Winter doesn't have to mean a halt to all outdoor activities, especially in B.C. The province is huge and filled with natural wonders around the corner, so to get through your bucket list you have to explore during the colder months too.
The natural beauty that B.C. is known for extends into the winter, from snowcapped mountains and the frozen lakes nestled in their valleys, to toasty hot springs to warm up in.
As the fall winds down and the colder breeze starts to come through you can keep your spirits high by making getaway and road trip plans to these stunning destinations. It's the perfect excuse to escape the city and breathe in the crisp fresh air of the colder months.
Here are seven natural wonders that will leave you inspired to explore all winter long.
Helmcken Falls
This majestic waterfall in Wells Gray Provincial Park is actually the fourth highest in the country and cascades dramatically off a cliff into a stunning canyon.
What makes it even better is that this breathtaking waterfall is actually pretty easy to see. You just have to walk up a trail in the park and you'll reach the lookout point, which gives you the perfect view of the fall. AllTrails rates the trail as moderate, and it's less than a kilometre long.
It's ideal for anyone wanting to soak in some beauty without too much effort.
In the winter the canyon starts to fill with a mix of snow and ice as the water slowly begins to freeze. The result is a winter-wonderland-like scene of the waterfall and surrounding nature.
If you go at the right time of year you can watch as the water crashes down into the layers of white snow below it.
Lake Windermere Whiteway
This is actually the longest skating trail in the entire world, and it's surrounded by towering mountains that will make you feel like you're on the set of a Hallmark movie.
Gliding along this trail in the winter will give you stunning views, and it's pretty cool to say you experienced something from the Guinness Book of World Records.
The spectacular path is on Lake Windermere, which is in Invermere. The stretch of groomed track spans 34 kilometres and you can either skate along it or cross-country ski on the track beside it.
You can stay up to date on opening times by visiting the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club Facebook page.
Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club website
Storm watching in Tofino
Winter in B.C. comes alive in the mountains, but you can't forget about the coast either.
Tofino is known as a beautiful summer destination, with kilometres of sandy beaches and premium surfing. The colder months here bring in a different kind of beauty though — the sight of massive waves dramatically crashing onto the rugged shoreline.
The Tourism Tofino website said that winter temperatures average at about eight degrees Celsius, so you can escape the bitter cold by visiting the Vancouver Island town. You'll replace the snow with lots of rain, but also be able to see incredible ocean swells and moody views of the coastal town.
The website also said that some waves get up to 20 feet in height, and paired with the gusts of wind and quickly changing skies, it creates quite the scene.
Find safe vantage points for storm watching here, and experience a different kind of beach weather this winter.
Panorama Mountain
There are a ton of ski resorts in B.C. which will give you access to some of the most beautiful natural wonders of winter – the mountains.
Panorama Mountain stands out thoughfor its incredible beauty, with rocky mountain peaks as far as the eye can see. You can escape the crowds of Whistler at this resort in the Purcell Mountains. Spend the day skiing here or just enjoy a little getaway at the resort.
If you do get up the mountain make sure to stop at Elkhorn Cabin for a mulled wine.
You can also visit the Radium Hot Springs nearby, which are yet another natural wonder to enjoy in the winter.
Liard River Hot Springs
Being outdoors in the winter also doesn't have to mean freezing your butt off. There are a few stunning natural hot springs out there in the province, and Liard River Hot Springs is definitely one to check out.
This spot is tucked away in a picturesque boreal spruce forest, creating a tranquil atmosphere that allows you to completely disconnect and enjoy the natural environment.
It's a seriously long road trip from Vancouver (21 hours), on the route to Alaska actually, but worth the journey there.
The day-use fee from April 1 to October 31 is $5 for adults, or you can get an annual pass for $10.
Lake O'Hara
People all over B.C. love to explore the mountains all summer long, taking on picturesque hikes and multi-day excursions.
In the winter they have a different quality to them that is just as beautiful to experience though. Everything is covered in a fresh blanket of snow, creating a peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel like you're far away from anything else.
Yoho National Park's Lake O'Hara is popular for its bright turquoise waters in the summer, but is the perfect place to experience that winter tranquillity if you're willing to make the trip.
You'll have to use snowshoes or skis to trek the 11-kilometre-long groomed trail, but you can book a stay at the Lake O'Hara Lodge to make the journey that much more worth it.
You'll see the snow-covered peaks of Yoho National Park and the glissing scenery below, and escape the crowds that usually come with the summer months.
Staying at the lodge lets you warm up next to the fire and rest up before going out with a guide and exploring the lake and surrounding area, which looks like a winter wonderland at that time of year.
Cable car full of people overlooking the Niagara Gorge and fall foliage. 