From coastal rainforest to desert-like canyons, winding rail trails to alpine giants, British Columbia, Canada is a land shaped by dramatic contrasts. Explore BC from Sea to Sky through dramatic and ever-changing landscapes on one of 12 Rainforest to Rockies journeys. Accessible in one direct flight to Vancouver, discover your perfect route here.
Spanning from the shores of the Pacific Ocean in Vancouver to the snow-capped summits of the Canadian Rockies, Rainforest to Rockies is not one path to British Columbia’s awe-inspiring attractions but many.
Some journeys shift your perspective. Others shift something deeper. Travelling from Rainforest to Rockies does both. It’s an eclectic mosaic of landscapes, cultures, and experiences across the province.
No matter the route, as you round each bend, the terrain reshapes itself, and the landscapes transform before your eyes. Expect misty coastal forests and sun-soaked desert hills, glacier-fed lakes and rugged mountain passes.
There are 12 Rainforest to Rockies itineraries to suit every kind of traveller. The only thing for you to do? Set your path.
Here are our favourites:
Rainforest to Rockies: North to Mount Robson
Allow seven to 10 days for this breathtaking journey from Vancouver to the Rockies’ highest peak, Mount Robson.
As you drive the iconic Sea-to-Sky route, awe will be your primary emotion as you discover the spectacular UNESCO fjords in the Howe Sound Biosphere Region, go adventuring in Squamish – Canada’s Outdoor Recreation Capital – and follow the invitation to stop at sun-dappled vineyards and historic communities along the way.
Touring highlights on this North to Mount Robson route include Whistler, famous for being the place to hike, bike, zipline and more in any season.
There are also the desert-like landscapes at Kamloops Lake and the outstanding natural beauty and undeniable peace of Mount Robson. See it on foot, on the water, and from the air for the ultimate way to connect to this spectacular corner of the Canadian Rockies.
Find out more here.
Rainforest to Rockies: Coast Mountain Circle Route
This popular circular route brings together the magic of British Columbia’s coastal rainforest, alpine peaks, and island-fringed inlets across a recommended 4- to 6-day trip.
If you love variety when you travel, this is the route for you: ocean breezes in the morning, forest hikes by afternoon, and stargazing from a mountain lodge by night.
From Vancouver, self-drive the Coast Mountain Circle Route along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Make time to spot bald eagles in Squamish and go bear-watching in Whistler amid the abundant outdoor activities both destinations have on offer.
Appreciate the magnitude of Fraser Canyon on the Hell’s Gate Airtram or join an exhilarating white-water rafting tour. Recover from all your adventures at the last stop for a soak at Harrison Hot Springs!
Find out more here.
Rainforest to Rockies: Trans Canada Trail & Kettle Valley Rail Trail
History leads the way on the Trans Canada Trail and Kettle Valley Rail Trail, with every curve of the trail telling a story.
Once railway routes, now converted into bike- and foot-friendly trails, travel through historic tunnels, over trestle bridges, and into the heart of BC’s interior.
The reclaimed Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail is a section of the 28,000km cross-country Trans Canada Trail. Experience it in many ways, including your chance to saddle up for the multi-day cycling route from Hope to Midway via Kelowna and Myra Canyon.
From Vancouver, pass through Fraser Valley to Princeton to start the KVR. Along your route to Penticton, Kelowna, and Naramata, enjoy the leisurely unfolding of attractions, such as picturesque lakes, charming communities, and verdant vineyards. The Naramata Bench has some of the best wine in the province!
At Myra Canyon, pass two tunnels and 18 historic trestle bridges to soak in the dramatic canyon views that make this the trail’s best-known section. Your final stretch – Midway to Fernie, the end of the Trans Canada Trail in BC.
Find out more here.
Rainforest to Rockies, your way
While there are 12 different ways to set your own pace and choose your own adventure – by road, rail or trail – from Rainforest to Rockies, one thing’s for sure: British Columbia will ignite your curiosity, blow your mind, and reward all your efforts.
Whether you’re seeking the full Rainforest to Rockies experience along the Signature Circle Route, want to raise a glass along the Valleys and Vineyards itinerary, or desire to discover the majestic landscapes without effort aboard the Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tour, there’s an idyllic journey from coast to peaks waiting for you.
Discover your best path (and all 12 itineraries) when you head to hellobc.com/rainforest-to-rockies.
This article is brought to you by Destination British Columbia.
