British Columbia (BC) offers a diverse array of overlanding routes that cater to both novice and seasoned adventurers. From coastal drives to rugged mountain trails, BC’s landscapes provide countless opportunities for exploration. Here’s an updated guide to some of the most remarkable overlanding routes in the province as of 2025.
By Zack Doehler
Vancouver Island Overlanding Routes
Vancouver Island is a paradise for overlanders, offering a mix of coastal, forest, and mountain terrain. Whether you’re looking for beachside camping, remote wilderness, or scenic drives, these four destinations should be at the top of your list.
1. Pacific Rim Highway (Highway 4 – Vancouver Island, BC)
This legendary route stretches from Parksville to Tofino, offering breathtaking views of coastal rainforests, pristine beaches, and dramatic ocean vistas.
✅ Lush rainforests and rugged coastlines
✅ Direct access to Tofino and Ucluelet – world-famous surf and beach camping
✅ Plenty of campgrounds and dispersed camping spots
✅ Great for all vehicle types – mostly paved with off-road detours
2. Cape Scott Provincial Park (Northern Vancouver Island, BC)
For true off-grid adventure, Cape Scott offers rugged overlanding routes leading to some of the most isolated and stunning coastal landscapes on the island.
✅ Remote and wild – perfect for serious overlanders
✅ Beautiful secluded beaches – including the famous San Josef Bay
✅ Challenging logging roads – best for high-clearance 4×4 vehicles
✅ Limited facilities – true wilderness camping experience
3. Tofino (West Coast Vancouver Island, BC)
Tofino is a dream destination for overlanders, offering beachside camping, world-class surf, and easy access to old-growth forests and remote trails.
✅ Beach camping at its finest – set up camp near the ocean
✅ World-renowned surf town – vibrant coastal community
✅ Easy access to trails and nature – rainforest hikes, hot springs, and island-hopping
✅ Tons of outdoor activities – surfing, kayaking, fishing, and whale watching
4. Lower Vancouver Island – Port Renfrew & Jordan River (South Vancouver Island, BC)
This section of the island is packed with coastal adventures, featuring rugged shorelines, rainforest trails, and great off-road routes.
✅ Port Renfrew’s rugged coastline – gateway to the West Coast Trail
✅ Jordan River camping – popular surf and overlanding spot
✅ Easy access from Victoria – great for weekend trips
✅ Multiple off-road trails – leading into the backcountry
Best Overlanding Routes on Mainland BC
1. Cariboo-Chilcotin Backcountry Trail (Interior BC)
Spanning the heart of BC, this trail traverses rolling grasslands, dense forests, and river canyons. Travelers can explore historic Gold Rush sites, remote lakes, and Indigenous communities. The route varies from well-maintained gravel roads to more challenging sections, making it ideal for overlanders seeking a blend of culture and adventure.
✅ Rich historical significance – traces BC’s Gold Rush era
✅ Varied landscapes – open grasslands, rugged canyons, and deep forests
✅ Great for wildlife spotting – home to bears, moose, and bald eagles
✅ Remote and off-the-grid – plenty of isolated camping areas
✅ Opportunities for fishing and boating – multiple lakes along the route
2. Harrison Lake Overland Trail (Lower Mainland, BC – Near Vancouver)
Located near Vancouver, the Harrison Lake Overland Trail is perfect for those new to overlanding. The trail winds along the lake’s shoreline, offering scenic views, secluded campsites, and access to natural hot springs. The dirt roads are generally in good condition, but drivers should be prepared for occasional rough patches.
✅ Close to Vancouver – easy weekend overlanding trip
✅ Beautiful lakeside camping – stunning sunrise and sunset views
✅ Access to hot springs – soak in natural pools along the route
✅ Suitable for all vehicles – accessible for high-clearance SUVs and trucks
✅ Great for water activities – kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing
3. Whipsaw Trail (Southern BC – Near Princeton)
Renowned among overlanding enthusiasts, the Whipsaw Trail near Princeton offers challenging terrains, including rocky sections, mud pits, and steep inclines. The trail also boasts historical significance, with remnants of old mining operations dotting the landscape. A high-clearance 4×4 vehicle is recommended for this route.
✅ One of BC’s most iconic off-road trails – a must-do for serious overlanders
✅ Technical terrain – requires off-road experience and well-equipped vehicles
✅ Historic mining sites – old cabins and relics along the trail
✅ Incredible mountain views – panoramic vistas at higher elevations
✅ Multi-day adventure – can be done in one long day or over a weekend
4. Fraser Canyon (Interior BC – Follows the Fraser River)
This historic route follows the Fraser River, passing through dramatic canyons, tunnels, and alongside the river’s rapids. The journey offers a mix of paved and gravel roads, with opportunities to explore old gold rush towns and Indigenous heritage sites.
✅ Dramatic canyon landscapes – stunning rock formations and river views
✅ Tons of historic stops – gold rush ghost towns and Indigenous sites
✅ Mix of easy and rough trails – suitable for all experience levels
✅ Great fishing and camping spots – set up camp near the river
✅ Wildlife sightings – bears, eagles, and bighorn sheep frequent the area
5. Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) (Southwest BC – Vancouver to Whistler)
Connecting Vancouver to Whistler and beyond, the Sea to Sky Highway offers stunning coastal and mountain views. While much of the route is paved, numerous offshoots lead to backcountry areas, alpine lakes, and hiking trails. It’s a versatile route suitable for various skill levels.
✅ One of the most scenic highways in Canada – ocean, mountains, and forests
✅ Tons of side trails – great for beginners and advanced overlanders
✅ Year-round accessibility – one of the few overlanding routes open in winter
✅ Access to world-class outdoor activities – hiking, climbing, and mountain biking
✅ Great road conditions – well-maintained and safe for all vehicles
Final Thoughts
British Columbia’s vast and varied landscapes provide endless opportunities for overlanding adventures. Whether you’re seeking challenging trails or scenic drives, the routes listed above offer a glimpse into the province’s natural beauty and rich history. Prepare your gear, fuel up your rig, and hit the trails for an unforgettable overlanding experience in 2025.
