One week is just enough time to explore the Canadian Rockies without feeling too rushed. Designed for those looking to get up into the mountains, this route starts and ends in Calgary and focuses on providing the best access to amazing trails as well as lesser-known regions that evade the crowds. The ideal season for this route is May through September.
With just three full days, this is the minimum amount of time you'll want to get a great feel for the Canadian Rockies. Besides two longer days of driving, you'll be able to focus your time exploring the countless trails and viewpoints along the scenic Icefields Parkway. After returning to Canmore on your last night, it's a short drive to Calgary for your onward journey.
Designed for outdoor adventure lovers, this route gets you away from the crowds into the best alpine scenery of the Canadian Rockies. You'll start and end in Calgary and drive the iconic Icefields Parkway in both directions, taking in Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper, with minimal driving time and more time in nature.
A week-long road trip featuring British Columbia's Coast Mountains and the wine region of the Okanagan. Starting and ending in Vancouver, you'll drive through Whistler, Sun Peaks, and then south through the Okanagan Valley to Kelowna and back to Vancouver. This route is relatively fast-paced and best suited for those who are short on time but want to cover the main highlights of the Coast Mountains and Okanagan.
Located in the remote wilderness of northwestern British Columbia, this is one of the most beautiful and rewarding treks in Canada. A sacred landscape for the Tahltan First Nation, visiting this plateau was both a rite of passage and a journey of purification. Accessible only by floatplane, hike for five days across the alpine tundra against the backdrop of cinder cones, glaciers, and the mighty Coastal Range.
With 10 days, you'll have enough time to explore all the highlights of the Canadian Rockies between Banff and Jasper. You'll also have time to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds, either on a multi-day hiking adventure, to a wilderness lodge, or into the lesser-known (but just a stunning) region of Kananaskis.
Starting and ending in Vancouver, this road trip takes you to the rugged coastline of Pacific Rim National Park. Base yourself in a wilderness lodge or cozy B&B along the coast and spend three days exploring the beaches and rainforest around Tofino and Ucluelet, as well as the remote islands of Clayoquot Sound. This trip is ideal for those looking to combine beautiful coastline with outdoor adventure.
This 6-day itinerary through the Okanagan Valley is perfect for wine and outdoor enthusiasts. It begins in Vancouver, where you can walk or bike Stanley Park's Seawall before driving the winding Crowsnest Highway through forested parkland to reach Kelowna. Tour a wide variety of vineyards and sample local wines after a morning spent biking, hiking, and swimming around the Okanagan.
With 10 days, experience the best of British Columbia's wine country and the Canadian Rockies. You'll start in Vancouver and spend the first half of the trip wine tasting and getting out on the great biking and hiking trails of Okanagan Valley. From there, head north into the mountains to some of Canada's most dramatic national parks—ending your trip in the spectacular (and underrated) hiking region of Kananaskis Country.
With just 6 days, base yourself out of Banff and Jasper for convenient access to some of the best hiking trails and viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies. Besides a couple of longer days of driving, this itinerary is designed to get you outside and into what these parks are all about—alpine trails, turquoise lakes, giant glaciers, and great opportunities to see wildlife.
In two weeks, explore the best of the Canadian Rockies from Banff to Jasper. This route is optimized for less time on the road and more time hiking in incredible alpine scenery away from the crowds, best done between May and September. You'll start and end in Calgary, and take in a couple of special, lesser-known regions such as Kananaskis Country.
With 8 days, explore the best of the Canadian Rockies stretching from Banff to Jasper. You'll drive one of the world's most iconic stretches of road in the Icefields Parkway and spend full days exploring the backcountry trails away from the crowds. This is the perfect amount of time to cover a lot of ground without feeling too rushed.
Follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the resort town of Whistler, your base for two days of outdoor adventure. Explore nearby alpine lakes and mountains by day and enjoy great local restaurants and spas by night. After you've had your taste of the mountains, sail to Vancouver Island for two more nights along the windswept coastline around Tofino, surrounded by coastal rainforest. Finally, head to Victoria for your last night in the city.
Undertake a quick five-day trip through the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia's premier wine region. A five-hour drive away from the dynamic west coast city of Vancouver, you'll weave your way alongside the Similkameen River and through the forested parklands of the Crowsnest Highway to reach the "Napa of the North." You'll have one night in Kelowna, the perfect jumping-off point for the surrounding vineyards, restaurants, and outdoor adventures.
This fast-paced road trip takes you across British Columbia on a popular route from Vancouver to Calgary. You'll have 2-3 hours of driving most days, with a couple of free days to immerse yourself in the Okanagan Valley's wine country and Kananaskis Country, the hidden gem of the Canadian Rockies. This itinerary is best suited for those who enjoy great food and wine and want to combine this with outdoor adventures.
Visit two of British Columbia's most popular destinations on this 4-day road trip. In Vancouver, stroll the cobbled streets of historic Gastown and enjoy some of Canada's best restaurants. Then take the stunning Sea-to-Sky Highway to the mountains of Whistler where you can access numerous hiking trails to alpine lakes. En route, take time to stop at ocean viewpoints or walk the short trails to local waterfalls.
With eight days, this is the minimum amount of time you'll want to explore two of British Columbia's most beautiful coastlines without feeling too rushed. First, you'll have three days to explore the hidden coves and seaside communities of the Sunshine Coast. From there, you'll catch a ferry to Vancouver Island for two days in the Pacific Rim, home to some of the province's best sea-kayaking and coastal trails. The best time to travel this route is from April through October.
From craggy snow-capped peaks to icy-blue glacial lakes and rushing streams, this epic road trip features a trio of Canada's famed national parks—Banff, Yoho, and Revelstoke—that highlight the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Starting in Calgary, you'll pass through Banff and Lake Louise before venturing into the dramatic landscapes of the less explored national parks of the Kootenays. Then you'll trace British Columbia's southern border and spend time in Canada's only desert, Osoyoos—the perfect locale to drink wine and discover Okanagan wine country—before ending your trip in Vancouver.
Immerse yourself in the wild and rugged beauty of British Columbia on this two-week road trip that covers the province's best natural highlights. Carving an "S" through the Canadian Rockies, Kootenays, and the fruit belt of the Okanagan, you'll begin in Calgary, drive through Banff, Yoho, and Mount Revelstoke national parks, and end your journey along the southern border sipping some of the best local wines.
Spend a week combining the urban highlights of Vancouver and Victoria with the rugged wilderness of the Pacific Rim National Park. This itinerary takes you by car and ferry to the west coast of Vancouver Island, famous for its coastal rainforest, whale watching, and access to some of the most rugged and magical coastline in Canada. Relax in a lodge by the beach and choose from a wide range of adventures each day.
This packed five-day itinerary is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure who are on a time crunch. Beginning and ending in dynamic Vancouver, discover British Columbia's rugged beauty beyond the city as you follow the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway to the year-round outdoor destination of Whistler. Explore the village, see the colorfully graffitied boxcars of historic Train Wreck, and hike the Garibaldi Lake Trail for some of the province's most rewarding views.
Spend nine days exploring the best of the Canadian Rockies. You'll base yourself in just a few locations to avoid moving around too much and instead spend your days on beautiful alpine trails. Besides having enough time to take in all the main highlights on the Icefields Parkway, you'll also explore some of the lesser-known regions that help you escape the crowds.
Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to drive across British Columbia without feeling too rushed. This itinerary is designed for those seeking to spend the majority of their days in the outdoors and covers the best mountain parks and trails that the province has to offer. The ideal time to travel this route is from mid-May to mid-October when the alpine trails are more likely to be clear.
On this self-drive tour, you'll explore southwestern and central British Columbia, discovering alpine mountains, surprising deserts, and the famed Okanagan wine country in 10 days. The tour will take you from dynamic Vancouver through the snow-covered Coast Mountains to Whistler. The circuit continues east to the wooded hills and farmlands of Salmon Arm before leading you through the orchards and wineries of the Okanagan Valley and to the southern desert town of Osoyoos.
Explore the diverse landscapes of Vancouver Island, where you can easily spend days hiking through the backcountry, paddling endless coastlines, or relaxing at cozy retreats next to the beach. You'll pass through prime wildlife viewing habitats and have plenty of hiking, biking, and sea kayaking opportunities. This is a great route for those looking to experience all that Vancouver Island has to offer without feeling rushed.
Follow one of Canada's most popular road trips from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies, passing through Whistler and Wells Gray Provincial Park as you make your way across the province. This trip is fast-paced at the start given limited time, but the driving reduces dramatically once you reach the Rockies where you'll spend the majority of your days exploring the trails and backcountry away from the crowds. Finally, you'll depart from Calgary after driving through the iconic Icefields Parkway.
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies by basing yourself in a few key locations where you can stay for a few nights and explore the backcountry trails and lakes. You'll take in the main highlights of the Icefields Parkway as well as the lesser-known regions, such as the beautiful Kananaskis Country and Yoho National Park. This route focuses on less time driving and more time out on the trails.
Follow this 12-day road trip through British Columbia's Coast Mountains and Vancouver Island. Starting with three days in Vancouver, you'll drive the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler before crossing the Strait of Georgia to Pacific Rim National Park. Look for whales off the coast of Tofino, surf at Chesterman Beach, and pick up a hiking trail through ancient rainforest to the wave-whipped Pacific Coast.
Starting and ending in Calgary, this route gets you outdoors on the best trails and routes through the Canadian Rockies. You'll have ample time to visit all the famous stops along the way as well as the lesser-known regions known just to locals. This route is optimized for those looking to get out into nature, beyond just the roadside stops and attractions.
On this seven-day road trip, explore the ice-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, the backcountry wilds and mountain towns of the Kootenays, and the fruit and wine belt of the Okanagan. The adventure begins in Calgary before leading you into Banff National Park and then south into Kootenay National Park before arriving in down-to-earth Nelson. After Nelson, drive through the arid desert of Osoyoos before ending your trip in Vancouver.
With 2 weeks, this itinerary covers the best of British Columbia's wine region and the Canadian Rockies. You'll have short driving days and will base yourself in a number of great locations for multiple nights, where you can immerse yourself in the surroundings. This route is a great option for those looking to combine great wine and food outdoor adventure and dramatic scenery.
With just 4 days, head straight to the Lower Sunshine Coast for some relaxation and outdoor adventure before returning to Vancouver for a day to explore the city. Waking up next to the Pacific Ocean, you'll have easy access to sheltered coves and inlets, driftwood-strewn beaches, and quaint seaside villages with surprisingly great restaurants and breweries.
Drive through three diverse landscapes—the Rockies, Kootenays, and Okanagan—on this 10-day road trip. After getting a taste of Calgary's cowboy heritage, you'll weave your way through British Columbia's most beautiful parks, down through the untamed wilderness of the Kootenays, to spend two nights in Canada's only desert, Osoyoos, in the southern Okanagan. You'll end the trip with two days in Vancouver, a sophisticated city with world-class restaurants, dominated by mountains and the sea.
With 10 days, split your time between the sun-warmed beaches of the Sunshine Coast and the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim. You'll get a great feel for Pacific Coast culture as well as the dramatic landscape that defines it. Finally, you'll have a day at the start and end of your trip to enjoy great restaurants in Vancouver as well as the small provincial capital of Victoria.
With seven days, you'll have plenty of time to explore Vancouver and the Coast Mountains around Whistler. This trip is best suited for those looking to spend most of their time outdoors—there are countless day hikes, alpine lakes, and scenic vantage points to check out. In between adventures, you'll also get a taste of some of the best restaurants in Canada and have time to explore the downtown and cultural highlights of the city.
This two-week road trip takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. You'll base yourself in four main locations: Desolation Sound, Strathcona Park, the Pacific Rim, and Salt Spring Island. Activities range from sea kayaking to waterfalls hikes to exploring the galleries and farmers' markets of Salt Spring Island.
This fast-paced road trip takes you from Calgary to Vancouver in 8 days. You'll pass through the dramatic landscape of the Canadian Rockies, the picturesque towns of the Kootenays, and the laid-back wine country of the Okanagan Valley. This itinerary is designed for people who don't mind driving long hours in order to cover a vast region with numerous highlights.
Discover the best of the Kootenays and the Canadian Rockies on this 10-day circuit. You'll have time to explore the mountains or paddle the lakes and rivers as you pass through some of British Columbia's most spectacular parks. In the evenings, head to the local hot springs and enjoy the peaceful vibe of the smaller lakeshore communities. This route is perfect for those looking to combine both adventure and relaxation.
In 12 days, combine the best of the Canadian Rockies with the hot springs and lakeshore communities of the Kootenays. This route is perfect for those looking for an active holiday with time to relax and sit back, as well, without too much driving. You'll pass by numerous hot springs, historic communities, and lake valleys surrounded by dramatic peaks. You can undertake this route year-round, given the numerous winter and summer mountain resorts en route.
This short road trip takes you off the beaten path to explore Vancouver Island's southern coastline, following former logging roads that have recently been paved. You'll have short drives each day so you can spend more time exploring nature—old-growth rainforests, remote beaches, hiking trails, as well as smaller historical communities.
If you love local markets, laid-back island charm, as well as outdoor adventure, this itinerary combines the best of both worlds. First, you'll head to Salt Spring Island (imagine Matha's Vineyard meets the Pacific Coast) where you'll stay in a beautiful B&B and check out the local art galleries, orchards, and wineries. After Salt Spring, head to the Pacific Rim, a wild stretch of coastline interspersed with beaches and backed by coastal rainforest along Vancouver Island's eastern shore. Here, spend your days sea kayaking, hiking, and exploring the coastline.
This short adventure takes you by floatplane to the wild west coast of Vancouver Island. You'll have close to three days to explore the rugged coastline, walk through ancient rainforest, and head off on a full-day sea kayaking or hiking adventure. At night, relax in a cozy lodge next to the beach and enjoy some of the province's best restaurants in the small villages of Ucluelet and Tofino.
Experience the best of the city and coast mountains on this short road trip between Vancouver and Whistler. You'll have a day to explore cosmopolitan Vancouver before driving north along the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the mountain resort town of Whistler. You'll then have two solid days devoted to exploring Whistler's bounty of alpine trails, glacial lakes, and great restaurants and breweries.
On this 11-day itinerary, you'll explore the alpine lakes and dramatic peaks of the Coastal Range, the old-growth rainforests of Vancouver Island, and the rough-and-tumble shoreline of the Pacific Rim. Start with two nights in Vancouver before dedicating a week to the outdoors on Vancouver Island where you can go whale watching, stroll driftwood-strewn beaches, and take in the Victorian-era architecture of the province's capital.
Escape the city and hit the countless trails of the Coastal Mountains near Vancouver. You can choose from short day hikes that take you to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints or opt for longer treks to the alpine lakes in and around Whistler and Garibaldi Provincial Park. In the evening, enjoy the great restaurants, breweries, and spas in Squamish and Whistler.
Spend 11 days in the outdoors of the Canadian Rockies. Starting and ending in Calgary, you'll base yourself in four locations that allow for nearby access to the best trails and lesser-known regions around Banff and Jasper national parks. This route is best done between May and September and was called the "drive of a lifetime" by National Geographic.
This scenic week-long trip splits time in two of British Columbia's popular destinations: Vancouver, with its multi-cultural restaurants, art galleries, museums, and Pacific Coast backdrop, and the smaller, more relaxed city of Kelowna, the unofficial capital of the vine-striped and orchard laden Okanagan Valley. You'll visit a variety of wineries, from large established estates to smaller family-run businesses, as well as overnight in the charming village of Harrison Hot Springs—the perfect introduction to southern British Columbia.
With two weeks, take your time as you explore the most beautiful spots along the southern coast of British Columbia. Starting with the seaside communities of the Sunshine Coast, you'll wind your way through hidden coves and inlets over to Vancouver Island. Here, you'll divide the remainder of your time between two outdoor paradises—the mountainous Strathcona Provincial Park and the storm-swept coastline of the Pacific Rim.
Starting and ending in Victoria, this loop follows the southern coastline of Vancouver Island before veering north through old-growth rainforest accessed by former logging roads. The reward? Countless remote beaches, some of the largest trees on the island, and numerous great hiking trails. This is the perfect itinerary for getting off the beaten path in a short amount of time.
This nine-day driving adventure focuses on the Canadian Rockies, including the Kootenay Rockies and the southern end of the vine-striped Okanagan. You'll explore British Columbia's impressive landscape, from emerald-green lakes to glacial rivers and rugged mountain tops. Challenge yourself with a half-day hike in Banff National Park, canoe the Columbia River Wetlands amid wildlife near Golden, and discover wines of the snaking Similkameen Valley en route to Vancouver.
With 10 days, you'll have plenty of time to explore the mountains around Whistler and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island. Starting in Vancouver, follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler where you'll base yourself for a few days. From there, take the ferry to Vancouver Island where you can hike, sea kayak, or take day adventures to remote islands and hot springs. Finally, wrap up your adventure in the provincial capital of Victoria.
With 10 days, you'll have just enough time to drive across British Columbia without feeling too rushed. You'll start with a few days of exploring the iconic Canadian Rockies before heading into the heart of the Kootenay Rockies, famous for its beautiful mountain towns and historic communities. End the trip with a couple of days of wine and relaxation before departing from Vancouver.
This quick trip gets you into the wilderness and wild coastline of Vancouver Island and is only a short drive away from Victoria. After exploring a number of beautiful beaches at the start, you'll overnight in Port Renfrew, known for being the jumping-off point of the famous West Coast Trail. From there, veer north through some of the island's tallest trees before circling back through the vineyards and lakes just north of Victoria.
With 5 days, you'll have just enough time to explore the Lower Sunshine Coast without feeling too rushed. Wake up next to the ocean before visiting quaint seaside villages, hidden coves, and the easily-accessible outdoors; the region has some of the province's best sea kayaking and hiking trails. Finally, end with a day in Vancouver before you depart.
One week is the perfect amount of time to truly relax and get a feel for the Sunshine Coast, an underrated stretch of coastline and islands just north of Vancouver. Here, you'll find quaint seaside villages with amazing restaurants and breweries, endless stretches of driftwood-strewn coastline, and numerous islands and protected coves to explore by kayak.
This itinerary is very fast-paced, designed for those who want to experience the Great Bear Rainforest and Chilcotin Plateau in a short amount of time. You'll have 2-4 hours of driving each day, with two nights in the beautiful Bella Coola Valley to unwind and recharge before taking the long ferry sailing to Vancouver Island. You'll also get a brief feel of the historical Gold Rush Trail, as you overnight in Cache Creek.
Get the true sea-to-summit experience as you road trip across British Columbia from the coast to the mountains. You'll follow some of Canada's most scenic highways through numerous provincial and national parks, culminating in the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rockies. This itinerary is designed to spend fewer days on the road and more time exploring the mountains, lakes, and rivers.
Follow one of Canada's most scenic road trips from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies. With 16 days, you'll have ample time to stop and explore Whistler and Wells Gray en route before devoting over a week to the hiking trails and backcountry of the Rockies. This route is best done from mid-May to mid-October.
Starting with a few days in the Canadian Rockies, venture south through the peaceful communities and impressive landscapes of the Kootenays. After long days in the outdoors, head to local hot spring resorts or backcountry pools where you can soak away the fatigue. This route covers a vast distance and involves driving most days, so is best suited for those who don't mind a faster-paced adventure.
This scenic road trip starts and ends in Vancouver and takes you through the Coastal Mountains to Shuswap Lake before turning south through the farms, orchards, and vineyards of the famed Okanagan Valley. Over eight days, you'll venture across southwestern and central British Columbia to explore exceptional landscapes from high alpine mountains to marshy lowlands and arid deserts in and around Osoyoos. Thread the weaving Gold Nugget Road, paddle a replica of a 30-foot voyageur canoe, and drink wine until your heart's content at world-class wineries in the Okanagan.
Head off into the remote wilderness of the west coast of British Columbia with a multi-day stay at Nimmo Bay Resort. You'll immediately feel at home at this family-run resort which is located on the coast of the Great Bear Rainforest. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, you can choose from a variety of adventures each day, from sea kayaking to grizzly bear viewing to helicopter tours.
Two weeks is just enough time to complete a road trip through the vast Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest without feeling too rushed. With relatively short drives each day, most of your time will be spent in the outdoors, where you can truly appreciate this unique and dramatic corner of British Columbia. This route is best suited for those who are looking for an adventure away from the crowds.
In eight days, you'll experience the best of Okanagan Valley's wine region. Starting and ending in Vancouver, this scenic drive takes you through the coastal mountains toward the drier interior of the Okanagan Valley. Split four days between Kelowna and Osoyoos, visiting both newer and more established wineries while taking in some outdoor adventure.
This road trip loops through British Columbia's Coastal Mountains to the Okanagan, taking in scenic mountain views, arid deserts, and vine-striped valleys. Beginning and ending in Vancouver, follow the Sea-to-Sky Highway north to Whistler, through Cariboo Country to the quaint lakeside community of Salmon Arm, and down through the Okanagan Valley to Osoyoos. Dine on east-meets-west cuisine in Vancouver, step back in time at Historic Hat Creek, and hike amid alpine meadows and lakes in E.C. Manning Provincial Park.
This itinerary includes two of Vancouver Island's best wildlife viewing locations as well as a diverse range of landscapes—from islands to rugged mountains to coastal rainforests. You'll have ample time to explore by paddle and by foot and to relax in cozy lodges perched along the coast. Finally, end your trip in Victoria before heading back to Vancouver for your departure.
An hour's flight north of Vancouver takes you to two of British Columbia's most remote landscapes—Tweedsmuir Provincial Park and the Great Bear Rainforest. Setting up base camp at two luxury wilderness resorts, disconnect yourself from the outside world, and fully immerse yourself in the mountains and coastal rainforest. Spend your days choosing from a variety of outdoor and wellness activities and your evenings dining on fresh gourmet meals.
This route is the perfect introduction to British Columbia’s west coast, combining ocean-based activities with rugged mountain trails and vibrant coastal communities. Starting and ending in Vancouver, you'll wind your way by car and ferry along the Sunshine Coast before crossing over to Vancouver Island. From there, you'll base yourself in the two beautiful nature reserves of Strathcona Provincial Park and the Pacific Rim.
This route focuses on getting you into the incredible mountain scenery of the Canadian Rockies, starting and ending in Calgary. You'll head north and south along the iconic Icefields Parkway while basing yourself in a few key locations along the way. As well, you'll explore beautiful Kananaskis Country, a region just south of Banff and Canmore that locals regard as their favorite hiking region (without the crowds of the more famous parks).
Follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway on this quick road trip between Vancouver and Whistler. Enjoy the urban pleasures of the city before getting a taste of the mountains in the upscale, chalet-style village of Whistler. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there are a number of opportunities: half-day hikes to alpine lakes, panoramic road-side vistas, luxury spas, and gondola rides to mountain peaks.
Experience the wild coastline of Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim. With three full days to explore the park, you can make day trips to remote islands or simply relax on the beach, sticking to the coastal trails. You'll also have a few days to experience Victoria and Vancouver's urban scene, great restaurants, and local shops.
Starting in Calgary and ending in Vancouver, you'll cross the Canadian Rockies with ample time to explore beautiful Banff National Park. After the Rockies, wind your way south through historic mining towns and lake country to the province's famous wine region, the Okanagan Valley. Here, in Osoyoos, visit some of the best smaller local wineries that British Columbia has to offer before ending your trip with a day to explore Vancouver.
Experience the best of the Canadian Rockies on this epic road trip from Calgary to Vancouver. Start by exploring famous Banff National Park before crossing over into British Columbia and heading south through interior lake country and historic mining communities. Finally, you'll have a few days to unwind and relax at the end of your trip by visiting some of the country's best wineries in the Okanagan Valley, surrounded by Canada's only desert.
With 13 days, you'll get a good taste of Vancouver and the Pacific Coast before heading east across the province to the Canadian Rockies. Here, you'll slow down the pace and spend the majority of your time exploring the hiking trails, lakes, and viewpoints in some of Canada's most spectacular mountain landscapes. For those seeking some comfort, combine this route with overnights in scenic wilderness lodges.
Starting and ending in Calgary, this loop covers the entire Kootenay Rockies, which combines dramatic mountain landscapes with lakeshore communities and plenty of hot springs. You'll begin with a few days in the Canadian Rockies before heading south to the hot springs and lakes of the Kootenays. Finally, you'll have a couple of days in Canmore to explore the underrated gem of Kananaskis Country.
With just under a week, this itinerary is designed to keep you moving each day so that you can experience all of the highlights of both Upper and Lower Sunshine Coast. You'll have short drives and ferry transfers each day, passing through Gibsons, Sechelt, all the way up to Powell River and Lund. En route, stop at historic seaside villages, local breweries, driftwood-strewn beaches and sheltered coves for easy kayaking.
In just 9 days, you'll drive the vast distance between Calgary and Vancouver, taking in the main highlights along the way. This specific route will have you spend two days in the Canadian Rockies before heading into the heart of the Kootenay Rockies to explore its small, historical towns. From there, finish your trip with a couple of days of enjoying the great wineries and restaurants of the Okanagan Valley before departing from Vancouver.
In 12 days, follow this popular drive across British Columbia from Vancouver to Calgary. This particular route focuses on two main regions—the wine hills of the Okanagan Valley and the dramatic mountains of the Canadian Rockies. You'll have ample time to explore both regions, as you'll have two nights in most locations. This drive is best done between May and October.
Base yourself in Whistler and the Pacific Rim to get the most out of your 8 days along the coast of British Columbia. This itinerary is designed for those who love the outdoors and want to immerse themselves in two of the region's most popular destinations. In Whistler, you'll find countless hiking and biking trails along with great restaurants, breweries, and spas. In the Pacific Rim, you'll be surrounded by dense coastal rainforest and island chains only accessible by kayak and floatplane.
This quick adventure features two of coastal British Columbia's most popular destinations—Whistler and the Pacific Rim. Skipping Vancouver, you'll head straight to Whistler for two days of exploring the mountains, lakes, and stunning outdoor scenery. From there, it's a long day of driving and sailing over to Tofino and the Pacific Rim on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Here, follow trails through coastal rainforest and along storm-swept coastlines or simply relax in your beach-side cottage while enjoying the views. It's also the perfect place to spot whales while sea kayaking to remote islands.
Spend the first half of your trip exploring the mountains and lakes of the Canadian Rockies before veering south through the beautiful wine region of the Okanagan Valley. Here, hit the bike trails, beaches, and check out the great local wineries in this desert-like region of Canada. Finally, end your trip with a couple of days to shop and eat out in Vancouver.
This short adventure to the Pacific Rim is a great way to escape the city for a few days. To make the most of your time, you'll catch a floatplane flight from downtown Vancouver which takes you directly to Tofino and to your lodge along the coast. Within the park, you can hike, bike, paddleboard, or sea kayak your way through the coastal rainforest and island chains. In the evenings, choose from a variety of world-class restaurants, galleries, and local craft breweries.
Spend 16 days driving through some of the most unique and remote wilderness in southern British Columbia. After a quick visit to Vancouver and Whistler, you'll slow down the driving as your make your way on Highway 20 from Gold Rush Country to the coastline of the Great Bear Rainforest. En route, hike, raft, go horseback riding, and take to the sky to fly over one of Canada's largest waterfalls. End your trip with some relaxation and comfort in the Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island.
Combine the mountains and the coast on this 9-day road trip. Starting and ending in Vancouver, you'll first head to the mountains and lakes around Whistler where you'll find countless hiking and biking trails. Then, taking the ferry over to Vancouver Island, you'll have a day on the beach before heading to the Pacific Rim, a beautifully rugged stretch of coastline that's famous for both adventure and relaxation. End your trip with a day to explore the great restaurants and neighborhoods of Victoria.
After a couple of days in Vancouver, head east to the dry interior of the Okanagan Valley, home to hundreds of local vineyards, fruit orchards, and lake parks. Split your days between mountain biking and hiking in the local mountains and visiting the wineries and restaurants in the afternoon. From here, the second half of your trip focuses on the dramatic peaks and alpine trails in the Canadian Rockies before departing from Calgary.
With 13 days, this is the minimum amount of time you'll want to explore the wild and remote Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest without feeling too rushed. Take your time following Highway 20 to Bella Coola along a narrow ribbon of asphalt that winds its way through a sparsely populated wilderness scattered with lakes, historic ranches, and prime grizzly bear and wildlife habitat. Here, you'll discover one of the most unspoiled and spectacular landscapes in North America. Finally, end the trip with a couple of days of relaxation on Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim.
Explore the beauty of southern British Columbia, from the stunning peaks of the Rockies to the fertile valley of the Okanagan. This 8-day drive begins in Calgary and ends in Vancouver and offers the outdoor enthusiast numerous opportunities to get into the rugged wilderness as well as indulge in more refined cultural experiences. You'll visit the small communities of the Slocan Valley, see the impressive Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park, and hike through the old-growth forests around Revelstoke.
Starting and ending in Vancouver, you'll follow a coastal circle route through the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island that focuses on the best outdoor adventures and most idyllic communities. On the Sunshine Coast, you'll find relaxed communities with great breweries and restaurants, while on Vancouver Island you'll end your adventure by exploring the remote islands and temperate rainforest of the Pacific Rim.
Follow one of British Columbia's most popular road trips, crossing the province from Vancouver to Calgary. While there are a few different routes to choose from, this itinerary takes you through the wine region and lake country of the Okanagan Valey before finishing your trip surrounded by the epic scenery of the Canadian Rockies. You'll have short driving days for most of the trip so you can maximize your time in the outdoors.
Starting and ending with a day in Vancouver, this route gives you ample time to explore the highlights of both Upper and Lower Sunshine Coast. Explore its hidden coves, deep fjords, and artsy seaside villages or hit the trails and hike through the nearby forests and mountains. This region is the perfect place to combine relaxation with easy access to outdoor adventures.
Get a taste of Vancouver before heading to the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim National Park. Here, you'll be surrounded by coastal rainforest and beautiful coastline with ample time to explore. Head off on a sea kayaking adventure, spot whales, and enjoy some of Canada's best cuisine in Ucluelet and Tofino. Finally, stop to explore Victoria before heading home.
After a couple of days of exploring the parks and great restaurants of Vancouver, escape to the Sunshine Coast for its laid-back vibe and accessible outdoor adventures. Despite it's proximity to Vancouver, this stretch of coastline often gets overlooked but those who venture here will no doubt love it—quaint seaside villages with great food and breweries, endless beach trails and hidden coves for kayaking, and an overall artsy vibe unique from the rest of British Columbia.
With 15 days, you'll have enough time to explore the hundreds of wineries and fruit farms of the fertile Okanagan Valley and immerse yourself in the dramatic scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way, go swimming in freshwater lakes, hike through cedar forests, and drive along some of the most iconic roadways in Canada. Finish your trip by exploring one of the Rockies' most underrated regions in Kananaskis Country.
This epic route across British Columbia takes you through some of the most impressive mountain landscapes in Canada. You'll base yourself in convenient locations for two-to-three days, with less time driving and more time exploring the trails and scenic viewpoints. As you near the Canadian Rockies, the views become even more impressive, where Kananaskis Country provides the perfecting ending to your trip.
With 9 days, this is the minimum amount of time you'll want to make the journey across British Columbia without feeling too rushed. After having a couple of days to explore Vancouver and Whistler, you'll head east to the impressive mountains, rivers, and waterfalls of the Canadian Rockies where you'll have shorter driving days and more time outdoors. This route is designed for nature lovers, focusing on the best parks, hidden gems, and ways to avoid the crowds.
This route takes you through the best of the Canadian Rockies to the wine country of the Okanagan Valley, where you can relax and unwind after your adventures in the mountains. Along the way, you'll pass through historic communities and the natural hot springs around Nakusp, Kaslo, and Nelson. Finally, end with a couple of days to explore Vancouver's great dining scene and local neighborhoods.
After a day in Vancouver, catch a scenic floatplane flight to the west coast of Vancouver Island where ancient rainforests, remote islands, and abundant wildlife await. You'll have three days to enjoy the Pacific Rim National Park, sea kayaking and hiking by day and delighting in the local great restaurants by night. Head back to Vancouver by floatplane, as well, before returning back home from Vancouver.
Highlighting the towering Canadian Rocky Mountains, the wild and rugged Kootenays, and the vineyards of the southern Okanagan, this 11-day road trip takes you from Canada's cowboy capital of Calgary through to the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver. You'll cover significant ground in some of the country's best national parks from hiking around the deep-teal Moraine Lake in popular Banff to soaking in the natural rock-lined hot pools of Lussier Hot Springs. Hike, bike, and white water raft your way around glacier-fed lakes, alpine meadows, and turbulent rivers.
Explore the spectacular mountain scenery of British Columbia’s southeast corner, dotted with alpine towns and lakeshore communities. Besides a couple of long days of driving near the end, the majority of your trip will be spent on mountain trails or soaking in the highly-mineralized springs of resorts and riverside pools. You'll also learn about the region's rich mining and railway history which attracted early settlers.
Get ready for a road trip adventure of a lifetime. This route takes you away from the crowds through the remote Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest before ending with some relaxation and comfort on Vancouver Island's west coast. Pass through a vast, raw wilderness dotted with lakes and historic ranches that transforms into dense temperate rainforest that has one of the world's highest concentrations fo grizzly bears.
Circle your way along the beautiful coastline, quaint seaside towns, and First Nation's heritage of British Columbia’s west coast. After a brief stay in Vancouver, you'll hit the road (and ferries) as you explore the Sunshine Coast before heading over to Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim National Park. Here, explore remote islands by kayak and hike through the dense coastal rainforest. Finally, end your trip with some time to enjoy the urban scenes of Victoria and Vancouver.
This itinerary takes you through four regions in 15 days, with the bulk of your time spent exploring the vast wilderness of the Chilcotin Plateau and the Great Bear Rainforest. Designed for those seeking to get away from it all and have a truly memorable experience, you'll pass through some of the most diverse and unique landscapes of British Columbia that are largely devoid of human settlement. Finally, end the trip with a couple days of relaxation in the famous Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island.
Visit two of the most popular destinations along coastal British Columbia—the alpine paradise around Whistler and the dramatic storm-swept coastline of Tofino and the Pacific Rim. You'll by following the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler before taking the ferry to Vancouver Island. On the island, spend three days exploring the coast by foot and by kayak before visiting Victoria, British Columbia's provincial capital.
This road trip crosses the breadth of British Columbia in 11 days, from the Pacific Coast Mountains to the rugged interior of the Canadian Rockies. The first half of the trip includes a few longer days of driving before slowing down the pace to shift your focus to the countless trails and vantage points surrounding Jasper, Banff, and underrated Kananaskis Country.
Explore the best of British Columbia's coastline by car and ferry on this 11-day road trip. Starting in Vancouver, head to the Sunshine Coast to explore the fjords, beaches, and seaside communities before ending your trip with three days along Vancouver Island's rugged Pacific Rim. This itinerary is a great way to combine outdoor adventure while exploring local culture and maritime history.
With 20 days, get ready for a true adventure into the remote and sparsely populated landscape of the Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest. After taking the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway north into Gold Rush Country, you'll veer west on Highway 20 for one of the most memorable drives of your life. Here, the frontier spirit converges with one of the best-preserved and most densely populated wildlife habitats of the Pacific Northwest. Finally, end your trip at one of the cozy coastal lodges along the Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island.
This epic road trip takes you into the heart of British Columbia's ranchlands and coastal rainforest, through some of the most accessible remote wilderness from Vancouver. After passing through Whistler and Gold Rush Country, you'll head west along Highway 20. Here, you'll spend less time driving and more time exploring the vast Chilcotin Plateau and trails of the Great Bear Rainforest. Finally, end your trip on Vancouver Island's rugged pacific coast before returning back to Vancouver.
With minimal time in the city, this itinerary focuses on the unique beauty and diverse landscapes of the wild Chilcotin Plateau and the Great Bear Rainforest. After following the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler, you'll head north for a true Canadian adventure across a vast, sparsely populated landscape. From there, it's a full day's ferry sailing to Vancouver Island, where you'll end your trip along the wild coastline of the Pacific Rim.
