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Road Conditions

Vancouver to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99)

The beautiful two-hour drive from Vancouver to Whistler is the start of your adventure, where you can see the waters of Howe Sound, snow-capped peaks, waterfalls and canyons. This is a mountain highway, a route where rain, snow and even wildlife can affect driving conditions – here are some resources to help prepare for the drive.

Live Weather and Road Conditions

Always check DriveBC for current road conditions and follow @DriveBC on X for the latest updates.


Special Advisory

June 16, 2025: The Dryden Creek Wildfire is an active wildfire currently burning in our neighbouring community of Squamish. The BC Wildfire Service now classifies this fire as Being Held, meaning it is projected to remain within its current perimeter. There is no threat to Whistler at this time and Highway 99 remains open. Any travellers passing through Squamish on their way to Whistler are are encouraged to stay informed using official information sources including the District of Squamish, the BC Wildfire Service, DriveBC and the BC Air Quality Index.

Events

RBC GranFondo – September 6, 2025

Traffic pattern changes will be in effect on the day of the ride. Highway 99 will be affected – please adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Visit the RBC Granfondo Website for information on traffic advisories or learn more about RBC GranFondo.

Winter Tires Required on Sea to Sky Highway from October 1 to March 31

The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) is a mountain highway where conditions can be unpredictable due to rapid changes in elevation and weather. A trip that starts in sunshine may also encounter slush, ice, heavy snowfall or compact snow. For safety in winter conditions, passenger vehicles are required to have winter tires installed to drive the Sea to Sky Highway between October and March.

The following information from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure of British Columbia outlines the requirements for winter tires in the province. Please read and ensure your vehicle complies*:

*Winter tire requirements are set by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure for British Columbia and may change without notice - always check their website for the latest information.

Peak Travel Time Congestion

Consider these tips to avoid traffic and help reduce congestion on the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler during peak travel times. Peak times include Friday afternoons and evenings, weekends and holidays.

  • Travel during non-peak times by visiting Whistler midweek when the highway and resort are typically quieter
  • Extend your weekend – plan to arrive on Thursday night and leave on Monday morning to avoid weekend traffic
  • Consider taking a shuttle - it's also better for the environment!
  • If you’re only visiting Whistler for the day, plan on staying for dinner to avoid the rush of day skier traffic leaving the resort after the mountain closes
Two hikers trek across a rocky alpine ridge in Whistler as the sun sets behind jagged peaks, casting a golden glow over the landscape. 'Feel It All' captures the essence of adventure in the mountains.

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