Canada’s Most Scenic Drives: The Best Road Trips in British Columbia (B.C.)

From misty coastal highways to winding mountain passes, British Columbia (B.C.) offers a truly inspiring backdrop for every drive, turning even the shortest trip into a memorable experience.

Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, enjoying wine tastings, or simply seeking fresh air and a sense of freedom, B.C.’s scenic roads invite you to embrace adventure. So, why not roll down the windows and start your road trip playlist?

In this blog, we’ve highlighted five of the best drives in the province, along with some helpful tips to make your journey even more enjoyable. Please note: If you plan to visit any breweries or wineries along your journey, always ensure a designated driver is in place. Never drink and drive. Your safety and the safety of others on the road come first.

Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99)

Vancouver ➝ Whistler ➝ Pemberton

• Distance: About 120 km
• Drive Time: 2–3 hours
• Best Season to drive: Spring to early fall

A favorite among B.C. locals! This scenic drive offers coastal and mountain views with many stopping points for scenery and food. It leads to a charming ski village. Spring to early fall usually have the best driving conditions, as winter can bring hazardous weather causing accidents and slow traffic.

Scenic stops to pinpoint include Porteau Cove Lookout, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, Sea to Sky Gondola Summit and Nairn Falls (near Pemberton).

Must-Stop Spots:

• Squamish: Brewery: Backcountry Brewing has great beer, delicious pizza, and mountain views.
• Whistler: Coffee: Purebread, you absolutely must try their delicious pastries and soak in their wonderfully cozy atmosphere, right in the heart of Whistler Village.
• Pemberton: Coffee: Blackbird Bakery, this women-run bakery has been lovingly baking from scratch for 14 years. Enjoy delicious French pastries and organic, locally roasted coffee, all served with a smile by their always happy staff.

Pacific Marine Circle Route

Victoria ➝ Sooke ➝ Port Renfrew ➝ Lake Cowichan ➝ Duncan ➝ Victoria

• Distance: Around 290 km loop
• Drive Time: 6–8 hours (or stretch it into a few days)
• Best Season to drive: Late spring through early fall

Would you like a road trip with island vibes? Take this beautiful escape with windswept beaches and some unexpectedly great local sips.

Scenic highlights include East Sooke Regional Park, Botanical Beach (Port Renfrew), Cowichan River Provincial Park, and Malahat Lookout (on the way back from Victoria).

Must-Stop Spots:

• Sooke: Brewery: Sooke Brewing Company, a small batch, big character brewery. They aim to create beers with distinct and memorable flavours.
• Port Renfrew: Coffee: Enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere at The Renfrew Pub in Port Renfrew, B.C.. Delicious food and a cozy environment. If you have a four-legged friend, they are now welcome on a section of our front patio.
• Lake Cowichan: Restaurant: Jakes at the Lake, a casual dining restaurant that looks over the beautiful Cowichan Lake and Cowichan River, located right in the heart of the town of Lake Cowichan.
• Duncan: Coffee: The Garage Café and Bakery, a hidden gem. Located in a charming historic building, they are passionate about serving up delicious fare, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free ingredient options.

The Kootenay Rockies Circle Route

Cranbrook ➝ Nelson ➝ Revelstoke ➝ Golden ➝ Cranbrook

• Distance: About 880 km
• Drive Time: 4–5 days recommended.
• Best Season to drive: Summer to early fall.

Discover the adorable charm of the Kootenays! If you're dreaming of big mountains, expansive lakes, and cozy small towns that excel in food and drink, then this road trip is just perfect for you!

Discover some truly breathtaking sights, like the beautiful Kootenay Lake Ferry Ride, the charming Pilot Bay Lighthouse near Crawford Bay, and the stunning Golden Skybridge. Each of these highlights offers a unique and memorable experience that you'll cherish.

Must-Stop Spots:

• Nelson: Coffee: Oso Negro Café, enjoy a cozy café with seasonal foods and fourteen coffee blends. Guests can relax indoors, surrounded by art, or outside in the garden, engaging with friendly staff and a diverse community.
• Revelstoke: Brewery: Mt. Begbie Brewing Co., enjoy breathtaking mountain views at this beloved Revelstoke brewery, where you can indulge in a wonderful experience surrounded by natural beauty.
• Golden: Coffee: Bluebird Café, located near Kicking Horse Resort, Golden Golf Course, Gorman Lake Snowmobile Trails, and Moonraker Mountain Bike Trails, this spot offers snacks, treats, and meals for your adventure.

Is Your Ride Adventure-Ready?

No one enjoys beginning a road trip with a check engine light glowing. Whether you’re exploring gravel roads, scenic mountain passes, or charming winery driveways, it's always a good idea to ensure your vehicle is ready for the adventure ahead.

If you're feeling satisfied with your current ride but want to ensure everything's in top shape, consider booking a pre-trip service with Go Auto today. If you're thinking it might be time to find a new vehicle before hitting the open road, we’re excited to offer a wonderful selection of vehicles, including:

• SUVs that boast spacious views and plenty of room for gear,
• Trucks ready to handle winding mountain roads,
• Eco-friendly EVs perfect for scenic and low-impact road trips, and
• Our welcoming service centres to make sure you’re all set before you hit the road.

Ready to explore? Start with the right vehicle. Your B.C. road trip is waiting.