The Ministry of Transportation and Transit is now leading efforts to safely reopen Bamfield Main Road, in co-operation with Mosaic Forest Management.
This follows recent wildfires that have left parts of the road unsafe.
A 1.5-kilometre stretch of Bamfield Main Road, between kilometre 8 and kilometre 9.5, remains closed due to unstable slopes affected by fire. Hazards in the area include falling rocks, dangerous trees and debris-flow risks. Temporary BC Hydro equipment in the area poses additional safety hazards.
Due to the complex nature of the recovery, similar to challenges faced on Highway 4 after the Cameron Bluffs wildfire, the ministry has assumed the lead role for developing a reopening strategy for this section of Bamfield Main Road. Mosaic Forest Management fully supports this approach and is collaborating with the Province to restore public access as quickly and safely as possible.
Crews are assessing the area. A timeline for reopening will be shared in mid-September 2025, once assessments are complete and a work plan is in place.
Now that the wildfire is classified as being held, the following work will be initiated:
- Dangerous tree removal: Crews will assess and remove unstable trees upslope to reduce safety risks.
- BC Hydro repairs: Permanent power-pole repairs will be completed.
- Reopening protocols: Plans will be developed to guide safe reopening, especially during strong winds and heavy rain, similar to the approach used after the Cameron Bluffs wildfire.
In the interest of safety, public access to the closed section remains restricted. Concrete barriers will be installed the Aug. 30-Sept. 1 weekend to block unauthorized entry and allow crews to work safely. Electronic signs will be placed ahead of the closure points to alert drivers and provide space to turn around.
Closure points:
- North end: Bamfield Main at the Cell Spot (kilometre marker 7)
- South end: Bamfield Main at Museum Forest Service Road – (kilometre marker 10)
Drivers must continue to use the Youbou detour until Bamfield Main can be reopened. Drivers are reminded this is an industrial road with variable surface conditions. Drivers are advised to travel with caution, adjust speeds and avoid the route at night if unfamiliar with it.
The ministry will continue to closely monitor slope stability and assess safety hazards to inform reopening plans. The post-fire terrain in this area is unpredictable, similar to conditions observed on Highway 4 after the Cameron Bluffs wildfire.
Even after Bamfield Main Road reopens, temporary closures should be expected during adverse weather, such as heavy rain or strong winds. These closures will be managed using permanent closure gates, which will replace the temporary barriers and be installed by the end of September 2025.