Top things to do in B.C. when it’s dark and rainy outside
The colder months can sometimes be overlooked as a good time to take a trip, but for those not restricted to peak-season travel, a winter escape gives you the opportunity to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience.
Whether you’re looking to take in some new sights, learn about the history and culture of a place, or reconnect with nature, there is no shortage of hidden gems and unexpected getaway destinations—many of which are easily accessible by car.
You can still experience some of the very best that B.C. has to offer even when it’s rainy and gloomy outside. In fact, there are plenty of activities which are even better at this time of year.
FIND ARTS, CULTURE, AND HISTORIC TREASURE
Visit the historic town of Barkerville. The area might be most famous for the Gold Rush Trail, but in the winter months, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is the perfect place to indulge in some arts and culture, including Quesnel Art Gallery, Quesnel ARTrium, and Central Cariboo Arts Centre.
Starting December 14, it’s a winter wonderland at the Shamrock Tube Run, which offers conveyer access to 400 feet of snow sliding. Enjoy a bonfire afterward or warm up in the Barkerville Café. There’s also skating, snowshoeing, and sledding here, while Barkerville makes an incredible jumping-off point for backcountry adventures.
And be sure to check out the neighbouring town of Wells, which is a renowned artists’ hub and historical town.
SOAK AWAY YOUR WINTER WOES
Kootenay Rockies - Hot Springs Circle Route
Hot Springs Circle Route: Many of B.C.’s hot springs are open year-round. Take your pick of Fairmont, Radium, Halcyon, or, Ainsworth. Or visit them all!
SEE THE STARS
Winter is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights, and B.C. has some beautiful viewing locations: Muncho Lake Provincial Park, Dawson Creek, Liard River Hot Springs, and Smithers.
INDULGE IN A WINTER WINERY ADVENTURE
Road trip - take Route 97 to the region, and bask in the beauty of the changing season.
With eight Lake Country wineries to visit, the Scenic Sip Trail is quieter during the winter months. Sample wines while taking in views of snow-dusted vineyards.
GET THE BIRD’S EYE VIEW
Danny Chan The Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival - Now in its 24th year, the festival takes place November 16 and 17 at several sites from Mission to Harrison Mills. Take a jet-boat tour with Fraser River Safari to get up close to the magnificent birds without disturbing them. Or visit the five-acre Kilby Historic Site, a BC Heritage attraction where a costumed interpreter will lead a short walking tour down the dike to the confluence of the Fraser and Harrison to describe the relationship between the salmon and eagles. If you can’t make it that weekend, don’t worry: the eagles stay in the area often until early December.
KICK UP A STORM ON VANCOUVER ISLAND
Storm watching in Sooke, Port Renfrew, Ucluelet, and Tofino when there are fewer crowds, so you can enjoy stunning scenery in solitude, as well as cozy cafés, restaurants, and galleries.
DISCOVER THE DOG DAYS OF WINTER
Swoosh through white fluffy snow with a pack of Huskies. Dog sledding in Golden and surrounding areas takes you by rivers and mountains—and back in time, to when Canadian fur traders and gold prospectors made their way across frozen fields shouting “Gee!”
PAMPER YOURSELF IN A WINTER PLAYGROUND
We know and love Whistler for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, but the mountain town has plenty to offer for those who prefer their winter getaways to be all about relaxation. With so many spas to choose from, you might find yourself wrapped in seaweed or reclining in an aromatic steam bath. Turn après-ski into après-spa with Whistler’s countless places for Happy Hour and fine-dining.
MARVEL AT WINTER WATERFALLS
Brayden Hall West Coast waterfalls are always gorgeous, but come winter, with so much extra waterflowthey’re especially breathtaking. Pick a trail to explore the drama of the rainforest in places like Langdale Falls, Kelly Falls, and Eagle Falls. Afterward, cozy up by the fire in a cabin or backcountry lodge.
For more inspiration for your winter escape in B.C., visit the Hello BC website.
