Monthly Update (August 2026):
The Pacific Highway crossing has also been feeling the summer surge, but it has generally handled peak periods better than Peace Arch. Around the August long weekend, travelers reported waits of roughly three hours at times, showing that the quieter-looking alternative can also fill up when traffic across the Blaine crossings rises together. Outside those peaks, Pacific Highway has continued to move relatively well, particularly for travelers who can avoid the busiest periods.
About this crossing
Historical Background
Established in the early 1900s, this crossing supported the region’s logging and fishing industries. Named for the Pacific Highway, it grew with the 1920s border road development. During Prohibition, smugglers used nearby fields, with a 1926 rumrunner chase becoming local legend. The 1990s saw trade soar with NAFTA, boosting freight traffic. Today, it handles millions of vehicles annually, though occasional trade disputes over lumber or seafood cause delays, reflecting its critical economic role.
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 freight surges (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 updates.
Nearby Border Crossings
Scams & Warnings
Scams are common 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 rise 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 and SR 543. From Vancouver, Highway 13 reaches Surrey in 45 minutes. Buses like Greyhound stop in Bellingham, but none go to the border, so drive or rent a car. Taxis and rideshares are plentiful confirm fares upfront. Gas and services are in Blaine or Surrey, 5 to 10 minutes away. Pedestrians can cross but need a pickup arranged on the other side.
Road Conditions and Views
SR 543 and Highway 13 are well-paved but busy 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 lush greenery and mountain backdrop make it a scenic drive, especially in fall.
Local Sights
Blaine’s Peace Arch State Park, 5 minutes south, features historic monuments and gardens. Surrey’s Bear Creek 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, 45 minutes north, is a must for nature lovers, while Bellingham’s Whatcom Museum, 20 minutes south, dives into regional history.
Cultural and Economic Role
This crossing blends Washington’s outdoor spirit with BC’s multicultural vibe, seen in shared events like Surrey’s Fusion Festival, showcasing global cuisines. It supports trade in agriculture and tech, fueling both economies. Blaine’s coastal charm and Surrey’s urban growth thrive on cross-border visitors. Community markets, music festivals, and hockey games foster a strong binational bond, with locals sharing a love for seafood and outdoor adventures.
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 hours.
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 tales for fun insights. Try Blaine’s Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. for fresh seafood or Surrey’s Old Surrey Restaurant for steak. Photographers, catch sunset over the Fraser Valley. This crossing’s vibrant energy and scenic beauty make it a Pacific Northwest gem.
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, heavy traffic
Connectivity
Wi-Fi at checkpoints, 4G/5G
Have you crossed here?
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