when we think of Canada, some of the first names that come to mind are those of cities like Toronto, Montreal or Quebec. However, for many, the West Coast of the country is home to some of the best scenery, especially in the state of British Columbia.
From towering mountain ranges and wind-swept beaches to vibrant forests, the cities and towns of British Columbia (or British Columbia) share a deep connection with the nature around them.
Together with Hello BC, we share 5 must-see places to visit in Canada’s British Columbia
1. Vancouver (main photo)
In Vancouver, Mother Nature certainly commands attention. Whether we’re strolling the beach, shopping on Robson Street, or exploring historic Gastown, we can see the Pacific Ocean or the forest-clad Coastal Mountains from almost anywhere in the city, so close we can practically reach out and touch them. A great option is to rent a kayak and cruise along scenic routes, hike or ski the North Shore Mountains, or just relax on the beach.
2. Haida Gwaii
This remote and rugged archipelago is steeped in the ancient culture of the Haida First Nation. Here, the ancient forest is surrounded by a rich marine environment, home to a unique subspecies found only on these magical islands. Gwaii Haanas, a highly protected area jointly overseen by Parks Canada and the Haida Nation, is home to extraordinary natural landscapes and cultural treasures, including ancient totem poles that are slowly decaying and being reclaimed by the land.
3. Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains conjure up images of lofty, snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and dense evergreen forests. In British Columbia, that amazing Rocky Mountain landscape stretches across the entire province. Unesco named the Canadian Rocky Parks along the border between Canada and the state of Alberta a World Heritage Site, in part because of their spectacular beauty. The area is also globally significant because of the Burgess Shale fossil site, which shows in incredible detail what the Earth was like more than 500 million years ago.
4. Whistler: the best place to ski
Whistler Blackcomb is consistently named the #1 resort in North America and it’s not hard to see why. Skiers and guests can explore more terrain here than anywhere else on the continent, with the summits of two legendary mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, connected by the spectacular PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. In summer, the pedestrian village is packed with hikers, mountain bikers, and golfers. Access from Vancouver is via the Sea-to-Sky Highway, which follows an impressive coastline for much of its length.
5. Alaska Highway
Sure, driving on the Alaska Highway is challenging, but the rewards are enormous. Literally. First is the distance traveled: nearly a thousand kilometers of this historic route is in British Columbia alone. Then there’s the scenery: the mighty Rocky Mountains and mile after mile of pristine wilderness virtually untouched by humans. And the wildlife: you’ll most likely see herds of bison roaming along the highway, bighorn sheep showing off the road’s minerals, and possibly mountain goats, elk, and bears.
For more information on all the tourism possibilities offered by the state of British Columbia, we invite you to visit its official website, by clicking here.
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