Driving to Prince Rupert in early-mid April (Juneau and, Bethel: how much, campground)

[Redwoods]

I searched the forums and couldn't find much information specifically about driving up to Prince Rupert in early to mid April. I will be working in Juneau and I'd like to bring my car over on the ferry.

What are the roads through BC generally like? Is there generally a lot of snow and ice that time of year? I looked at the BC road conditions website / map and see several places marked "falling ice" "black ice" and all sorts of fun things. But I'm not sure what the roads will be like in a month.... Also, are there a lot of high passes? Is it mostly driving through the mountains?

I'd be driving up alone and would prefer not to run into any trouble along the way. I'm trying to decide whether to drive and ferry or just fly and make do without a car up there.

Thanks so much for any advice you might have!!

[akck]

Assuming you're driving up through Washington, you should have no problems as the road is well traveled. There's always the chance of a late winter snow storm, but even if you hit one, it's unlikely to delay you more than a day. For the most part, you should find the roads bare, free from snow. There could be some early morning frost. It's paved the whole way, but you might find find some gravel sections where they are doing road work. Be aware of the ferry departure times. It's unlikely you'll be able to make a ferry leaving in the morning without staying overnight in Prince Rupert. Also figure you'll have to overnight somewhere around Prince George after leaving Washington. If I remember correctly, it's about 20 hours from Seattle to Prince Rupert. Make the border crossing at Sumas (turnoff at Bellingham) instead of Blaine as you'll save 1/2 to 1 hour. You'll need a passport to cross the border and they don't like DUI convictions on your record. Certain guns are restricted too.

[stiffnecked]

You won't have any problems at all in April. Nothing but clear road. It's cheaper to stay in Quesnel then in Prince George.

[Redwoods]

Wonderful! Thank you so much for the information - I really appreciate it

[warptman]

I like this place south of Prince George.

Kreekside - Motel, Campground and Trailer Park

[Captain Crunch]

Its actually a very easy drive and April is far enough into spring to not encounter and "winter weather"

Turn off I-5 onto the Guide Meridian in Bellingham (Lynden Exit) and proceed to the Sumas Border Crossing, which is about 45 minutes.

From there you simply head east to Hope BC and north into the Frazer Canyon....neat country all the way to Prince George.

At Prince George ya head west on the Yellowhead, Hwy 16...450 miles...lots to see so take your time if ya can

Its about 800 miles from Sumas to Prince Rupert...all easy driving

[Redwoods]

Great info - Thanks! I was a little worried about the drive, but this info makes me feel a lot better about it!

[warptman]

Bethel Alaska Photo Gallery - Joe Joe's Alcan Trip 2006

This was my solo drive in 2006 to Seattle and back with a few side trips. There are shots of BC in it.

[Captain Crunch]

Warp is the master travel guru here....

[Redwoods]

Thanks for all the info! Another question - will I need to bring a full-sized spare tire? I've heard it's wise when traveling the whole Alcan, but would I need one for this route? If I need one, any ideas on how much it would cost to get one?

Thanks!