I explored a dreamy BC small town that's named among Canada's 'most beautiful' destinations
It's not far from Vancouver!
A small town near Vancouver
Canada has no shortage of beautiful places; from coast to coast, there are endless views to take in. B.C. is famed for its natural wonders for a reason, with unmatched scenery that draws people from all over to experience it.
This hidden gem, a small town tucked away in the mountains outside of Vancouver, has been dubbed one of the "most beautiful" of them all, though, on a Narcity poll.
After living in B.C. for two years and exploring as much as possible, I couldn't agree more. Pemberton is the kind of town you stumble upon just driving through, and inevitably fall in love with. The first time I visited, it went just like that.
I was headed to the popular Joffre Lakes hike, which is about 30 minutes past town, and couldn't help stopping in at the dreamy little town.
Driving through Pemberton feels like you've reached that classic mountain town you usually see in movies exclusively. Mount Currie overlooks everything, towering above and providing a constant backdrop of beauty. Then there's the winding river, wide open fields with animals roaming around, and cozy small-town streets.
It's an idyllic place, with unmatched natural beauty that'll keep you coming back.
Since that first drive through, I've frequented Pemberton and even lived there for a short stint — so I'm confident in my ability to craft an itinerary for a day well spent in town. If you want to see one of the most beautiful places in the country, here's how to do it.
Enjoy the journey
The drive to Pemberton hints at the beauty that awaits you there. From Vancouver you ride along the Sea-to-Sky highway — that means ocean to one side, mountains to the other.
Along the way, you'll pass through the famous ski town of Whistler, a good pit-stop if you want a more lively vibe before reaching the slow pace of Pemberton.
Fuel up
Pemberton is made for adventure, but first, it's time to fuel up for it. Grab a coffee from Blackbird Bakery or Mount Currie Coffee Company to start your day here.
If you're hungry, you can get a burger from Mile One Eating House, which takes the classic comfort food and elevates it in the best way. The town is small, but it actually has a pretty good selection of food, so have a look around and eat up.
Get outside
This place is made for the outdoorsy person. Anytime of year, there are endless activities here, but the fall is an especially pretty time to visit.
If it's not too cold, you can head for a swim at One Mile Lake, or just walk the loop around the water for an easy stroll. There are endless other hikes in the area, winding you through the forest and to stunning lookouts.
Nairn Falls Provincial Park makes for a relatively easy journey, but with the reward of seeing booming falls cascade through a canyon.
If you're up for it, there are also horseback riding tours here that can lead you through the breathtaking nature of the area.
Visit the local businesses
North Arm Farm is a popular spot here and worth checking out on a sunny afternoon. There's food and farm-fresh produce, and the property is stunning. There are also U-Pick fields here, with blueberries still in season in the fall.
The pumpkin patch also opens on September 17, and there are wagon rides throughout October to make a visit that much more wholesome.
Right in town, there are a few other cute shops, like The Pemberton Collective and Small Potatoes Bazaar, that are fun to pop into.
If you're looking for the perfect fall getaway, one that's just far enough from Vancouver to feel like you've truly escaped city life, head to Pemberton. Fresh air, untamed wilderness, and a cozy town await you there.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.