Top 3 summertime driving roads in B.C.

​B.C. is often referred to as supernatural, or even God’s country, simply because of the amazing natural spectacles we have. We are lucky to have such easy access to Whistler, the Rocky Mountains, the Pacific Ocean and much more. No less magnificent are the great driving roads we have leading to these destinations. Here is our top three list of the ones you need to hit this summer with your favourite vehicle.

Sea-to-Sky Highway

I recently had a chat with a well-travelled fellow from Ontario who said this long and windy stretch of Highway 99 from Horseshoe Bay leading to Pemberton is the “best road in the world.” It’s hard to argue with that statement when you see firsthand the views of Howe Sound on one side and the Coast Mountains looming in the horizon. The improvements made leading up to the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics have also made the conditions much safer. Stop by Squamish for a coffee or lunch on your way, and visit the brand new Sea-to-Sky Gondola that takes you 885 metres above sea level in 10 minutes.

Duffy Lake Road

If the drive to Pemberton wasn’t quite enough, continue eastbound on 99 towards Joffre Lakes. You’ll experience both wide open and twisty bits of highway that transition into switchbacks as you make your way on Portage Road that turns into Lillooet Lake Road and eventually Duffy Lake Road. This will take you right past the provincial park featuring great hiking trails and a choice of three lakes prime for swimming or kayaking. From there continue on a 56-kilometre journey past lush vegetation and high mountainous passes to Lillooet, B.C.

Trans-Canada Highway

Although a little longer of a route, the trip on the Trans-Canada heading to Alberta is one that everyone should take at least once. The scenic route takes you through towns big and small in B.C. that you might not have an opportunity to visit otherwise, such as Chilliwack, Hope, Merritt, Kamloops and Salmon Arm, just to name a few. These pit stops also provide the perfect place to refuel your car and your stomach. Spread the journey out over a couple of days to savour the sights, or do a cannonball run toward the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies in under 10 hours.

What are you waiting for? Choose a vehicle, call up a friend and make for the open road this summer.