Is Highway 3 safe in winter?

It is safe but requires winter tires and caution due to steep grades and snow.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 11 to 12 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there trains to Burnaby?

No passenger rail service exists between Claresholm and Burnaby.

What is the best route?

Highway 3 is the most scenic and direct route for road travelers.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic route within Canada.

Burnaby

Flight Driving

Claresholm to Burnaby

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Claresholm to Burnaby spans approximately 950 kilometers via the scenic Crowsnest Highway. Most travelers prefer driving through the Rocky Mountains on Highway 3 to reach the Lower Mainland. Alternatively, you can drive to Calgary International Airport for a direct flight to Vancouver. The drive takes roughly 11 hours depending on mountain pass conditions. This route offers stunning views of the Kootenays and the Fraser Valley.

Total Distance: 950 km driving, 620 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Calgary to Vancouver is the fastest total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups or families.

Compare Claresholm to Burnaby Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours including transit	11 hours
Avg Price	$300-$600	$150-$200 in fuel
Operator	WestJet	Personal Vehicle
Route	YYC to YVR	Highway 2 to Highway 3, then Highway 1
Tip	Book your shuttle from YVR to Burnaby via the SkyTrain Canada Line.	Check DriveBC for avalanche control closures in Kootenay Pass.

Travel Tips

Mountain Driving
Ensure your vehicle has winter tires if traveling between October and April.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in larger towns like Creston or Hope to avoid high mountain gas prices.
Time Zones
Remember that British Columbia is in the Pacific Time Zone, one hour behind Alberta.
Traffic
Avoid entering the Lower Mainland during weekday rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular service is intermittent in the Crowsnest Pass.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for elk and deer on Highway 3, especially during dawn and dusk.
Weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly; carry emergency supplies like blankets and water.
Road Conditions
Monitor the DriveBC website for real-time updates on highway closures.
Fatigue
Take breaks every three hours to maintain alertness on winding mountain roads.