Getting Here
Getting here is easy; click on our interactive map to see interesting stops along the way.
Enjoy an epic road trip through the Similkameen Valley. Cruise our two-lane highway with some windy sections ideal for motorcycle touring. From the western headwaters in Manning Park through to Cawston, the Similkameen River connects the communities, towns and villages that dot our countryside.
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
Located 4 hours from the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), 4 hours from Spokane, Washington and 6 hours from Seattle, access the Crowsnest Hwy 3 from Vancouver, BC via Hwy 1 to Hope, BC. From Jasper, AB, drive west on Hwy 16 to Hwy 5 to Merritt. Continue south on Hwy 5A to Princeton. From Calgary, AB take Hwy 1 to Highway 97, on to Hwy 3A from Penticton or Hwy 3 from the south end of Alberta. From the US, enter the valley at the junction of Hwy 97 and Hwy 3 at the border crossing at Osoyoos or Nighthawk where the Similkameen River ventures south into Washington.
- 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.
For the following maps: right-click or cmd-click and “save image as” to download.
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.