Visiting Bass Coast from the U.S.
THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO VISIT CANADA
Welcome to Bass Coast, a cornerstone of Pacific Northwest underground electronic music and art. For 17 years, we've showcased innovators in electronic music, emerging sounds, and large-scale art installations. Set alongside a freshwater river between meadows and green pastures, Bass Coast stands as one of Canada's longest-running celebrations of music, art, and community. We warmly welcome our US neighbors to join us across the border for this unique cultural experience.
------------------
This page is intended as a resource for first timers coming from the United States. Please scroll through the information below to help guide you through how easy it is to visit Canada and experience Bass Coast.
*price may vary slightly due to exchange rates
General Admission Ticket: loading... USD
Getting to Merritt from the US
Drive Times from Major Cities
Seattle – ~5.5 hours
Portland – ~8.5 hours
Spokane – ~6 hours
San Francisco – ~16 hours
Bellingham – ~3 hours
Drive Times from Major Cities
- Seattle – ~5.5 hours
- Portland – ~8.5 hours
- Spokane – ~6 hours
- San Francisco – ~16 hours
- Bellingham – ~3 hours
Air Travel
- Nearest airport: Kamloops (YKA) - 1.25 hr drive
- Kelowna International Airport (YLW) – 2.0 hr drive
- Vancouver International Airport (YVR) – ~3 hr drive
- Car rentals available at both
Documents Required
- Valid passport
- Enhanced driver’s license (Washington, Michigan, etc.) is not always guaranteed — passport is best
- NEXUS card (if applicable)
Border Tips
- Answer questions honestly and succinctly
- Know where you’re going and for how long
- Be aware of restricted/prohibited items (see below)
Prohibited Items
- NO Cannabis (legal in Canada, but not at the border)
- Firearms and pepper spray
- Certain food items (especially fresh produce, meat)
MORE INFO https://inspection.canada.ca/en/food-safety-consumers/bring-food-personal-use
Pro Tip
- Clean your car before crossing (no forgotten apples or weed gummies)
Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD), but US credit and debit cards work almost everywhere.
- Call your bank to avoid card blocks.
- Roaming charges: check your cell plan, many carriers (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T) include roaming in Canada
- WiFi available at select locations in town
- U.S. health insurance typically doesn’t cover you in Canada
- Consider travel insurance or check your credit card coverage
- Emergency services: 911 works in Canada
Discover the hidden gem of Merritt - where small-town charm meets convenience. Explore a vibrant mix of beloved local treasures and your favourite big-name retailers, all in one destination. Learn more about Merritt HERE
Please read our harm reduction information page to learn more about our approach to care onsite.
https://basscoast.ca/pages/harm-reduction-education-series
- Is U.S. cash accepted on site? no
- Will there be food options familiar to Americans? yes
- Be prepared for all weather. Merritt can be very hot during the day and very cold at night.
- See live border wait times here.
- Recommend best crossings: Sumas, Peace Arch, Oroville, etc.
Can I bring my RV? YES
Are there showers? YES
Where do I park? All campsite have car camping
Are there ATMs? YES
Will my U.S. SIM card work? YES
Is there re-entry to the site? YES
Are pets allowed? NO
- email us: info@basscoast.ca
