Lyon Creek Trail (Loop via McCabe Trail)

Smithers BC

25.00 km
600m gain
6.50 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
25.00
Distance
kilometres
600
Elevation Gain
metres
6.50
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Ramrock Trail is an 11 km one-way backcountry route within Babine Mountains Provincial Park, offering a rewarding journey through diverse mountain landscapes and remote alpine wilderness. Typically completed in 4 to 5 hours, the trail is rated moderate to challenging, making it well suited for experienced hikers seeking a full-day adventure or a multi-day backcountry trip.


The route begins with a steady climb through dense forest, gradually ascending to the subalpine at approximately 1,475 metres. Along the way, hikers traverse boardwalks over wetland sections, follow remnants of historic mining roads, and cross Lyon Creek before continuing the climb to Ramrock Pass at roughly 1,660 metres. Beyond the pass, the trail descends into the scenic Ganokwa Basin, where expansive alpine meadows, rugged boulder fields, and sweeping mountain vistas showcase the spectacular beauty of the Babine Mountains.


Ramrock Trail is frequently combined with the nearby McCabe Trail to create an approximately 21 km backcountry loop, making it a popular choice for overnight backpacking adventures. Hikers planning the full circuit should come well prepared with camping equipment, navigation tools, and sufficient food and water, as facilities are limited and weather conditions can change rapidly in the alpine.


Located within the protected wilderness of Babine Mountains Provincial Park, the trail provides opportunities to experience pristine forests, alpine ecosystems, and abundant wildlife in one of British Columbia's premier backcountry destinations. Before setting out, visitors are encouraged to check the latest trail conditions, closures, wildlife advisories, and park updates through the official BC Parks website to help ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

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.

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

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Getting There

Directions

The trailhead for Lyon Creek Trail is located 4 km past Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park (which is itself reached via Driftwood Road off Highway 16). Trailhead specifics: accessed via Driftwood Road (from Smithers) into Babine Mountains Park; summer parking lot along Driftwood Road leads to the trailheads

Parking

The summer parking lot is located at the head of Driftwood Road, approximately 7 km north of Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park. In winter, a separate winter parking lot is used further down Driftwood Road. No vehicle access beyond the summer parking gate. Space for multiple vehicles; an information kiosk with a trail map is on-site. No fee for day use.

Safety & Preparation

The Lyon Creek and McCabe Trails form a long alpine loop in Babine Mountains Provincial Park that passes through remote terrain with limited maintenance and no cell service. Expect overgrown sections, steep climbs, and muddy or washed-out boardwalks. Creek crossings may be challenging early in the season, and snow can linger on high passes well into July. Carry a detailed topographic map, GPS, and compass, as signage is minimal and junctions can be confusing. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, bring bear spray, and pack overnight gear even if planning a long day trip. The trail is best traveled between mid-July and late September.

Seasonal Conditions

🌱

Spring

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Muddy and wet throughout; boardwalks may be washed out or submerged. Creek crossings running high from snowmelt.

Notes

Not recommended before late June. Snow can linger on high passes well into July. Access road may still be gated at the winter parking lot, adding several km to the approach.

Highlights

Rushing waterfalls along Driftwood Creek; early wildflowers in the lower forest sections

Accessibility

Winter parking lot gate may still be in effect; expect a longer road walk to the summer trailhead.

☀️

Summer

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally good. Trail includes boardwalks over swampy sections, old mining-road sections, alpine meadows, and boulder fields. Some overgrown sections and muddy patches possible.

Notes

Best window is mid-July to late September. Brilliant alpine flowers fill the meadows at the right season — Ganokwa Basin meadows are spectacular in bloom. Mosquitoes bad in lower sections and the basin; bring repellent and a headnet. Carry a topo map and GPS — signage is minimal at junctions.

Highlights

Alpine wildflowers, Copper Lakes, Ganokwa Lake swimming, summit panoramas of Hudson Bay Mountain and Telkwa Range, mountain goat sightings, historic mining heritage

Accessibility

Summer parking lot open; road passable by most vehicles to the gate at 7 km from Driftwood Canyon.

🍂

Fall

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Cooler temperatures; early snowfall possible on passes from late September. Lower sections dry and pleasant.

Notes

Fewer bugs. Shoulder season — be prepared for rapid weather changes. Overnight gear strongly recommended even for day trips.

Highlights

Fall colours in the lower forest; clear alpine views; berry picking possible; quieter trail with fewer hikers

Accessibility

Snow can linger on high passes — late September visits may encounter early winter conditions above 1,600 m. Check conditions before heading out.

❄️

Winter

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Full winter snowpack; trail ungroomed and untracked. Significant avalanche terrain present on upper slopes.

Notes

⚠️ Babine Mountains Park contains significant avalanche terrain. Winter travel is for experienced backcountry users only. Always check avalanche forecasts at avalanche.ca before heading out.

Highlights

Backcountry ski touring on the Lyon Creek route; snowshoeing in lower forested sections

Accessibility

The winter parking lot is the access point; the Lyon Creek Trail leaves Driftwood Road about 1.5 km beyond it. Snowmobile use is in designated areas only — a trail fee day pass is required for non-members of the Smithers Snowmobile Association.

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