Trail Overview

This rugged route will bring you through all that the British Columbia Backcountry can offer in one trail! You'll climb rocks, power through mud, climb steep hills, and the list goes on. You can run this loop in either direction. Tons of camping spots and side trails to explore, if some obstacles are not your jam? No problem! Lots of by passes and ways around the tough ones. 4WD and good tires are a must on this trail. I recommend a communication device such as a VHF radio, Zoleo, Starlink, etc, as it's a pretty remote route and can be hard to get out of if you don't have a way to contact for help. This route can be done in a single day, but 2-3 days is recommended.

Difficulty

This trail features rock gardens, steep climbs, and some rock ledges a few feet tall; they do have by-passes.

History

The Whipsaw Trail in British Columbia, originally established in 1849, served as a vital link between Fort Hope and Fort Kamloops for the Hudson's Bay Company. In the 1970s, it was repurposed as a recreational off-road trail, gaining popularity among four-wheel drive enthusiasts.

Technical Rating

Freckles CM

Jun 20, 2026

Open

Lots of fallen trees, bring a chainsaw. Lots of bog holes thankfully most are not too deep. Overall tight passage due to fallen trees and spring erosion making most trails difficult. Lockers are a must/recommended, and on a side note tons of mosquitos are out. Especially their babies in the bog holes. The mosquitos will follow your vehicle around

Clayton Facette

Jun 19, 2026

Open

Traveled June 18-19th with a Gladiator on 37s. Trail is open with some small sections of snow that will likely be gone in a couple days

Rod Atkinson

Sep 18, 2025

Open

Not closed due to fire. Fire had minimal impact on trail