Discover The National Parks Of British Columbia

British Columbia’s national parks are some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes in Canada. From wild Pacific coastlines to towering alpine peaks, these protected spaces invite visitors to explore nature, connect with history and experience adventure at its finest. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast or a traveller seeking tranquil beauty, BC’s parks have something for everyone.

 

Yoho National Park

Size: 1,313 km²

Established: 1886

Location: Rocky Mountains, near the Alberta border

Yoho National Park is a jewel of the Canadian Rockies, known for its soaring peaks, ancient glaciers and spectacular waterfalls, including the 373-metre Takakkaw Falls. Established in 1886, it was one of Canada’s earliest national parks, named after a Cree expression of awe and wonder. Popular activities include hiking the Iceline Trail, exploring the Burgess Shale fossil beds and photographing the turquoise waters of Emerald Lake.

Kootenay National Park

Size: 1,406 km²

Established: 1920

Location: Southeastern BC

Created through the Banff-Windermere Agreement, Kootenay National Park is a place of contrasts – glaciers and canyons, hot springs and dry grasslands. Scenic drives along Highway 93 reveal striking landmarks like Marble Canyon and the Paint Pots, where mineral-rich waters turn the earth brilliant orange. Hiking, camping and soaking in the Radium Hot Springs are top visitor experiences.

Mount Revelstoke National Park

Size: 260 km²

Established: 1914

Location: Near Revelstoke, Selkirk Mountains

Despite its smaller size, Mount Revelstoke packs a lot of beauty into its alpine landscapes. The Meadows-in-the-Sky Parkway leads to vibrant summer wildflower displays, while trails wind through old-growth cedar and hemlock forests. Wildlife viewing is exceptional here, with opportunities to spot mountain goats, black bears and even the rare mountain caribou.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Size: 511 km²

Established: 1970

Location: West coast of Vancouver Island

Stretching along Vancouver Island’s wild west coast, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is divided into three distinct areas: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands and the West Coast Trail. Visitors can surf the rolling Pacific waves, paddle among remote islands or hike one of Canada’s most legendary multi-day treks. The park is also home to rich marine life, from orcas and sea otters to bald eagles.

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

Size: 36 km²

Established: 2003

Location: Southern Gulf Islands

Scattered among the sheltered waters between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland, the Gulf Islands offer a warm, Mediterranean-like climate unique in Canada. Kayakers can glide past rocky shorelines, spotting seals and seabirds, while hikers and cyclists enjoy quiet island trails. The park is also known for its beaches, perfect for summer picnics and swimming.

Glacier National Park

Size: 1,349 km²

Established: 1886

Location: Columbia Mountains

Not to be confused with its US counterpart, BC’s Glacier National Park is a rugged wilderness of ice-capped peaks, lush valleys and some of Canada’s oldest forests. Known as the birthplace of North American mountaineering, the park draws climbers, hikers and nature photographers. Visitors can explore trails that lead to waterfalls, alpine meadows and dramatic glacier viewpoints.

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve & Haida Heritage Site

Size: 3,399 km²

Established: 1988

Location: Haida Gwaii, off BC’s north coast

Remote and pristine, Gwaii Haanas is both a natural paradise and a place of deep cultural significance. Protected through collaboration between Parks Canada and the Haida Nation, it encompasses rugged fjords, lush rainforests and ancient Haida village sites. Visitors can explore by kayak, boat or guided tour, encountering rich marine life and the powerful stories of the land.

Planning Your Adventure

Whether you’re drawn to the alpine meadows of Mount Revelstoke, the surf of Pacific Rim or the cultural treasures of Gwaii Haanas, British Columbia’s national parks offer endless opportunities for exploration. Each park has its own season, character and activities – making BC a destination worth returning to again and again.