Chilliwack
Chilliwack
Prince George
Prince George
Driving

Chilliwack to Prince George

Updated: 26 May 2026

The trip from Chilliwack to Prince George is a significant journey of approximately 750 km through the interior of British Columbia. You will travel east to Hope, take the Coquihalla (Highway 5) to Kamloops, and then head north on Highway 97 through the Cariboo region. This route takes you through diverse landscapes, from mountain passes to the rolling plateaus of the north. Expect a total driving time of about 9 hours, excluding stops.

Total Distance: 750 km driving distance; 550 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Coquihalla and Highway 97 is the fastest route, taking about 9 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and cost-effective way to reach Prince George.
Compare Chilliwack to Prince George Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
9 hours
Avg Price
$120 - $160 CAD in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Highway 1 to Hope, Highway 5 to Kamloops, Highway 97 to Prince George.

Plan for an overnight stop in Williams Lake or Quesnel if you prefer not to drive 9 hours straight.

Travel Tips
  • Plan Your Stops
    Kamloops and Williams Lake are excellent places to stop for food and fuel.
  • Wildlife Awareness
    Moose and deer are common on Highway 97; avoid driving at night.
  • Fuel Management
    Keep your tank at least half full, as gas stations can be far apart in the Cariboo.
  • Road Conditions
    Check DriveBC for construction updates, as Highway 97 often has seasonal work.
  • Emergency Kit
    Carry extra water, food, and warm clothing, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Safety Tips
  • Night Driving
    Avoid driving after dark due to the high risk of wildlife collisions.
  • Fatigue Management
    Take a 15-minute break every 2 hours to stay alert.
  • Tire Safety
    Check your tire pressure before leaving, as temperature changes are significant.
  • Communication
    Download offline maps, as cell service is spotty in the northern sections.
People Also Ask
  • Is it safe to drive to Prince George?
    Yes, it is a major highway, but requires caution regarding wildlife and weather.
  • How long is the drive?
    It is approximately 9 hours of driving time.
  • Are there flights?
    You can fly from Vancouver, but there are no direct flights from Chilliwack.
  • What is the best route?
    Highway 5 to Kamloops and then Highway 97 north is the standard route.
  • Do I need winter tires?
    Yes, they are mandatory on all BC highways from October to April.
Quick Info
  • From Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
  • To Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to September for long daylight hours and stable road conditions.

Things to Do in Prince George
1
The Exploration Place
A museum and science centre in Prince George featuring local history and paleontology exhibits.
2
Cottonwood Island Nature Park
A beautiful park located at the confluence of the Nechako and Fraser Rivers, perfect for walking.
3
Ancient Forest Trail
A boardwalk trail east of Prince George featuring massive, old-growth cedar trees.
4
Prince George Railway and Forestry Museum
Showcases the industrial history that built the city, including vintage trains and machinery.
Tags
Chilliwack to Prince George drive Highway 97 BC driving to Prince George Northern BC travel Chilliwack to Prince George distance BC road trip Highway 5 Prince George travel guide