As the chill of winter sets in, the appeal of a cozy retreat on wheels along the scenic West Coast grows. Whether you’re staying in Canada or continuing down to the U.S., RVing along this stretch can be a dream come true for those with a love for adventure. Grab a map, your favorite travel companions, and explore how you can make the most of winter in your RV.
Preparing Your RV for the Journey
Before you hit the road, ensure your RV is winter-ready. This means checking the insulation, making sure your heating system is up to par, and investing in good quality snow tires if you’re venturing into areas with heavy snowfall.
Additionally, stock your RV with extra blankets, a first-aid kit, and make sure you have a solid emergency plan. Remember, safety first so you can enjoy the West Coast winter worry-free.
Canada’s West Coast Charm
Winter on Canada’s West Coast is a spectacle of snowy landscapes and vibrant cities. Victoria and Vancouver are particularly RV snowbird-friendly, offering numerous amenities and winter activities that celebrate the season.
Vancouver Island: A Winter RV Haven
Hop on a ferry with your RV and explore Vancouver Island. The island’s mild winter is ideal for year-round RVing, with fewer tourists and a tranquil atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Be sure to make time to stop and spend a day skiing or snowboarding at Grouse Mountain, or take a winter bike ride around Stanley Park, or visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden (home of the winter light festival) along the way.
Victoria’s Winter Allure
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a must-visit for winter RVers. The city is known for its historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful gardens that maintain their charm even in winter. RV parks in and around Victoria offer easy access to the city’s attractions, including the famous Butchart Gardens, which also feature spectacular winter lighting displays.
A Skier’s Paradise
BC is home to the most spectacular ski towns and resorts in all of Canada. Head inland to Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley, where RVers can enjoy a different aspect of British Columbia’s winter. The city is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and is close to several ski resorts, making it a great base for winter sports enthusiasts. Or make the stop at Whistler, a world-renowned ski resort town. While it’s known for its ski slopes and snowboarding trails, Whistler also offers a range of winter activities like snowshoeing, tobogganing, and scenic gondola rides. RV parks in the area provide a cozy retreat after a day of adventure, with amenities to keep you warm and comfortable.
Washington State: From Rainforests to Snowy Peaks
In it for the long haul – It’s not just Canada that makes for the perfect winter RV escape. The Evergreen State of Washington presents a diverse range of winter RV destinations. You can park your RV in the shadow of snow-capped mountains or within the lush Olympic Rainforest. Washington’s natural winter beauty is unmatched and perfect for those looking to mix a little snow with their coastal views.
Embracing the West Coast Winter
Winter RVing on the West Coast is not just about finding warmer spots; it’s about embracing the season’s charm wherever you are. Whether you’re watching storms from atop a mountain in BC or enjoying a sunny day in Southern California, your RV allows you to appreciate winter and the West Coast in all its diversity.
As winter wanes and you prepare to pack up your RV, you’ll have a collection of memories as vast as the West Coast itself. The beauty of RVing is that it’s not just a journey; it’s a lifestyle that brings together people from all walks of life to share in the splendor of nature.
CHOOSE BIG BOY’S TOYS FOR YOUR RV NEEDS
We’re proud to be a local, family-owned RV dealership in beautiful Nanoose Bay on Vancouver Island. An award-winning RV dealership, we have one of the most extensive RV facilities on the island, with a dedicated team ready to serve you. Contact us today.
