Chilcotin River Road via Farwell Canyon

The Chilcotin River has carved a spectacular canyon through volcanic basalt, creating towering hoodoos and exposed cliffs that rise 400 feet above the rushing water. This route follows the river’s east bank through Farwell Canyon, passing the iconic Junction Sheep Range Hills and the historic Gang Ranch—one of the largest working cattle ranches in North America. The road winds through sagebrush country and ponderosa pine stands, with several creek crossings that can be tricky during spring runoff.

This is moderate 4WD territory requiring high clearance and decent approach angles for the creek crossings. Summer and early fall offer the best conditions, though the road can get dusty and washboarded. No permits needed, but respect private ranch land and gates. Dispersed camping is excellent along the river benches. You’ll experience genuine backcountry solitude in one of BC’s most historically significant landscapes, where cattle drives still happen and the land feels untouched by modern development.