Most Charming Small Towns In British Columbia

For those who haven’t yet experienced the magical sceneries of British Columbia, the province is best known for its mind-blowing natural attractions, primarily mountains and vast snow and greenery embellished lands. Most of the best small towns in British Columbia, Canada, enjoy a panoramic view of surrounding mountains, have a strong sense of local community, and are often busier in the Winter for the picturesque backdrops and snow-centric activities and sports. From world-class skiing slopes to never-ending natural skating arenas, the best small towns in British Columbia can be both a short escape and a permanent relocation that every family member will enjoy. 

Kimberley

Kimberley is for those who admire the old-school Canadian countryside lifestyle for its traditional wooden cabins and surrounding wildlife. The town is best known for being home to British Columbia’s largest municipal park, Kimberley Nature Park, which has huge network of multi-use trails covers forested hillsides, some of which are old roads and some are hand-built footpaths. Things to do in Kimberly include skiing, sightseeing, and camping in the vast lands of wilderness. Visitors love renting an old-school cabin in the woods and indulging in what untouched nature offers, from pure, unpolluted air to breathtaking sceneries. Even though the widespread stereotype suggests that all Canadians are friendly, the locals of Kimberly take the kindness further and are among one the friendliest communities you’ll come across in BC. 

Harrison Hot Springs

As the name suggests, Harrison Hot Springs is home to therapeutic healing natural attractions, Potash and Sulpher are the go-to destinations in the area, but the town offers much more. Views of Bear Mountain that overlooks the city are one of the attractions that make Harrison Hot Springs uniquely memorable to visitors. There is no public transportation to the mountains, but those looking for an adventure can hike with local tour guides and avoid running into wild species in the area. Located in Vancouver, Coast & Mountains’ Fraser Country, the Village of Harrison Hot Springs is a small lakeside community known to be a healing destination for visitors worldwide.

Lumby

Lumby is a small community located at the north end of the beautiful Okanagan Valley at the edge of the Monashee Mountains. It is best known to be the undiscovered gem of the area. The town is the perfect charming escape for those seeking to experience the feel of real small-town vibes in a Canadian community, as locals pride themselves on the solid dynamic their village enjoys. Activities in the area include hiking, camping, and scenic picnics in its many natural parks. Popular destinations in Lumby, BC, include the Lumby Lions camping site, Arbor Park, and the Salmon Trails.

Sandon

A more common destination in the Selkirk Mountain Range, Sandon sits high in the heart of the “Silvery Slocan.” Sandon is considered almost a ghost town and is visited for that reason. The town experienced two natural disasters, including a fire in 1900 that burned down its downtown, creating an economic setback for locals and forcing them to relocate. Some of the best places to visit in Sandon include the Sandon Museum, Idaho Peak, and the surrounding natural lands.  

Silverton

Silverton is one of the most underrated destinations in British Columbia, nestled in the beautiful Selkirk Mountains. Once a mining community that workers from all over Canada moved to, it is now one of the most peaceful places to relax. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers plenty of activities—exploring nearby trails on foot or bike, fishing at numerous lakes, fly-fishing in rivers like the Kootenay River, and skiing down Mount Mackenzie. Pack your backpack and disconnect in the wilderness for an authentic experience away from modern technology, giving visitors a glimpse into life for ancestors, settlers, and the original residents of the area. 

Greenwood

Greenwood, BC, is different from all other towns on this list of the best small towns in British Columbia because of its emphasis of historic landmarks and preserving its true identity. It is nicknamed the smallest city in Canada, and Downtown Greenwood is the perfect representation of a community that has long been striving for growth. Must-see destinations include the Lotzkar Memorial Park and heritage architecture of the core downtown area, such as Gulley Block, city hall, and the post office on south Government st. 

Ladysmith

Ladysmith, BC, is a historic coal mining town and oyster harbor located on the 49th parallel on the east coast of Vancouver Island. A well-established town with a lively downtown that attracts thousands of visitors annually, enjoying perfect weather and breathtaking nature-centric views. Unlike many small towns on this list, Ladysmith enjoys an urban setting that’s not even slightly comparable to any other small town in British Columbia. Its Vibrant first street was named the best street in Canada by the Canadian Institute of Planners in 2017. With remarkable attractions such as the Ladysmith Little Teather, and Musem, the town is more than just an outdoor adventure destination. 

Nelson

A globally-renowned skiing haven, Nelson offers the perfect mix of small-town welcoming vibes, big-city activities, and stunning nature. Nelson has a vibrant and carefully restored downtown shopping area and a busy social scene with live performances, arts, and music nearly every night of the week. In addition to its top skiing destinations, Nelson is a go-to destination for mountain bikers and hikers in warmer seasons. The town is reputed to have more restaurants per capita than Manhattan or San Francisco. It is also home to three local breweries: Torchlight Brewing, Backroads Brewing, and Nelson Brewing Company.

Tofino

Tofino is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island on the tip of the Esowista peninsula, and what was once a small fishing village is now known for its pristine beaches, a unique mix of coastal, forest, mountain scenery, and surfing. The town offers a little bit of everything, balancing rich Canadian culture, outdoor activity destinations, and mind-blowing panoramic views. Enjoy everything from watersports to wildlife watching, and visit a few of the locally owned businesses when in town. Popular destinations to visit include the Clayoquot Sound, Raddar Hill, and Tofino Botanical Gardens. 

Ultimately, BC is one of the best all-inclusive destinations for enjoying unique small-town experiences. It offers something for everyone, highlighting its natural beauty through its attractions and activities. The most charming towns in BC make perfect weekend getaways to relax or spend quality family time. Many of these towns are close to each other, especially near Selkirk Mountain, making them ideal for a road trip and helping you make the most of your visit to "The Left Coast."