Sea to Sky Archives · The BC Ale Trail /category/sea-to-sky/ Arrive thirsty, leave inspired. Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:23:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://ef5pdbk7uqr.exactdn.com/app/uploads/2016/09/cropped-bc-ale-trail_favicon-a.png?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=90&webp=90&avif=80&sharp=1&resize=32%2C32&ssl=1 Sea to Sky Archives · The BC Ale Trail /category/sea-to-sky/ 32 32 Patio Perfection: The Best Brewery Patios in BC as voted by you! https://bcaletrail.ca/patio-perfect-the-best-brewery-patios-in-bc-as-voted-by-you/ Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:00:54 +0000 https://bcaletrail.ca/?p=60896 There’s something special about patio season in British Columbia. Long summer days, fresh local beer, and a seat in the sunshine have a way of bringing people together. From waterfront decks and mountain-view taprooms to urban patios tucked into vibrant neighbourhoods, brewery patios offer some of the best places to gather, unwind, and enjoy the … Continued

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There’s something special about patio season in British Columbia. Long summer days, fresh local beer, and a seat in the sunshine have a way of bringing people together.

From waterfront decks and mountain-view taprooms to urban patios tucked into vibrant neighbourhoods, brewery patios offer some of the best places to gather, unwind, and enjoy the flavours of BC. Whether you’re meeting friends after work, sharing a meal with family, or spending an afternoon with your dog by your side, these outdoor spaces help make the most of the season.

With so many exceptional brewery patios across the province, narrowing down a list is no easy task and this list was created by polling you — our BC Ale Trail fans. This collection highlights some of BC’s most memorable brewery patios, each offering its own unique atmosphere and scenery. These are brewery patios worth adding to your summer plans. 

the open air patio at Barnside Brewing in Delta, BC
Barnside Brewing (photo provided)

Barnside Brewing

Situated amongst the fields of hops, cranberries, and grazing sheep, Barnside Brewing’s four-season patio is one of the best places in BC to experience craft beer, conversation and community, according to craft beer fans. The dog-friendly space welcomes everyone in for award-winning craft beer, tasty eats and great company.

Originally built as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the patio was a way for the brewery to welcome customers while taking advantage of relaxed rules around outdoor service.  Since then, the space has evolved to include a covered, heated patio that’s cozy in all seasons, plus a grassy area perfect for soaking in the sun in a lounge chair with a cold craft beer in hand. Barnside won the BC Ale Trail Best Brewery Experience award in 2023, and the feature blog is well worth a read to learn more about the brewery’s origins and the team’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients and community.

But perhaps Barnside’s fans say it best:

“It is a place where hops have swagger, meals have personality, and time seems to lean back in its chair!” – @tamarastanderwick via Instagram

the covered, heated patio and open air grassy patio at Barnside Brewing in Delta, BC Barnside Brewing - Delta - BC Ale Trail Barnside Brewing, Delta - BC Ale Trail Barnside Brewing - Delta - BC Ale Trail

Find Barnside Brewing in Delta, BC, on the South of the Fraser Ale Trail


Locality Brewing

Locality Brewing has a truly unique outdoor space. Located on McInnis Farms, the brewery itself is housed in a converted barn, and is surrounded by spaces for visitors to enjoy – including a skate park! Sit overlooking the pond – complete with a floating stage in a natural amphitheatre – or nestled amongst the hop vines. Walk the trails to get a look at the ripening barley, and watch the progress of the hops growing next to the brewery. On rainy days, take advantage of one of the mini a-frame structures, or maybe a converted grain silo, each with its own heater or fire pit. Or, enjoy the sun at one of the many tables or benches around the farm. The new lounge area is the perfect shady spot to kick back and relax on hot summer days – comfy, covered, and made for sipping something cold. There’s a food truck on site serving up juicy bison burgers, and Locality is now producing its own cider as well! Locality is kid and pet friendly, and a great destination for that weekend ride or Sunday hike.

The Lodge at Locality Brewing in Langley, BC Live at the Lagoon at Locality Brewing this was a collab event with Camp Brewing, Langley, Langley Ale Trail Live at the Lagoon - a live music event - at Locality Brewing, with bands playing from a floating stage on the lagoon

Find Locality Brewing in Langley, BC, on the Langley Ale Trail


Lillooet Brewing Company

The patio at Lillooet Brewing Company offers some of the best mountain views around, with the mighty Fraser River flowing right past — it’s truly a one-of-a-kind setting. Keep an eye out for the Rocky Mountaineer to go past as well! They’ve got a huge, pet-friendly space with sun protection and misters to keep cool on hot summer days, games, and a cozy fire pit for the colder months. The patio is open year-round and perfect for a pint in any season. When voting, many fans also made sure to note the tasty snacks available at the brewery, plus the Sowilo Food Truck that’s on site and open on weekends from May to October.

panoramic views from the patio at Lillooet Brewing Company in Lillooet, BC umbrellas and misters help to keep cool on the patio at panoramic views from the patio at Lillooet Brewing Company in Lillooet, BC a pint of craft beer sits on a table on the patio, with a growler holding fresh flowers at Lillooet Brewing Company in Lillooet, BC

Find Lillooet Brewing Company in Lillooet, BC, on the Sea to Sky Ale Trail


The Patch Brewery

One of the newest additions to the BC craft beer community, The Patch Brewery has quickly become a fan favourite! Joining the small number of farm-based breweries in the province, they use their own barley in the brews, along with farm-grown ingredients in the kitchen that currently serves up artisan pizzas.

From the Beer Barn (the outdoor bar) to the picnic benches, the Patch’s spacious picnic-style patio features plenty of room for groups of all sizes to relax and enjoy the season. With exciting new menu additions on the way, it’s the perfect spot for friends, families, and beer lovers to gather, unwind, and soak up the community atmosphere over great food and fresh craft beer.

an aerial view of The Patch Brewery's large covered patio and pic-nic like green space in Maple Ridge, BC
The Patch Brewery in Maple Ridge, BC (photo: City of Maple Ridge)

Find The Patch Brewery in Maple Ridge, BC, on the Maple Ridge Ale Trail


Driftwood Brewing

The Driftwood Brewery patio has organically become a bustling community hub in Esquimalt. Featuring 16+ taps of fresh beer, including one-off releases and pilot experimental beers, local cider and wine, and Driftwood Spirits crafted cocktails, plus a full menu from Dumpling Drop. The folks at Dumpling Drop work out of the Driftwood kitchen, serving a Thai-inspired menu featuring their famous hand-rolled dumplings and bao buns. Open year-round, the patio is always buzzing with regulars, visitors, and, of course, patio pups.

the patio at Driftwood Brewery in Victoria, BC cheers - beers in the sun on the patio at Driftwood Brewery in Victoria, BC

Find Driftwood Brewery in Victoria on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail


Camp Beer Co.

Camp Beer Co’s patio is the basecamp for good times in Langley – a laid-back space surrounded by greenery, picnic tables, string lights, and a fire pit that makes it feel like camping without leaving the city. With live music on the Camphitheatre stage, a retractable awning, glass walls for colder nights, and a dog-friendly atmosphere, the patio pairs perfectly with friendly table service to deliver craft beer adventures year-round.

Camp also won the BC Ale Trail Best Brewery Experience award in 2022 – it’s safe to say that their relaxing vibes and welcoming atmosphere make for the perfect urban escape.

the patio spaces at Camp Beer Co in Langley, BC (photo provided) with fire pits and live music, the patio at Camp Beer Co feels like a campground sing-a-long the large patio space under a retractable awning at Camp Beer Co in Langley, BC

Find Camp Beer Co in Langley, BC, on the Langley Ale Trail


Farmhouse Brewing Co.

Farmhouse Brewing Co. is another of BC’s unique farm-based breweries, with an expansive outdoor space perfect in any weather. Choose from the covered and heated patio – the firebowl is the perfect place to cozy up in the winter or during a summer rainstorm – or enjoy the tented picnic area in summer, or drinks-only tables by the chicken coop. The regular picnic area includes umbrella-covered tables and a wood fire pit, ideal for cozying up in the evening. Whether you want full shade, to soak in the sun, or something in between, there’s a table that’s perfect for you – and best of all, they’re all pet-friendly.

Bring the whole family – kids and dogs: there is a family-friendly picnic area conveniently located near the professional putting green, full-sized playground, and greenspace. Farmhouse is a perfect place to unwind, in sunshine or rain.

the outdoor areas at Farmhouse Brewing Co in Chilliwack, BC
Farmhouse Brewing Co in Chilliwack, BC (photo provided)

Find Farmhouse Brewing Co. in Chilliwack, BC, on the Fraser Valley Ale Trail


Fern + Cedar Brewing

Built from the ground up in downtown Qualicum Beach, Fern + Cedar Brewing isn’t just a spot for great beer; it’s a full-on community hangout. A little sanctuary where dogs are welcome, friendships are fuel, and craft runs deep. And the patio is a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. Heated when it’s chilly, wide open and bright when it’s sunny. Good tunes, yard games, fire pits with lounge chairs, and a vibe that says “you’re exactly where you need to be” are what you’ll find every time you stop by. Bring your whole family (including your dog), your friends, or just your thirst for something local and delicious. Every pint and plate at Fern + Cedar is a testament to the brewery’s commitment to quality and community. “Come for the beer, stay for the comfort.”

two people sit with pints of craft beer around a fire pit on the patio at Fern + Cedar Brewing in Qualicum Beach, BC Fern + Cedar Brewing in Qualicum Beach, BC

Find Fern + Cedar Brewing in Qualicum Beach, BC, on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail


Abandoned Rail Brewing Co

Abandoned Rail’s expansive field- and trail-side patios offer a variety of options for you to relax in. There is a grassy area set right beside the brewery’s barley field with classic beer fest-style tables and lounge chairs. You could also opt to sit in the shade under the plum trees or the rows of cherry trees. You’ll also find a mini climbing wall and slide for the kiddos in this space. Lastly, there is the patio attached to the tasting room, equipped with its own bar and misters to beat the Okanagan summer heat.

Abandoned Rail Brewing Co's patio with misters and its own outdoor bar in Penticton, BC shady seating under the fruit trees at Abandoned Rail Brewing Co in Penticton, BC umbrella covered tables next to the barley field at Abandoned Rail Brewing Co in Penticton, BC

Find Abandoned Rail Brewing Co in Penticton on the Penticton Ale Trail


Field House Brewing – ABBY

The Field House ABBY Patio is a slice of backyard bliss where cold beer, fresh food, and laid-back vibes meet under the open sky. Every Thursday, the lawn comes alive with Field Sessions: live music from local artists that turns an evening into a community gathering. Kick back in lawn chairs, stretch out on picnic blankets, or grab a spot at one of the rustic tables. With a covered, heated patio for those “summer-ish” days, and a family- and dog-friendly setup, it’s the perfect space for slow hangs, sunset beers, and all the fresh air goodness.

The sunny patio and beer lawn at Field House Brewing Co ABBY in Abbosford a flight of craft beer with views of the beer lawn at Field House Brewing ABBY in Abbotsford, BC Field House Brewing on the BC Ale Trail. covered seating areas and patio spaces at Field House Brewing ABBY in Abbotsford, BC

Find Field House Brewing ABBY in Abbotsford, BC, on the Fraser Valley Ale Trail


The Beer Farmers

The patio at The Beer Farmers brewery is a serene gathering spot tucked into the heart of the Pemberton Meadows farming community, with a view that just can’t be beat. Another of BC’s unique farm-based breweries, it’s located on a fourth-generation family farm. Guests will be surrounded by fields full of potatoes, barley, highland cows, hops, veggies, flowers and other amazing locally grown crops. Enjoy a glimpse of the country life as locals and tourists alike arrive by horse, bike, and tractor. Pemberton is well known for its hiking trails and extensive cycling opportunities – from challenging mountain biking to easy off-road trails. And cold beer on a patio with spectacular views after your hike or ride – what could be better?

The Beer Farmers brewery and patio with incredible mountain views in Pemberton, BC The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC

Find The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC, on the Sea to Sky Ale Trail


Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.


Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2025 and was based on a compilation of audience submissions and recommendations. It has since been updated to reflect current information and provide a more comprehensive guide to some of BC’s best brewery patios.

The post Patio Perfection: The Best Brewery Patios in BC as voted by you! appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

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Beer Off the Beaten Path in Lillooet and Pemberton https://bcaletrail.ca/beer-off-the-beaten-path-in-lillooet-and-pemberton/ Wed, 09 Nov 2022 09:00:51 +0000 https://bcaletrail.ca/?p=32215 Relatively few travellers venture north of Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway. I’d always wanted to explore the Pemberton Valley and beyond, so I continued my beer-hiking trip from Kelowna to the town of Lillooet. The Fraser River carves through rugged mountain terrain here, hours from the nearest big city. It was a wild, … Continued

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Relatively few travellers venture north of Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway. I’d always wanted to explore the Pemberton Valley and beyond, so I continued my beer-hiking trip from Kelowna to the town of Lillooet. The Fraser River carves through rugged mountain terrain here, hours from the nearest big city. It was a wild, yet welcoming place to pull off Highway 99 for some local suds.

Lillooet Brewing Company

New in September 2022, Lillooet Brewing wasn’t yet open during my trip. Co-owner Sam Quinlan invited me to stop by the brewery for a tour. I was greeted by the sweet smell of a stout brewing when I arrived, and brewer Sacha Bordas took some time away from the brewhouse to show me around. 

Housed in a former feed store, Lillooet Brewing offers a gorgeous interior space with mountain and river views. Potted plants and local wildlife photos decorate the walls. A mural behind the bar — created by artist Scott Partridge — also depicts local wildlife. There’s a clear theme throughout: Lillooet Brewing is all about wildlife conservation and stewardship and sees itself as a de-facto “National Park headquarters” for the area.

But first, beer. Sacha graduated from Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s brewing program in Langley. He’d worked with Sam — founder of HOOH Hops — to source hops, and the two eventually began planning a brewery together in Lillooet. Now open, the tap list includes Lillooet’s flagship Mule Deer Lager, Northern Pygmy Owl IPA, Mountain Bluebird Belgian Wit, and Western Screech Owl Pale Ale. All Lillooet Brewing beers use Canadian hops and barley.

I tasted Mule Deer Lager and Mountain Bluebird Belgian Wit. Both beers poured beautifully in Lillooet’s custom glassware and were great examples of their respective styles. I get the sense that these brews are best enjoyed right here in the taproom for the full experience. Or perhaps on a mountainside. To that end, Lillooet Brewing sells beer to-go in cans for your next outdoor adventure (always remember to pack it in, pack it out).

A pint of beer in Lillooet Brewing's custom glassware Outdoor patio and view at Lillooet Brewing

QR codes on the cans link to Lillooet Wild, a partnership project between Lillooet Brewing and Lillooet Naturalist Society. An educational resource, the site features information on local wildlife including habitat, conservation concerns, and what you can do to help. Artwork and branding are consistent across the taproom, cans, and website, with Scott Partridge’s distinctive art style displayed throughout. Even the (five!) bathrooms each have a unique animal theme.

It’s clear that Sam and Sacha care deeply about wildlife conservation. They are equally passionate about beer and building a destination brewery in their community. I can’t wait to return to try more of Lillooet Brewing’s beer on my next BC Ale Trail road trip.

Taps ready to pour at Lillooet Brewing
Lillooet beer taps

Lillooet Brewing offers 12 taps, including their own beer and guest taps. The space is family and dog-friendly, and you can bring your own food. Eventually, food trucks will be available as well.

From Lillooet to Pemberton

From Lillooet, the next nearest brewery is 95km away in Pemberton. The mountainous stretch of Highway 99 between the two towns is simply stunning. I pulled off multiple times for photos — noting the grizzly bear warning signs. From Seton Lake to views of Mt. Brew, the scenic stretch south of Lillooet leads to lakeside provincial parks outside of Pemberton. I stopped by Joffre Lakes Provincial Park for a short jaunt to Lower Joffre Lake in the rain. Another adventure to add to my “next time” list: hiking to these glacier-fed lakes in better weather.

Roadside views on Highway 99 Lower Joffre Lake

Pemberton Brewing Co.

Located just 30 minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton is considerably quieter than its neighbouring resort. My first stop in town was of course the brewery. Established in 2018, Pemberton Brewing is tucked into an industrial park with views of nearby Mt. Currie. I immediately appreciated the taproom’s chill vibe and relaxed, woodsy cabin feel. Tom Petty and classic rock tunes played as I sipped a dank and delicious Cream Puff NE Pale Ale. 

 

The outdoor patio at Pemberton Brewing Co. Pemberton Brewing Co in Pemberton, BC

Pemberton Brewing’s tap list was mostly made up of IPAs and pale ales, along with a couple of sours. This didn’t surprise me at all given their demographic. Pemberton Brewing is especially popular with mountain bikers. Nearby trails (including one called “Cream Puff”) criss-cross hillsides above the brewery. And if there’s one thing bikers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts want after an outing — it’s a cold, hoppy brew. 

Pemberton Valley Lodge

As the late summer sunset, I was ready to settle in for the night. Pemberton Valley Lodge is just 6km from the brewery — conveniently located at the edge of town. Having never visited Pemberton before, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But all expectations were exceeded when I pulled up and checked into this modern, comfortable mountain lodge.

Pemberton Valley Lodge
Pemberton Valley Lodge

A pair of chilled Coast Mountain Crystal Chair Pilsners greeted me upon arrival. I cracked one open and ordered takeout from the nearby Fish and Rice Sushi Restaurant. After a long day on the road, relaxing in the room was a great way to wind down. 

Coast Mountain Brewing's Crystal Chair Pils A hot cup of Hammer Roasting coffee

My spacious suite had all the comforts of home — and then some. The kitchen, fireplace, and balcony were welcome perks. But my favourite personal touch was the French Press, complete with a bag of Hammer Roasting Coffee from Whistler. I brewed up a batch in the morning and enjoyed it on my balcony, overlooking the outdoor pool, hot tub, and surrounding mountains. 

The outdoor pool and hot tub at Pemberton Lodge Pemberton Valley Lodge

Finally, one incredible amenity worth noting is Pemberton Valley Lodge’s guest bike program. Guests can borrow complimentary mountain bikes, while also enjoying access to secure bike storage, spare locks, a bike wash, and a tuning station. If you’re a cyclist, why stay anywhere else? I’m already planning my next trip to Pemberton and Lillooet with at least a couple of nights here!

The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC

Heading Home

Unfortunately, my time in Pemberton was short and I missed stopping at The Beer Farmers (shown above). Beer made on a farm is right up my alley, so I’ll be sure to visit on a return trip. Instead, I headed to Whistler to explore the Sea to Sky Ale Trail and experience the annual Whistler Village Beer Festival. Until next time, BC!

For more beer and hiking throughout the PNW, check out our book, Beer Hiking Pacific Northwest.

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