Best/Worst Times to Cross the Border (Vancouver, Lynden: construction, eat)

[cindycat]

It's been many years (before 9-11) since we drove the Peace Arch crossing. We're planning a trip to Vancouver BC later this month. We're retired, so we have some flexibility in our schedule. What are the best days/times to cross into and out of Canada? What are the days and times we should absolutely avoid? Thanks!

[nwcountrygal]

I just did Sumas (Abbortsford) Border back and forth to Alaska. It is a little of the way but had no wait time at night. Even in the am the signs didn't have a wait list. Just make sure you have your passport. They ask you now if you have enough $$ and how long you will be in the country. Don't bring any fruit back was crossing back into WA. It was weird though when I came back into WA they take a picture of you and vehicle no other border crossings did this including Alaska.

[kanhawk]

I have only used the I-5 crossing once and it was on a Sunday afternoon and the wait was terrible. Keep in mind there is a lot of construction going on I-5 near the peace arch to improve the crossing.

Here is info on congestion and the best times to go:
WSDOT - Canadian Border - Average travel delays

[StealthRabbit]

I haven't done a 'post 9/11' at I-5. I usually use the truck crossing (SR 543- slightly east) or Lynden (SR 539 / Guide Meridian) . (Good reason to stop for some good eats there, especially breakfast!!)

[nfdsouza2001]

I travel to Canada frequently. I prefer the Lynden Crossing. The only drawback is it and most of the other crossings except the peace arch close at midnite. Tropical fruits are a no no as the meats that are not labeled or prepared in a commercial facility. Don't be alarmed about the picture taking that has been going on for years,prior to 9/11.

[David Aguilar]

Worst time: in the daytime.

Best time: when nobody's looking.





We always used to use the Sumas crossing because going out of the way to it was apparently faster than going to the Peace Arch.

[cindycat]

Hey, thanks for the ideas. The WSDOT chart is good and I hadn't thought about alternate routes. Looks like we'll plan to take one of those.

And, SillyRabbit , where are those good eats in Lynden?

Thanks again, ya'll.

CC

[nwcountrygal]

I crossed Sumas/Lynden way at 2am on the way up it wasn't closed.

[sean98125]

WSDOT - Canadian Border - Average travel delays

[ATXIronHorse]

Originally Posted by cindycat

It's been many years (before 9-11) since we drove the Peace Arch crossing. We're planning a trip to Vancouver BC later this month. We're retired, so we have some flexibility in our schedule. What are the best days/times to cross into and out of Canada? What are the days and times we should absolutely avoid? Thanks!

WSDOT Canadian Border Traffic - I-5: Peace Arch Park