Flight
Driving
Surrey to Prince George
Updated: 26 May 2026
Prince George is the gateway to Northern British Columbia. From Surrey, you can drive north via Highway 1 and Highway 97 (the Cariboo Highway). This route takes you through the scenic Fraser Valley and the rolling hills of the Cariboo region. Alternatively, you can fly from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Prince George Airport (YXS). The drive is a classic BC road trip through diverse landscapes.
Total Distance: Driving distance 780 km; straight-line air distance 520 km.
Fastest Way
Direct flight from Vancouver (YVR) to Prince George (YXS).
Cheapest Way
Driving via Highway 97.
Compare Surrey to Prince George Routes
|
Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hour 15 mins | 9 hours |
| Avg Price | $200 - $400 | $150 - $250 |
| Operator | WestJet | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | YVR to YXS. | Hwy 1 to Hope, then Hwy 5 to Kamloops, then Hwy 97 to Prince George. |
| Tip | Direct flights are frequent and convenient. | Stop in Williams Lake for a break. |
Travel Tips
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Road ConditionsCheck DriveBC for winter road reports before driving the Cariboo Highway.
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FuelGas stations are plentiful along Highway 97.
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AccommodationBook hotels in advance if visiting during major events or conferences.
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WeatherPrince George winters are colder than Surrey; pack accordingly.
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DiningTry the local restaurants downtown for a taste of Northern BC cuisine.
Safety Tips
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Winter DrivingWinter tires are mandatory on Highway 97 from October to April.
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WildlifeDeer and moose are common on the highway; stay alert.
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EmergencyKeep an emergency kit in your car, especially during winter months.
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FatigueTake regular breaks; the drive is long and requires focus.
People Also Ask
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Is the drive scenic?Yes, the Cariboo region offers beautiful forests and lakes.
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Are there buses?Bus service is limited; check current schedules for regional carriers.
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How long is the flight?The flight is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Is it safe to drive in winter?Yes, with proper tires and caution, but check weather reports first.
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What is the best route?Highway 97 is the primary and most direct route.
Quick Info
- From Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
- To Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to September for clear roads and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Prince George
1
The Exploration Place
Visit this museum and science center located in Lheidli T'enneh Memorial Park. It features local history and interactive exhibits.
2
Ancient Forest
Walk the boardwalk through this rare inland temperate rainforest. It is located east of Prince George.
3
Cottonwood Island Nature Park
Enjoy walking trails along the Fraser River. It is a peaceful spot for birdwatching.
4
Huble Homestead
Explore this historic site that showcases life in the early 1900s. It offers guided tours and demonstrations.
Tags
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