Driving
Williams Lake to Campbell River
Updated: 30 May 2026
The journey from Williams Lake to Campbell River covers approximately 700 kilometers, including a ferry crossing. You will drive south on Highway 97, merge onto the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5), continue on Highway 1 West to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, take the ferry to Departure Bay in Nanaimo, and drive north to Campbell River. Expect a total travel time of 10 hours, including ferry wait times.
Total Distance: Driving distance 700 km, straight-line air distance 460 km.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Coquihalla and taking the ferry is the fastest route at 10 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle with a ferry reservation is the most economical option.
Compare Williams Lake to Campbell River Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
10 hours
Avg Price
$150-$200 in fuel + ferry
Operator
Personal Vehicle + BC Ferries
Route
Highway 97 South, Highway 5 South, Highway 1 West, BC Ferry, Highway 19 North.
Book your ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.
Travel Tips
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FerryBook your ferry reservation online in advance.
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TrafficCheck traffic reports for the Lower Mainland.
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FuelFill up in the interior to save money.
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RestStop in Hope to prepare for the final stretch.
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NavigationUse GPS to navigate the city streets of Campbell River.
Safety Tips
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FatigueTake a 15-minute break every 2 hours.
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ConstructionWatch for lane closures on Highway 1.
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EmergencyKeep a spare tire and jack in your vehicle.
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VisibilityEnsure your windshield wipers are in good condition.
People Also Ask
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Is there a bus?No direct bus service exists.
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Is it a scenic drive?Yes, the Coquihalla is very scenic.
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Where to stop?Kamloops is the best midpoint.
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Is the road safe?Yes, it is a major highway.
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Can I fly?No, there are no commercial flights.
Quick Info
- From Williams Lake, British Columbia, Canada
- To Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring or early autumn for the best driving and ferry conditions.
Things to Do in Campbell River
1
Elk Falls Provincial Park
A stunning park with a famous waterfall and suspension bridge.
2
Discovery Pier
A great place for fishing and watching boats.
3
Campbell River Museum
A great place to learn about the history of the city.
4
Quinsam River Hatchery
A fascinating place to see salmon spawning.
Tags
Williams Lake to Campbell River
driving to Campbell River
BC road trip
BC Ferries to Campbell River
Campbell River travel
Cariboo to Vancouver Island
BC highway guide
long distance driving
