British Columbia – So much more than just mountains

When someone mentions ‘British Columbia’ you probably think of the majestic, snow-capped mountains the province is so famous for. While the mighty mountains alone are definitely enough to make this province a great destination for year-round outdoor adventures, British Columbia is so much more than just mountains.

There is no denying that this western province has a lot going for it in terms of natural beauty and we, as outdoor enthusiasts, could not be happier to take advantage of that. So let’s look past the mountains for a moment and explore what else British Columbia has to offer.

 

Orca in Tofino
Photo: ©Destination BC / Adrian Dorst


Coastal adventures
British Columbia has an impressive 25,725 km of coastline dotted with some 40,000 islands. Not only that, the pacific coast of Canada is known to be one of the most diverse marine environments in the world. This is a playing ground for seals, sea lions, orcas, humpback whales, minke whales.. the list could go on for quite a while, but you get the idea.

Can you imagine what an amazing backdrop this makes for active travel? Take in the beautiful coastal views while whales swim below you and bald eagles fly high above in the sky. What a way to get close to nature!

 

Hikers on the West Coast Trail
Photo: ©Parks Canada

Trails of legendary reputation
If you prefer to keep your feet dry (but definitely not your boots), our absolute favourite hike is the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island – A 75km trail that has garnered an international reputation as one of the world’s top hikes. While not an easy hike by any means (think carrying a full pack, muddy boots, climbing ladders, balancing on boulders and log bridges, and crossing streams), the West Coast Trail will have you walking along sandy beaches and ocean shelf, past intriguing caves and scenic waterfalls, and through lush rainforest filled with giant trees. Days are spent spotting wildlife such as whales, black bears, eagles, otters, sea lions, and possibly even the elusive wolf. Nights are spent on remote beaches, being lulled to sleep by the sound of crashing waves. Did the full pack part leave you spooked? Don’t worry – we carry most of the group gear and include a mid-hike food drop to lighten your load.


Chilkoot Trail


Travel back in time
All the way up north, extending across the borders of Alaska and Yukon,lies an old trail made famous by gold-hungry stampeders on their way to the Klondike Goldfields. Hundreds of men and women used the Chilkoot Trail in the late 1900’s but today, a strict permit system allows only a small number of trekkers on the historic trail. 

Evidence of the golden days remains in the form of abandoned trail-side gear, but the real attraction here is the stunning natural beauty of the remote and rugged region together with a long-standing spirit of adventure. Although the trip starts and ends in Yukon, a good portion of the hike is actually through northern British Columbia. Now you know!


Kettle Valley Wine Trail


Wine and sunshine
If you thought world famous mountains and a coastline full of adventures was enough for one province, you’d be mistaken... because there’s more. Let us introduce you the Okanagan Valley, wine country and the sunniest region in Canada. 

Complementary to the picture perfect rolling hills spotted with vineyards is the superb cycling on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. Pedal across the dramatic Myra Canyon Trestles, navigate a series of mountain-piercing tunnels, and top off your adventure with a glass of local wine and culinary delights. The Okanagan area knows how to enjoy life, that’s for sure.


Colourful alpine blooms near Flight Lake, BC
Colourful alpine blooms near Flight Lake, Wells Gray, BC

Mountains, if you must 

If, after reading through all that BC has to offer, you are still longing for the mountains, let us first clear something up: Contrary to popular belief, not all mountains in Canada’s west are part of the Rocky Mountains. There are actually a number of mountain chains from the Pacific coast through to the Alberta border. These include the Coast Mountains, the Cascade Mountains, the Columbia Mountains and yes, the Rocky Mountains. To get a taste of each, we highly recommend our Mountains of Western Canada on Foot small group hiking tour. Or, if you want to dive deeper into the alpine wilderness and focus on one outstanding mountain environment, strap on a backpack and enjoy our remote Hut to Hut in Wildflower Heaven in stunning Wells Gray Provincial Park.


 

 

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