Bugaboos | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe Bugaboos | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe Bugaboos | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe 
Bugaboos | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe Living Landscapes
Nature in the mountains is defined by striking contrasts: rugged ridges cradle softer valleys. First Nations and Indigenous Peoples have lived in relationship with the soil, stone and waters throughout history, and these places are now recognized globally through five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Powerful waterways—like the Kicking Horse River route —thread through alpine forests and meadows, while the Columbia River Wetlands is a testament to remarkable biodiversity.
Revelstoke | Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe Culture Carved by Mountains
Each community has its own rhythm and mountain-town soul. There’s an energetic spirit in ski and bike towns, a creative spark in artsy enclaves, and a hard-working edge in resource hubs. At its heart, the culture here is grounded in values of humility, respect and care.
Canadian Rockies | Reuben Krabbe Adventure at Every Turn
Indigenous Peoples first moved through the peaks and valleys, creating paths that influence experiences today. Later, Swiss guides and heli-ski pioneers forged even newer routes across these ranges. Today, the Birthplace of Adventure pulses with moments – from backcountry hikes to healing hot springs – that are both heart-racing and heart-resting.
Kicking Horse River | Destination BC/Ryan Creary 
St Eugene Golf Resort 
Radium Hot Springs | Destination BC/Kari Medig 4 min
Experience the Birthplace of Adventure
The mountains set the pace, and every trail carries the imprint of generations who’ve cared for this place. World-famous parks, mountain biking trails, alpine lodges, and forest hikes — these experiences invite awe and call for care.
Never Still
Life keeps moving here. Mountain trails and river bends offer moments to push forward and times to pause and take it in.
Glacier National Park | Destination BC/David Gluns Places to go
From the Kootenays—named for the Ktunaxa Nation—to the Canadian Rockies, you’ll find vibrant towns, powerful waters, and people who find joy in every peak and river bend.
Canadian RockiesTurquoise lakes, giant peaks, and Canada’s national parks.
Practical Tips
- This is for travellers who seek challenge and come alive in the outdoors. Steep trails, rushing rivers, and alpine summits reward every effort with views and moments worth savouring. Adventure is part of daily life here, carried through generations in the heart of Canadian mountain culture. And when the day’s done, natural hot springs and welcoming towns offer the perfect place to unwind.
- Four mountain ranges and four national parks set the stage for The Birthplace of Adventure, where life flows with the outdoors. Natural hot springs offer moments to pause, while fly-in lodges lead to backcountry experiences that feel a world away. In the mountain towns, locals share stories and skills shaped by a lifetime spent in these landscapes.
- Each season here has its own rewards. Spring means wildflowers, roaring rivers, and quieter trails. Fall is vivid with golden larches and salmon runs. Summer is the busiest season, so those seeking space and calm may prefer spring or fall. Winter brings deep powder for skiing, boarding, and heli-adventures.
- A car offers the most flexibility, but many adventures begin where the pavement ends. In warmer months, cycle mountain passes, ride backcountry trails, or paddle and raft wild rivers. Year-round, helicopters and floatplanes can take you to tucked-away hot springs, fly-in lodges, or the freshest powder in winter.
Friendly Giant Trail in Kaslo 
Credit: Destination BC | Abby Cooper