British Columbia’s top road trip spots include the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Okanagan Valley, Pacific Rim Highway, Kootenay Rockies, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Island loop, Fraser Canyon, Great Bear Rainforest, Columbia Icefields, and the Thompson-Okanagan Circle Route. Each offers stunning scenery and unique experiences for all types of travellers.
British Columbia is a road tripper's paradise, filled with majestic coastlines, rugged mountains, charming towns, and diverse ecosystems. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, BC offers some of the most scenic drives in North America. In this expanded guide, we’ll explore 10 of the best road trip destinations across the province—with useful details on distance, ideal travel time, what each route is perfect for, and insider travel tips.
1. Sea-to-Sky Highway (Vancouver to Whistler)
- Distance from Vancouver: 120 km (~1.5 to 2 hours one way)
- Perfect for: First-time visitors, adventure seekers, weekend getaways
- Best Time to Travel: May to October (clear skies, dry roads, great hiking conditions)
- Travel Tips: Start early to beat the crowds and get parking at popular stops like Shannon Falls and Sea to Sky Gondola. Watch for sharp curves and speed changes.
This iconic drive offers stunning views of the Howe Sound, mountain cliffs, and waterfalls. Highlights include Horseshoe Bay, Squamish (ideal for outdoor sports), Brandywine Falls, and Whistler’s year-round adventure offerings.
2. Okanagan Valley (Kelowna, Penticton)
- Distance from Vancouver: ~390 km to Kelowna, ~420 km to Penticton
- Perfect for: Wine lovers, beachgoers, families
- Best Time to Travel: June to September (sunny and warm)
- Travel Tips: Book wine tours in advance, and bring a cooler for fresh produce. Weekdays are quieter for wine tasting.
A drive through the Okanagan Valley immerses you in BC's wine country. Spend your time enjoying tastings at local wineries, exploring beaches, cycling the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, or browsing local markets.
3. Pacific Rim Highway (Tofino & Ucluelet via Highway 4)
- Distance from Nanaimo: ~210 km to Tofino (~3 hours)
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, surfers, romantic getaways
- Best Time to Travel: April to October; November to February for storm watching
- Travel Tips: Drive carefully on winding roads, especially in poor weather. Make accommodation reservations early in peak season.
This route leads to BC's wild west coast. Stop at Cathedral Grove, Sproat Lake, and end up in Tofino for surfing, wildlife tours, or beachcombing. Ucluelet offers a quieter alternative and access to the Wild Pacific Trail.
4. Kootenay Rockies (Nelson, Fernie, Cranbrook)
- Distance from Vancouver: ~700 km depending on route (~8-10 hours from Vancouver)
- Perfect for: History buffs, mountain lovers, hot spring seekers
- Best Time to Travel: June to September for hiking, December to March for skiing
- Travel Tips: Watch for wildlife on mountain roads. Bring layers—weather can shift quickly.
The Kootenay Rockies are an outdoor paradise. Enjoy heritage towns, natural hot springs, and incredible mountain scenery. Nelson charms with its arts scene; Fernie and Cranbrook provide access to nature and winter sports.
5. The Sunshine Coast (Gibsons to Powell River)
- Distance from Vancouver: ~180 km total (plus 2 ferry rides, ~5-6 hours total travel time)
- Perfect for: Artists, couples, kayaking and slow travel
- Best Time to Travel: May to September
- Travel Tips: Check BC Ferries schedules and book in advance. Carry cash for small local shops.
A tranquil journey dotted with artisan studios, coastal trails, and charming towns. Explore Skookumchuck Narrows, Savary Island, and enjoy seaside cafes and paddleboard spots along the way.
6. Vancouver Island Loop (Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, Port Hardy)
- Distance from Victoria: ~700+ km loop (~10-12 hours drive time total)
- Perfect for: Wildlife watchers, RV travellers, cultural explorers
- Best Time to Travel: May to October
- Travel Tips: Book ferry crossings early (especially with RVs). Allow at least 5-7 days for a relaxed loop.
Start in Victoria and head north along the east coast of Vancouver Island, experiencing everything from city culture to remote coastal wilderness. Campbell River is great for bear and whale watching, and Port Hardy provides a remote escape.
7. Fraser Canyon & Cariboo Wagon Road (Hope to Quesnel)
- Distance from Hope: ~650 km (~7-9 hours total drive time)
- Perfect for: History lovers, families, road trip storytellers
- Best Time to Travel: May to October
- Travel Tips: Fuel up in major towns; amenities can be limited. Consider staying overnight in a historic inn.
Trace the footsteps of Gold Rush pioneers. Visit Hell’s Gate Airtram, Alexandra Bridge, and small towns like Clinton and 100 Mile House. You’ll encounter rich history and picturesque views of the Fraser River and canyon.
8. Great Bear Rainforest (Bella Coola Region)
- Distance from William Lake ~450-500 km (~6-8 hours, remote roads)
- Perfect for: Wilderness adventurers, wildlife photographers, eco-tourists
- Best time to travel: Late August to October (grizzly bear viewing), summer for general access
- Travel tips: Bring extra fuel, water, and supplies. Check road conditions regularly. Hire local guides for bear viewing and cultural tours.
One of the most remote and pristine regions in BC, the Great Bear Rainforest is home to rare wildlife, towering cedar forests, and deep Indigenous heritage. The road to Bella Coola includes the challenging "Hill," a narrow descent with switchbacks.
9. Columbia Icefields & Mount Robson via Highway 16
- Distance / Time: ~300-400 km depending on start point (~3.5-5 hours)
- Perfect for: Glacier lovers, photographers, backcountry hikers
- Best Time to Travel: June to September
- Travel Tips: Dress in layers, even in summer. Trail closures may occur due to snow or bears.
Explore the western edge of the Canadian Rockies. Mount Robson—BC’s highest peak—offers epic views and hiking trails. Nearby, the Icefields Parkway connects to Alberta with stunning stops like Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield.
10. Circle Route through Thompson-Okanagan (Kamloops, Merritt, Peachland)
- Distance from Kamloops: ~350-500 km loop (~5-6 hours total drive time)
- Perfect for: Road trip beginners, couples, wine and heritage explorers
- Best Time to Travel: May to September
- Travel Tips: Plan for scenic rest stops. Visit local farm stands and Indigenous-owned businesses.
This less-traveled loop showcases BC’s dry interior, cowboy country, and wine country. Kamloops offers outdoor adventure; Merritt highlights BC’s country music roots, and Peachland provides lakeside relaxation.
Road Trip Tips
Planning a successful road trip through British Columbia means being ready for diverse terrain, changing weather, and remote stretches of highway. To help you make the most of your BC adventure, here are practical tips covering the best time to travel, what to pack, safety reminders, route planning, and ways to support local communities along the way.
Best Time to Travel
The best time for a BC road trip is from late spring to early fall (May to October). These months offer mild to warm weather, open mountain passes, and access to key attractions like parks, wineries, and coastal sites. Autumn (September to early October) is especially stunning in regions like the Okanagan and Kootenays, where fall foliage creates breathtaking backdrops for your drive.
Packing Essentials
British Columbia’s weather can vary widely—even within the same day. Pack layered clothing to stay comfortable across different climates, from coastal rain to alpine chill. Include offline maps or a GPS since some remote areas have limited cell service. Bring a car charger, snacks, plenty of water, and a basic first-aid kit. If you're headed into the backcountry or less-traveled routes, carry extra fuel and emergency supplies just in case.
Travel Safety
Before leaving, do a full vehicle check—especially tires, brakes, fluid levels, and lights. If you’re taking on mountainous terrain, ensure your brakes and cooling system are in top shape. Carry an emergency kit that includes jumper cables, a flashlight, a blanket, and basic tools. In winter or early spring, check for road closures or snow tire requirements, especially for routes through the Rockies or northern BC.
Plan Your Route
BC is vast, and many top destinations are several hours apart with few services in between. Plan your route realistically, allowing enough time for breaks, sightseeing, and overnight stays. Be prepared for ferry crossings if you're visiting Vancouver Island or the Sunshine Coast, and book in advance during peak seasons. Flexibility is key—weather or wildlife sightings might just change your schedule for the better!
Support Local
Enhance your trip by supporting BC’s local communities. Stay in locally owned inns or eco-lodges, eat at independent restaurants or food trucks, and shop at farmers’ markets, Indigenous art shops, or roadside stands. Whether you're sipping wine in the Okanagan or buying smoked salmon on the coast, you're contributing to the local economy and gaining a more authentic travel experience.
FAQs About Best Road Trip Destinations in BC
Exploring British Columbia by Car? Whether you're a first-time road-tripper or a seasoned traveler looking for new scenic routes, here are answers to some of the most common questions adventurers ask when hitting the road in BC.
The best include the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Okanagan Valley, Pacific Rim Highway, Kootenay Rockies, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Island loop, Fraser Canyon, Great Bear Rainforest, Columbia Icefields, and Thompson-Okanagan Circle Route.
About 1.5 to 2 hours from Vancouver to Whistler without stops.
May to October is ideal for most routes, offering clear roads, great weather, and full access to attractions.
No for most routes, but a 4x4 is recommended for remote areas like Bella Coola and the Great Bear Rainforest.
Yes, it’s one of BC’s most stunning coastal destinations, known for beaches, surfing, and nature.
Conclusion: Hit the Road
British Columbia is packed with road trip opportunities for every type of traveller—from adventure junkies to history lovers, foodies to photographers. By adding travel time, seasonal advice, and practical tips, your journey can be as smooth as it is memorable.
So fuel up, pack smart, and hit the road—BC awaits with open roads and unforgettable experiences.
