Sumallo River Forest Service Road
Dewdney Trail through Cascade wilderness
The Sumallo River FSR runs parallel to the Coquihalla Highway but feels worlds apart, winding 28 kilometers through second-growth forest and riverside meadows. This well-maintained gravel road follows the historic Dewdney Trail route, crossing the Sumallo River multiple times on solid bridges while offering glimpses of the Cascade Range peaks that tower overhead. The road terminates at a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Sumallo Grove, where ancient Douglas firs survived the logging era.
Most stock vehicles can handle this moderate route during the dry season, though high clearance helps with the rougher sections near river crossings. Spring runoff can wash out sections, so stick to July through October for the best conditions. No permits needed, but bring your own water and be prepared for limited cell service once you leave the highway corridor. Multiple camping spots along the river make this perfect for a weekend basecamp to explore the surrounding peaks.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 17.4 mi / 28 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3100 ft |
| Best season | July-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Hope, BC |
| Land manager | BC Ministry of Forests |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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