How to Get Around British Columbia

Vancouver's TransLink network, including the SkyTrain rapid transit system, SeaBus passenger ferry and extensive bus routes, covers Metro Vancouver; a YVR Airport AddFare of $6.50 applies to trips starting from Vancouver International Airport. BC Ferries connects the mainland to Vancouver Island and the wider coastal islands, including Haida Gwaii, with saver fares starting from $49 one-way for a car and driver between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

Whistler is reached from Vancouver via the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99), a scenic, province-designated route rebuilt ahead of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Barkerville and Haida Gwaii both require significantly more effort to reach -- a long interior drive for Barkerville, and a flight or extended ferry journey for Haida Gwaii -- and are not practical as day trips from Vancouver or Victoria.

In Vancouver. TransLink's SkyTrain, SeaBus and buses charge adult cash fares of $3.50-$6.70 depending on zone; an adult DayPass costs $12.55. A $6.50 YVR Airport AddFare applies to trips starting from the airport.

To Vancouver Island (Victoria). BC Ferries connects the mainland to Vancouver Island, with saver fares from $49 one-way for a car and driver; seaplane and passenger-only ferry options also run between Vancouver and Victoria.

To Whistler. The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) runs from Vancouver, about a 90-minute to two-hour scenic drive.

To Barkerville. Reached via a long drive into the BC Interior near Quesnel; not accessible by public transit.

To Haida Gwaii. Reached by air or an extended ferry journey from the mainland; plan for significant travel time given the archipelago's remote location off the northern coast.