Temporary repairs to a heavily damaged section of Highway 3, 42 kilometres east of the Highway 3/5 junction, are progressing well, with the highway now expected to reopen on an interim alignment between Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Contractors are working around the clock to restore the highway and the Ministry of Transportation and Transit is sourcing material and supplies as quickly as possible. If conditions continue to be favourable, the ministry could potentially open the highway earlier.

At this site, damaged during heavy rain on Dec. 16, 2025, water undermined and washed away a 50-metre section of the highway. Ministry contractors have cleared the site and are routing the road around the affected slide area to allow traffic through while further interim repairs are completed.  

Initially, it was estimated it could take weeks to restore access. However, engineering confirmed less construction is needed, and utilities do not have to be relocated.  Long-term repairs will require significant design and reconstruction. Drivers will remain on the detour alignment until permanent repairs are completed.

The temporary detour will have a reduced speed limit of 30 km/h and access may initially be restricted to passenger vehicles depending on site conditions.

Work at all other sites on Highway 3 affected by recent flooding and slides aside from paving will be completed by Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.  While these sites will be finished, the Highway 3 corridor will not fully reopen until the detour has been completed.  

Until access is restored at the washout site, Sunshine Valley remains accessible from Hope, while Manning Park Resort can be accessed from Highway 3 via Princeton. Checkpoints remain at Hope and Princeton to advise travellers there is no through traffic.

Currently, people travelling for the holidays between the Lower Mainland and Southern Interior must use an alternative route. While Highway 3 remains closed, drivers can expect heavier than normal volumes on highways 1 and 5. Drive with caution and plan extra time for your journey.

Also, a reminder to drivers that conditions can change quickly. Provincial highways can be closed at any time as conditions warrant. Be prepared for delays and closures by packing warm clothes, snacks and water, and by ensuring your vehicle’s fuel tank or EV battery is full.

For the latest updates, visit: https://DriveBC.ca

Learn More:

• Photos of sites under repair on Highway 3 can be viewed here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCE1X7