Prince George to Penticton British Columbia

Moved from Roads and Routes to RVing in Canada

"mountain pass on Highway 97C" Depends on the time of year and weather, check drive BC as it can get ugly up there in the winter which can start in early fall for that area.

The most efficient route is bcexplorer's first choice. 97 through Vernon and Kelowna is not as much fun but definitely more scenic.

Only 3 real options. (I have lived in both Prince George and Penticton and made these trips several times.)

1)Highway 97 south to Cache Creek then Highway 1 east to Highway 5 turnoff just west of Kamloops. Follow Highway 5 south to Merrit then Highway 97C to Westbank BC then Highway 97 south to Penticton. Total distance is 740 KM (459 miles.)

2)Highway 97 south to Cache Creek then Highway 1 east to Kamloops then Highway 97 south down through Vernon, Kelowna then Penticton. Total distance is 760 KMs (460 miles.)

Both routes have their advantages/disadvantages. First route goes over a mountain pass on Highway 97C (Pennask Summit- 5760 feet) but the modern 4 lane highway is well maintained and is void of driving through heavier traffic.

The second route takes you just east through Kamloops then south into the Okanagan Valley. No high mountain passes and much more of a leisurely drive if you want to see tourist attractions etc.

3) Highway 16 east from Prince George then down to Highway 5 to Kamloops then either the last leg of the first 2 options above to Penticton.

BC 97 to Kamloops. 5 and 97C are mostly divided, but involves some climbing. Probably the fastest. 97 via Vernon is flatter, but has some urban driving. 97c via Ashcroft has a good climb at the start, but mining trucks use it all the time.