Trail Overview
This scenic 9.9-mile point-to-point trail is an excellent option for offroaders of all skill levels seeking spectacular mountain views and pristine lakeside camping at the Bonanza Lake Recreation Site. Mostly consisting of a single-lane unpaved Forest Service Road, the route climbs from an elevation of 262 feet up to 1,065 feet, with a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 969 feet. The trail is tight in several sections, requiring drivers to stay alert for oncoming traffic and potential logging operations. As the trail climbs the hillside, the dense coastal forest opens up to reveal sweeping views of the rugged mountain peaks behind you before descending toward the lake.
With a technical rating of 3, this route is accessible for high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, stock SUVs, and SxSs, though drivers should exercise caution on the steeper climbs where loose rock and minor washouts are common. As you approach the recreation site, the road widens significantly and becomes much easier to navigate. The Bonanza Lake Recreation Site offers plenty of space for camping, including the unique opportunity to drive down onto the sandy beach and camp directly along the shoreline, making it a perfect spot for fishing, paddling, and relaxing.
Access Description
The route utilizes active Forest Service Roads where heavy industrial and logging traffic has the right of way. Drivers should use caution and yield to industrial vehicles. Bonanza Lake Recreation Site is a free, rustic, first-come, first-served camping area managed by Recreation Sites and Trails BC, featuring basic amenities such as pit toilets and picnic tables. There is no trash service, so visitors must pack out all garbage.
