These colossal peaks are a paradise for motorhome holidays, with winding roads, panoramic vistas and plenty of outdoor activities to entertain the whole family.

In this guide to British Columbia's mountains, we'll delve beyond the well-known ranges to uncover some of the lesser-known gems contributing to this stunning landscape.

From the Purcell and Valhalla Ranges to crystalline glaciers, alpine forests and azure lakes, let's explore the richness and diversity of British Columbia's mountainous terrain.

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British Columbia: A very brief introduction

British Columbia is one of the most westerly provinces of Canada. It edges Canada's Pacific coast and soars up to the peaks of the Canadian Rockies.

It's over 1,200km north to south and 1,050km east to west. That's bigger than Germany, France and The Netherlands together.

You'll find some of the best unspoilt wilderness and diverse geography in the world. From biking and hiking routes through Glacier National Park to the ski resorts of Whistler Blackcomb (linked to Vancouver via the Sea-to-Sky Highway), sandy beaches, grassy plains and inland deserts – it's perfect for laid-back adventurers and adrenaline junkies alike.

In more good news for motorhomers, British Columbia boasts more protected parks, ecological reserves, and conservation areas than any other Canadian province. In fact, the government owns 90% of the territory, where over 60% of Canada's mammals and bird species are found.

So, with mountains also covering over 75% of British Columbia – what are some of the best lesser-known spots to visit?

The Rocky Mountains: Beaverdell Range

Starting your journey in the east with the colossal Canadian Rockies, you'll find hidden treasures such as the Beaverdell Range.

The Beaverdell Range (known for its pristine alpine lakes) offers secluded hikes and a true glimpse into the Canadian countryside. Named after the Beaverdell community on its southwest side, the range is midway along the West Kettle River. This river served as the pathway for the Kettle Valley Railway, which has since been transformed into a biking and hiking trail, integrated into the Trans-Canada Trail.

Of course, this is only one of many sub-ranges making up the Canadian Rockies. Five national parks, including Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho, are also in the wider area.

Highest peaks

Big White Mountain is the highest point of the Beaverdell Range at 2,315 metres. It forms part of the larger Okanagan Highland range, featuring rounded mountains and deep, narrow valleys.

What to do

If there's one thing to do in the Beaverdell area, it's outdoor fun. Climb mountains, visit pristine lakes and even head out on a fishing tour. Ride the historic Trans Canada Trail, go snowshoeing in winter or take a leisurely stroll along the Kettle River.

Where to park

Head to Berg Lake Trailhead Parking for a fantastic lake-side stroll in the Beaverdell Range. If you're visiting Big White Mountain Ecological Reserve, park in the nearby Big White Ski Resort, accessible via Highway 33.

Where to eat

There are a few restaurants to choose from near Beaverdell, from Mexican Cafes to Tapas Bars and "smoke and oak" bistros. Here are some of the most recommended nearby spots.

The Kootenays: Purcell Range

Surrounded by many towering mountain ranges, including the Purcell, Monashee and Selkirk Ranges, the Kootenays are known for their welcoming, laid-back vibes and stunning natural surroundings.

The Purcell Mountain Range in the Kootenay region of British Columbia is home to the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Provincial Park. Here, you'll find mossy trails, soaring peaks and crystal-clear streams (some feeding the 100-kilometre-long Kootenay Lake).

If you're in the area, don't miss the trail heading to Monica Meadows. With beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, calm lakes (great for swimming in the summer), and vibrant alpine flowers, it's a haven for nature lovers. The 8-kilometre hike through forests and easy-going pathways takes you there.

Highest Peak

Mount Farnham is the Purcell Range's highest peak at 3,493 metres. Nonetheless, the Howser Spire Massif (3,412 metres) is also impressive. It's one of three granite peaks forming the highest part of the Canadian Bugaboo Spires.

What to do

While in the area, don't miss the Dewar Creek Hot Springs or hike part of the 63-kilometre Earl Grey Trail. Go swimming or paddling in alpine lakes and try spotting some of the park's 90+ bird species.

Where to park

There are six trailhead parking lots around the entrances to the park, which you can find on this Purcell Map. Park at either the East or West trailheads for easy access to the beautiful Earl Grey Trail.

Where to eat

It's a pretty remote area, but head west to nearby Kalso for a friendly welcome, buzzing cafes and hearty meals.

The Coast Mountains: Garibaldi Range

Head towards the iconic Coast Mountains, and you'll find a whole spectrum of soaring peaks, diverse vegetation, plenty of wildlife and some of the most scenic vistas on earth.

Garibaldi Park is located in the northern part of the Garibaldi Ranges, a subset of the Pacific Ranges in the Coast Mountains. This group of peaks is known for its stunning high alpine landscapes, vast icefields, and towering, snow-covered summits.

With over 90-kilometres of hiking trails, there's no shortage of adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. For anyone after a bit of winter recreation, Diamond Head is the main area for snowshoeing, snowboarding and skiing.

The Garibaldi range is also just 64-kilometres from Vancouver, providing a unique blend of wilderness and civilisation. What's not to love?

Highest peaks

Wedge Mountain (at 2,892 metres) is the range's highest point, but the towering Mount Garibaldi is the park's true centrepiece.

What to do

Revel in the alpine flowers (with peak bloom from late July to late August) and experience the majesty of Garibaldi Lake's bright blue waters. The vivid hue is down to glacial sediment (also known as rock flour) suspended in the water and refracting sunlight entering the lake.

Where to park

The park has five access points from Highway 99 (better known as the Sea to Sky Highway) between Pemberton and Squamish. Park at Rubble Creek parking lot for easy access to Panorama Ridge, Black Tusk, and Garibaldi Lake. There's also a Diamond Head Parking Lot for easy access to winter activities.

Where to eat

There are plenty of restaurants near Garibaldi Park, with the Free Bird Table & Oyster Bar (famed for its Cajun and Creole seafood) and the Crab Apple Cafe (great for a hearty breakfast) particularly highly rated.

The Cascades: Hozameen Range

Crossing into the Cascade Range, you'll get a glimpse of yet more lesser-explored corners.

The Hozameen Range is a Northern Cascades subrange bordered by the Okanagan and Coquihalla Ranges. This craggy area boasts 94 individual mountains, including Castle Peak, Jack Mountain, Hozameen Mountain and Frosty Mountain. You'll easily catch a glimpse of the mighty Hozameen Peak from one of the many turnouts along Highway 20.

The Hozameen Range has some fantastic trails and protected areas. E.C. Manning Provincial Park (home to Lightning Lake and the infamous rainbow bridge) and Skagit Valley Provincial Park, where you'll find well-trod trails, rugged summits, and alpine meadows, are nearby. The Hozameen Range also contains sections of the North Cascades National Park, which offers hiking, climbing, and "backcountry" camping experiences.

Highest peaks

At 2,763 metres high, Jack Mountain is the highest peak in the Hozameen Range. It's the 17th highest mountain in Washington State (US) and towers dramatically over Ross Lake.

What to do

If there's one thing to do in the Hozameen Range, it's hiking. Check out this great guide to some of the best trails. The guide is broken down by area, highlighting routes across the North Cascades, E. C. Manning and Skagit Valley Provincial Parks.

Where to park

Lightning Lake in E. C. Manning Provincial Park has a day-use parking lot a few kilometres off Highway 3. Visit the individual park websites for more information on parking and attractions.

Where to eat

There aren't too many choices in this wilderness-filled area, but a few spots are found near E.C. Manning Park. The neighbourhood Rolling Pin Bakery in Hope is particularly well-loved.

The Selkirk Mountains: Valhalla Range

Entering the Selkirk Mountains (a range spanning southeastern British Columbia), you'll find the inspiring Valhalla Ranges. Named after the immortal hall where Norse heroes went after dying in Battle, the range offers suitably impressive scenery.

Amidst these ancient geological formations is Valhalla Provincial Park. Here, you'll discover glacial valleys, icefields, lakes, stunning viewpoints, and even the odd herd of wild goats!

The broader region also has a stunningly picturesque Highway loop that's perfect for motorhome adventures. This is the "International Selkirk Loop" that winds its way through the southern Selkirks.

Highest peaks

With mountains such as Gladsheim, Gimli, Asgard and Midgard, you'll feel like you've stepped straight out of the pages of Nordic mythology. Gladsheim is the highest peak of the Valhallas, at 2,830 metres.

What to do

There's certainly your fair share of hikes, climbing, drives and viewpoints, but don't miss opportunities for canoeing on Slocan Lake, as well as many spots for fishing and swimming. Valhalla Park has a brochure with more info and safety guidance.

Where to park

Access the park from Highway 6, with roads from Passmore and Slocan City.

Where to eat

Slocan is the nearest community, where you'll find cafes, bakeries, and grills. Visit the Lobby Grill for fantastic burgers, sandwiches, and prime ribs.

Planning a motorhome adventure in British Columbia?

Are you ready to discover motorhome holidays in Canada? In addition to trips taking in the vast and varied mountain ranges of British Columbia, you can find drives winding through parks and lakes, the coastal Maritimes, "sea to sky" routes, and some of Canada's most vibrant cities.

For more scenic drives and the thrill of discovery, explore all Alan Rogers Worldwide has to offer. Your motorhome adventure awaits – let the exploration begin!

Peter Stannett

Content Writer

Peter is our content writer and SEO specialist, helping keep our content current and monitoring website traffic.

His content covers all four corners of the globe, across topics like activities, advice, food, culture and history.

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