sales Archives - Dawn Outdoors https://dawnoutdoors.com/tag/sales/ Sharing advice, info and inspiration about my happy place: the Great Outdoors. Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:18:30 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://happiestoutdoors.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/cropped-favicon@3x-32x32.png sales Archives - Dawn Outdoors https://dawnoutdoors.com/tag/sales/ 32 32 2025 Black Friday Deals for Hikers https://dawnoutdoors.com/black-friday-deals-for-hikers/ https://dawnoutdoors.com/black-friday-deals-for-hikers/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:16:38 +0000 https://dawnoutdoors.com/?p=4845 I definitely believe that the outdoors is for everyone, but unfortunately one of the barriers to getting outside is having to buy tons of gear. And of course, that gear doesn’t come cheap! I worked at the head office of a big outdoor retailer for six years, so I understand the seasonal sales cycle. One …

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]]> I definitely believe that the outdoors is for everyone, but unfortunately one of the barriers to getting outside is having to buy tons of gear. And of course, that gear doesn’t come cheap!

I worked at the head office of a big outdoor retailer for six years, so I understand the seasonal sales cycle. One of my tried and true tips for getting deals on hiking and backpacking gear is to wait for sales. So of course in the run-up to the holidays, I’m always watching for Black Friday deals for hikers.

This year I’ve complied all the Black Friday deals for hikers together into one giant post so you can view them all at a glance. I’ve also provided my picks for the best gear from each of the sales and some tips on how to make sure it is really is a good deal.

This page was updated with the latest deals on December 1, 2025

This post includes:

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

HEY CANADIANS: Join the Canadian Hiking Gear Deals Facebook group for the latest sales and discounts on hiking gear in Canada

When are the Sales?

Some retailers have started to run Pre-Black Friday Sales in early November.

In 2025, Black Friday is on Friday November 28th. Look for lots of sales to start the week before and continue through the weekend. (Black Friday is now turning into Black Friday Week and Black Friday Weekend!)

Cyber Monday happens on the Monday immediately after Black Friday. In 2025, Cyber Monday is Monday December 1st.

Lots of outdoor brands also have general holiday sales throughout December and into the new year. I’ve got details on those below too.

The Deals

Here’s my running list of all the Black Friday and holiday sales on hiking and backpacking gear that I know about from American and Canadian retailers. I’ll keep them updated every day during the holiday shopping season. If you hear of other great deals, let me know in the comments and I’ll add them.

Note: Many of these retailers ship to both countries, but keep check shipping costs, duties, tariffs, and exchange rates carefully before you buy.

Canadian Deals

All Canadian Deals are in Canadian dollars and ship from Canada without additional duties or tariffs.

AllTrails

Black Friday: 50% off All Trails Plus – ends Dec 3

Altitude Sports

Black Friday Deals – Up to 50% off Sea to Summit, The North Face, Smartwool, and more

Altitude Sports is running so many good deals that I’ve got a dedicated post: 2025 Altitude Sports Black Friday Sale: My Picks for the Best Deals

Amazon Canada

Black Friday Deals – Up to 40% off

Arc’teryx Canada

Black Friday Sale: Up to 30% off this season’s gear

Outlet Cyber Week: Take an extra 20% off already discounted gear. Ends Dec 1.

Athleta Canada

Black Friday – 30% or more off almost everything

Backroad Map Books

Black Friday Sale: 15% off almost everything

Bass Pro/Cabela’s Canada

Black Friday Sale: Up to 50% off. Ends Dec 3.

Columbia Canada

Black Friday: Almost everything on sale + 50% off top deals

evo Canada

Black Friday sale – up to 60% off

Gaia GPS

Black Friday Sale: 30% off Gaia GPS Premium – I use this GPS app since it’s so much better than AllTrails for advanced navigation, especially off-trail. I also like their slope angle layer for assessing avalanche terrain. This is their only sale of the year. 

Gear Trade

Black November – new items on sale daily from brands like Gossamer Gear and Hyperlite. Ends Dec 1

Helly Hansen Canada

Black Friday: 25% off site-wide

50% off past-season gear

lululemon Canada

Black Friday – Up to 50% off

MEC

Black Friday – Up to 50% off

Mountain Hardwear Canada

Holiday Sale: 20% off

Mountain Warehouse Canada

Black Friday – 50% or more off everything. Ends Dec 9.

Nomad Nutrition

Black Friday – 40% off all backpacking meals with code BFCM2025

Outdoor Research Canada

Holiday Deals: 25% off sitewide – use code HOLIDAYDEALS. Ends Dec 1.

Rad Power Bikes Canada

Black Friday: Up to $500 off electric bikes

SAIL

Black Friday: Up to 50% off

Sea to Summit Canada

Black Friday: 40 to 50% off

Smartwool Canada

Black Friday: 25% off. Ends Dec 2.

The Last Hunt

Cyber Week: Up to 80% off everything – ends Dec 7. Extra 20% off over $200 with code 20FOR200.

ThermoWorks

Shop in USD or CAD. Offers shipping to Canada and ThermoWorks pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday: 20% off site wide

Valhalla Pure Outfitters

Black Friday: Up to 60% off

.

American Deals

American deals are from American retailers. Where possible, I’ve included info on whether you can shop in CAD and if they ship to Canada.

AllTrails

Black Friday: 50% off All Trails Plus – ends Dec 3

Amazon USA

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on most items but it’s easier to order from Amazon Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Backcountry

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on a limited number of items. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Sale – Up to 70% off tons of big brands

Black Diamond

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on most items and BD pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday: Up to 70% off. Ends Dec 1.

Branwyn

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on most items and Branwyn pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Annual Holiday Sale: 25% off sitewide. Ends Dec 1.

Cabela’s USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Bass Pro/Cabela’s Canada.

Black Friday Weekend – Up to 50% off

Columbia USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Columbia Canada.

Black Friday: Almost everything on sale. Up to 50% off some items.

Cotopaxi USA

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday – 25% off select gear and apparel

Enlightened Equipment

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Sale

  • 20% off all in-stock gear
  • 20% off custom down and synthetic quilts

evo USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from evo Canada.

Black Friday Sale – Up to 60% off

Garage Grown Gear

Shop in USD or CAD. Ships to Canada but orders are subject to duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Holiday Sale: 10 to 30% off

Gregory

Shop in USD. Does not ship to Canada.

Black Friday: 25% off sitewide.

Gossamer Gear

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Gossamer Gear Canada to shop in CAD – but orders on the Canadian site are still subject to duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Holiday deals – up to 30% off.

Helinox

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Helinox Canada.

Black Friday: 35% off sitewide. Ends Dec 8.

Kelty

Shop in USD. Does not ship to Canada.

Black Friday Sale – 25% off side wide

Mountain Hardwear USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Mountain Hardwear Canada.

Holiday Sale: 20% off

MSR

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from MSR Canada.

Holiday Sale: 25% off snowshoes, stoves, and more

Osprey

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Osprey Canada.

Winter Sale: Up to 40% off. Ends Dec 1.

Outdoor Research

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Outdoor Research Canada.

Holiday Deals: 25% off sitewide – use code HOLIDAYDEALS. Ends Dec 1.

Platypus

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Platypus Canada.

Holiday Sale: 25% off all water filters

prAna

Shop in USD. Does not offer shipping to Canada.

Holiday Must-Haves: 30% off sitewide. Ends Dec 1.

Rad Power Bikes

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Rad Power Bikes Canada.

Black Friday: Deals starting at $999

Six Moon Designs

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Sale: Save 25% on shelters, packs, umbrellas and more with code YULEHIKE

Steep and Cheap

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on some items. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Big Brands Sale: Up to 60% off

Therm-a-Rest

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Therm-a-rest Canada.

Holiday Sale: 25% off sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and pillows

ThermoWorks

Shop in USD or CAD. Offers shipping to Canada and ThermoWorks pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday: 20% off site wide

Zenbivy

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Deals available for their email subscribers only

Retailers Who Don’t Do Black Friday

A few brands have pushed back on the consumerism around Black Friday and don’t have Black Friday sales.

Patagonia and Patagonia Canada

Patagonia’s website says: “Black Friday is a frenzy of deep discounts, limited-time offers and last-ditch efforts urging you to “save” by spending more. We’re not doing that.” It goes on to explain that they are committed to making durable gear and encouraging repairing gear rather than buying new.

REI

REI’s website says: “Since 2015, we’ve closed our doors on Black Friday, choosing time outside over the busiest in-store shopping day of the year.” However, they do have a sale each year in mid-November called the Holiday Sale.

What Gear is on Sale?

There are two main types of products offered at a discount for Black Friday and Boxing Day: stuff that is discontinued and stuff that’s on sale just for the holidays.

Discontinued Gear

Most of the hiking gear that is on sale is usually colors or styles that will be discontinued next year. Retailers want to clear this stuff out so they’ll have room for next year’s gear. In November and December you will usually find the dregs of last summer’s gear on deep discounts.

You might also find winter gear like jackets on sale. Typically winter gear goes on sale this early if the retailer bought too much and they aren’t selling that well. The main things you’ll find in this category are clothing and footwear since they change every year.

Seasonal Sales

The other type is just regular priced product that is selling just fine, but the retailer decides to mark-it down for a limited time to bring in extra sales. The retailer is making less profit on these products but they hope that you’ll buy more stuff and boost their overall sales.

Tents, backpacks, stoves, headlamps and other non-clothing gear is what you’ll find in this category. Since this kind of gear rarely goes on sale otherwise, Black Friday and Boxing Day are the best time to find deals on hiking and backpacking gear.

Are Black Friday Sales Worse Than They Used to Be?

If you’re over 25 you might remember that Black Friday sales used to have insane prices: Doorbuster deals for 70% off were common. But if you’re looking at the current deals listed on this page, you’ll notice most of them are are 20% or 30% off. What happened?

Those day of insane Black Friday discounts are over for a few reasons. The main one is that Black Friday shopping has shifted from in-person to online. Those 70% off doorbuster deals were loss leaders (offered at below cost) designed to get people to come into the store. Once in the store, retailers hoped you people would buy other things with more modest discounts.

Today, Black Friday is almost entirely online. And the way we shop is different. We spend lots of time comparing prices between sites and choosing the exact thing we want. We don’t go to a store and impulse buy something because its 70% off.

Most e-commerce retailers aren’t willing to do limited-time doorbuster-style deals online because they don’t have the tech set-up to do it or they are worried about their site crashing. Going offline during Black Friday would be a disaster for them!

It’s also worth noting that it only seems like Black Friday sales aren’t as good as they used to be. Yes, we don’t have those crazy 70% off doorbusters anymore. But the rest of the deals we get now are pretty comparable to the ones we used to see back then if we got past the doorbusters and explored what else was on sale.

What’s the Deal with Boxing Day?

Some of you might be old enough to remember a time where Black Friday wasn’t a thing in Canada. Instead, all of the big sales were on Boxing Day, which is the day after Christmas.

As online shopping rose and American influence become more prominent, retailers in Canada started to offer both Black Friday and Boxing Day sales. Black Friday sales were a way to get people shopping at the start of the holiday season and Boxing Day sales helped retailers get rid of extra stock they had hoped to sell during the holidays but didn’t.

However, I’ve noticed a big shift in Canada away from Boxing Day sales. You’ll still see a few Canadian retailers doing Boxing Day sales, but many do not. As well, the deals on Boxing Day don’t tend to be as good. Instead, most outdoor stores wait until the end of winter and then have a big sale.

All of that is to say, when it comes to outdoor gear, I think you’ll get the best deal when you buy on Black Friday or if you want for end of winter sales (usually in late March). Don’t hold on Black Friday thinking you’ll get a better deal on Boxing Day. That hasn’t been a helpful strategy for at least 15 years.

How to Make Sure You’re Getting a Good Deal

Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. Do your research before you buy. Make sure the gear you buy is the right size and works for your style of hiking or backpacking. Be sure to read reviews. Make sure you buy from companies with good return policies.

Some retailers will offer seemingly insane deals on gear from brands you’ve never heard of. Do your research. These are often knock-off brands that sell things super-cheap anyway.

The best Black Friday deals for hikers are on brand name gear that doesn’t usually go on sale otherwise. Be wary of deep discounts on last year’s gear – it likely was on sale before Black Friday. Save your money for the deals that are actually good – not the ones that just LOOK good.

Final Thoughts

I hope you found this list of the best Black Friday deals for hikers helpful. (And I hope you snag some sweet gear!) Have you spotted any other good Black Friday deals on hiking and backpacking gear? Tell me in the comments and I’ll add them to the list.

MORE GEAR POSTS:

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]]> https://dawnoutdoors.com/black-friday-deals-for-hikers/feed/ 4 23 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver https://dawnoutdoors.com/weekend-getaways-from-vancouver/ https://dawnoutdoors.com/weekend-getaways-from-vancouver/#comments Sat, 13 Jul 2024 22:08:17 +0000 https://dawnoutdoors.com/?p=8643 While Vancouver is a beautiful city with lots to offer, sometimes you just want to get out of town. Living here my whole life, I’ve been on more weekend trips from Vancouver than I can count. I’ve put together a great list of over 20 weekend getaways from Vancouver. There’s something for everyone on this …

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]]> While Vancouver is a beautiful city with lots to offer, sometimes you just want to get out of town. Living here my whole life, I’ve been on more weekend trips from Vancouver than I can count. I’ve put together a great list of over 20 weekend getaways from Vancouver.

There’s something for everyone on this list from city-breaks to beach town chill-outs, to adventurous mountain towns, to foodie destinations, to luxurious glamping.

Since, I’m an outdoorsy person, most of the trips have an adventure focus, but there are lots of options for less sweaty activities too. All of these trips are a few hours away, and some of them you can do without a car.

So here are my picks for the most beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver.

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

Map of Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

Here’s a custom Google Map I made for you. It shows all of these beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver, plus a few of the attractions, restaurants and attractions that I recommend.

Google Map showing options for weekend getaways from Vancouver
Click on the map to zoom in

Bowen Island

The lighthouse at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island, one of many great things to do on Bowen Island
The lighthouse at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island

Tiny Bowen Island is just minutes from Vancouver but feels worlds apart. This Howe Sound island is mostly forested, with lots of small beaches, which makes it a great place for kayaking and hiking. My favourite spot is Cape Roger Curtis on the west side of the island.

The village of Snug Cove at the ferry dock has a few restaurants to choose from, but the pizza at Tuscany Restaurant is amazing. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Cocoa West Chocolatier for incredible handmade chocolates. Yoga and meditation are also really popular here, with several retreats on the island. 

My guide to Bowen Island has lots of other suggestions for great things to do.

Where to Stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites: This all-suite hotel is located in Artisan Square just a few minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s the in same complex as tons of cute boutiques and Cocoa West Chocolatier. Check rates.

Cabin Rentals: There are lots of really cute cabins on Bowen Island for rent. The Wildwood Cabins are gorgeously rustic and get amazing reviews. Check rates.

Squamish

Stawamus Chief mountain in Squamish
The majestic Stawamus Chief seen from the Squamish River estuary. The town is hidden behind the trees and out of the frame to the left.

For the last three years I’ve lived in Squamish, known as the adventure capital of Canada and one of the best small towns in Canada. It sits at the head of Howe Sound sandwiched between mountain ranges. It has world-class hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and kiteboarding.

For less heart-pumping adventures, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola up to a gorgeous mountain viewpoint, visit Shannon Falls, or swim at one of the lakes. My list of the best things to do in Squamish includes lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins: We stayed in these adorable cabins on a winter trip to Squamish. Bonus: Fergie’s Restaurant is on the property so getting the best breakfast in town is easy! Check rates.

Executive Suites Hotel: This all-suite hotel has great access to hiking and biking trails and is my number 1 pick on my list of the best hotels in Squamish. Check rates.

Alice Lake Provincial Park: This large campground is on my list of the best campgrounds in Squamish. It has a great swimming lake and lots of trails. Check availability.

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Whistler

The suspension bridge at Whistler Peak with a view of the Whistler valley below. Whistler is one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver
The suspension bridge at Whistler Peak. You can see the town amongst the lakes in the valley below.

Whistler is a great weekend trip from Vancouver at any time of year. In the summer you can ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola up the mountain for amazing views, go swimming in the lakes, stroll through the village, or hit up the famous mountain bike trails. One of the main reasons I love Whistler is because it has some of the best hiking trails around.

In the winter you can downhill ski and snowboard of course, but there are also has plenty of beautiful snowshoeing trails. Read my guide to the best things to do in Whistler in winter for even more ideas.

READ NEXT: 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)

Where to Stay in Whistler

The Westin Resort and Spa: If you want to splurge, this is the place. My now-husband took me here to impress me when we were first dating. Check rates.

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel: Apartment-style suite hotels are really popular in Whistler. This one is right in the village and gets great reviews. Check rates.

Camping: My guide to camping in Whistler has details for 18 campgrounds near Whistler.

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Pemberton

The view of Upper Joffre Lake from above. One of the best hikes in Whistler
The view of Upper Joffre Lake from above. The hike is a short drive from Pemberton.

Pemberton often gets overshadowed by Whistler, its flashier neighbour to the south. But Pemberton makes a great weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a chill, small town surrounded by mountains with lots of hiking and mountain biking trails. (Nearby Joffre Lakes is gorgeous.)

But it also has a strong farming and ranching history. Head to North Arm Farm for u-pick berries, a produce stand, and a cafe. Or book a horseback ride – Pemberton has more horses per capita than any other place in BC!

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge: Highly rated all-suite hotel near downtown Pemberton and an easy walk to the One Mile Lake trails. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute cabins and tiny houses for rent near Pemberton. This cabin the woods is luxe but rustic and has a hot tub. Check Rates.

Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

The view from the waterfront walkway in Sechelt, a great weekend getaways from Vancouver
The view from the pier in Sechelt

Sechelt is located on the Sunshine Coast, a short ferry ride from Vancouver, making it the perfect weekend trip. Make sure you also check out the nearby villages of Gibsons, Roberts Creek, and Halfmoon Bay. There are tons of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. But lots of people prefer to book a stay at a cabin or resort with a water view, then just chill out.

The Sechelt area is also an emerging destination for foodies and artisans with weekend farmer’s markets in Sechelt, Gibsons, and Roberts Creek. With lots of new craft breweries, distilleries, cider houses popping up, the area now has its own Sunshine Coast Ale Trail. My husband loves the beer at Persephone Brewing near the Langdale ferry terminal.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Sechelt

Where to Stay in Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: This one has is special for me since it’s where I got engaged! The luxury tent cabins are unreal and worth the splurge! Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of cute cabins for rent on the Sunshine Coast. This cute cabin in Madeira Park has its own private beach! Check Rates.

Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

Hiker on Tin Hat Mountain the Sunshine Coast Trail in British Columbia, Canada.
Standing on top of Tin Hat Mountain on the Sunshine Coast Trail near Powell River. That’s Powell Lake below me.

Sleepy Powell River is a bit more off the beaten path than Sechelt to the South. It’s a logging town with tons of outdoor adventure possibilities. The 180km-long Sunshine Coast Trail runs through the outskirts of town, making Powell River a great jumping-off point for day hikes if you don’t have time for the whole thing.

The historic downtown is home to Townsite Brewing. On my last visit, we spent a fun couple of hours there tasting beer before heading to Costa del Sol in downtown Powell River for some tasty Mexican food. Don’t miss a trip to the cute village of Lund 30 minutes north of Powell River. Head to Nancy’s Bakery on the waterfront to get one of the famous cinnamon buns.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the North Sunshine Coast, BC

Where to Stay in Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

The Magical Dome: This quirky rental cabin near Lund looks like a hobbit house. It has been on my list for a long time! Check rates.

Cabins: These glamping pods have incredible views and are right on the beach in Seal Bay. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs

An eagle sits on a log in the Harrison River with dozens of other eagles in the background. You can see them when visiting Harrison Hot Springs in winter.
You can see tons of eagles in Harrison in the winter

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort community in the Fraser Valley. The main attraction is the hot springs, which are piped into a series of pools at the Harrison Hotsprings Resort as well to a public community pool. (Did you know we have lots of other amazing hot springs in Canada?)

I also love it as a winter destination for cozy cabin time and chill hiking. But the best part about visiting in winter is the eagles – you can see hundreds of bald eagles at once in nearby Harrison Mills.

And it’s less than an hour away, making it one of the closer weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

Sandpiper Resort: I loved my stay in the cabins at this cute riverside property in Harrison Mills. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa: Staying at this hotel gets you exclusive entrance to their deluxe hot springs pools. Book now.

Bramblebank Cottages: Cute cabins with a hot tub, fire pit, and canoes. Check rates.

Fraser Canyon

Sign welcoming people to the Fraser Canyon with mountains in the background
Welcome to the Fraser Canyon

The Fraser Canyon is a off-the-beaten-path, literally. Since the Coquihalla Highway was built in the 1980s, a tiny fraction of the traffic between Vancouver and BC’s Interior goes along Highway 1 past Hope to Lytton.

The Fraser Canyon makes a great short road trip with beautiful hikes, lots of viewpoints, historic sites, and quirky, old tourist attractions like the Hell’s Gate Airtram. My Fraser Canyon road trip guide has lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in the Fraser Canyon

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.

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.

Manning Park

Lupines and wildflowers at Poland Lake in Manning Park
Incredible wildflowers on an alpine hiking trail in Manning Provincial Park

E.C. Manning Provincial Park is one of BC’s most popular parks. In the winter it has a ski resort and lots of snowshoeing trails. In the summer it’s one of my favourite places to hike with kilometre upon kilometre of wildflower meadows.

You can also go canoeing on Lightning Lakes, walk nature trails, and spot wildlife. The ground squirrels are particularly cute. The resort has cabins and a restaurant, so you don’t have to rough it.

Where to Stay in Manning Park

Manning Park Resort: The only lodging in the heart of the park, they have cute cabins and a pool. Check rates.

Manning Provincial Park: There are four campgrounds in the park, but the nicest sites are at Lightning Lake. Check availability.

Parksville

A sandy and pebbly beach spreads out far into the ocean at low tide in Parksville, BC
Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville

Parksville is a beach town just north of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. With kilometres of sandy beaches, it’s one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver. In summer they have an incredible sandcastle competition.

And there are gorgeous waterfalls if you head inland: check out Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls. The quirky Old Country Market in Coombs is also a short drive away. (It’s the place that famously has goats on the roof!)

Where to Stay in Parksville

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort: I know people who return to this beachfront resort year after year. Their Grotto Spa also looks really cool. Check Rates.

The Beach Club Resort: Located right on the beach and an easy walk to the shops and restaurants in Parksville. Check Rates.

Tofino

Cabins at Ocean Village on MacKenzie Beach in Tofino
The cabins at Ocean Village on MacKenzie Beach in Tofino

Tofino on Vancouver Island’s West Coast is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver and one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. Explore the long sandy beaches, go for a hike in the lush rainforest, or hit the waves at Canada’s most famous surf spot.

While you might think of a beach town as a place to visit in the summer, I actually prefer visiting Tofino in winter. It’s quieter and more affordable. And the storm watching is really cool.

If you’re looking to get a bit off the beaten path, head a bit south to the neighbouring town of Ucluelet, which is much quieter and just as cute. Or take a water taxi to the old-growth trees on  Meares Island or the sandy beaches of the Wild Side Trail on Flores Island.

Don’t miss the Tacofino food truck for some of the best tacos in BC. If you’re looking for sit down dinner, head to Shelter Restaurant. My husband and I had a great dinner there for our anniversary a few years ago.

Where to Stay in Tofino

Ocean Village: These adorable gothic-arched cabins are right on the water at Mackenzie Beach. Check Rates.

Island Village at Fred Tibbs: We stayed at these waterfront condos on a recent trip. They’re right downtown Tofino so you can walk everywere. Check Rates.

Southern Gulf Islands

A dog and hiker on the summit of Mount Galiano on Galiano Island, one of the Gulf Islands near Vancouver
Hiking Mount Galiano on Galiano Island

The Gulf Islands are a group of over 200 small islands between Vancouver Island the mainland of British Columbia. Each island has its own personality, but they all offer beautiful ocean views, beaches, forest hikes, farmer’s markets, and artisan studios.

Saltspring is the largest and most populated island, so it has the most things to do. Galiano is a bit smaller and a little more sleepy. Pender, Mayne, and Saturna have fewer shops, restaurants, and services than Saltspring and Galiano, so do a bit of research before you go to find out what’s available. 

READ NEXT: Four Outdoor Adventures on Galiano Island

Where to Stay on the Gulf Islands

Poets Cove Resort and Spa: I stayed at this waterfront resort on Pender Island once for a wedding and it’s gorgeous! Check Rates.

Cabins: Over the years we’ve stayed at some great cabins on Saltspring and Galiano Island. This log cabin on Galiano has a killer cliff top view. Check Rates.

Victoria

Ships in Victoria's harbour, an easy weekend getaway from Vancouver
Victoria’s harbour is gorgeous

Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city, but it’s not a stodgy government town. It has a beautiful harbour, interesting museums, historic buildings, a foodie scene, and easy access to beaches and trails. I’ve visited Victoria countless times because I have several good friends who live there.

One of my favourite things to do in Victoria is to bike the flat, scenic, and quiet Lochside and Galloping Goose trails. I also love walking in Beacon Hill Park or along the Waterfront Trail on Dallas Road.

For indoor activities, I like the Royal British Columbia Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria’s compact downtown also is a great place to shop. I can’t go to Victoria without going to the fabulous Silk Road Tea store. If you want amazing baking, head to Fol Epi in Vic West. The croissants are sooo good.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Abbeymoore Manor: I’ve stayed at this historic B&B a few times since my friends used to live around the corner. It’s a beautiful house. And breakfast is included! Check rates.

Hotel Zed: This renovated motel has an amazing and photogenic retro vibe. It looks like an awesome place to stay on a budget. Check Rates.

Pacific Marine Circle Route

A hiker explores a hidden waterfall inside a canyon near Sombrio Beach on the Pacific Marine Circle Route
Exploring a hidden waterfall at Sombrio Beach on the Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 260km-long loop road trip on Southern Vancouver Island. It’s the perfect length to drive over a weekend. The route starts and finishes in Victoria.

The first half of the route travels along the coast past Sooke. You can stop for hikes in the rainforest, waterfalls, or visits to wilderness beaches. Spend the night in Port Renfrew, my favourite small town, and visit Avatar Grove, home of Canada’s tallest trees and the starting point for the famous West Coast Trail.

On the second half of the route, drive inland past more giant trees to Lake Cowichan and the farms in the Cowichan Valley. Finish the trip by heading back to Victoria along the Malahat Highway.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Where to Stay on the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Wild Renfrew: We stayed at these gorgeous waterfront cabins in Port Renfrew. They even have patios with fire pits. Check Rates.

Prestige Oceanfront Resort: A luxury resort right on the water in Sooke and a short drive to lots of the sights on the southern side of the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Check rates.

Kamloops

The view of downtown Kamloops from the Panorama Inn - one of the nicest weekend getaways from Vancouver
The view of Kamloops from the Panorama Inn. Photo credit: Destination BC/TanyaGoehring

I have family in Kamloops, so I’ve spent a lot of time in the area. It has an incredible network of hiking and mountain biking trails, many of which are right in the city. Sun Peaks Resort is also nearby, with its great hiking and mountain biking in summer and skiing in winter. The beaches along the riverfront are a great place to go for a swim or head out of town to the nearby lakes.

Kamloops has also gotten into the craft beer scene lately, with five breweries and two taphouses in town. With its sunny climate, a weekend in Kamloops can be just what you need to escape the rains in Vancouver in spring and fall. 

Where to Stay in Kamloops

Fairfield Inn and Suites: I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times recently while visiting family. It’s a newer hotel so the rooms are really nice, but the prices are quite reasonable. Plus it includes breakfast. Check Rates.

Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel: This new hotel has a fabulous location right on the riverfront. Check rates.

The Okanagan

Looking down on vineyards in Summerland in BC's Okanagan region - one of over 20 great weekend getaways from Vancouver
Vineyards in Summerland in the Okanagan

The Okanagan is a big region, stretching from Sicamous in the north to Osoyoos in the south. Several lakes run through the middle of the valley, perfect for boating and with great beaches. Explore some of the cute small towns like Vernon and Penticton or check out the many things to do in Kelowna.

The hot and dry climate is also ideal for orchards and vineyards. There are over 200 wineries to visit, but I like the smaller organic ones near Summerland, which are easy to visit by bike. Don’t miss everything apple at Davison Orchards – it’s one of the best things to do in Vernon.

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail runs through the Okanagan. It’s easy biking, especially on an e-bike, and has great views of the lakes and vineyards. My favourite sections are are in Penticton (there’s a tunnel!) and Vernon.

Where to Stay in the Okanagan

Penticton Lakeside Resort: Great rooms right on the lake in downtown Penticton. Walking distance to the beach, kayaking, farmer’s market, breweries, etc. Check Rates.

Predator Ridge Resort: This resort has a great ridge-top location with great hiking and mountain biking trails and restaurants on site. Check rates.

Hotel Zed: Like their sister location in Victoria, this budget motel in Kelowna has an incredible retro look. Check Rates.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Helmcken Falls in Wells Gray Provincial Park - one of the best easy weekend getaways from Vancouver
Helmcken Falls in Wells Gray provincial park. This viewing platform is an easy 5-minute walk from the parking lot.

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in British Columbia’s interior north of Kamloops near the town of Clearwater. It’s a huge park with giant lakes and lots of hiking trails. But it is famous for its waterfalls. There are 8 waterfalls easily accessible from the main park road, plus dozens more in the backcountry. Don’t miss 141m-high Helmcken Falls. It’s the 4th-tallest waterfall in Canada.

The park is in ranch country, so if you want to live like a cowboy, there are tons of lodges nearby where you can go horseback riding or have a cook-out. Wells Gray is definitely one of the best under-the-radar weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Wells Gray

Nakiska Ranch: This Western-style property has great cowboy vibes since it is located on a working ranch. Check Rates.

Across the Creek Cabins: These cute cabins are nestled in the forest inside the park. Book now

Revelstoke

Paragliding in Revelstoke, BC
Tandem paragliding above Revelstoke. It was both amazing and terrifying

Revelstoke is the ultimate Canadian small town: it has world-class mountain biking, incredible hiking, skiing, and paragliding from the highest launch in North America. I liked it so much I went two years in row. It also has one of my favourite things: hot springs! There are several hot springs a near town, including the gorgeous undeveloped Halfway River Hot Springs.

Revelstoke also has a surprisingly robust culinary scene for such a small town with a little farmers markets, great restaurants, micro-breweries, and not one but TWO distilleries! Check out my guides to things to do in Revelstoke, the best hikes in Revelstoke, and the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park to plan your trip. 

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

The Regent Hotel: We stayed at this somewhat upscale, family-run hotel on our first trip to Revelstoke. It was nice without being pretentious. Check Rates.

Boulder Mountain Resort: I spent two nights at these adorable cabins just outside of Revelstoke last summer. They even come with fleece robes! Check Rates.

Bellingham, Washington

View of the waterfront in Bellingham, Washington
Fairhaven neighbourhood of Bellingham. Photo credit: Tourism Bellingham

Bellingham, Washington is more than a place to do some cross-border shopping or buy cheap groceries. It’s actually a cute college town on the ocean with a historic district called Fairhaven. Bellingham is also a craft beer haven with 16 micro-breweries, many of which are gastro-pubs as too.

One of the best things to do is cruise along Chuckanut Drive, a twisty road along the coast through the forest with some great views. There are also lots of hiking and mountain bike trails, quiet country roads for road biking, and kayaking in sheltered bays of Puget Sound.

Where to Stay in Bellingham, Washington

Hotel Leo: The rooms at this downtown hotel have really cool modern decor. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute rentals in Bellingham and on Chuckanut Drive. This waterfront cottage has beach access. Check Rates.

Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

View of the Deception Pass bridge on Whidbey Island from Lighthouse Point - a great option for weekend getaways from Vancouver
The Deception Pass bridge on Whidbey Island from a hiking trail at Lighthouse Point in Deception Pass State Park

Tucked into the north end of Puget Sound, the Deception Pass area is strikingly beautiful: tiny tree-covered islands, swirling currents, and sea cliffs. I love hiking in Deception Pass State Park or enjoying the view from the famous bridge.

Long and narrow Whidbey Island has lots of other pretty spots too including Ebey’s Landing, WWII era defences at Fort Ebey and Fort Casey, wineries, farmers markets, whale watching tours, and sleepy historic towns. 

Where to Stay in Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Captain Whidbey Inn: This historic house is now an amazing B&B right on the water near Coupeville. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of vacation rentals on Whidbey Island. Lots of them are right on the water too. This beach house has a great view. Check Rates.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle skyline at night
Seattle’s skyline is pretty spectacular. That’s Mount Rainier in the background

Seattle is a gorgeous city, sitting between the waters of Puget Sound and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier. Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the world’s first Starbucks, and the Museum of Pop Culture are all must-sees. Lots of visitors on a weekend getaway from Vancouver take in Seahawks football game too.

To get a bit more off-the-beaten-path, I recommend the Underground Tour, where you’ll learn a bit about the city while walking through historic underground tunnels.

This is also a great car-free getaway. It’s easy to take the bus from Vancouver to Seattle, and once you’re there, you can walk or take public transit.

Where to stay in Seattle

Ace Hotel: This hipster spot is in Belltown, a trendy neighbourhood close to downtown. Check Rates.

Vacation Rentals: Seattle can be a pricey city, but you can usually find good deals on rental apartments. This cool loft is right downtown. Check Rates.

Book a Cozy Cabin

Salt Spring Island Treehouse
Incredible cabins near Vancouver. Photos via VRBO.

Spend the weekend chilling out in nature at a cozy cabin. There are tons of adorable cabin rentals near Vancouver. Wake up deep in the forest, high in a treehouse, right beside the ocean, or in a luxury glamping tent.

I’ve stayed in a bunch of beautiful cabins – check them out on my list of the best cabins near Vancouver.

Go Camping

Tents in a rainforest campground in British Columbia. Camping is one of many great weekend getaways from Vancouver
Camping is a great weekend getaway from Vancouver

One of the cheapest ways to go on a weekend getaway from Vancouver is to go camping. There are lots of amazing camping spots fairly close to town. You can camp on a lake, by the ocean, or in the mountains. However, camping is popular so make a reservation in advance to make sure you get a spot. Below are some of my suggestions for the best campgrounds near Vancouver.

I’ve got a whole post with a big list of over 40 places to go camping near Vancouver. It includes options in the Sea to Sky, Fraser Valley, near Hope, in Washington State, and reachable via a short ferry on the Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island.

Final Thoughts

With over 20 weekend trips from Vancouver on this list, I’m sure you’ll find one to add to your list. What is your favourite weekend getaway from Vancouver? Tell me in the comments.

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