Mission Pass - Mission Mountain and Seaton Highline Road

Summary of Route

Type: Through route; views

Rating: 3/5

Season: Summer

Length: 47.1 km

Vehicle suitability: Stock 4x4 or AWD

The Route

The Mission Pass - Mission Mountain and Seaton Highline Road is an excellent easy overland route connecting Carpenter Lake to the town of D’Arcy and eventually Pemberton. This route can be done in either direction; however, travelling south from Carpenter Lake towards D’Arcy will ensure that you are hugging the wall, as opposed to the cliff, as you travel the Seaton Highline Road. Due to the lack of guardrails and gravel conditions, this route is only recommended in dry conditions. Expect to take several hours for the entirety of this route due to the length, elevation gain on Mission Mountain Road, and narrowness of Seaton Highline Road.

If accessing from the north, Mission Mountain Road can be found at Terzaghi (Mission) Dam on the eastern end of Carpenter Lake. Ample signage is present at this point and once on Mission Mountain Road, simply avoid taking any spur roads as you progress and you will stay on the desired route. After crossing Terzaghi (Mission) Dam, you will briefly pass through a narrow tunnel carved out of the mountain. After passing through this tunnel, the route runs parallel to Carpenter Lake for a brief period of time before beginning the climb up Mission Pass.

Unfortunately, if you’re proceeding south, there are few opportunities for pullouts and views over Carpenter Lake will be difficult for the driver to enjoy. Passengers will be able to enjoy ample views as you climb 500 meters in approximately 4 km.

Once at Mission Pass, those driving older vehicles may wish to give their vehicles a rest, as downshifting is a must for the descent. Travelling south puts one on the cliffside of Mission Mountain Road for the descent to South Shala, views can be enjoyed at various pullout spots.

Once the descent is complete, continue southwest towards Seton Portage. This is the only paved section of this route. Before long, you will reach the entrance point of Seaton Highline Road. While Seaton Highline Road does not have the elevation change of Mission Mountain Road, it is narrow and generally less well maintained. Nonetheless, road conditions are remain easy for most vehicles. Travel slowly, particularly on the plentiful blind corners, and pull off the road to enjoy the many viewpoints along the way.

While there is no particular “crux” on any part of this route, both roads are gravel and may not be particularly well groomed. Accordingly, traction may be an issue in some section,s though 4-hi or AWD will be sufficient at all-times. 2 wheel drive vehicles do complete this route; however, it is not recommended.

If you’re looking for similar easy overland routes, consider our Gillis Lake or Kafir Peak overland routes.