Top 15 Mountain Passes in British Columbia

Most hikers reach this point via the steep trail up from Lake O'Hara. From here you can head up to the summit of East Wiwaxy Peak or follow the ridgeline down to Lake Oesa. You'll be treated to phenomenal views no matter where you choose to head next!

The Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area spans 5,750 hectares across the Coquihalla Pass, and is a breathtaking transition zone between the coastal and interior mountains of British Columbia. Established to conserve the unique dry-belt alpine landscape, it offers convenient access to popular high-country trails, including Zoa, Needle, and Flatiron. With its granite ridges, subalpine forests, and remnants of the historic Kettle Valley Railway, this area is a beautiful destination for hikers, snowshoers, and travelers along Highway 5.

Kings Peak towers at 2,065 meters in the central ranges of Vancouver Island, with a distinctive double summit and steep, rugged slopes. The eastern summit is the highest point, while Queen’s Ridge stretches west, revealing exposed stone and picturesque ridgelines. From this vantage point, you can take in breathtaking views of Buttle Lake, the Elk River Valley, and Golden Hinde in the distance.

The Green River flows beneath the rocky cliff before joining the Lillooet River further north. The northern peaks of the Garibaldi Ranges are still covered in snow at the end of May. (Visit May 27, 2025)

Portal Lake is located at Yellowhead Pass along Highway 16 in the Canadian Rockies. At 1,131 meters, Yellowhead Pass is one of the lowest passes in the northern Rockies, marking the border between Alberta and British Columbia. It runs through Jasper National Park and Mount Robson Park. Declared a National Historic Site in 1971, the pass has historically served as a key transport route for First Nations, the Hudson’s Bay Company, and early railways. (Visit June 2, 2018) https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/ab/yellowhead

The Chilkoot Pass is a 1,067 meter high mountain pass in the Boundary Ranges of the Coast Mountains, which forms the border between Alaska and Canadian British Columbia. It became famous during the gold rush of 1897/98, when thousands of gold seekers crossed the pass to reach the Klondike gold fields. Today, there is a warden cabin close to the border between Canada and the US as well as an outhouse.

Gray Creek Pass is part of the Great Trail and also part of the BC Trail & BC Epic 1000. It is tough and rugged, following a forest service road. This price of admission (effort) for this ride is high, but so is the reward. * Heading East: Average of 11.1% grade for 12+km from the start of this highlight, to the Pass. In the last 4km or so, you will find grades in the high teens and low 20's. * Heading West: Average of 3.1% grade for 30+km from the start of this highlight, to the Pass. Note: Although lower grade, the road can be very rugged and technically difficult, especially with a loaded bike. The last 3km or so, you will find grades in the low to mid teens. Complete this ride fully equipped. There are no supplies, limited water and expect no cell service. Bring a GPS tracker in case of emergency. The route follows active FSR's with limited visibility, USE CAUTION along the way. Watch for all vehicles, especially heavily laden logging trucks, give them much extra room to pass. The Gray Creek Pass road is normally closed to vehicles through the winter, opening as late as mid July. Late snow and the occasional washout can delay the annual opening. Cyclists can often pass through these obstacles but do so at their own risk. Visit the Gray Creek Store’s website for the latest road conditions: https://graycreekstore.com/general-store/news

Also known as the Salmo-Creston, Kootenay Pass stands high in the Selkirk Mountains at 5,846 ft. Bridal Lake stands right by the pass. A picnic area makes it the perfect spot for a break after the long climb.