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Escape to the mountains in lightly traveled British Columbia

Exploring the Majestic National Parks of British Columbia: A Traveler's Guide to Untamed Wilderness

British Columbia, Canada's westernmost province, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, boasting some of the most breathtaking national parks on the continent. From towering glaciers and ancient rainforests to rugged coastlines and alpine meadows, these protected areas offer an unparalleled escape into the wild. As travel rebounds in 2025, with more adventurers seeking sustainable and immersive experiences, British Columbia's national parks are emerging as top destinations for eco-conscious explorers. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone craving serenity amid stunning landscapes, these parks deliver on every front. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the highlights, hidden gems, and practical tips for planning your journey through BC's national park system.

Let's start with Yoho National Park, nestled in the Canadian Rockies along the border with Alberta. Spanning over 1,300 square kilometers, Yoho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and fossil-rich Burgess Shale. The park's name, derived from a Cree word meaning "awe and wonder," perfectly captures the experience. One must-see is Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada's highest waterfalls, plunging 373 meters in a thunderous cascade. Hikers flock to the Iceline Trail, a challenging 20-kilometer loop that rewards with panoramic views of glaciers and wildflower-strewn valleys. For a more relaxed outing, Emerald Lake offers canoe rentals and easy shoreline strolls, where the water's vibrant hue reflects the surrounding peaks. Wildlife sightings are common here—keep an eye out for grizzly bears, mountain goats, and elk. In summer, the park buzzes with visitors, but shoulder seasons like early fall bring fewer crowds and a palette of golden aspens.

Adjacent to Yoho is Kootenay National Park, another Rocky Mountain gem that stretches 1,406 square kilometers. Established in 1920 as part of a deal to build a highway through the Rockies, Kootenay blends accessibility with raw beauty. The Banff-Windermere Highway cuts through the park, offering scenic drives with pullouts for viewpoints like Marble Canyon, where turquoise waters carve through limestone gorges. Hot springs enthusiasts will love Radium Hot Springs, a natural thermal pool perfect for soaking after a day of exploration. Hiking options abound, from the short Stanley Glacier Trail, which leads to a hanging glacier, to the multi-day Rockwall Trail, a 55-kilometer backpacking adventure through alpine passes and wildflower meadows. Kootenay's diverse ecosystems support a rich array of flora and fauna, including bighorn sheep and black bears. For those interested in history, the park features interpretive exhibits on Indigenous peoples like the Ktunaxa Nation, who have stewarded these lands for millennia.

Venturing northward, Glacier National Park (not to be confused with its U.S. counterpart in Montana) covers 1,349 square kilometers of the Columbia Mountains. This park is a haven for mountaineers and backcountry enthusiasts, with over 400 glaciers feeding into rushing rivers and lush valleys. The Rogers Pass area is the heart of the park, home to the Illecillewaet Glacier and trails like the Asulkan Valley, which ascends to stunning viewpoints. Winter transforms Glacier into a skier's paradise, with world-class backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. However, summer visitors can tackle the Abbott Ridge Trail for sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks. The park's challenging terrain demands respect—avalanche risks are real, so guided tours are recommended for novices. Ecologically, Glacier plays a crucial role in preserving old-growth forests and habitats for species like the endangered mountain caribou.

For a change of pace, head to the coastal wonders of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island. This 511-square-kilometer park is divided into three units: the Long Beach Unit with its expansive sandy shores, the Broken Group Islands for kayaking adventures, and the West Coast Trail, a legendary 75-kilometer hike along rugged cliffs and beaches. Pacific Rim embodies the raw power of the Pacific Ocean, where storm-watching in winter draws crowds to witness massive waves crashing against ancient cedars. Summer brings opportunities for surfing, whale-watching (gray whales migrate here), and exploring tide pools teeming with starfish and anemones. The Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations have deep cultural ties to this land, and visitors can learn about their heritage through guided tours and interpretive centers. Accommodations range from beachfront campsites to eco-lodges, making it ideal for families or romantic getaways.

Further afield, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site on Haida Gwaii (formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands) offers a truly remote experience. Accessible only by boat or floatplane, this 1,495-square-kilometer archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site co-managed by Parks Canada and the Haida Nation. Ancient totem poles at SGang Gwaay, a Haida village site, stand as testaments to thousands of years of Indigenous history. The park's rainforests, home to massive Sitka spruce and red cedars, shelter unique wildlife like the Haida Gwaii black bear. Kayaking through the islands reveals hidden coves and hot springs, while hiking trails lead to viewpoints over misty fjords. Sustainability is key here—visitors must adhere to strict "leave no trace" principles to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Don't overlook Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, a collection of 15 islands in the Salish Sea. This 26-square-kilometer park is perfect for those seeking a milder, more accessible adventure. Saturna Island offers serene beaches and hiking to Mount Warburton Pike for panoramic views. Kayaking and sailing are popular, with opportunities to spot orcas, seals, and bald eagles. The park's Mediterranean-like climate supports Garry oak meadows and rare wildflowers, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Planning your trip to these parks requires foresight. The best time to visit varies: summer (June to September) is peak season for hiking and camping, but expect crowds and book reservations early through Parks Canada's online system. Winter offers solitude and activities like cross-country skiing in the Rockies. Getting there often involves flying into Vancouver or Calgary, then driving or taking ferries—renting a car or RV is ideal for flexibility. Entrance fees are reasonable, with a Discovery Pass covering multiple parks for a year. Accommodations include campgrounds, backcountry sites, and nearby lodges; for luxury, consider spots like the Wickaninnish Inn in Pacific Rim.

Sustainability is paramount in BC's parks. Climate change threatens glaciers and wildlife, so practice eco-friendly habits: stick to trails, pack out waste, and support Indigenous-led tourism. Parks Canada emphasizes reconciliation, with programs highlighting First Nations' stories and stewardship.

In essence, British Columbia's national parks are more than destinations—they're portals to profound natural and cultural experiences. Whether gazing at Yoho's waterfalls, surfing Pacific Rim's waves, or contemplating Haida totems in Gwaii Haanas, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this wild corner of the world. As one recent visitor put it, "These parks don't just show you nature; they immerse you in it." Plan your adventure today and discover why BC's wilderness continues to captivate travelers from around the globe.

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Read the Full USA Today Article at:
[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/2025/07/25/british-columbia-national-parks-travel/82798537007/ ]