Road Trip From Area K to Invermere: The Best Routes to Take

Going on a road trip with family and friends has always brought a sense of excitement. Traveling from one place to another, stopping and admiring stunning landscapes on the way, and creating unforgettable memories along the way. For those of you planning a trip from East Chilcotin (Area K) to Invermere, British Columbia, here is some information that may help you plan your route and timing.

Fast Routes to Take

The fastest route to take is to travel from East Chilcotin via Highway 20 to Bella Coola, then to take the ferry to Port Hardy. From there, follow Hwy 19 to Parksville, then take Hwy 4 to Invermere.

The distance from East Chilcotin to Invermere via this route is approximately 920 km. You can expect to spend about 14 hours on the road. However, keep in mind that this route involves taking a ferry, so it's important to check the ferry schedule and make reservations ahead of time.

Another fast route to take is via the Trans Canada Highway (Hwy 1) and Hwy 93. This will take you through the stunning scenery of the Kootenay National Park. The distance from East Chilcotin to Invermere via this route is approximately 470 km. You can expect to spend about 6 hours on the road.

Slow Routes to Take

If you're not in a rush and want to take your time, there are several slower routes you can take. One option is to travel via Highway 20 to Williams Lake, then take Hwy 97 south to Hwy 1, and finally, take Hwy 95 to Invermere. This route takes you through scenic small towns, forests, and mountains, great if you want to take your time and explore. The distance from East Chilcotin to Invermere via this route is approximately 640 km. You can expect to spend about 10 hours on the road.

Another slower route is via the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast loop, which covers several highways stretching across beautiful sceneries, such as cattle country, the gold rush trail, and cowboy towns. The distance from East Chilcotin to Invermere via this route is approximately 750 km. You can expect to spend about 12 hours on the road.

Optimal Timing for Your Drive

Traffic patterns can affect your driving time significantly on your trip. If you're planning to drive during peak hours, be prepared for slow-moving traffic, and if you're driving during off-peak hours, you can expect the roads to be less congested.

Driving during peak hours can add up to 50% more time to your driving time. For example, driving from East Chilcotin to Invermere via Hwy 1 and Hwy 93 during peak hours can take up to 9 hours, while off-peak driving can take approximately 6 hours.

Ultimately, figuring out the best route and timing for your trip depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. It’s important to note that you may need extra time to account for road closures, construction, and unforeseen circumstances. Be sure to check road conditions before traveling and take your time to enjoy the scenic beauty of British Columbia along the way.

We hope this helps you plan your trip from Area K to Invermere and that you have a safe and enjoyable journey!