As British Columbians, we seek solace in the mountains, humbled and exhilarated by their magnitude. In eastern BC, dramatic landscapes鈥攚ith their towering peaks, plunging falls, and charming towns鈥攈elp us connect with nature on a grand scale. This summer, discover larger-than-life mountains and outdoor adventure in places like , , and . While the journey may take longer, the experience will leave you awestruck.
Explore Dramatic Mountain Landscapes
Once you鈥檝e been, you know. Mountain ranges in this part of BC are on a different scale. Even the most seasoned adventurist is speechless at the sight of the Rocky Mountains. , home to the largest peak in the Canadian Rockies, is a must-see.
This area is home to seven UNESCO-designated parks, including . Explore the mountain ranges with a lift-accessed alpine hike, or plan a stay in a 聽surrounded by ancient peaks.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures聽
If you love the outdoors, you may have already paid a visit to the Kootenays or Valemount for the abundance of activities. But, once is never enough. From hiking to biking, paddling to golfing, there鈥檚 plenty to keep you entertained.
With four lift-accessed bike parks (including Golden鈥檚 ) and 600-plus trails, the 聽are a mountain biker鈥檚 paradise. Whether your ascent is lift- or leg-powered, you can conquer some of BC鈥檚 best-known bike trails, maneuvering through tight singletrack and wheeling through alpine wildflowers.聽
Paddle the calm waterways or navigate raging rapids. , home to the world鈥檚 largest trout species, is prime for . Tip: hire a guide for insider knowledge. Meanwhile, tee time is served with spectacular mountain views when you 聽at one of the 25 championship courses in the Kootenays.聽聽
Experience Authentic Mountain Culture
A trip to BC鈥檚 mountain towns, as wild and vibrant as the nature surrounding them, is a rite of passage for every British Columbian. Tucked into valleys, on shores of rivers, and along old railway routes, communities like 听补苍诲 聽are pulsing with energy and entrepreneurial spirit. Spoiler alert: the vibe is infectious, if you haven鈥檛 already been.聽
As you may have observed, a feverish pursuit of outdoor activities and great coffee are common traits, but each town has its own personality and charm. Swing by a java joint, like Nelson鈥檚 , to find friendly faces and a laid-back vibe. Absorb the ethos of each place by visiting , exploring historic attractions, popping into boutiques, and meeting interesting characters.
In the mountains, a day of adventure almost always ends with an apr猫s. Sip 聽on a sun-drenched patio, and live like the locals do鈥攊f only for a short while.聽
