British Columbia’s intricate relationship with nature, from early attempts at control to later efforts to celebrate it, is reflected in the locations that have advanced to the final four of the Search for B.C.’s Roadside Attraction. According to Bonne Zabolotney, a design professor at Emily Carr University, immersive and authentic experiences have taken precedence over traditional icons and monuments in the selection process. The public and tourists seem to appreciate the unique harmony between the built environment and the natural world in British Columbia.
On Vancouver Island, MacMillan Bloedel, a prominent forestry company, played a significant role for almost a century. In 1944, H.R. MacMillan generously donated the picturesque land surrounding Cameron Lake to the provincial government. This donation preserved a stand of majestic Douglas fir trees that continue to captivate visitors, especially against the backdrop of younger trees. Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park, a popular site, faces challenges due to limited parking space, as noted by Jolleen Dick from the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The Othello Tunnels exemplify the province’s determination to overcome natural obstacles, as seen in the construction of the Kettle Valley Railway in the 1910s near Hope. Gemma Taylor, an outdoor travel adventure blogger, highlighted the arduous construction process of the tunnels, which eventually became a recreational area in the 1980s after the railway abandoned that section in 1961.
These two sites represent different narratives of human connection to the land, cherished by both locals and tourists today. The competition to determine B.C.’s Best Roadside Attraction intensifies as Cathedral Grove and Othello Tunnels vie for a spot in the championship round.
After identifying the best small town, lake, and symbol in British Columbia, the Search for B.C.’s Best Roadside Attraction now focuses on the final four contenders. Readers are invited to vote for their favorite between Cathedral Grove and Othello Tunnels, with the winners advancing to the ultimate round to crown a champion just before Labour Day.
Voting for this matchup remains open until 8 p.m. PT on Tuesday. Let the best roadside attraction prevail and claim the title.