Want to take the road trip of a lifetime in British Columbia with the best?
While we don’t think we’ve driven all the highways in BC, we certainly have taken our fair share of scenic drives in our lovely province.
British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province. The province borders Alberta and is known as a vast area with natural beauty. Between the Pacific Ocean, the Rocky Mountains and the rocky beach, BC has a wide range of mountain ranges.
British Columbia has a number of scenic highways that are spectacular no matter what the season. There are thousands of lakes and valleys, as well as mountains and an undiscovered north.
What are the best road trips in BC Canada?
British Columbia has some of the best scenic spots in Canada and the world. Visit the Okanagan Valley to see the world’s best vineyards, or travel along the West Coast and enjoy beautiful beaches.
You can go skiing or downhill bicycling in Whistler during the winter or head up north to Vancouver.
Mount Fitzwilliam, Canadian Rockies in Jasper Canada
Mount Fitzwilliam Jasper Canada
You can see the Rocky Mountains at their most raw form or watch salmons spawn. British Columbia offers both.
Do you dream of hiking in the mountains, hot springs all year long and warm lakes during summer? BC offers all of that and more.
Holding hands on the road during a British Columbia road trip near Nakusp
There’s something for everyone in BC, whether you want to go on a family road trip or just explore beautiful sites with friends.
Here are our favorite drives that take you into the heart of nature, whether you want to explore new places, go on vacation with your family, friends or to just get away.
The Best Road Trips in British Columbia, Canada
These are the top road trips to enjoy the beauty of British Columbia, whether you own a car or rent one.
You can choose from a variety of guided tours in BC, or you can travel the entire province on a motorcycle. This post will help you find the Best Motorcycle Insurance and the Top Things to Do from Vancouver to Banff.
THE SUNSHINE COST – SUNSHINE CENTRAL HIGHWAY
Vancouver - Powell River (105mi), 170km (4h20mi), 2 ferry crossings
Sunshine Coast Trail, located just north of Vancouver on the coast, is one popular hiking trail in BC. The trail is located on the west coast of Vancouver, just north. It offers many different hiking options. There is a stretch that runs along the ocean with breathtaking views of both mountains and the ocean.Aquabus at Granville Island Vancouver
How does it relate to road trips? You can hike along this trail and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The drive there will also be spectacular with its coastal backdrops and mountains.Photo credit: Vancouver Aquarium
The 2 ferry crossings along the route (the first in Horseshoe Bay, and the second in Earl’s Cove), offer the chance to view everything from dolphins to killer whales from the comfort of your car. Keep your eyes peeled for large animals such as mooses, deer and bears. Mountain goats and cougars can also be seen.
You can continue driving after you arrive at Powell Bay by taking a ferry to Vancouver Island, where your adventure will begin near Comox.
The Okanagan Valley – Highway 97
Vernon - Osoyoos 173km (107mi), 2h25
Okanagan Valley has some of the oldest wineries in Canada and orchards dating back to before BC became a province.Overlooking Liquidity Wines near Okanagan Falls BC
From Vernon, south to Osoyoos, you will see the prettiest BC lakes, starting with Kalamalka Lake, which, depending on season, ranges from indigo to cyan.Paddle boarding on Kalamalka Lake
There are a lot of family-friendly activities to enjoy as you travel south on Highway 97 from Vernon through Lake Country to Kelowna in BC’s interior. You can hang out at the boardwalk along 135 km long Okanagan Lake, one of Canada’s few lakes that never freezes in winter, and then grab some ice cream and head to the beach.SS Sicamous in Penticton BC
You’ll be driving along the West Kelowna highway (home of great vineyards such as Mission Hill, Quails gate and Summerland) and soon you will find yourself in towns called Peachland or Summerland. Before arriving at Penticton. Take a stroll along the town’s boardwalk before driving south to Osoyoos – the warmest Canadian city!Mission Hill Winery in West Kelowna
There are hundreds of vineyards in the Okanagan Valley, many located just off highways. Pick up a guide to wineries before starting your Okanagan BC Roadtrip.
THE COQUIHALLA HIGHWAY HIGHWAY 5N
From Hope to Kamloops (203km / 126mi), 2h15m
There are two things abundant on the stretch of road from Hope to Kamloops, spectacular scenery and notoriety. It’s a beautiful stretch of highway with stunning mountain vistas and rivers. However, it is also featured in a TV show called Highway Thru Hell which depicts the hazardous winter conditions. The legends are based on the fact that it’s a mountain road through unforgiving terrain. If you have any doubts, visit the Drive BC Website or pay attention to weather.
The Coq was built originally as a connector in order to accelerate the Trans Canada Highway’s original route as it traveled west. The Coquihalla is faster, but the scenery is unmistakable.
Harrison Hot Springs is a great place to soak in hot water if you are feeling like it.
You’ll leave Hope on Highway 3 East and quickly hop onto Highway 5 to Merritt or Kamloops. The Othello Tunnels, just beyond Hope, are a great place to stretch your legs.
You can choose between heading southeast on Highway 97C towards Kelowna or northeast along Highway 5 toward Kamloops.
You can drive through both cities if you plan to continue on east. The drive to Kelowna, however, will take you an extra 30 minutes. It is by far a more scenic drive and passes through many small cities and towns.
The Island Drive – HIGHWAYS 1 AND 19
Victoria - Qualicum Beach, Vancouver Island - 158km 98mi - 2h25
Although not called The Island Drive officially, this part of Vancouver Island is a great place to explore. You’ll see quaint towns, beautiful murals, and sweeping ocean views as you head north along Highway 1 from Victoria, British Columbia’s capital with Victorian-style architecture.
You can stop at hundreds of locations along the route to get a snack, go hiking or shopping. However there are some wineries and cideries in Cobble Hill worth visiting. You can also take a short hike at the Kinsol Trestle, which is just before Cobble Hill. This is one of the largest freestanding rail trestle constructions in the entire world. It’s a sight to behold. The Cowichan valley trail is popular for hiking.
Nanaimo, the next big city north of Vancouver Island is a good place to stop and stock up on supplies for your Qualicum Beach stay. If you are planning to stay at Qualicum Beach for a few days, this is a good place to get supplies. It also has the second major ferry terminal.
You’ll reach Parksville and Nanoose Bay as you head north. Qualicum Beach is usually the most popular destination, but the sandy beaches are what draw the most people.
Visit the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre and the Goats on the Roof at the Old Country Market while you are in the area. These are both great spots to hang out with the kids for a couple of hours.
The Sea-to-Sky Highway – Highway 99
Vancouver to Whistler - 121km (75mi) - 1h 25mins
Whistler is BC’s premier ski resort. Vancouverians are not the only ones who make the trip up there. Highway 99 north for an hour and half is a scenic drive with stunning ocean and mountain scenery. It also passes through Squamish – a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.Squamish Sea To Sky Gondola
Squamish offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from rock-climbing to Bald Eagle tours during the winter. It was the site with the highest Bald Eagle sighting count (3769) and the most BaldAves spotted in any given year. Squamish also has the Sea to Sky Gondola. This engineering marvel zips passengers to the top with comfort and plenty of trails at either landing.Sunwolf.net Photo credit
Whistler is a destination for outdoor adventurers. It’s easy to see why as you enter the city. There are many activities available. The Village, the centre of the village, is a great place to visit after hitting the slopes. There are many restaurants, pubs and shops open all year. Whistler is not just a ski destination. There are many activities that take place all year long.
Are you visiting in the summer months? It’s summertime! You don’t know what diving is? You can take a diving course, explore the beaches or go swimming to enjoy a break during your trip.
The GLACIER DRIVE – HIGHWAYS 5 AND 16
Kamloops -> Jasper: 441km (274.4mi) in 4h45
Although Jasper technically isn’t in BC, the majority of the drive takes place in British Columbia. It’s an amazing road trip that passes through mountains and valleys.
You’ll soon pass through wide valleys before you reach the winding mountain passes. This Kamloops-Jasper trip has a lot of beautiful scenery, as the road follows the North Thompson River.Meadowview dormitory at Kamloops, BC
You can also go rafting or whitewater rafting in the area of Clearwater. You can also stretch your legs at the Blue River Provincial Park or North Thompson River Provincial Park, which are both located just before Clearwater. They are both right off the highway, and easy to stop at.
You’ll find a few more places to stop as you continue north on Highway 16 (also known as Yellowhead Highway). Rearguard Falls Provincial Park is just ahead and the Mount Robson Visitor Centre with Mt. The backdrop of Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Rockies is a beautiful one. Berg Lake Trail is a 23km hike that offers beautiful scenery, wildlife and lots of hiking.
It’s obvious when you arrive in Jasper why this is one of Canada’s top destinations. The Athabasca river and its surrounding lakes are awash in vibrant colors. Glaciers and icefields can be found nearby, as well as the Sky Tram. Marmot Basin Ski Resort and Canada’s best Dark Sky Festival.
Clearwater is only an hour away from some of Canada’s most stunning waterfalls. Helmcken Falls is the fourth largest waterfall in Canada and it’s located in Wells Gray Park. On the way, you can stop at Spahats Falls or Dawson Falls. Helmcken Falls takes about 45 minutes to reach (44km).
HIGHWAY 4 – THE CATHEDRAL DIVE
Parksville to Port Alberni (Vancouver Island) – 50km (31mi) – 44mins
This route was only found a few short years ago, when we visited Port Alberni. It’s an easy drive that takes you through some of the oldest forests on Vancouver Island.
Cathedral Grove is located in MacMillan Provincial Park, just after you have passed Cameron Lake. The trail takes you to one of the largest Douglas Fir stands in Vancouver Island. The trails are a short walk that takes you under giant Douglas-firs, some of which are over 800 years old.Visiting family on Vancouver Island
Several ancient trees fell over time due to severe winds. The park and its trails are constantly being repaired and monitored. Check to see if it is open before you make a trip.
The ROCKY MOUTH PASS is located on Highway 1.
Revelstoke - Lake Louise, 227 km (141mi), 3 hours
Although the Rocky Mountains have some of the highest mountains in the world, driving through them can be a pleasant experience. Lake Louise, like Jasper is located only 10km away from the BC/Alberta Border. This means that the bulk of the road trip will take place in British Columbia.
You’ll see the highest mountain pass in Canada as you drive, and also the most beautiful scenery in Canada.An elevated view of Lake Revelstoke from Mount Revelstoke British Columbia Canada on a stormy day
As you drive east along Highway 1 in Revelstoke (a former railway hub that is now home to the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Pipe Mountain coaster, an all-downhill rollercoaster 1.4km long) you will soon come across a number of trails and boardwalks. Giant Cedars Boardwalk is a 20-minute walk that takes you through some very large cedars.
After that, you’ll find Canyon Hot Springs Resort with its nice hot pool and shortly after you’ll climb through Roger’s Pass. This is the highest point on Canada’s TransCanada Highway of 8000+ km.
Golden is Canada’s capital of whitewater-rafting. There are many adventures to be had, including whitewater rafting and the Golden SkyBridge – Canada’s tallest suspension bridge with zipline. Field is a small mountain village with easy access to Takakkaw Falls. This waterfall, Canada’s second highest, can be found just 10 minutes from the highway.Walking across the bridge at Takakkaw Falls
When you reach Lake Louise you will want to see the stunning Chateau Lake Louise and the turquoise-colored lake for which the town is known. You can enjoy some wonderful hikes and, if it’s wintertime, Lake Louise Resort in Alberta is one of the top ski resorts.
For more information about the TransCanada Highway in British Columbia, please visit our Ultimate Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Guide.
HIGHWAY 4 – THE PACIFIC RIM
Port Alberni to Tofino (Vancouver Island) - 126km (78mi) - 1h 50mins
Highway 4 West from Port Alberni, to the coast side of Vancouver Island offers a relaxing journey with beautiful coastal roads and old-growth forests. There are also many sights on the way.
Sproat Lake is a popular 4 season camping and cabin area for boaters and fishermen. Wally Creek is next. This spot is right beside the highway and has parking spots. It’s a great place to cool down in the crystal clear water.
Continue on and you will reach the coast. You can now get a Pacific Rim National Park pass to enjoy the beauty and natural wonders of this park. You can take a detour to Ucluelet by taking a walk on the Ancient Cedars Loop Trail.
Tofino is our destination to the north. The Rainforest Trail is another wonderful walk. It is a boardwalk and gravel path through cedars & hemlocks covered with moss.
The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve has a small tourist town, Long Beach (on the coast), that is a haven for nature-lovers. Surfers flock to the beach year round, but most people come just to walk and watch the waves.
You’ll soon be driving to Tofino. Surfers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts love this cozy, small town at the end of the earth. The population increases in the summer, but the area is popular all year long.
Chesterman Beach, on the southern edge of Tofino is another popular surf and beach location in the region. If you are planning to stay in the area for several days, there are many inns or hotels.
The Kootenays – Highway 6, 31A and 3A
Nakusp via Balfour to Creston - 218km (136mi) in 3h15m (1 ferry crossing)
This road trip in British Columbia’s Kootenays is best described as a journey through unfettered nature. This drive is filled with beautiful lakes, hot springs and forests.
First, we head to Nakusp. This is a lovely beach town on the shores of Upper Arrow Lake. In summer, the Nakusp area is usually crowded and boasts a beautiful beach with crystal clear water. You’ll be paralleling picturesque Slocan lake as you drive out of town along Highway 6 in the southeast. You’ll be driving eastbound on Highway 31A as you reach New Denver. This quaint lakeside village is located along Highway 6.Holding hands on the road during a British Columbia road trip near Nakusp
You’ll reach Kaslo in West Kootenay after driving over the Kokanee Glacier Ranges. A quick stroll along the Kaslo River Trail is an excellent diversion if you’re looking to get some exercise. There are also a number of good restaurants in this town. Fletcher Falls, located south of Kaslo and just off Highway 97, is a nice short stop.
Ainsworth Hot Springs is a place we love with really nice springs, and even a cave heated by hot springs. The hotel has a great restaurant and the hot springs is included if you choose to stay there. Visitors can also purchase day passes.
We continue Highway 3A after a beautiful drive along Kootenay Lake. In Belfour, we take a ferry to Kootenay bay. Don’t be concerned about getting lost as the highway follows Kootenay Lake to Creston. Creston is a small valley town that offers a wide range of services, including hotels, restaurants and wineries. The Columbia Brewery also gives tours of its brewery (which produces Kokanee Beer). In the summer months, you should visit the Kootenay Columbia Discovery Centre to see the wetland.
You can get to Nakusp by either driving east on Highway 6 from Vernon or heading south on Highway 23 from Revelstoke. Both roads are excellent, but the cable ferry from Needle, British Columbia to Fauquier, is an added bonus if driving from Vernon. There are also some beautiful lakes and views, such as Mable Lake Sugar Lake and Echo Lake that you should check out if time permits.
BONUS ROAD TRIP: THE ISLAND HIGHWAY HIGHWAY 19N
Comox to Port Hardy (Vancouver Island) - 290km (180mi) - 3 hours (1 Ferry crossing)
We decided that since no list can ever be complete, this final BC road trip would make a great bonus. The journey begins in the picturesque town of Comox.
You can visit the fishing wharf in Comox or any of the many beaches, such as Goose Spit Park. As well, kite-surfing is popular here. You’ll see kites flying by while you stroll the beaches.Fishing boats at anchor off the BC coast
You’ll arrive in Campbell River if you head north on Highway 19. Campbell River is known for its whale-watching tours and grizzly tour. Many companies offer these tours and guarantee sightings or your next trip. A popular excursion is to visit the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge, with its large suspension bridge. It also has a waterfall. You can also check out Quinsam Salmon hatchery which is one of Canada’s largest salmon breeding facilities.
Continue past Campbell River and you will have to travel a long distance, including a couple of rivers as well as a large lake. You’ll then reach the coast. You’ll soon be in Port Hardy, where you can explore the beaches and marinas as well as take day trips like God’s Pocket Marine Preserve for sea lions. If the weather is good, a guided tour by kayak is an absolute must.
If you have already done the Powell River road trip, then the BC ferry is the natural next step. A ferry can be taken from Port Hardy up to Prince Rupert. Renting a room is an excellent way to see and relax on this 16-hour ferry.
Final Notes on the Best Road Trips in BC
We’ve lived in BC over 10 years and have seen a lot of its beauty. The friendly people, the scenery and the natural landscape are all things we can’t get enough of. This list may not be exhaustive but we hope that it will give you some ideas about the most beautiful road trips you can take in British Columbia.
Do you think we’ve missed something? Please share your story below. Enjoy your journey.