Shambhala Music Festival attendees faced significant challenges exiting the Salmo River Ranch site after the festival wrapped on July 28, 2025. Reports from the community and social channels detail hours-long waits at highway checkpoints and border crossings, with delays stretching up to two hours at times.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) increased their enforcement presence on key routes including Highway 3, deploying drug detection dogs and sobriety tests at traffic stops. Around midday, traffic congestion was severe enough that officers temporarily closed eastbound roads near the festival exits to manage the bottlenecks.
Many festivalgoers reported tense interactions with law enforcement, with repeated questioning and vehicle searches becoming a common occurrence. Organizers had warned attendees in advance that all vehicles would undergo thorough security screenings, and that staying overnight at monitored highway rest stops was discouraged.
Zero-Tolerance Enforcement Campaign in Full Effect
In the days leading up to the event, BC Highway Patrol launched a stringent zero-tolerance enforcement campaign targeting speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving specifically on festival routes. This effort intensified through the festival weekend, with specialized units positioned at high-traffic points including Bombi Pass, Kootenay Pass, and Paulson Summit.
Police dogs skilled in drug detection were actively used to assist in vehicle inspections, increasing scrutiny and contributing to the slow exit process. Despite the frustrations, some festival attendees urged fellow travelers to remain calm and cooperate fully to minimize further delays.
Advice for Future Festival Departures
- Expect longer wait times and factor these into travel plans post-festival.
- Comply promptly and respectfully with police requests at checkpoints.
- Avoid bringing items that could trigger searches or extended questioning.
- Plan route alternatives if possible, but stay informed on closures and law enforcement activity.
- Stay patient and vigilant; safety and security measures are in place for everyone’s protection.
While the exit process tested festivalgoers’ patience, these enhanced security measures underline the commitment to public safety. Attendees leaving Shambhala 2025 were ultimately able to clear the checkpoints and resume their journeys, albeit with some delays.
Source: r/Shambhala