Why the Sea-to-Sky Highway in Canada Is the Ultimate Fall Road Trip

British Columbia is famous for its incredible summer hikes and fantastic winter skiing. However, its shoulder seasons often go unnoticed.

As autumn approaches, it’s the ideal time to explore one of North America's most stunning regions without the peak season crowds. This is also a great opportunity to experience the often-overlooked Sea-to-Sky Highway, a fantastic road trip route.

Are you a fan of mountains? You're in luck. Love rugged coastlines? You’ll find that too. Prefer urban experiences? British Columbia Highway 99 offers that as well. While this route is renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, the Sea-to-Sky Highway starts in downtown Vancouver, providing both easy access and diverse scenery throughout the journey.

The adventure is also infinitely customizable. You can complete the round trip in a weekend, but there are enough detours to fill an entire week. No matter how much time you have, it’s just the right amount to enjoy the experience.

Activities to Experience Along the Sea-to-Sky Highway

Dine at the Peak of Vancouver

The aptly named Top of Vancouver might be considered a tourist hotspot, but who really cares? The food is quite good for the price, and the breathtaking views make the meal worthwhile. Plus, it rotates! (Let’s be honest, we all secretly dream of eating in a revolving restaurant high above one of the world's most stunning cities, right?) Starting your journey here is always a great choice.

Chase the Gold

The 2010 Winter Olympics took place in the greater Vancouver area, and visitors can still explore Whistler Olympic Plaza. Snap a fun selfie in front of the Olympic Rings, and then enjoy a gondola ride to the summit of Blackcomb. For those seeking extra excitement, consider hiking back down for a true adventure.

Discover the Out Islands

For those fortunate enough to have extra time, don’t rush out of Horseshoe Bay before taking your first detour. From there, you can hop on a direct ferry to Bowen Island, which features miles of serene hiking trails and offers a uniquely Canadian version of "island time." If you’re in the mood for more island hopping, a direct ferry to Langdale is also available, connecting you to Keats and Gambier Islands.

Ascend the Tunnel Bluffs

Just north of Brunswick Beach, there’s a pull-off that leads to the hiking path up to Tunnel Bluffs. This moderate yet accessible climb rewards you with breathtaking views of Howe Sound. Make sure to bring your hiking boots so you can continue on to Brunswick Mountain, where a roughly nine-mile trek offers even more stunning vistas. (It’s best to tackle this trail before the end of October.)

Check Out BC's Third-Highest Waterfall

Plummeting over 1,100 feet, Shannon Falls is conveniently located just off Highway 99. Nestled within a provincial park of the same name, the falls can get crowded with tourists in the summer — but in autumn, you're more likely to enjoy the natural wonder in solitude. Nearby hiking trails lead to Lukas Falls, which sees even fewer visitors, and while you're in the vicinity, don't miss the Sea to Sky Gondola. It may be a popular spot, but it's perfect for families or travelers with limited mobility who wish to take in stunning mountain views.

How to Get There Using Points and Miles

Fall is an excellent season to find affordable flights to the Pacific Northwest, whether you're landing in Portland (PDX), Seattle-Tacoma, or Vancouver Airport. All three airports are serviced by major US airlines like United, American, and Delta, along with several international carriers. (Keep an eye on TPG Alerts on Twitter for airfare bargains to these destinations.)

Upon arrival, securing a reliable rental car is essential. Be sure to use AutoSlash to find the best rates at your chosen airport. Also, pay for your rental using a credit card that offers primary insurance coverage, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Sapphire Preferred.

In both Vancouver and Whistler, you'll find a plethora of properties affiliated with major hotel chains, allowing you to utilize Hilton Honors points, IHG points, and particularly Marriott Rewards points, among others. (In Vancouver, consider staying at The Westin Grand, JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, or the Douglas.)

If you make frequent stops at smaller locations, look for local accommodations on Hotels.com, where you can earn 10x miles on hotel bookings made through the site until January 31, 2020, when using your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. Additionally, you can benefit from the Hotels.com Rewards program, which allows you to earn one free night for every 10 paid nights, effectively increasing your return to 20% when you use the Venture card.

And as you set out on this road trip, remember to pack your passport and a credit card that won't charge you foreign-transaction fees.

All images courtesy of the author.