Ride: Princeton - Summerland Road

A country road from Princeton to Summerland. About 2/3 is paved, the rest is packed gravel of varying condition. The best choice of bike would be something like a BMW GS, Africa Twin, or a KLR650 or DR650; the gravel portion is passable on a street bike, but there were some moderately rough sections when I rode through here last. A good ride with some nice corners and scenery.

From Princeton the road hugs the hillside as it rises out of the valley for several kilometres. The road is paved and was in decent condition with some nice corners. There are a lot of homes, ranches and farms along the majority of the paved portion of the route. There are four lakes along the way. At least most of them offer public access and some camping (BC Recreation Sites). There are a lot of deer in the area, so be careful, especially in the late afternoon or evening.

The road becomes gravel about 47 km from Princeton. It starts off in good condition but degrades somewhat as you get closer to Summerland - pot holes, washboard sections, some tight corners, ups and downs. The route is still passable on a street bike, but if you were riding towards Princeton you may encounter a few spots where traction may be a bit limited on some inclines because of washboard and a bit of loose gravel. There are multiple KVR access points along the gravel section. The gravel lasts for about 36 km. The following paved stretch heading down into Summerland is quite steep with tight corners. Watch for sand on the road (I had one slip). Road conditions may vary throughout the year and from year to year.

I rode the last 30 km in the dark, but there was some moonlight. From what I could see of the area, it looked to be scenic with good views. I'll ride this road again (or the KVR section) as some point.

0 km - Old Hedley Road and Hwy 5A - take Old Hedley Road
0.2 km - Princeton - Summerland Road - first left after crossing Hwy 5A
36.1 km - Chain Lake Recreation Site
44.7 km - gravel road begins
53.8 km - dam below road
81 km (approx.) - pavement begins
95.6 km - Hwy 97 at Summerland

Princeton was evacuated in 2021 due to floods. Check conditions before traveling the route.

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