10 Of The Most Captivating Small Towns In British Columbia
Between breathtaking mountain ranges, gorgeous glacier lakes, and jaw-dropping coastal views, there is a reason why they call it "Beautiful British Columbia." Prepare to experience all kinds of magic province-wide as you explore these charming destinations beyond metropolitan Vancouver or stunning Victoria. Ride an aerial tramway in Squamish to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Howe Sound, visit a mountain resort in Golden to participate in winter sports, and capture wild grizzly bears in your cameras at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. With its diverse landscapes and cultural marvels, Canada's westernmost province is the perfect place to take on fascinating new adventures.
Squamish
An hour north of Vancouver lies Squamish, an adventure-filled town renowned for its natural beauty and Indigenous culture. The drive along the Sea to Sky Highway is absolutely stunning; picture bright ocean views with magnificent mountainous backdrops. Porteau Cove Road Lookout is a lovely spot to stop and capture photos en route. In Squamish, take the Sea to Sky Gondola up to the summit. You will see extraordinary views of Howe Sound, the coastal forest, and the surrounding mountains. Stawamus Chief Park is another picturesque place for a hike, where several trails, peaceful picnic areas, and amazing campsites await. Not to mention, Garibaldi Provincial Park, one of the most scenic places in “The Pacific Province” known for its turquoise glacier-fed lake and snow-capped mountain vistas, spans from Pemberton to Squamish.
Tofino
Discover Tofino, a gorgeous surf town on Vancouver Island’s west coast. With its open location to the vast Pacific Ocean, you will see beautiful beaches like never before in one of the most captivating small towns in British Columbia. Watch the sun set or rise on Tonquin or Chesterman Beach, and see what wildlife you can spot in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The breathtaking Long Beach Unit stretches from Tofino to Ucluelet; this is the perfect place to admire the natural rugged beauty of Vancouver Island. Go island hopping by kayak or water taxi in Clayoquot Sound, and explore the small sea caves and alcoves as you hike through the Tonquin Trail.
Whistler
From the spectacular slopes of Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort to the magnificent 70-metre waterfall in Brandywine Falls Park, and the exquisite exhibits ranging from the 1800s to the present day in Audain Art Museum, you will find activities all year round in Whistler. This world-famous ski destination also has a charming pedestrian-only village filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. Spend some time exploring the center, before you experience the true meaning of relaxation in Scandinave Spa Whistler. Unwind in an outdoor thermal spa surrounded by mountain and rainforest views, paired with a relaxing massage catered to your needs.
Osoyoos
In the South Okanagan Valley (one of the province’s top wine-producing regions) lies Osoyoos. Home to plenty of natural wonders, this is one of the most captivating small towns in British Columbia. Study rare ecosystems at the Osoyoos Desert Centre in Canada’s only desert. Admire the unique, naturally formed spots that shift in color and size due to evaporation in the summer at the otherworldly Spotted Lake. This fascinating site is protected as a sacred healing place for the Syilx people. Top off your trip with a wine-tasting journey trying incredible varieties in Night Bird Estate, Nk’Mip Cellars, and other picturesque local wineries.
Nelson
Make your way to the Selkirk Mountains to spend some time in Nelson, where natural beauty meets cultural wonders. “The Queen City” features more than 350 restored heritage buildings to explore. Find award-winning exhibitions and see what special events are available in the Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery. Bask in the beauty of the waterfall in Cottonwood Falls Park, and capture remarkable photos from the top of Pulpit Rock, following a 1.8-kilometer hike to the bluff. If you are feeling brave, push past your comfort zone on the Kokanee Mountain Zipline. Glide above the canyon in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, seeing unbeatable views of the mountain and forest.
Revelstoke
Situated along the Columbia River, Revelstoke is a stunning mountain town in the Kootenay Rockies. Discover endless opportunities for adventures in Revelstoke Mountain Resort, where you can try various types of skiing or go snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing in the winter or paragliding, mountain biking, hiking, disc golfing, coaster riding, and rope-course climbing in the summer. Step into a world of magic in The Enchanted Forest, a family-friendly destination where a dragon’s nest, castle, and 350 fairytale figurines await. See the fascinating salmon run in the fall, or venture through the lush forest with the Wildland Interpretive Nature Walk. Revelstoke Railway Museum is another extraordinary spot that can not be missed; study the heritage of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the country’s Western mountain region.
Pemberton
There is no doubt the aforementioned drive from Vancouver to Squamish is incredibly scenic. But if you drive further up north along the Sea to Sky highway, passing by Squamish and Whistler, you will reach Pemberton. Between Adventures On Horseback’s eye-catching trails, taking you through beautiful meadows, forests, and riverside, and the gorgeous mountain vistas of Sunstone Golf Club, this village is truly an outdoor paradise. See what you can catch with Pemberton Fish Finder’s guided fishing tours, and spend time by the water at One Mile Lake. You will quickly see why Pemberton is one of the most captivating small towns in British Columbia.
Golden
While the lakes may be sparkling blue, this destination is truly Golden. Soak up the small-town vibe in a hidden gem surrounded by six stunning national parks, including Alberta's Jasper and Banff. Uncover jaw-dropping views of the Rocky and Purcell Mountain Ranges from Golden Skybridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge stretching 426 feet above the canyon. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a remarkable spot for skiing, tubing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing in the winter, and golfing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, climbing, trail running, or paragliding in the summer. Stretching 46 meters across the river, the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge is another iconic attraction. This is the longest freestanding timber frame bridge in the country!
Fernie
In the heart of the Canadian Rockies, you will find Fernie, a quaint mountain town founded in 1898. Unravel its history in the Fernie Museum; learn about events that have transformed this city over the years through the This Is Our Fernie exhibit. Go on a scenic hike leading to the breathtaking waterfall via the Fairy Creek Falls Trailhead, which can be accessed all year round. Mount Fernie Provincial Park is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and fishing in the nearby Elk River, and Fernie Brewing Company serves refreshing brews with snacks seven days a week.
Prince Rupert
Head into the heart of BC's Northwest Coast to explore Prince Rupert. This picturesque port city is a wonderful place for fishing, wildlife viewing, venturing into the wild, and studying local culture. Uncover how Prince Rupert was founded as a terminus for the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway in the Kwinitsa Railway Museum. See grizzly bears in their natural habitat from a safe distance at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary, and test your luck at spotting several species of whales in Chatham Sound. Wander through Sunken Gardens, admiring the lush florals (seasonal), and sip on award-winning beers in Wheelhouse Brewing Company.
Takeaways
Between the rugged beaches of Tofino, the desert wonders of Osoyoos, and the record-breaking bridges of Golden, prepare to be blown away by the beauty of The Pacific Province. Whether you are planning a trip or looking to make a move, all of these destinations offer their own magic and charm. You will discover something special in each place, as you explore the most captivating small towns in British Columbia.
