Bc Highway 97 Map
British Columbia’s Highway 97 is a scenic route that spans almost 2,000 kilometers and takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Canada. From the rolling hills of the Okanagan Valley to the rugged mountains of the Northern Rockies, this highway is a must-visit for anyone who loves adventure, nature, and culture.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions along Highway 97 is the Okanagan Valley, known for its world-class wineries, orchards, and sandy beaches. Kelowna, the largest city in the valley, is a great place to start your journey. Visit the Kelowna Art Gallery, explore the Waterfront Park, or take a dip in the Okanagan Lake.
Further north, you’ll find the city of Kamloops, which is surrounded by rolling hills and grasslands. The Kamloops Art Gallery, the Kamloops Heritage Railway, and the British Columbia Wildlife Park are just a few of the attractions you can explore here.
Hidden Gems
One of the hidden gems along Highway 97 is the town of Cache Creek, which is known for its historic gold rush sites and stunning natural beauty. Take a walk along the Cache Creek Nature Trail, visit the Historic Hat Creek Ranch, or go fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers.
Another hidden gem is the town of Fort St. John, which is located in the heart of the Peace River Valley. Here, you can explore the Alaska Highway House Museum, go hiking in the Beatton Provincial Park, or take a scenic drive along the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area.
Food Scene
Highway 97 is home to some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in British Columbia. Stop by the Old Vines Restaurant in Kelowna for a taste of the local cuisine, or visit the Blue Apple Cafe in Kamloops for some delicious vegetarian dishes.
For a truly unique dining experience, head to the Naked Pig BBQ in Vernon, which is known for its mouth-watering smoked meats and hearty sides. And if you’re in the mood for some sweet treats, make sure to visit the Kettle Valley Station Pub in Penticton, which serves up delicious desserts and craft beers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money along Highway 97. One of the best ways is to pack your own snacks and meals and avoid eating out as much as possible.
You can also save money by booking your accommodations in advance, taking advantage of discounts and deals, and opting for budget-friendly activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.
Outdoor Adventures
Highway 97 is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and camping to fishing and skiing, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy here.
One of the best places to go hiking is the Enderby Cliffs Provincial Park, which offers stunning views of the Okanagan Valley and the Shuswap River. For a more challenging hike, head to the Mount Robson Provincial Park, which is home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
Historical Landmarks
Highway 97 is rich in history and culture. One of the most famous landmarks along the way is the Hat Creek Ranch, which was once a major stop on the Cariboo Wagon Road.
Another must-visit landmark is the Fort St. James National Historic Site, which was once a trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Here, you can learn about the fur trade, explore the historic buildings, and enjoy a guided tour of the site.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy along Highway 97. Visit the Kangaroo Creek Farm in Lake Country, where you can see kangaroos, wallabies, and other exotic animals up close.
Another great place to take the kids is the O’Keefe Ranch in Vernon, which is a historic site that offers horse-drawn wagon rides, farm animals, and interactive exhibits.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those who want to explore the road less traveled, Highway 97 has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Head to the Chilcotin region, where you can explore the remote wilderness, go horseback riding, and learn about the local First Nations culture.
You can also visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos, which is a unique museum that showcases the history and culture of the Okanagan people.
Natural Wonders
Highway 97 is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in Canada. One of the most famous is the Okanagan Lake, which is a beautiful spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Another natural wonder is the Wells Gray Provincial Park, which is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in British Columbia. Here, you can hike to the Helmcken Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in Canada.
Vibrant Nightlife
Highway 97 offers plenty of opportunities for nightlife, with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues scattered throughout the region. In Kelowna, you can visit the Habitat, which is a popular spot for live music, or check out the BNA Brewing Co. and Eatery for some craft beer and tasty food.
In Kamloops, you can go bar-hopping along Victoria Street, which is home to some of the city’s best bars and restaurants. And in Penticton, you can visit the Cannery Brewing Company for some delicious beer and live music.
Local Markets
Highway 97 is home to some of the best farmers’ markets in Canada, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. In Vernon, you can visit the Okanagan Landing Community Market, which is open every Sunday from May to September.
In Kamloops, you can check out the Farmers’ Market on St. Paul, which is open every Wednesday from April to October. And in Kelowna, you can visit the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market, which is the largest farmers’ market in the region.
Beaches and Mountains
Highway 97 is the perfect destination for those who love both the beach and the mountains. In Kelowna, you can visit the City Park Beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. And in Penticton, you can visit the Skaha Lake Beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy shore.
For those who love the mountains, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Visit the SilverStar Mountain Resort in Vernon for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region, or head to the Sun Peaks Resort in Kamloops for some world-class skiing and snowboarding.
Cultural Immersion
Highway 97 is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, with a rich history that spans thousands of years. Visit the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park in Kamloops to learn about the First Nations culture and history of the region.
You can also visit the Kelowna Museums, which include the Okanagan Heritage Museum, the Okanagan Military Museum, and the Kelowna Art Gallery. And in Penticton, you can explore the S.S. Sicamous Inland Marine Museum, which showcases the history of maritime transportation in the region.
Art and Music Scene
Highway 97 has a vibrant art and music scene, with galleries, museums, and music venues scattered throughout the region. In Vernon, you can visit the Vernon Public Art Gallery, which features contemporary and traditional art from local and national artists.
In Kelowna, you can check out the Rotary Centre for the Arts, which showcases local and national artists in a variety of disciplines. And in Kamloops, you can visit the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra, which performs classical and contemporary music throughout the year.
Walking Tours
Highway 97 is a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of walking tours and trails to choose from. In Kelowna, you can take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s historic district, which includes more than 30 heritage buildings and landmarks.
In Kamloops, you can take a walking tour of the city’s downtown core, which features a variety of historic sites and landmarks. And in Penticton, you can explore the Kettle Valley Railway Trail, which is a scenic walking and biking trail that winds through the mountains and valleys of the region.
Architectural Marvels
Highway 97 is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in Canada. One of the most famous is the Okanagan Centre for Innovation in Kelowna, which is a state-of-the-art facility that houses tech startups, research labs, and innovation hubs.
Another architectural marvel is the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Centre in Kamloops, which is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys of the region.