Located on the Sunshine Coast, the Dakota Ridge area was a premier backcountry winter recreation asset. Unfortunately, access was a challenge, limiting the opportunities to market this unique backcountry area to a broader market.

To improve the access route leading to the Dakota Ridge parking lot, the final four kilometres of the route were widened and resurfaced. To improve water flow along the route, 25 culverts were installed, drainage ditches cleaned, and pullouts constructed. Daylighting was performed by forestry crews to improve visibility and traffic flow along the scenic drive.

Improving access to Dakota Ridge has enabled the Sunshine Coast region to market itself as a winter recreation destination, offering more than 20kms of set cross country ski trails, 8kms of snowshoeing trails as well as access to more rugged backcountry expeditions.  These facilities are now considered a winter season economic driver for the region, generating seasonal business for local bed and breakfasts, restaurants and sporting goods retailers as well as increased business opportunities for eco-tourism operators and transportation companies.