Major Highways & Driving Tips in Vancouver, Canada
1. Trans-Canada Highway (British Columbia Section)
Stretches from Victoria to the Alberta border; offers scenic views of mountains and forests.
- Length: Covers approximately 1600 km in British Columbia
- Scenic Beauty: Passes through Banff and Jasper National Parks
- Potential Wildlife Sightings: Elk, moose, bears, and even grizzlies can be spotted along the way
2. Highway 1 (Vancouver to Hope)
Connects Vancouver to the Interior; passes through Fraser Canyon and Hope.
- Longest Bridge: Crosses Alexandra Bridge, one of the longest in Canada
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of Fraser River and canyon
- Historic Significance: Follows part of the old Cariboo Wagon Road
3. Coastal Mountain Highway (Hwy 99)
Runs along the coast from Vancouver to Bellingham; connects cities like Squamish and Whistler.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the coastal mountains
- Ski Resorts: Passes through popular resorts like Whistler Blackcomb
- Seasonal Attractions: Famous for winter skiing and summer hiking destinations
4. Golden Ears Way (Hwy 7 & Hwy 1)
Alternative route from Vancouver to Kamloops; passes through Golden Ears Provincial Park.
- Alternative Route: Offers an alternative to the congested Highway 1
- Natural Beauty: Passes through Golden Ears Provincial Park, known for its lakes and hiking trails
- Less Congested: Typically less congested than Highway 1 during peak travel times
5. Lions Gate Bridge
Connects North Vancouver to the West End of Vancouver; offers breathtaking city views.
- Iconic Landmark: Recognizable symbol of Vancouver's skyline
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the city, North Shore Mountains, and Burrard Inlet
- Toll Road: A toll is charged for vehicles passing through during peak hours
6. Second Narrows Crossing (Ironworkers Memorial Bridge)
Connects North Vancouver to the Lower Mainland; offers views of Burrard Inlet and ships.
- Iconic Landmark: Recognizable symbol of the Burrard Inlet skyline
- Scenic Views: Provides views of Burrard Inlet, ships, and the North Shore Mountains
- Multi-use Bridge: Carries both highway traffic and a SkyTrain line
7. Olympic Village Area Traffic Calming Measures
Measures implemented to reduce vehicle congestion in the Olympic Village area.
- Reduced Congestion: Improves traffic flow during peak hours
- Pedestrian-friendly: Promotes pedestrian safety and comfort in the area
- Sustainable Transportation: Encourages use of sustainable transportation options like cycling and public transit
8. Vancouver Streetcar (Historic)
Historical streetcar service that operates in downtown Vancouver.
- Heritage Preservation: Preserves a piece of Vancouver's history and heritage
- Alternative Transportation: Provides an alternative to driving in downtown Vancouver
- Tourist Attraction: Attracts tourists who want to experience a piece of Vancouver's history
9. Vancouver Bike Sharing System (Mobi)
Bike-sharing system that allows users to rent bikes for short trips around the city.
- Sustainable Transportation: Encourages use of sustainable transportation options
- Convenience: Bikes can be picked up and dropped off at various stations throughout the city
- Cost-effective: Affordable hourly rates make bike sharing a cost-effective option for short trips
10. Broadway Corridor Improvements
Ongoing improvements to reduce congestion and improve public transit along Broadway.
- Reduced Congestion: Improves traffic flow during peak hours
- Transit-Oriented Development: Supports growth of dense, transit-friendly communities
- Improved Safety: Enhances pedestrian and cyclist safety along the corridor
11. Downtown Vancouver Parking Restrictions
Parking restrictions in downtown Vancouver to manage congestion and encourage alternative transportation.
- Reduced Congestion: Helps to reduce vehicle congestion in the city center
- Promoting Alternative Transportation: Encourages use of public transit, cycling, and walking
- Managing Demand: Helps to manage the demand for parking spaces in downtown Vancouver
12. Vancouver Trolley Buses
Electric trolley bus service that operates throughout Vancouver.
- Reduced Emissions: Operates using electricity, reducing emissions compared to diesel buses
- Alternative Transportation: Provides an alternative to driving in Vancouver
- Cost-effective: Electricity is less expensive than diesel, making trolley buses cost-effective
13. Robson Street Pedestrian Mall
Pedestrian-only zone on Robson Street in downtown Vancouver.
- Pedestrian-friendly: Promotes pedestrian safety and comfort
- Shopping Destination: Attracts shoppers looking for retail therapy
- Reduced Congestion: Helps to reduce vehicle congestion in the area
14. Downtown Vancouver Traffic Calming Measures
Various traffic calming measures implemented in downtown Vancouver to reduce congestion and improve safety.
- Reduced Congestion: Improves traffic flow during peak hours
- Improved Safety: Enhances pedestrian and cyclist safety in downtown Vancouver
- Liveable City: Contributes to creating a more livable, sustainable city
15. Vancouver's Cycling Network
Extensive network of cycling lanes and routes throughout Vancouver.
- Sustainable Transportation: Encourages use of sustainable transportation options
- Convenience: Offers a convenient alternative to driving for short trips
- Health and Wellness: Promotes physical activity, contributing to the health and wellness of residents