Forestry Trunk Road — Hwy 940 Livingstone Range to Plateau Mountain Ecological Reserve (Alberta)
Alberta's sky-high plateau hiding in plain sight.
Plateau Mountain sits at roughly 2,500 metres above sea level and holds the distinction of being one of the most accessible high-altitude subalpine ecosystems in Alberta — and one of the least visited outside of local overlanders who know what’s up here. The access road branches off Highway 940 through the Livingstone Range and climbs through stunted fir and open scree to a plateau that feels like tundra dropped into southern Alberta. The ecological reserve protects ancient krummholz formations and rare alpine plants; you stay in your vehicle or on designated tracks. On a clear day you’re looking at the Highwood Range, the Rockies foothills, and — if you time it right — a horizon stacked with thunderheads rolling in from the west.
The road is steep and loose in sections, with exposed ridgeline driving that demands attention in wind. High-clearance 4WD is mandatory; a locking differential is strongly recommended. Snow can fall any month at this elevation — check conditions before leaving. The Hwy 940 corridor runs through the Pekisko and Livingstone grazing leases, so you’ll share the road with cattle. No services anywhere along this stretch; fuel and water come from Longview or Chain Lakes. This is the kind of drive you do once and reference for the rest of your life.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry, High Clearance, Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 24 mi / 38.6 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8202 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Longview, Alberta |
| Land manager | Alberta Parks / Alberta Environment and Protected Areas |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | albertaparks.ca |
| 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 trail, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner can make it, but you need low-range and real off-road tires — all-seasons on a crossover will get you stuck or worse. The climb off Hwy 940 through the Livingstone Range includes rutted dirt, loose rock, and shelf road sections that will punish anything with low clearance or open differentials.
When does this trail actually open, and is snow a real concern?
July through September is the reliable window — at 8,200 ft, snow can persist into late June and return by early October. Don't gamble on May or June access; the upper plateau holds snow long after the valley looks clear.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp here?
No permit is required to drive the Forestry Trunk Road section, but Plateau Mountain itself is an Ecological Reserve — stay on designated trails and do not camp within the reserve boundary. Dispersed camping is permitted in the surrounding forestry areas under standard Alberta public land rules.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually be ready for?
The climb up through the Livingstone Range is the crux — steep grades, loose shale, and eroded ruts that can catch a rocker panel if you're not picking your line. The trail doesn't let up until you hit the plateau, so if something goes wrong on the ascent, backing down is ugly.
Is there any water available on trail, and how far is the nearest gas?
There are water crossings on route but treat or filter anything you collect — there's no potable water on trail. Stock up on fuel in Longview before you leave; it's the nearest town and you won't find a pump anywhere near this route.
Trail track
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