Driving BC Mountain Roads: A Year-Round Guide

Spring & Summer Driving in the Mountains

Spring and summer are spectacular times to drive BC's mountain highways. The snow retreats, wildflowers bloom along the passes, and long daylight hours make for relaxed, scenic road trips.

Why Spring & Summer Are Ideal for Mountain Driving

The Columbia Mountains around Revelstoke come alive from April through September. Clear roads, warm temperatures, and stunning alpine scenery make this the perfect time to explore. Highway construction season begins in spring, so check DriveBC (drivebc.ca) for any delays or detours on your route.

Spring Driving Tips (April – June)

**Watch for changing conditions** — Spring weather can be unpredictable. Morning frost is possible at higher elevations through May, even when valleys are warm.

**Be aware of wildlife** — Bears, deer, and other animals are active and frequently cross mountain highways in spring. Stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk.

**Enjoy the waterfalls** — Spring melt creates dramatic waterfalls along Rogers Pass and Eagle Pass. Pull over at designated viewpoints to take it all in.

**Road conditions improve quickly** — By mid-April, most mountain highways are clear and dry. Construction projects begin, so allow a bit of extra time.

Summer Driving Tips (July – September)

**Stay hydrated** — Mountain driving in summer heat requires extra water, especially if you're stopping for hikes along the way.

**Watch for construction** — Major highway improvement projects run through the summer. Check DriveBC for flagging delays.

**Start early for popular routes** — Summer weekends can see higher traffic volumes, especially on the Trans-Canada near national parks.

**Pack for all conditions** — Even in summer, mountain weather can shift quickly. Keep a light layer handy.

Key Routes to Revelstoke

Highway 1 (Trans-Canada) through Rogers Pass — stunning glacier views

Highway 1 from Kamloops through Eagle Pass — gentle, scenic valley drive

Highway 23 from Mica Creek — quiet and beautiful

What to Carry (Spring/Summer)

Fully charged phone with DriveBC bookmarked

Sunglasses and sunscreen

Plenty of water and snacks

A light jacket for mountain pass stops

Camera — the scenery is incredible

Transitioning to Winter Driving

Check Road Conditions

As the season shifts toward fall and winter, always check DriveBC (drivebc.ca) before departing. Mountain passes can close unexpectedly due to avalanche control, accidents, or severe weather.

Know the Chain-Up Areas

Chain-up areas are located at the base of major passes. Even with quality tires, chains may be required during severe winter storms:

Rogers Pass East and West

Kicking Horse Pass

Eagle Pass Summit

Winter Tire Requirements

BC law requires winter tires (marked with the mountain/snowflake symbol) on most highways from October 1 to April 30. All RevyCar vehicles come equipped with 3-peak mountain snowflake rated all-season tires year-round, so you're always covered.

Winter Driving Tips

**Reduce speed** — Posted limits are for ideal conditions. In winter, slow down significantly.

**Increase following distance** — Leave at least 4-6 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead.

**Avoid sudden movements** — Brake, accelerate, and steer smoothly.

**Use your lights** — Keep headlights on, even during the day.

**Know your vehicle** — AWD helps with acceleration, but not with stopping.

Resources

DriveBC: drivebc.ca

Avalanche Canada: avalanche.ca

Environment Canada Weather: weather.gc.ca

Safe travels in every season!