B.C. is overflowing with epic adventures, from breathtaking hikes and stunning road trips to cozy small towns tucked away in the mountains. There’s a lot to see, so we turned to locals to find out what the must-visit spots for 2025 are.
Everyone knows the go-to stops like Whistler and Tofino — and they’re worth a trip, no doubt — but we wanted the less-talked-about places, where crowds thin out but there’s just as much beauty.
B.C. locals came through, responding on the Narcity Canada Facebook page, sharing the most underrated spots in the province that people should visit in 2025.
It looks like the new year is going to be filled with small towns, and we’re here for it. Locals shouted out these quaint communities, surrounded by the signature scenery of the West Coast and brimming with charm. If you want getaways filled with views, cozy vibes, and a dash of adventure — here’s where to go.
Revelstoke
Okay, there’s more than a dash of adventure in this small town. It’s embedded into the very fabric of the community, which makes sense given the surroundings.
This little town set in the interior of the province gives off a Stars Hollow feel with an adrenalin-pumping twist. It’s enclosed by rugged mountains, where you can hit the slopes on skis in the winter and hike up to peaks in the summer. Oh, and there are also multiple hot springs to visit here, adding another layer of intrigue for the explorers out there
The town prides itself on what the tourism website describes as « small town charm » with « big mountain adventure, » so you get the vibe.
While the untouched nature around the community is pretty spectacular to explore, the downtown area is also worth your time. Think charming storefronts, dreamy small-town streets, and local businesses galore.
A trip here means enjoying a little bit of everything, from soaking in the great outdoors to catching a movie at the heritage cinema downtown and drinks afterwards.
Fort Langley
If you live in Vancouver this is an easy one to check off your list, and very worth the hour-long drive outside of the city to visit. A day trip here includes wandering in and out of the small boutiques and local shops, driving by sprawling farms and idyllic winters, and sipping a coffee at Wendel’s while cracking open a new book. Sounds pretty dreamy right? That’s Fort Langley for you.
Fort Langley is a part of the larger Langley area, and history buffs can also visit the historic fort and museums here. The town also has a famous community hall, which is the backdrop for a few Hallmark movies. A lot of this area wouldn’t look out of place on the set of a small-town romance flick, which is part of its intrigue.
If you go in the warmer months don’t forget to explore the surrounding wineries, which make a day trip that much more fun.
Sechelt
The Sunshine Coast has a whole lot going for it. With a name like that, how can you not want to visit? And it delivers.
Sechelt is one of the many communities here, which you can get to from Vancouver by taking the 40-minute-long BC Ferries right from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale and then driving about 30 minutes. Once you arrive you’ll be greeted by coastal views with rocky beaches and thick forests alongside them. It’s a little hub that’s lively thanks to the artisans and creatives in the area.
If you want a getaway filled with peaceful nature, leisurely beach walks, and pristine beauty — this is the place. Then add in the town’s amenities, from the tasty restaurants to boutique shops, and you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re headed to the Sunshine Coast though, you might as well stay a while. There’s a string of charming communities, coastal rainforests, a rugged shoreline, and a ton of activities to go along with it. It’s an area begging to be explored to the fullest.
Squamish
This city is smack dab in the middle of Vancouver and Whistler, which might be part of the reason it often goes overlooked. People literally just drive through it, but it’s worth a stop all on its own.
The Coast Mountains wrap around the small downtown area, overlooking the mouth of the Howe Sound. It’s another place where adventure is at the doorstep of a lively town with everything you need. Local businesses here offer up amazing food, cool finds, and local goods. Then you have the wild surroundings that will make you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere when you venture into them.
There are eight provincial parks here ripe for adventure, and the majestic Stawamus Chief overlooks the town. You’ve probably heard of the Stawamus Chief hike — a legendary heart-pumping trail – and there are lots of other hikes here that offer unbelievably beautiful views too.
Winding rivers, towering mountains, jagged cliffsides, serene lakes, and lush forests are all within reach here. The best part is that after a day of adventuring to see them you can enjoy the vibrant community which puts on loads of events and fun activities in town.
Nelson
Another small city, Nelson feels far away from the bustling streets of Vancouver. It’s set in the Southern Interior of the province, surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains and alongside part of Kootenay Lake.
The mountain town has beautiful heritage buildings and a center that’s full of art galleries and shops. The tourism website says that it’s been called North America’s « best ski town and Canada’s best small arts and culture town, » which is a testament to how much a trip here offers.
It’s got the classic B.C. beauty, along with tons of restaurants — apparently more per capita than Manhattan — craft breweries and specialty stores.
One stroll down Baker Street here will probably have you considering a permanent move.
Take it from the people who know best and start planning a trip to one of these spots!
Source: Narcity – Read More
