Navigating BC’s Forest Service Roads Safely and Responsibly
If you plan to explore BC’s backcountry, chances are you’ll need to use the province’s 620,000 kms of forest service roads (FSRs), also known as resource roads. Crisscrossing the province’s wilderness, these roads were created to provide access to remote areas for industrial activity such as forestry, mining, oil and gas development, and fire access. They also provide public access to trails, campsites, and other recreational activities.
Exploring nature through outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of BC’s outdoor culture. These roads allow access to trails, campsites, off-roading areas, fishing sites, lakes, rivers, mountains, and pure wilderness. While some roads are gated, deactivated, abandoned, or overgrown, many more remain open to the public. Using forest service roads means sharing it with industrial traffic. So how can you safely navigate them on the way to your next adventure?
Navigation Tools and Resources
Backroad Mapbooks are considered essential for anyone heading into the backcountry in BC. These books cover BC’s backroads by region and are used by a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts to navigate through the province’s tangle of forest service roads. They also include detailed information on fishing, camping, paddling, trails, and points of interest. The books are available in most BC outdoors stores and bookstores, and they also have an app and digital maps available.
Top Notch Navigator is a BC company that makes digital maps for outdoor recreation and backcountry exploration. These maps are compatible with popular navigation apps like Gaia, Locus, OsmAnd, and others.
Navigational Apps: While we at The Rainlander we prefer our paper maps, many users rely on apps like Gaia and Avenza useful for digital navigation. Off-roaders also use Locus Maps, OnX, and OsmAnd. Backroads Mapbooks and Top Notch Navigator can be used on many of these apps.
FSR Road Conditions and Closures
When using resource roads in BC, always obey all signage and closures. In active logging areas, for example, public access may be prohibited for safety reasons, and it is in your best interest to respect these closures. Hazards are common and can include:
- Wildlife
- Dust
- Potholes
- Mud
- Downed trees
- Rocks
- Rockslides
- Steep banks
- Ditches
- Wildfires
After 2021’s catastrophic atmospheric river event, a number of forest service roads were damaged and have not yet been repaired. Removal of trees through logging or wildfires can also cause landslides and washouts which can happen at any time. Wildfires in the summer season can close access to backcountry areas.
Useful Links for Road and Safety Info:
BC Government Resource Road Safety Information (select area from the side panel to see notices for specific regions and interactive maps)
Mosaic Forestry Management Access (covers east half of Van Isle from Campbell River to Victoria)
WFP Road Info (covers Bamfield, North Island, Powell River, Gold River, Tahsis, Zeballos)
Vehicle Readiness & Safety Tips
While some FSRs are suitable for all vehicles, many others require high clearance 4×4 vehicles. As a general rule, most vehicles can safely navigate main roads, while secondary roads can be in rougher condition and may not be navigable for your average vehicle.
Cell service in the backcountry can be limited or nonexistent. Always leave a trip plan with someone to let them know where you are going and when they can expect your return. Flat tires are common, so make sure that your spare tire is properly inflated before you go.
It’s also a good idea to carry:
- Portable air compressor
- Tire repair kit
- Tool kit
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Extra clothing
- Fire making kit
- Water and food
- Satellite communication device.
Industrial traffic uses VHF radio to communicate. While most recreational users won’t have radio capabilities, if you’re going to be spending a lot of time on FSRs, consider investing in radio for your vehicle. Learn how to use road-specific radio channels before heading out. Rules for radio use are typically posted at road entrances.
Resources:
Four Wheel Drive Association of BC’s Communications page
BC Forest Safety Council’s Radio Use and Road Calling Procedures
Road Etiquette and Safety
Working roads were created first and foremost for industrial purposes, so you should expect to see industrial vehicles and activities on them. Down (loaded) traffic has the right of way. Up (unloaded) traffic should use pull outs to allow down traffic to pass. Remember that large trucks can’t stop quickly. Drive with caution and be mindful of speed to reduce dust and prevent collisions.
You should:
- Drive with headlights on
- Drive for the road conditions
- Use pullouts
- Stay on your side of the road
- Stay vigilant
- Never pass an industrial vehicle
Watch This: BC Forest Safety Council’s Resource Road Orientation Video
Leave No Trace
An ongoing problem with public use of the backcountry is destructive and disrespectful behaviour, including:
- Illegal dumping
- Vandalism
- Illegal shooting
- Overcrowding
- Wildlife disturbance
- Habitat damage and contamination
- Poor campfire control and wildfire ignition
- Poaching
- Abandoned vehicles
- Burning materials that should not be burned
- Leaving garbage behind
Misuse of wilderness areas can lead to future access restrictions. You can help keep the backcountry clean and undamaged by following Leave No Trace principles, modelling responsible behaviour, cleaning up garbage, and following all fire restrictions.
Many off-roading clubs like the Four Wheel Drive Association host regular cleanup events. Consider becoming a member or volunteering to help support stewardship of BC’s backcountry areas.
Cory is an outdoor writer and adventurer from British Columbia. She has worked as a kayak guide and wildlife rehabber, experiences that deepened her love for wild places and the creatures that call them home. Whether she’s hiking remote trails, paddling along the coast, or setting out on her next backcountry trip, she finds inspiration in nature’s untamed beauty. Through her writing, she shares stories of adventure, resilience, and the deep connection between people and the wilderness.
