Know Before You Go
Updated: September 22, 2023
Penticton tour operators, accommodators, food and beverage providers, and attraction hosts continue to operate and warmly welcome visitors, and visitors are asked to return the favour by travelling responsibly.
#visitpenticton #exploreBC
Travel Updates and Information
Highway closures and travel restrictions:
As of September 22 at noon: Highway 97 north of Summerland will open for two lanes of traffic, one in each direction.
Crews have completed temporary work to allow traffic access through the site after the section of highway was closed Aug. 28, 2023 because of a rockslide. Since Sept. 11, the highway has been operating with single-lane-alternating traffic as crews worked to stabilize the hillside.
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure contractors built a lock-block wall to protect the highway from falling rock. In addition, a 150-metre berm between the lock-block wall and the bottom of the slope was constructed to temporarily address slope movement. Construction of permanent stabilization measures will continue.
Geotechnical engineers continue to monitor the slide site for changes in ground conditions.
Drivers are reminded that this portion of the road may need to be closed again with limited notice if it is deemed unsafe. The site will be at greater likelihood of closure should heavy rainfall occur.
Always check Drive BC before heading out on the road to learn about the current conditions along your planned route, including webcams, closures, restrictions and advisories, construction delays, or detours.
For current road advisories and information, visit tranbc.ca.
Read the latest updates on the BC wildfire situation:
If you are planning on travelling in BC, please do so safely and avoid fire-affected communities. Know before you go and be prepared. Many communities continue to be impacted by wildfires and continue to face challenges. Listen to the direction of local communities. Respect emergency orders and alerts.
Weather events:
Please visit Environment Canada for the latest weather information, statements, and air quality advisories.
Read important updates on BC travel:
Read important updates from BC Parks:
How To Explore Safely and Responsibly
Situated between two large fresh water lakes, ample green space, local wildlife, an abundance of wineries, vineyards and orchards, and never ending trails to explore, it is no wonder travellers choose to visit Penticton. But in order to ensure Penticton remains beautiful we ask you respect and care for the land, the people and our way of life during your stay.
If you are planning to visit Penticton, here are some guidelines for exploring our community.
- Do not travel if you are sick
- Support local, dine at the local restaurants, book an activity or a tour, and find a unique accommodation
- Plan ahead and book activities, accommodation, dining reservations, wine tastings and experiences in advance. Review the booking and cancellation policies
- Respect the people, businesses, and communities you visit, and respect the safety procedures enacted by the businesses you visit
- Respect local wildlife. Pack out what you pack in and dispose of waste properly
- If you encounter wildlife during your adventures, please remember to keep your distance and recognize that you are a visitor to their home
- Remember that delays and disruptions can happen at any time of year. Take your time, take care of each other, and practice patience
- Adhere to any local closures or restricted access to communities
Real-time Conditions in Penticton
We will be actively posting real-time Penticton visual updates from around the city and Penticton area to our our social media accounts.
August 24th, 11:46 am – Video captured at Okanagan Beach overlooking Okanagan Lake
View this post on Instagram
August 23rd, 10:45 am – Video captured at Munson Mountain overlooking the Naramata Bench and Okanagan Lake
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#realtimepenticton
Penticton Visitor Centre
Main Location
Located at:
888 Westminster Ave West
Penticton, BC
V2A 8S2
Hours:
Monday to Friday
9:00am – 4:30pm
CLOSED Monday, October 2nd (National Truth and Reconciliation) & Monday, October 9th (Thanksgiving)
Peach Location
Located at:
185 Lakeshore Dr
Penticton, BC
V2A 1B7
Hours:
Closed for the season
View current visitor centre hours of operation here.
Tips for Being Safe WhileParticipating in Outdoor Activities
- Always check the current weather conditions and weather alerts along your planned journey before heading out
- Plan your travel route, let someone know where you’re going and when
- Know the terrain and conditions. Know and stay within your limits
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn from the experts. Build up your endurance on short trails before attempting longer trails or more challenging terrain
- Practice low-risk activities and recreation
- Bring water. Fuel your body before heading outside and pack an additional nutritious snack and water to take along
- Pack in and pack out. Do not leave anything behind
- Always carry the essentials and know how to use them
- Dress for the weather and pack extra layers. Bring sunscreen and a hat
- Stay informed and respect any trail, beach, park, or local area closures as posted
- Be AdventureSmart at all times and follow the 3 T’s: Trip Plan, Train, and Take Essentials