British Columbia Map: Geography, Facts & Figures

British Columbia is a beautiful province located on the Western Canada map, bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the U.S. state of Alaska to the northwest, the province of the Yukon to the north, the Northwest Territories to the northeast, Alberta to the east, and the states of Washington, Idaho, and Montana to the south.

The province is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, dense forests, and picturesque coastlines that offer a wide range of attractions for visitors.

If you want to discover more in-depth information on British Columbia as a Canadian province, check out our British Columbia Profile!

Plus, test your knowledge with our Canada geography quiz, How Well Do You Know British Columbia?

History of British Columbia

British Columbia has a rich history dating back thousands of years and was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Haida, Kwakwaka'wakw, and Nuu-chah-nulth, among others.

The first adventurers from Europe to explore the region were Spanish sailors in the late 18th century, followed by British explorers and fur traders. The colony of British Columbia was established in 1858, and joined the Canadian Confederation in 1871.

Geography of British Columbia

British Columbia is the westernmost province of Canada and is home to a number of mountain ranges, including the Rocky Mountains and the Coast Mountains. In addition, the province is known for its many islands, such as Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, which provide visitors with a unique experience.

The Okanagan Valley, Fraser Valley, Squamish, and Shuswap regions are known for their vineyards and orchards, which produce some of the best fruits and wines in the world. The map of British Columbia is also home to a number of hot springs and national parks, which offer a chance to experience nature up close and personal.

Tourist Attractions in British Columbia

Situated between the Canadian Rockies and the Pacific Ocean coast, British Columbia has a wide range of tourist attractions that offer something for everyone. Here are just a few of the most popular destinations!

Vancouver: Vancouver is a main coastal city known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and world-class attractions such as New Westminster, Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Vancouver Island: Vancouver Island is the largest island off the west coast of North America and is home to the city of Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, as well as other cities like Nanaimo and Prince George. The island is known for its rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whistler: Whistler is a resort town located in the Coast Mountains, north of Vancouver. It is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking and hiking in the summer. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant culture and nightlife of the town.
Okanagan: The Okanagan region is known for its vineyards, orchards, and lakes, including Lake Okanagan. The region is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boating, as well as wine tasting and culinary experiences. Major cities for tourism include Kelowna, Vernon, and Penticton.
Cariboo: The Cariboo region is located in the central interior of British Columbia and is known for its historic gold rush towns and ranches. Visitors can take a trip back in time and experience the rich history of the region.
Haida Gwaii: Haida Gwaii, formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, is an archipelago located off the northwest coast of British Columbia. The islands are home to the Haida people and are known for their unique ecology and cultural history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of the Haida people and explore the stunning natural beauty of the islands.
Kootenay Region: Kootenay is located in southeastern British Columbia and is known for its mountain ranges, hot springs, and national parks. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the region and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
Kamloops: Kamloops is a city located in the Thompson Valley, known for its outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and skiing. Visitors can also enjoy the city's vibrant culture and history.
Hot Springs and National Parks: British Columbia is home to a number of wide-open hot springs, including Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park and Radium Hot Springs. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs, surrounded by stunning wilderness. You can also visit several national parks, including Glacier National Park, Mount Revelstoke National Park, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
Gulf Islands: The Gulf Islands are a group of islands located off the east coast of Vancouver Island, known for their beaches, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the islands' unique ecology and culture.
Other Tourism Cities: Cassiar, Langley, and Surrey are some of the other destinations that visitors can explore while in British Columbia. Cassiar is home to some of British Columbia's best camping sites, Langley is known for its antiques and markets, and Surrey offers plenty of shopping and dining options.