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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Check official information sources for weather, wildfire alerts, road closures, and other key visitor resources.
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Know Before You Go

Updated: August 10, 2026

Planning your trip to BC? Find key travel information to plan your BC vacation at SuperNaturalBC.com Know Before You Go.

Travel Updates and Information

There is currently a forest fire near Summerland and Peachland that has caused evacuations across those communities. Other parts of the region remain open and are welcoming visitors.

Penticton accommodators currently have availability, and most businesses including retail, tour operators, food and beverage providers, and attraction hosts continue to operate and are actively assisting all visitors, locals and evacuees.

Please refer to emergency.rdos.bc.ca and Drivebc.ca for live updates before travelling throughout the Okanagan Valley and BC.

Conditions can change quickly, and impacts to communities, transportation routes, services, and visitor experiences may occur with little notice. Staying informed can help you make informed decisions about your travel plans and adjust them if needed. Always monitor official information sources regularly, before and during your trip, to make informed travel decisions. There may be some misinformation spreading on social media, for this reason we do not recommend relying purely on this source for updates.

Please use the following official sources for the latest information:

During your travels, make sure you follow the necessary protocols to prevent and report wildfires:

  • BC Wildfire Status
  • Fire Bans and Restrictions
  • Smoke conditions across the province can change hourly. Check the Air Quality Health Index for real-time updates from across BC
  • Report a wildfire by dialing *5555 on a cellphone or calling toll-free: 1-800-663-5555⁣
  • Please avoid affected areas to give emergency crews the space they need to do their work, and do not travel to view the fire.

Evacuations & Advisories

For Current Updates of the evacuation order, please visit Emergency.rdos.bc.ca.

For Penticton Indian Band evacuation orders and information, visit pib.ca/pib-restrictions.

For those under evacuation order, please refer to ESS.gov.bc.ca to register for support services. An Emergency Support Services reception center is now set up in Penticton at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, located at 273 Power Street.

When travelling in BC, visitors are encouraged to download the Alertable app and customize notifications for the areas you plan to visit.

Roads & Driving

Always check Drive BC before heading out on the road to learn about the current conditions along your planned route, including webcams, closures, restrictions and advisories, construction delays, or detours. 

For current road advisories and information, visit tranbc.ca.

 

Penticton Visitor Centre

The Penticton Visitor Centre & Gift Shop is a valuable source of in-person information. Staff can provide links to official sources, information on current local conditions, suggest alternate routes or experiences, and connect travellers and locals with services and resources in the area.

Located at:
120-888 Westminster Ave W
Penticton, BC
V2A 8S2

Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 9:00am – 4:00pm
Sunday, 9:00am – 3:00pm
Hours may vary at this time.

Contact Us:
Phone: 250-276-2170
Toll free: 1-800-663-5052
Email: ask@visitpenticton.com

 

How To Explore Safely and Responsibly

Situated between two large fresh water lakes, ample green space, local wildlife, an abundance of wineries, vineyards and orchards, and never ending trails to explore, it is no wonder travellers choose to visit Penticton. But in order to ensure Penticton remains beautiful we ask you respect and care for the land, the people and our way of life during your stay.

If you are planning to visit Penticton, here are some guidelines for exploring our community.

  • Do not travel if you are sick
  • Support local, dine at the local restaurants, book an activity or a tour, and find a unique accommodation
  • Plan ahead and book activities, accommodation, dining reservations, wine tastings and experiences in advance. Review the booking and cancellation policies
  • Respect the people, businesses, and communities you visit, and respect the safety procedures enacted by the businesses you visit
  • Respect local wildlife. Pack out what you pack in and dispose of waste properly
  • If you encounter wildlife during your adventures, please remember to keep your distance and recognize that you are a visitor to their home
  • Remember that delays and disruptions can happen at any time of year. Take your time, take care of each other, and practice patience
  • Adhere to any local closures or restricted access to communities

 

Tips for Being Safe While Participating in Outdoor Activities

  • Always check the current weather conditions and weather alerts along your planned journey before heading out
  • Plan your travel route, let someone know where you’re going and when
  • Know the terrain and conditions. Know and stay within your limits
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn from the experts. Build up your endurance on short trails before attempting longer trails or more challenging terrain
  • Practice low-risk activities and recreation
  • Bring water. Fuel your body before heading outside and pack an additional nutritious snack and water to take along
  • Pack in and pack out. Do not leave anything behind
  • Dress for the weather and pack extra layers. Bring sunscreen and a hat
  • Stay informed and respect any trail, beach, park, or local area closures as posted
  • Be AdventureSmart at all times and follow the 3 T’s: Trip Plan, Train, and Take Essentials