Plan Your Trip

Travel
with Care

GENERAL SAFETY TIPS

Exploring Houston’s rugged landscapes is rewarding, but it takes preparation and respect to do it safely. Here’s how to stay safe while making the most of your time in the wild.

  • Plan Ahead: Share your route, destination, and return time with someone at your campsite or a trusted contact.
  • Pack Smart: Bring a map, food, extra fuel, and emergency supplies—be ready for an unplanned overnight.
  • Stay Alert: Weather can shift fast, trails may be steep or rocky, and wildlife may cross your path.
  • Travel Together: Stick with a buddy or small group whenever possible
  • Be Wildfire Aware: Houston is surrounded by beautiful forested areas perfect for hiking and other backcountry adventures, but these areas also bring risk of forest fires during the warmer months of the year. When visiting Houston, especially in the summer, please regularly check the BC Wildfire Service website for information on any fire bans that may be in effect, and for potential wildfire risks.

BEAR AWARENESS

Houston is home to both black bears and grizzlies, so take precautions:

  • Make noise on trails to avoid surprising a bear.
  • Look for signs like tracks or scat.
  • Store food securely —use bear-resistant containers or hang food well away from your campsite. Never keep food in tents or coolers.
  • Keep your site clean and dispose of garbage properly.
  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

We live in grizzly bear country. These powerful animals are essential to the local ecosystem, and efforts to protect their habitat help ensure their future here. For a closer look at Houston’s wildlife history, visit the Visitor Centre to see the legendary “Phantom Grizzly Bear.” Weighing 975 lbs and standing 11’ tall, this 20-year-old bear became infamous after reports of livestock losses led ranchers and conservation officers to its discovery. Displayed with a salmon in its jaws, it’s a striking reminder of the balance between nature and the people who share this land.

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS

Houston’s landscapes support eagles, deer, elk, moose, coyotes, wolves, and cougars.

  • Keep a safe distance and respect their space.
  • Watch quietly without disturbing their natural behaviour.

BACKCOUNTRY AND ROAD SAFETY

  • Forest Service Roads (FSRs) are remote and rugged—carry two-way radios and check posted road channels.
  • Cell service is spotty at best, so pack extra supplies and plan for emergencies.
  • Forestry roads are typically not maintained so it is highly recommended that you travel these roads with a 4×4 vehicle or large SUV with good road clearance to avoid damage to your vehicle, and risk of getting stranded.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

Help preserve our wilderness for others to enjoy.

  • Pack out all waste – leave no trace.
  • If you’re planning a campfire during your visit, please first check the BC Wildfire Service website to make sure there are no fire bans in effect. Even if campfires are allowed during your stay, please keep them small, and never leave a campfire unattended. Always ensure your fire is completely out before you leave.
  • Respect the land, wildlife, and other visitors.

For detailed safety info or wildlife tips, visit local wildlife agencies or the Houston Visitor Centre at 3289 Yellowhead Hwy.