Last week, I wrote about why more British Columbians may be choosing to vacation closer to home this summer, and how the traditional road trip has become an appealing way to stretch vacation dollars while still creating meaningful experiences together.
The good news is that choosing to stay in British Columbia isn’t about settling for less – it’s about discovering more. Ours is one of the few places in the world where families can experience rugged coastlines, mountain peaks , crystal-clear lakes, historic towns, Indigenous culture, and vibrant small communities. Every region offers something unique, and every highway has the potential to lead to a new favourite destination.
The options are endless, but here are five road trips that showcase some of the very best British Columbia has to offer.
- Vancouver Island: Where Every Stop Feels Like a Vacation
F
ew destinations offer as much variety as Vancouver Island.
Spend the morning walking beneath ancient Douglas firs at Cathedral Grove before heading west to Long Beach for an afternoon on one of Canada’s most spectacular coastlines. Families can explore tidal pools, watch surfers, spot whales, or simply enjoy fish and chips overlooking the Pacific.
For those looking for a slower pace, communities like Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Sidney offer family-friendly beaches, farmers’ markets and waterfront trails, while Victoria combines history, gardens and vibrant harbour life.
- The Okanagan: Beaches, Orchards and Endless Sunshine
The Okanagan has lo
ng been one of BC’s favourite family destinations, and for good reason.
Crystal-clear lakes, warm weather, bike trails, fruit stands and countless parks make it easy to keep everyone entertained without spending a fortune.
Whether you’re paddleboarding on Kalamalka or Okanagan Lake, cycling the historic Myra Canyon trestles, or stopping for fresh peaches and cherries at roadside markets, every day offers something different.
- The Kootenays: Mountains, Hot Springs and Hidden Gems
For families looking to slow down and reconnect, the Kootenays deliver.
Historic mountain communities, scenic lakes, natural hot springs and quiet highways make this one of BC’s most rewarding drives.
Children can explore heritage railways and beaches while parents discover local cafés, artisans and spectacular mountain scenery around every corner.
- The Interior and Northern BC: Where Adventure Meets Discovery
For families looking to experience some of British Columbia’s most spectacular landscapes, the Interior and the North offer road trips unlike anywhere else.
Step back into the Gold Rush era in Barkerville, explore the ranch country and lakes of the Cariboo or venture farther north to communities like Prince George, Smithers, and Prince Rupert, where breathtaking mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, rich Indigenous culture and unforgettable outdoor adventures await.
These journeys are a reminder that some of BC’s greatest experiences aren’t found in major cities – they’re discovered along quiet highways, scenic backroads, and the welcoming communities that make our province so unique.
- Sea-to-Sky and the Fraser Canyon: Big Adventures Close to Home
Not every memorable road trip requires several days. Families living in Metro Vancouver can experience waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, suspension bridges and dramatic canyon scenery within a few hours of home.
The Sea-to-Sky Highway remains one of Canada’s iconic drives, while the Fraser Canyon offers equally impressive scenery and fascinating history just beyond the Fraser Valley.
No matter where your summer takes you, the journey starts with a vehicle that’s ready for BC’s diverse driving conditions. Long climbs through mountain passes, hot summer temperatures, gravel roads to campsites and fully loaded vehicles all place additional demands on tires, brakes, cooling systems and batteries. A seasonal inspection at your local new car dealership can provide peace of mind before setting out.
Just as importantly, remember that some of the best memories aren’t planned. A roadside fruit stand. A family-run diner. A small museum you never expected to visit. An unexpected swimming hole. These are often the moments children remember years later.
Sometimes the perfect vacation isn’t somewhere far away. Sometimes it’s waiting just down the highway. Visit Superaturalbc.com for more information.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
