Farwell Canyon to Churn Creek Heritage Road

Drop off Highway 20 at Riske Creek and follow the Chilcotin River toward Farwell Canyon — a place that earns its name the moment you spot the hoodoo formations rising from ochre bluffs above the river. The road narrows as it descends into the canyon, crosses the one-lane bridge over the Chilcotin River, then climbs steeply out the south side toward Churn Creek Protected Area. That climb is loose shale and embedded rock — tight switchbacks with zero runoff space. Bighorn sheep routinely share the road at the canyon rim. From there the route rolls through open bunch-grass plateau to Churn Creek, one of BC’s most significant wildlife corridors and home to one of Canada’s last wild horse herds.

High clearance is mandatory; a true 4×4 with a locking diff will thank you on that canyon exit. Stock SUVs have been beached on the shale switchbacks — bring a recovery kit. Fuel up in Williams Lake; there is nothing between Riske Creek and Gang Ranch. Best run May through October, avoiding spring breakup when the clay sections become impassable grease. No permit required. Cell service disappears at the canyon edge and doesn’t return until you’re back near Highway 20. Dispersed camping is available throughout the protected area on Crown land.