Discovering Hidden Gems: Unforgettable Road Trips through British Columbia’s Scenic Routes
British Columbia (BC) is a massive province known for its breathtaking scenery, bustling cities, and outdoor adventures. With its vast rugged landscape, it is hard to know where to start when it comes to planning a road trip through BC. There are so many hidden gems to discover, from the snow-capped Rocky Mountains to the lush rainforests of Vancouver Island, not forgetting the winding roads along the southern coast of BC. The province is a treasure trove of natural beauty, scenic routes, and off-the-beaten-track destinations that are waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most unforgettable road trips through British Columbia’s scenic routes.
Sea-to-Sky Highway – Vancouver to Whistler
Starting from Vancouver, the Sea-to-Sky Highway has everything a road tripper could want – from breathtaking coastal vistas to towering mountains and ancient forests. The journey starts with stunning views of the Georgia Strait from Horseshoe Bay. The highway climbs steeply towards Squamish, offering spectacular views of Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief, a massive rock towering over the town. The drive continues through the lush greenery of Brackendale and the Daisy Lake Recreation Area before reaching Whistler, a resort town with something to offer every season. Take the gondola ride up Blackcomb Mountain for a bird’s-eye view of the area’s natural beauty.
Okanagan Valley – Kelowna to Osoyoos
The Okanagan Valley is a true hidden gem of British Columbia’s scenic routes, with its picturesque vineyards, orchards, and lakes. The journey starts in Kelowna, known as the fruit basket of Canada. From there, it winds through the valley, alongside the Okanagan Lake, providing seeing stunning views of farmers’ fields and vineyards. The highlight of the trip is the Naramata Bench, which is home to some of the most famous wineries of the region. The journey culminates in the small town of Osoyoos, which is known as Canada’s only desert.
Island Highway – Victoria to Campbell River
The road trip through Vancouver Island is one of the most rewarding in the province. The Island Highway runs parallel to the eastern coast of the island, offer views of the ocean. The journey starts at Victoria, the capital city of the province. From there, it heads north, with stops at the Sooke Potholes, Goldstream Provincial Park, and the world-famous Butchart Gardens. The road trip culminates in Campbell River, where you can witness the salmon run, enjoy the numerous art galleries, and take a trip to the Discovery Marine Park.
Yellowhead Highway – Jasper to Prince Rupert
The Yellowhead Highway offers one of the most scenic drives through the Rockies. The journey starts at Jasper National Park, offering stunning views of the Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield. From there, the road trip passes through the Mount Robson Provincial Park, offering views of the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. The road trip ends in the small port town of Prince Rupert. Here you can take a ferry to Haida Gwaii or Alaska or enjoy a fresh seafood dinner.
Conclusion
British Columbia is one of the few places in the world that is blessed with such diverse natural beauty. With such an abundance of scenic routes, it is impossible to see everything in one trip. This article showcases just a few of the hidden gems that British Columbia has to offer. Whether you are seeking mountains, ocean views, or a combination of both, British Columbia has it all. Venture out on a road trip and discover some of the unforgettable and picturesque places that BC has to offer.
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