Vancouver to Kamloops: Routes, Stops & Travel Tips

There’s something about this stretch of road. You leave the Vancouver glass towers behind, and the scenery shifts within minutes. Mountains push higher. Rivers run alongside you. Small towns appear just when you’re ready for a break.

This isn’t just another highway drive. It’s a change of pace. One moment, Vancouver’s energy surrounds you, and the next, you climb into the mountains. The city slips away. The air feels different. The road stretches out, quiet and open.

Along the way, some places make you want to slow down. Forests. Canyons. Rivers that follow your route. Small towns where it’s easy to lose track of time. And views you won’t forget. You pick the stops. You set the pace. With Action Tour Guide’s self-guided audio tour, the stories come with you- no Wi-Fi, no crowds, no schedules- just a road trip done right.

 

Quick Facts: Vancouver to Kamloops at a Glance

 

• • Distance: 215 miles 

• • Drive Time: 4 to 5 hours (without stops)

• • Recommended Duration: Full-day or 2-3 days

• • Route Options: Highway 1 (Scenic) or Highway 5 (Fastest)

• • Tour Type: Self-Guided Driving Tour

• • Audio Stories: 75+ stories packed with history, culture, and fun facts

• • Best Time to Go: Spring through Fall

• • Starting Points: Vancouver or Kamloops

Route Options – Fastest vs. Most Scenic Drive

Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5): The Fastest Route

If you’re pressed for time, Highway 5 is the quickest way to Kamloops. It’s a smooth, direct drive through dramatic mountain landscapes. Expect fewer tourist stops but excellent efficiency.

Fraser Canyon (Highway 1): The Most Scenic Route

Highway 1 takes you through the stunning Fraser Canyon, where towering cliffs and winding rivers steal the show. It’s slower but ideal for travelers who want to soak in British Columbia’s natural beauty.

Optional Scenic Detours Along the Way

 

• • Othello Tunnels – A marvel of early railway engineering

• • Hell’s Gate Airtram – Thrilling views over the Fraser River

• • Bridal Falls – A beautiful spot for a photo op and picnic

Best Stops Along the Way

Vancouver to Hope

 

• • Fort Langley – The birthplace of British Columbia

• • Abbotsford – Rolling farmland and mountain backdrops

• • Vedder Canal – Perfect for a short walk

• • Chilliwack & Bridal Falls – Stretch your legs and grab a bite

• • Harrison Hot Springs (Optional) – Relax by the lakeside

Hope to Hell’s Gate

 

• • Hope – Adventure capital surrounded by rugged peaks

• • Othello Tunnels – Walk through historic railway tunnels

• • Hope Slide – Witness one of Canada’s largest landslides

Hell’s Gate to Merritt

 

• • Hell’s Gate – Ride the Airtram over the river

• • Yale Historic Site – Step back in time to the Gold Rush era

• • Nicola Valley – Scenic drive through ranch country

• • Merritt – Cowboy culture and country music heritage

Merritt to Kamloops

 

• • Coldwater and Nicola Rivers – Peaceful riverside views

• • Surrey Lake Summit – Sweeping mountain scenery

• • Logan Lake – A quiet lakeside stop

• • Kamloops Lake – Picture-perfect views before you arrive in the city

Arriving in Kamloops – Top Things to Do

Kamloops greets you with a vibrant mix of outdoor adventure and culture:

 

• • Riverside Park – Ideal for a walk or picnic

• • Kamloops Wine Trail – Sample local wines

• • BC Wildlife Park – Get close to local wildlife

• • Sun Peaks Resort (Optional extension) – Year-round fun with hiking, biking, and skiing

• • Downtown Kamloops – Great for shopping and dining

Best Time to Take This Road Trip

 

• • Spring (April-May): Wildflowers in bloom and pleasant temps

• • Summer (June-Aug): Warm, sunny days- perfect for hiking and sightseeing

• • Fall (Sept-Oct): Colorful foliage and fewer crowds

• • Winter: Best for experienced drivers due to possible snowy conditions, but Kamloops offers excellent winter sports

Travel Tips for Driving from Vancouver to Kamloops

 

• • Download the Action Tour Guide app before leaving (offline mode ready!)

• • Fuel up in Hope or Merritt—long stretches without gas stations

• • Bring layers—mountain weather can change fast

• • Snacks & Water—few stops between towns

• • Wildlife Awareness—deer and bears are familiar sights

• • EV Charging Stations—Available in Vancouver, Hope, Merritt, and Kamloops

• • Use offline maps or GPS-enabled audio tours to avoid losing signal

Packing Checklist

Sunglasses
Camera
Layers & rain gear
Snacks & water
Phone charger & power bank
Download the Action Tour Guide app & map

Ready to Hit the Road?

Open highway. Endless views. Stops that surprise you. Stories that stay with you.
No crowds. No schedules. Just the freedom to explore.
Vancouver to Kamloops. Your trip. Your pace.
Let’s get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Vancouver to Kamloops?

It takes about 4 to 5 hours without stopping. Plan for more time if you’re sightseeing along the way.

Is the Coquihalla Highway open year-round?

Yes, but expect winter driving conditions. Closures or delays can happen due to snow or ice.

Are there EV charging stations along the route?

Yes! You’ll find stations in Vancouver, Hope, Merritt, and Kamloops.

What is the most scenic route from Vancouver to Kamloops?

Highway 1 through Fraser Canyon. It offers rugged cliffs, river canyons, and historic towns for a more picturesque drive.

What are the best places to stop on the way to Kamloops?

Top stops include Fort Langley, Hope, Othello Tunnels, Hell’s Gate Airtram, Merritt, and Kamloops Lake.

Is the drive from Vancouver to Kamloops safe in winter?

It’s safe if you’re prepared. Snow and ice are common, especially on the Coquihalla Highway. Winter tires are a must.

What is Kamloops famous for?

Kamloops is known for its outdoor adventures, wineries, riverside parks, and wildlife experiences.

Can you do the Vancouver to Kamloops drive in one day?

Yes! It’s a doable day trip, but giving yourself more time means more scenic stops and a more relaxed pace.

Are there good places to eat along the route?

Try Blue Moose Coffee in Hope, restaurants in Merritt, and lots of great dining in Kamloops.

What is the best time to visit Kamloops?

Late spring through fall. Summer is great for outdoor fun, while fall brings colorful foliage and fewer crowds.

Is a self-guided audio tour a good option for this road trip?

Absolutely. It’s flexible, informative, and works offline- perfect for a relaxed, go-at-your-own-pace journey.