The 5 Best Overland Routes Near Vancouver, BC

Discover the best forest service and backroad adventures within a few hours of Vancouver.

Whether you’re new to overlanding or planning a long weekend escape, this guide highlights five standout routes that begin within easy reach of Vancouver. Each delivers something different: oceanfront camping, mountain views, remote rec sites, or quiet gravel corridors deep in the backcountry.

All routes featured here are part of the full Untrammelled Travels overland library.

What “Near Vancouver” Means Here

For this guide, “near Vancouver” refers to forest service and overland routes that are:

• Generally within ~2–2.5 hours of Vancouver

• A mix of pavement and gravel

• Suitable for typical overland rigs (AWD or 4×4 with proper tires)

• Offering scenery, camping, or worthwhile terrain

This list focuses on realistic weekend-accessible trips — not long-haul expeditions across northern BC.

🗺️ Top 5 Overland Routes Near Vancouver

1️⃣ Squamish to Indian Arm

Mamquam, Stawamus & Indian River FSRs

Why it stands out: One of the most iconic and accessible overland routes near Vancouver. The drive connects mountain forest roads with oceanfront camping at the head of Indian Arm — classic West Coast terrain in a single outing.

• Best for: Coastal scenery, beginner-friendly exploration, overnight camping

• Vehicle: Stock 4×4 or capable AWD

• Best season: Summer to early fall (snow can linger into late spring)

  
  

2️⃣ Squamish Valley

Squamish Valley FSR

A versatile backroad corridor that offers river access, dispersed camping, and excellent mountain views. It’s one of the most flexible options near Vancouver — great for a half-day explore or linking into longer trips.

• Best for: Scenic gravel cruising and riverfront camps

• Vehicle: AWD or 4×4

• Best season: Year-round (conditions vary with snow and washouts

  
  

3️⃣ Skwellepil Creek Recreation Site

Chehalis Forest Service Road

A local favourite for good reason. This route leads to a peaceful lakeside recreation site with plenty of room to unwind. The terrain is approachable but still feels remote enough to earn the adventure.

• Best for: Easy overlanding with lakeside camping

• Vehicle: 4×4 recommended

• Best season: Spring through fall

  
  

4️⃣ Mount Thynne

Thynne Mountain Forest Service Road

For those wanting something slightly more adventurous, Mount Thynne adds elevation and alpine feel to the mix. Expect steeper sections, rougher terrain, and rewarding views.

• Best for: Drivers seeking a moderate challenge and mountain vistas

• Vehicle: 4×4 with clearance recommended

• Best season: Summer to early fall

  
  

5️⃣ Jones Lake

Jones Lake Forest Service Road

A well-known backcountry lake route that rewards effort with expansive water views and excellent camping opportunities. Road conditions can vary — adding a bit of unpredictability to the experience.

• Best for: More adventurous gravel driving and scenic lakeside camps

• Vehicle: 4×4 preferred

• Best season: Late spring through fall

  
  

📍 All Vancouver-Area Route Guides on Untrammelled Travels

Explore the full detailed write-ups, GPS information, and route notes for:

• Squamish to Indian Arm

• Skwellepil Creek Rec Site

• Squamish Valley

• Mount Thynne

• Jones Lake

Each guide includes terrain notes, seasonal considerations, and what to expect along the way.