Before you start
Read the motorhome or tow vehicle owner's manual and any trailer, hitch, tire and brake-controller manuals. Check vehicle labels and make a walk-around inspection. Road, weather and legal requirements may change along a multi-province trip.
Step-by-step guide
1 Step 1
Check your route for steep grades, switchbacks, tunnels, closures and vehicle restrictions before departure.
2 Step 2
Review weather, chain/tire requirements and road reports for the provinces on your route.
3 Step 3
Start descents at a safe speed and select an appropriate lower gear before the grade steepens.
4 Step 4
Use engine braking or an exhaust brake according to the vehicle manual; avoid continuous service-brake application.
5 Step 5
Leave more following distance and avoid sudden lane changes on curves or in crosswinds.
6 Step 6
Use designated pullouts to let traffic pass and to inspect the rig; never stop on a blind curve.
7 Step 7
If brakes smell hot or performance changes, stop safely and seek professional assistance before continuing.
Common problems and troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible cause | Safer next action |
|---|---|---|
| Brakes smell hot | Overuse on long descent | Stop at a safe pullout; let brakes cool; get service if performance is abnormal |
| Engine overheats climbing | High load, hot weather or cooling fault | Reduce demand and stop safely; follow manual instructions |
| Snow/ice on route | Changing elevation and weather | Delay travel or comply with current tire/chain rules; do not assume all-season tires qualify |
Canadian considerations
For British Columbia, check DriveBC and provincial winter-tire/chain requirements; in Alberta, use 511 Alberta. Rules and designated routes can change seasonally.
Before a trip, check the applicable provincial or territorial transportation authority for licence, dimensions, towing equipment and seasonal road rules. Posted signs and current official notices take priority over general online guides.
Pre-departure checklist
- Confirm vehicle and trailer weights, ratings and tire condition.
- Check lights, mirrors, hitch or cargo security, and emergency equipment.
- Review weather, construction, road restrictions and fuel stops.
- Allow extra time and a safe place to stop if conditions deteriorate.
- Have a passenger or spotter help only when they can remain in a safe location.
Official resources
These links are useful starting points; check the specific page and date for current requirements.
- Transport Canada — road safety
- British Columbia driver licensing
- Ontario Driver’s Handbook
- DriveBC road conditions
- 511 Alberta
Related RV guides
Plan the route
Mountain highways in British Columbia and Alberta include long grades, tunnels and changing weather. Check road conditions on provincial sites such as DriveBC and 511 Alberta before you leave.
Going uphill
- Use a lower gear to keep the engine in its power band.
- Watch engine temperature and transmission temperature.
- Use pull-outs to let faster traffic by.
Going downhill
- Select a lower gear before the descent begins.
- Use engine braking and brake in short, firm applications rather than riding the pedal.
- Pull into designated brake-check areas where provided.
Know the signs
Runaway vehicle ramps are marked on steep descents. Know where they are, and do not hesitate to use one.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need winter tires in the mountains?
Winter tires or chains are required on most BC routes from October 1 to April 30, and some highways end on March 31. Check the BC government’s designated routes page for how the rules apply to your RV.
Is it safe to tow in high winds?
Strong wind and gusts can make towing dangerous. Delay travel if needed.