It was September 2024. Since my relationship had ended, instead of looking forward to a romantic couples trip, I was en route to yet another summer family vacation. The beginning of September is a great time to visit because while the crowds have left the sunshine has not.
This time were heading to Radium, BC. About a 6ish hour drive from our hometown of Edmonton, Alberta. Radium is a small, quaint mountain town with lots of activities nearby. There are lots of options for nearby hiking or water activities. You are likely to spot Bighorn sheep at some point during your trip.
Here is how our week together unfolded.
Driving in the mountains was the first part of the trip’s fun. It was a sunny day, and stretching out our legs with the mountains as the backdrop was an amazing feeling.
We stopped for an easy hike at Marble Canyon. This was a short easy walk where we were able to eat our lunch outside. It was super hot and we were melting so we sat near the creek to experience a bit of the cold air coming off the water. It had an incredible translucent blue-green color.
Where to Stay
We booked a condo at the Bighorn Meadows Resort. The suite was equipped with a kitchen and a view of the golf course which was located nearby. It had a pool and two hot tubs on site which we frequently visit nightly. In the mornings we would walk ten minutes to grab groceries or coffee and pastries for the day. Once in town, the tourist center provided options for milder day hikes.
The resort contains a golf course. We aren’t into golf, but we had dinner at the clubhouse one night and the views are spectacular. Here is a picture my mom took of me next to the clubhouse.
What to Eat
Our favorite restaurant is Birchwood Restaurant. I’d describe it as an intimate restaurant, upscale but caters to casual attire. Satisfying and fresh cuisine.
After a hot day in the sun, with plenty of cold swims, we ordered Indian takeout to bring back to the resort. We highly recommend The Spice Hut.
However, the ultimate foodie stop is Smokehouse 93. I can never tasted a juicer, more tender slice of brisket and we always order extra to take home for dinner on our drive home.
A bit of a drive (under an hour) to get to this hike from our resort but it was well worth it. I have what I’m told by others as “too much energy” and hiking is something that seems to make me feel calm and peaceful. This hike is mild and has a few locations to stop and enjoy snacks or water if someone isn’t up for the full 10 km trek. My mother was shocked at how many wild mushrooms were growing. Picking mushrooms was something that she did as a child so the nostalgia of that brought her back to those times and she was kicking herself for not having a spare bag to collect mushrooms with. I did not remember foraging for mushrooms and am someone who might poison themselves by picking and eating the wrong ones. I know. I’m not a risk taker. I was not as excited by the plentiful of mushrooms, but if you know your stuff about picking mushrooms this is a great trail to do so.
Beach Time
About a fifteen-minute drive from Radium, you will find the town of Invermere. Invermere is a larger city with more amenities and a refreshing clean lake, Lake Windermere. I love spending time on the lake paddle boarding and swimming while taking breaks to read or nap in the sun.
Day Trip
We started our day with a short hike, the Hoodoo Trail, then planned on going to a natural hot spring and relaxing near a beautiful remote lake that was tucked deep in the mountains.
Next, we ventured to WhiteSwan Lake Park, which, FYI was after a bumpy gravel road, do not recommend it unless you have a durable vehicle! This road leads you to Lussier Creek Hot which contains a natural hot spring,
The hot springs were a nice way to relax after our morning hike and we alternated between hotter and colder pools of water.
After we finished our warm dips we drove on to stop at a lake. The lake contained a small camping stop and we parked at an empty lot and brought snacks and books to the dock where we enjoyed some more R&R. The lake had almost a neon blue color and being in such a remote area felt luxurious.
Other Activities
We usually go to the Radium Natural Hot Springs, but the timing didn’t work out for this trip. It was closed or we were too tired and opted for our resort pool and hot tub instead. It’s a nice place to soak and alternate in the swimming pool.
The is a hike nearby which we got somewhat lost on, then by following the sound of the creek found our way back.
Hike: Midnight Peak Length: 11.9 km Elevation gain: 990 m Route type: Out & back
Escape from the Smoke: A Memorable Day Hike Adventure in Kananaskis
My May long weekend was terrible. My hometown city of Edmonton was covered in thick smoke, causing me to cancel plans of spending the day paddleboarding. The long weekend before that, I had spent out of town but was working. I take great pleasure in nature, and the lack of adventure was beginning to feel stifling. What exactly is adventure? The dictionary defines adventure as an unusual, exciting, and possibly dangerous activity, such as a trip or experience.
Joining Forces: How I Found My Hiking Tribe on Facebook
The friends I used to hike with either did not live in proximity or were too busy, but I wasn’t going to let my lack of readily available hiking buddies prevent me from doing something I love. I signed up for a few hiking meetup groups on Facebook. One of the posts I had spied on was of a very fit, beautiful girl holding an intense yoga pose at the top of the gorgeous mountain range. Like me, Jodie was looking for others who shared her passion for hiking. I immediately sent her a private message, and even though over a hundred people had commented on her post, she quickly replied. This is how I set my alarm on a Sunday morning for 4:30 am to join her and another friend for a day trip hike to Kananaskis. Part of me was afraid; it was approximately a four-hour drive to the hike, and spending an entire day with people I’d never met before was daunting, but I held onto optimism. This girl had magically chosen me to accompany her, and I should be grateful—and I was. The trip was terrific.
Embarking on the Journey: Road Trip Excitement to Kananaskis
The sun was bright, the sky was blue, and the air was warm when we met at the parking lot of a Goodlife gym. I finally met my fellow adventure companions, filled with that initial road trip excitement; we were prepared and ready to take on the day. The usually long, dull drive went by quickly as we discussed our hiking experiences and interests. Sean, the driver, was from Ontario and treasured the Alberta mountains for snowboarding in the winter and hiking in the summer. Jodie, who was in the passenger seat, had recently been on a Vietnam trip and had a healthy appetite for adventure. I was in the back, enjoying their descriptions of the places and activities that ignited their souls. Their stories rekindled my desire for risk-taking. We stopped only once for salty McDonald’s breakfast items and refueled on bitter coffee.
Ascending to New Heights: Conquering Midnight Peak in Kananaskis
Once parked at the Baldy Pass parking lot, I was elated. Finally, we made it; the weather was cooperative. We changed from our socks and sandals into hiking boots; the rattle of aerosol cans and the smell of sunblock and bug repellant hung around the car. Finally, we crossed the highway; there was nowhere to go but up. The forest path began soft and forgiving, the scent of pine surpassed our various lotions, and different green-filled branches shaded our eyes. Finally, I’m exactly where I need to be, I thought. We were fortunate; at the same time last year, the path would still be covered with snow.
Eventually, the angle of our accent increased, and we took breaks to sip water. I wondered if everyone else was starting to feel tired like they wished they were in better shape—the wish for ease, for comfort. Sean reminded me about David Goggins, the popular ultra-marathon runner who was able to push his body past its’ perceived limits.
“No matter who you are, who your parents are or were, where you live, what you do for a living, or how much money you have, you’re probably living at about 40 percent of your true capability.” – David Goggins.
Sean had the trail map on his phone. The last portion to the summit was less than a kilometer away, but we were now facing the challenge of a change in elevation and constant vertical movement.
“It’s quite humbling, isn’t it?” Sean mentioned.
He was right. “Remember when we were at the bottom and thought we were in good shape?” I spoke.
But we kept going, our boots working in zig-zags around the scales of rock. Our minds tried to determine the path of least resistance that Sean pointed out didn’t exist. The lactic acid in my calves kept flaring up, and as I stopped to take a break, I couldn’t help but think, “Why do I torture myself like this?” When my line of sight reached the summit, this is why. Suddenly, I felt like a pebble in the earth, a speck of dust. Incredible mountain formations stood tall around me, and the astonishing landscape greeted me with 360-degree views. The magnificence of the mountains was all-encompassing. I sat on the rocks and felt, as I hadn’t for some time, at rest, peaceful.
A Taste of Delight: Post-Hike Treats in Airdrie
Back at the car, eager to free our sore feet from the confines of our boots and lose the weight of our packs. Still vibing from our accomplished day, we chatted a bit, and then the tiredness began to take over. Jodie had a fantastic suggestion of stopping in Ardie at a popular bubble tea venue, Bubble Tea Brewers. I got a float with graham crackers and cream cheese. The sweetness of the mango is paired perfectly with the saltiness of the cream cheese. The sugar rush restored my depleted energy stores.
From Peaks to Possibilities: Exploring Beyond Kananaskis
Back in the city, I felt slightly blue but slightly relieved. Back to the pollution, traffic, and anticipation of a weekday, but the comfort of a hot shower, no need to anticipate the aches and pains of traveling up a mountain.
And now the only question remains, where to go next?
Even though I’m no longer on the peak of a mountain, I still carry that feeling of possibility and stillness…
Kananaskis is a remote spot full of magnificent mountain ranges providing endless possibilities for hiking, cycling, or practicing water sports. While the area doesn’t have a town like popular destinations such as Banff and Canmore, do, if you are looking for somewhere remote, it’s the ideal place. This secluded area does attract more bears, so be sure to purchase and bring bear spray for any of your adventures. Also, oddly enough, a friend of a friend thought that bear spray worked in an equivalent way to bug spray. Fortunately, these friends discovered that bear spray is used on bears ONLY, and not humans! I genuinely love the Kananaskis area and hope to explore more this summer. Also, try to pick up a map at the visitor center. If you are anything like me and rely on GPS, be forewarned that cellphone service in this area is limited or non-existent. To help maintain the parks, you must pay a fee for the Kananaskis conservation pass, which you can purchase online. This is a fee that is paid per car, not per person.
1. Drive through the Scenic Mountains
Even if you aren’t super athletic, driving through the mountains is enjoyable, and there are plenty of places to stop for photos or enjoy an outdoor meal.
2. Go for a Hike at Barrier Lake
I’ll admit I have yet to do too many hikes in this area, but Barrier Lake is a great spot to stop; if you don’t want to venture up the mountain slope, simply walking around the turquoise water pool is enchanting enough. This is a wide path and a relatively easy hike, so it suits a group. The trek starts with a little to see, but the view of Barrier Lake at the top is epic.
3. Enjoy the Nordic Spa at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
Who doesn’t love a few hours of self-care? What better place than right in the middle of the mountains! Plan a massage and enjoy the health benefits of hydrotherapy at the Kananaskis Nordic Spa.
4. Catch up with Friends
Is there someone you haven’t seen for awhile? If you can, treat yourself to a stay at this relaxing mountain-encompassed hotel. Book a massage or treatment in their Nordic Spa and submerge yourself in the cold and hot therapy pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Sit by the fire and roast marshmallows at night.
I’ve taken both families and friends to enjoy this hotel and had a blast!
You pack, eagerly await the long car drive, and finally arrive in the mountains. Full of trail mix and jerky, you spend days charging up mountains like a pro. The next day, you are a little sunburned and a little tired. It’s always lovely to sandwich a recovery day for travel. Sometimes we need to travel for rest. Heading to a lake with a cooler, book, and floatie is equally as enjoyable as burning the rubber of your sturdy hiking boots.
7. Practise Water Sports at Lower Lake Kananaskis
A hot day is best paired with a refreshing plunge into the water. In fact, getting into a body of cold water stimulates dopamine release. As a lover of warm weather, I used to loathe getting into cold water and now find it as stimulating as a shot of espresso.
8. Go Glamping At Sundance Lodges
I loved staying in a canvas tent at the Sundance by Basecamp. They have camping, canvas tent, and teepees with kerosene heaters. It’s what I consider “glamping”. It’s a wonderful place if you want the camping experience but don’t have the gear or energy to acquire it. Their main administration building provides cooking equipment (for a fee) if you need it and showers.
9. Hike Troll Falls
An easy, quick hike, nice to do after or before a long car ride to stretch the legs. Easy out and back flat trail for any fitness level.
This post was only supposed to be ten things to do, but this is another unique option to explore. I am not adventurous enough to practice extreme sports, but if you are into white water kayaking or rafting, there’s an opportunity to do so.
Oh, and if all these activities have made you hungry, please check out the Kananaski Dining Guide!
There’s really something for everyone in Kananaskis. I hope this post has inspired you to visit this serene destination, and if you have favorite hikes in the area, I’d love to hear about them! And if you are looking for more places with fun mountain adventures, check out my post on Waterton, Alberta.
Joshua Tree National Park is worth visiting. It is a unique and beautiful landscape that offers a range of outdoor activities and scenic views. The park is known for its distinctive Joshua trees, as well as its unique rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiker, a rock climber, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Joshua Tree National Park is a great destination. With over 800,000 acres of protected land, there’s plenty to see and do, from exploring the park’s many hiking trails and scenic drives to camping and stargazing under the clear desert skies.
Overall, a visit to Joshua Tree National Park is worth considering if you’re in the area or are interested in exploring one of California’s most unique.
Here are a few popular places to enjoy breakfast near Joshua Tree National Park:
Crossroads Cafe – a cozy, local cafe with a menu of classic breakfast dishes and creative specials
Joshua Tree Coffee Company – a coffee shop with a range of breakfast options, including pastries, breakfast burritos, and more
The Natural Sisters Cafe – a vegetarian-friendly cafe with a menu of organic, locally-sourced breakfast and lunch options
The Parker Palm Springs – a luxury hotel with a popular restaurant and brunch menu
Country Kitchen – a classic, homestyle diner with a menu of hearty breakfast dishes and classic American fare
These are just a few dining options near Joshua Tree National Park, so be sure to explore the area and try different restaurants to find the ones that best fit your taste and budget.
The Mirror House
The Mirror House is a unique architectural structure in Joshua Tree, California. It is a private residence known for its mirrored exterior, which reflects the surrounding desert landscape and creates an optical illusion of being surrounded by nature. The house was designed by architect Lance Wright and has become a popular destination for architecture and design enthusiasts, as well as for photo shoots and events.
Please note that the Mirror House is a private residence and not open to the public for tours or visits. However, it can be viewed from a distance and is often used as a photo backdrop.
PWinter in my hometown of Edmonton can get extremely cold. The end of December also makes me feel tired and burned out. The idea of driving on snow-filled streets, finding parking, and navigating busy shopping centers in the weeks leading up to Christmas fills me with dread. So instead of participating in the often-unnecessary task of holiday planning, I told my parents we should recharge with a few days of sunshine and lie poolside in Palm Springs. Traveling to the city the week before Christmas was perfect timing. The town wasn’t too crowded, and the temperature ranged from 15 to 30 Celsius, which felt heavenly contrasted with the unbearable -40 degrees back home. The nights cooled off quite a bit; however, most restaurants have heaters, so if you enjoy spending time on a patio, day or night, Palm Springs won’t disappoint! We only had four days, so I was hoping we could hike in Joshua Tree National Park, enjoy some downtime at the pool, visit a mineral spa, and ride bikes through the neighborhoods with mid-century architecture. Fortunately, a flight delay allowed us to stay an entire week, and I’m glad we did. Well, except for my father’s constant complaints about the unresponsiveness’ of WestJet during the busy season. Our flight was due to depart Palm Spring on December 20th; the soonest flight home the airline offered was on January 4th. Lesson learned. Ensure you purchase travel insurance or have suitable protection from your credit card!
Do you need to rent a Car in Palm Springs?
While it is possible to visit Palm Springs without a car, renting a car can make it easier to explore the city and its surroundings. Palm Springs is a sprawling city with many different neighborhoods and attractions, and having a vehicle can make it easier to get around and see everything that interests you.
If you plan to stay within the city limits, it may be possible to get by without a car, as taxi and ride-share services are available, and some hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding desert and national parks, having a car will give you more flexibility and allow you to see more of what the area offers.
Ultimately, whether you need to rent a car will depend on your individual travel plans and preferences. If you plan to stay within the city and don’t mind relying on taxis or public transportation, you may be able to get by without a car. However, a rental car will likely be more convenient if you plan to explore the surrounding area and allow you to see more of what Palm Springs and its surroundings offer. We chose to rent a car and were quite happy. The roads were not that busy, and it was easy to get around and find parking. The only issue we encountered was that it gets dark early, so driving at night wasn’t the easiest when you were in the new location.
The Best Places to Have Brunch in Palm Springs
Palm Springs offers various breakfast and brunch options; here are the places we tried ranked from best but not to worst. We didn’t have any issues eating well in Palm Springs.
L’Ateliar Cafe Palm Springs– the best breakfast by far; the small french spot doesn’t have the most unique ambiance, but the food was insatiable.
Cheeky’s – is known for its inventive menu and long weekend lines. Their brioche cinnamon was so heavenly we had to go back a second time.
Elmers– a traditional spot, always busy, 1960s vibe with ample portions and the fluffiest pancakes!
Farm– beautiful restaurant and lovely patio tucked away at the back. Fresh squeezed orange juice and incredible dishes.
Billy Reed’s Palm Springs– enormous portion sizes and an eclectic old-school ambiance. We easily could have split one breakfast between the three of us. Also went back for dinner, which we split into three and still left feeling stuffed.
Juniper Table– not our favorite morning meal, but it was an ideal spot with the sunshine beating down on us in the am.
Where to Eat Dinner in Palm Springs
Palm Springs offers a variety of dining options, including everything from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants. Here are the places we chose to eat dinner in the city:
TacQuila – an upscale, modern innovative Mexican menu; we sat outside and enjoyed the secluded patio.
Giuseppes– a cozy pasta or pizza place, perfect for popping in or ordering out. Heary meals that satisfied our post-hiking and pool day.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar – a farm-to-table restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and a chic, industrial-style interior.
1501 Gastropub– the perfect place to grab a juicy burger and a glass of rose.
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill– white tablecloths, live music, date night, or dinner out with the parents type of place. Big portions and a nice ambiance.
Billy Reed’s Palm Springs– enormous portion sizes, the three of us split a dinner, soups, dessert, and bottle of wine for $80 and were stuffed.
I chose Workshop for my birthday dinner as I would be spending it in Cabo. It was a vibe; the restaurant felt like we were permitted to eat inside a museum. The setting enamored me; the architecture was simple but bold. High ceilings, straight lines, a modern museum meets church. Super cool. The waiter was incredibly polite and recommended a fabulous bottle of wine. The food was good, but the portions needed more significance to appease my parents.
Hiking
Palm Springs is located near many beautiful hiking trails, offering a range of options for different skill levels and interests. Here are a few popular trails to consider:
Indian Canyons – offers a variety of trails through scenic canyons and streams, including the popular Palm Canyon Trail.
Joshua Tree National Park – features rugged landscapes, unique rock formations, and a diverse array of plants and wildlife.
Tahquitz Canyon – a moderate hike to a 60-foot waterfall and cultural site of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Andreas Canyon Trail – a short, easy hike through a lush oasis surrounded by desert.
Skyline Trail – offers panoramic views of Palm Springs and the surrounding desert, with several scenic vistas along the way.
These are some of the most popular hiking trails in the Palm Springs area, but there are many more options to choose from, depending on your preferences and fitness level. Before embarking on any hike, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear, and always follow Leave No Trace principles.
Hotels
Palm Springs offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Here are a few popular options to consider:
The Parker Palm Springs – a chic, midcentury modern hotel with stylish rooms and a large pool area
The Colony Palms Hotel – a luxurious boutique hotel with a spa and a retro vibe
The Riviera Palm Springs – a historic hotel with a midcentury modern design, multiple pools, and a spa
Ace Hotel & Swim Club – a trendy, hipster-friendly hotel with a large pool, live music, and a popular restaurant
La Quinta Resort & Club – a large, sprawling resort with multiple golf courses, collections, and a spa
These are just a few of the many accommodation options available in Palm Springs, so be sure to research and compare different options to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Due to a canceled flight, we initially stayed at the Saguaro hotel and the Margaritaville.
The Saguaro- is a colorful hotel with an incredible view of the mountains from the pool. Although this hotel is known for being a party hotel, we were lucky as we went the weekend before Christmas, so it was pretty decent. In addition, the hotel has an excellent Mexican restaurant, El Jefe, that makes tasty margaritas and quesadillas to enjoy poolside.
The Saguaro Hotel in Palm Springs is a popular hotel known for its colorful, whimsical design and prime location in the heart of Palm Springs. If you’re looking for a fun and vibrant hotel with a central location and a focus on outdoor activities, the Saguaro could be a good choice. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional or luxurious hotel experience, other options may better fit your needs. It’s always a good idea to research and compare different hotels to make sure you choose the one that’s right for you.
Margaritaville Palm Springs –is a hotel and resort complex inspired by the music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett. It offers a tropical-themed atmosphere, with multiple pools, restaurants, and bars on site. However, the margaritas and food at the Saguro hotel were way better. This hotel feels like being at a resort that offers free bike rentals and has several restaurants within walking distance. It was closer to the downtown center as well. Whether or not the Margaritaville is an excellent hotel depends on your individual preferences and expectations. For example, if you’re a fan of Jimmy Buffett’s music and enjoy a fun, laid-back atmosphere, you may want your stay at the resort.
Is visiting Palm Springs Expensive?
The cost of visiting Palm Springs can vary depending on your travel style and budget. However, Palm Springs can be considered a relatively affordable destination compared to other popular tourist destinations.
Accommodation in Palm Springs ranges from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, so you can find options that fit your budget. If you are going in a group, consider renting a house or Airbnb so that you can cook some meals at home and share this expense.
Dining in Palm Springs can also be affordable, with various options from fast food to upscale restaurants.
Attractions in the area, such as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, hot air balloon rides, and the Palm Springs Art Museum, also have varying admission fees, so you can choose to spend as much or as little as you like.
Additionally, many outdoor activities in the surrounding desert, such as hiking and camping, are free, making it possible to enjoy the area without breaking the bank.
While some expenses, such as accommodation and dining, can add up, visiting Palm Springs can still be considered an affordable destination, especially if your budget and plan carefully.
Biking in Palm Springs
Biking can be fun in Palm Springs, especially if you enjoy outdoor recreation and scenic landscapes. The area has various biking options, from leisurely rides along flat paths to more challenging mountain bike trails in the nearby hills. I loved seeing the mid-century modern architecture with a backdrop of the mountains. I also ran the bike route, which was clean and free from traffic!
The Palm Springs area has several bike rental shops where you can rent a bike for a few hours or a full day, and there are several bike paths and trails that are well-suited for recreational riding. For example, the Palm Springs Bicycle Trail is a flat, paved path that winds through the city and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
In addition to recreational biking, the area is also popular with road cyclists and mountain bikers, who can find challenging rides in the surrounding hills and mountains. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, there’s something for everyone in Palm Springs.
Why not Spend a Day in Desert Hot Springs?
Desert Hot Springs, located near Palm Springs, is known for its natural hot mineral springs, which are said to have therapeutic benefits. Here are a few popular places to enjoy mineral pools in Desert Hot Springs:
Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa – a luxury resort with several mineral pools and a full-service spa
Sea Mountain Nude Resort & Spa Hotel – a clothing-optional resort with mineral pools, hot tubs, and a spa
Miracle Springs Resort & Spa – a mid-range resort with multiple mineral pools, a hot tub, and a spa
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum – a historical museum and event space with a mineral pool and hot tub open to the public for a fee
Azure Palm Hot Springs- a relaxing oasis and an incredible place to stay until sunset.
We spent the day at Azure Palm Hot Springs and loved the relaxed vibe, heated pool and saunas. The view of the sunset from the therapy pools was magical.
These are some of the most popular places to enjoy mineral pools in Desert Hot Springs, but there are many other options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. Before visiting a mineral pool, be sure to research the location and check for any restrictions or health warnings, as the minerals in some hot springs can be harsh or irritating to some people.
Overview
Palm Springs is an excellent destination if you seek sunshine and rest in a laid-back town. Palm Springs also hosts Modernism week, where many exhibits and homes are open to those interested in architecture. Or if you have an interest in Tennis, the Indian Wells Open is another fun event to plan a visit to Palm Springs around.
After two canceled trips to Mexico, I racked my brain for places to recharge that would be adventurous and relaxing for a family vacation with my parents. However, horror stories of stranded travelers and increased costs prompted me to consider a local trip instead. Having driven to Vancouver Island from Edmonton, I knew the distance and rise in gas prices couldn’t compete with Flair’s $100 flight to the island.
While Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city, is most often sought out with direct flights or ferries and shuttles. However, I decided to take advantage of the lesser-known Comox, which offered a cheaper & less busy flight and a rental car; book one in advance; the checkout counter had a sign that said they were sold out! I spent a few days exploring Qualicum Beach, Parksville, Nanoose Bay, Coombs, Ucluelet, and Tofino. It sounds like many destinations, but these are quieter, smaller towns with most people found content on a beach with a picnic.
Qualicum Beach
Qualicum Beach
We chose the longer ocean route to get to our hotel and stopped to have lunch on the beach. My mother packed us an entire lunch of sandwiches and fruit, which I swore we would have to throw away at security, but we were able to keep to our luck! This town has a Saturday market to check out if you fly on this day, but we were eager to check in to our resort and enjoy a drink in the sun.
Qualicum Beach
Parksville
Rathtrevor Provincial Park
We stopped at a grocery store to pick up more snacks, smoked salmon, cheeses, and fruit. We then headed to Rathtrevor Provincial Park, a lovely park with a nice beach full of kites and picnic tables. We came here once for a walk and then the following day for a 5km run through the park before heading for lunch.
Rathtrevor Beach
Nanoose Bay
View from the Pacific Shores Resort
We stayed at the Pacific Shores Resort, which was great. It has an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna, which we enjoyed each night. My dad and I also borrowed ping pong paddles and played a few games to give my mother a break from us for an hour! There were the most beautiful sunsets in the evenings, and with outdoor propane firepits, it was a charming way to end the evening. Several families brought smore kits and roasted marshmallows with their kids. We snacked on the meat, cheese, and beer we bought in Parksville.
Sunset at the Pacific Shore ResortNotch Hill Loop
Activities:
Rathover Park- 5km loop to run or walk
Nanoose Loop – 2.9Km loop that we choose to run, nice gravel trail.
Notch Hill Loop Trail- 5 km loop with a view of the bay and a swing!
Coombs
Coombs
A quick stop, most people come to see the goats that walk on the roof of the building; however, there is much more to discover at this stop. This pit stop was the liveliest place we found on our trip. We enjoyed a fabulous lunch at an Italian restaurant, Cuckoo. I bought some fresh doughnuts from Billy G’s doughnut shop and more snacks from the market, which was quite ample. There, were picked up heart-shaped truffle cheese, the tastiest sausages, and an apple galette. I would also recommend the cheese bread and pies if we had time and more real estate in our stomachs!
Cuckoo Restaurant Coombs
Ucluelet
Wild Pacific Trail
We stayed at the Blackrock Resort. It is a picturesque place on the ocean, with an outdoor hot tub, and is steps away from the West Pacific trail. There is also a beach where some people had made fires and cozily eaten near- something to plan for the next time we go! We opted for a room with a kitchenette to cook breakfast in (eating out every day isn’t ideal for us); the room had high ceilings, a nice balcony to sit out and listen to the ocean on, and a large soaker tub. It is also dog friendly if you planning to bring a furry family member.
Wild Pacific Trail
Tofino
Long Beach
We went to Tofino to do a bear tour via boat. Unfortunately, the covered boat was not available, so we ended up with these bright red spacesuit-looking overalls in an open boat. We have several bears in Alberta, so the sightings weren’t too eventful. But my mother wearing the red get-up was priceless. If I went again, I would do a seaplane tour, as it would be cool to see the beaches from that unique vantage point. We stopped at Shelter for lunch, which had a lovely, heated patio with a fireplace and a great view.
Tofino Eats
The catch of the day, cooked over an open fire at the Zedd hotel was our best meal of the trip!
At the Zedd Hotel & Shelter
Activities:
Atelo– recommended by our guide for seaplane tours
Chesterman Beach-Nice beach for walking and watching surfers
Wild Pacific Trail
Chasing Waterfalls
Qualicum Falls
Road Trip Pit Stops
To break up our drive, we visited Cathedral Grove and Qualicum Falls, and they were the perfect easy hiking spots! Hope you enjoyed this post and are inspired to take your own trip to the majestic Vancouver Island!
UNANCHORED EVE 