Travel advisory:
Busy weekend expected
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Posted: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Busy weekend expected
BC Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel on the coast. Our major routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are expected to be at or near capacity for vehicles during peak times.
Be prepared for sailing waits if a booking has not been made in advance of travel. Depending on when you arrive, there may be limited or no space available for drive-up vehicles. Check Current Conditions before leaving for the terminal for the latest sailing and capacity information, and check Service Notices for operational updates.
If your plans are flexible, consider taking transit and travel as a foot passenger. Walk-on bookings are available on our major routes at no additional cost and are recommended to help secure your preferred sailing. BC Day long weekend travel tips can be found here.
OVERVIEW
Vast landscapes, expansive valleys, and sky-high waterfalls are just some of the awe-inspiring features of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. This beautiful region stretches from the Pacific Ocean across the Cariboo Mountains to Alberta.
Thanks to its natural wonders, rich Indigenous history, and renowned wildlife, it is a staple on the map of thrill seekers from across Canada and beyond.
Top things to do
Credit: Destination BC / Kari Medig
Ride a horse
Visit a guest ranch to gallop across open fields, help out on the ranch or attend the annual Williams Lake Stampede.
Join a wildlife tour
Join Kynoch Adventure Tours with an experienced guide as you float the Atnarko River in a comfortably eqipped river raft to see grizzly bears feeding, or on a half-day journey to see eagles, salmon, bird life and spectacular views.
Credit: Destination BC / Grant Harder
Experience breathtaking views
Take a trip to Nimpo Lake, known as being the float plane capital of Canada and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Credit: Destination BC / Kalum Ko
Visit Tweedsmuir Provincial Park
Explore Tweedsmuir, BC's largest provincial park, and enjoy the legendary fishing offered by its many lakes and rivers.
Credit: Destination BC / Callum Snape
See petroglyphs
Visit historical lands, rich with culture, petroglyphs (rock carvings), hoodoos (eroded rock formations) and volcanic mountains.
Explore cities
Bella Coola
Bella Coola is a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime destination that invites visitors to explore its untamed wilderness. Embark on eco-rafting adventures, witness majestic grizzly and black bears—and if you're lucky, the elusive spirit bear—or enjoy world-class fishing and more.
Beyond outdoor thrills, immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture by delving into the histories of Indigenous communities and the gold rush era, gaining a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary place.
Barkerville
Visit the preserved gold-rush town of Barkerville for an authentic 1860s experience. Wander around the old town, explore over 100 heritage buildings consisting of saloons, museums, churches, homes, general stores, blacksmiths and more – all as part of a genuine experience designed to treat you to the sights and sounds of British Columbia during the 19th century gold rush.
Quesnel
Quesnel is located in the heart of the Cariboo region and offers a unique small-town charm. There are many options for outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to wildlife spotting and rafting. Take a trip to the local museum to learn about Quesnel’s history or stop by Bowron Lake Provincial Park,
Williams Lake
Visit the charming city of Williams Lake in Central BC. Located along the historic Cariboo Gold Rush Trail and surrounded by lakes, rivers and forested hillsides, you can discover rich local history and enjoy a wide variety of year-round outdoor activities.
