Coquihalla Highway 5 Road Conditions

Cross the Coquihalla Summit on Highway 5 — know the conditions and timing before the pass closes. This guide introduces seasonal risks along the Highway 5 (Coquihalla) corridor. Open your route in TripCaptain to check the forecast, compare departure times and follow changes as you travel.

Winter Driving Pattern

The Coquihalla climbs fast — from about 40 m (130 ft) at Hope to the Coquihalla Summit at 1,244 m (4,081 ft), reached partway along the roughly 115 km (71 mi) run to Merritt — and the weather changes just as quickly with it. From October into April, storms off the coast drop heavy snow at summit elevation, often 20–40 cm (8–16 in) from a single system, while the valleys below stay wet or clear. Winter tires or carried chains are required by law on this highway from October 1 through April 30, and the requirement is enforced on the climb. Overnight lows near and below −15 °C (5 °F) leave black ice on shaded curves and the long descents at dawn and after dusk, and avalanche control or a crash can close the summit with no marked detour. Because conditions at the top can differ sharply from Hope or Merritt, and because a closure can turn a 90-minute drive into hours of waiting, the safest crossings are timed to a clear window between storms. Know before you leave whether the pass is open and what the road looks like at summit elevation for your departure time, not just at either end.

Common Hazards on This Corridor

• Heavy summit snow: The Coquihalla Summit tops 1,244 m (4,081 ft), where a single coastal system can drop 20–40 cm (8–16 in) of snow while the valleys stay wet. Know before you leave whether snow is moving over the summit on your departure window.
• Avalanche & crash closures: Slide paths and multi-vehicle crashes can shut the highway with no marked detour; the official pass status decides whether the road is open before you commit to the climb.
• Black ice: Shaded curves and the long descents hold black ice when temperatures sit near or below 0 °C (32 °F), especially at dawn and after dusk. It's hard to see and easy to skid on.
• Summer wildfire smoke & heat: In summer, wildfire smoke can settle over the corridor and cut visibility for hours, while valley heat near 35 °C (95 °F) strains vehicles on the long climb. Check the corridor and your departure time before you set out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Coquihalla (Highway 5) safe to drive today?

It depends on the day's conditions. In winter, snow, black ice, and avalanche or crash closures can make the summit dangerous, while a clear window between storms can be perfectly safe. Check the official pass status before you leave; TripCaptain checks your specific route and departure time to tell you what to expect at the summit.

Do I need winter tires or chains on the Coquihalla?

Yes. Winter tires or carried chains are required by law on this highway from October 1 through April 30, and the requirement is enforced at the pass. Even outside those dates, carry chains if snow is in the forecast for the summit.

How often does the Coquihalla close, and when?

Closures are most common from October through April, when heavy storms, avalanche control, and multi-vehicle crashes can shut the summit — sometimes for hours and with no marked detour. Shorter summer closures also happen for wildfires. Check the official pass status and posted traction laws before you commit to the climb.

What is the best time of day and year to cross the Coquihalla Summit?

Summer offers the calmest driving — leave early in the morning, ahead of afternoon heat and any wildfire smoke. In winter, aim for a clear midday window between storms and avoid dawn and dusk, when black ice is most likely and an overnight storm can still be covering the road.

How high is the Coquihalla Summit, and how long is the corridor?

The Coquihalla Summit reaches 1,244 m (4,081 ft), climbing from about 40 m (130 ft) at Hope. The Hope-to-Merritt corridor on Highway 5 runs roughly 115 km (71 mi), with most of the elevation gain packed into the climb to the summit.

What should I carry, and what if I get stranded on the Coquihalla?

Run winter tires or chains and a full tank, and pack warm layers, a blanket, water, snacks, and a charged phone. If the pass closes or a storm hits, wait it out — stay with your vehicle, keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and let the road reopen rather than driving into a whiteout.

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