Hope
Located close to the junctions of three major British Columbia highways, many might view the town of Hope as just a ‘pit stop’ en route to their final destination.
The Trans Canada Highway hugs its eastern boundary, skirting then crossing the Fraser River to continue its way north through rugged, picturesque countryside while, to the east, the Coquihalla Highway (BC5) whisks travellers through to Merritt and Kamloops, barely giving them a chance to enjoy the surroundings. Those looking for a more leisurely but spectacular drive east can choose to take Highway 3, skirting the US border for much of its route.
Hope has so much to offer visitors. It’s quirky and laid-back and, being only a 1.5 hour drive from our Vancouver RV rental location, it’s a perfect first or last night stop for Guests picking up or dropping off their RVs there.
Stop in at the visitor centre and pick up a self-guided walking tour map then set out to find the more than 80 chainsaw carvings proudly displayed around the town centre.
An 8km drive to the east will have you at Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park which features the popular Othello Tunnels. A walking trail here will take you through five now disused railway tunnels which, contrasted against the steep granite cliffs, will leave you in awe of this magnificent area. Flashlights are recommended!
A moderate hike up the front of Hope Mountain leads to a lookout over the town and surrounding area and is highly recommended on a clear day. The area around Hope is home to some of BCs wildest rivers and those looking for white water thrills won’t be disappointed.
The town is well served with camping options, boasting many great RV parks within a stone’s throw of all there is to do and see. Hope is definitely more than just a ‘pit stop’ – stop a while and discover it for yourself.
The Chainsaw Carving Capital of Canada
Did you know that carvers from around the world travel to Hope to compete in an International Wood Carving Competition held biennially in the town?
A Walk through History
A feat of man-made engineering, the Othello Tunnels are a mix of history and nature rolled into one neat package.
Video courtesy of Hope, Cascades & Canyons