 Highway 24, Tom Ryan photo Highway 20, known locally as the Freedom Highway, is the region's east-west artery, linking Williams Lake and Highway 97 with Bella Coola on the Central Coast, a distance of 450km (281mi). Approximately 90 percent of the route is paved while the remainder is gravel. Bella Coola and several remote coastal villages are also (and perhaps more easily) accessible by scheduled BC Ferries passenger/vehicle ferry services from Port Hardy on the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Car rental companies are conveniently located in major cities and towns and at the area's two regional airports. Major Routes Highway 97Highway 97 is BC's longest highway, running in the entire north-south length of the province. The route traverses 430 km (267 mi) through Cariboo between Cache Creek and Prince George. This well-maintained, two-laned, paved route is the Cariboo's lifeline and most of the region's major towns are all located along it. Highway 26 If your destination is Barkerville Historic Town, follow Highway 26 east from Quesnel. Highway 24 Anglers looking for prime fishing country will find it along Highway 24, also known as the Fishing Highway. Highway 20 Highway 20 is the region's east-west artery, linking Williams Lake and Highway 97 with Bella Coola on the Central Coast, a distance of 450 km (281 mi). Approximately 90 per cent of the route is paved while the remainder is gravel. BC Ferries provides passenger/vehicle service from Bella Coola to several remote coastal villages en route to Port Hardy on Vancouver Island. Driving in Winter
Although Highway 97 and Highway 20 are well maintained year-round, expect delays or even temporary closures during the winter months, as the region may experience heavy snowfalls. Please note that driving in winter conditions can be a challenge even for experienced drivers. Logging Roads
The region's network of logging roads are open to the public unless otherwise posted. There are no petrol 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.
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