Nelson to Richmond

• Mountain Passes

  Be prepared for steep grades and potential weather changes in the mountains.
• Fuel Stops

  Princeton and Hope are excellent places to refuel.
• Traffic

  Expect heavy traffic as you approach the Lower Mainland near Richmond.
• Road Alerts

  Check DriveBC for construction or closure updates on Highway 3.
• Rest Stops

  Take breaks in small towns along the way to avoid driver fatigue.

• Winter Driving

  Winter tires are mandatory on Highway 3 from October to April.
• Wildlife

  Watch for deer and other wildlife on the highway, especially at night.
• Brake Safety

  Use lower gears on long descents to save your brakes.
• Emergency Kit

  Keep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle at all times.

• Is there a bus to Richmond?
  There is no direct bus service from Nelson to Richmond.
• How long is the drive?
  The drive takes approximately 10 hours.
• Are there mountain passes?
  Yes, the route includes several mountain passes on Highway 3.
• Is the road paved?
  Yes, the entire route is on major paved highways.
• Can I fly?
  You would need to drive to a regional airport to catch a flight to the Vancouver area.

• From Nelson, British Columbia, Canada
• To Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
• Modes

May to October for the best road conditions and mountain visibility.