British Columbia is renowned for its spectacular landscapes, from the coastal mountains to the inland deserts. While places like Whistler, Vancouver, and Victoria attract millions of visitors each year, the province is home to countless hidden treasures that offer equally stunning experiences with far fewer crowds. Here are ten hidden gems in British Columbia that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary.
1. Yoho National Park
Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Banff National Park, Yoho is a paradise of towering waterfalls, dizzying peaks, and turquoise lakes. Highlights include the natural rock bridge of Natural Bridge, the thundering Takakkaw Falls (one of Canada's highest waterfalls), and the serene Emerald Lake.
The park's name comes from a Cree expression of awe and wonder, which is exactly what you'll feel as you explore this magnificent landscape. Take the time to hike to the Burgess Shale fossil beds, one of the most significant fossil discoveries in the world.
2. Galiano Island
While the Gulf Islands are no secret, Galiano Island remains one of the less visited. Just a ferry ride from Vancouver, this long, narrow island offers dramatic cliff views at Bluffs Park, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and a charming artistic community.
The island's laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for a weekend getaway. Don't miss the Bodega Ridge Trail for panoramic views of the Salish Sea and neighboring islands.
3. Sunshine Coast
Despite being part of the mainland, the Sunshine Coast is only accessible by ferry or plane, giving it an island-like feel. This 180km stretch of coastline lives up to its name with more sunshine hours than neighboring Vancouver.
Explore the arts communities of Gibsons and Sechelt, kayak in the sheltered waters of Desolation Sound, or hike portions of the 180km Sunshine Coast Trail. The coast offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
4. Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands)
Once known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, this remote archipelago off BC's north coast offers an unparalleled connection to nature and Indigenous culture. Haida Gwaii is home to ancient totem poles, pristine beaches, and some of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems in British Columbia.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of SGang Gwaay (Anthony Island) to see remarkably preserved totem poles and the remains of a traditional Haida village. The islands also offer world-class fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
5. Mount Edziza Provincial Park
This remote park in northern BC features a dramatic landscape shaped by volcanic activity. The centerpiece is Mount Edziza, a complex of fifty volcanic vents and cinder cones that create an otherworldly landscape of red, orange, and black volcanic soil.
The park is accessible only by floatplane or by hiking in, making it one of BC's true wilderness experiences. The multi-day Edziza Trek is challenging but rewards hikers with some of the most unique scenery in Canada.
6. Bella Coola Valley
Tucked away in the Coast Mountains, the Bella Coola Valley offers a stunning mix of coastal rainforest and alpine scenery. The descent into the valley along Highway 20 is an adventure in itself, with the road winding steeply down to the valley floor.
The valley is a hub for grizzly bear viewing, heli-skiing, and exploring Nuxalk Nation culture. Don't miss Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, with its Rainbow Range – a collection of mountains in vivid red, orange, yellow, and lavender hues due to volcanic minerals.
7. Liard River Hot Springs
Located along the Alaska Highway in northern BC, these natural hot springs are the second-largest in Canada and remain open year-round. The hot springs are set within a lush boreal spruce forest that creates a unique microclimate supporting plants normally found much further south.
After a long drive on the Alaska Highway, there's nothing more relaxing than soaking in these therapeutic waters while watching for local wildlife like moose that often visit the area.
8. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
The southern portion of Haida Gwaii is protected as Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, a remote wilderness accessible only by boat or floatplane. This collaborative management area between Parks Canada and the Haida Nation protects a remarkable ecosystem from sea floor to mountaintop.
Hot springs, ancient Haida village sites, and the SGang Gwaay UNESCO World Heritage Site make this park a cultural and natural treasure. The waters surrounding the islands are also protected as a marine conservation area, creating a haven for marine life.
9. Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary
North of Prince Rupert lies Canada's first protected area created specifically for grizzly bears. This remote, pristine valley is home to approximately 50 grizzlies that can be observed feeding along the shores during spring and summer.
Access is strictly controlled, and visitors must be accompanied by licensed guides who approach by boat. This creates a sustainable viewing experience that prioritizes the bears' well-being while offering unforgettable close encounters with these magnificent animals.
10. Cathedral Provincial Park
Located in the Okanagan region, Cathedral Provincial Park offers alpine hiking without the crowds of more popular mountain parks. The park's core area sits on a plateau of sub-alpine meadows dotted with small lakes and surrounded by jagged peaks.
Hikers can tackle the Rim Trail for panoramic views or explore the park's many lakes. The unique geological features include massive rock walls that give the park its cathedral-like appearance. Access is either by shuttle bus or a challenging uphill hike.
Planning Your Visit
These hidden gems are less visited for a reason – many require additional effort or planning to reach. But that's precisely what keeps them special. Here are some tips for exploring BC's lesser-known attractions:
- Many of these destinations are remote, so plan your transportation carefully and allow extra time.
- Some areas have limited accommodation options that book up quickly in summer – reserve well in advance.
- Check seasonal accessibility, as some regions are inaccessible or difficult to reach in winter.
- Pack appropriately for wilderness areas with limited services.
- Consider hiring local guides, especially for wildlife viewing or culturally significant areas.
British Columbia's hidden gems offer the perfect antidote to overtourism. By venturing beyond the well-trodden path, you'll not only discover breathtaking landscapes and authentic experiences but also contribute to sustainable tourism that benefits local communities throughout the province.
