The Okanagan Highway, also known as Highway 97, is a major north-south route that runs through the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. Starting in the south at the US-Canada border, the highway winds its way north for over 400 kilometers, passing through scenic towns and cities such as Osoyoos, Penticton, Kelowna, and Vernon.
The Okanagan Connector in British Columbia is a highway that runs through the beautiful Okanagan Valley, connecting the city of Merritt to the city of Kelowna. The highway, also known as Highway 97C, is a major transportation artery for the region, providing a vital link between the interior of British Columbia and the west coast of Canada.
The Okanagan Connector was constructed in the 1980s and has undergone several upgrades over the years to improve safety and capacity. The highway is now a modern, four-lane divided highway with a speed limit of 110 km/h, making it a quick and efficient way to travel between Merritt and Kelowna.
Dash cam: Driving the Okanagan Connector (BC 97C)
One of the main features of the Okanagan Connector is its stunning scenery. The highway winds through the beautiful mountains and valleys of the Okanagan region, offering drivers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Despite its scenic beauty, the Okanagan Connector can also be a challenging drive. The highway is subject to extreme weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and strong winds, which can make driving hazardous. It is essential that drivers take caution when driving on the Okanagan Connector, especially during the winter months when snow tires and chains are required.
The summit is a challenging stretch of the highway, particularly during the winter months when heavy snowfall and strong winds can make driving hazardous. The area around Pennask Summit is also home to a number of recreational opportunities, including skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the Pennask Summit is an important link in the Okanagan Connector, providing a crucial link between Merritt and Kelowna and contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
A drive along the Okanagan Highway is an unforgettable journey through the heart of British Columbia’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
