These roadside stops, with dedicated viewing platforms, picnic tables and restrooms are more than just breaks from the drive—they're perfect spots to soak in BC's breathtaking beauty. Here are our 10 favorite places to stop and stretch our legs during our road trips.
1. Tantalus Lookout (Highway 99, Sea-to-Sky Highway)
We never miss a stop at Tantalus Lookout on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. The dedicated viewing platform, complete with picnic tables, offers unbeatable views of the rugged, snow-capped Tantalus Range.
2. Porteau Cove (Highway 99, Sea-to-Sky Highway)
Porteau Cove is one of the best places to watch the sunset over Howe Sound. The calm waters and surrounding mountains make for a serene pit stop on your way back to Vancouver.
3. Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint (Trans-Canada Highway 1)
The Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint is an engineering marvel and a scenic wonder. Situated along the Trans-Canada Highway, this stop features a well-marked platform where you can observe the historic Spiral Tunnels, a series of tunnels built to navigate the steep terrain of the Canadian Rockies.
4. Rogers Pass Memorial Park (Trans-Canada Highway 1, Glacier National Park)
Rogers Pass Memorial Park is one of those places that blends natural beauty with rich history, It's a perfect picnic stop on your road trip through the Rockies. Nestled in the heart of Glacier National Park, this spot isn’t just about stunning views—it’s a tribute to the perseverance and engineering marvels that shaped Canada.
5. Osoyoos Lookout (Highway 3, Crowsnest Highway)
Driving up Anarchist Mountain to this viewpoint feels like leaving one world and entering another. The dry, desert landscape of Osoyoos is such a contrast to the lush forests you find elsewhere in BC. The view from here is expansive and unforgettable.
6. Alexandra bridge (Trans-Canada Highway 1)
This historic bridge, dates back to the 1920s and is complemented by a small park with a viewing platform. The walk to the bridge takes 10 minutes from the Parking lot. It’s a great place to stop and stretch your legs if you're driving through the Fraser canyon.
7. Mount Terry Fox Rest Area (Highway 16, Yellowhead Highway)
This rest area is more than just a place to stretch your legs. The view of Mount Terry Fox from here is spectacular. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break, have lunch on one of the picnic tables and admire the mountain named after one of Canada’s heroes.
8. Jordan River Ocean View (Highway 14, Juan de Fuca Highway)
A beach with logs scattered along the shore and expansive views of the Olympic Peninsula and the Salish Sea. It’s a fantastic spot to feel the Pacific Ocean breeze, watch surfers riding the waves, and if you're lucky see whales from the shore.
9. Malahat Summit Viewpoint (Highway 1, Vancouver Island)
The Malahat Summit is a personal favorite. On a clear day, you can see across Saanich Inlet to the mountains beyond. The view is just spectacular, and it’s a great place to stop, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
10. Kamloops Lake Viewpoint (Trans-Canada Highway 1)
This viewpoint features a dedicated area with panoramic views of Kamloops Lake and the surrounding landscape. It includes picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for lunch while enjoying the views of the desert.
These stops have become our favorite places to stretch our legs and take in the stunning landscapes during our road trips through British Columbia. They offer the perfect opportunity to pause, recharge, and soak in the breathtaking views. We hope these spots add a touch of magic to your journey and make your road trip even more memorable. Enjoy the scenery and safe travels!
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