Nourishing diversions along the Sea-to-Sky Highway and North to Mount Robson

From sea level in Vancouver to Mount Robson’s Rocky Mountain high, you’re guaranteed to feast on magnificent scenery. But when it’s time for sustenance of a different sort, treat yourself to a heaping helping of Left Coast vibes at one of these delicious pit-stops along the way.

Barn Nork Aharn Thai

Another 50 km farther along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, head to Riverside Resort on the banks of the feisty Fitzsimmons Creek in Whistler. This is the unlikely home of a teeny tiny restaurant that has earned a giant reputation for its deliciously authentic Thai food. Barn Nork has just four tables, so it’s wise to call a week ahead to reserve—otherwise, plan to order take-out and enjoy the nature views from the licensed outdoor patio or nearby green spaces. The opening hours are short—it’s best to check before you head over—so wait times can sometimes be long, but the fan-favourite green curry, beef Massaman and pad Thai are worth the patience. Bonus for the canine crowd: dogs are welcome here!

The Wild Flour Cafe

In the postcard-pretty town of Clearwater—1.5 hours north of Kamloops along the Yellowhead Highway—you’ll find Wild Flour, a popular café offering locally sourced and scratch-made soups, breads and baked goods. This is the perfect place to pick up a healthy and delicious picnic lunch to enjoy on the Blue River trail network about an hour’s drive farther along Highway 5. Be sure to check out the new pedestrian suspension bridge that connects trails on both sides of the dramatically scenic river. Or, drive an hour farther to Tete Jaune Cache and turn onto Highway 16 towards Rearguard Falls Provincial Park in the shadow of Mt. Robson. In August, you may be lucky enough to see the rush of returning Chinook salmon trying to leap the falls to get to their spawning grounds after an arduous journey up the Fraser River. (And remember: expect changeable weather regardless of the season—be prepared to layer up!)