March is the beginning of spring in British Columbia, but conditions remain cold and snowy for much of the large province. The exception is along the coast: although still quite cold, the conditions are suitable for exploring the rainforests and for wildlife-watching, including bears and whales. Skiers and other snow sports enthusiasts will still find plenty to keep them busy this month. Read on for more information on traveling to British Columbia in March.
British Columbia in March: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
## Weather in British Columbia During March
March signals the arrival of spring in British Columbia, though the extent of its presence varies significantly across this vast province. The climate exhibits considerable diversity, influenced by latitude (north to south) and geography (coast to mountains). Generally, the northern, inland, and mountainous regions experience colder temperatures compared to the wetter coastal areas. Therefore, March in British Columbia presents a spectrum of weather conditions, ranging from mild and damp along the southern coast, accompanied by thawing snow and the resulting meltwater, to cold and wintry in the northern and mountainous zones. Regardless of the specific temperature, the days demonstrably lengthen throughout the province during this month, offering more daylight hours for exploration and activities.
In Vancouver, situated on the southwestern coast, the climate tends to be mild throughout the year, and March is no exception. Expect a minimum temperature of around 39°F (4°C) and a maximum temperature reaching approximately 50°F (10°C). Contrast this with inland areas, which generally experience colder winters and warmer summers than the coast, with March representing a transitional month. For instance, consider Kelowna, located in the inland southern region of British Columbia. Here, you can anticipate a minimum temperature of 32°F (0°C) and a maximum of 50°F (10°C). Moving further north, the province maintains its wintry grip throughout March. Take Fort Nelson, for example, situated in the province’s northeast, roughly at the same latitude as Juneau, Alaska. Fort Nelson typically sees a minimum temperature of 10°F (-12°C) and a maximum of 30°F (-1°C) during March, highlighting the significant climatic differences within British Columbia. Packing layers is crucial for travel within the province during this changeable month.
## Crowd Levels and Travel Costs in British Columbia in March
March remains peak season for skiing and other exhilarating snow sports in the mountain resort towns of southern and southeastern British Columbia. The Rocky Mountains and the Kootenay Rockies, along with the areas surrounding Vancouver, are particularly popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts. Consequently, in well-known resorts like Whistler, Revelstoke, and Kicking Horse, securing accommodation well in advance is absolutely essential, especially if your travel dates coincide with weekends or the Easter holiday (assuming Easter falls within March).
Beyond these popular mountain resorts, March generally represents the low season for travel to other areas within British Columbia. Vancouver, being a major city with a relatively milder climate, will still attract some visitors, and you might even find advantageous low-season deals on accommodation. However, smaller towns located inland and along the coast may have limited facilities and services available during this off-season period. Be sure to check opening hours and availability for attractions and restaurants in these smaller locations.
## Recommended Destinations: Where to Go in British Columbia in March
Coastal British Columbia presents an excellent option for travel during March, largely due to its milder climate compared to other regions of the province. Take advantage of the lengthening days by venturing outdoors and experiencing the stunning forests and natural landscapes that British Columbia is renowned for, all without enduring excessively cold temperatures. Wildlife enthusiasts should certainly consider a trip to the Great Bear Rainforest, recognized as the largest coastal temperate rainforest on the planet, situated northwest of Vancouver. This expansive, moss-covered pine forest harbors ancient trees, some reaching up to 1,000 years in age, and, as its name suggests, a significant population of bears, including the elusive white spirit bear. Bella Coola serves as a convenient base for exploring the Great Bear Rainforest, offering various facilities and guided tours into the heart of the rainforest, including comfortable and cozy lodges.
The Vancouver area is an ideal choice for early spring travel in British Columbia because, despite the potential for changeable weather, it offers a diverse array of indoor and outdoor attractions to cater to various interests, regardless of the weather conditions. The mild climate allows for comfortable exploration of the city, moving between museums, art galleries, and diverse restaurants with relative ease. Alternatively, consider heading east of Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs for a relaxing getaway from the city that doesn’t necessarily involve snow sports. This charming village boasts an attractive location on the shores of Harrison Lake, and guests staying at the resort have access to the onsite hot mineral springs, offering a soothing and therapeutic experience.
## Activities and Experiences: What to Do in British Columbia in March
The Pacific Rim Whale Festival in Tofino, spanning from mid-March to early April, perfectly coincides with the northward migration of over 20,000 gray whales along the western coast of Vancouver Island. These magnificent creatures feed in the shallow waters, making them relatively easy to observe from the shoreline or through open ocean boat tours departing from Tofino or Ucluelet. In addition to the remarkable whale watching opportunities, festival attendees can participate in informative programs and engaging talks presented by ocean scientists, researchers, and conservationists.
Throughout March, the ski season remains in full swing across British Columbia, providing outdoor enthusiasts with ample opportunity to maximize the offerings before the weather starts to warm up significantly. Given the proximity of several top-notch ski resorts to Vancouver, consider planning a few days exploring the city before embarking on a mountain adventure. Destinations such as Whistler, Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Squamish provide excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and invigorating snowshoeing excursions.
## Key Events Taking Place in British Columbia During March
**Pacific Rim Whale Festival, Tofino:** Experience the awe-inspiring whale migration and attend insightful presentations by scientists and specialists during this celebrated festival held on Vancouver Island from mid-March to early April.
**Easter, Nationwide:** Good Friday and Easter Sunday are observed as public holidays throughout Canada, so expect potential business closures. While Easter Monday is not officially a statutory holiday, many individuals opt to take this day off, leading to continued business closures in some cases. It’s worth noting that Easter can fall in either March or April, so plan accordingly.
**Victoria Beer Week, Victoria:** British Columbia is widely recognized for its delicious and diverse selection of local microbrews. This festival, held in the picturesque town of Victoria, provides a fun and engaging opportunity to sample the offerings of more than 50 British Columbia craft brewers.
## Suggested Itinerary for Traveling to British Columbia in March
Consider the “Pacific Rim Adventure: Vancouver to Tofino Road Trip – 6 Days.” This captivating road trip, starting and ending in Vancouver, will lead you to the rugged and breathtaking coastline of Pacific Rim National Park. Enjoy overnight stays in a wilderness lodge or a cozy bed and breakfast along the coast, and dedicate three unforgettable days to exploring the pristine beaches and lush rainforest surrounding Tofino and Ucluelet, as well as the remote and captivating islands of Clayoquot Sound. This adventure provides an immersive experience of the natural beauty that British Columbia has to offer.
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