Image: BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit / Repair work underway along the Crowsnest Highway between Hope and Manning Park.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Highway 3 from Hope to Manning Park

Extensive damage found at 11 sites along Hwy. 3 between Hope and Manning Park, keeping it closed for now

Dec 17, 2025 | 11:17 AM

CROWSNEST HIGHWAY — The B.C. government now says the extreme weather events from last week resulted in “extensive damage” to 11 sites along HIghway 3 between Hope and Manning Park, warranting its indefinite closure.

According to a statement from the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Transit, work is well underway to repair the Crowsnest Highway at multiple locations between Hope and Manning Park following damage from washouts and debris.

An estimated timeline for reopening is currently unknown.

The ministry says damage consists of five culvert failures resulting in partial road washouts. These sites require excavation and full culvert replacement. Altogether, damage occurred at 22 sites, of which 11 sustained “extensive damage.”

At another site that was discovered on the morning of Tuesday morning, Dec. 16, a culvert has been blocked and water has undermined and washed away a portion of the highway and roadside barrier. The damage at the new site is substantial but cannot be fully assessed until slope conditions stabilize and crews have safe access.

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Image: BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit

Five other sites have large volumes of material deposited onto the roadway, blocking drainage.

The Ministry of Transportation and Transit says its contractors have more than 40 pieces of equipment, 55 personnel and 15 technical experts dedicated to repairs. Crews are working around the clock to reopen Highway 3 as quickly and safely as possible.

Work underway includes removing debris, stabilizing slopes, repairing damaged road surfaces and restoring drainage systems to reduce the risk of further damage from additional rainfall.

This corridor continues to experience heavy rain and snow in some areas. Since several affected sites fall within known avalanche hazard areas, avalanche risk assessments are being conducted to ensure worker and public safety.

An estimated timeline for opening the highway will be known once geotechnical engineers are able to assess the most recent damage.

The ministry says it will continue to monitor weather conditions and adjust construction activities as needed to ensure the safety of travellers and workers.

While Highway 3 remains closed, drivers can expect heavier than normal volumes on Highway 1 (Fraser Canyon) and Highway 5 (Coquihalla).