Sinclair Plateau

5.00 km
555m gain
3.50 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
5.00
Distance
kilometres
555
Elevation Gain
metres
3.50
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

The Sinclair Plateau is a rugged wilderness area west of Smithers, known for its sprawling heather-covered high country. Unlike the groomed trails closer to town, this is a true backcountry experience — the trail often disappears into open alpine meadows, and the plateau has earned a reputation for being famously confusing to navigate. This is a route for experienced backcountry travelers comfortable with route-finding, not a casual day-hike destination.

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 journey to Sinclair Plateau is long and requires navigating a network of Forest Service Roads (FSRs). High-clearance is recommended, and a 4x4 may be needed depending on conditions.

  1. From Smithers: Head west on Highway 16 and turn onto the Telkwa River FSR (also known as Road 1000).
  2. The FSR Drive: Reset your odometer at the turnoff. Follow the Telkwa River FSR for approximately 28 km (roughly the 1028 km marker, depending on the FSR numbering/signage system in use).
  3. The Spur Road: Turn right off the main FSR onto a narrower uphill road — look for an avalanche warning sign marking the junction. Continue for approximately 1.8 km, then turn right again onto an even narrower, alder-lined road.


Parking

It is recommended to park about 100m before the deactivation ditch at the end of the road, as space for turning around is extremely tight.

Safety & Preparation

Sinclair Plateau is a high-risk area for getting lost. * The Navigation Trap: The plateau is composed of many similar-looking drainages. When the mist or "mountain weather" rolls in, everything looks identical. Do not attempt this trail without a GPS (Avenza/Gaia) and a solid understanding of your route. Leave markers or take mental photos of the descent point before you wander across the plateau.


  • The Bog: In early summer, the meadows are saturated. Expect very wet feet; waterproof boots and gaiters are mandatory.


  • Wildlife: This is prime grizzly bear country. You will likely see "diggings" where bears have been looking for roots. Carry bear spray and stay alert.


  • Winter Use: This is a popular motorized area (snowmobiling) in winter, but summer use is strictly non-motorized.


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