Wells Gray Park Murtle River Road
Gateway to Canada's largest roadless lake
The Murtle River Road penetrates deep into Wells Gray Provincial Park, ending at Murtle Lake—the largest lake in North America accessible only by foot or paddle. The final 15 kilometers beyond the main park road become increasingly technical as you navigate washouts, fallen timber, and creek crossings that test ground clearance. Ancient cedars tower overhead while the road deteriorates from gravel to twin-track to something that barely qualifies as passable. Most turn back at the first major washout, but push through and you’ll reach the trailhead for one of Canada’s most pristine wilderness lakes.
High-clearance 4WD essential for the final approach—stock SUVs won’t make it past the halfway point. Late spring through early fall offers the best conditions when winter damage gets cleared and creek levels drop. No permits required but register at the park office in Clearwater. Bring recovery gear and a chainsaw if you have one—deadfall blocks progress regularly. The payoff comes at trail’s end: 24 kilometers of pristine lake surrounded by peaks and accessed only by those willing to work for it. True wilderness in a province that’s rapidly losing the real thing.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 22 mi / 35.4 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2800 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Clearwater, BC |
| Land manager | BC Parks |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | bcparks.ca |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle the Murtle River Road?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD truck or SUV can manage this trail in good conditions. Low-range is useful on steeper sections and after rain, and decent all-terrain tires are strongly advised over stock street rubber.
When does the Murtle River Road typically open and close each year?
The road is generally accessible from late May through October, depending on snowmelt and conditions. Early season can mean soft, muddy sections — late June is a safer bet if you want the trail in reasonable shape.
Do you need a permit to drive into Wells Gray Park on this route?
No vehicle permit is required to drive the Murtle River Road, but you are entering BC Parks jurisdiction and must follow park regulations. Camping fees may apply at designated sites — check directly with BC Parks before you go.
What's the hardest part of this trail and what should I actually expect?
The water crossings are where most rigs get honest — depths vary significantly by season and recent rain, and there's no bridge to bail you out. Approach each crossing carefully, walk it first if visibility is low, and know that spring runoff can make previously mild crossings serious.
There's zero cell service out here — how far is the nearest fuel and what's the gas range situation?
Clearwater, BC is your last reliable fuel stop before heading in, roughly 22 miles from the trailhead. Top off there — there is no fuel along the route, no cell service to call for help, and the round trip is just over 44 miles not counting any exploring you do at the lake end.
Trail track
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