Vast stretches of rugged land and big open skies define the Canadian landscape. With a landmass of 9.1 million square kilometres, Canada is the world's second largest country ( behind Russia). The country is bordered by three oceans: Pacific, Atlantic and Artic. British Columbia is particularly stunning, and boast some of the countries most breathtaking views. Driving through BC is an exhilarating experience that can't be missed!
Driving from Vancouver to Whister along the this winding stretch of road is like entering the heavens. With mighty, soaring cliffs on one side and deep, pristine waters on the other, this route takes you away from civilization an into the arms of nature, beautiful and raw. You'll pass waterfalls, canyons, rivers, mountains lush forest. Small towns are dotted along this journey, including those that pay homage to First Nation's history.
Starting from: Vancouver
Distance: 162 kilometres
driving time: Under a day
stops worth braking for: Britannia Beach, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, the Stawamus Chief, Squamish, Sea to Sky Gondola, Whistler Blackcomb.
From cosmopolitan city core to laid back surf capital of Canada, this route takes you through majestic old growth forests, sandy beaches and mountainous hiking utopias. Leaving Vancouver, you'll take the ferry to Vancouver Island and journey along beautiful scenery until you arrive where the waves are alive with enticing fever.
Starting from: Vancouver
Distance: 300 kilometres
driving time: 1 to 3 days
stops worth braking for: MacMillan Provincial Park, Ucluelet Aquarium, the Wild Pacific Trail, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
This route is via northern BC's main highway that winds through Prince George, the Lakes District, Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert. This drive through Canada's pristine wilderness is an outdoor adventure of towering forests, grand peaks and energetic rivers.
To make the full journey to see BC's northern beauty, some preparation is necessary as it's a trip ideally made over several days or even even weeks, as you stop along the way to savour the picture perfect, instagram brag-worthy scenery.
Starting from: Vancouver
Distance: 1560 kilometres
driving time: 5-9 days
stops worth braking for: Hudson Bay Mountain near Smithers, Mt. Robson, Creek Provincial Park near Terrace
Hot springs are nature's original spa! This route passes through BC's Kootenay Rockies region and takes you along a string of natural pools, from upscale resorts to au-naturel dips in the woods. Drive through some of the world's most impressive lake and mountain scenery, rich with railway history, mountain resorts, wildlife tours and outdoor thrills.
Starting from: Cranbrook
Distance: 851 kilometres
driving time: 7 days
stops worth braking for: Fairmont Hot Springs, Kootenay National Park, Mount Revelstoke, Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area
Maybe you're more of a "glam" type of person who doesn't like to sweat. BC's for you too! This route brings together wine indulgences and hot spring resorts for those who prefer first rate pampering. Starting in Golden, this southeastern BC drive winds through the sparkling lakes and romantic vineyards of the Okanagan Valley, passing Canada's only real desert and toward the peaks and glaciers of the Rocky Mountains. On the way, you'll find golf courses and lift-accessed hiking, as well as historic towns where you can spend lazy days and nights.
Starting from: Golden
Distance: 1260 kilometres
driving time: 7 to 10 days
stops worth braking for: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Yoho National Park, Kimberley Alpine Resort, Columbia Gardens Vineyard & Winery.