Switchback Hill

Total Miles 2.9
Technical Rating
4 Moderate
Best Time Summer, Fall, Spring
Trail Type High-Clearance 4x4 Trail
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

On this trail, you can expect to get many scratches as well as the possibility for small dents from all the trees and shrubbery that grow on the sides and over top of the trail. This is a shorter distance trail that takes longer than expected due to the fact you climb over 2,000 feet up the mountain in less than 5 kilometers. That means two things: first, your vehicle's cooling system will be tested, and second, there will be an incredible view once you reach the top! There are three main obstacles on this trail, the first being the gatekeeper at the very start of the trail. If you struggle here, do not continue on. The second is a deeper cross-ditch that requires a vehicle with good approach and departure angles. The third and final obstacle is a narrow pass where the road has collapsed off on one side and the other side is a rock face. Anything that is wider than 75 inches may not make it through. On your way up the mountain, take mental notes where you can turn around because if you don't get to the top, your only option is to back down the trail. Once you reach the top, there is a picnic table to enjoy the beautiful view from Mount Washington to Mount Benson and everything in between. This trail was built by the Comox Valley ATV Club. There is also a quad that rolled off the cliff that you are able to spot if you have a good eye!

Photos of Switchback Hill

Difficulty

This is a very narrow path with nearly zero spots to pass. Trees and shrubs have grown over the trail the whole way. It's steep from start to end.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

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Taylor B
Aug 08, 2025
Open
The view at the top is awesome but the wheeling gods demand their pound of flesh which in this case is your paint. The debris and pinstriping gets pretty extreme on the last quarter of the trail. I broke a ditch light and a fender flare off. Beyond that there is nothing here an average driver in a stock 4x4 can't handle.
Dave Hutchison
Mar 07, 2024
Open
A lot of snow unfortunately couldn’t reach the top due to timeline . Be Back Soon !
Trav F
Jan 06, 2024
Open
bushy and deep snow near the top..got about 90% to the top with not too much effort..have to come back in the spring.. fun tight trail in the Taco !

Switchback Hill Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance

Switchback Hill Map

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