Shovelnose Mountain - South Shovelnose FSR

Summary of Route

Type: Out and back; views

Rating: 3/5

Season: Summer

Length: 9.9 km one-way

Vehicle suitability: Stock 4x4

The Route

The Shovelnose Mountain - South Shovelnose FSR is an easy day-trip that is suitable for any 4x4, and likely some AWD vehicles. This is an excellent route for those looking for a basic 4x4 route with views and nearby camping - found along the Coldwater river between exit 256 and the start of South Shovelnose FSR. In peak summer months, these camping areas are generally busy.

Access to the Shovelnose Mountain overland route occurs off the Coquihalla, just south of Merritt, British Columbia, specifically take exit 256 onto Coldwater Road, travelling south-east.

Once on Coldwater road, continue travelling east for approximately 8.5 km, until you see the below turn-off for South Shovelnose FSR. It is well marked.

South Shovelnose FSR begins as an extremely well maintained FSR and decent time can be made. For the most part, stay on the most obvious path to reach Shovelnose Mountain.

That said, intersections at the 5.8, 7.7 and 8.0 km marks can cause confusion and we have included photos of these intersections below.

Turn left at the 5.8 km intersection:

Turn right at the 7.7 km intersection:

Turn left at the 8.0 km intersection (intersection not shown on Gaia as of fall 2025):

Shortly after the 8 km mark, road conditions begin to deteriorate and the well-groomed wide FSR becomes a narrow shelf-road with relatively loose gravel. As long as you do not encounter another vehicle on this section, any stock 4x4 should be fine. While views begin to open up, keep your eyes on the road as there is plenty of room to park at the summit without the risk.

If you’re looking for nearby overland routes, consider Mount Thynne or Murphy Lakes and Grasshopper Ridge.