Planning a trip to Canada’s westernmost province? We’re sharing over 30 of the absolute best places to visit in British Columbia!
We have spent a ton of time exploring British Columbia over the years, including driving up the entire length of the province in our Sprinter van on our way to and from Alaska. And now that we’re living back in Washington State and very close to the Canada border, taking quick weekend road trips or catching a BC Ferry has become one of our favorite regular routines!
British Columbia is a massive outdoor paradise with unbelievable diversity. Where else can you explore ancient coastal temperate rainforests, surf on rugged island beaches, visit orchards in a desert valley, hike past turquoise alpine lakes, and marvel at massive snow-capped peaks all in one province?
In this guide, we’re sharing over 30 of our favorite places to visit across Canada’s Pacific province, including national and provincial parks, scenic drives, coastal spots, and local eats!
Disclaimer: Because BC is HUGE, there are still plenty of spots on our bucket list that we’re dying to explore (like the Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast, and more of the Fraser Valley and Kootenays!). As we keep crossing the border to check more off our list, we’ll be sure to keep updating this guide.
Southwestern British Columbia
Located in the southwestern corner of the province, this region encompasses the bustling city of Vancouver, the iconic Sea to Sky Highway up to Squamish and Whistler, and the agricultural heartland of the Fraser Valley. Here, the ocean meets the mountains, making it one of the most diverse regions to explore in all of Canada!
1. Vancouver
Vancouver is easily one of our absolute favorite places to visit in British Columbia! Throughout our years of living in Washington, we have done many day trips (plus longer!) to the city. And even after dozens of visits, we never get tired of coming back!
Downtown Vancouver
One of our absolute favorite ways to kick off a trip to Vancouver is renting bikes from Spokes to cruise the 9.5 km (6 mile) Seawall loop around Stanley Park. You’ll get sweeping views of the harbor and city skyline, and you can ride up to Prospect Point for views of North Vancouver. Make sure to take the short trail behind the cafe to walk along the Lions Gate Bridge itself!
Afterward, hop on the cute little Aquabus across False Creek to Granville Island Public Market. There are so many delicious vendors inside, but some of our top picks to grab food from are A Bread Affair, El Cafecito, Hobbs Pickles, Lee’s Donuts (get the honey dip!), The Lemon Square, and Sen Pad Thai. (A+K tip: bring a few Canadian dollars, as some market vendors don’t take US dollars!).
While you are out sightseeing downtown, stroll through historic Gastown to check out the famous Gastown Steam Clock, pop over to Jack Poole Plaza to see the 2010 Olympic Cauldron, and watch seaplanes land in the harbor.
Vancouver also has an unbelievable coffee, food, and dessert scene. For the best coffee in downtown, grab a pour-over at Revolver or hit 49th Parallel for coffee and donuts. For food, we love Jam Cafe, The Federal Store Luncheonette & Grocer, COMEDOR By La Taqueria Pinche Taco Shop, Cockney Kings Fish & Chips, and Fritz European Fry House. On a warm afternoon, grab an ice cream from Rain or Shine or Earnest Ice Cream. And then head over to Kitsilano Beach to catch the sunset over English Bay!
North Vancouver
Just across the Lions Gate Bridge sits North Vancouver. One of the best spots to visit here is Lynn Canyon Park, a fantastic (and free!) alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. It features a 50-meter-high suspension bridge over a roaring canyon, forest trails, and swimming holes.
If you’re looking for a challenge, hike up Grouse Mountain, a steep 2.9 km (1.8 mile) trail known as the Grouse Grind (or you can just ride the Skyride cable car to the top!). You can also stop by Cleveland Dam to take in the views of Capilano Lake and the twin mountain peaks known as “The Lions.”
For more of a coastal village feel, head over to Deep Cove to wander the water’s edge. Or hike the Quarry Rock trail for a gorgeous view over the fjord. When you need a bite to eat, stop by Cafe Orso in Deep Cove for delicious waffles, charcuterie boards, and great coffee!
West Vancouver
West Vancouver boasts rugged coastline and epic alpine viewpoints. One of our favorite stops here is Lighthouse Park, where you can walk through a lush coastal rainforest filled with giant Douglas firs out to granite bluffs overlooking a historic lighthouse and the Salish Sea.
For a hike with a view, head up to Cypress Mountain. You can take the short 4.8 km (3 mile) round-trip walk to Bowen Lookout, or continue on the 10.3 km (6.4 mile) trek to Saint Mark’s Summit for cliffside views over Howe Sound. Afterward, drive down to the charming ferry port of Horseshoe Bay. Or head to Whytecliff Park to walk along the beach, where you can often spot harbor seals sunbathing on the offshore rocks!
2. Pitt Meadows
This is a smaller stop, but we really loved our time here and wanted to make sure it made the list! Located just east of Vancouver in the Fraser Valley, Pitt Meadows is super easy to add on if you’re heading out toward Golden Ears Provincial Park or exploring other spots in the valley.
Our absolute favorite thing to do here is grab our bikes and ride along the Pitt River Regional Greenway. It’s a scenic, flat trail that runs right along the dike, giving you sweeping mountain views the entire way! We parked near the river to start our ride, which is also a fantastic launch spot if you want to get out on the water with a kayak or paddleboard.
After cruising along the water, make sure to stop by Stomping Grounds Cafe & Bistro! It’s such a cute spot to refuel with a great cup of coffee and a delicious bite to eat.
3. Golden Ears Provincial Park
Located just outside Maple Ridge and next to Pitt Meadows, Golden Ears Provincial Park is full of massive mossy trees, beautiful mountain peaks, and the stunning blue waters of Alouette Lake. It’s one of the largest (and most popular!) parks in the province. And one of our absolute favorite places to visit in British Columbia!
One of our favorite hikes in the park is the Lower Gold Creek Falls Trail. It’s a relatively easy walk through the rainforest that follows along Gold Creek, which has some of the clearest, most gorgeous bright blue water we’ve ever seen! The trail leads you to a roaring waterfall with gorgeous mountain views. Afterwards, we loved hanging out on the beaches at Alouette Lake, which is also a fantastic spot to kayak or paddleboard.
We visited in mid-May, right before Victoria Day weekend, and had an amazing experience! The park wasn’t too crowded yet, and the campgrounds were mostly empty mid-week. Just keep in mind that because it’s so close to Vancouver, Golden Ears gets crazy busy during the summer.
Important to know: To manage summer crowds, BC Parks requires free Day-Use Passes for specific trails and parking areas during peak season. Be sure to check the BC Parks website and reserve yours online ahead of time!
4. Sea to Sky Highway
Driving the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) from Vancouver up toward Whistler is easily one of the most scenic drives we have ever been on! The road hugs the coastline of Howe Sound before winding up into the massive peaks of the Coast Mountains, and the views are just unbelievable the entire time.
While you could technically drive it in about two hours and just see major destinations like Squamish, Garibaldi, and Whistler, there are so many incredible smaller stops worth pulling over for along the drive, you will definitely want to make a whole day out of it!
If you’re looking for a great hike near the start of the drive, Tunnel Bluffs is one of our favorite trail stops. It has stunning views of Howe Sound! Further up the road, Porteau Cove Provincial Park offers amazing waterfront camping right on the shore. Just a heads up though, getting a campsite here is VERY hard. So if you want to stay here, you’ll need to try reserving a site the exact second your date opens up on the BC Parks site.
For a super unique detour just up the highway, stop by the Britannia Mine Museum to tour an underground train and learn about the area’s history! After that, head to Murrin Provincial Park to hike the Quercus Lookout Trail. It’s short, steep, and rugged, but it rewarded us with one of the absolute best views of the whole trip! Lastly, once you pass through Squamish, make sure to pull over at the Tantalus Lookout for a quick peek at the snow-capped Tantalus Range across the valley.
Want to drive this incredible coastal route? Check out our complete Vancouver to Whistler Sea to Sky Highway guide for our favorite scenic viewpoints, waterfall hikes, and quick roadside stops! You can also watch our Sea to Sky Highway video to follow along as we hike to the Whistler Train Wreck, eat real fruit ice cream in Squamish, and camp at Porteau Cove!
5. Squamish
Known as the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” Squamish is located at the tip of Howe Sound and is surrounded by massive granite peaks, waterfalls, and ocean views. We have spent a lot of time in Squamish during our road trips up the Sea to Sky Highway. It is a spot we always look forward to visiting!
One of the first stops you’ll come across just south of town is Shannon Falls, which is the third highest waterfall in British Columbia! It’s a very quick and easy walk from the parking lot to view the falls cascading down the cliffside.
Right next to Shannon Falls is the Sea to Sky Gondola. You can ride the gondola up to the top, where you’ll find a suspension bridge, walking trails, and sweeping views over Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. You can technically hike to the top (the Sea to Summit trail), but just a warning, it is extremely STEEP! Unless you are really looking for an intense leg burner, we’d suggest just taking the gondola.
Down by the water in town, we LOVED checking out Sp’akw’us Feather Park! It’s a brand new park on the ocean with a beach area, picnic tables, cool sculptures, and amazing views of the Stawamus Chief.
For a quick waterfall hike, head over to Mamquam Falls. There is both a paid route and a free trail option here, and we chose to do the free hike! It’s a short walk to see the bright blue water rushing through a narrow canyon. Just make sure to be bear aware. We actually saw a bear in the parking lot when we visited!
Before hitting the trails, grab a coffee at Smoke Bluff Coffee House. And after a day of adventuring, stop by Alice & Brohm for some delicious New Zealand style real-fruit ice cream!
6. Garibaldi Provincial Park
If you are looking for views of gorgeous alpine lakes, massive glaciers, and rugged mountain peaks, Garibaldi Provincial Park is an absolute dream! Located between Squamish and Whistler, this huge wilderness park is home to some of the most iconic (and beautiful!) hiking trails in all of the province. We were totally blown away by the scenery here. It is easily one of the best places to visit in British Columbia!
While there are several different trailheads in the park, we backpacked to Garibaldi Lake and then day hiked up to Panorama Ridge. The views from the top are truly mind-blowing! When you reach the ridgeline, you are greeted by the most vivid, electric-blue glacial water backed by Mount Garibaldi and the Sphinx Glacier.
Important to know: Because Garibaldi is so insanely popular, BC Parks requires free Day-Use Passes for the most popular trailheads (including Garibaldi Lake and Cheakamus Lake) during peak summer months. If you plan to camp overnight at any of the backcountry sites, you MUST reserve a backcountry camping permit well in advance on the BC Parks website. Also, keep in mind that dogs are not allowed anywhere in Garibaldi Provincial Park.
Read all about our experience backpacking in Garibaldi Provincial Park for permit tips, trail breakdowns, and what to expect on the route!
7. Whistler
Tucked into the Coast Mountains at the end of the Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler is a world-famous resort town that is fun to visit year-round! While it’s best known for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking in the summer, it also has a charming, walkable village, endless outdoor places to explore and is easily one of the most iconic places to visit in British Columbia!
We love strolling through the pedestrian-only Whistler Village, popping into shops, and snapping a photo by the 2010 Olympic rings. While you’re in the village, riding the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is an absolute must! The views of the glaciers up there are insane, and you can even walk across the Cloudraker Skybridge, which takes you from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge. You can also hike the High Note Trail from the gondola!
There are also tons of great quick walks, lakes, and waterfalls down in the valley. On your way into town, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is a super easy stop to see a massive 230-foot waterfall! Another fun walk is the Whistler Trainwreck Trail, which takes you over a suspension bridge to train cars covered in colorful graffiti hidden in the woods. We also really enjoyed Nairn Falls, an easy walk following a rushing river out to a tumbling waterfall. If you’re visiting on a warm afternoon, head over to Alta Lake to relax by the water! Also, if you’re looking for a cool night activity, Vallea Lumina looks amazing! It’s an illuminated night walk through the forest that is high on our bucket list for next time.
When it comes to food and coffee, there are two spots in the village we absolutely love! First is Purebread Bakery. Their pastry case is stacked with endless delicious treats and great coffee. Good luck deciding what to get! The second is Peaked Pies, where you can get authentic Australian meat pies. Be sure to get it “peaked” with mashed potatoes, peas, and gravy on top!
8. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
If you’ve ever seen photos of bright Gatorade-blue alpine lakes in British Columbia, there’s a very high chance it was Joffre Lakes! Located just past Pemberton, this is easily one of the most iconic and beautiful hikes in the entire province.
The Joffre Lakes Trail takes you past three gorgeous glacial lakes (Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre Lakes). Each one seems to get progressively more vibrant as you hike! The trail is 7.2 km (4.5 miles) round trip with epic views of the towering Matier Glacier over Upper Joffre Lake.
Important to know: Because this park has become so incredibly popular, BC Parks manages visitor numbers to help protect the area. If you are planning a visit during the peak season (typically May through October), free Day-Use Passes are required for everyone in your group. Also, keep in mind that dogs are no longer allowed anywhere in the park.
Vancouver Island
Located just west of mainland British Columbia, Vancouver Island is one of our absolute favorite places in all of Canada! It is a massive island where rugged coastlines and lush temperate rainforests meet the mountains. Beyond all the incredible scenery, the island is packed with charming small towns, incredible food, and is home to BC’s capital city!
You can reach the island by taking a quick flight, but taking the BC Ferry over from the mainland with your vehicle is our personal favorite way to go! We suggest making a reservation in advance, especially during the peak summer season.
Planning a bigger trip around the island? Check out our 10 Day Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary to see our exact route, where to stay, and how to plan your time!
9. Victoria
Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia. First founded as a British trading post in the 1840s, it has so much historic charm, gorgeous coastal scenery, tons of incredible food spots and coffee shops, and beautiful parks to explore. It’s one of the absolute best places to visit in British Columbia!
One of our favorite ways to start the day here is just walking around the Inner Harbour. The architecture along the waterfront is stunning, especially the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and the Empress Hotel. Victoria is also famous for its high tea, and while the Empress is the most popular place to go, we opt for a much more affordable (and super tasty!) option at Murchie’s Tea & Coffee. We got a pot of black tea and a fresh blackcurrant scone for under $12!
After tea, wander into Canada’s oldest Chinatown to squeeze through Fan Tan Alley. Lined with neat little local shops, it is officially the narrowest street in Canada!
When hunger strikes, get lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish. It’s a super popular spot on the wooden pier operating out of an old shipping container. We love their famous tacones (seafood wrapped up taco-style) and a hot bowl of chowder. Afterward, treat yourself to a scoop at Parachute Ice Cream. Their lemon cream and pistachio flavors are insanely creamy!
If you want to explore a bit further around the Victoria area, two stops are worth adding to your list. First, head to Beacon Hill Park, a huge, beautiful park near downtown filled with manicured gardens, walking paths, lakes, and even peacocks freely roaming around! If you have extra time, you can also visit the world-famous 122 year old Butchart Gardens.
And just a short drive outside the city, head over to Goldstream Provincial Park to see BC’s very own Niagara Falls! It’s a 150-foot waterfall that flows over a steep cliff.
Be sure to watch our Victoria video to tag along as we explore Fan Tan Alley, eat at Red Fish Blue Fish, and hunt for waterfalls!
10. East Sooke
If you want to experience the rugged coastal side of Vancouver Island without driving super far, East Sooke is an awesome area! Located about an hour west of Victoria, it’s packed with rocky ocean bluffs, beautiful forest trails, and sheltered coves.
Our favorite thing to do here is hike at East Sooke Regional Park. If you’re looking for a great day hike, we highly recommend the Beechey Head Loop or the full East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop. The coastal sections take you along cliffs over the ocean, where you can watch for whales out in the strait and scramble over rocky bluffs!
After exploring the coast, make sure to head slightly inland to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park. This park is known for its deep pools and potholes carved directly into the river bedrock over thousands of years by rushing water. On a warm summer day, it is such a cool spot to hang out by the river, go for a dip, or just marvel at the rock formations!
11. Jordan River
Located on the rugged southwest coast of Vancouver Island, Jordan River is a tiny, remote surf community that is packed with charm. It’s full of lush rainforests, amazing food spots, and one of our favorite beaches on the island!
Before heading out on the trails, stop for breakfast at Shirley Delicious. It’s a super cute A-frame cafe tucked in the woods, and everything we had was amazing! We loved their corn fritters, the breakfast sandwich, and caramel latte.
For an awesome outdoor adventure, hike out to Mystic Beach! The trail takes you through a mossy coastal forest before opening up to a gorgeous beach on the ocean. There is a fun wooden swing hanging from a tree over the shore, a waterfall crashing right onto the sand, and a neat sea cave to check out. Just make sure you ONLY explore the cave during low or falling tide so you don’t get trapped!
After a fun day of hiking and exploring the coast, grab some incredible pizza at Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market. And if you need another quick coffee fix, we also loved the coffee at Cold Shoulder Cafe!
12. Port Renfrew
Located at the end of Highway 14 on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island, Port Renfrew is a tiny town known for massive ancient trees and incredible coastal views!
There are two stops we loved in this area. First is Sombrio Beach, which not only has a beautiful beach, but a hidden waterfall! Another highlight here is Botanical Beach. It’s famous for its unbelievable tidepools carved into the sandstone, which are overflowing with colorful sea anemones, sea urchins, starfish, and tiny crabs. Getting down to the beach does require a short hike through the coastal forest. Just keep in mind that you have to visit at low tide to actually see the tidepools. So make sure to check the tide charts online before you head out!
13. Pacific Rim Highway
If you’re traveling across Vancouver Island from east to west, you’ll be driving the Pacific Rim Highway! This road connects Nanaimo on the east coast over to Tofino on the west side, and there are so many cool stops along the way.
First up, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is a great stop with short walking trails through the forest to see two waterfalls cascading down a deep rock canyon. As you keep driving through Coombs, pull over at the Old Country Market, also known as Goats on the Roof! It’s a huge, fun market packed with local foods, baked goods, and gifts. But the best part is the actual herd of real goats living and grazing on the sod roof!
Just a bit further down the road is Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, another fantastic waterfall spot right off the highway with an easy loop trail that gives you awesome views of upper and lower falls crashing over the rocks. Finally, make sure to pull off at MacMillan Provincial Park, famous for Cathedral Grove. This park protects a rare stand of ancient Douglas fir trees, including some that are over 800 years old and absolutely massive!
14. Ucluelet
Located just south of Tofino, Ucluelet (or “Ukee” as locals call it!) is a charming coastal town that has a much quieter feel than its super popular neighbor, Tofino. It’s surrounded by gorgeous ocean views, rocky coastlines, and mossy rainforest, making it a great spot to spend a day or two.
While we were here, we hiked the Wild Pacific Trail: Lighthouse Loop, and it was easily one of our favorite short walks in the area! It’s an easy, well-maintained trail that winds along the rugged coastline. You’ll have constant views of the crashing ocean waves and the historic Amphitrite Point Lighthouse that keeps watch over Barkley Sound, plus the archipelago of the Broken Group Islands.
15. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Stretching along the rugged west coast between Ucluelet and Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is an absolute must-visit on Vancouver Island! We personally spent our time exploring the park’s Long Beach Unit, which is full of massive sandy beaches, lush coastal rainforests, and Indigenous history.
One trail we really loved was the Nuu-chah-nulth and South Beach Trail. It takes you through the forest and connects three beaches. Another unique spot to check out is the Canso Bomber Plane Crash trail. It leads you out to the site of a 1945 RCAF plane crash hidden in the trees. Amazingly, everyone on board survived!
If you like exploring on two wheels, there’s also a paved bike path that runs right alongside the highway all the way through the park! You can actually cycle 43 km (27 miles) all the way from the town of Tofino straight down into Ucluelet.
16. Tofino
As one of the most famous destinations on Vancouver Island, Tofino is an absolute must on any list of places to visit in British Columbia! Nicknamed Canada’s surf capital, this coastal town has such a fun, laid-back vibe surrounded by pristine beaches, mossy rainforests, and dramatic mountain views.
If you’re looking for great coffee and food, we loved Rhino Coffee House. And you absolutely cannot miss getting food from the original Tacofino truck! It’s insanely popular, so arrive early and be prepared for a long line. But their Crispy Chicken Burrito and cheesy, griddled Gringas are so worth the wait.
For the ultimate view of the area, hike up to the Cox Bay Lookout. Just keep in mind that this trail must be done at low or falling tide to access safely. It is also a super rugged, steep, and muddy climb. But the views looking back over the entire bay from the top are unreal!
Of course, you can’t visit Tofino without spending time on the sand. We loved checking out all the different beaches around town. Some of our favorites include Long Beach, Wickaninnish Beach, Chesterman Beach, and Cox Bay Beach, which is widely considered the best surf beach in Canada! They’re all so beautiful for going on beach walks or watching people surf. And if you want a really unique excursion, you can take a boat or seaplane ride out to Hot Springs Cove. Here you’ll hike down a boardwalk to soak in natural hot springs on the edge of the ocean!
Read our guide on the 12+ best things to do in Tofino, complete with a 3-day itinerary. Be sure to also watch our Tofino video to come along with us as we explore Pacific Rim National Park and hike to an old plane crash!
17. Campbell River
Located on the eastern side of Vancouver Island, Campbell River is the third largest city on the island and a fantastic place to visit in British Columbia! It’s surrounded by five provincial parks and marine parks, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and even snow sports. It’s also known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” because its local waters are home to all five species of Pacific salmon.
While you’re exploring the area, we highly suggest the hike out to Elk Falls Provincial Park to cross the wobbly 60-meter-high suspension bridge right over the canyon for an amazing view of Elk Falls!
Afterwards, head over to FoggDukkers Coffee, which is located inside a rustic old bait shop on the water. It has some of the best coffee shop views we have ever seen. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for seals or whales as you enjoy your drink! For food, More on the Shore on the dock is perfect for fresh fried salmon or red snapper with garlic parmesan fries. Fun fact: their logo features a one-eyed seal named Richard who hangs around the dock! If you are craving pizza, Session Taproom + Kitchen serves incredible wood-fired pizzas with some fun toppings.
Then, take a stroll along the Discovery Fishing Pier, Canada’s first saltwater fishing pier. As you wander around town, keep your eyes peeled for the Driftwood Creations. These are incredible driftwood animal sculptures crafted by local artist Alex Witcombe. You can use this map to hunt them all down!
Finally, take a trip out to Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park in British Columbia! When we visited, it was still a bit too early in the season for the higher altitude hikes. But we absolutely loved hiking to Lower Myra Falls, seeing Lupin Falls and Lady Falls, and kayaking on Buttle Lake.
Check out our guide on 13+ fun things to do in Campbell River for our favorite trails, wildlife spots, and a free 2-day plan! You can also watch our Campbell River video to see the amazing waterfalls in Strathcona Provincial Park!
Kootenay
The Kootenay region is one of the most underrated places to visit in all of British Columbia! Tucked away between the stunning Selkirk, Purcell, and Monashee Mountain ranges, this whole region is packed with incredible mountain views and pristine lakes, including the massive Kootenay Lake. We spent time exploring here while driving the International Selkirk Loop, and fell completely in love with it!
18. Nelson
Nestled on the shore of Kootenay Lake and surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains, Nelson is one of the most vibrant and charming mountain towns in British Columbia.
One of the best things to do here is simply wander around downtown Nelson. There are so many historic buildings, cool murals, and gorgeous waterfront views, especially down at City Dock! If you happen to visit on a Wednesday or Saturday, definitely make sure to check out the Nelson Farmers Market.
For coffee, we loved both Oso Negro Cafe and No6 Coffee Co.! And when it comes to food, a few spots we really enjoyed are Big Dee’s Fancy Wieners & Quality Ice Cream (for the name alone!), Marzano, and Red Light Ramen.
If you’re up for a hike while you’re in the area, climb up to Pulpit Rock! It’s a fairly short trail, but it is super steep. Once you reach the top, you get the most amazing views looking out over Nelson and the surrounding mountains and lake.
19. Kokanee Creek Provincial Park
Located on the shores of Kootenay Lake and along Kokanee Creek, Kokanee Creek Provincial Park is a beautiful spot to explore near Nelson. It’s famous for its sandy beaches (there’s over a kilometer of shoreline!), old-growth cedar forests, and especially its red kokanee salmon spawning. In late summer, thousands of salmon return to swim upstream, and the park even has a spawning channel with viewing platforms where you can watch the run happen, which is so cool to see in person!
There is a great network of hiking trails throughout the park, but our personal favorite was definitely Kokanee Canyon. The park also offers incredible water access for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, plus a fun nature center to check out. And when you get hungry for lunch, grab a bite from Unkel’s Street Eats!
20. Ainsworth Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a unique place to soak in British Columbia, head to Ainsworth Hot Springs. Located along Kootenay Lake, these natural geothermal waters have been used for centuries by the Ktunaxa First Nations. The hot springs feature a big outdoor pool with beautiful views of the lake and mountains, but the highlight is definitely the horseshoe cave. You can actually walk through this warm, steamy cave filled with mineral water, which was our favorite part!
The hot springs are only open to the public on Monday, plus Wednesday through Sunday, so make sure to check their hours before you go! It costs $18 CAD for adults, with cheaper rates for kids and seniors, plus family options. That price includes the locker rooms and showers, which you’ll need to use before jumping into the pool.
21. Fletcher Creek Falls
If you’re looking for a quick and easy waterfall stop, Fletcher Creek Falls is absolutely worth pulling off Highway 31 for! The trail is super short, taking you down through a lush, green forest to where Fletcher Creek tumbles 50 feet over a rock face into a hidden grotto.
The path leads to a wooden bridge and boardwalk tucked inside the canyon, where you can stand close to the base of the falls and get blasted by mist! After checking out the waterfall, you can keep following the trail down to where the creek empties into Kootenay Lake. There’s a beautiful pebble beach with picnic tables, making it a great spot to hang out by the water before hiking back up to the trail.
22. Kaslo
Kaslo is a charming small town situated on the shore of Kootenay Lake. It was originally a gold and silver mining town, and today there are around 60 restored heritage sites scattered throughout town. Including Canada’s oldest wooden municipal hall still in use! One of the best places to visit is the SS Moyie National Historic Site, which is the world’s oldest intact passenger sternwheeler. We loved touring the inside of this historic vessel!
If you’re looking for an easy walk nearby, the Kaslo River Trail is awesome to check out. It loops along the river, taking you across two bright red covered bridges and past whimsical little stone sculptures hidden in the moss and rocks along the path.
When you get hungry or need a coffee break, Bluebelle Bistro is good for both coffee and food, while Sunflower Sisters Cafe looks great for a treat. And Old Growth Smokehouse looks to have some solid brisket!
23. Crawford Bay
Located on the east side of Kootenay Lake, Crawford Bay is a teeny tiny town famous for its thriving artisan community. To get here from the western side of the lake, you will take the ferry from Balfour to the Kootenay Bay Terminal. This 35-minute crossing is the longest free scenic ferry ride in the world! The ferry runs on a set schedule, so you will definitely want to check the departure times beforehand so you aren’t stuck waiting at the terminal.
The town itself is packed with open studios where you can watch blacksmiths, potters, and weavers work. North Woven Broom is one of the most magical shops we have ever been to! They hand-make broomcorn brooms using antique machinery. And their brooms have even been used for set props in movie franchises like Harry Potter! After browsing the shops, make sure to stop by Red’s Bakery for a sweet treat or fresh baked goods before hitting the road.
24. Creston
Located in southeast BC, Creston sits in a sunny valley between the Purcell and Selkirk Mountains. Thanks to its unique microclimate, it’s known as the agricultural heart of the Kootenays, packed with orchards, farm stands, and wineries.
If you are visiting in the summer or fall, picking your own fresh fruit at Flamenco Farms or Blue Canoe Orchards is such a fun experience. For grabbing fresh fruit on the go, Wloka Farms Fruit Stand and Margo’s Farm are awesome local stops right along the road.
You can also spend an afternoon wine tasting at Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery and Red Bird Estate Winery. And if you need a coffee break, Good Company Coffee is a must! Their drinks and treats were fantastic, but we absolutely loved sitting out on their back deck, which looks out over neighboring orchards with mountains towering in the background.
Thompson Okanagan
Located in southern interior British Columbia, the Thompson Okanagan region is one of the most amazingly diverse regions in all of Canada! It is famous for its warm, sunny weather, rolling vineyard-covered hills, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes that are known for skiing in the winter. The region is home to bigger cities like Kelowna and Kamloops, as well as several smaller towns. This is an area we are just beginning to explore and we can’t wait to see more of it!
25. Wells Gray Provincial Park
Known as Canada’s waterfall park, Wells Gray Provincial Park is home to an incredible 42 named waterfalls! If you love chasing waterfalls and exploring stunning landscapes, this park needs to be high on your list of places to visit in British Columbia.
In the main section of the park, there are so many amazing waterfalls to see! Some of our favorites are Helmcken Falls (which plunges 463 feet over a volcanic cliff!), Moul Falls (where you can actually hike behind the cascading water!), Spahats Creek Falls, Silvertip Falls, and Triple Decker Falls. Beyond the waterfalls, hiking up to Trophy Meadows offers incredible views, especially in the summer when the subalpine meadows are bursting with wild flowers!
And after a full day of exploring on your feet, we highly recommend swinging by The Osprey Cafe along Clearwater Lake, to treat yourself to a slice of cake! For more substantial meals, the nearby town of Clearwater has quite a few great food options. We recommend checking out Hop “N” Hog Tap & Smokehouse for their massive meat platter for two, Clearwater Stop, Wild Flour, and Backcountry Bowls.
If you have a little extra time, Mahood Lake is another area of the park that is worth checking out! It does require a bit of a drive to get to since it’s a bit more remote, but we ended up camping here for a night and loved paddling and fishing on the lake. Plus, staying the night in this area makes it super easy to visit even more incredible waterfalls nearby, like Canim Falls and Mahood Falls, plus Deception Falls.
Cariboo
Sitting in the central interior of BC, this region became famous during the 1860s Cariboo Gold Rush, and it’s packed with history, rolling ranchlands, and tons of lakes. We drove through here on our way to the Alaska Highway and found it to be full of underrated gems!
26. Chasm Canyon
Located just a quick turn off Highway 97 near Clinton, Chasm Canyon (also known as the Chasm Ecological Reserve Viewpoint) is an awesome, fast roadside stop!
It’s known as BC’s mini Grand Canyon, and the geology here is super cool. Millions of years ago, successive lava flows covered the area to form the Fraser Plateau. Then, about 10,000 years ago, massive floods of melting glacial water carved out a massive gorge, revealing all the exposed layers of hardened lava. When you walk up to the fenced viewpoint, you can look down into the 1,000-foot-deep canyon and see distinct layers of red, brown, yellow, and purple rock bandings!
27. 108 Mile Ranch
Just off Highway 97 in the South Cariboo, 108 Mile Ranch is a super small area, but it makes for such a neat stop while driving the old Gold Rush Trail.
The highlight here is the 108 Mile Heritage Site, a collection of restored pioneer log buildings right on the edge of 108 Lake. You can walk around the property for free to check out old log barns, a roadhouse, and vintage machinery that served travelers during the 1800s gold rush.
Right next door to the historical site, grab a drink at Rusty Iron Coffee. They serve up delicious coffee and treats, with a view!
28. Barkerville Historic Town & Park
For history lovers, Barkerville is easily one of the best places to visit in British Columbia!
Located about an hour east of Quesnel, this is a massive, preserved gold rush town with over 100 historic buildings. Back in the 1860s, it was the main center of the Cariboo Gold Rush. Today, it’s a huge living history site where costumed interpreters bring the town to life. You can pan for gold, watch stagecoaches roll down the street, and visit authentic 19th-century shops.
While we didn’t have time to stop here on our road trip up to the Alaska Highway, it looks like such a fun, immersive place to explore, so we had to mention it anyway!
Northern British Columbia
Taking up over half of the entire province, Northern British Columbia is a massive, incredibly rugged wilderness filled with jagged mountain ranges, ancient temperate rainforests, and incredible wildlife, including the Spirit Bear (a rare white Kermode bear only found in BC’s coastal rainforests!).
For the sake of this guide, we’re considering anything north of Prince George as Northern BC. This is where you’ll find the iconic Alaska Highway and Stewart-Cassiar Highway, both of which lead up into the Yukon Territory and Alaska!
29. Prince George
Known as the “Northern Capital” of British Columbia, Prince George is situated where the Fraser and Nechako rivers meet, famous for its rich logging history and beautiful wilderness surroundings. Because so many major highways converge in Prince George, it’s a super common stopping point if you’re road tripping between the Canadian Rockies, Southern BC, or on your way up to Alaska like we were!
While we were passing through, we stopped by the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum, and it was so much fun! They have tons of cool old trains and forestry equipment that you can actually walk through and explore, plus a mini train you can ride around the grounds. Before hitting the road again, make sure to grab a bite at Nancy O’s. We got their poutine and loved it!
30. Alaska Highway
The Alaska Highway is the ultimate drive if you’re traveling up to Alaska from the lower 48! Running all the way from Dawson Creek up to Watson Lake in the Yukon, it passes through some of the most remote and gorgeous places to visit in British Columbia. Along the way you’ll experience epic mountain views, tons of wildlife, and so many fun places to pull over.
In Dawson Creek, make sure to snap a photo with the iconic “World Famous Alaska Highway” sign marking Mile 0. Then grab a great coffee and breakfast at beans&barley before hitting the road. As you head further north, you’ll definitely want to stop at Tetsa River Lodge. Their giant cinnamon buns are famous for a reason and make the best road trip snack!
If you want to stretch your legs, Stone Mountain Provincial Park was a huge favorite of ours. We loved hiking the Flower Springs Lake Trail and stopping by Summit Lake, which actually sits at the highest elevation on the entire highway. Further up the road is Muncho Lake, which has the most unreal turquoise water! We camped along the shore at MacDonald Campground, but you could also launch a kayak or just pull over at the viewpoint to take in the views.
Finally, no drive up the Alaska Highway is complete without soaking at Liard River Hot Springs! There’s a $5 fee per adult during peak season, but walking down the boardwalk to soak in these huge natural hot pools surrounded by trees is the best way to end a long day of driving. If you can, try to arrive early in the morning so you can have a bit more solitude!
Read our ultimate guide to driving the Alaska Highway where we share our full route, stops, campsites, and survival tips! Plus, you can watch our Alaska Highway video as we drive from Dawson Creek all the way up into the Yukon!
31. Stewart-Cassiar Highway
The Stewart-Cassiar Highway is another awesome, but more remote route to take if you’re driving up toward Alaska. It runs from the Yellowhead Highway in Kitwanga all the way up to the Yukon border just west of Watson Lake.
Along the main stretch, Tā Ch’il ā Provincial Park (formerly Boya Lake) has gorgeous Caribbean blue water and is easily one of the best places to camp on the whole route. Further south, Kinaskan Lake Provincial Park is another great camping option right on the lake, with 50 first-come, first-served sites ($20 CAD/night, cash only!). And if you’re a fan of reality TV, you can pull off at Jade City to check out the jade shop from Discovery Channel’s Jade Fever.
If you have time, you absolutely have to take the detour down Highway 37A to Stewart, BC and Hyder, Alaska! Together they are some of the best places to visit in British Columbia for easily accessible wildlife and glaciers.
On the drive in, you’ll pass by Bear Glacier as it spills into Strohn Lake, where you can actually see giant icebergs floating in the water from the roadside pull-off!
Once you get into Stewart, you can walk the Estuary Boardwalk out over the tidal flats and grab a bite at El Tostador. From there, cross the border into Hyder, Alaska to grab some fudge at Caroline’s Boundary Gallery & Gifts. Then, head over to the Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site to look for brown bears fishing for salmon. Just keep in mind that day passes are $10 per person and you need to buy them online ahead of time.
To finish off the detour, drive up to Salmon Glacier, which is the 5th largest glacier in Canada. The road to get up there is pretty rough, but the views are so worth it. Plus, you can even boondock out there with a view of the glacier!
Check out our guide on how to drive the Stewart-Cassiar Highway for our favorite wild camping spots, glacier views, and driving tips! You can also watch our Stewart-Cassiar Highway video to see the stunning drive up to Hyder, Alaska!
32. Smithers
If you’re traveling along the Yellowhead Highway, Smithers is a great town to stop at for a couple of days. It sits right at the base of Hudson Bay Mountain and has a super charming, small-town feel with mountain views everywhere you look!
One of the best things to do here is just walk around town. The main street has a cool Alpine theme with Bavarian-style storefronts. As you’re walking around, make sure to look for Alpine Al! He’s a wooden statue playing a Swiss alphorn and is the town’s mascot. While you’re exploring, grab a drink at Bugwood Coffee, a cute little stand right on Main Street with outdoor seating.
There are tons of hikes in the surrounding area, but we picked the Crater Lake Trail because it was relatively short and easy to fit into our schedule. We loved it!
Planning Your Trip to British Columbia
Airport to fly into
If you’re flying into BC, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) will likely be your best bet, especially if you’re starting in Vancouver or driving the Sea to Sky Highway.
If you want to head straight to Vancouver Island, you can fly directly into Victoria (YYJ). Abbotsford (YXX) is another great option in the Lower Mainland, and many of the smaller regions throughout the province have regional airports as well.
Getting around British Columbia
British Columbia is HUGE! To put it in perspective, BC is bigger than California, Oregon, and Washington state combined. You will definitely need a rental car (or RV) for almost all of the destinations on this list.
If you’re only staying within major city centers like Vancouver or Victoria, you can easily get around using public transit, but a car is a must once you hit the road.
If your trip includes Vancouver Island or the coastal islands, you will be traveling with BC Ferries. Make sure to book your reservations well in advance, especially during the summer.
Best time to visit British Columbia
Between world-class skiing, mountain hikes, and coastal scenery, BC is truly a year-round destination. That said, the climate varies wildly by region, so when you visit completely depends on what you want to do!
Spring (March to May): Coastal cities like Vancouver and Victoria are gorgeous this time of year with everything blooming! Melting mountain snow also makes spring the absolute best time for waterfalls. Just keep in mind that higher-elevation hiking trails will still have tons of lingering snow.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the best time for road trips, camping, and catching waves in Tofino! High-alpine trails have finally melted, making it the prime season for mountain hikes. The only real bummer is that late summer is wildfire season, which can bring smoky skies and unexpected trail closures.
Fall (September to November): Early fall is one of our personal favorite times to visit! The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is comfortable, and you get insane golden larches in the mountains. By late fall, though, heavy coastal rain sets in and snow starts creeping back into the high country.
Winter (December to February): If you love winter sports, BC is pure magic! Whistler is in full swing for world-class skiing, and out on the coast, storm watching in Tofino is unreal. Coastal areas stay pretty mild temperature-wise, but they can get a bit gloomy and rainy. Inland and northern BC gets significantly colder and sees a ton of snow.
Cell service & driving conditions
Cell service drops completely on long stretches of highway in northern and interior BC. Download offline maps (like Google Maps or AllTrails) before you head out, and keep an eye on your gas tank since gas stations can be spaced far apart.
Be bear aware
All of British Columbia is bear country. Black bears live throughout the entire province, while grizzly bears are common in interior and northern regions. Always carry bear spray on the trails, know how to access it quickly, and practice proper food storage if you’re camping.
Important to know: You cannot bring bear spray on planes, so if you’re flying to BC, you will want to pick this up when you arrive. If visiting British Columbia by land from the US, you can bring bear spray over the border. However, traditional pepper spray is not allowed.
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About the author
This blog post was written by our writer Nicoll. Learn a bit about her below!
After six years of full-time travel, Nicoll is now a mountain-loving mama living in Colorado with her husband Jake, their sweet baby girl Teagan, and their pup Gunner. She loves hiking, riding her dirt bike, and finding joy in the little things.