British Columbia’s Vancouver Coast Mountains aren’t just scenic – they’re a playground for off-road adventurers. With minimal paved routes and endless forest service roads, this region offers some of Canada’s most rugged and rewarding terrain for overlanders, ATVers, and dual sport riders.
Whether you're planning a multi-day expedition or a quick weekend escape, this guide highlights top trails, hidden gems, and essential tips to help you explore the backcountry with confidence.
Trail Highlights Overview:
|
Trail Name |
Distance |
Vehicle Type |
Difficulty |
Highlights |
|
Hurley River Road |
50 km |
4x4 |
Moderate |
Railroad Pass, alpine views |
|
Highline Trail |
18 km |
4x4 |
Difficult |
Steep switchbacks, alpine meadows, panoramic views |
|
Boulder Mountain Loop |
12 km |
ATV |
Moderate |
Forest trails, rocky terrain, summit lookout |
|
Invermere Ridge |
8 km |
Hiking |
Easy |
Lake views, wildflowers, gentle elevation |
|
Gray Creek Pass |
90 km |
4x4 |
Difficult |
Remote wilderness, historic mining sites, mountain vistas |
|
Bear Creek Trail |
6 km |
Hiking |
Moderate |
Waterfall, shaded forest, creek crossings |
|
Whipsaw Trail |
45 km |
4x4 |
Difficult |
Technical sections, mud pits, scenic ridgelines |
Featured Routes & Destinations
BC Nickel Mine Area:
Located 13 km north of Hope off Highway 1, this area offers over 100 km of trails maintained by the Fraser Valley Dirt Riders. Terrain ranges from family-friendly forest roads to advanced off-road challenges. Camping is available at the staging area.
Coquihalla Trail
An 88 km loop accessible from Tulameen (east) or Britton Creek Rest Area (west). Connects to Coalmont-Tulameen and Lodestone Trails. Expect frequent washouts and rugged conditions – ideal for ATVs and experienced riders.
Cornwall Hills Fire Tower Trail
A 54 km one-way ride with 1,500 m elevation gain. Start at Oregon-Jack Creek FSR near Red Hill Rest Area, climb to the lookout, then loop back via Cornwall Creek FSR. Optional longer route via Hat Creek Road.
Goat Lake Main – Powell River
A scenic 66 km out-and-back drive past Nanton, Ireland, and Dodd Lakes. Camp at Goat Lake or hike to Emma Lake cabin. Loop options include Duck Lake FSR, Haslam Lake FSR, and Theodosia Inlet (85 km).
Harrison Lake East & West
The east route is now out-and-back due to a washout near Big Silver Creek. The west route spans 215 km from Harrison Mills to Highway 99 near Pemberton. Highlights include Clear Creek hot springs, Sloquet and Tsek Hot Springs, and remote campsites.
Highline Road
A narrow 27 km summer-only 4WD route from D’Arcy to Seton Portage. Travels high above Anderson Lake with sharp turns and limited visibility. Drive cautiously and enjoy the views.
Hurley River Road
A 50 km summer-only route from Pemberton Meadows to Gold Bridge. Rough terrain, no guardrails, and tight passes make this a thrilling ride. Keep your eyes on the road – let passengers enjoy the scenery.
Laluwissen Creek / Murray Creek FSR
Connects Highway 12 to Highway 1 via 51 km of forest service roads. A small recreation site near Murray Creek offers a great overnight stop. Remote and scenic.
Mission Mountain Road
Though not technically off-road, this 17 km stretch features a 14% grade over 8 km and drops 920 m in elevation. Views from Mission Pass are stunning. If the train between Seton Portage and Lillooet is running – take it!
Onion Lake / Monkey Wrench Riding Area
Located 20 km north of Lytton, this area offers 400 km of steep, rocky trails – primarily for dirt bikes. Three staging areas and panoramic views make it a must-ride for thrill-seekers.
Squamish River Forest Service Road
Accessible from Highway 99, most 2WD vehicles can reach 40 km in. Beyond that, 4WD is recommended. Highlights include Maude Frickett Falls, Peaches & Cream Falls, and the Hideaway Recreation Site. Hike the High Falls Creek Trail (11 km return).
Vedder Mountain Trails
With 240 km of trails and 70 named routes, this area is ideal for motorized users, hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Access via Parmenter/Vedder Mountain FSR near Cultus Lake.
Whipsaw Overland Route
A legendary 105 km loop from Highway 3 to Coalmont. Alpine peaks, lakes, water crossings, and technical terrain await. Camp at Wells Lake or Lodestone Lake. Expect 2–3 days to complete the whole loop.
Tips for Off-Roading in the Vancouver Coast Mountains
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Final Thoughts
This is just the tip of the trailhead. Whether you're crawling over boulders or cruising forest service roads, the Vancouver Coast Mountains offer endless possibilities for adventure. The scenery is spectacular, the routes are wild, and the best destinations are often the ones you discover by accident.
So gear up, download your maps, and hit the backroads. And when you do – share your journey with us using #BRMBLIFE on social media or at brmbmaps.com.
The mountains are calling. Will you answer?
