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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Know Before You Go

  
Updated: November 24, 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:

Highway 97 north of Summerland is open for two lanes of traffic, one in each direction. It will occasionally be closed for brief periods due to ongoing construction efforts.

Check Drive BC for these intermittent closures.

Crews have completed temporary work to allow traffic access through the site after the section of highway was closed August 28, 2023 because of a rockslide.

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.

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.

Drive safe this winter. Be sure to follow these BC winter driving tips to ensure you are prepared.

 

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. Your support helps to keep our community thriving
  • 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
  • Connect with our Penticton Visitor Centre to help you travel safely by providing trip planning assistance, visitor information and local expertise
  • 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



Tips for Being Safe While Participating in Outdoor Activities & Travelling this winter

  • Get yourself and your vehicle ready for winter conditions. Check shiftintowinter.ca for advice
  • Always check Drive BC before heading out on the road to learn about the current conditions along your planned route
  • Be sure to follow these BC winter driving tips to ensure you are prepared
  • 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 or lesson to learn from the experts
  • 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
  • Wear or carry suitable clothing and safety equipment
  • Dress for the weather and pack extra layers
  • 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

Penticton Visitor Centre

Main Location

Located at:

888 Westminster Ave West

Penticton, BC

V2A 8S2

Hours:

Monday to Friday

9:00am – 4:00pm

Holiday hours may apply on statutory holidays.

Peach Location

Located at:

185 Lakeshore Dr

Penticton, BC

V2A 1B7

Hours:

Closed for the season

 

 

View current visitor centre hours of operation here.