Prince Rupert sits about as far north as you can go on the west coast of British Columbia before reaching the Alaskan Panhandle. Known as a marine transportation hub, this coastal community also surprises visitors with its charm, strong Aboriginal heritage, and creative arts scene. Located on Kaien Island, the town is surrounded by rainforest-covered mountains that cascade down to the water’s edge. Nearby, Khutzeymateen Provincial Park is home to a thriving grizzly bear population, making it a fantastic spot for a wildlife adventure between May and mid-July. To the west, the Skeena River carves a path through the interior mountains, paralleled by the Yellowhead Highway, which continues east to Prince George, Jasper, and beyond.

Despite its remote location, Prince Rupert is well-connected. The Inside Passage ferry operates regularly between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy on Vancouver Island. You can join as a foot passenger or bring your hire car to complete the scenic 1,800-kilometre return journey to Vancouver by road. Alternatively, the Skeena railway runs east from here, offering a spectacular two-day journey through stunning landscapes from Prince Rupert to Jasper, via Prince George.