Vancouver is more than just a west coast seaport; it’s one of Canada’s coastal gems that captivates outdoor adventurers with its unparalleled natural wonderlands. There are plenty of destinations worth checking out on your first visit. 

Ancient forests, snow-covered mountains, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails are just a few examples of Vancouver’s attractions. If you want to get the most out of your first adventure, continue reading this guide. We’ll discuss road trips from Vancouver so you can enjoy another paradisiacal outdoor trip.

Trips From Vancouver Worth Checking Out

With so many destinations near Vancouver to choose from, it is difficult to narrow them down. Regardless, here is a list of the best road trips from Vancouver worth checking out.

Bowen Island

Have you ever wanted to spend a few days surrounded by a thick forest with multiple outdoor activities at your disposal? If so, take a trip to Bowen Island. This region is filled with hiking trails, beaches, lakes, and mountains. For a simple outdoor activity, we recommend hiking the Dorman Point Trail, where you’ll get a scenic view of Howe Sound.  

Best of all, getting to Bowen Island is simple. You can take the BC ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Snug Cove. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before a scheduled departure. Alternatively, you can take your car on the ferry, though reservations are recommended. 

Whistler

Located just two hours north of Vancouver, the town of Whistler is heaven for winter enthusiasts. The region is surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, towering mountains, glacier-fed lakes, waterfalls, and old-growth forests. Go on a snowy adventure by skiing down the Blackcomb Mountains. Alternatively, you can go on a sightseeing tour and discover the cultural and artistic side of Central Whistler Village.

If you’re aiming for a summer visit, check out the cross-country trails suitable for mountain biking. Make sure to stick to the ones you are capable of riding.

Squamish

There is a reason why Squamish is considered the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada.” Located on the northern tip of Howe Sound, Squamish is a world-class destination for mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, and kite surfing. For a sightseeing adventure, feast your eyes on the 1,105-foot-high Shannon Falls.  

There are also plenty of trails you can explore. Examples include the Tantalus View Trail

and the Mamquam Rivers Trail. Both paths take no more than two hours to complete.

Sea-to-Sky Highway

Sometimes, all you need is a sightseeing drive through some of the most captivating outdoor destinations in North America. The 234-mile-long Sea-to-Sky Highway is a journey worth taking. The route runs from West Vancouver to Whistler and passes many points of interest. Along the way, you can explore the Britannia Mine Museum, the Coast Mountains, the Lions Bay, and Garibaldi Provincial Park.

The best time for a drive is between June and September when the road is free of snow and the trails are accessible. Winter tires are required if you’re on the road between October and March.

The Kootenays

Located in the southeast corner of British Columbia, the Kootenays is a vibrant region whose beauty is displayed by four mountain ranges: the Rockies, Purcell, Selkirk, and the Monashee ranges. There are also several lakes, snow-covered peaks, and waterfalls.

For something simple, we recommend the naturally spring-fed hot springs. You can find some of them near Kootenay National Park and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of the best short road trips from Vancouver. As one of the largest provincial parks in British Columbia, Golden Ears is a popular destination for aquatic activities. Take a trip to Alouette Lake and spend the day kayaking, boating, or canoeing. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to arrive before 11 am since finding a parking spot can be difficult.

Alternatively, you can hike the 3.4-mile (round-trip) Gold Creek Falls Trail and see the runoff from the surrounding mountains. Visit during the spring so you can see a complete runoff worthy of a picture!

Parksville Qualicum Beach

No guide on road trips from Vancouver would be complete without including Parksville Qualicum Beach –– a coastline getaway destination. Here is a snippet of what awaits you: multiple hiking trails, white sand beaches, underground caves, and lakes. 

You can try your hand at kayaking, boating, or paddleboarding. If you don’t mind large crowds, check out a summer festival at Parkville Beach. If you desire a forested adventure, the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is nearby. You can hike through a forest and see two scenic waterfalls that descend into a deep canyon.  

Experience Vancouver Destinations With Cruise America

As you can see, there are plenty of options for road trips from Vancouver. Cruise America can get you started on your journey.

Experience the comforts of an RV lifestyle with an RV rental vehicle that comes with home-style amenities. Visit your nearest rental location to get started!