Cassiar Highway (Highway 37)
Last frontier highway through untamed wilderness
The Cassiar cuts through some of the most isolated territory in North America, running 725 kilometers from the Yellowhead Highway junction north to the Alaska Highway near Watson Lake. Built in the 1960s to serve mining operations, this mostly gravel road passes abandoned mining towns, active jade mines, and endless stretches where you won’t see another soul for hours. The section through the Cassiar Mountains between Meziadin Junction and Good Hope Lake tests both driver and machine with steep grades, switchbacks, and weather that can turn nasty without warning.
It’s a moderate to difficult route demanding high-clearance vehicles, multiple spare tires, and serious preparation. Summer brings construction dust and occasional washouts, while shoulder seasons can mean ice and snow at higher elevations. Fuel up at every opportunity—stations are 200+ kilometers apart. What you get is pure wilderness solitude, mountain vistas that’ll make you pull over just to stare, and the satisfaction of running one of Canada’s last true frontier highways.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 450 mi / 725 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD recommended |
| Nearest town | Kitwanga, British Columbia |
| Land manager | BC Ministry of Transportation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock truck or SUV handle the Cassiar Highway, or do I need a built rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD or AWD vehicle can handle it under normal summer conditions. The gravel surface throws up sharp rocks, so all-terrain tires and at minimum one full-size spare (two is smarter) are essential — blowouts are common and the nearest tire shop can be 200+ miles away.
When does the Cassiar Highway open and close for the season?
It's technically open year-round, but June through September is the reliable window. Snow can hit as early as September at elevation, and spring breakup (April–May) turns sections into soft, washboarded mud that can swallow unprepared rigs.
Do I need a permit or pay any fees to drive the Cassiar Highway?
No permit required and no road fee — it's a public provincial highway maintained by BC Ministry of Transportation. If you're continuing into Yukon or Alaska, have your passport and know your customs crossing hours, as some border posts have limited operating times.
What's the hardest or sketchiest section of the route?
The stretch north of Dease Lake toward the Yukon border sees the least maintenance and can have serious washboard, loose gravel, and unexpected frost heaves. Slow down, aired-down tires (25–30 psi) make a real difference, and don't count on guardrails on the drop-offs.
How far apart are fuel stops along the Cassiar, and should I carry extra gas?
Fuel stops exist at Meziadin Junction, Bell II, Iskut, Dease Lake, and a few other small communities, but gaps can exceed 150 miles — and hours of operation are unpredictable. Carry at least a 10-gallon auxiliary fuel supply and treat every stop as a fill-up opportunity regardless of your gauge.
Trail track
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