Chilcotin Plateau Farwell Canyon Road
Deep plateau isolation to Chilcotin River canyon
The Farwell Canyon Road drops you into one of British Columbia’s most isolated corners, where the Chilcotin River has carved a spectacular gorge through volcanic plateau country. Starting from Highway 20 near Riske Creek, this backroad winds 60 kilometers through rolling grassland and pine forest before delivering you to the canyon rim where First Nations fishing platforms still dot the rushing river below. The final descent to the old Farwell trading post site requires careful navigation of loose rock switchbacks.
This is moderate difficulty territory requiring high-clearance 4WD for the canyon descent, though most of the route runs on decent gravel. Summer through early fall offers the best conditions before winter snows close higher elevations. No services exist for 150+ kilometers, so carry extra fuel and water. What you get is pure solitude in some of Canada’s last wild country, with excellent dispersed camping along the plateau and a glimpse into the region’s fur trade history.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 37 mi / 60 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Williams Lake, BC |
| Land manager | BC Crown Land |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle Farwell Canyon Road, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD handles this route fine in dry conditions — the gravel surface is the main challenge, not technical rock. Aired-down tires help on the washboard sections, but a lift isn't required.
When does the road typically open after winter, and is it passable in early spring?
June is the realistic start of reliable access — spring melt turns the plateau sections into soft, rutted mud that can swallow even capable rigs. Stick to June through October and you'll avoid the worst of it.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp on Farwell Canyon Road?
No permit required — this runs through BC Crown Land, so dispersed camping is legal and free. Follow Leave No Trace principles and don't camp within established First Nations heritage sites near the canyon.
What's the hardest section of this route and what should I actually expect?
The canyon descent to the Chilcotin River is the sharpest section — steep, loose gravel with limited room to pass oncoming vehicles. It's not technical by 4WD standards, but it demands attention and you don't want to be rushing it in a wide rig.
There's zero cell service out here — how far is the nearest fuel stop and where should I tank up?
Williams Lake is your last reliable fuel before you head out — don't count on anything along the route itself. Top off there, carry extra if your rig drinks more than average, and plan your 60km loop accordingly.
Trail track
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