Solo Trip: Alberta to Vancouver Island

Herald Provincial Park Campground Shuswap, BC

My first night was spent in a beautiful campground on Shuswap Lake.

Once everyone had left the beach for the evening I swooped in and had it pretty much to myself!

Margaret Falls

I went for a short walk to Margaret Falls, just across from the campground. It was an easy and fun hike with interesting things to see.

Near Cache Creek

On my way to Whistler, I had to pull over to get a picture of how the thick the smoke was from the forest fires. There was a whole mountain range I could barely see, it was strangely quiet and very eerie.

After I took this picture, a huge raven flew over my head and disappeared into the smoke. I thought to myself: "well, he is either watching over me or he is a sign of death." Regardless, I got back in my car and pressed on to Whistler.

Near Cache Creek

More pictures of the forest fires. The scenery on the drive to Whistler was amazing and kept getting more beautiful, despite the smoke in this area.

Near Lillooet, BC

The Fountain Indian Reserve along the Fraser River is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The picture does not do it justice!

Riverside Campground & RV Resort Whistler, BC

My second night was spent camping in Whistler. I was getting tired at this point as the drive took another 6 hours. Although the views were spectacular, it was a bit scary driving up and down the cliffs of mountains all day in my tiny little car.

I went for a little walk to Green Lake and stopped at the golf shop to get my dad a Nicklaus North Golf Course shirt.

I finally fell asleep and woke up to my neighbors banging on pots at 5am. I opened my tent and they told me there was a bear roaming around the campsite. That was my queue to pack up! I really wanted to see Whistler Village, so off I went to beat the rush.

Whistler Village

I was 1 of about 10 people there. I wasn't interested in shopping, so it was perfect to get there before the shops opened and the people flooded in. Thankfully Starbucks WAS open, so I was able to get a coffee and some breakfast before leaving.

Brandywine Falls

On my way to the ferry, I stopped for a short hike to see the incredible Brandywine Falls. It was definitely worth it!

Horseshoe Bay (Ferry to Vancouver Island)

It was such a beautiful drive along the Sea to Sky Highway! I wish I would have stopped to take pictures, but I was too excited to get to the ferry.

These pictures were taken from the ferry.

Qualicum Beach, BC

I finally made it to the island and I was overjoyed!! I rented a very cute and affordable Airbnb for 3 nights. After 3 long travel days and 2 nights camping, it was nice to have a solid roof over my head and a comfy bed to sleep in.

I spent time with my friends, met new ones, went to the Parksville market and spent lots of time at the beach. The beaches are amazing! They are huge and not overpopulated at all. The water is so warm and clear, perfect for paddling, kayaking and swimming. In the mornings people walk their dogs on the beach while the tide is out - very happy dogs everywhere - heaven! And at night people stand up paddle board while the sun sets - what could be better!!

My friend even took me out for SUP and kayaking lessons. The water was a bit rough that day but it was still a blast!

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

This was a great hike with beautiful scenery. It could have been shorter but I got a bit lost and took some long ways around - but I didn't mind.

Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park

One of my bucket list items I wanted to check off was seeing the huge trees Vancouver Island is known for. Cathedral Grove is a short hike along a well maintained boardwalk that winds around some of the oldest and tallest trees in Canada.

On your way back into town, be sure to stop at Goats on the Roof old country market. It has really cute, unique items that you won't see anywhere else. I picked up an orca christmas ornament there (and more), unfortunately it was the only orca I saw while visiting the island. :(

Tofino, BC

1 word - MAGICAL!! This place is so special! The vibes along with the beauty is like no other place I have ever been. I spent the day here playing tourist and doing lots of shopping while I waited for my campsite time.

If you visit the island, Tofino is a must visit! It was a slower drive along winding roads across the island. It took me about 2 hours from Qualicum Beach, so not too bad.

Coffee lovers - stock up on The Foggy Bean coffee! It is hands down the best coffee I have ever had. I wish I would have bought more.

Greenpoint Campground, Pacific Rim National Park

Hands down the most majestic campground I have ever seen! The sites are very roomy, surrounded by huge trees and are quite private. An added bonus was the famous Long Beach was a short walk from the campground.

Victoria, BC

This was the last stop on my island tour. I was pretty exhausted at this point, but I knew I would regret it if I didn't go to Victoria. I am really glad I did, even just for the few hours I was there. I found some street parking, walked along the waterfront, had some lunch on the pier, took some pictures and then headed to the ferry to get back to the mainland. Victoria is busy but beautiful!