It’s nearly winter and it’s time to put away the camping gear and start thinking about cozy nights by the fireplace with friends and family. Vancouver is wonderful in the cold season but there’s no harm in planning a wintery escape from the city. The best part is, there are plenty of magical places just a short drive away from Vancouver to visit in winter. All you need to do is choose where you want to go, make sure your car is winter ready, and pack your bags!
Read on for our top picks for road trips around Vancouver this winter.
Situated on the remote edge of the continent, Tofino has plenty to offer warm weather enthusiasts and even more to offer during the winter. Watch the waves breaking on the shore while you’re nice and warm indoors in a beachfront resort. Enjoy the hot springs while the rest of your surroundings are freezing – its surreal. And do it all without the crowds!
If you love the outdoors, then a trip to Kelowna is a must. Walk over blankets of snow in snowshoes or go cross country skiing through a winter wonderland. Go ice skating at the rink in Stuart Park and then enjoy some local treats from food trucks. Explore the town and sample regional wines to round off a great winter holiday.
Head to the Sunshine Coast when you start feeling the lack of Vitamin D. The short ferry ride makes it feel like a holiday away from the mainland. The Tetrahedron Provincial Park with its four winter huts is perfect for the adventurer in you – providing you have a 4×4 vehicle equipped with chains and avalanche gear. For something more civilized, explore the gorgeous National Historic District with its craft breweries and walks steeped in history. For a totally unique experience, explore
Winter is a terrific time to visit Portland for a short city break. The artsy vibe and laidback atmosphere makes for a great mid-winter vacation. Visit some of the city’s awesome museums or go on a brewery tour. If you decide to visit in February, you’ll catch the awesome light festival with installations from some very talented artists. Take in some history with walking tours of the city’s hidden tunnels or go ice skating at the rink – there’s something in Portland to suit every taste.
No list of winter road trips around Vancouver is complete without mentioning Whistler – the epitome of everything that symbolises a Canadian winter. The drive to Whistler is stunning with plenty of scenic spots, like Shannon Falls or Brandywine Falls, along the way. Hit the slopes with skis, snowboards, or snowmobiles or relax with a cup of hot chocolate in front of a fire, if that’s more your vibe. Watch the bald eagles soar while you float on the river and then come back to a luxurious massage at a spa.
As you can see, winter doesn’t mean you have to spend all your time in Vancouver. There are plenty of mini road trips that will rejuvenate you during the drearier months of the year. Ascent Car Rental as a selection of cars that are winter ready along with SUVs and AWDs that are equipped with winter tires, so you’re set for that winter road trip. Whether you need rack hitches or snow tires, get in touch with us to ask us about what we offer and to book the perfect car for your upcoming trip.