Burnaby, BC → Victoria, BC

Your journey from Burnaby to Victoria spans approximately 77 miles and takes roughly one hour and eighteen minutes, making it one of British Columbia's most accessible cross-water routes. You'll begin by heading south through Burnaby's suburban streets toward Highway 1, which merges seamlessly into Highway 99 as you approach the Canada-US border crossing at Blaine, Washington. Rather than crossing into the United States, however, you'll want to take the BC Ferries route, which involves driving south on Highway 99 to the ferry terminal near Tsawwassen. This leg offers gentle, mostly flat terrain as you transition from the Greater Vancouver urban area into the quieter suburban and industrial zones heading toward the coast.

The actual ferry crossing to Swartz Bay represents the true highlight of this route, offering stunning views of the Strait of Georgia and the Gulf Islands scattered across the water. From your vehicle on the deck or from the passenger lounges, you'll witness the dramatic shift from the mainland's tree-lined shores to the open water, with opportunities to spot distant mountain peaks and, if you're fortunate, marine wildlife. This crossing typically takes about ninety minutes, giving you ample time to stretch your legs, grab refreshments, or simply soak in the maritime scenery that makes this journey memorable.

Once you dock at Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island's Saanich Peninsula, you'll drive north on Highway 17, a scenic and relatively straightforward route that descends gradually through forests and pastoral farmland. The drive into Victoria itself passes through charming small communities like Sidney before arriving at the provincial capital, where the landscape opens to reveal the city's iconic waterfront and parliament buildings. This entire route is most pleasant during late spring through early fall when ferries run on predictable schedules and visibility is excellent; winter crossings can be rougher and occasionally subject to service disruptions, though the route remains accessible year-round for patient travelers.

The 77-mile drive from Burnaby, British Columbia to Victoria, British Columbia takes approximately 1h 17m under normal conditions. Weather along this route can vary significantly, especially through mountainous terrain where elevation changes can bring sudden weather shifts. Route Outlook helps you find the safest time to travel by showing you weather conditions at every point along your route, timed to when you'll actually be there.

Common Weather Hazards on This Route

• Winter storms and heavy snowfall (November through April)
• Black ice on mountain passes and bridges
• Dense fog, especially during early morning hours

Seasonal Driving Considerations

Mountain passes along this corridor can be treacherous from October through May, with chain requirements, road closures, and whiteout conditions at higher elevations. Summer brings its own challenges — afternoon thunderstorms are common above 7,000 feet, and construction season narrows lanes on key highways. Always check pass conditions before departing, and carry emergency supplies during the colder months.

Best Time to Drive Burnaby to Victoria

For shorter trips like this 77-mile drive, morning departures typically offer the best conditions with lighter traffic and better visibility. Avoid rush hour periods (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) if possible.

Driving Strategy

At 77 miles, the Burnaby to Victoria drive is short enough to complete in a single stretch. Still, check conditions along the route before you leave — a quick glance at live traffic cameras can confirm road visibility and surface conditions. If bad weather is forecasted for a narrow window, adjusting your departure by even an hour can make a significant difference in safety.

Frequently Asked Questions