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Kelowna Beer Institute

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City of Gastronomy

Getting to Kelowna by car is easy and rewarding. Whether you’re coming from the coast, the Rockies, or the Pacific Northwest, the drive offers some of the most scenic routes in British Columbia. With mountain passes, lakeside stretches, and vineyard views, your road trip to Kelowna is part of the adventure. 


For current road conditions and travel advisories, visit DriveBC.com before you hit the road.

Main Routes

Kelowna sits along Highway 97, the main north-south route through the Okanagan Valley. Depending on where you’re starting, here’s what to expect:

  • From Vancouver: about 4.5 hours via Highway 1 and 97C (the Okanagan Connector).
  • From Calgary: about 7.5 hours via Highway 1 through Golden and Revelstoke.
  • From Kamloops: about 2 hours via Highway 97.
  • From Penticton or Vernon: under 1 hour via Highway 97.
  • From Seattle, Washington: about 5.5 hours via I-5, Highway 1, and 97C, crossing the border at Abbotsford.

Each route showcases a different side of BC, from rugged mountain passes to sparkling lakes and wine country vistas.

Scenic Stops and Side Trips

Make the journey part of the experience by exploring a few highlights on your way to Kelowna:

  • Hope: Walk the historic Othello Tunnels and see the Fraser Canyon cliffs.
  • Merritt: Known for its country music roots and mountain scenery.
  • Penticton & Summerland: Stop for beaches, wineries, and farm stands.
  • Vernon: Visit Kalamalka Lake Lookout for stunning turquoise views.
  • Osoyoos: Canada’s warmest spot, surrounded by vineyards and desert landscapes.
  • Revelstoke: Ideal for overnight stays for those longer drives, with waterfalls, nearby hot springs, and Rogers Pass views.

For more inspiration, explore the Rainforest to Rockies route, which passes through the Okanagan and showcases some of BC’s most breathtaking road trip scenery.

Car Rentals and EV Travel

If you’re flying into Kelowna, car rentals are available at the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and throughout the city. For electric-vehicle drivers, Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley are EV-friendly, with charging stations at hotels, downtown, and near attractions.

Seasonal Driving Tips

Kelowna is accessible year-round, but conditions can change with the seasons.

  • Winter: Snow is common in mountain passes from October to April. Winter tires or chains are required on most BC highways during this time.
  • Spring and Fall: Expect variable temperatures and wildlife crossings.
  • Summer: Warm weather and long days make for perfect road trips, but plan ahead for long-weekend traffic.

Getting Around Once You’re Here

Kelowna is easy to navigate by car, with scenic routes leading to wineries, beaches, and mountain viewpoints. Parking is available throughout the city, including downtown and along the waterfront.