Chilcotin Plateau Loop
High plateau ranching country and ghost towns
The Chilcotin Plateau Loop cuts through some of BC’s most remote high country, linking historic ranching towns with forgotten mining camps across 400 kilometers of forest service roads. Starting from Williams Lake, the route heads west through the Chilcotin Range, crossing the Fraser River at Gang Ranch before looping north through Big Creek and back via Charlotte Lake Road. Key waypoints include the abandoned mining town of Barkerville Gold Rush Trail junction and the notorious Sheep Creek Bridge crossing.
This is solid intermediate territory requiring high-clearance 4WD for creek crossings and rocky sections, though much of it runs on maintained gravel. Summer through early fall offers the best conditions, with snow possible until June at higher elevations. Stock up on fuel in Williams Lake or 100 Mile House — services are scarce once you’re committed. Dispersed camping opportunities are endless, and you’ll earn some of Canada’s finest mountain vistas without the crowds of more famous routes.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 248 mi / 399 km |
| Duration | 3-5 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5200 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Williams Lake, BC |
| Land manager | BC Ministry of Forests |
| 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 this route, or do I need a built rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner is sufficient for this trail. Lift and lockers aren't required, but airing down and decent all-terrain tires will make the dirt and gravel sections noticeably easier.
When does the Chilcotin Plateau Loop become passable and when does it close up for the season?
June through October is the reliable window. Snow can linger on the plateau into late May, and fall storms can make the forest service roads slick and difficult by late October. Check with BC Ministry of Forests or locals in Williams Lake before an early or late-season attempt.
Do I need any permits or pay fees to run this route?
No permit is required to drive the forest service roads on this loop. Dispersed camping on BC Crown land is free. Some private ranch land borders the route — stay on the road and respect gates.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The route is rated moderate and there's no single brutal obstacle, but the combination of remoteness, 248 miles of dirt and gravel, and creek crossings demands attention. Washouts and soft sections after rain are the most likely trouble spots — nothing technical, but a recovery strap and a spare tire are not optional out here.
Is there any place to resupply fuel or water along the route, or do I need to carry everything from Williams Lake?
Fuel options along the plateau are extremely limited and unreliable — top off in Williams Lake before you leave and carry a jerry can for a 400+ km loop. Water crossings exist, but treat or filter any surface water; dispersed camp sites don't have developed water sources.
Trail track
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