Dune buggy fun at Carcross Desert in Yukon Territories, Canada
Canada off road adventures can mean many things. Off roading can be referring to 4x4ing, dirt biking and/or ATVing.
The peak seasons for off roading in the backcountry of Canada is from late spring to early fall when the gravel roads and trails are driest.
In many parts of Canada forestry and mining are the economic engines for the region. To access the forestry and mining sites the companies have built a massive network of gravel roads. Many of the roads become de-activated in time and therefore become popular for off roading, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and mountain biking.
The network of roads over the years are expanded with spur roads which lead to remote lakes, alpine meadows and river valleys.
Other popular off roading routes include snowmobile and ATV trails. They are narrow trails best used by ATVs and dirt bikes only… in many cases the routes are too narrow for 4×4 vehicles.
ATVing in Gold Bridge near Lillooet, BC, Canada
There are also mass swaths of desert country in Canada which permit dune buggies. No matter where you venture please show respect for others on the roads and trails. And… always stay on the trails and roads as the surrounding eco system is sensitive and special to many of us in Canada.
For the self guided off road enthusiast there are maps available in many of the communities. There are often off road clubs in the region, as well, who are very familiar with the roads and often schedule group adventures open to newcomers.
For all those who venture into the remote regions of the country please prepare well. All riders who embark on a self guided trip into the wilderness should have a good map, gps, rain gear and lots of common sense.
Dirt biking near Powell River, BC on the Sunshine Coast
In selected areas of the country there are guided tour companies providing off roading adventures. Tour companies provide experienced and knowledgeable guides, reliable equipment, riding lessons and (in some cases) meals and accommodations.
For long haul, overnight adventures some tour companies provide backcountry lodges or wilderness campsites.
Canada Off Roading Tips
– always wear a helmet- bring sunglasses and sun screen.
– pack bug repellant.
– never off road on your own as it can be dangerous.
– look ahead while riding not down so you can avoid rocks and obstacles.
– keep a loose grip on the steering wheel and keep your thumbs out of the center section of the wheel therefore avoiding broken thumbs.
– off road tour companies provide equipment, guides and lessons.
– pack rain gear.
– dress in layers as weather changes quickly out on the roads.
– wear bright colors so you are easily identifiable.
– do not litter on the roads and trails.
– off road trails are sometimes shared with hikers and horseback riders.
– make a note of your minimum ground clearance.
– slow down!
– watch for wildlife on the trails and roads.
For contacts, information and photos about offroading in BC, Alberta, Yukon and NWT please visit us online at : https://www.ehcanadatravel.com/canada-offroad.html