supplies would cost around $500CAD.

The campgrounds mentioned in this itinerary are very popular and, as such, travellers should reserve well in advance.

• Reservations for vehicle-accessible national park campgrounds usually open in January for the following summer. The exact launch dates are usually revealed during the preceding December. Parks Canada reservation website
• Reservations for vehicle-accessible provincial park campgrounds in British Columbia operate with a four-month rolling window . So if you want to book for 7th August, the date will be available to book on 7th April. BC Parks reservation website
• Missed an important reservation? Check often for cancellations or use CampNab do the work for you

Alternative road trip itineraries

While we think this 2 week road trip itinerary provides a great overview of the BC Coast and Rockies, we realise that it may not be perfect for everyone.

It is easy to adapt the basic itinerary to suit your own preferences. This features some suggestions of how you can easily do that.

Nature focused 2 week BC Coast and Rockies road trip

If Victoria doesn’t sound like your cup of tea (we’re not huge city people either), consider focusing on the mid-Vancouver Island area only.

Take the ferry to Nanaimo instead, spend an extra night in Tofino and an extra night in Parksville.

Use the extra time in Parksville to drive up to Campbell River via Courtenay and Comox . This offers the chance to explore more beautiful beaches and waterfalls. There are some great hiking trails in this area as well.

2 week BC Coast and Rockies road trip without Whistler

There’s no getting around it, Whistler is not a cheap place to stay.

If it isn’t in your budget and/or Whistler just doesn’t interest you, it is possible to drive directly from Parksville to Kamloops in one day via Highway 1 or 5. It will be a long driving day (be sure to get an early ferry) but it would be a money saver.

Doing this detour would mean missing the fabulous Sea to Sky drive. For details on the best things to see driving between Vancouver and Kamloops, check out our Highway 1 road trip guide .

With the extra night ‘saved,’ consider staying an additional night in Tofino or Revelstoke.

16 day Vancouver Island / Canadian Rockies road trip

If you have a few more days to play with, I’d highly recommend extending this road trip with a trip to Jasper in Alberta.

Jasper is a quieter (but still very popular), more northern version of Banff, located at the end of the spectacular Icefields Parkway.

The easiest way to do this is to add two (or even three) nights in Jasper after Golden. Visit a handful of places on the Icefields Parkway on the way up and then visit another half a dozen on the way down.

In Jasper, I would recommend visiting Maligne Lake (Spirit Island) , Maligne Canyon and the Pyramid Lake area . Our Canadian Rockies road trip loop guide explains more about the best things to do in Jasper.

25+ Amazing Vancouver Island Waterfalls You Must Visit The Best Hot Springs in BC: Complete Guide + Map Where to Find Big Trees on Vancouver Island Campbell River to Port Hardy Road Trip Guide: Best Places to Stop Where to See the Salmon Run in British Columbia

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BC Road Trips To Check Off Your Bucket List In 2022

By Meagan Gill

Ready, set, road trip! Pack your bags, gather your friends and plot adventures for 2022 by checking these BC road trips off your bucket list.

RELATED:  5 Hidden Hikes In Metro Vancouver That Are Worth The Drive

BC Road Trips

Hot springs circle route.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tourism Radium (@tourismradium)

This stunning road trip takes you on an unforgettable journey with every mile. This one is all about relaxation, taking you to the best hot springs in the province. Soak up the scenery and the springs just outside of Kimberley, at Lussier Hot Springs before moving on to the Fairmont Hot Springs and Radium Hot Springs .

From there you continue your loop around with a stop at Halcyon Hot Springs, Nakusp Hot Springs and Ainsworth Hot Springs. But you can start and end wherever you choose—the entire journey is comprised of 13 natural hot springs along 530 miles.

The Great Northern Circle Route

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Danika Kroeker (@d_reese_k)

Set aside about 10 days for this road trip that travels through BC’s lush wilderness and passes by some of its greatest geological wonders.

It takes you through Prince George, Hudson’s Hope, Dawson Creek before heading into to Fort St. John and Watson Lake in the Yukon for a truly Northern experience.

The Sea-to-Sky Highway

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtUxWWAgn8a/

Easily one of the most scenic routes you can drive along in BC. The sea-to-sky takes you from Vancouver through to Squamish and onto Whistler.

The region has plenty to take in all seasons of the year—from hiking the Stawamus Chief to soaking in the many pools of the Scandinave Spa. Of course, if you’re into skiing and snowboarding—it’s a no-brainer to hit up Whistler for a weekend.

The Pacific Marine Circle Route

https://www.instagram.com/p/BanJM1fnp08/

Soak up the coastal side of BC with this route starting in Victoria headed for Sooke, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, Duncan and back.

You can do this scenic tour in a day. But it’s best to give yourself 2-3 days to really enjoy all there is to see. From panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca to the serene Saanich Peninsula—it has a lot to offer.

The Coastal Circle Route

https://www.instagram.com/p/Btutt5XlFLp/

Another road trip soaking up the island life. Take a ferry to Vancouver Island and venture off to Sidney, Victoria, Duncan, Chemainus, Ladysmith and Comox.

Then you hop on another ferry to the Sunshine Coast where you go from Lund to Sechelt and then Gibsons.

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How to plan and enjoy three epic BC summer road trips

Given the high demand for travel this summer and the surging cost of living (including rising costs of gas, food and more), it’s important to prepare before your next trip. Here’s our ultimate prep guide for BC adventuring and beyond, including tips on how to save money with your BCAA Membership. Happy road tripping!

Trip planning tips

Take more time to plan this summer. BC tourism businesses have re-opened, but it’s still not business as usual - many have adjusted their schedules and policies to ensure that you and their staff stay safe. Some may still be operating at a reduced capacity, with limited hours, or require advanced bookings.

• Save up to 25% by booking with your BCAA Membership at various BCAA Rewards Partner hotels .
• Find campgrounds through Discover Camping (BC Parks), BC’s seven national parks via Parks Canada , and rustic sites through Recreation Sites and Trails . You can also see the full list of campgrounds in BC on this map .
• Book RV rentals via CanaDream where BCAA Members save 5%.

...and be sure to check cancellation and refund policies before you book.

Get your vehicle road trip ready

• Avoid an unexpected breakdown with these 10 ways to get road trip ready .
• If your car has been sitting for a while or just needs some love, play it safe and book an appointment with one of our automotive experts at a BCAA Auto Service Centre . BCAA Members save 10% off the labour on brake repair, steering & chassis, suspension, wheel alignments and fluid flushes.
• Check your BCAA Membership plan to make sure you’ve got the right coverage in case of a breakdown. BCAA will help keep you moving, and with a Plus or Premier BCAA Membership , you’ll get up to 160/320km of towing distance. Be sure to upgrade or make any changes before you leave by logging in to your BCAA Online Account .
• Make sure your car insurance is renewed and your documents are in your vehicle. Consider getting a quick quote for BCAA Optional Car Insurance to see how much you could save on your collision, comprehensive and extended third party liability coverage.
• If you're travelling in an RV or recreational trailer, avoid common breakdowns with our RV road trip prep checklist and make sure you've added RV coverage to your BCAA Membership before you leave.
• Don't own a vehicle? Book an Evo for short trips around Vancouver and Victoria, or adventures to places like Whistler, Chemainus and Manning Park. Evo's per minute rate covers the gas, insurance, parking and unlimited kilometres. Bonus: BCAA Members get free Evo Membership, 60 free minutes and save 10%.

Plan your route and call ahead

• Stay safe and save time by checking road, ferry or weather conditions on your BCAA Mobile App before you go. Watch for any new health advisories , and map out your route with our online  TripTik® road trip planner.
• If you drive a gas-powered car, BCAA Members can now save 3¢/litre on fuel and more at participating Shell stations* . You’ll also get 10% off car washes and products in-store! If you're driving an electric vehicle, plan your route by finding charging stations across BC at ChargeHub.com .
• Contact the local business(es) you plan on visiting. Call restaurants and attractions to confirm their hours of operation, understand capacity limits and make reservations in advance.
• Have a backup plan in case your first choice isn't possible. With so many travellers around BC this summer, activities may take longer than usual, or places may be at capacity when you arrive.
• Speak with local Visitor Centre staff to get advice on local attractions and adventures, and to learn how to support local businesses.

Pack smart and be prepared for emergencies

• Bring an extra set of keys and keep them with you when you’re outside your car.
• Don't forget the essentials: bring lots of water, your phone charger and a backup battery pack - they’ll all be critical in the event of a breakdown.
• Keep an emergency kit in the car including a first aid kit, warm clothing and blankets, a flashlight, windshield fluid, pylons, a high vis vest, and a fully charged portable battery charger. You can also order an all-in-one F.A.S.T. emergency kit where  BCAA Members save 20%.  

Take us with you!

Pro Tip: your BCAA Mobile App is the ultimate travel companion. In addition to helping you get faster Roadside Assistance, you can get real-time travel conditions and savings from BCAA Rewards Partners along the way. Learn more about how to get the most out of your BCAA Mobile App.

Three fantastic BC road trips

Want some travel inspiration? Discover (or rediscover!) BC with these three amazing road trip ideas:

Road Trip #1: Visit the beautiful towns and coasts of Vancouver Island

5-7 days, 500 km one way from Victoria

Make the most of summer by visiting some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, forests and waterfalls. Heading north out of Victoria, you’ll travel through Duncan, Nanaimo, Port Hardy, Parksville, the Comox Valley, Campbell River and Telegraph Cove. Highlights include:

• In Victoria, take in the historic sights and delicious offerings with this guide  and see the Victoria Butterfly Gardens  where BCAA Members save 10% on admission and the incredibly immersive IMAX® movie experience where BCAA Members save 15% on single admission 2D films.
• As you pass through Duncan, the “ City of Totems ,” stop to appreciate the beautifully carved totems of the Cowichan First Nation, who have called the area home for thousands of years. In Chemainus, explore the 40+ giant murals .
• Sip your way along the Vancouver Island Ale Trail (as long as you have a designated driver) or snack your way along the Nanaimo Bar Trail .
• Hit the incredible beaches between Ucluelet and Tofino .
• Gorge on delicious meals at these 10+ restaurants and food experiences including Pluvio in Ucluelet.
• Walk the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge in Campbell River.
• Get to know the wildlife that call BC home with a tour from Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours or Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure .
• Continue north to immerse yourself in rugged landscapes, explore Indigenous culture and view wildlife along the way. Explore Telegraph Cove’s boardwalk village (it’s all on stilts) and check out Eco-adventures in Port Hardy like a kayak , seaplane or wildlife tour .
• Spend the night at the Kwa’lilas Hotel , an Indigenous-owned and operated hotel that uses local cedar designed to resemble a traditional big house with a smoke hole at the top of the building.

Road Trip #2: The Great Northern Circle Route

9+ days, 3,000+ km from Prince George

This epic, rugged, beautiful tour takes you northeast from Prince George up to Chetwynd, Tumbler Ridge, Dawson Creek, Fort St. John, Fort Nelson, Jade City, Smithers and Fort St. James. You’ll experience ancient forests, volcano-formed mountains and incredible waterfalls, fishing, mountain biking and camping.

Highlights:

• In Prince George, you’ve got to check out The Exploration Place Museum & Science Centre for its dinosaur models, interactive exhibits and steam engine train ride.
• An hour east of Prince George, you’ll find the Ancient Forest/Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park , the only inland temperate rainforest in the world and home to western redcedars that are 1,000+ years old.
• In Chetwynd, check out the famous chainsaw carvings along the streets.
• At Tumbler Ridge, go on a Dinosaur Trackway Tour where you’ll hike to see dinosaur footprints at the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark .
• Love to fish? Head to Charlie Lake outside Fort St. John , to angle for trout, walleye, Arctic grayling and northern pike.
• Heading north out of Fort Nelson, watch for bison and Stone’s sheep, then camp at beautiful jade green lakes in the mountains at Stone Mountain Provincial Park and Muncho Lake Provincial Park .
• From Tatogga Lake near Stewart, see the geologically unique Mount Edziza , a spectacular volcanic landscape that includes lava flows, basalt plateaus, cinder fields and cinder cones.
• South of Smithers, visit Burns Lake and the Lakes District which offers 300+ wilderness fishing lakes and world class mountain bike trails.

Road Trip #3: Explore Highway 3’s Rugged Parks, Culinary Bounty & Mountain Towns

4-10 days, 247 km from Vancouver

For this epic road trip, travel the Crowsnest Highway through Manning Park, historic railway trails, the heart of wine country and some beloved BC mountain towns. Highlights include:

• Heading east from the Lower Mainland, make a relaxing detour to Harrison Hot Springs .
• Camp (drive-in or backcountry) and explore the wilderness in E.C. Manning Park Provincial Park .
• Spend a sunny afternoon floating down the Similkameen River (you can pick up a rubber tube from Hedley Country Market) or having a river-side picnic with goodies from one of the many local fruit stands.
• Enjoy wine tastings in the Similkameen Valley and Keremeos .
• Take a dip in Christina Lake , which gets its reputation as Canada’s warmest thanks to hot springs deep in the lake.
• See the Sculpturewalk in Castlegar , the ‘sculpture capital of Canada.’
• Looking for a unique place to spend the night? Sleep in a railcar in Cranbrook.
• Enjoy adventure at your own pace in Fernie: take a guided rafting tour , go hiking or biking , or take in scenic mountaintop views via the chairlift at Fernie Alpine Resort .

You can map out your road trips with our online  TripTik® road trip planner, and for even more great BC road trip ideas, visit HelloBC.com .

Follow BCAA's Facebook , Instagram and Twitter as we share updates and trip ideas for your summer and beyond.  

Not a BCAA Member yet? Join today and get BC’s Best Roadside Assistance for less than $8 a month. Plus, subscribe to our BCAA Member Rewards e-news to learn about exclusive BCAA offers, contests, deals and news.

Have a great summer exploring beautiful BC & beyond!

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• Best Small Towns For An Interior British Columbia Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

Crawford Bay/Balfou r

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Must Sees on a Southern BC Road Trip

There is a lot to see in our province, and a southern BC road trip is a great way to see many amazing locations.

One of my favourite drives across British Columbia is the meandering Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3), which extends from Hope all the way through to Alberta.

While the scenery alone should captivate you along this southern BC road trip, there is also something unique to see in each town or city along the way.

You can start your journey at any point. However, to help keep this post organized, we will be moving west to east across BC. This has us starting on Highway 1 in Vancouver, connecting to Highway 3 in Hope, and carrying on to the Alberta border.

Vancouver offers a plethora of family fun, but here are a few of our favourites:

• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – One of the more popular tourist attractions in Vancouver. If you go, you’ll see why!
• Stanley Park – There is so much to see and do in Stanley Park it’s hard to choose a favourite. You can walk the seawall, visit the animals at the farmyard, get up close and personal with sea creatures at the Aquarium , view totem poles, and/or swim in the heated freshwater pool at Second Beach.
• Science World – Vancouver’s best museum for children
• PNE/Playland – The annual Fair at the PNE, with world-class shows and family fun, is on exhibit for 17 days starting mid-August. Playland, one of the most popular attractions of the PNE, is a 15-acre amusement park open from April through October.
• Stay in Vancouver – Here’s a great list of Hotels in Vancouver

Langley / Aldergrove (Fraser Valley area)

About a 40-minute drive east of Vancouver (traffic dependent) you will come to the Fraser Valley. Here you will find heritage sites and exotic wildlife.

• Fort Langley National Historic Site – Inside the walls of this former fur trade post, timber buildings recreate the rugged 1800’s.
• Greater Vancouver Zoo – If you are looking to view some wild and exotic animals, head to BC’s largest zoo located in Aldergrove.
• Stay in Langley – If you are wanting to stay overnight in Langley or its surrounding areas, check here: Langley Hotels

Chilliwack / Cultus Lake

Chilliwack is a community that bills itself as the “Great Outside”. The towering mountains provide many opportunities for fantastic hikes, while the lakes and rivers provide locals and tourists alike with cool places to swim on a hot summer day.

• Cultus Lake Waterpark – BC’s biggest water park, and where you will find some of the most extreme waterslides you will ever ride.
• Cultus Lake Adventure Park – Located just across the street from the waterpark, this adventure park is where you will find one-of-a-kind rides and attractions.
• Chilliwack River Rafting – Try river rafting for a wet and wild adventure down the Tamahi.
• Stay in Chilliwack – check out these hotels in Chilliwack

Hope / Manning Park

As a meeting point of highways travelling in all directions, Hope is a gateway destination to BC’s most diverse scenery.

• Hike to the Othello Tunnels in the  Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park .
• Visit the marmots in Manning Park – The kids will be thrilled at how friendly these fuzzy little creatures are, but please remember they are still wild animals!
• The Hope Slide Memorial – View the largest landslide ever recorded in Canada. It’s well worth pulling off the main highway to take in this massive natural disaster site.

This small town has a beautiful setting rich in history and heritage sites.

• Princeton & District Museum & Archives – This informative museum, with a wide range of historic collections reflecting Princeton’s history, has kid-friendly displays they can actually touch.
• Stay in Princeton – check out these hotels in and around Princeton

Keremeos is a vibrant agricultural community located in the beautiful Similkameen Valley.

• Grist Mill and Gardens – is where you will find the last remaining pioneer flour mill in the West. This heritage site also offers gardens to explore, an exhibit building, apple orchard, gift shop, campground and restaurant.
• Stay in Keremeos – check out these hotels in and around Keremeos

Canada’s only desert!

• You can’t go to this desert town without swimming in the warmest waters in Canada. So Osoyoos Lake is the place to be!
• Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad – A world-class miniature fantasy world showcasing the biggest little European railroad in Canada.
• Rattlesnake Canyon – A western mining town themed amusement park only a block away from the lake.
• Stop at a fresh fruit stand and/or winery – Along with being known for great wine, Osoyoos attracts foodies from around the world because of its delectable local fruits and veggies.
• Spotted Lake – this lake is a sacred site to the local indigenous nation and is a sight to see!
• Stay here – check out these hotels in Osoyoos

Grand Forks

Grand Forks is a small town with a rich and diverse past.

• The City Park – Stretch your legs and walk along the Kettle River while on the ‘Spirit Trail’ (previously known as the TransCanada Trail). Or perhaps let the kids burn off some steam at the beautiful play park canopied by gorgeous deciduous trees. The City Park is located in the downtown core, besides the Grand Forks Municipal Campground.
• Stay here – check out these hotels in Grand Forks

Castlegar is a small town steeped in the heritage and culture of the Doukhobors.

• Zuckerberg Island – Visit this Heritage Park with a swinging bridge, artifacts and buildings to explore.
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre – The Doukhobors played an important role in shaping the social and economic structure of the Kootenay region from 1908 – 1938, and the Discovery Centre acts as an excellent representation of the times.
• Stay here – check out these hotels in and around Castlegar

A perfect place for anyone in need of a wholesome home-away-from-home experience.

• Buy local food and drink – Drive throughout the scenic Creston Valley and stop in at farms offering gate sales. Or wet your whistle at one or all three wineries, and then hop over to the Columbia Brewery for a tour, and get your picture taken with the Sasquatch.
• Wildlife Management Area – Glide through the ponds and channels on a guided canoe tour, or walk along the kilometres of flat-top dyke trails with opportunities to view a large diversity of wildlife.
• Stay here – check out these hotels in and around Creston

Cranbrook (area)

Home to seven championship golf courses within 20 minutes of town, Cranbrook is known as a world-class golf destination.

• Go Golfing at Mission Hills – Try the three-hole mini-Mission geared towards families.
• Walk a historic neighbourhood – Take a self-guided walking tour of the historic Baker Hill district in Cranbrook, viewing elegant heritage homes of the 20th century.
• Fort Steele (16km Northeast of Cranbrook) – Step back in time in one of the most important heritage attractions in BC. While at Fort Steele enjoy old-time farming demonstrations, ice-cream making, train rides, horse-drawn wagon tours and gold panning. As well, watch live theatre performances and observe the museum displays.
• Stay here – check out these hotels in Cranbrook

The scenery here is breathtaking. The towering mountains offer a sharp contrast to the quaint ski town nestled below.

• Walk around the cute town and take in the outdoor adventure vibe
• Zipline & Aerial Park – Head to Fernie’s Alpine Resort for a treetop adventure. There is even a mini obstacle course for younger kids.
• Bull River Horseback Adventures – Ride through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. Half-day, full-day, and over-night trips available.
• Stay here – check out the hotels in Fernie

Sparwood is the last town you come to in BC before entering Alberta through the Crowsnest Pass.

• View the Titan – See the world’s largest truck located in the heart of Sparwood.
• Explore a Mine – Learn about the efficiency of 21st-century coal mining with a tour of one of Canada’s largest open-pit mines.
• Stay here – there aren’t too many, but check out the hotels in Sparwood

So, are you ready to take a Southern BC road trip yet?

If you feel like I have missed anything important or fun things to do along this Southern BC road trip route, please let me know in the comments.

Happy travelling!

To keep this post handy for future reference, don’t forget to save this image to Pinterest:

Meet Kim Parcher, the creative mind and driving force behind Vancouver Island View. Kim's passion for experience-based travel and her talent for sharing valuable information have made her a dedicated niche blogger and freelance writer since 2016. Her unwavering dedication to unlocking the secrets of Vancouver Island, her home since 2009, has made her an undisputed authority in the realm of immersive exploration of the island.

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Thank you for posting information and links all these cool little stops to check out. I just happened to stumble on this and it’s exactly what we were planning for our summer trip!

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The Ultimate Kootenays BC Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Kootenays

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Historic Downtown Fernie

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

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

Some things to enjoy while you’re here include:

Cranbrook History Centre

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

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

Play Mini Golf

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

St.Eugene Mission

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

Take an Interpretive Tour

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

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

Casino of the Rockies

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

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

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

Some activities we can recommend include:

Kimberley Underground Mining Railway

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

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

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

Tour the Downtown Platzl

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

Visit the Marysville Waterfall

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

Fairmont Hot Springs

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

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

Fairmont Hot Springs Lodge

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

Mountainside Golfing

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

Invermere and Panorama

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

ATV’ing and Snowmobiling

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

Kayaking and Canoeing

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

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

Radium Hot Springs

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

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

Some of the things we recommend doing here are:

Relax in the Hot Springs

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

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

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

Valley Zipline Adventures

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

Kootenay National Park

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

Want More BC Travel?

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

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

About Matthew G. Bailey

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

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The 5 Best Road Trips from Vancouver

Last update: December 5th, 2023 at 07:52 am

Affiliate Disclosure: This best road trip from Vancouver post also contains additional affiliate links.  For more information, please see our  Terms of Use  and  Privacy Policy . 

5 Best Road Trips from Vancouver

Looking for some ideas for BC road trips from Vancouver? I originally wrote this post during those dark Covid days when doing short road trips from Vancouver was our only travel option. Truth be told, while we were reluctant at first (we dream of far-flung lands), we totally fell in love with our home province of British Columbia and discovered so many gorgeous places that we might have overlooked otherwise.

Whether you are a local or come from abroad, I hope you find inspiration in this guide to 5 of the best road trips from Vancouver to take this summer, and beyond. Please use the following menu to find what you need quickly.

Table of Contents

BC Road Trip Tips

Book flexible accommodation s.

Consider Logistics

Consider the logistics of getting to your desired destination. Reservations on BC Ferries , for example, are often necessary during the busy summer season. (Be sure to check for sailing availability before booking your accommodations.) Alternatively, consider visiting places that you can drive directly to without relying on a ferry.

EV Chargers

If you are planning on driving an EV on road trips from Vancouver, plan those charging stops ahead of time around BC’s network of fast charging stations (DC). Download the EV charging station app in advance.

Keep in mind the fact that A/C consumes more juice from your battery and your range will drop. (I only bank on 2/3 of the range that my EV is registering.)

Check Road Conditions

Before you set out on Vancouver road trip, check your route on the  DriveBC website  for unexpected events that could result in delays (construction etc.).

5 BC Road Trips from Vancouver

1. the sea to sky – whistler road trip.

2-5 Nights (~250 to 300km) 

Considered one of the most scenic roads in Canada, the Sea to Sky highway offers some incredible coastal mountain scenery. It is perfect if you are looking for a 2 to 3 day road trip from Vancouver (although there is lots to do if you have more time). Check out all these great stops:

The town of Squamish provides an excellent base for adventurers with a wide array of outdoor pursuits. Visitors can indulge in rock climbing, white water rafting, hiking, kayaking and more.

For those who love a great view without a lot of effort, the Sea to Sky Gondola whisks you up a mountain in minutes. At the top, you can choose from several hikes, traverse the suspension bridge, or relax on the beautiful patio.

If you would prefer a good workout, you can also hike from the bottom of the gondola to the Sea-to-Sky lookout (3-4 hours). Then for a small fee ($19), you can take the gondola back down.

After exploring the great outdoors, Squamish has an abundance of craft distilleries and locally-run restaurants to enjoy in and around town.

Where to stay: Sunwolf Riverside Cabins – Unplug for a few days by booking a secluded cabin by river. While most sleep 2-3, their gorgeous Fisherman’s Cottage can sleep up to 6. The property is pet friendly (small fee). Sunwolf also has an excellent restaurant on the property – Fergie’s Cafe .

Here is a 1 minute video of Sunwolf Squamish:

Learn more at: Explore Squamish

See also:   Tripadvisor’s Top 15 Things to do in Squamish

Drive 45 minutes further north and you will arrive in the world class resort town of Whistler. Not only do you have great hikes, mountain biking, paddle boarding, caneoing and more, you also have access to a wide array of resort shops and lovely full-service hotels. Restaurants range from tasty food carts to award-winning fine dining.

Whether you want to have a laid back afternoon by the lake, or ride one of the longest ziplines in North America – there is something for everyone.

Where to stay:   The Nita Lake Lodge  is located right beside the lake of the same name and has gorgeous west coast-styled studio to 2 bedroom suites. If you prefer something right in Whistler Village, the Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel is a big favourite among visitors.

Learn more at: Tourism Whistler

Drive just a little further north (+60km roundtrip) and you will arrive in the agriculturally rich Pemberton Valley. Go on a horseback riding adventure, get your bounty at the farmer’s market, or relax over a pint at the  The Beer Farmers brewery.

Where to stay: The  Pemberton Valley Lodge  suites hotel offers upscale amenities, an outdoor heated pool, and a hot tub with views of Mt. Currie.

Learn more at: Tourism Pemberton

For the Drive Back

To return from your Vancouver to Whistler road trip, you can backtrack along the same Sea-to-Sky Highway route. (The coastal views are actually better on the way back.) Alternatively, you can make a loop of it, carrying on from Pemberton to Lillooet, and then returning via the Fraser Canyon (which used to be the main highway into the BC interior before the Coquihalla Highway was built).

Also known as the Coast Mountain Circle Route , you can learn more about it here .

2. The Kootenays

7 Nights (~1700 to 1800km Loop)

See also this post on: A Kootenays Road Trip .

From backcountry adventures to luxury mountain lodges, The Kootenays deliver for people who love the outdoors. Located in the province’s southeast corner, this region includes 4 mountain ranges (the Rockies, Purcells, Selkirks and Monasheees), 4 National parks and 75 provincial parks.

Imagine hikes to aqua-hued lakes and majestic waterfalls, river rafting adventures, wildlife excursions and relaxing in natural hot springs at the day’s end. Here are some stops you should consider.

Note: This itinerary is great if you are looking for a 7 day road trip from Vancouver as there is a lot to see and do!

Within easy reach of Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Park, Revelstoke is the perfect place for mountain biking, dirt biking, and hiking, as well as white water rafting and stand up paddle boarding. This charming town, steeped in Canadian railway history, also has some excellent coffee houses, restaurants, brew pubs and distilleries.

Where to stay:

Basecamp Revelstoke is a boutique hotel situated just a short walk from Downtown Revelstoke, overlooking the Colombia River and only a 15 minute shuttle ride to the world-famous Revelstoke Mountain Resort. If Basecamp is fully booked (it usually is), The Coast Hillcrest  on the outskirts of town is a nice (and well-priced) option.

Learn more at: See Revelstoke

This little mountain town is a wonderful base from which to explore both Yoho National Park and Glacier National Park. Both have incredible hikes for all levels, ranging from less than an hour to several days for the more advanced.

Just a 15 minute drive outside of town is Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, where you will find some fantastic adrenaline-inducing activities such as mountain biking and a very exciting Via Ferrata . Italian for “iron road”, a Via Ferrata is a protected climbing route with a steel cable running along the route that is fixed to the rock.

No visit to Kicking Horse is complete without stopping in to catch a peek of Boo the orphaned grizzly in his 20 acre habitat (daily tours available). Animal lovers might also enjoy visiting the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre  and Rocky Mountain Buffalo Ranch just outside of town (they are located very close to each other).

Recently, a brand new adventure park opened up in Golden. The Golden Skybridge offers two of Canada’s highest suspension bridges, an exhilarating zip line over a canyon, a Mountain Coaster, a treetop obstacle course, axe-throwing and much more. When my husband and I visited, we spent twice as long as we expected to because we were having so much fun!

Where to stay: Tucked into 12 acres of woodlands, the Moberly Lodge has cozy rooms and 2 self catering log cabins. If you would prefer to be in town, Golden has a really nice little hotel (new) called Rooms at Riveredge . For a real splurge, check out the Cathedral Mountain Lodge in nearby Field, BC.

Learn more at: Tourism Golden

See also: Our guide to the Best Things to do in Golden, B.C.

Hot Springs

Within the Kootenay region there are numerous places to enjoy naturally spring-fed hot pools. Several of the most popular are Radium and Fairmont near Kootenay National Park, and Ainsworth, just outside of Nelson. All of them offer towel rentals, and in a pinch, some of them even rent swimsuits.

See the full list of Kootenay hot springs.

Nelson 

The youthful, laid-back lifestyle of Nelson has long attracted artists, musicians and craftspeople looking to escape bigger cities. It’s also a very picturesque town, with over 350 beautifully preserved Victorian era buildings.

Nelson is equally attractive outside of town, with easy access to several provincial and national parks, as well as the water sports of Kootenay Lake.

Where to stay: The centrally-located Hume Hotel has beautiful modern-heritage rooms, a full service spa, a restaurant and a live music venue.

Learn more:  Kootenay Rockies Tourism

3. The Okanagan

3-7 Nights (~900 to 1000 km)

One of the most popular BC road trips from Vancouver is to explore the Okanagan Valley. This region gets exceptional summer weather and is famous for its fruit orchards, lake life and abundance of wineries.

The Okanagan corridor runs along Highway 97 from the ranch country of Vernon in the north, through Lake Country and the lively city of Kelowna, on to the fruit-filled orchards of Peachland and Penticton, and ends up in the wine country of Oliver and Osoyoos.

As you meander along the route, you are never far from the water with Kalamalka, Okanagan, Skaha, and Osoyoos lakes all along the way (plus a bunch of smaller ones). Whether you want to go boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, or just want to kick back on a sandy beach, there is always a lake nearby.

Cyclists will enjoy riding along the Kettle Valley Trail,  which offer 650 km of pathways along a decommissioned rail line. The trail can be enjoyed as a day trip, or as a multi-day adventure, depending on rider ability.

For a different kind of ride, kids and rail buffs alike will love hopping on the 100 year old Kettle Valley Steam Train. The Spirit of Summerland takes guests on a scenic 90 minute ride through the Okanagan Valley.

Okanagan Wine Country

From Kelowna, down through the Naramata Bench, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos, you are in BC’s best wine country with hundreds of wineries to choose from. Whether you are looking to pop by a small family run operation or a swanky world-class winery and tasting room, you will find something to entice your palate.

If you are interested in finding out about special events hosted by the wineries (including long table dinners), see  thewinefestivals.com .

See also: 12 New(ish) Wineries to Visit in the Okanagan (The Vancouver Sun) as well as these family friendly Okanagan wineries .

And of course, one can’t mention Osoyoos without bringing up the mysterious Spotted Lake. Kliluk, as it is known to the First Nations People of Osoyoos, is a mineral rich lake, full of calcium, sodium sulphates and magnesium sulphate. In the summer months, much of the water evaporates, leaving the unusual colours and rings of minerals.

Where to stay: Throughout the Okanagan Valley, there are some lovely places to stay. Some top picks include Sparkling Hill Wellness Spa in Vernon (adults only), and in Osoyoos, The Watermark Beachfront Resort and Spirit Ridge (nice for both couples and families).

Learn more:  Okanagan Valley from Hello BC .

Want to see a bit more? Check out this video of the Okanagan Corridor . It makes me want to hit the road right now!

4. Vancouver Island

4-7 Nights (~400 to 700km)

Note: For ferry options to get to Vancouver Island, please see the BC Ferries website. It is possible to take two different ferry routes (ex. arrive via Swartz Bay and return via Nanaimo) so that you do not need to retrace your whole drive on the return trip.

Begin your Vancouver Island adventure in the harbourfront city of Victoria. While many people visit for its quaint British charm (think classic pubs, afternoon tea service and carriage rides), the city has much more to offer than that.

Victoria is a great city for a stroll with Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown (Canada’s oldest!), Fisherman’s Wharf and the parliament buildings all close to the city center. The Royal B.C. Museum is a must-visit attraction with its exceptional west coast galleries. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful city views by taking a ride on the Victoria Harbour Ferry water taxi service.

Where to stay: For couples, the award-winning Magnolia Hotel and Spa is boutique hotel gem. For families looking for a special stay (and a pool), you can’t beat the Fairmont Empress Hotel .

Learn more at: Tourism Victoria

Cowichan Valley and Parksville Qualicum Beach

From Victoria, head north into the Cowichan Valley, a region well known for its agritourism. Think artisanal cheese, organic coffee roasters, award-winning cideries and distilleries.

When you have had your fill of food and drink, continue north to the seaside villages of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. With water warmed from low summer tides, this is the perfect spot for an evening stroll, beach combing and paddle boarding.

Where to stay: The  Bellstar Beach Club Resort   in Parksville offers spacious suites with beautiful ocean views.

Learn more at: Tourism Cowichan and Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism

Ucluelet and Tofino

Experience the best of the wild west coast by visiting the neighbouring communities of Ucluelet and Tofino. Hike through ancient forests, enjoy miles of sandy beaches, embark on a wildlife excursion (whales and bears!), take a surf lesson or two, and do some stellar stargazing.

Where to stay: Tofino has a great selection hotels. Two beachfront standouts are The Pacific Sands Resort and The Ocean Village Resort .

For longer stays, a vacation rental , preferably near one of the west coast beaches (Chesterman, Mackenzie, Cox Bay) may make for a more economical choice.

Learn more at: Discover Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino

See also: The 12 Best Things to do in Ucluelet

5. The Sunshine Coast

2-5 Nights (~200 to 360km)

Enjoy some of BC’s most beautiful scenery and marine life along this 180km stretch of coastline. This lovely region can be reached by a short ferry ride out of West Vancouver.

Tip: During busy summer months, book reservations ahead of time with BC Ferries .

Once you reach the Sunshine Coast, take your time working your way north while enjoying the gorgeous coastal views. Leave plenty of time to stroll around villages and marinas along the route. Even better? Time your visit to coincide with one of the many farmer’s markets .

From hiking the  Sunshine Coast Trail , to watching the tidal rapids of the  Skookumchuck Narrows  (“The Skook”) – there is plenty to see and do. Hone your mountain bike skills at  Sprockids Mountain Bike Park , or enjoy kayaking, biking, boating, diving, marine tours and more.

If you have the time, take a day trip via water taxi to Savary Island. This special spot is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia (and the warmest ocean water).

The Return Trip

Although most people head back the way they came, if you have more time, you may choose to do the full coastal route which takes your across the Straight of Georgia and back down Vancouver Island.

For inspiration, check out this little video of the Coast Circle Route .

Where to stay: The Painted Rock Resort & Spa – Madeira Park is a beautiful property located on the shores of Pender Harbour. It offers a seasonal outdoor pool, a spa, an on-site restaurant and guest accommodation with fully equipped kitchens.

Learn more:   Tourism Sunshine Coast

See also: Tripadvisor’s Top Things to do on the Sunshine Coast

More Travel Guides

• BC Kootenays Road Trip Guide
• Top Things to do in Golden, B.C.
• Bear Watching in Bella Coola, BC
• Assiniboine Lodge, BC – Hike In/Fly Out
• Purcell Mountain Lodge, BC – Alpine Hiking
• Vancouver to Banff Road Trip (Winter)
• Whistler with Kids Guide 
• Victoria with Kids Guide
• Tofino with Kids Guide

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6 Responses

Na7 whatsapp.

Love this list of road trips from Vancouver! Can’t wait to try out the Sunshine Coast route this summer. The scenery looks absolutely stunning. Thanks for sharing!

College Brawl

Love this post! I’ve been wanting to take a road trip from Vancouver for a while now, and the itinerary you provided looks like it would be an amazing adventure. Definitely saving this for my next summer trip planning 🚐🏞️

Love this list! Can’t wait to hit the road this summer and explore some of these beautiful destinations. Vancouver is such a lovely city, but it’s great to see some of the hidden gems nearby that are worth visiting. Thanks for sharing!

Road Tripper

Going from Vancouver to Halifax is my favorite road trip, do it every three years or so. If you follow the Trans Canada Highway you get to stop along every major Canadian city.

I love road trips! I’m so excited to try out some of these great Vancouver BC road trips this summer.

If they are contacted at the right time for the right purpose, then it can reap a lot of benefits. Honestly, there are so many of them. Again and again, I will be reading this blog to get the tips in a good way. They seem to be pretty valuable.

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse here's what to know.

Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred.

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

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Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

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If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

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