Top of the World
Elevation: 2,080m
Published March 1, 2026
Why Drive to Sun Peaks
A road trip to Sun Peaks is the perfect scenic BC escape any time of the year. Enjoy the freedom of being on your own schedule as you zoom through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Winding mountain highways, sweeping valley views, and towering evergreen trees set the tone for an alpine escape long before you arrive at your destination. Driving to Sun Peaks lets you experience the wonders of BC at your own pace, with time to stop for photos, explore small towns, and soak in the scenery along the way. If you want to plan a longer trip, you can even incorporate driving to more BC ski resorts in the area.
Drive On Your Own Schedule
Unlike air travel, a road trip comes with flexibility and ease. Avoid rigid departure times, busy airports, and surprise baggage fees; pack up your skis, your golf clubs, your bikes—even the family dog!—without limits.
Arrive in Style
The best part of driving to Sun Peaks might just be the peaceful arrival. Roll into the alpine village on your own time, where parking is simple and everything you need is close at hand. Enjoy an easy transition from scenic highway to relaxing holiday, stepping out of your car and right into this magical ski-in, ski-out village.
Route Overview: How to Get to Sun Peaks
Driving to Sun Peaks from nearby areas like Vancouver, Seattle, or Spokane? Find your route below.
Seattle to Sun Peaks (~5.5 to 7.5 hrs)
Total distance: Approximately 525 km (325 miles).
Always: Check DriveBC for road closures and weather events to plan your route.
1. Seattle to Canadian Border
- Depart Seattle heading north on Interstate 5 (I-5 N).
- Continue to the Peace Arch or Pacific Highway border crossing at Blaine, WA.
- (The Sumas/Abbotsford crossing is an alternative option, particularly during busy travel periods.)
2. Border to Hope, BC
- After crossing into British Columbia, follow signs for Highway 1 East (Trans-Canada Highway) toward Vancouver.
- Stay on Highway 1 East through the Fraser Valley toward Hope.
2. Hope to Kamloops (Coquihalla Highway)
- At Hope, merge onto Highway 5 North (Coquihalla Highway) toward Merritt and Kamloops.
- Continue north through Merritt on Highway 5 toward Kamloops.
This section features sweeping mountain views and high-elevation driving.
3. Kamloops to Sun Peaks
- In Kamloops, take exit 374 for Yellowhead Highway/BC-5 N toward Sun Peaks/Jasper/Wells Gray
- Continue on Yellowhead Highway/BC-5 N approximately 24 km (15 miles) to take the exit for Sun Peaks/Heffley Creek.
- Follow Heffley-Louis Creek Road, then make a quick left onto Tod Mountain Road at the Heffley Creek Store (Last Chance for Gas!).
- Continue approximately 24 km (15 miles) up Tod Mountain Road to reach Sun Peaks Resort.
Spokane to Sun Peaks (~7.5 hrs)
Total distance: About 585 km (363 miles)
Always: Check DriveBC for road closures and weather events to plan your route.
1. Spokane to Canadian Border
- Depart Spokane heading north on US-395 N.
- Continue through Colville toward the Laurier border crossing into British Columbia (a quieter and often faster crossing than busier metro options).
2. Border to Osoyoos
- After crossing into Canada, US-395 becomes BC Highway 395.
- Follow Highway 395 north to Highway 3 West.
- Continue west on Highway 3 to Osoyoos.
3. Osoyoos to Merritt
- From Osoyoos, take Highway 97 North toward Penticton and Kelowna.
- At West Kelowna, merge onto Highway 97C (Okanagan Connector) toward Merritt.
4. Merritt to Sun Peaks
- At Merritt, merge onto Highway 5 North (Coquihalla Highway) toward Kamloops.
- Just south of Kamloops, take the exit for Sun Peaks / Heffley Creek.
- Follow Heffley-Louis Creek Road, then turn onto Tod Mountain Road.
- Continue approximately 24 km (15 miles) to reach Sun Peaks Resort.
Vancouver to Sun Peaks (~4.5 hrs)
Total distance: Approximately 410 km (250 miles)
Always: Check DriveBC for road closures and weather events to plan your route.
1. Vancouver to Hope
- Depart Vancouver heading east on Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway).
- Follow Highway 1 through the Fraser Valley toward Hope.
2. Hope to Kamloops (Coquihalla Highway)
- At Hope, merge onto Highway 5 North (Coquihalla Highway) toward Merritt and Kamloops.
- Continue north through Merritt on Highway 5 toward Kamloops.
This section features sweeping mountain views and high-elevation driving.
3. Kamloops to Sun Peaks
- In Kamloops, take exit 374 for Yellowhead Highway/BC-5 N toward Sun Peaks/Jasper/Wells Gray
- Continue on Yellowhead Highway/BC-5 N approximately 24 km (15 miles) to take the exit for Sun Peaks/Heffley Creek.
- Follow Heffley-Louis Creek Road, then make a quick left onto Tod Mountain Road at the Heffley Creek Store (Last Chance for Gas!).
- Continue approximately 24 km (15 miles) up Tod Mountain Road to reach Sun Peaks Resort.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
Learn more about must-stop locations for foodies around Sun Peaks and Kamloops!
Between Seattle and Sun Peaks
Road tripping from Seattle to Sun Peaks offers plenty of fun places to stretch your legs and explore along the way. Leavenworth, WA is a charming Bavarian-style mountain town nestled in the Cascades, perfect for great food, seasonal festivals, and a quick wander through its alpine-inspired village.
Further north via US-97, Lake Chelan makes a beautiful lakeside stop with wineries, summer patio dining, and scenic views along the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. If you are travelling seasonally via the North Cascades Highway, Winthrop, WA delivers Old West charm and access to the Methow Valley’s expansive trail network. Closer to the border, Colville National Forest offers peaceful forest roads, wildlife viewing, and stunning fall colours, creating a scenic final stretch before crossing into Canada and continuing on to Sun Peaks.
Between spokane and Sun Peaks
The drive from Spokane to Sun Peaks is packed with unexpected gems worth the detour. Just north of the city, Green Bluff is a fun, seasonal stop known for farm markets, apple picking, fresh baked goods, and local food experiences straight from the source. For a peaceful nature break, Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge offers an easy auto loop and short walking trails that are perfect for birdwatching and stretching your legs in a quiet, scenic setting.
If you are up for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, head toward Boundary Dam and Metaline Falls in Pend Oreille County, where rugged landscapes, forested hills, and rustic small-town charm create a memorable northern route before crossing into Canada.
After the Canadian border, you will enter BC's Wine Country. Try a tasting in the Okanagan Valley around Osoyoos, Penticton, or Kelowna before continuing on to Sun Peaks.
Between Vancouver and Sun Peaks
The drive from Vancouver to Sun Peaks is packed with scenic variety and great places to pause along the way. Start in the Fraser Valley, where farm-fresh markets, colourful flower fields, and relaxed small-town charm make for an easy and enjoyable first stop before heading into the mountains. Refuel in Hope, BC at the base of majestic mountains. Nearby, Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park (open April 1 to October 31) features rushing river views and historic railway tunnels, while the Coquihalla Highway itself delivers one of BC’s most iconic alpine drives, with sweeping mountain landscapes and ever-changing conditions in winter. Before the final climb to Sun Peaks, Kamloops or Merritt are perfect spots to refuel, grab a great meal, or explore a bit more of the Interior.
What You Need to Know About Driving to Sun Peaks from the U.S.
Tips for Crossing the Canada–U.S. Border
For the most direct route to Sun Peaks, the Sumas border crossing is commonly recommended. All travellers must carry a valid passport or a NEXUS card when entering Canada. Before departing, it’s a good idea to review current border wait times to avoid unexpected delays.
For real-time updates and additional information, visit the official websites for US border wait times, Washington State border crossing cameras, and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) wait times page.
Using Canadian Currency
Credit cards are accepted everywhere in Sun Peaks, but if you like to use cash, be sure to collect some CAD before your trip for meals, tours, and more.
Seasonal Driving Tips
You can drive to Sun Peaks in any season. Here are some top tips for a road trip any time of year.
Checking Road Reports
Driving to Sun Peaks requires travelling on some mountain roads where conditions can change rapidly. Always check road conditions online at DriveBC for the most up to date information prior to driving, or call 511 as mentioned above for real-time reports.
SNOW Tires and Winter Preparation in BC
Winter tires are required by law in British Columbia from October 1 to March 31, and until April 30 when driving over mountain passes such as the Coquihalla Highway. For your safety, be prepared with the right tires before setting off on a road trip to Sun Peaks.
For emergencies on the road, call 911. For real-time road conditions, call 511 to reach DriveBC.
Summer Driving in BC
Driving BC mountain roads in summer can be a stunningly beautiful experience, but as in winter, mountain weather conditions can change in a moment. Always check road and weather reports before you drive.
For emergencies on the road, call 911. For real-time road conditions, call 511 to reach DriveBC.
Start Your Sun Peaks Road Trip
What are you waiting for? Start planning that unforgettable BC road trip to Sun Peaks.
Get Inspired
Already planning that ski getaway, or looking for something new to try this summer? Check out our Stories & Inspiration area for unique experiences, lively events, and a local's eye to everything Sun Peaks.
Discover Stories & Inspiration
Book Your Accommodation
Your perfect spot in the village is waiting! Whether you're looking for a cozy alpine hotel for two, or a chalet to fit the whole family, Sun Peaks has everything in a walkable village close to restaurants and activities.
Explore Winter Deals Explore Summer Deals
Bringing an RV?
Come Another Way
Prefer to fly, bus, or shuttle to Sun Peaks? There are plenty of easy ways to arrive in the mountains. Check out other modes of transport below.
Sun Peaks Road Trip FAQs
Is the Coquihalla Highway open year-round?
Yes, the Coquihalla Highway is open year-round. As a high mountain route, conditions are subject to change quickly. Check DriveBC for relevant updates.
Do I need a passport to drive from the U.S. to Sun Peaks?
Yes. Everyone is required to show their passport or equivalent travel documents at U.S.-Canada border crossings.
For more information, please review the Canadian Government Guidelines.
Are snow tires required in BC?
Yes, snow tires are required between October 1 and March 31, with an extension to April 30 when travelling over high mountain passes such as the Coquihalla Highway.
For more information, please see the BC government's winter driving guidelines.
Can I rent a car in Seattle to drive into Canada?
Yes, most major car rental companies in Seattle allow you to drive into Canada. However, you must inform the rental company in advance so they can note it in your rental agreement and provide the proper documentation.
When crossing the border, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (and any required travel documents)
- Your driver’s license
- Your rental agreement
- A Canadian non-resident insurance card (provided by the car rental company)
Keep in mind that some vehicle types may be restricted, and one-way rentals into Canada may involve additional fees. Always confirm cross-border policies with your rental provider before booking.