Bewitching natural beauty on the Sea to Sky Highway

One of the first parks you'll encounter if you're travelling south to north is Porteau Cove Provincial Park. There's a long pier that offers amazing views of the fjord and Howe Sound, beaches to stroll along, oceanside camping opportunities (reserve in advance!), even scuba diving. There's not a ton of hiking here, but it's the perfect quick stop-off for stretching your legs, snapping some amazing photos, and using the public restrooms.

Next stop: Shannon Falls Provincial Park, home to B.C.'s third-highest waterfall. There's a pretty easy hike through a green, fairytale-esque forest right up to the waterfall, which is massive and misty and winds its way down a rocky cliff. There are several other vantage points that offer lovely views of the falls from afar as well. If you're looking to cool off and don't mind getting wet, you can actually slip below the water and enjoy the spray!

The area's interesting history can be experienced as you drive the route. Make a point to stop off at the Britannia Mine Museum, which offers plenty to do, from the train tour that takes you through the underground mine tunnels to the historic and totally rad ore processing mill to the 1908 machine shop that houses antique equipment and the interactive displays about minerals and panning for gold. It's a well-curated and thought-out museum that has tons of information presented in a really fun way.

Cool off with a stop at Murrin Provincial Park. It's home to Browning Lake, which is perfect for canoeing and swimming, some relaxing hiking trails, and picnic tables for enjoying a snack. It's also an incredible place for rock climbing. Climbs like the Shaman, Sugarloaf, Bog Wall, Leviticus, Petrifying Wall and the Brunser and all set up for anyone who has equipment and is up for a little fun on the rocks!

Take a breather around the halfway point and check in to the Meadowbrook Bed and Breakfast. The warm and welcoming bedroom suite is the perfect place to curl up and get a good night's sleep... after a soak in the garden hot tub, of course. Heated bathroom floors, fireplaces galore, a gorgeous natural setting, and a delicious breakfast add to the experience.

For a real wilderness experience, go for a hike deep into Garibaldi Provincial Park. The longer trails can take you out to the utterly jaw-dropping Garibaldi Lake. Views of glacier-studded mountains, wildflower fields, alpine forests, and turquoise streams make this an absolutely enchanting destination. Some of the hikes are a little tougher but they're worth the time and effort. You can also camp here, but it can get pretty crowded during the summer, especially on weekends!