While summer might be the classic road trip season, Vancouverites can certainly plan a cozy winter getaway and still have plenty of options when it comes to hitting the open road. After all, there are a ton of winter cabins with hot tubs and festive towns to check out around B.C., so why not take advantage of all the season has to offer? Here are 7 scenic road trips you can take from Vancouver this winter.
Tofino
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Yes, even in wintertime – Tofino is one scenic spot, and definitely ranks as a top road trip destination no matter the season. Fill your car with surfboards (or just rent them when you get there) and enjoy a bit of winter surfing. The scenic journey will begin with a ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Vancouver Island, and end with a drive through massive old-growth forests on the way to the surf capital of the country – plus, one of the greatest beaches in the world!
Join their annual Jingle into Christmas tradition and walk down the beach, meet local merchants & vendors around town, and visit the outdoor Tofino Night Market.
Where: Vancouver Island, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 5.5 hours
Vernon
Bordered by the beautiful Okanagan Lake and Lake Kalamalka, Vernon is a BC hot spot for many reasons. Hike along the rail trail, stay afloat on one of the three inviting lakes, go wine tasting, bike your way through the challenging bike trails, or take a stroll along the cute little downtown street, which is lined with holiday decor this time of year. Consider Vernon as the less crowded version of Kelowna. Sweeping views and tons to do, minus the waves of tourists.
Where: Okanagan Valley, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 5 hours
Osoyoos
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Even smaller than Vernon is the cute town of Osoyoos, home to Canada’s only desert. Apart from the unreal views all around, two things make Osoyoos perfect for a chill-cation: Great wineries, beautiful beaches, and snow-capped mountains that envelop you in winter charm. Everywhere you look, you’ll find a lake which means you can easily go for a cold plunge, if that’s your thing. Or you can hit the slopes at Mount Baldy and check out the all-new tube park, visit the Art Gallery, or peruse the cute cafes and specialty shops on Main Street.
Where: Okanagan Valley, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 5 hours
Kelowna
Whether you take the oft-travelled Trans Canada Highway or opt for the extra scenic Highway 7 to Highway 1 route, Kelowna is a hot spot for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and folks looking for their next outdoor adventure no matter the time of year. Regardless of whether or not you fall in love with BC bubbly while you’re there, there’s still plenty to do by way of outdoor fun.
Feel like switching things up? Take a quick detour to Merritt, BC – the country music capital of Canada. The small town has all the charm, history, and friendliness you’d expect, and they’re very proud of the slew of iconic artists who have performed there. Think Keith Urban, The Dixie Chicks, and Tim McGraw – the classics.
Where: Okanagan Valley, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 4 hours
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Lillooet
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Lillooet is your typical BC beauty lined with mountains, lakes, and rushing creeks scattered in the hilly areas. Naturally, there are enough trails and water activities to keep you busy all day long, plus a ton of first-come-first-serve campsites that are perfect for getting away from the city and enjoying a good campfire & smores setup. So long as you have plenty of layers and are okay with the cold!
Where: Northeast of Vancouver, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 3.5 hours
Harrison Hot Springs Village
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Soothing hot waters, quiet spas and relaxing massages are what come to mind when thinking of Harrison Hot Springs. And so for that reason, we want to put the hot springs on your road trip map this winter.
Where: Fraser Valley, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
Skagit Valley Provincial Park
Did someone say winter hike? Skagit Valley Provincial Park is a stunning place to set up shop for a day or two – and it’s not just a hike-bike-fish-boat destination. Of course, you can do all of those things in the summertime, but it’s also a great spot to enjoy different climate zones. First, you’ll encounter a fir and fern-covered damp rainforest along the coast. As you climb higher, however, you’ll find yourself treading the dry, rocky, pine-lined forest. Definitely a worthwhile adventure, if you ask us!
Where: Hope, BC
Drive time from Vancouver: 4.25 hours
And that’s the list, Vancouver. We hope you make the most of the season and get in some quality road trips while the weather is fair and hit the slopes!
