Winter Road Trip Scenic Highway 7

Start your trip in Coquitlam with a visit to Colony Farm Regional Park. The park is habitat to over 200 bird species with trails that showcase mountain views and the Coquitlam River. Minnekhada Regional Park is another great option for winter bird watching and hiking. Visit Coquitlam’s City Centre & Town Centre Park to grab a bite to eat, and then stroll along Lafarge Lake. There’s plenty to see so book an overnight stay to ensure you have the time to take it all in.

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Make your next stop in Maple Ridge at Billy Miner Alehouse (circa 1911), a local favourite for food and ale. Steeped in history, freight engines still pass by on the same tracks they used over a hundred years ago. Bundle up and take in the historic sights along the Fraser River Heritage Walk, or stay warm and explore history at the Maple Ridge Museum and Archives.

Scenic Highway 7 is a photographer’s dream with multiple waterfalls to discover. While you’re in Mission, wander downtown’s unique shops, and then visit Westminster Abby for one of the best views of the Fraser Valley.

For a cozy winter retreat, stay the night in the luxury cabins at Rowena’s Inn on the River. Settle in with a private patio and view of the river, wood-burning fireplace, heated floors, and deep-soaker Jacuzzi tub for two.  The area is known for year-round eagle viewing including one of the largest gatherings of wintering bald eagles in the world in Harrison Mills.

A must-visit just up the road from Highway 7 is Harrison Hot Springs. The healing mineral waters have been a draw since settlers discovered them in 1858. Celebrate winter by taking a scenic walk by the lake, and then warm up with a hot springs soak and cozy overnight stay at Harrison Hot Springs Resort.

Highway 7 ends at Hope, where Highways 1, 5 and 3 intersect. A former gold mining then logging town and railroad stop along the Fraser River Valley, postcard-pretty Hope is a town of 6,000 tucked into the steep Cascade Mountains. Detour to comfy Owl Street Café, a family-run operation just off the Crowsnest Highway. You’ll need time to peruse the impressively kitschy collection of all things owl—from chainsaw log-art to ceramic to shells, some 300 in all. Don’t miss Manning Park Resort near Hope, located in E.C. Manning Provincial Park, a great destination for dark sky stargazing. You can even rent a telescope for a closer view.

Winter weather in British Columbia can change quickly—be prepared with these winter driving tips. Check out these RV rentals equipped for winter in BC.

Header image: Fraser Valley | Shayd Johnson

Last updated: Dec 17, 2020