Travel guide to the top of Grey Creek Pass in Canada

Grey Creek Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.083m (6,833ft) above sea level located in the Regional District of East Kootenay, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. It's one of the highest roads in Canada.

Grey Creek pass

How long is Grey Creek Pass?

The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called Gray Creek Forest Service Road. The road is 53.6 km (33.3 miles) long, running west-east from Gray Creek to St Marys River Road. 4×4 vehicle recommended.

When was the road to Grey Creek Pass built?

In the 1950s, Cominco built a power line over the pass, and 40 years later, in the 1980s, the first road was built through the pass. It officially opened in July 1990.

Is Gray Creek Pass open?

Set high in the Kootenay range, this road is seasonally closed from mid or late October through late June or early July. Late snow and the occasional washout can delay the annual opening.

Is the road to Grey Creek Pass difficult?

Keep in mind the road conditions can vary, so be prepared to take it slow and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s extremely rough, narrow, and steep with grades up to 16%. Use lower gears. Excessive use of brakes may result in brake failure. This road is comfortably drivable with any vehicle, though the warning signs suggest high clearance. It’s dangerous when wet (slippery mud on steep grades). There are many corners and no emergency services. Travel slowly – this is not a shortcut to the hardtop. The road's poor visibility and heavily laden logging truck traffic can make this route a potentially hazardous journey if users do not remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Excess rain can cause road washouts and unstable banks. Drive carefully and remember, due to the road and its conditions, this is more of a scenic route than a shortcut.