Top 5 Places to Visit in BC

If there’s one thing British Columbia has going for it, it’s the natural beauty. Vast as the entirety of Western Europe (and then some), it would take a lifetime to explore all of BC’s splendid nooks and crannies. And while we are all blessed with a single lifetime, until we’re all working five day weekends we have to pick and choose where in BC to explore. Here’s our top 5 places to visit in BC.

Whistler

If mountain recreation is in your blood, Whistler is likely on your list. The biggest ski resort, the biggest mountain bike park and almost every other mountain pursuit can be found in Whistler in some shape or form. As famous as the winter skiing is, the last decade has seen an explosion of visitor popularity during the summer months for sight seeing, hiking, zip-lining, golfing, recreating or simply a place to party. The two hour drive from Vancouver makes it a no-brainer. More info: [here].

Smithers

Representing Northern BC on this list, Smithers has evolved into a chic town centre with thriving entertainment scene that few people expect to find in such a remote locale. Skiing is excellent in the region, especially in the backcountry. It also has an international reputation for its fishing with easy access to the Bulkley River, one of the best locations for steelhead angling on the West Coast. More info: [here].

Nelson

Known as “a small city with big personality,” Nelson sits on the west arm of Kootenay Lake surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains. The culture of Nelson can best be described as eclectic; everything from alternative hippies to die hard outdoors folk to entrepreneurs and creatives. It has a dynamic arts scene and some of the best snow for skiing and snowboarding in the province. Don’t forget to check out Rossland on your drive through the West Kootenays. More info: [here].

Tofino

Vancouver Island has dozens of worthwhile destinations, but if you have one chance to stop, make sure it’s in Tofino. Named the best surf destination in North America by Outside Magazine in 2010, Tofino hosts every kind of coastal activity including kayaking, whale watching, camping, hiking and cultural tours of local Fist Nations. This is the end of the road on the long drive up Vancouver Island, but should not be missed on any BC summer tour. More info: [here].

Okanagan Valley

If food and wine is one of your main motivations to travel then the Okanagan Valley should be near the top of your list. Home to the province’s finest wineries, visitors often take advantage of the lakes for beaches, boating and water sports. The winter has some excellent skiing at Big White and Silverstar ski resorts. More info: [here].