Is the Coquihalla Highway safe?

Yes, it is a major divided highway, but it requires caution during winter storms.

How long is the drive from Surrey to Kelowna?

It typically takes 4.5 hours under normal traffic conditions.

Are there buses to Kelowna?

Yes, Ebus provides daily service from the Lower Mainland to Kelowna.

Do I need winter tires?

Yes, they are legally required on most BC highways from October to April.

What is the best route?

The Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) is the standard and most efficient route.

Surrey

Kelowna

Flight Driving

Surrey to Kelowna

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Surrey to Kelowna covers approximately 390 kilometers through the rugged Cascade Mountains. Most travelers prefer driving via Highway 1 and the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) for the fastest transit. Alternatively, regional flights connect the Lower Mainland to Kelowna International Airport in under an hour. The route offers dramatic elevation changes and scenic vistas of the Fraser Valley. Expect a travel time of roughly 4.5 hours by car depending on traffic near the Port Mann Bridge.

Total Distance: 390 km driving distance; 270 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from YVR takes 55 minutes, though total travel time including transit to the airport is 3 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option for groups, costing roughly 70 dollars in fuel.

Compare Surrey to Kelowna Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	55 mins	4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	150-300 CAD	60-80 CAD in fuel
Operator	WestJet	Personal Vehicle
Route	Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Kelowna International Airport (YLW).	Highway 1 East to Hope, then Highway 5 North to Merritt, and Highway 97C East.
Tip	Book flights from YVR as Surrey lacks a commercial airport.	Check DriveBC for Coquihalla summit weather conditions before departing.

Travel Tips

Tire Safety
Winter tires are mandatory on the Coquihalla Highway from October to April.
Traffic Timing
Avoid leaving Surrey on Friday afternoons to bypass heavy weekend getaway traffic.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in Hope before starting the mountain climb to avoid higher prices in the interior.
Rest Stops
Use the Zopkios brake check area for a safe place to stretch your legs.
Booking
Book accommodation in advance during the peak summer months as Kelowna sells out quickly.

Safety Tips

Mountain Weather
Conditions change rapidly on the Coquihalla; carry emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Wildlife
Watch for deer and moose crossing the highway, especially during dawn and dusk.
Steep Grades
Use lower gears when descending steep mountain passes to prevent brake overheating.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent cellular dead zones between Hope and Merritt.