by Turo
posted on June 17, 2025
The Vancouver to Kelowna drive has a little bit of everything and something for everyone – views of the ocean fading behind you, tunnels through the mountains, and vineyards that roll down to the shores of a lake. This road trip guide will help you slow down, plan smart, and make the journey just as good as the destination.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Tips for driving from Vancouver to Kelowna, British Columbia
- How are the road conditions between Vancouver and Kelowna?
- What is the best time of year to drive from Vancouver to Kelowna?
- Are there EV chargers along the way between Vancouver and Kelowna?
- Where to stop while driving from Vancouver to Kelowna, BC
- Frequently asked questions about the Vancouver to Kelowna road trip
- Book your rental car in Vancouver with Turo
Tips for driving from Vancouver to Kelowna, British Columbia
Highway 1 and Highway 5 (Coquihalla) make driving from Vancouver to Kelowna, British Columbia, a direct route, albeit one with some dramatic elevation changes. Fuel up before Hope and keep an eye on the weather. Most of the drive is mountain highway, so give yourself the time you need to drive carefully and stay alert.
How are the road conditions between Vancouver and Kelowna?
The route is well-paved and frequently travelled. You’ll hit fast-moving freeway sections, winding mountain grades, and stretches with limited services. Winter brings snow and fog, especially on the Coquihalla.
What is the best time of year to drive from Vancouver to Kelowna?
Late spring through early fall is ideal. Summer has clear roads, long daylight hours, and easy access to attractions. Fall offers cooler temperatures and a great view of changing colours through the Fraser Valley and Okanagan.
Are there EV chargers along the way between Vancouver and Kelowna?
Yes — you’ll find fast chargers in Chilliwack, Hope, Merritt, West Kelowna, and Kelowna. It’s a solid route for electric vehicle drivers, but some planning ahead can help avoid wait times at peak hours.
Where to stop while driving from Vancouver to Kelowna, BC
Driving from Vancouver to Kelowna, BC, takes around four to five hours, but it’s worth taking your time. The stops along the way are a big part of what makes this drive so special!
Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park
Tucked just off Highway 1 near Chilliwack, a short forest trail in this beautiful BC park leads to a wide, curtain-like waterfall that’s easy to reach and makes for a great photo op!
- Distance from Vancouver: 120 km (~1.5 hours)
- Distance to Kelowna: 245 km (~3 hours)
Why it’s great
It’s a quick and easy hike with high payoff. It’s a great place to stop if you’re into photography or just want a quiet place to stretch your legs.
Practical tips
The trail is short but can get muddy after rain. There’s limited cell service, so save directions before you go.
How to get there
From Vancouver, take Highway 1 east and exit at Bridal Falls Road. The parking lot is small and tight, especially in peak season. A compact car rental, like a Nissan or BMW, makes getting in and out smoother and gives you room to move without the parking stress.
Harrison Hot Springs
Harrison Hot Springs is a beautiful little town on a glacier-fed lake, and a quiet place to reset halfway through your drive. You can step out of the car, breathe deep, unwind, and soak it all in – literally.
- Distance from Vancouver: 130 km (~2 hours)
- Distance to Kelowna: 230 km (~2.5 hours)
Why it’s great
With hot pools, walkable streets, and views of the surrounding peaks, Harrison is an ideal spot to slow down and reset before heading into the mountains.
Practical tips
Public hot springs are located at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort (guests only) and the nearby public pool. Street parking is available, but it gets busy in summer.
How to get there
Follow Highway 1 east, exit at Agassiz, and take Highway 9 north. Harrison has EV charging stations throughout the village and nearby hotels, so it’s a perfect stop if you’re choosing a Tesla or another electric vehicle as your Vancouver rental car.
Othello Tunnels
Just outside the town of Hope, the Othello Tunnels cut through sheer rock along the Coquihalla River. Once part of an old railway line, they’re now an easy walk or bike ride with dramatic views of the canyon.
- Distance from Vancouver: 150 km (~2 hours)
- Distance to Kelowna: 215 km (~2.5 hours)
Why it’s great
It’s a quick stop that feels like a real adventure – cool, quiet, and carved straight into the mountains.
Practical tips
Bring a flashlight or headlamp – the tunnels are dark even in daytime. The walking path is flat but can be slippery when wet, so wear shoes with good grip.
How to get there
Take Highway 1 east from Vancouver, then follow signs to Hope. If you’re flying in, skip the counter and book your Vancouver airport car rental on Turo. A minivan from Chrysler or Ford gives you the space to load in your crew and your gear, and still stretch out on the highway.
Penticton and Okanagan Lake
Tucked between Okanagan and Skaha Lakes, Penticton is where fun in the sun, lakeside drives, and vineyard tours all meet. It’s a place to roll the windows down, take your time, and enjoy the kind of detour that feels well-deserved.
- Distance from Vancouver: 390 km (~4.5 hours)
- Distance to Kelowna: 60 km (~1 hour)
Why it’s great
You can float the channel, sip local wine, or cruise along the lakeside. It’s one of those rare spots that works for almost any kind of traveller.
Practical tips
Parking is free downtown, but beaches and wineries fill up early on summer weekends. Book ahead for tastings and bring a cooler if you’re picking up bottles.
How to get there
Take Highway 3A north – it’s a scenic, winding drive that’s made for the right kind of car. A sports car, a classic car, or a Porsche turns the drive into a highlight. There’s nothing better than driving a convertible with the top down on your way to a gorgeous lakeside vineyard!
Osoyoos, BC
Just north of the U.S. border, Osoyoos is where your road trip through BC shifts. Sagebrush replaces pine trees, lakes shimmer in the sun, and the highway drops into a valley as you drive through Canada’s only desert.
- Distance from Vancouver: 400 km (~5 hours)
- Distance to Kelowna: 125 km (~1.5 hours)
Why it’s great
It feels like a different country. Passing the shrubbery, red rocks, and uncrowded trails gives this spot a totally different pace from the rest of the drive.
Practical tips
Summer can get hot, and shade is limited. Pack water, sun protection, and good footwear if you’re heading to nearby hiking trails or the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre.
How to get there
Follow Highway 3 east through Similkameen wine country. The roads into Osoyoos wind through desert hills and open stretches where grip and control matter. A Jeep, Subaru, or Toyota SUV is ideal on these remote roads, and all-wheel drive models will keep you confident no matter the terrain.
Frequently asked questions about the Vancouver to Kelowna road trip
Where is Kelowna?
Kelowna is in the southern interior of British Columbia in the Okanagan Valley. It’s about 390 km (240 miles) east of Vancouver and sits between Penticton to the south and Vernon to the north.
Most people drive from Vancouver or fly into Kelowna International Airport, which offers direct flights from major Canadian cities. Booking a Kelowna airport car rental on Turo gives you the flexibility to start exploring the valley as soon as you land, with delivery options available to the terminal!
Is the drive from Vancouver to Kelowna nice?
This is one of the nicest road trips in BC. You’ll pass through river valleys, mountain tunnels, and high alpine passes before descending into wine country. Even if you’ve done it before, it’s always astounding.
How much does it cost to drive from Vancouver to Kelowna?
Expect to spend around $75–$100 on fuel, depending on your vehicle and route. The Coquihalla Highway has no tolls, and EV drivers will find free and paid fast-charging stations along the way.
How long does it take to drive to Vancouver from Kelowna?
It usually takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and your chosen route. The Coquihalla is the fastest, but Highway 3 or Highway 1 are more scenic alternatives if you’re not in a rush.
Where is the best place to stop between Vancouver and Kelowna?
That depends on what you’re after. Harrison Hot Springs is perfect for relaxing and recharging. If you want something short and scenic, the Othello Tunnels or Bridal Veil Falls won’t add too much time to your drive.
Book your rental car in Vancouver with Turo
The drive from Vancouver to Kelowna should feel uniquely yours from the first time you start the engine. With Turo, you can start your trip the way you want — no lines at the counter, no unpleasant surprises.
Just choose a vehicle that matches how you want to travel, and have it delivered right to the airport, your hotel, or wherever makes sense for you!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
