Traveling the loop from Vancouver on Highway 99 north, then back down through Fraser Canyon is an adventurer’s dream. Mountains filled with rugged hiking terrain, azure lakes brimming with trout and rushing rivers carved through granite are enough to please any adrenaline junkie. But the locations on this journey also hold vast history dating back to the First Nations, along with Gold Rush.

1. Vancouver

Starting Point

Described as a playground for active travelers, Burnaby sits just 15 minutes outside of Vancouver. With harbor cruises, mountain gondolas and a vintage carousel, visitors can find themselves on the go. For those with a sense of adventure, explore Capilano Suspension Bridge, where a trip through the coastal rainforest will take you into the tree tops.  Shoot the rapids on the Fraser River by boat, or view them from a sky tram at Hell’s Gate. Then head back to town and the largest mall in BC, Metropolis at Metrotown for dinner, shopping and great entertainment options. See stunning foliage with a tour the Dr. Sun-Yat Sen Classical Garden, which was named the Top City Garden by National Geographic.

Recommended Stopovers
Burnaby Cariboo RV Park • Burnaby, BC – (604)420-1722

Hazelmere RV Park • Surrey, BC – (604)538-1167

2. Whistler

Drive 82 miles • 1 hour, 41 minutes

This resort town at the base of a world-class ski mountain also hosts numerous summer tourism activities within the Pacific Range. Attack the extreme terrain of an alpine mountain bike park, or paddle the waters of several local lakes and rivers. Gondola rides are popular year-round, and the Peak Suspension Bridge promises the adventurous a thrilling walk on the wild side:  a walkway spanning 426 feet that hangs off the top of a mountain! There’s never a dull moment exploring this fast-paced mountain village.

3. Lillooet

Drive 81 miles • 2 hours, 3 minutes

Getting its start as a gold rush town, Lillooet’s nickname of “BC’s Little Nugget” is an apt title.  Today the town’s treasures lie in its natural wonders like the spectacular untouched mountains surrounding this community.  Venture to stunning Seton Lake for fishing and swimming, or stop for a savory meal and some delightful wine at Fort Berens Estate Winery, where the view of Fraser Canyon will take your breath away.  History buffs will enjoy strolling along the Old Suspension Bridge and perusing ancient artifacts from the First Nations at the Lillooet Museum.

4. Cache Creek

Drive 54 miles • 1 hour, 10 minutes

A town born from the juncture of two roads, Cache Creek has seen its share of travelers.  Today’s visitors wander out to Hat Creek Ranch, where cowboy heritage is alive and well.  Many then head straight to Juniper Beach Provincial Park for great boating and fishing diversions.  The archaeologist in the family will dig the McAbee Fossil Beds, with over 80 petrified plant species.  On your way back to town, purchase sumptuous homemade pies and dinner at Horsting’s Farm, and get a personal introduction to farm to table foods as they are harvested for your meal.

5. Hope

Drive 120 miles • 2 hours, 17 minutes

Originally settled by First Nations nearly 10,000 years ago, today Hope is a community built within a massive wilderness area, where locals create beauty from the land and its bounty.  Known for their chainsaw competitions, the town is full of unique art displays and eclectic galleries.  The surrounding landscapes lend themselves to every outdoor pursuit imaginable.  With rugged mountain terrain and rapidly moving rivers, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fishing, among other activities.  You might even find yourself an acting job, as Hope has become a movie set for dozens of films and television shows.

6. Chilliwack

Drive 33 miles • 34 hours

When gold was discovered in the Fraser Valley in 1857, most prospectors and suppliers traveled through Chilliwack.  Today the town has grown to over 80,000, developing a vibrant performance art and music scene. You’ll enjoy a wide variety of outstanding symphony performances, listen to free weekly concerts at “Music and More” events, and stomp your feet to the beat with the Sardis Secondary School Drum Line. Outdoor adventure at Cultus Lake and in the surrounding mountains is unrivaled. On the Vedder River, the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve welcomes guests with a beautiful interpretive center and observation tower. Burn some calories on the many trails and bridges in the park.

Take Highway 1 back to Vancouver to complete your Frasier Canyon loop.