10 Best Small Towns to Visit in British Columbia
Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia (or BC) is a great place to discover first hand some of the very best of Canada. Uniquely situated between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, BC’s geographic diversity and splendid cultural history make it a wonderful destination for any visitor, be they domestic or international. Though cities like Vancouver and Victoria continue to rightfully attract much attention, it is also the province’s smaller towns that contain just as much charm and beauty. From mountain views, island breezes, and loads of fascinating history, these small British Columbia towns showcase what makes Canada such a wonderful country to explore.
Ladysmith
Situated on Vancouver Island near the 49th parallel, the town of Ladysmith is a charming and scenic destination that no tourist in the area should miss. Established as a harbor town in the late 1890s, Ladysmith has a modest population of just under 9,000 residents and features a variety of cute shops, restaurants, and local museums, making it a delightfully relaxing place to visit. With excellent opportunities for swimming, sailing, and hiking, Ladysmith truly satisfies those seeking outdoor activities while on the Island. And don't forget to book a whale watching tour, where the chance to see these incredible creatures will undoubtedly become a memory that lasts a lifetime!
Tumbler Ridge
A planned mining community established in the 1980s, Tumbler Ridge is beautifully nestled within the BC Rocky Mountains, where nearly 2,500 residents live. It's an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering fantastic opportunities for hiking and mountain biking amid stunning natural scenery. Exploring landmarks such as Kinuseo Falls, the Murray River, Monkman Provincial Park, and of course the dramatic peaks of the Rockies makes this town truly one of the most scenic locations in northeastern British Columbia. Additionally, charming specialty gift shops and local restaurants serve the visiting tourists, making any trip to Tumbler Ridge sure to be a memorable experience.
Rossland
Very close to the border with the American state of Washington, the “Golden City” of Rossland is nestled within the Monashee Mountains. A popular destination year-round, residents and visitors enjoy the town as a top ski resort and mountain biking center. With a population of just under 4,000 residents, Rossland maintains a charming small-town vibe while being surrounded by some of nature’s most stunning vistas. In fact, among the outdoor activities available are hiking, rafting, zip lining, and even snowshoeing.
Meanwhile several historic buildings can be appreciated here including the Miners Union Hall (1898) and the Court House (1901), which was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. And with many welcoming bars, restaurants, and other mountain shops all around, even just a quick afternoon in Rossland will undoubtedly leave one with a positive impression.
Nakusp
The town of Nakusp is beautifully surrounded by the Monashee and Selkirk Mountains in BC’s West Kootenay region. With a history dating back to the 1890s, this community of just over 1,500 residents offers a great opportunity to enjoy some of the province’s natural beauty. Visit the nearby Nakusp Hot Springs Resort, relax at a lovely beach on Arrow Lake, play a round at several scenic golf courses, or explore a variety of stunning hiking and biking trails—when in Nakusp, a picture-perfect outing is always close at hand. With cool winters and warm summers, this town can be comfortably enjoyed year-round. Add charming souvenir shops and tasty local eateries, and Nakusp will surely delight both passing tourists and those who choose to stay.
Fernie
Established in 1904, the town of Fernie is located on the Elk River, where just over 5,000 residents now live. As both a charming historic town and a naturally beautiful destination, Fernie is a great place to enjoy a variety of activities for solo travelers and families alike. With warm summers and mild winters, there’s rarely a bad time to experience Fernie. Featuring an array of buildings with unique brick and sandstone designs along wide streets, a scenic walk is guaranteed, and views of the Three Sisters Mountains and Mount Proctor perfectly enhance the atmosphere.
Meanwhile wonderful opportunities for fly fishing, camping, hiking, biking, skating, skiing and more can all be enjoyed in town and vicinity. Add in several fascinating museums chronicling the town’s growth, the Historic District, and some tasty local distilleries and restaurants, and time spent in Fernie will definitely encourage any visitor to return.
Smithers
Smithers is a popular destination for those seeking some of BC’s finest ski slopes and fishing opportunities, attracting visitors from across the province and nation. In addition to these activities, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, snowmobiling, quadding, and even paragliding near Hudson Bay Mountain. A trip to the scenic Twin Falls and its challenging trails is also a must, making for an unforgettable experience. Additionally, several local museums offer great alternatives for a day indoors, including the informative Bulkley Valley Museum and the Smithers Art Gallery, which highlight the region’s history through art, artifacts, and firsthand stories of the pioneers and indigenous people who settled the land.
Kaslo
Also known as the “Little Switzerland of Canada,” the town of Kaslo is beautifully located on the western shores of Kootenay Lake, near the Kaslo River. Founded as a mining town in the 1880s, this charming and historic community of just under 1,000 residents keeps a unique old-fashioned atmosphere that will surely impress any visitor. With a variety of late 19th and early 20th-century buildings, walking through town feels like stepping back in time, while welcoming boutique stores and local restaurants are always ready to serve guests.
Explore such landmarks like The Langham, a former hotel constructed in the 1890s and now a cultural museum, Village Hall (1898), or the sternwheeler the SS Moyie that was first launched in 1898! And of course spending on the water for relaxation or some vigorous sports is always a popular choice, in a most scenic and pleasing BC destination.
Kimberley
Once home to the world’s largest zinc mine, the scenic town of Kimberley is beautifully situated between the Rocky and Purcell Mountain ranges. With a modest population of just over 8,000 residents, this popular tourist destination also hosts the Kimberley Alpine Resort and the Kimberley Nature Park. Visitors can enjoy activities like alpine skiing and snowboarding, as well as cycling, hiking, camping, and even golfing. Additionally, Kimberley features several buildings designed in a Bavarian style that make for some unique photos. Be sure to pose with the giant Cuckoo Clock, which stands about 22 feet tall and 12 feet wide, for a vacation moment that will surely create a lasting memory!
Nelson
Nelson was established in the 1890s and served as rail hub and an important silver mining centre into the mid 20th century. Today home to a population of nearly 11,000 people, the town also known as the “Queen City” is beautifully situated within the Selkirk Mountains and on the shores of Kootenay Lake and enjoys a close vicinity to Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Enjoy activities like mountain climbing, hiking, biking, swimming, and alpine sports at the nearby Whitewater Ski Resort. And with landmarks like the Big Orange Bridge and the historic Baker Street and its assortment of restored 19th century buildings, Nelson is always a scenic delight.
Osoyoos
Close to the border with Washington State, the town of Osoyoos is located within BC’s Okanagan Valley and is a very popular summer destination due to its hot temperatures. Located on the shores of Osoyoos Lake, numerous park and beach areas can be found here that are great spots for swimming, sailing, fishing, and picnicking. In addition golf lovers will surely appreciate this town where a number of award winning courses are located including the Desert Gold Course and Park Meadows Golf Club for a most splendid game experience. Osoyoos also boasts fun opportunities to go fruit picking and chances to pick such items like peaches, cherries, nectarines, pears, and apples are indeed a special memory for the solo traveller and family alike.
The Canadian province of British Columbia (BC) joined the Confederation in 1871, and today it is the nation’s third most populous. Known for its vast geographic and scenic beauty, as well as its unique historic significance, BC is indeed a wonderful place to call home and visit as a guest. While the major of Vancouver and Victoria are always rightfully spotlighted, it is also the smaller towns that help make BC such a great place to discover. From the towns on Vancouver Island to the mountain and lake splendor of places like Osoyoos and Nakusp, these charming places are brimming with a very special does of special Canadian beauty. So do not hesitate or wait any longer, for British Columbia is calling!
