West Coast RV Trip for Summer #7: A Northbound Tour Through Western Canada
And we’re back at it––again! Hitting the ground of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway for the ultimate RV road trip. So far, we’ve traveled north from sunny California, checked into the rugged backwoods of Oregon, traversed into Washington state, and cross the border of big and beautiful British Columbia. And we’re not done yet.
Continuing on our West Coast journey towards the Alaskan wilderness, we’ve already experienced a fantastic schedule of pit stops throughout the US and Canada––and this round, we’re heading further north (plus a little detour inland to experience one of the most popular Canadian vacation destinations). Trust us, you’ll want to tag along on this leg.
If you are thinking about taking the RV for a summer drive along North America’s west coast, there is truly no better way to see the sights.
[ITINERARY]
Whistler, BC > Kamloops, BC > Bowron Lake > Prince George, BC > Prince Rupert, BC
Leaving Port Hardy towards Whistler
It’s simply not an RV road trip through Western British Columbia without a detour towards Whistler. The skiing mecca of Canada, and one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world, the sumptuous beauty of the Rockies serves as the backdrop to everything Whistler has to offer––including outdoor recreational activities all year round.
But first, you’ll need to get there. Head back on the same route from Port Hardy back to the ferry docks at Nanaimo, cross the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver, and then take the 99 N for 1.5 hours towards the Whistler RV Park and Campground––the area’s premiere location for long-term parking and amenities. Offering full hookups for back-in and pull-through RVs, plus sewer, water and electricity, this site is a gem for travelers who are eager to get out and explore the area without sacrificing creature comforts.
Then, unload and lace up some comfortable footwear and head into town. It’s said a lot, but it bears repeating for this destination: Whistler has something for EVERYONE. The town itself is known as a playground for the rich and famous, but there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to match every budget, every interest, and every taste. Plus, kid-friendly options, not to mention serving as a perfect canvas for sitting around and doing absolutely nothing. Pitch a tent in one of the region’s many campsites and conservation areas; take a hike and finish with a picnic by a babbling brook; experience world-class shopping and dining in the Village.
With so much to experience, visitors to Whistler would be best advised to make a weekend––or better yet: a long weekend––out of their stay.
Directions:
Take Highway 19 south towards Nanaimo; cross the ferry, connect in Vancouver, and head north along Highway 99 towards Whistler
Whistler to Kamloops, British Columbia
About 4 hours east of Whistler sits the popular city of Kamloops––a perfect spot that blends rich culture, gorgeous scenery and plenty of outdoor activity.
Known as a gateway to outdoor adventures, Kamloops offers a wealth of activities such as biking and fishing. Peterson Creek Park and Kenna Cartwright Park are some of the area’s best spots for hiking and enjoying nature trails. Meanwhile, the convergence of the North and South Thompson Rivers makes Kamloops a hub for water activities. Riverside Park is ideal for picnics, walks along the river, and taking in the scenic views.
When you need to take a break from roughing it in nature, downtown Kamloops has a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes where you can sample local cuisine and shop for souvenirs. And depending on the time of year, Kamloops hosts various events and festivals that can add to your RV trip experience. The Kamloops Powwow, Kamloops Cowboy Festival, and Kamloops Wine Festival are just some of the best examples.
RV Accommodation:
First and foremost, Kamloops is well-equipped with RV parks and campgrounds that cater to various needs––from full hookups to more rustic settings. Popular options include Kamloops RV Park and Sunnyside Heights RV Park both of which include exceptional accommodations for short- and long-term stays. Which is perfect, because the second you arrive, you’ll want to get out and walk around.
Kamloops to Bowron Lake Provincial Park
The shimmering beauty of Bowron Lake is not lost on locals––and it won’t be lost on visitors, either. Renowned for its pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes, this massive recreational area is ideal for RVers passing through.
The highlight of Bowron Lake Provincial Park is the Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit, a 72-mile paddling route that travels through a chain of lakes, rivers, and portages. There are also several hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. The Cariboo Falls Trail is a popular day hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. Shorter and easier trails include the Sandy Lake Trail and the historic Wavy Range Trail.
RV Accommodation:
While there are no real amenities or accommodations for RVs within the park, located about 15 miles northeast is the historic Barkerville Town & Park, offering RV sites with hookups.
Bowron Lake Provincial Park to Prince George, BC
Pulling out of Bowron Lake Park, you’ll want to get onto the BC-16 highway and head northwest for about 2 hours. Then the lights of our next destination come into focus.
Sitting on the Fraser and Nechako rivers, Prince George is a diamond in the rough––literally, it’s a rich and lushly overgrown city with a rural community vibe. Due to its northern location, there is a great display of indigenous culture native to the communities of the area which, for some, may seem like a bit of a culture shock, but the people here are warm, friendly and open to travelers.
Explore local art galleries and studios downtown, which feature works by regional artists. The Two Rivers Gallery offers contemporary art exhibitions and workshops. Learn about the region’s history and culture at the Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre, which features exhibits on local First Nations history, natural history, and science. The Railway & Forestry Museum also showcases Prince George’s heritage in forestry and transportation.
And during the summer months, check out local berry farms where you can pick your own strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Farmers’ markets in Prince George offer fresh produce and handmade crafts.
In all, Prince George provides a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and local flavor that makes it an appealing destination for RV travelers exploring central British Columbia
Prince George to Prince Rupert, BC
From one prince to another. Wave goodbye to the charming town of Prince George and strap in for an 8-hour journey back towards the west coast––a destination well worth the detour. Heading to the coastal town of Prince Rupert, we’re swapping one mainland gem for another one on the banks of the Pacific Ocean. Prince Rupert is a unique destination for RV travelers, offering a mix of stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.
Be sure to sample fresh seafood and local delicacies at many of Prince Rupert’s restaurants. The area is known for its seafood, including Dungeness crab and spot prawns, which you can enjoy at waterfront eateries like Waterfront and Dolly’s Fish Market.
Once in Prince Rupert, you can take ferries or boat tours to explore nearby islands such as Haida Gwaii (formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands) or the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. These excursions offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and experiencing the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Another great idea: take a scenic drive along Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway) to appreciate the stunning coastal landscapes and rainforest scenery of the region. The drive to nearby towns like Terrace or Kitimat also offers beautiful views. But that’s for another journey…
RV Accommodation:
Prince Rupert has several RV parks and campgrounds that provide facilities ranging from basic amenities to full hookups. Notable options include Prince Rupert RV Campground and Seal Cove Campground.
[IN CONCLUSION]
There you have it! Another trek, another stopover, and plenty of beauty in between. Touring Western Canada––specifically the hidden gems of British Columbia––features some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable. Stay tuned for our next leg towards the equally gorgeous Alaskan wilderness. For more information on putting together your own awesome RV road trip, check out Leisure Coachworks to make sure you’re prepared for whatever lies ahead on the great open highway. We service all types and classes of RVs and trailers, plus repair, upgrade and custom-design projects.
