Opal Ridge

Opal Ridge

Smithers BC

3.40 km
612m gain
0.80 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
3.40
Distance
kilometres
612
Elevation Gain
metres
0.80
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

From downtown Smithers, drive toward the east along Highway 16. Turn onto the forest-service road: the main route uses the McDonell Lake Forest Service Road (McDonell FSR). Continue along McDonell FSR to approximately 11 km — user listings specify “Access to the trailhead is at 11 km on the McDonell FSR.” Park in the pull-out or clearing at that 11 km mark. From there, follow the trail uphill through the forest, into the alpine terrain, to the ridge top (approx. elevation ~1,567 m) with expansive views.

Leave No Trace

Please follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

Trail Highlights

👁️

Opal Ridge Valley View Point

viewpoint

Beautiful view of the Lakes, Valley and Hudson Bay Mountain. The perfect spot to have a delicious lunch and enjoy the view.

Opal Ridge Valley View Point

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

Media (10)

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Video

Getting There

Directions

From downtown Smithers, drive toward the east along Highway 16. Turn onto the forest-service road: the main route uses the McDonell Lake Forest Service Road (McDonell FSR). Continue along McDonell FSR to approximately 11 km — user listings specify “Access to the trailhead is at 11 km on the McDonell FSR.” Park in the pull-out or clearing at that 11 km mark. From there, follow the trail uphill through the forest, into the alpine terrain, to the ridge top (approx. elevation ~1,567 m) with expansive view

Safety & Preparation

The Opal Ridge Trail is a steep alpine route accessed by an active forest service road. Conditions on McDonell Lake FSR can change quickly due to logging traffic, washouts, or seasonal erosion — a high-clearance 4×4 is strongly recommended. The trail itself gains elevation rapidly and includes exposed sections above the treeline. Expect snow patches into early summer and strong winds near the ridge. There are no facilities, signage, or water sources on the route. Cell coverage is limited. Always carry navigation (map, GPS, or downloaded Trailforks route), extra layers, bear spray, and sufficient food and water. Let someone know your plan and expected return time before heading out.