Western Canada is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ranging from rugged coastlines to majestic mountains. Here are seven spectacular driving routes that showcase the best of what this region has to offer.
1. Fraser Canyon via Highway 1
Route Overview:
Travel along Highway 1 through the dramatic Fraser Canyon, a route that follows the path of the mighty Fraser River. This historic route is part of the Trans-Canada Highway and offers stunning vistas of the canyon’s steep cliffs and roaring rapids.
Highlights:
- Hell’s Gate Airtram: Experience the thrill of crossing the canyon via an aerial tramway.
- Historic Sites: Visit the Yale Historic Site to learn about the Gold Rush era.
- Scenic Stops: Numerous viewpoints offer photo opportunities of the canyon and river.
- The Alexandra Bridge: It represents 100 years of contemporary bridge engineering in the Canyon.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the views are clear.
2. Sea to Sky Highway via Highway 99
Route Overview:
Highway 99, known as the Sea to Sky Highway, runs from Vancouver to Whistler and beyond. This route hugs the coastline before ascending into the coastal mountains, offering a diverse array of landscapes.
Highlights:
- Howe Sound: Enjoy views of the picturesque fjord with its emerald waters and forested islands.
- Shannon Falls: Stop to marvel at one of British Columbia’s tallest waterfalls.
- Whistler: Explore this world-famous resort town, known for its outdoor activities and vibrant village life.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with summer providing the best weather for scenic drives and winter attracting snow sports enthusiasts.
3. Clearwater to Jasper in Rocky Mountains via Yellowhead Highway
Route Overview:
The Yellowhead Highway (Highway 5 & 16) takes you through a variety of terrains before reaching the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Highlights:
- Wells Gray Provincial Park: Discover waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife in this natural paradise.
- Mount Robson: Home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
- Jasper National Park: Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and outdoor activities in one of Canada’s premier national parks.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and accessibility to parks and outdoor activities.
4. Kamloops to Banff in Rocky Mountains via Highway 1
Route Overview:
Drive from Kamloops to Banff along Highway 1, the Trans-Canada Highway, through some of the most picturesque regions of British Columbia and Alberta.
Highlights:
- Kamloops: A vibrant city offering cultural experiences and outdoor recreation.
- Shuswap Lake: Known for its houseboating and fishing opportunities.
- Revelstoke: A charming mountain town known for its railway history and outdoor activities.
- Glacier National Park: Experience dramatic mountain scenery and pristine wilderness.
- Yoho National Park: Marvel at natural wonders like Emerald Lake and Takakkaw Falls.
- Banff National Park: Arrive in Banff, a renowned destination offering majestic landscapes, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, to take advantage of the pleasant weather and open park facilities.
5. Banff to Jasper in Rocky Mountains via the Icefields Parkway
Route Overview:
The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) is one of the most scenic drives in the world, connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks in Alberta. This route offers unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.
Highlights:
- Moraine Lake: Famous for its striking turquoise water and the Valley of the Ten Peaks backdrop.
- Lake Louise: Famous for its turquoise water and the impressive backdrop of Victoria Glacier.
- Peyto Lake: Enjoy the iconic view of this brilliantly blue glacier-fed lake.
- Athabasca Glacier: Take a guided tour onto the glacier.
- Sunwapta Falls: Witness the power of these stunning waterfalls.
- Athabasca Falls: A must-see, this waterfall is known for its force and the stunning canyon it has carved.
- Jasper National Park: Featuring stunning vistas, Maligne Lake, and the dramatic Maligne Canyon.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, when the road is fully accessible and the weather is conducive to enjoying the stunning vistas.
6. Great Bear Rainforest Circle Route
Route Overview:
The Great Bear Circle Route is a scenic driving route that spans over 1100 km in northern British Columbia. This route explores the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world. The route combines ferry travel with driving for a unique adventure. The route takes travelers through stunning landscapes and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and cultural experiences with local Indigenous communities.
Highlights:
- Bella Coola Valley: A remote and stunning valley with rich Indigenous culture and wildlife.
- Fjordland: Explore the deep fjords and lush forests teeming with wildlife.
- Klemtu: Visit this Indigenous community and experience their culture and traditions.
Best Time to Visit: Summer to early fall, when the weather is most favorable for travel and wildlife viewing.
7. Historic Gold Rush Trail
Route Overview:
The Gold Rush Trail begins at the mouth of the Fraser River in New Westminster and winds its way north to Barkerville Historic Town & Park, following the traditional Indigenous peoples’ trading routes utilized during the fur trade and expanded during the gold rushes of 1858-1862.
Follow the path of the 19th-century gold seekers on the Historic Gold Rush Trail. This route, which can be traveled by Highway 1 and other connecting roads, takes you from New Westminster to Barkerville.
Highlights:
- Fort Langley: Discover the birthplace of British Columbia and explore its historic fort.
- Lillooet: Known as “Mile 0” of the Cariboo Wagon Road, offering rich history and stunning views.
- Barkerville: Step back in time in this well-preserved Gold Rush town, complete with period actors and historic buildings.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to fall, when historic sites and attractions are fully operational.
