BC is blessed with an abundance of beautiful nature, and that extends to some of the most charming lake towns in the country. And you don’t’ have to wait until spring or summer to enjoy them all – so before the weather gets too chilly, why not plan a couple of fall day trips?
From Osoyoos to Lillooet, here are 8 beautiful lake towns to visit near Vancouver.
Osoyoos
We’re starting off with one of the most well-known towns on this list. Home to a rapidly growing wine and horticulture scene, Osoyoos has plenty to enjoy when it comes to food and beverage, in addition to traditional lake day activities.
Our advice? Check out Row Fourteen restaurant at Klippers Organic Acres for delicious bites and cider, and hit up these wineries in the Similkameen Valley before going for a fall dip in the lake – which happens to be one of the warmest in Canada!
Naramata
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Also situated on Okanagan Lake is Naramata – a hotspot for wine enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Located along the southeast shore of Okanagan Lake, the town also has hundreds of trails to offer hikers as well as endless opportunities for water activities.
Nelson
Located on the shores of Kootenay Lake, Nelson is a town with a ton of charm and natural beauty, as well as a vibrant local arts and culture scene. Surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains, you’ll definitely have beautiful views to admire while you peruse the local downtown shops.
Invermere
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With close access to both Lake Windermere and the Rocky Mountains, Invermere is a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts, though this one’s a bit of a trek from Vancouver – at an approximate nine-hour drive. But if you’re going for a weekend getaway, this relaxed, friendly town should be at the top of your list!
Squamish
On the other hand, Squamish is one of the closest lake towns to Vancouver on this list. A buzzing food and craft beer scene attracts plenty of visitors year-round, as does its incredible hiking and camping options, and views off of Howe Sound.
Pitt Meadows
Located along Pitt River and the largest freshwater tidal lake in North America, Pitt Meadows is a great spot near Vancouver to do some fishing and boating, no matter the season.
Lillooet
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Although not technically a town per se, the District of Lillooet is well worth the four-hour-or-so trip out from Vancouver. Beautiful scenery, great food, and some of the best camping options in the province, which is a sentiment we don’t take likely in a place as beautiful as BC.
Harrison Hot Springs
Picturesque town? Check. Plenty of daytime activities? Double check. Harrison Hot Springs is just a 90-minute drive from Vancouver, and it offers every member of the family something fun to enjoy, whether that’s lounging at the mineral pools at the Hot Springs Resort & Spa, or golfing at The Falls Golf Club.
And that’s a wrap on some fantastic lake towns you can visit near Vancouver this spring. Happy day tripping!
