2024's 11 Most Scenic British Columbia Towns
British Columbia is Canada's third-largest province by area and arguably packs the greatest diversity of landscapes within its borders. From the deserts of Okanagan to the lush coastal rainforest and the Canadian Rocky Mountains, breathtaking scenery can easily be found in all corners of this western province.
These are 11 of the most beautiful towns that can be found in B.C. Whether you are simply looking for a day trip out of Vancouver or to go on an extended road trip throughout, hopefully, a couple or more of these destinations will become a stop on your next outing in 2024.
Tofino
Tofino, located on the western edge of Vancouver Island, is a destination celebrated for its rugged and wild natural beauty right on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by ancient rainforests and bordered by the coastline of Clayoquot Sound, this town has become a sought-after hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all kinds.
Nearby Long Beach, part of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, offers expansive sandy shores perfect for surfing, beachcombing, or simply basking in the sun.
Beyond its natural attractions, Tofino is known for its unique and diverse local culture. Tofino also holds significant Indigenous heritage, with the Nuu-chah-nulth people maintaining a strong presence in the area. Visitors can learn about their traditions through cultural tours and local art. Storm-watching during the winter months and whale-watching excursions year-round add to Tofino’s appeal as a dynamic destination.
As with many oceanside towns, many eateries here incorporate fresh, locally sourced seafood. Shelter Restaurant is a hugely popular restaurant specializing in serving up locally caught shellfish and other dishes from ingredients gathered nearby.
Nelson
Nestled in the Selkirk Mountains along the shores of Kootenay Lake's western arm, Nelson is a town that comes with a plethora of wonderful scenery and outdoor activities all year long. Often referred to as the "Queen City," Nelson is renowned for its well-preserved architecture from its booming early days as a logging and mining town.
The vibrant downtown core is now a major tourist attraction and is dotted with independent shops, art galleries, museums, breweries, and tasty restaurants. Nelson also has a thriving arts scene, with live music, theater performances, and events like the Nelson International Mural Festival being commonplace. The Nelson Farmer Market, held weekly throughout the summer and early fall, is considered to be one of the best of its kind in the region, too.
The surrounding landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, just a short drive away, features trails, alpine lakes, and dramatic vistas. For those looking to spend time on the water, Kootenay Lake provides ample options for boating, fishing, swimming, or simply its sand beaches.
In the winter, Nelson turns into a renowned ski town, with Whitewater Ski Resort (among a few others) located an easy drive from downtown, too.
Whistler
Set against the backdrop of British Columbia's lofty Coastal Mountains, Whistler is internationally recognized as among the best ski towns in the world. Though best known for Whistler Blackcomb, one of the largest ski resorts in North America, this town offers year-round fun outdoors.
In the warmer months, you can hike or bike through the region's lush alpine trails, enjoy the panoramic views from the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, or paddle on cold, blue lakes like Alta and Lost Lake.
Whistler Village and its pedestrian-friendly streets feature a number of amenities, including world-class dining, high-end shopping, and lively events. The Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre provide further insight into the area’s artistic and Indigenous heritage, making Whistler as culturally rich as it is scenic.
Just outside the town, the Sea-to-Sky Corridor features stunning natural landmarks along the way, such as Brandywine Falls and the towering granite face of the Stawamus Chief.
Revelstoke
Tucked between the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, Revelstoke is an eastern British Columbian town that, like many towns on this list, is defined by its natural surroundings and adventurous spirit. Its location along the Columbia River makes it a prime base for exploring British Columbia’s rugged interior, and the Revelstoke Mountain Resort offers exceptional skiing in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer as well. The resort is home to the longest vertical descent in North America, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world.
Nearby, Mount Revelstoke National Park contains some highly diverse landscapes for this part of the province, from temperate rainforests to flower-filled alpine meadows, accessible via the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. The park’s Giant Cedars Boardwalk also allows you to walk among the towering ancient trees.
Revelstoke’s downtown should not be looked over either. Its many restored buildings house attractions like the the Revelstoke Railway Museum, which pays homage to the town’s roots as an important western railway stop. Seasonal events like the Luna Art Festival, held in late summer, are worth a visit too.
Fernie
Set in the Elk Valley of southeastern British Columbia, Fernie is a destination in the Canadian Rockies. Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding at the likes of Fernie Alpine Resort, the town also shines in summer with its extensive network of nearby trails for hiking and mountain biking. The Elk River, which winds through the area, also provides many opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and even white-water rafting, with professional rafting companies that can be booked in town.
Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the nearby Island Lake Lodge, where hiking trails lead through the area's ancient cedar forests to some eye-opening alpine vistas.
In winter, the powder-filled backcountry attracts skiers and snowshoers to the trails, while the town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a cozy retreat. There are a number of hotels open year-round, both in town and at the local ski resorts.
Fernie’s historic downtown stands out with its iconic century-old brick buildings. Notable tourist stops here include The Fernie Museum, which features detailed insight into the town’s coal-mining history.
Golden
Seated at the confluence of the Columbia and Kicking Horse Rivers, Golden is a town within reach of six national parks, including Banff, Yoho, and Glacier!
Golden’s proximity to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort draws skiers and snowboarders during winter, while summer visitors flock to its downhill biking trails and the renowned Golden Eagle Express Gondola for 360-degree views of the Rockies and Selkirk Mountains. You should also try a walk at the Golden Skybridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge, for an unmatched perspective of the dramatic terrain.
The town’s center balances small-town charm with modern amenities, with several hotels, restaurants, shops, and outfitters to be found. Learn about Golden’s railway history at Spirit Square. The nearby Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre is another fun draw and gives you an up close and educational look at the region’s wildlife conservation efforts.
Ucluelet
Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Ucluelet is a tranquil oceanside town with a laidback vibe. It serves as another gateway to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, where visitors can explore the famed Wild Pacific Trail. This trail offers amazing ocean views over steep cliffs and access to the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, a historic landmark that exemplifies the area’s maritime heritage.
The town's connection to the ocean can be enjoyed at spots like the Ucluelet Aquarium, which focuses on local marine ecosystems and features a number of catch-and-release displays. Whale-watching tours, kayaking, and fishing charters further highlight the abundant wildlife in nearby Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands.
Local Indigenous culture is also a prominent feature, with totem poles and carvings showing off the heritage of the Nuu-chah-nulth people with their intricate designs.
Kaslo
Set on the western shores of Kootenay Lake and surrounded by the Purcell Mountains, Kaslo is a picturesque village that is often a less busy destination to visit in the southeastern portion of British Columbia. Known as the "Switzerland of Canada," this small town is the place to go for easy access to outdoor adventures, including hiking, boating, camping, and skiing.
A visit to the nearby Kaslo River Trail or a short drive to Ainsworth Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in naturally heated waters are also popular ideas for kicking back in Kaslo.
Kaslo’s historic downtown is characterized by heritage buildings dating back to the late 19th century, showing off its former wealth as a mining and logging hub. The SS Moyie, a fully restored sternwheeler turned museum, is a centerpiece of the town and teaches you about one of Kaslo's formerly main modes of transportation. Furthermore, the Kaslo Jazz Festival, held annually on a floating stage, draws music lovers to the town each summer.
Squamish
Located along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Squamish sits at the northern tip of Howe Sound, where lush forests, snowcapped mountains, and coastal waters abound.
Known by some as the "Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada," Squamish offers activities for adventurers of all types. For example, the iconic Stawamus Chief, a massive granite monolith, is a popular hiking and climbing destination, providing sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Shannon Falls, one of British Columbia’s highest waterfalls, is another must-visit natural landmark perfect for a photoshoot just minutes from town.
In summer, kiteboarding and paddleboarding are popular on the Squamish Spit, where the winds and tides meet. Winter offers access to backcountry skiing and snowshoeing in the surrounding ranges. Squamish’s unbeaten natural scenery and year-round activities clearly make it a top destination for exploring the best of Canada's coastal wilderness.
Squamish’s bustling downtown is notable for its craft breweries, like Howe Sound Inn & Brewing, outdoor gear shops, and other amenities catering to locals and visitors alike.
Lillooet
Known as the "Gateway to the Cariboo," this small town along the Fraser River was a key stop along the Canadian Gold Rush Trail in the 1800s. Here, you can delve into this past by checking out the Lillooet Museum and Miyazaki House, a historic landmark that is a must-visit in Lillooet.
The town’s central British Columbia setting also offers a remarkable amount of outdoor experiences. For one, the Bridge of the Twenty-Three Camels, a nod to Lillooet's quirky gold rush history, spans the Fraser River and serves as a striking entry point to the area. Hiking trails like the Seton Lake Lookout Trail will reward trekkers with spectacular views of the turquoise waters of Seton Lake. The nearby Duffey Lake Road is one of British Columbia’s most scenic drives, giving you an easier way to see the region's alpine country and glacial lakes.
Lillooet also boasts an emerging wine scene, with local vineyards producing unique blends that thrive in the region’s semi-arid climate and fertile soils. Fort Berens Estate Winery Ltd is one of many excellent stops if you're interested in a glass.
Penticton
Situated in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Penticton is a scenic town renowned for amazing Mediterranean-like weather, stunning lakeside setting, and fantastic produce of all kinds.
Positioned between Okanagan and Skaha Lakes, this town is a famous destination for boating and fishing and hiking and cycling on the lengthy lakeshore paths. The warm, dry climate is also ideal for enjoying the local sand beaches.
Penticton is also a well-known location for wine lovers, with dozens of nearby vineyards and wineries producing award-winning wines under the strong sun of the Okanagan Valley. The town is part of the Okanagan's renowned wine region, and wine tours are a popular way to explore the area’s stunning vistas while sampling local varieties. Several tasting rooms are located in Downtown Penticton, and you can visit one of the vineyards on the outskirts of town. A short drive north is Dirty Laundry Vineyard, a highly recommended winery with amazing views of the nearby lake.
Annual events such as the Penticton Peach Festival celebrate the town’s deep agricultural roots, particularly its famous peaches that grow so well in this idyllic region of the country.
From the Rockies to the Pacific Coast, these are just some of the many small towns that make the province of British Columbia one of Canada's top travel destinations in 2024. Whether you are looking to hit the slopes, walk a scenic trail, explore an interesting museum, or hit up a world-class winery, there is something for every kind of traveler here.
Do any of these spots strike your urge to adventure as the year comes to a close?
