BC Circle Explorer

majestic mountains, scenic rails & coastal wonders

Header Photo Credit: VIA RAIL

Discover the heart and soul of British Columbia on a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, meaningful culture and unforgettable history. Enjoy a spectacular ride aboard VIA Rail, where towering mountains, winding river valleys and wildlife unfold. Explore the gold rush heritage of the historic Cariboo region, revel in the dramatic coastal beauty of the Inside Passage and embrace the alpine charm of Whistler. Rediscover and fall in love with this remarkable province!

TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1 – WILLIAMS LAKE, BC

The adventure begins with a visit to historic Hat Creek Ranch, a living history site allowing you to experience the lifestyle of early Cariboo pioneers. This evening arrive into Williams Lake.

DAY 2 – PRINCE GEORGE, BC

Travel north to Prince George, with a stop at the legendary Barkerville Historic Site. Step back into a vibrant gold rush town with costumed interpreters, historic buildings and even gold panning!

DAY 3 – PRINCE RUPERT, BC

Board VIA Rail’s ‘Skeena Route’ for a full-day journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery, winding past rugged mountains, sparkling rivers and dense forest enroute to Prince Rupert for a two-night stay.

DAY 4 – PRINCE RUPERT

Explore the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site with a guided tour then enjoy free time to explore and wander. This is one of the oldest surviving salmon canneries in Western Canada. Relax at your own pace!

DAY 5 – PORT HARDY, BC

Embark on BC Ferries’ Inside Passage full-day sailing to Port Hardy, voyaging through the fjords and forested islands. Enjoy a shared cabin to rest and refresh during the journey.

EXPERIENCES & HIGHLIGHTS

Cruise the Inside Passage through channels surrounded by mountains that tower out of the sea and experience just how immense and diverse BC’s coast truly is. The Northern Expedition makes this 15-hour journey travelling over 500 kilometres along the coastline of one of BC’s most spectacular scenic routes: the Inside Passage. Pass fjords and islands all while spotting whales, sea lions and eagles on this breathtaking sailing adventure.

DAY 6 – PARKSVILLE, BC

Take in the charm of the quaint coastal villages of Telegraph Cove and Campbell River, wander beneath the towering ancient Douglas firs of Cathedral Grove and delight in the whimsical goats in Coombs all on the way to Parksville for a relaxing night on Vancouver Island.

DAY 7 – WHISTLER, BC

This morning travel to Horseshoe Bay then onward to Squamish for the picturesque ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola before arriving into Whistler for the final two nights!

DAY 8 – WHISTLER

Enjoy a relaxing last full-day exploring Whistler Village.

EXPERIENCES & HIGHLIGHTS

Immerse yourself in the charm of Whistler Village, an alpine town brimming with shops, cafes and art galleries. Enjoy a leisurely day strolling along the scenic pathways, taking in a museum or having a meal all while enjoying the stunning mountain views! Take a memorable ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola, where amazing views of Howe Sound, glacier-capped peaks and lush forests await at the summit.

DAY 9 – RETURN HOME

Whistler Village Stroll, Dual Mountain Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova