Morice Lake Road
Old pack train route through active logging country
This 65-kilometer forestry road follows the original Cataline pack train route from Houston to Morice Lake, cutting straight through some of the most remote country in central BC. The road parallels the Morice River for most of its length, passing active logging operations and several defunct mining claims from the 1920s copper boom. Watch for loaded logging trucks on weekdays — they own the road and won’t slow down for anyone. The final 15 kilometers to Morice Lake climb steeply through old-growth cedar and hemlock, with several tight switchbacks that’ll test your trailer-backing skills.
Easy to moderate difficulty depending on recent logging activity and weather. Any high-clearance vehicle can handle the main route, but 4WD becomes essential if you’re heading to the remote camping spots along the upper Morice River. Avoid weekdays when logging trucks are active. Best from June through October, though the road stays passable most winters. No permits, plenty of dispersed camping around Morice Lake and along the river. Fuel up in Houston — it’s a long walk out if you run dry.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 40 mi / 65 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3400 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance vehicle |
| Nearest town | Houston, BC |
| Land manager | British Columbia Ministry of Forests |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run Morice Lake Road without modifications?
Yes. The trail is graded gravel and rated easy — a stock high-clearance truck or SUV handles it fine. Lift and skid plates aren't required, but a full-size spare is non-negotiable on 40 miles of remote logging road.
When does Morice Lake Road typically open and close each year?
June through October is the reliable window. Snow can close the upper sections well into May, and early-season mud from snowmelt can make sections slick even for high-clearance rigs. Check with the BC Ministry of Forests Houston office before heading out in shoulder seasons.
Do I need a permit or are there any fees to drive Morice Lake Road?
No permit or fee is required to drive the route. It's managed by BC Ministry of Forests and open to public travel, but active logging operations have priority — follow all pilot car instructions and posted restrictions without argument.
What's the hardest part of the drive and what should I actually expect?
The trail itself isn't technically demanding, but active logging trucks are the real hazard — they move fast, kick up serious rock, and own the road. Stay alert on blind corners, pull well off when you see a truck coming, and protect your windshield.
How far is the nearest gas station and is there any cell service on the route?
Fill up in Houston, BC before you leave — there's no gas along the 40-mile route and cell service is completely dead end-to-end. Carry extra fuel if you're planning side trips to Morice Lake, and a satellite communicator is worth having this far out.
Trail track
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