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Whether you choose the major express or scenic highway routes, the Thompson Okanagan is easy to navigate in a car. All destinations within the region are within a half- to full-day's drive from either Vancouver, Calgary (Alberta) or Edmonton (Alberta). Rental cars are available in all major cities as well as at Kelowna International and Kamloops airports.
Highways 1, 3, 5 and 97 are predominantly two-lane roadways in excellent condition, with paved shoulders, regular passing lanes and good visibility. Paved secondary roads are suitable for all vehicles, including motor homes and bicycles. Some unpaved back roads may be accessed by two-wheel drive vehicles, but 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. Speed limits on the highways average between 80 and 90 km/h (50 - 56 mph); Highways 5 (the Coquihalla) and 97C (the Coquihalla Connector) have limits as high as 110 km/h (68 mph).
Major Routes
Highway 1
Highway 1 (Trans Canada Highway) is a major east-west artery. It enters the region from Vancouver in the west and Alberta and the Kootenay Rockies in the east. From the west, the highway cuts a path through the dramatic Fraser and Thompson canyons. From the east, it winds through the massive Rocky and Columbia mountain ranges.
Highway 5
Highway 5 (Coquihalla Highway), is the express route into the Thompson Okanagan from the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region. There is a toll for this highway on the stretch between Hope and Merritt.
Highway 97
Highway 97 runs in a north-south direction from the Canada/US border crossing just south of Osoyoos, north to Cache Creek and beyond. This is also the main artery along the famous "Okanagan Wine Route", which passes by some 80 wineries in the Okanagan Valley.
Highway 97C
Highway 97C (The Okanagan Connector) is an express route linking Highway 5 (Coquihalla Highway) near Merritt with Highway 97 near Kelowna.
Highway 3
Highway 3 is a scenic east-west route close to the US border, running between Hope in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region and Medicine Hat, Alberta.
Entering from the US
Major access to the region from Washington State is via Highway 97, from the border crossing just south of Osoyoos. The Osoyoos border crossing is open 24 hours, seven days a week. Other border crossings, located at Midway and Grand Forks, have a more limited operating schedule. All crossings eventually connect with Highway 3.
The Canada Border Services Agency has more information on border crossings.
> Canada Border Services Agency website
Travelling in Winter
Although the highways are well maintained year-round, expect delays or even temporary closures on highways that cross high mountain passes. Driving in winter conditions can be a challenge, even for experienced drivers. The Coquihalla Highway and Coquihalla Connector (Highways 5 and 97C), in particular, are subject to heavy snowstorms in the winter months.
Logging Roads
The region's 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.
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