Alexander Mackenzie Heritage Trail

In 1793, Alexander Mackenzie became the first European to cross North America by land, and this trail follows his route from Quesnel to Bella Coola. You’ll drive 420 kilometers of active logging roads, old mining tracks, and some original fur trade paths through the heart of BC’s Central Interior. The route crosses the Fraser Plateau, climbs through the Coast Mountains via Heckman Pass, and drops into the Pacific drainage at Anahim Lake before the final technical descent to Bella Coola.

This is serious backcountry — expect rough gravel, washouts, and active logging traffic that has right-of-way. Stock 4WD with high clearance handles most sections, but the Bella Coola Hill descent requires low range and confidence. Best tackled May through September when snow clears the high country. Carry extra fuel, food for 3-4 days, and camping gear since services are sparse between Quesnel and Bella Coola. You’re retracing one of the most significant journeys in North American exploration history.