Cayuse Flats — Stein Valley Trailhead and Day Use Area

Cayuse Flats is the lower trailhead access point for Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Park, reached via the Lytton ferry crossing on the Fraser River. This is one of BC’s last undeveloped watersheds — no logging roads punched into the upper valley, and the canyon entry feels like stepping back about 50 years. The day use and trailhead area has basic facilities and is well-documented as the start of the multi-day Stein traverse. It connects directly to the overlanding corridor running north from Lillooet and the Cayoosh Creek FSR system.

Getting here requires the Lytton cable ferry (free, but hours are limited — check BC Ferries or local ops before you go). Road from Lytton to the trailhead is manageable in high-clearance 2WD but can be rough after spring runoff. No vehicle camping at the trailhead itself — Cottonwood Creek Campground in the valley is the designated overnight spot. Respect the cultural significance of this valley to the Nlaka’pamux Nation.

Gateway into BC's last wild undeveloped watershed.