BC's well-maintained network of highways and roads means you are in for a smooth ride when travelling by car.
For more information regarding BC road conditions, please visit www.drivebc.com
BC Highways
Highway 1, the Trans Canada Highway, connects the province from east to west; Highway 99 (an extension of the US I-5) begins at the Canada/US border and travels into Vancouver; and Highway 97 runs south to north from Osoyoos all the way to the Yukon Territory.
Highway 37 (the Stewart-Cassiar Highway) joins Highway 97 in the Yukon. Highway 16 traverses Northern British Columbia east to west. Highway 5 travels through the Thompson Okanagan down to Hope, and Highway 20 crosses through the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. Leading to and through the Kootenay Rockies are Highways 93, 95 and 3. Ferry service from Vancouver connects you to Highway 101 on the Sunshine Coast.
On Vancouver Island, Highway 1, the Trans Canada Highway, runs from Nanaimo south to Mile Zero in Victoria. Highway 19 begins in Nanaimo and will get you to the island's central and northern communities, and Highway 4 heads west to the communities of Tofino and Ucluelet.
Car Rentals
Car rental companies are conveniently located at most commercial airports, with additional rental companies providing off-site pick-up and drop-off service. Rental companies can also be found in larger communities throughout the province. See right column for links to the major car rental companies in the province.
Taxis and Limos
Taxis and/or limos are available in all large cities and most small towns. Hours of operation and availability vary depending on company and location. Many companies accept reservations.
Laws and Safety
For your safety and the safety of others, it's essential that you acquaint yourself with BC driving laws before you set out on any driving excursion.
The speed limit on Canadian highways is usually 80-100 km (50-60 mi) per hour. In cities and towns, it's 50 km (30 mi) per hour or less. Logging trucks and other working vehicles have right-of-way on industrial roads. Driving restrictions may apply on industrial roads, so watch for signage to this effect.
Travelling in Winter
BC's mountain highways are ploughed, sanded, and salted when necessary throughout winter. But be aware that road closures may be necessary and allow extra time to reach your destination. A number of the highest highway passes are occasionally deemed avalanche-hazard zones. In such cases they will be closed to traffic while avalanche-control measures are taken. Avoid stopping in posted avalanche zones. If you plan to drive extensively in BC's interior between December and March, it is advisable to have snow tires rather than all-season tires.
Logging Roads
Logging roads are open to the public unless otherwise posted. There are no service stations on them, and some are not suitable for large RVs. These roads are built for industrial traffic and care should be taken. Be aware that logging trucks and other working vehicles have right-of-way on industrial roads; obey any restrictions that may apply on these roads as well. Weekend travel is advisable when most logging ceases. Check with local BC Visitor Centres and Forest Service offices for updates.
For more information regarding BC road conditions, please visit www.drivebc.com
Show all Car / Truck Rental Listings
Show all Taxi / Limo Listings
|