This year has been wild. So much has happened in just a few months. Planes have crashed, fires destroyed parts of countries, a global pandemic now rules out lives, there was a massive explosion in Beirut, Trump might be president again. It’s a lot to take in. I think we all need a little bit of break. And what’s a better way of taking a break then going on vacation? Wait, you don’t want to take a plane. Well honey, I’ve got you covered with some beautiful road trips you can take in BC this Fall.
Our province is gorgeous, after all, it is beautiful British Columbia. The fall might even be one of the best times to check out what our home has to offer. The bright colors of the leaves on the tree’s as you drive down the road is a sight to behold. The reds, oranges and yellows contrasting against the cerulean sky, or sometimes the deep blue of the ocean, depending on where you’re headed. The crisp air is also perfect for a relaxing day at one of BC’s many hot springs, where you can forget just for a while about the many human imperfections of our world.
There are a few things you need to be aware of before you rip out onto the highway into the wilds of British Columbia. If you are taking your own vehicle, make sure you have winter tires on your car as most Highways in BC require them starting on October 1st. The farther north and the more mountain passes you go through will put you more at risk of icy sections or even snow at this time of year so be careful. You also will need to be respectful of the communities you are entering and their covid-19 restrictions. Make sure to bring enough masks for your trip for use in restaurants, grocery stores and hotels. Be safe and book accommodations ahead of time!
There are so many places to see in BC and each one is better than the next, so I’ve only picked a few that you can still go experience. I’ve not included Haida Gwaii because it is currently closed to visitors, but I recommend checking out the serene island when it opens as it is sparsely populated, and you can really feel closer to nature. Here are my recommended road trips. You can take them any time of year but the fall is the most beautiful.
Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island has a lot to offer. It can be pricey to take your vehicle on the ferry, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Start in Nanaimo and make your way up the coast stopping in little towns along the way. You’ll love the vast beach access the island has to offer. Stop at some museums along the way and learn a bit about the indigenous history of Canada. Look for whales as you drive along side the ocean. There are also many hikes you can take. One being the Elk Falls suspension bridge. Check out this link for more ideas.
https://vancouverisland.travel/road-trips/
Tofino
*Trip Duration: 1 week
Okanagan
The Okanagan valley has so much for everyone to do. Whether you are a foodie or an adventurer. If you are into adventurer, there are tons of great biking routes along old train trestles. Check out the leaves while you bike along. Wear warm clothes. The great thing about heading to wine country in the fall is that there are not as many people. No crowded streets or beaches. But what are somethings you can do you might ask? Sip your wine in peace! Red wines are being just released, and while you are at the winery why not stay around for some delicious fresh food. There are so many wineries to enjoy, it might take up a whole weekend. Here are some wineries to check out.
https://www.okanaganwines.ca/wineries
Myra Canyon
*Trip Duration: 3-4 days
Northwest British Columbia
Travel to Northwest BC and you will see the serenity of our province. The farther north you travel the more separate each town becomes. You could drive for hours and not hit a town. Make sure to fill up your gas tank. To see northwest BC, make your way to Prince George and take highway 16 all the way to Prince Rupert, the end of the line. Don’t expect too see bustling town centers, up north you’ll have more of chance to connect with nature by renting bikes, going on hikes, or taking a whale watching/grizzly bear tour. Each town down the highway has their own personalities so make sure you stop in places like Smithers or Vanderhoof to see what small town life is like. Be aware that there are small first nations communities in the area that are not allowing visitors because of the pandemic. Please respect their safety precautions.
https://www.hellobc.com/places-to-go/stewart-cassiar-highway-16/
Prince Rupert Harbor
*Trip duration: 1-2 weeks
BC Rockies Hot Spring route
In eastern BC are the Rocky Mountains and LOTS of hot springs. What is more relaxing then sitting in a warm pool of water surrounded by nature? Get back to your roots. Hellobc.com has a great road trip route you can take to hit a lot of hot springs. Take me there now. Be aware that some hot springs may not be open because of the pandemic, so check ahead of time. Radium is open for sure, but brig your own bathing suit and towel this year. Escape the cold this fall.
https://www.hellobc.com/road-trips/hot-springs-circle-route/
Halycon Hot spring
*Trip Duration: 1 week
Get Out There!
As with any trip, take your time to enjoy the sights along the way, connect with nature and let yourself forget about the world for a little while. It will still be waiting for you when you come home, so take your time. British Columbia is waiting for you.
*Based on leaving from the Greater Vancouver Area