Canada's Serene Lakeside Mountain Village Is A Breathtaking Oasis For Outdoor Adventure

The landscapes of British Columbia are known for their beauty. Swaying meadows frame soaring rocky peaks and sparkling lakes, bursting vibrant green in the warmer months and thickly blanketed with snow come wintertime. A fairytale spot to visit is Whistler, Canada's storybook village tucked in the Pacific Coast Mountains. Equally as picturesque is Pemberton, a sleepy village packed with rural charm just a short drive north of Whistler. Backed by sweeping mountain slopes and a serene lake amidst the Canadian wilderness, Pemberton feels like an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cutting through the landscape is the Lillooet River, which separates Pemberton from the jagged mountain ridges to the north, while Pemberton Creek and the shores of One Mile Lake anchor the town to the south. Hiking trails crisscross the countryside, and the Sea to Sky Highway leading out of town brings travelers to Nairn Falls Provincial Park. Paddling, swimming, and waterfront relaxation await at One Mile Lake Park, while hikers can head out onto backcountry trails ranging from breezy lakeside strolls to challenging treks that bring you to panoramic views from the summit of nearby peaks.

After the day's adventures, Pemberton's quiet streets beckon for rest and a good meal. Travelers who enjoy a spot of sightseeing can also spend time at the Pemberton & District Museum, which is open seasonally. Resembling a rustic log cabin and surrounded by shady pines, the museum is packed with artifacts and lifelike dioramas that tell the story of Pemberton Valley's early industry and agriculture. A handful of charming local eateries in the village offer exhausted explorers a delicious bite of everything from Brooklyn-style pizza to hearty burgers. Roughly two hours by car north of Vancouver, a trip to Pemberton will be a great escape for travelers seeking solitude in breathtaking backcountry landscapes.

If relaxing is what you had in mind, then head down to One Mile Lake Park. Shaggy pine trees frame the towering mountains in the distance, which are reflected back on the lake when the surface is calm. A pier stretches out across the water, making it easy to cannonball into the depths for a refreshing swim. A boardwalk bobs serenely nearby, joining up with the leisurely trail skirting the edge of the lake. Campers in the area might even wake up to tendrils of mist enveloping the lake in the early morning. A previous visitor shared in a Google review how much of a "charming spot" it is to experience the outdoors.

From the lake, make your way to Nairn Falls Provincial Park for more breathtaking views. A rugged trail through the dramatic slopes of the valley leads hikers along scenic woodlands, past jagged crags and mossy boulders, all the way up to an observation deck at the top of Nairn Falls, which tumbles majestically into the river below. In wintertime, the snowy landscape looks otherworldly. The trail is still manageable, but previous hikers have recommended spiked boots for safety on the powdery surface.

Find more breathtaking mountain views at Strawberry Point Recreation Site, situated about 30 minutes east of town. Stretched along the edge of the Lillooet Lake, the dramatic slopes rising up over the horizon create a memorable backdrop for photos. A slice of powdery beach curves along the shoreline, where the shade of leafy trees offers respite after sunbathing. Splash and paddle in the water, and stick around to watch the sunset glowing behind the ridges of the mountains. Head back to Pemberton at the end of the day to refuel for your next adventures.

Extend your time in Pemberton to soak up the stunning landscape. Book a night at the Pemberton Valley Lodge, a sprawling chalet set against sweeping slopes, called the "best place to stay in town" in one Google review. Head to the heated pool and hot tub after a day out exploring, or stop by the hotel cafe to sip a few drinks. Boasting almost a full five stars on Google (at the time of writing) is the Greenwood Country Inn, offering a bed for the night and breakfast in the morning. The Pemberton Hotel is another option, situated at the center of the village with easy access to local watering holes. If you're flying in, the closest major airport is Vancouver International Airport, located about a 2.5-hour drive south of Pemberton.

Once there, head to the Town Square Restaurant for a hearty meal amidst friendly surroundings. Serving up juicy burgers and healthy wraps, expect generous portions. Don't forget to order a side of poutine, a must-try while you're in Canada. Meanwhile, tucked within what looks like a Wild West saloon is the Pony Restaurant, highly-rated on Tripadvisor. Guests can enjoy locally-sourced gourmet dishes within the quaint interiors, or dine on the terrace with great views of the mountains. Gooey mac 'n' cheese and chicken parmesan can be found at the Mile One Eating House, a favorite with locals, while the Blackbird Bakery will satisfy all your sweet cravings.

If you're visiting in the wintertime, don't miss a few ski runs at Whistler Blackcomb, one of North America's busiest ski resorts, just 30 minutes south of Pemberton. Meanwhile, travelers from out of town who are heading back to Vancouver should consider a detour at Steveston, a fishing village with lively festivals.