Drives British Columbia The Okanagan, the Kootenays and the BC Interior
Highway 33: Kelowna to Rock Creek
Okanagan Highlands, British Columbia · Rutland → Rock Creek
The drive
Highway 33 leaves Rutland, on the east edge of Kelowna, and climbs over the Okanagan Highlands before running south to Rock Creek on Highway 3. It is the main access to the Big White ski resort. After the Big White turnoff, the road goes quiet.
South of the highlands the highway follows the West Kettle River through ranch and forest country. Beaverdell, 48 kilometers north of Rock Creek, is the only other community on the route. The curves are gentle and the traffic is light.
Services are few, so top off the tank in Kelowna.
Along the way
- Rutland
- Beaverdell
- Rock Creek
Good to know
- Residents report heavy afternoon traffic coming down from Big White.
- There are no passing lanes on parts of the climb out of Kelowna.
- Services are few south of the Big White turnoff.
- The speed limit drops to 60 km/h between Westbridge and Rock Creek.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check DriveBC.
Questions about this drive
How long does Highway 33 from Kelowna to Rock Creek take?
Highway 33 from Rutland to Rock Creek is 78 miles and takes about 1 hr 30 min.
What towns are on Highway 33?
Highway 33 passes Joe Rich, Big White, Beaverdell and Westbridge between Kelowna and Rock Creek.
Is Highway 33 a good alternative to Highway 97?
It is a quieter route between Kelowna and Rock Creek on Highway 3, but it has few services.
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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.