Best Provincial & National Parks to Visit in British Colombia
Are you planning to explore the natural attraction of British Columbia? If yes, don’t forget to visit these national and provincial Parks. Read Here!
Provincial & National Parks to Visit in British Colombia
British Columbia is a beautiful province known for its outdoor attractions. It offers natural beauty, boasting over 644 provincial parks. These protected lands allow British Columbia residents and visitors to connect with nature, escape the mundane urban life, and learn to love and respect the wonderful land. Here are the best provincial and national parks to visit in British Columbia. Read on!
1. Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park is one of Canada’s most spectacular national parks, with majestic mountain scenery. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to snow-capped peaks, beautiful lakes, distant glaciers, roaring rivers, and massive waterfalls.
Yoho National Park boasts the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, picturesque views of Wapta Falls, the scenic Kicking Horse River, turquoise-colors Emerald Lake, and the iconic stone bridge. There are many places to see and things to do in the Yoho National Park. Families and friends can get the most out of their trip by enjoying alpine lakes, wooded trails, and cliffs.
2. Pacific Rim National Park
The Pacific Rim is known for its ancient rainforests, rich marine life, and fierce winter storms. It is also the birthplace of storm watching. Tofino is a popular place to learn to surf and a gourmet destination for fresh seafood taken fresh off the boat.
Pack your winter gear and watch the choppy winter waves that crash against the rocky shore, or take a summer stroll along the endless sandy beaches. It is a perfect place for families, friends, and couples.
3. Glacier National Park
The park offers a wide range of seasonal outdoor activities, such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, boating, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. In winter, cross-country skiing is available. The park attracts mountaineers, rock climbers, and bicyclists at other times of the year.
In addition, the Montana Glaciers preserve one million acres of glacier-carved peaks and valleys, pristine turquoise lakes and rivers, and dense ancient forests for all to enjoy. Learn more about the ‘Crown of the Continent’ as you celebrate this iconic national park.
4. Mount Robson Provincial Park
Mount Robson Provincial Park, thunderous waterfalls, ancient forests, and wildflower meadows blend with steep climbs, and dramatic descents create mesmerizing experiences. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park offers camping and hiking opportunities.
Besides, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Canadian Rockies in 1990, Mount Robson offers everything from developed, car-accessible campgrounds to remote valleys that rarely see human footprints. Mount Robson Provincial Park also protects the Fraser River’s headwaters. It is a perfect place for families and friends.
5. Wells Gray Provincial Park
Visiting Wells Gray Provincial Park is an unforgettable day trip with stunning views, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in the territory of Ktunaxa, boasting picturesque and breathtaking views, making it a perfect place for families.
There are 41 waterfalls and other attractions. Wells Gray is also known as the land of waterfalls, as even more waterfalls are scattered throughout the area. Ancient volcanoes and slow-moving glaciers have carved the lakes and rivers that produce the park’s waterfalls.
6. Garibaldi Provincial Park
Garibaldi Provincial Park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers lush wildlife viewing opportunities, alpine meadows, alpine flowers in overgrown fields, and hiking opportunities ranging from a few hours to several days.
Garibaldi Lake is often considered the best campsite because of its stunningly beautiful, though extremely cold, lake for swimming. Still, Taylor Meadows is lovely, with lush meadows, plant species, and flowers surrounding the campsite.
7. Laclede Provincial Park
With seven miles of coastline, rocky peninsulas, small coves, and bays, Ruckle Park can be happily explored for hours or days. In addition, the mix of forests, fields, and coastal habitats makes it one of the complete wildlife viewing areas on Sal Spring Island.
The entire coast of Laclede Park is perfect for beachcombing walking on the large flat rocks and stones. A small cove north of the picnic area is ideal for swimming. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in this large park area.
Final Words
British Columbia is home to some of the world’s best national parks. At the same time, the provincial parks are second to none when it comes to natural beauty and breathtaking views. These national and provincial parks offer something to everyone, including outdoor adventure activities. Until Next Time!
- Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
- Photos from Unsplash & canva.