Opal Ridge Back door Trail

Smithers BC

12.06 km
650m gain
6.00 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0
Difficulty
Hard
12.06
Distance (km)
Total Length
650
Elevation (m)
Total Gain
6.00
Time (hrs)
Estimated

About This Trail

The Backdoor route of Opal Ridge offers a less-direct but rewarding ascent into the alpine ridges of the Bulkley Valley region. You begin through the forest and old logging/cut-block roads, eventually breaking above the tree line. Once you gain the alpine section, you’re greeted by expansive views, rocky outcrops, and alpine meadows with wildflowers in summer. The trail becomes exposed near the upper sections, and footings can be tricky, so robust hiking footwear is recommended. Because it’s the “backdoor” access, some sections may be less well-marked than the main ridge trail, so navigation attention is required. One user noted: > “I hiked Opal Ridge Backdoor Trail last Saturday … made it into the alpine at the top but had to come back down before the Ridge due to deep …

Responsible Adventure

This trail supports sustainable tourism and local communities. Please follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment.

Interactive Trail Map

3D terrain available

Elevation Profile

No photos available yet

Trip Planning Information

Getting There

From Smithers, drive up Hudson Bay Mountain Road; at ~12 km it becomes McDonell Lake FSR (gravel). Tourism Smithers. Stay on McDonell Lake FSR following mainline km posts past the Silvern/Duthie junctions (9–12 km area) and past the Main Opal Ridge TH (~11 km). Continue to about 15km. Watch for the “Opal Backdoor TH” point marked on the McDonell map; there’s a small pullout/spur used for parking and the start of the route. (High-clearance recommended.)

Safety & Preparation

Disclaimer: Trail conditions can change quickly — forest roads may be rough, muddy or washed out, and trail markings may be faint or covered by snow/ice outside of main summer season. The alpine ridge section is exposed to weather, so bring layers, navigation, and bear spray. Always check recent trail reports, carry proper footwear, water and food, and let someone know your route and expected return time.