The key to improving your driving skills is to practice, practice, practice. And what better way to practice than taking your car out on the highway for an extended road trip? Canada has a lot of beautiful scenery and interesting attractions to offer, so whether you are an experienced driver or just starting out, it’s time to hit the road.
1. Sea to Sky Highway (Vancouver to Whistler)
Travel north on Highway 99 starting in North Vancouver. The drive itself is only an hour and a half, but we imagine that your trip will go much longer once you’ve taken the chance to see Mother Nature at its best at the following stops:
- Horseshoe Bay: This small seaside town will give you the chance to slow down. Take a ride on a ferry or eat at a café by the water. Just west of Horseshoe Bay, Whytecliff Park offers swimming or scuba diving so you can check out the marine life.
- Britannia (BC) Mining Museum: Go underground, pan for gold, and learn more about mining life as you tour this award-winning museum.
- Squamish: More than just a pit stop, Squamish is home to both Stawamus Chief, a towering mountain that offers great views, and Shannon Falls.
- Brackendale: During the winter months, a large population of bald eagles migrates to this area. Sit and watch at the Eagle Run.
- Brandywine Falls: Stretch your legs after a long drive by hiking into Brandywine Falls, which features a 70-meter drop.
2. Cabot Trail (Cape Breton, Nova Scotia)
The Cabot Trail around Cape Breton is hailed as one of Canada’s best-known and most-loved drives. You can find culture and beachside fun at the following must-see locations, but you really don’t want to miss this trip because of its breathtaking views at every turn.
- Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site: Want to add a little history to your trip? Visit this museum in Baddeck for hands-on activities and exhibits all about the inventor of the telephone.
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Perfect for those wanting clear hiking trails. Out of the all the viewpoints, make sure that you take the aptly named Bog Trail to see the Cape Breton Highlands bog.
- Chéticamp: Whale-watching cruises are available if you’d like to spot some sea life. In the evening, go into the Acadian village for live music.
- Margaree Harbour: When you circle back toward Baddeck, you’ll find that the Celtic culture is still alive and well in Cape Breton. The Barn at the Normaway Inn is a great stop for fiddle music and a dance.
3. Vancouver to Tofino, BC
This road trip also begins around Horseshoe Bay in beautiful Vancouver. However, you’ll instead take BC Highway 4, also known as the Pacific Rim Highway, onto beautiful beaches and sun. What incredible stops can you expect? Take a look.
- Coombs Country Market: Stop by for international food, handmade gifts, and treats—or at least to check out the family of goats living on the roof.
- Ucluelet: Before you hit Tofino, try surfing in this city. There are still big waves, but with fewer crowds.
- Chesterman Beach: The surfing continues once you finally reach Tofino, Canada’s surfing capital. Chesterman Beach seems to be the favourite, but you can also try Schooner Cove or Long Beach, or opt for a hike in Pacific Rim National Park instead.
Remember, all of these destinations are at your disposal once you have the proper driver certification.Contact North Shore Driving School Ltd. about our training programs and get ready to travel!