Getting Here
Getting here is easy; click on our interactive map to see interesting stops along the way.
The Scenic Crowsnest Highway (BC Highway 3) runs straight through the Similkameen Valley. The Similkameen Valley section runs from Hope to the junction of BC Highway 97, gateway to the Okanagan Valley at Osoyoos in the Thompson-Okanagan Region of BC’s Interior. If you were to drive the valley from end to end, you’d cover 111 miles (180 km). From Manning Park in the west to Kaleden (Highway 3A) or Osoyoos (Hwy 3) in the east., both intersect Highway 97. How long it takes to drive it will be up to you, just mind the speed limits here!
View Similkameen Valley Map
Getting to the Similkameen Valley is easy
You can access BC Highway 3 from Vancouver via the Trans Canada Highway 1 in Hope. While if you’re coming from Jasper, Alberta, you’ll connect from the Coquihalla Highway, BC Highway 5A. Travellers from Calgary will connect to BC Highway 3A linking the Crowsnest to Penticton. Getting here from the US, you will enter the valley at the junction of Highways 97 and 3 near Osoyoos.
- Calgary to Princeton — 9 hours
- Kamloops to Princeton — 2 hours
- Kelowna to Princeton — 3 hours
- Vancouver to Princeton — 3 hours
- Calgary to Princeton — 9 hours
Take the Bus
Mountain Man Mike’s Bus Service can take you from Kaslo to Vancouver, via the Similkameen with stops in between. Pick up and drop off is available in Osoyoos, Keremeos, and Princeton. This unique bus runs on recycled fry oil. You can also follow them on Facebook.
Airports
If flying is more your style, you can access the Similkameen by private charter flight from airport hubs in Vancouver, Kelowna, Kamloops and Penticton.
Reserve ahead
We’re not your typical tourism destination. In spring and summer, we recommend you book your accommodation in advance. That goes for camping, too. You can make reservations at private campgrounds and at certain parks. Reservations can also be made at BC Parks government campsites.
Our Visitor Centres are located in Princeton, Keremeos and seasonally in Hedley. Each centre has Wi-Fi access and our staff can answer any questions you may have. In addition, they can provide you with information, directions, advice, local knowledge and assist with making your reservations. While you’re there, be sure to pick up some brochures, maps, and other essential travel information.
View Princeton Map
View Princeton Walking Tour Map
View Princeton bronze sculpture Tour Map
View Keremeos/Cawston Map
View Hedley Map
View Tulameen Map
View Coalmont Map
Cruise the Crowsnest Highway 3 from Hope, BC to the Alberta border and immerse yourself in something real.
From Manning Park to Christina Lake you will travel through wide-open spaces. Hike a mountain trail, float the Similkameen River, visit fruit stands, markets and farm-to-table restaurants. Sip award-winning wines & ciders. Relax at resorts, rustic inns or unique B&B’s. Golf, fish, bike and swim or bask in the sun on a beach. Catch a piece of history or learn something new. With so much to experience, we guarantee lasting memories! Visit us in the Similkameen Valley, Osoyoos and Boundary Country.
Don’t forget to share your experiences with us #cruisethecrowsnest.
