BC adventures that will leave you speechless
Some experiences are difficult to put into words. These BC adventures might leave you speechless, but that’s all the more reason to give them a try.
Some experiences are difficult to put into words. These BC adventures might leave you speechless, but that’s all the more reason to give them a try.
Some experiences are difficult to put into words. The freeing energy of the ocean. The reverence of an ancient rainforest. Heartfelt connections with local cultures and community. You might not be able to fully describe your BC experience, but you’ll certainly feel it, deeply.
Soak up the vibrancy of a lively city surrounded by nature in Vancouver, Victoria, or the mountain town of Whistler. Museums, galleries, Indigenous experiences, attractions, and restaurants abound in these urban areas, and you’re never far from the magic of the outdoors.
These BC adventures might leave you speechless, but that’s all the more reason to give them a try.
Enjoy Mountain Adventures, From Sea to Sky
Vancouver’s North Shore, Squamish, and Whistler are surrounded by vast wilderness. The aptly named Sea-to-Sky Corridor is where the emerald waters of the Pacific Ocean collide with the lush rainforest and jagged peaks of the Coast Mountain range. The Átl’ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound watershed, which begins at Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver and stretches north to Black Tusk on the outskirts of Whistler, is so ecologically unique and rich with biodiversity it has been given a prestigious designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Experience the beauty for yourself: The Sea-to-Sky is a hub for outdoor activities, all within a short drive of Metro Vancouver. Take to the trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking or head out on a heart-pumping rafting excursion. Reach a distant summit by way of a scenic gondola ride at Grouse Mountain, the Sea to Sky Gondola, or Whistler Blackcomb, and cap off the trip with a warm drink and refreshments in a cozy lodge with alpine views (Christine’s Restaurant on Blackcomb Mountain is a must).
Learn About Deep-Rooted Indigenous Cultures
Connect with and learn about rich and diverse Indigenous cultures through a wide range of authentic experiences.
Greater Victoria is located on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples. The area now known as Beacon Hill Park is the site of an ancient Songhees village and is now home to one of the world’s tallest, free-standing totem poles carved from a single log. Delve further into Indigenous culture with an Explore Songhees walking or canoe tour near Ship Point in the Inner Harbour. Mark Loria Gallery on Fort Street offers a glimpse of striking contemporary Indigenous artwork. And, if you feel like a little road trip, drive one hour North to Duncan to take the self-guided Totem Tour Walk.
On the mainland, Metro Vancouver, the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Peoples, is also a hub for Indigenous experiences. Sample specialty cuisine at Salmon ‘n Bannock (they now have a second location at Vancouver International Airport). Book a tour with Talaysay Tours and Takaya Tours, both of whom connect visitors to a deeper understanding of the area, from traditional plant knowledge to place names, and legends to landmarks.
Continue north to Whistler, where you can learn about the shared territory of the Lil’wat and Squamish Nations. Stop at Cultural Journey kiosks along Highway 99 on the way to learn about important Indigenous cultural sites, culminating in a fascinating visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler.
Stroll the Rugged Coastline
BC beaches are as unique as the shiny pebbles that dot their shores. Sandy enclaves with secret caves and oceanside walks amongst old-growth trees offer a glimpse of the rugged west coast.
The spring herring spawn is a signal of changing seasons. Sea lions, whales, marine birds, and seals flock to inlets and islands on the hunt for these keystone species, creating a cacophony of sound and buzzing activity. Bust out the binoculars and watch it all unfold.
On Vancouver Island, the urban comforts of Victoria are never far from the ocean, with easy access to city beaches and a short drive to the wilder seaside of Juan De Fuca Provincial Park. Across the Salish Sea in Metro Vancouver, you can leave footprints in the sand at numerous oceanside parks. Tip: Head to Iona Beach Regional Park in Richmond for spectacular sunsets and birdwatching.
Sample the Bounty of BC
There’s always something sizzling at local restaurants. BC has a global reputation for innovative cuisine and a flare for fresh, sustainable ingredients (case in point: The new MICHELIN Guide Vancouver). Pair your visit to local restaurants with a vintage from one of the province’s nine wine regions or locally brewed craft beer (the BC Ale Trail is a must for beer aficionados).
The table is set for culinary adventures, from fresh spot prawns plucked from the Pacific to seasonal produce harvested from fertile valleys. Get an introduction to family-run farms, local provisioners, and regional wine with a self-guided Circle Farm Tour of the Fraser Valley or Victoria’s Flavour Trail. Become a gastronaut, travelling neighbourhood by neighbourhood to sample local fare; the Richmond Dumpling Trail, Surrey Spice Trail, and Vancouver’s Flavourhoods are a must.
You’ll even find fine dining options in the heart of the mountains. In Whistler, newly minted Wild Blue has been named one of the most exciting local restaurants to open in a decade, joining long-standing Alta Bistro as an ingredient-driven staple in the foodie community.
Explore the BC Coast By Watercraft
Spring is a great time to get out on the water. Sail, float, or paddle through archipelagos, fjords, and peninsulas as you take in waterfalls, rainbows, and plenty of marine life.
Beginning in March, you can book a whale-watching trip departing from Vancouver, Richmond, or Victoria. Hop on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak to get closer to the action and view the shore from a new perspective. There are plenty of tours, lessons, and rentals available. One unforgettable way to get out onto the turquoise waters of Howe Sound is a hands-on sailing trip with Canadian Coastal, where you can hoist the main and steer the boat.
Always be prepared when you venture out on land or the water. Follow BC AdventureSmart 3 Ts: Trip Planning, Training, and Taking the Essentials.