Monthly Update (August 2026):
Peace Arch was particularly busy around the August long weekend, when travelers reported waits of several hours heading back into the United States, well above the usual summer pattern. The crossing has since settled, but the episode is a good illustration of how quickly queues can build here when Vancouver-area holiday traffic peaks. For August travelers, the Pacific Highway and Sumas crossings remain useful alternatives when Peace Arch backs up.
About this crossing
Historical Background
Established in the early 1900s, the Peace Arch crossing grew with the region’s fishing and logging industries. The 1921 Peace Arch monument, symbolizing U.S.-Canada friendship, marked a milestone. During Prohibition, smugglers used nearby beaches, with a 1924 rumrunner chase becoming local lore. The 1960s saw traffic surge with highway expansions, and today it handles millions of vehicles yearly. Occasional trade disputes over seafood or lumber add tension, but the arch’s message of peace endures, making it a cultural landmark.
Crossing Details and Wait Times
Northbound, you’ll stop at Blaine’s CBP office for an exit stamp, then reach Surrey’s Canadian immigration, needing a passport and possibly a $7 CAD eTA (apply online). Southbound, expect a Canadian exit stamp and U.S. entry rules, typically a passport for visa-exempt travelers. Open 24/7, passenger waits are typically under 15 minutes with no delay reported recently, but rush hours (7 to 10 AM, 4 to 7 PM) can hit longer. Summer and holidays spike delays slightly. Check CBSA’s CanBorder app or CBP’s Border Wait Times for live updates.
Nearby Border Crossings
Scams & Warnings
Scams are prevalent in busy Surrey, with “visa helpers” charging $20 to $50 for fake services. Bogus “customs offices” may overcharge for forms use only CBSA/CBP channels and secure an eTA online. Currency exchange scams near the crossing offer poor rates; carry USD/CAD cash or use Blaine ATMs. Pickpocketing risks soar during tourist season, so secure valuables. Avoid “fast-track” offers they’re scams targeting travelers in crowded conditions.
Transportation Options
From Bellingham, it’s a 20-minute drive to Blaine via I-5. From Vancouver, Highway 99 reaches Surrey in 40 minutes. Buses like Greyhound stop in Bellingham, but none go directly to the border, so drive or rent a car. Taxis and rideshares are plentiful confirm fares upfront to avoid surprises. Gas and services are in Blaine or Surrey, 5 to 10 minutes away. Pedestrians can cross via Peace Arch Park but need a pickup arranged.
Road Conditions and Views
I-5 and Highway 99 are well-paved but congested during rush hours. Summer (June to August) is clear; winter (November to March) brings rain and occasional snow, requiring cautious driving. The Fraser Valley and distant Coast Mountains offer stunning views, with summer highs of 25°C and winter lows of 0°C. Check Washington’s 511 or BC’s (800) 550-4997 for road updates. The Peace Arch and ocean vistas make it a scenic drive, especially in fall.
Local Sights
Blaine’s Peace Arch State Park, 5 minutes south, features gardens and the historic arch. Surrey’s Redwood Park, 15 minutes north, offers trails and picnic spots. Try Blaine’s fish and chips at The Vault or Surrey’s butter chicken at Tasty Indian Bistro. Vancouver’s Stanley Park, 40 minutes north, is a nature lover’s haven, while Bellingham’s Whatcom Museum, 20 minutes south, explores regional history.
Cultural and Economic Role
This crossing blends Washington’s coastal vibe with BC’s multicultural energy, seen in shared events like Surrey’s Fusion Festival, showcasing global cuisines and music. It supports trade in agriculture, tech, and seafood, fueling both economies. Blaine’s small-town charm and Surrey’s urban growth thrive on cross-border visitors. Community markets, art fairs, and hockey games foster a strong binational bond, with locals sharing a love for the outdoors and diverse cultures.
Travel Tips
Open 24/7, but check CBSA/CBP for holiday schedules. Carry USD/CAD for duty-free shops or fees. An eTA saves time for visa-exempt travelers. Winter drivers need rain gear; check Washington’s 511 or BC’s (800) 550-4997 for road conditions. Declare all goods agents are strict on alcohol and produce. Secure valuables in this busy crossing and pack snacks for potential waits during peak tourist seasons.
Extra Tips for Visitors
Cell service is reliable but spotty in rural areas download maps ahead. Summer traffic clogs roads; winter rain demands cautious driving. Locals are welcoming ask about 1920s smuggler beach runs for fun stories. Try Blaine’s Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. for fresh seafood or Surrey’s Old Surrey Restaurant for hearty meals. Photographers, catch sunset over the Peace Arch for iconic shots. This crossing’s historic charm and vibrant energy make it a Pacific Northwest highlight.
View all border crossings between United States and CanadaPractical information
Fuel
United States: 500 m - Canada: 500 m
Currency
Available near Blaine (USD, CAD)
Safety information
Generally safe, busy traffic
Connectivity
Wi-Fi at checkpoints, 4G/5G
Have you crossed here?
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