Crossing the Border

Route 97 crosses the border between the United States and Canada and it’s important to make sure you’re prepared with the necessary documentation and are aware of the restrictions in place. This includes what can be brought in and out of each country such as alcohol and tobacco, currency, pets, firearms, and agriculture.

A valid passport or NEXUS is required to cross the border between Canada and the United States

For additional information, please refer to these official resources:

Weather

Be prepared! Route 97 passes through many microclimates, through mountain ranges and valleys, across deserts, and urban centres. Check the weather along your route to ensure you arrive safely to your destination.

RVing

Whether traveling with your backpack and tent or motoring in the comfort of a recreational vehicle, you’ll find cozy campsites and spectacular mountain scenery throughout Route 97. Bring your spirit of adventure along on your road trip and see just where Route 97 can take you.

Resources for RV camping locations:

Sustainability

The Thompson Okanagan is an accredited Sustainable Tourism Destination and is officially a Biosphere Certified Destination. Being the first destination in the America’s to receive this designation, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is passionate about working with the tourism industry and with travellers to inspire and educate on responsible tourism practices so our home can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Learn more about the Biosphere Destination Certification.

Highway Conditions

When travelling along Route 97 it is important to remember that speed limits and distance markers are stated in kilometres in Canada. In the United States miles are used to mark both speed and distance.

Check for highway updates as you travel so you’re prepared for all weather conditions, construction, or accidents.

Electric Car Charging

You can find a charge for your electric vehicle along many of the loops and corridors of Route 97. Click on the links below to locate the most convenient EV station along your route:

Places to Stay

Rest up for the road ahead — accommodations throughout Route 97 are as varied as the landscape unfolding outside your window. Ranch stays and RV camp grounds, luxurious resorts and quaint B&Bs and inns, family-friendly hotels and motels, or vacation and houseboat rentals — if you can put a pillow on it, you’ll find a bed to suit you in these approved accommodations:

Accessibility

In partnership with Access BC and Spinal Cord Injury BC, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is committed to becoming a world-reknowned accessible destination.

For accessibility resources, visit TOTABC.org.

 
 

Visitor Centres

Stop by a visitor centre in the Thompson Okanagan or North Central Washington to pick up your copy of the 2019 Route 97 Road Trip Guide & Map.

Visitor Centre Map

Use this map as a starting point to plan your Route 97 Road trip. Click on the Visitor Info Centre markers for location info & websites.