For decades, the Fraser Canyon was the main travel corridor through BC for Indigenous people and then the fur trade, Gold Rush, railways, and the Trans Canada Highway. But that changed in the 1980s when a new, shorter highway was built through the Coquihalla Mountains.

Since then, the Fraser Canyon has quieted down and sees a fraction of the cars it used to. That means it makes an incredible road trip through tiny towns that used to be huge centres, to historic sites that let you step into the past, and to incredible viewpoints.

If you’re driving through southwestern BC, take a bit of extra time, skip the Coquihalla, and take a road trip through the Fraser Canyon instead. I have driven this stretch of highway countless times over the years, but I recently made time to slow down and take it in.

I’ve put together a complete Fraser Canyon road trip guide for you. It includes:

• A map of the Fraser Canyon that shows all the places I mention in this post.
• 10 Best things to do in the Fraser Canyon: small towns, historic sites, viewpoints, outdoor activities, and more
• Extending your trip: tips for road tripping further afield from the Fraser Canyon
• Where to eat in the Fraser Canyon: My picks for the best restaurants and cafes
• Where to stay in the Fraser Canyon: The places I stayed and recommend.
• Fraser Canyon road trip basics: How to get there? How long to spend? What’s the weather like? And lots more.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Destination BC: Vancouver, Coast, and Mountains for hosting some of my experiences on my recent trip. My previous trips were at my own expense. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Fraser Canyon Map

To help you plan your trip and find your way around, I created a custom Google Map of the Fraser Canyon for you. It includes every place I mention in this post.

10 Best Things to Do on a Fraser Canyon Road Trip

Explore Downtown Hope

Hope is one of those towns where people stop for gas and fast food on the outskirts but miss the quaint downtown. I should know: I was one of those people.

But a few years ago, I started heading into downtown Hope to get coffee at Blue Moose Coffee on Wallace Street. I’d get my drink, then stroll through the towering conifers at Memorial Park. The tranquil Japanese-style Hope Friendship Garden in a corner of the park is a great place to take a break from hours in the car.

As I visited more often, I started to notice the chainsaw carvings dotted around town – apparently, there are over 80 of them! It became a fun game to find new ones on each visit.

I was also intrigued by the Rambo chainsaw sculpture outside City Hall. On my last visit to Hope, we actually spent the evening watching First Blood in our hotel room. Not only is the movie shot in Hope, but many of the locations in downtown Hope are still easily recognizable. The town even has a self-guided Rambo-themed walking tour you can take!

If you’re looking to shop, there are a few gift shops and second-hand shops worth a rummage. My favourite is Baker’s Books. They have tons of used books, and almost everything in the store costs just $2. I haven’t had time to visit, but I’ve also heard great things about the local and affordable art at Hope Arts Gallery.

Wander Through the Othello Tunnels

The Othello Tunnels are one of the most picturesque historical sites in BC. The tunnels were built in 1914 for the Kettle Valley Railway, which used to connect the Kootenays with the BC coast via a route that went through the Okanagan and what is now the Coquihalla Highway.

There are four tunnels connected by bridges inside the tight, granite canyon. It’s a flat and easy 10-minute walk to the tunnels along a path beside the Coquihalla River. The gravel path is smooth enough for wheelchairs and strollers. Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour wandering through the tunnels and taking photos.

In 2021, huge floods damaged the site, and it was closed for a few years. The site finally reopened after major repairs in June 2025. Right now, the first two tunnels and the beginning of the third have reopened with plans to open the fourth tunnel and the rest of the third once more repairs are complete.

If it’s a warm day, don’t miss stopping at Kawkawa Lake on the way back from the tunnels. There is a small beach on Lakeview Crescent with a roped-off swimming area and rafts to jump off. We loved cooling down there on a super hot late summer day.

Go Back in Time at Yale Historic Site

As a kid growing up in BC, we spent a lot of time learning about the Gold Rush, so it was pretty cool to visit Yale Historic Site.

The site is a museum that includes a historic house, BC’s second-oldest church (built in 1863), and an outdoor tent city that replicates what life was like in Yale during the Gold Rush. There are exhibits and artifacts that explain the local history. I especially liked the first-hand stories about the old piano.

They also have a free gold panning station where I unearthed a microscopic flake of gold! (I was excited to find it, but didn’t know what I would do with it, so I put it back for others to find.)

While the town of Yale was home to about 15,000 people at the height of the Gold Rush, now it is quite sleepy with only about 160 residents. It’s worth taking a walk around the town and down to the riverbank.

You can also drive out to the end of Toll Road, just north of town, for great views of Lady Franklin Rock, a huge rock island in the middle of the river.

One of the outdoor tent exhibits.

Walk Across Historic Alexandra Bridge

Alexandra Bridge has been on my to-do list for a long time. I first saw this historic bridge on Instagram about ten years ago, but it took until this summer for me to finally visit.

These days, Highway 1 crosses the Fraser River on a recently updated arch and span steel bridge high above the water. But the historic suspension bridge lower in the canyon dates back to 1926 and is now part of a provincial park.

You can walk downhill on the former Highway, now a gravel road, to the bridge. Walking across the honeycomb steel bridge deck is a bit daunting since you can see the rushing waters of the Fraser River below your feet.

Allow about 10 minutes each way for the walk down to the bridge.

Ride the Hell’s Gate Airtram

I have been driving past Hell’s Gate Airtram since I was a kid. I remember whining to my parents that I wanted to stop, but we didn’t have time on our way to Kamloops to visit family. Recently, I finally made it happen!

Hell’s Gate is the narrowest part of the Fraser Canyon with the wildest rapids. This section posed the most problems for early road and rail builders, so there were many landslides. Today, the canyon is home to a series of fishways that provide a less strenuous path for migrating salmon. A suspension bridge, built in 1948, also stretches across the river.

The Hell’s Gate Airtram opened in 1970. It drops 157 metres (515 feet) into the canyon – that’s the steepest non-supported tram in North America. The ride down gives you a great view of the narrow gorge. At the bottom, there are viewing platforms, a restaurant, gift shops, and exhibits about the history of the fishways. You can also walk out onto the suspension bridge.

The view from the Airtram, viewing platforms, and suspension bridge is great. You really get a sense of what it was like to be an Indigenous fisher, perched on the rocks with a dip net, or a railway worker trying to build a track on the edge of a cliff.

However, the entire attraction is a bit dated. I can imagine it bustling in the heyday of Fraser Canyon travel in the 1970s and ’80s. If visit with the mindset that you are visiting a quirky tourist attraction from another era, it’s kind of fun. But if you expect a shiny, modern experience, you’ll be disappointed.

I should also note that you don’t have to pay for the Hell’s Gate Airtram to visit the bottom of the canyon. You can hike down a gated gravel road from a highway pullout just south of the Airtram. The road is 1.5 kilometres each way with a drop of 190 m. Allow 30 to 45 minutes round-trip for the hike.

Once you get to the bottom, you can access the suspension bridge, viewing platform, exhibits, shops, etc., for free.

Immerse Yourself in Indigenous Culture at Tuckkwiowhum Village

If you’re interested in learning more about Indigenous culture, visit Tuckkwiowhum Village near Boston Bar. Pronounced “Tuck-we-ohm”, the village’s name means “great berry picking place”.

The village includes lots of outdoor exhibits that explore what pre-contact Nlaka’pamux life was like. You can see a summer lodge, a winter pit-house, a smoke house, food caches, and more.

I found it interesting to see how the Nlaka’pamux culture compared with other nearby Indigenous cultures. For example, the pit house was similar to ones I had seen at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler and the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos, but each pit house was differently adapted to the local climate and culture.

Guided tours and other cultural events are sometimes available, but if there isn’t anything scheduled, you can walk around on your own on a self-guided tour. Just check in at the gas station before you head into the village.

Get an Adrenaline Rush at Kumsheen Rafting

Until fairly recently, I was terrified of whitewater. I’m a tentative kayaker, and the moving water portion of the Bowron Lakes canoe circuit had me a little scared. But I went whitewater rafting in Squamish a few years ago and had a great time.

I was excited to go whitewater rafting on the Thompson River just outside of Lytton. The Thompson flows into the Fraser at Lytton, which is known as Kumsheen in the Nlaka’pamux language since it means “rivers meeting”. Many people consider the Thompson River Canyon a continuation of the Fraser Canyon since Highway 1 runs through it too.

I had driven through the Thompson Canyon lots of times, gazing down at its churning waters, so I knew rafting it would be fun… and a little terrifying. I booked a trip with Kumsheen Rafting, who have been running trips on this river for over 50 years. They are a family-owned business, with founder Bernie Fandrich still at the helm.

Our guide, Jasmine, is a Lytton local, and told us about her journey from a power-rafting guide to a paddle-rafting guide. I had no idea that the Thompson and Fraser Rivers (along with the Grand Canyon) were some of the only places to offer motorized whitewater rafting since the rapids are so big.

We opted for the paddle raft experience, which was exhilarating as we plunged into whirlpools and got slammed by big waves. We got soaked, but I welcomed the water since it was 38C!

Since we went in early September, we also got to paddle through thousands of salmon working their way upriver. It was one of the most unique ways to experience the salmon run – I really understood how hard they have to work to get to their spawning grounds!

Learn About the Past at the Lytton Chinese History Museum

Sadly, 90% of the town of Lytton burned in a devastating wildfire in June 2021. Today, the town is rebuilding. One of the first places to rebuild is the Lytton Chinese History Museum. Lorna Fandrich, wife of Kumsheen Rafting’s founder, runs the museum, which reopened in May 2025.

The little building sits on the site of an 1880s Chinese temple, built to serve Chinese railway workers. The museum uses historical artifacts, photographs, and quotes to tell the story of the everyday life of Chinese Canadians in Lytton and the Fraser Canyon from the 1850s to 1940.

The Lytton wildfire destroyed the museum’s entire collection in 2021. Thanks to donations, Lorna has rebuilt a great collection of artifacts that are now on display. The museum is open Thursdays through Mondays in the spring, summer, and fall.

Enjoy the Scenic Drive to Lillooet

Many people miss the upper part of the Fraser Canyon since they keep going east on Highway 1 along the Thompson River towards Kamloops. However, if you have the time, drive Highway 12 to Lillooet. It takes about 1 hour from Lytton.

It’s a beautiful drive high above the canyon, looking down to isolated ranches across the river. The road is very winding, and in one section, it narrows to one lane as it crosses a slide above a cliff.

Once you arrive in Lillooet, I recommend checking out the Fort Berens Estate Winery. Their tasting room has a great location overlooking the Fraser River and the town. My husband belongs to their wine club and enjoys their award-winning reds.

Lillooet has interesting geography since it sits at the intersection of the desert interior and the coastal rainforest. The views from town are quite desert-like, but if you drive 10 minutes out of town to Seton Lake Recreation Area, you’ll start to get into more coastal forest. The huge glacier-fed lake is also spectacular.

Go Hiking

As a hiker, most of my past trips to the Fraser Canyon have involved hiking. If you can spare the time, it’s worth devoting a day or two to hiking here. The scenery is spectacular, and the trails are never crowded.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Here are a few of my fave hikes in the area (and a few that are still on my to-do list):

Serpent’s Back

Volunteers from the Hope Mountain Centre built the Serpent’s Back Trail in 2020. Located just west of Hope, the trail climbs to several viewpoints along a ridge. From the summit, you can see the town of Hope, the Fraser River, and many surrounding mountains.

The 5.5 km moderate trail has 435 m of elevation gain and takes about 2.5 hours to complete. As of September 2025, the trail is closed due to a nearby wildfire, but it should reopen soon.

Hope Lookout

The steep and moderately challenging Hope Lookout Trail is Hope’s answer to the Grouse Grind. The viewpoint at the top has interpretive signs and an incredible view of the town below.

It climbs 470 metres over 2.25 km (for a 4.5 km round trip) from the trailhead next to Highway 1 at the entrance to Hope. Plan to spend about 2.5 hours on this trail.

Thacker Mountain

If you’re looking for views of Hope with a bit less effort, try out the Thacker Mountain Loop on the north side of Hope. The first part of the trail is a climb to the top of the mountain. But after that, the terrain mellows out as you complete a loop around the peak, visiting several viewpoints.

The moderate trail is 4.3 km round-trip with 200 m of elevation. It takes about 1.5 hours to do this hike.

Spirit Caves

This Spirit Caves hike in Yale leads to an incredible viewpoint over the Fraser River. You can also visit some small hollows amongst large boulders, which is how it got its name. The trail is very steep with loose rocks and creek crossings, so it is best for experienced hikers.

The 7 km round-trip trail has 600 m of elevation gain and takes about 3.5 hours.

Tikwalus Heritage Trail

The Tikwalus Heritage Trail follows historic Indigenous and fur trade routes high into the mountains above the canyon near Alexandra Bridge. There are several viewpoints along the way and a backcountry campground at the end of the trail.

It’s 12.6 km round trip with 968 m of elevation gain, so it takes about 5 hours. This trail is featured in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Stein River Trail

The Stein River Valley near Lytton is one of my favourite places in BC. It’s one of southwestern BC’s only intact watersheds and is an important spiritual place for the Nlaka’pamux Nation. To get to the trail, you need to take the free 2-car Lytton Reaction Ferry across the Fraser River.

From the trailhead in Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Park, you can follow the path 10.5 km upriver to Earl’s Cabin Campground. (Beyond there, the trail is closed due to wildfire damage.) The trail passes the rushing river, goes through groves of ponderosa pine and cedar, and crosses clifftops.

There are also several opportunities to view Indigenous pictographs that are over 1000 years old. The easiest place to see them is at the Asking Rock, just 0.3 km from the trailhead. But there are several other sites where you can spot pictographs on cliffsides and boulders. Do not touch them because the oils from your skin can damage them. And of course, be respectful in this special place.

You can make your hike in the valley as long or as short as you want. For a short hike, I recommend the flat walk to the Asking Rock – it’s 0.6 km round trip. For a longer hike, head to Devi’s Staircase Camp, an 8 km round trip with about 150 m of elevation gain. You can find more info about this trail in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Extending Your Fraser Canyon Road Trip

Most people will visit the Fraser Canyon as part of a longer road trip. Since the area sits at the intersection of several travel corridors, I’ve got a few options for extending your trip in various directions.

Highway 3 and Manning Park

Extend your trip by heading towards the Okanagan on Highway 3 through Manning Park. The core of the park is only 45 minutes from Hope, and there are a few things to see along the way.

The Hope Slide viewpoint is only 15 minutes east of Hope. From the highway, it’s hard to see much, but from the viewpoint, the scale of the devastation is mind-boggling. In January 1965, one of Canada’s largest landslides tumbled down the mountain, covering the highway, displacing a lake, and spewing rocks up the far side of the valley. Today, you can see the huge debris field of boulders.

The history of the Japanese internment during WWII is one of the most shameful parts of BC’s modern history. Until recently, I had no idea there was an internment camp along Highway 3 that once held over 2,600 people. I also hadn’t heard of the Tashme Museum, which has exhibits about the camp. It has limited opening hours, so I haven’t visited yet, but it’s on my list.

E.C. Manning Provincial Park is one of the best places for hiking in BC. Over the years, I’ve visited countless times to hike. If you’re visiting for a quick day trip, I recommend the Lightning Lake day use area for picnics, swimming, and views or the drive to the top of Blackwall Peak for alpine flowers and a great viewpoint.

If you want to hike, you’re spoiled for choice. For wildflowers, the Heather Trail is great. And in the fall, you have to see the larches turn gold on the Frosty Mountain Trail. If you’re looking for something flat with scenery, the Lightning Lake Loop is a great family hike. I’ve got tons of details on hikes in Manning in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Highway 1 to Kamloops

Continuing northeast on Highway 1 into the Thompson Canyon feels like the natural continuation of a Fraser Canyon road trip. It takes about 2 hours to drive to Kamloops from Lytton, but you can also just drive the first hour to Cache Creek.

If you’re looking for good views of the canyon, stop at the Skihist Provincial Park day use area. It’s just past Kumsheen Rafting and is a great place to look down at the river and the railway on the other side.

Stop in the tiny town of Spence’s Bridge to grab something to eat at the historic Packing House restaurant.

In Cache Creek, don’t miss Horstings Farm Market just north of town on Highway 97. The sprawling complex has lots of fresh fruit and veggies as well as local meat, eggs, jams, and pickles. Their on-site bakery is amazing – we always pick up a pie to take home.

I also keep meaning to visit the Historic Hat Creek Ranch just outside of Cache Creek. The local Bonaparte First Nation are now managing the site. Along with historic buildings and exhibits from the Gold Rush era, the ranch now offers more Indigenous exhibits.

Highway 99 to Whistler

The route from Lillooet south to Whistler via Pemberton on Highway 99 is one of my favourite drives. It’s a high mountain route with lots of steep hills and curves. But the scenery is incredible. It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from Lillooet to Whistler.

The first part of the is along the steep Duffey Lake Road. There are lots of pullouts where you can enjoy views of the mountains and Duffey Lake.

If you want to go for a beautiful hike, stop at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. The three turquoise glacier lakes make this the most popular hike in BC, so you need to get a free day-use pass online to hike here. I’ve got more details about passes and the hike in my Joffre Lakes guide.

Past Joffre Lakes, you’ll go through Pemberton. The town itself is small, but cute, and the surrounding farmlands are gorgeous. I recommend stopping at North Arm Farm for produce and One Mile Lake for a walk or a swim. If you’re hungry, I recommend Mount Currie Coffee or The Pony.

Whistler is about 30 minutes past Pemberton. There are tons of things to do in Whistler, from hiking to sightseeing and shopping. I live nearby, so I’ve got a huge guide to Whistler.

If you want to continue on to Vancouver from Whistler, it’s another 2 hours via the gorgeous Sea to Sky Highway. Be sure to stop in Squamish along the way. It has great hiking, sightseeing, and a cute downtown. (But I’m a bit biased because I live here.)

Where to Eat in the Fraser Canyon

If you’re looking for fine dining in the Fraser Canyon, you will be disappointed. However, there are lots of great casual restaurants run by enterprising locals. Hope has the most (and best) restaurants, but there are a few other places in the canyon also worth checking out.

Hope

I’ve been stopping at the Blue Moose on Wallace Street in downtown Hope for years. They are open early for breakfast, make great coffee and pastries, and have lots of sandwich options for lunch. Their paninis are great, and while their banh mi isn’t authentic, it’s pretty good.

Another perennial favourite for us is Home Restaurant. This is the ultimate diner with a big pie case at the entrance. They serve breakfast all day, and their dinner menu includes diner classics like meatloaf, liver, and schnitzel. I usually get the triple-decker clubhouse sandwich.

On my most recent trip, we discovered Hope Mountain Cafe, kitty corner to Blue Moose. Their breakfast sandwich is great. We also had lunch there. The prosciutto, mozza, and tomato sandwich had an amazing balsamic glaze.

We also discovered Nomad So.cial Eatery recently. It’s a bit more upscale without being fussy. I had hoped to order their salmon wellington, but they were sold out! Instead, I had a great steak salad.

If you’re into craft beer, you need to go to Mountainview Brewing Co. Their tasting room has a big glass wall so you can look into the brewery while you eat. In addition to flights of housemade craft beer, they also make some of the best smash burgers I’ve had.

Boston Bar

There aren’t that many restaurants in the heart of the Fraser Canyon, but we were pleasantly surprised by JB’s Drive-In in Boston Bar. It’s a pretty basic diner on the side of the highway, but the food was fast and pretty good. Since the owners are Indian, I had to try the samosas. They were really good with a wonderful crispy exterior.

Lytton

While Lytton rebuilds, there aren’t any restaurants in town. However, if you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping at Kumsheen Rafting just outside of town. The coffee bar inside their office is open from April to September and has cold drinks, baked goods, coffee, and great homemade sandwiches.

Lillooet

If you’re in Lillooet, you have to stop at Abundance Artisan Bakery. They are open for breakfast and lunch. I love their sandwiches and baked goods. It’s also worth picking up a loaf of their organic sourdough to take home.

On my last trip, we had dinner at Lillooet Brewing Company. They are tucked away at the north end of town, so I didn’t even know they were there – apparently they’ve been open since 2022! Their tasting room and picnic area have incredible views of the Fraser River. Their pizza and beer are also pretty tasty, and there is a vegan food truck outside too.

Where to Stay in the Fraser Canyon

Thanks to its legacy as the main travel route from the BC Interior to Vancouver, there are tons of older hotels in the Fraser Canyon. Many of them are showing their age, but there are a few gems.

Windsor Motel: I spent two nights at this recently renovated hotel in Hope. It is basic, but super clean and affordable. The location in downtown Hope made it easy to walk to shopping and dinner. Plus, it was quiet at night. Check prices.

Evergreen Bed & Breakfast: I’ve heard great things about this cute family-run B&B in Hope. People rave about their breakfast. Check prices.

Kumsheen Rafting Resort: I arrived early for my river rafting trip, so I walked around their campground just outside of Lytton. They have really cute teepees and glamping tents with real beds and amazing Fraser River views. I would definitely stay here next time I’m in the area. Check prices.

Fraser Canyon Basics

In this section, I’ve got practicalities for taking a road trip through the Fraser Canyon. It includes getting there, the best time to go, weather, what to pack, and more.

How to Get to the Fraser Canyon

If you’re in Vancouver, getting to the bottom of the Fraser Canyon at Hope is easy: you just drive east on Highway 1 for about 1.5 hours.

You can also get to the Lytton side of the Fraser Canyon by driving west on Highway 1 from Kamloops for about 2 hours.

There is no public transportation in the Fraser Canyon, so you will need to drive yourself if you want to explore this area. The easiest places nearby to rent a car are Vancouver and Kamloops. I like to use DiscoverCars to book car rentals since the site lets you compare prices across different rental companies.

Keep in mind that legally, your car must have winter tires or chains to drive the Fraser Canyon between October 1 and March 31.

Driving the Fraser Canyon is fairly straightforward. The road has a few steep hills and lots of curves, but is otherwise pretty easy to navigate. Keep in mind that there are few passing lanes, so if you are driving slowly to enjoy the views, move over when you can to let others pass. Driving through the tunnels is a real highlight too!

Best Time to Go

The Fraser Canyon is at a relatively low elevation and doesn’t get that much snow, so you can visit year-round. However, some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours in the winter, and when it does snow, the roads can be terrible.

The best time to go is May through September. You could also visit anytime between mid-March and the end of October to avoid snow.

Unless you are visiting in the middle of the summer, avoid going mid-week as some businesses are only open on weekends. Check opening hours of all attractions you want to visit ahead of time.

If you visit in the fall, you can witness the spectacular salmon run as spawning salmon fight their way upstream through the rapids of the Fraser River to their natal streams.

How Long to Spend

The drive from Hope to Lytton is only 1.5 hours, and you can add on another hour if you want to continue up the canyon to Lillooet. It’s fairly easy to explore the highlights of the Fraser Canyon in just one day.

However, I recommend spending at least one night in the area so you can see everything without feeling rushed. On my most recent visit, we spent two nights in Hope to really slow down our pace.

Fraser Canyon Weather

The weather really varies in the Fraser Canyon as you work your way from the rainforests of Hope in the south to the deserts of Lytton and Lillooet in the north.

The Fraser Canyon is one of the hottest and driest parts of BC, so expect higher temperatures than the surrounding regions. Lytton regularly sets BC records as the hottest town in the province.

In the summer months of June, July, and August, the average temperature in Hope is 13°C to 24°C. In the spring and fall, it drops to 5°C to 18°C. July and August are the driest months in Hope. October through May can be very wet.

By contrast, Lytton is much hotter and drier than Hope. The average summer temperature is 15°C to 28°C, but many days see temps up to the high 30s. (It was 38°C when I went river rafting in Lytton!) Spring and fall in Lytton are a bit warmer than Hope, with temps between 4°C and 23°C. It’s also much drier, with about half as many rainy days as Hope gets and far less overall precipitation.

What to Pack For the Fraser Canyon

The towns of the Fraser Canyon are VERY laid back, so you don’t need to bring anything fancy. Casual wear is fine everywhere.

The summer heat here is no joke. Bring sunscreen and a sun hat. You should also pack a water bottle since it is easy to get dehydrated in the heat. I use a Hydro Flask bottle because it is insulated, so it keeps my water cold.

If you plan to hike, bring a small backpack, hiking shoes, and quick-dry clothing. I like to wear a long-sleeved sun hoodie since it means I don’t have to constantly reapply sunscreen. I’ve got a list of my favourite sun hoodies, but my top pick is the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake.

If you want to go swimming or whitewater rafting, bring all your beach stuff: swimsuit, towel, sandals, sun hat, etc.

If you are travelling in the canyon in hot summer weather, bring a cooler for water and snacks. Anything left in your car will get incredibly hot.

There are small stores and restaurants in Yale, Boston Bar, and a few other spots, but you may want to stock up on supplies in Hope, which has larger stores and more variety.

Cell Phone Service

It’s worth noting that while there is cell phone signal in most of the Fraser Canyon, there are a few places with dead spots. Download offline maps and other info before you leave so you can find your way.

There is good 5G service in Hope, Boston Bar, Lytton, and Lillooet. You’ll get ok LTE service in Yale and near Hell’s Gate Airtram. There are big dead zones with no service near Alexandra Bridge and on Highway 12 between Lytton and Lillooet.

Indigenous Context in the Fraser Canyon

The Fraser Canyon is the traditional territory of the Stó:lō, Nlaka’pamux, Stz’uminus, and St’at’imc Nations.

The Fraser Canyon was an important historical trade route for Indigenous people. As well, Indigenous people played an important role in guiding Europeans through the canyon during the Gold Rush of the 1850s and 1860s. Routes that the Indigenous people pioneered during that time went on to form today’s Highway 1 and adjacent railroads.

Today, these nations continue to live in the Fraser Canyon and practice their traditions and culture. It is important to be respectful of Indigenous lands, culture, and traditions when you visit and to respect private property on the many Reserves sprinkled up and down the canyon.

If you want to learn more about Indigenous culture, visit Tuckkwiowhum Heritage Village near Boston Bar. It’s run by the Nlaka’pamux Nation and has lots of self-guided outdoor exhibits.

Final Thoughts

Even though it is longer than the Coquihalla, I’ve always loved driving through the Fraser Canyon instead. It’s a slower, less frenetic pace, and the scenery is great. However, after my most recent trip, I regret not spending more time there sooner.

I knew that the area was long past its prime since its lustre had faded since the Gold Rush and certainly since the Coquihalla Highway opened in the 1980s. But now that I’ve really explored, I think that is part of its charm. It’s old and gritty and authentic. It’s not tarted up to be shiny and happy for tourists. And there’s something special about that.

I’m sure I’ll be taking a Fraser Canyon road trip again soon. There are still a few hikes I haven’t done yet!

Do you have questions about the Fraser Canyon? Ask in the comments and I’ll help you out.

MORE BC ROAD TRIPS:

• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• Pacific Marine Circle Route Road Trip Guide
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

The post 10 Things to Do on a Fraser Canyon Road Trip appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

With opportunities to explore some of the nation’s most beautiful national parks, view incredible wildlife, and see some of the coolest and most unique natural features, driving your own car or taking a rental gives you plenty of chances to experience new places.

Dawn Outdoors Contributor Kassidy lived in Washington for six months. She spent nearly every weekend out exploring so she has visited almost all of these places! In this post, she will share her favorites so you can plan your own road trip through Washington.

This list of the best Washington road trips includes:

• 9 Washington road trip ideas from all over the state
• The best time to visit Washington: What months are best?
• How many days do you need for a Washington road trip?
• Tips for road trips in Washington including info on driving, cell phones, hotel booking, and more.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Best Washington Road Trip Ideas

1. Olympic Peninsula

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 7+ days

As one of the most diverse areas of Washington, taking a road trip around the Olympic Peninsula will have you feeling like you’ve been transported from one state to another.

Olympic National Park makes up the peninsula that sits in the far northwestern corner of Washington. It’s home to the only temperate rainforest in the United States, endless miles of ocean coastline, and a snow-capped mountain range.

With parks of the park at sea level and others high up in the mountains, the best time to visit Olympic National Park is… year-round. (The season will influence which part of the park you can visit.)

Starting in Seattle, loop down towards Olympia and begin to make your way up towards Port Angeles. This is where you’ll really start to get into the park.

Start your visit to the Olympic Peninsula at Hurricane Ridge, where you can enjoy views of the Olympic Mountain Range. The Hurricane Hill hike leaves from the visitor center and is a paved trail that leads to a phenomenal viewpoint.

Next, spend some time by Lake Crescent, and if you’re brave enough, make the tough climb to Mount Storm King. I love packing up a hiking lunch and enjoying it at the top of Mount Storm King. Then visit Sol Duc Falls and the Sol Duc Hot Springs for a relaxing evening.

On your next day, stop into the small town of Forks, which was the inspiration for the famous Twilight movie series. Then make your way to the many beaches that line the western edge of the Olympic Peninsula. Ruby and Rialto Beaches are some of the best, as are the Kalaloch Beaches, where you’ll find the Tree of Life. You can also take a backpacking trip to the Ozette Triangle, Shi Shi Beach, or Toleak Point.

Lastly, visit the Hoh Rainforest, which is one of the only rainforests in the country. It’s very beautiful, and there are several trails that you can hike to get up close and personal to the unique environment.

Where to Stay on the Olympic Peninsula

Port Angeles: Book a stay at the Olympic Lodge by Ayres. It’s a modern hotel with decor that hearkens back to the classic National Park lodge style. It’s an easy drive to Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent from here. Check rates.

Lake Crescent: Built in 1916, the historic Lake Crescent Lodge includes cabins and hotel rooms. Most have an incredible view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Check rates.

Sol Duc Hot Springs: The best way to experience the springs is to stay at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. They have cute cabins on the same property as the hot springs. Check rates.

Forks: Stay in the heart of the rainforest at the Misty Valley Inn. This cute B&B has a great deck for soaking up the sun. Check rates.

2. North Cascades Highway

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 4+ days

One of the most beautiful and underrated national parks in the entire country can be found right in Washington state. And with a road trip along the North Cascades Highway, you can experience the entire thing!

Starting in Seattle, make your way north towards Highway 20. This highway closes regularly in the winter months due to heavy snowfall, so be sure to squeeze this road trip in during the summer or fall! Once you’ve made it onto the highway, you’ll drive for a bit before you start to see the views. But once you start to see them, they’ll never end!

The small town of Marblemount marks the real entrance into the park and where you’ll start getting into some windier roads. From here, there will be plenty of stops to pull off and enjoy the views of embark on a hike.

Diablo Lake is one of the best stopping points, as well as the Washington Pass Overlook. Both of these can be reached right off Highway 20.

As for hiking trails, Blue Lake and Maple Pass Loop are two of the best. Blue Lake is one of the best beginner friendly hikes in Washington, so it’s great for all skill levels! Other great options include Thunder Knob, Sahale Arm, Cutthroat Pass, and the East Bank Trail along Ross Lake.

It’s worth continuing past the eastern boundary of North Cascades National Park to the tiny town of Winthrop. It has a fun Western theme along with lots of cute shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Overall, the North Cascades Highway road trip is the perfect trip for those who love hiking and are looking for a way to disconnect from the outside world on their road trip in Washington.

Where to Stay on the North Cascades Highway

Marblemount: Stay at the historic North Cascades Inn, opened in 1889. It’s an easy jumping-off point for drives into North Cascades National Park. Check rates.

Diablo Lake: Camp in the heart of the National Park at Colonial Creek Campground, situated on the shores of Diablo Lake. You can hike right from your campsite. Check rates.

Winthrop: The Methow River Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: You get a cute cabin along the river with a wilderness feel, and the shops and restaurants of “downtown” Winthrop are just a 10-minute walk away. Check rates.

3. Mount Baker Highway

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 3+ days

If you’ve already visited North Cascades National Park or are looking for somewhere even less visited, then planning a trip to the Mount Baker Highway is a must. This is my favorite area in all of Washington.

You’ll drive north of Seattle towards Bellingham and almost into Canada. If you have extra time, drop into Bellingham. The quaint downtown has several great craft breweries. If you visit on a Saturday, be sure to stop at the farmer’s market.

After Bellingham, your route turns inland towards the Deming area. From here, you’ll head east on Mount Baker Highway to start exploring this beautiful stretch of land.

Most of this road trip is in Mount Baker National Forest. But it’s worth a stop in the town of Glacier before you get into the forest. It has a great brewery as well as a few restaurants and hotels.

There’s a lot to explore along this highway, and you’ll start to see views of the Cascade Range and Mount Baker not too long after you start the drive. But the closer you get to the end of the road, the better the views get.

This road trip could be great year-round, as long as you keep an eye on the road conditions. You won’t be able to do hikes in the winter, but Mount Baker does have a popular ski area.

In summer, check out all of the amazing hikes including Artist Point, Chain Lakes Loop, Lake Ann, and Bagley Lakes. I highly recommend walking to Artist Point, even if that means walking on the road for a short time. It’s so beautiful and a one-of-a-kind view!

You’ll also want to make a stop at Picture Lake, one of the most picturesque lakes you’ll ever see. The Mount Baker Highway dead-ends at Artist Point, so retrace your route back to Seattle once you’ve finished admiring the views.

Where to Stay on the Mount Baker Highway

Bellingham: Stay within walking distance of everything at Hotel Leo. Most of the rooms are pretty big and while the hotel is older, the decor and amenities are very modern. Check rates.

Glacier: This time town is full of adorable rental cabins. The Charming Cedar Chalet is nestled into the rainforest. The best part? The wooden outdoor hot tub! Check rates.

Mount Baker National Forest: Immerse yourself in the wilderness by reserving a campsite at the Silver Fir or Douglas Fir Campgrounds. Check rates.

4. Eastern Washington

Starting Point: Spokane

Time Needed: 4+ days

When people think of road-tripping Washington, they often forget about the eastern half of the state. But there is so much to see here that is overlooked and forgotten about!

Starting in Spokane, plan your trip to explore Eastern Washington. Head south towards Palouse Falls to start. This massive waterfall is one worth seeing. It’s Washington’s state waterfall, which is saying a lot being that there are so many of them!

As you head north, check to see if any events are happening at The Gorge Amphitheater in Quincy. This unique concert venue has hosted hundreds of shows and has a stunning backdrop for music.

As you head north, it’s worth making a detour to Lake Chelan. Take the foot-passenger ferry down the lake to Stehekin, a unique town surrounded by North Cascades National Park. It makes a fun day trip or a longer excursion to access some incredible hiking.

Then make your way up to Coulee City to visit Steamboat Rock State Park. This unique and beautiful park is a must-see. I loved it more than I thought I would because it’s such an interesting area. I also really loved that it’s so much less busy than Western Washington.

You can also then visit the Grand Coulee Dam before finishing your loop road trip back to Spokane. The dam is the largest producer of hydroelectricity in the United States!

Where to Stay in Eastern Washington

The Gorge: The gorgeous Sagecliffe Resort & Spa has incredible views from both the main hotel building and the private cliffhouse cottages. Check rates.

Lake Chelan: Stay in wine country near the shores of Lake Chelan at the Lakeside Lodge and Suites. Check rates.

Steamboat Rock State Park: Book a rustic cabin or campsite at Steamboat Rock State Park. You can hike right from your site or walk over to Banks Lake for a swim. Check rates.

5. Mount Rainier National Park

Starting Point: Seattle or Portland

Time Needed: 5+ days

Perhaps the most popular national park in Washington is Mount Rainier. This could be because it’s the tallest mountain in the state and it dominates the Seattle skyline for everyone to see.

A road trip to Mount Rainier National Park is a great way to explore Washington’s natural beauty. Starting from either Seattle or Portland, Oregon, head towards the national park.

Starting with Paradise, which is on the southern side of the mountain, you’ll explore the area around Paradise Inn. This is also the perfect place to stay for your visit.

From the inn, you can visit Myrtle Falls and take the ever-popular Skyline Loop Trail for some of the most amazing views of the mountain. Be sure to check the weather before going to Paradise, because when we went, it was so foggy we couldn’t even see the mountain.

After spending time in Paradise, follow Stevens Canyon Road through Ohanapecosh towards Sunrise. Stop at Reflection Lake and the many overlooks on the way. If you need supplies or a place to stay, take a detour down Highway 123 and then Highway 12 to the town of Packwood.

At Sunrise, embark on the Mount Fremont Fire Lookout Trail. This hike gives you incredible, unobstructed views of Mount Rainier.

For a few more added days in a less busy area, head to Carbon River and Mowich Lake. You’ll find far fewer people on this side of the park, but the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout is a must and will complete your trip to Mount Rainier. 

Where to Stay at Mount Rainier

Paradise Area: The historic Paradise Inn is over 100 years old and lets you stay right in the heart of the park. The log-beamed atrium is stunning! Check rates.

Ohanapecosh Area: Located roughly halfway between Paradise and Sunrise, the Ohanapecosh Campground is a great base for exploring the park. Check rates.

Packwood: Choose from hotel-style rooms or self-contained cabins with kitchens at the Packwood Lodge and Cabins. They have an on-site restaurant too. Check rates.

6. I-90 and Highway 2 Loop

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 5+ days

There’s a lot to explore in Northern Washington, and by putting together a loop by combining the I-90 and Highway 2 drives, you’ll create one epic road trip.

Start in Seattle and begin by driving east on I-90. You’ll quickly start coming across places to stop, beginning with North Bend. Here you’ll find trailheads for some of the most popular hikes near Seattle; Rattlesnake Ledge, Twin Falls, and Mount Si. If you’re looking for a short hike, walk the 1.4-mile trail to Snoqualmie Falls. (You might recognize it from the TV show Twin Peaks!)

As you continue along the road, you’ll drive by Snoqualmie Pass. This is a ski resort in the winter, and a great place to do some hiking throughout the rest of the year.

Even if you aren’t a hiker, the views along this route are beautiful, and you’ll find that it’s still worth it! Plus, the many short trails and parks allow for easy walks to viewpoints. The 2-mile hike to Franklin Falls is one of the most popular.

Continue along past Cle Elum and you’ll come to the small town of Thorp, which is where you’ll turn onto Highway 97 towards Leavenworth. Once you’ve made it to the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, turn west onto Highway 2 and spend some time in the small town.

Leavenworth is a gateway to some of the best hiking in the state, including the challenging trek to the Enchantments or the family-friendly Icicle Gorge Trail.

As you continue on the road, you’ll come across another ski resort, Stevens Pass, and many more trailheads for popular hiking trails. You can stop at any of them along your way before making it back to Seattle. Try the Iron Goat Trail, which takes you along an old railroad grade and through several abandoned tunnels.

Where to Stay on the I-90 and Highway 2 Loop

North Bend: There are tons of adorable cabins near North Bend. The Riverbend Retreat A-Frame has indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a sunroom with river views, and cute rustic-meets-modern decor. Check rates.

Cle Elum: Located just a few minutes away from Snoqualmie Pass, the Best Western Snowcap Lodge is a hiker’s favourite thanks to the included breakfast. Check rates.

Leavenworth: Immerse yourself in the town’s German theme at the Bavarian Lodge. The hotel’s decor and food (including the free breakfast) will transport you to the Bavarian Alps. Check rates.

Stevens Pass: Stay at a ski cabin in Skykomish, a few minutes from Stevens Pass. Foss Haus A-Frame has huge windows that look out on the surrounding forest. There’s also an outdoor hot tub on the huge deck. Check rates.

7. Columbia River Gorge

Starting Point: Portland

Time Needed: 3+ days

Although many people think of the Columbia River Gorge being more so in Oregon, there is plenty to explore on the Washington side as well.

Starting from the Vancouver area just outside of Portland, you can make your way down the shore of the Columbia River and stop off at all of the best hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Cape Horn Lookout is one of the first viewpoints to stop off at, and you can also complete the hike here. But it is a pretty long hike.

Beacon Rock and Hamilton Mountain come next, followed shortly by Dog Mountain. This hike is one of the most popular, particularly in the springtime with the alpine wildflowers begin to bloom and create a sea of yellow and purple.

Continue up the Gorge past the Bridge of the Gods and the town of Stevenson. Spirit Falls is one of my favorite hidden gems along this Washington road trip, and Coyote Wall is another beautiful option that is lesser known. These are two of my favorite spots near Portland, and there are often fewer visitors on both of them!

If you have extra time, you can cross the Hood River Bridge that leads from White Salmon to Hood River and spend some time exploring the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge.

Where to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge

Stevenson: The recently renovated Hotel Stevenson is a family-run boutique hotel. It gets great reviews for its quaint and cozy rooms. Check rates.

Beacon Rock State Park: Book a campsite at Beacon Rock State Park in the heart of the gorge. It’s a great base for lots of hiking trails. Check rates.

Carson Hot Springs Resort: Take a short detour up into the mountains and step back in time. The same family has run the bathhouse and hotel at Carson Hot Springs Resort for generations. Check rates.

White Salmon: There are tons of great vacation rentals in the Columbia River Gorge. The Perched on the Edge of the Gorge House has incredible views and a private hot tub. Check rates.

8. Highway 2 and the North Cascades Highway

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 5+ days

Another way to experience Highway 2 and the North Cascades Highway is to put them together as one long road trip in Washington. Starting in Seattle, begin the trip by driving east on Highway 2 towards Leavenworth.

Make stops along the way as you see fit at places like Heybrook Lookout, Lake Serene, and Wallace Falls. Be sure to spend some time in Leavenworth before continuing to the small towns of Orondo and Chelan. From here, head north until you’ve made it to Highway 20.

Once you’ve made it onto Highway 20, you’ll quickly make your way into North Cascades National Park. You’ll be going the opposite way that most people do, which is nice because there will typically be less traffic!

Stop and explore the hundreds of hiking trails throughout the park and add on some of the hikes that I mentioned above.

This is a great way to experience two of Washington’s best scenic drives, all in one trip.

Where to Stay on Highway 2 and the North Cascades Highway

Leavenworth: Immerse yourself in the town’s German theme at the Bavarian Lodge. The hotel’s decor and food (including the free breakfast) will transport you to the Bavarian Alps. Check rates.

Lake Chelan: Stay in wine country near the shores of Lake Chelan at the Lakeside Lodge and Suites. Check rates.

Winthrop: The Methow River Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: You get a cute cabin along the river with a wilderness feel, and the shops and restaurants of “downtown” Winthrop are just a 10-minute walk away. Check rates.

Diablo Lake: Camp in the heart of the National Park at Colonial Creek Campground, situated on the shores of Diablo Lake. You can hike right from your campsite. Check rates.

9. Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainer

Starting Point: Seattle or Portland

Time Needed: 5+ days

Washington has many mountains that bring in visitors from all over, but two of the most popular are Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. By taking this road trip, you can see both of them in one go!

Plan to start in either Seattle or Portland and head out for your first day of exploring. 

For Mount St. Helens, visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory to learn more about the 1980 eruption of the active volcano. Many hikes from here lead you into the blast zone to see the devastating damage.

Mount St. Helens is my favorite mountain in Washington, and I find that many people forget about it. So if you want fewer crowds, I would plan a trip here!

Another must-see near Mount St. Helens is Ape Cave, which is one of the country’s longest lava tubes. You can walk underground through the cave, which is quite unique.

Then head to Mount Rainier to see Washington’s tallest mountain. Here you can check out more hikes, like the Skyline Loop and Tolmie Peak Lookout.

Where to Stay at Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier

Longview: The town of Longview is a great base for trips to Mount St. Helen’s. Book a room at the top-rated Best Western Aladdin Inn which has a great breakfast and friendly staff. Check rates.

Mount Rainier: The historic Paradise Inn is over 100 years old and lets you stay right in the heart of the park. The log-beamed atrium is stunning! Check rates.

Best Time to Visit Washington State

While Washington is beautiful year-round, there is a best time to visit to ensure that you avoid being met with closed roads and snow-covered trails.

It’s best to plan your visit to Washinton between June and September. This is when there is the least chance for snow and road closures. It’s also when the weather is the warmest.

However, no mountains are immune to snow in the summer, so always check road conditions before traveling to avoid disappointment!

How Many Days Do I Need For a Washington Road Trip?

How many days you’ll need to complete these trips will depend on which route you’re choosing to take. Some only need 3 days, while others might need a full week.

I’d personally recommend having a full week to explore almost all of them so you can fully experience the most, but if you only have a few days, select one of the routes that requires less time.

Tips for Road Trips in Washington State

• The easiest places to rent a car for your Washington road trip are Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac), downtown Seattle, Portland International Airport, and downtown Portland. I use Discover Cars because it lets me compare prices across different rental companies.
• If you like exploring, I recommend renting an SUV so you can drive on bumpy forest service roads. But you can drive any of these road trips in Washington in a regular car.
• In the summer, hotels in popular locations get booked up. Make reservations in advance.
• Washington’s mountains make it tough to get cell phone reception in some places. Expect to lose reception in parts of the Olympic Peninsula, the North Cascades, and near Mount Rainier.
• Keep in mind that Washington has strict cell phone laws for drivers. It is illegal to use a phone to talk or text while driving including when you are stopped in traffic or at a red light. You can use your phone in hands-free mode via Bluetooth though.
• Washington has a great network of highway rest areas. You will never have to drive too far without passing one. They all have free (and usually clean) restrooms). Some have free coffee supplied by local volunteers (who welcome donations).
• Seattle weekend traffic is real! If you can, avoid driving out of the city on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. And avoid driving back into the city on Sunday afternoons.

From towering mountains to rugged coastline and beautiful views, Washington State is the perfect place to plan a road trip. Pack up the campervan, your own car, or a rental car and embark on some of the best Washington road trips to truly appreciate this beautiful state.

Thanks to Kassidy for sharing this gorgeous guide to the best Washington road trips. You can read more about Kassidy’s adventures on her website, the Hiking Helper.

READ NEXT:

• 2023 Washington Backpacking Reservation Dates
• Ozette Loop Hiking and Backpacking Guide
• Shi Shi Beach Hiking and Camping Guide
• How to Hike and Camp at Toleak Point in Olympic National Park
• Hike the East Bank Trail in North Cascades National Park

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