Journey through British Columbia: The Trans-Canada Highway

The Trans-Canada Highway is the longest national highway in Canada, stretching over 7,800 kilometers from coast to coast. In British Columbia, the highway winds its way through stunning mountain landscapes, historic towns, and breathtaking natural attractions.

The start of the Trans-Canada Highway in British Columbia is located at Mile 0 in the city of Victoria, which is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The highway begins at the intersection of Douglas Street and Dallas Road, near the inner harbor of Victoria. The highway starts by passing northward along the east coast of Vancouver Island for 99 km (62 mi) to Nanaimo along a mostly four-lane, heavily-signalized highway. It is a stunning route offering travelers breathtaking views of the island’s rugged coastline, lush forests, and pristine lakes.

Southbound: Nanaimo to Victoria

On the mainland, from the coastal city of Vancouver, the highway crosses the Fraser River and enters the rugged Fraser Canyon, where travelers can marvel at the towering cliffs and rushing waters of the river. The highway then climbs up into the mountains, passing through the historic gold rush town of Cache Creek and the scenic Yoho National Park before reaching the Alberta border. Along the way, travelers can stop at numerous attractions, including hot springs, waterfalls, and historic sites.