The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Abbotsford to Chilliwack, BC

Going on a scenic car ride is one of the best ways to explore British Columbia. One of my favourite routes for a quick escape is from Abbotsford to Chilliwack! While both are relatively small towns, each has its own unique charms. Whether you're heading to Chilliwack for some outdoor adventures or simply to take in the beautiful scenery, you'll want to make sure you choose the best route for your journey. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the different route options and the time it takes to drive from Abbotsford to Chilliwack.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are two main routes that you can take when driving from Abbotsford to Chilliwack: the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and the River Road. The Trans-Canada Highway is by far the most direct and quickest route, taking approximately 25 minutes in ideal driving conditions. This route is a comfortable drive with a speed limit of 100 km/h.

If you're looking for a longer, more scenic route, take the River Road via the Fraser River. This route is approximately 30 km longer than the Trans-Canada Highway, and your drive time will depend heavily on traffic flow on the day. On a good day, it could take around 35 minutes, but it could take up to an hour in peak traffic conditions. The River Road route is an enjoyable drive with views of the river, farmland, and mountain ranges.

Distance and Travel Time

The route you choose will determine the distance and travel time required for your trip. For the direct Trans-Canada Highway route, the distance is roughly 28 km. However, if you opt for the River Road route, you can expect to travel around 58 km. The distance may not seem too significant, but it can make a difference in the amount of time you spend on the road.

In addition to the distance, consider the traffic flow, as this can also affect your travel time. When traveling on the Trans-Canada Highway, which is a major highway, be prepared for higher traffic volume during peak times. In comparison, River Road typically experiences lower traffic volume, but during the harvest season, it could take longer due to the heavy farm equipment on the road.

Peak vs. Low Traffic Times

If you're looking to plan your trip, the best time to go is during off-peak hours. Peak travel times on both routes fall between 6:30 am to 9:00 am and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on weekdays. If you need to travel during these hours, the River Road route may be a better option, especially during harvest season, when heavy truck traffic causes delays on the Trans-Canada Highway. For those looking to travel during low traffic times, the best time is during evenings or early morning on weekends when roads are generally less congested.

In conclusion, there are two main routes available when driving from Abbotsford to Chilliwack. The Trans-Canada Highway is the most direct, fastest, and reliable, while River Road is a scenic, longer and more adventurous route. Your travel time will be affected by the traffic flow, so be sure to check the peak traffic times and plan accordingly. Overall, both routes have their perks and highlights, and ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the purpose of your trip.

What is your favourite route to take between Abbotsford and Chilliwack? Let me know in the comment section below!