Trans-Canada Highway opens
Hitch-hiking on the Trans-Canada. Canadian Museum of History Photo Archives, S72-1148
1962
On September 3, 1962, the long-envisioned Trans-Canada Highway was officially opened at Rogers Pass, British Columbia, by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker. The Trans-Canada became the longest national highway in the world, stretching from St. John’s, Newfoundland, to Victoria, British Columbia, with ferries connecting islands to the mainland. However, since much of the highway was yet to be paved, it would not be completed until 1970, at a total cost of over $1 billion.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.