Is there a train to Terrace?

VIA Rail operates the Skeena train from Jasper to Prince Rupert, which stops in Terrace.

What is the best highway to take?

Highway 97 North to Prince George, then Highway 16 West to Terrace.

Are there hotels in Prince George?

Yes, Prince George offers a wide range of hotels and motels for travelers.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 13 to 14 hours of active driving time.

Yes, the entire route consists of well-maintained, paved provincial highways.

Terrace

Driving

Tappen to Terrace

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Tappen to Terrace spans approximately 1,150 kilometers through the heart of British Columbia. You will primarily travel north via Highway 97 before connecting to the Yellowhead Highway 16 at Prince George. This route takes you through the Cariboo region and into the rugged Skeena Valley. Expect a total driving time of roughly 13 to 14 hours depending on road conditions. The landscape transitions from the Shuswap lakes to the dramatic mountain ranges of the North.

Total Distance: 1,150 km driving distance; 720 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest practical method as there is no direct commercial flight from Tappen.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this long-distance route.

Compare Tappen to Terrace Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

13 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$250-$350 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 1 to Highway 97 North, then Highway 16 West.

Check DriveBC for mountain pass conditions before departing.

Travel Tips

Fuel Up
Fill your tank in Prince George, as gas stations become sparse between Prince George and Terrace.
Wildlife Awareness
Be extremely cautious of moose and deer on the road, especially during dawn and dusk.
Cell Service
Expect significant dead zones in cell coverage between Vanderhoof and Terrace.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter emergency kit even in summer, including blankets, water, and non-perishable food.
Road Conditions
Always check the DriveBC website for real-time highway closures or construction updates.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Plan for an overnight stop in Prince George to avoid driver fatigue on this long route.
Weather Checks
Mountain passes can experience sudden weather changes; monitor local forecasts closely.
Vehicle Inspection
Ensure your tires and brakes are in top condition before tackling the steep grades of the interior.
Communication
Download offline maps as GPS signals can be unreliable in deep valleys.