Explore Vancouver Island’s
Premier Hikes
Embark on unforgettable hiking adventures across Vancouver Island’s wilderness. Whether you are looking for a demanding multi day expedition or a rewarding day hike, Van Isle Treks offers a range of guided outings for every level of experience. From alpine lakes to rugged peaks, each journey is designed to immerse you in nature while keeping safety, preparation, and stewardship at the core. Book your next adventure today and experience the beauty of Vancouver Island’s most breathtaking landscapes.
5040 - Cobalt Lake
5040 Peak via Cobalt Lake
Overview
This is one of the most rewarding alpine hikes on Vancouver Island. The route climbs steeply to sweeping summit views and passes by Cobalt Lake, a stunning alpine lake below the peak. Expect a challenging but achievable adventure for those with good fitness and proper gear.
Distance and Elevation
About 6.5 km each way with 1150 m of gain. Average time is 5 to 7 hours round trip, depending on pace and conditions. Best season is July through October.
Route Highlights
• Steep forest ascent with technical roots and rocks
• Subalpine meadows opening to wide views
• A short side path to Cobalt Lake, ideal for a break or a cold dip
• A final summit push that includes light scrambling and rewards with 360 degree views of surrounding mountains and Clayoquot Sound
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, layered clothing, rain protection, gloves, GPS or map, headlamp, and bear spray. Carry at least 1.5 L of water and high-energy snacks. A filter is available to refill at the lake.
Overnight Option
If camping at Cobalt Lake, bring a lightweight tent, sleeping bag and mat. Bear-proof food caches are provided at the lake.
Safety Notes
• Some sections are steep and exposed, use caution especially when wet
• Weather changes quickly in alpine areas, be ready for rapid shifts
• Wildlife is present, proper food storage is essential
• Cell service is unreliable, always leave your plan with someone you trust
Contribution
Guidance for a day hike is 150. An overnight at Cobalt Lake is 250. A two night adventure is 300. These contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Triple Peak - Second Lake
Triple Peak - Second Lake
Overview
Triple Peak is one of the more technical alpine routes on Vancouver Island. The hike involves steep terrain, rope-assisted sections, and scrambling through rugged landscapes. The route to Second Lake is challenging but rewarding for those with solid fitness and comfort on exposed ground. This outing is not about summiting at all costs but about reaching as far as you can safely travel.
Distance and Elevation
The approach is about 5.5 km each way with 1100 m of elevation gain. Expect 6 to 8 hours round trip depending on conditions and group pace. Best season is July through October.
Route Highlights
• A steep root-filled climb through forest to reach alpine terrain
• Boulder fields and scree slopes that test balance and focus
• Rope-assisted sections that provide safety and support on the ascent
• Second Lake, an alpine gem set between rocky ridges with clear reflections and quiet surroundings
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, gloves for rope sections, layered clothing, waterproof jacket, trekking poles, GPS or map. Carry at least 1 L of water, electrolyte packs, and high calorie food. Water can be filtered from streams and waterfalls along the route.
Overnight Option
If camping at Second Lake, bring an ultralight tent, warm sleeping bag and mat. Bear-proof food storage is essential in this area.
Safety Notes
• The route includes scrambling and rope navigation
• Some sections are narrow ledges with steep drop-offs
• Weather can shift quickly, always prepare for rapid changes
• Wildlife is present, proper storage and awareness are critical
• Cell service is unavailable, always have a satellite communicator or beacon and leave your plan with someone you trust
Contribution
Guidance for a day hike is 150. An overnight at Second Lake is 250. A two night adventure is 300. These contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Century Sam
Century Sam Lake
Overview
Century Sam Lake is one of Vancouver Island’s most striking alpine lakes, famous for its turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and seasonal ice formations. The hike is short but steep, moving through mossy forest, boulder fields, and creek crossings before opening to the glacier-fed lake.
Distance and Elevation
About 5 km round trip with 300 m of elevation gain. Average time is 4 to 5 hours round trip, depending on conditions. Best season is July through October.
Route Highlights
• Steady climb through lush old growth forest with mossy ground and muddy patches
• A rocky boulder field crossing that requires careful footing, especially after rain
• Expansive views opening to turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs as you approach the lake
• Seasonal ice formations near the shoreline in early summer (always assess safety before approaching)
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, rain jacket, extra layers, GPS or map, and bear spray. Carry at least 2 L of water and high energy food. Creek crossings are part of the route, so bring footwear that can handle wet conditions. Swimsuit optional for those willing to brave the cold alpine water.
Overnight Option
Off trail camping at the lake is possible for those prepared with a lightweight tent, warm sleeping gear, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Ice formations can collapse without warning, never enter unless conditions are fully safe
• Rocks, logs, and creek crossings can be slippery
• Wildlife including bears and cougars are present, make noise and carry bear spray
• Limited cell service, always share your plan with someone reliable before departure
Contribution
Guidance for a day hike is 150. An overnight adventure at the lake is 250. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Myra Falls (Kayak/SUP)
Buttle Lake Paddle to Lower Myra Falls
Overview
This outing offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Buttle Lake by kayak or SUP. Beginning at the estuary on the south end of the lake, the route crosses calm waters toward Lower Myra Falls, passing through the ghostly stumps of an old growth forest left behind after the creation of the dam. At the falls, there is time to hike, swim in clear alpine-fed waters, and relax by the beach before heading back across the lake.
Distance and Duration
Approximate 10 km round trip of paddling. Can be enjoyed as a day trip or extended into an overnight adventure. Best season is June through October, weather permitting.
Route Highlights
• Paddle across the broad waters of Buttle Lake surrounded by mountain views
• Navigate through old growth stumps, a reminder of the forest that once stood before the dam
• A short trail leading to Lower Myra Falls, where cascades drop through rock into pools
• Time to swim, cook a meal, or sit by a fire on the beach and take in the surroundings
What to Bring
Kayak or SUP, paddle, and life jacket are provided. Bring waterproof clothing, first aid kit, whistle, and bear spray. Carry snacks, sufficient drinking water, and a packed lunch.
Overnight Option
For those staying overnight, bring a lightweight tent, sleeping bag and mat, and bear proof food storage. Registration may be required for backcountry camping.
Safety Notes
• All participants must be comfortable on the water and wear life jackets at all times
• Be cautious while moving through shallow sections with old growth stumps
• Weather on the water can shift rapidly, always be prepared for changing conditions
• Wildlife is present in the area, including bears, always follow safety protocols
Contribution
Guidance for a day trip is 150. An overnight is 250. A two night adventure is 300. These contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Landslide - Berg Lakes
Landslide Lake and Berg Lake
Overview
This route follows the Elk River Trail, one of Vancouver Island’s classic treks. The trail winds through towering old growth forest and along the Elk River before reaching Landslide Lake, famous for the massive rockfall from Mount Colonel Foster. From here, a challenging scramble beyond the lake leads to Berg Lake, a remote alpine basin surrounded by rugged cliffs and peaks.
Distance and Elevation
About 30 to 32 km round trip with roughly 1000 m of elevation gain. A long day requires 10 to 12 hours at a sustained pace. Overnight options stretch the trip into 2 or 3 days. Best season is July through October.
Route Highlights
• Gradual forested start on the Elk River Trail with old growth and river views
• Bridge crossings and moderate climbs leading to Landslide Lake
• Landslide Lake itself, with dramatic cliffs and clear alpine waters
• An optional steep scramble beyond to Berg Lake, a secluded high alpine setting rarely visited
Day Hike Option
A full day requires early departure, strong fitness, and the ability to sustain pace with limited breaks. Expect a tough return descent.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, extra socks, rain gear, GPS or map, bear spray, and an emergency beacon. Carry at least 3 L of water with the ability to filter along the route. Energy gels and high protein meals recommended.
Overnight Option
Camping requires registration with BC Parks. Pack a lightweight tent, -5°C rated sleeping bag, mat, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• The day hike is very strenuous and requires peak fitness
• River crossings vary with water levels, trekking poles help with stability
• Berg Lake route is off trail, exposed, and not suitable for beginners
• Bears, cougars, and elk are common in the area, store food properly
• No cell service, a satellite communicator is highly recommended
Contribution
Guidance for a day trip to Landslide Lake is 150. A two day overnight is 250. A three day adventure including Berg Lake is 300. These contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Bedwell - Cream
Landslide Lake and Berg Lake
Overview
This route follows the Elk River Trail, one of Vancouver Island’s classic treks. The path winds through towering old growth forest and along the Elk River before reaching Landslide Lake, famous for the massive rockfall from Mount Colonel Foster. From there, a steep scramble continues to Berg Lake, a remote alpine basin surrounded by rugged cliffs and peaks.
Distance and Elevation
About 30 to 32 km round trip with around 1000 m of elevation gain. A single day push takes 10 to 12 hours. Overnight options extend the outing to 2 or 3 days. Best season is July through October.
Route Highlights
• Gradual start through lush forest on the Elk River Trail
• Bridge crossings and moderate climbs leading to Landslide Lake
• Landslide Lake itself, clear alpine water and dramatic rock walls
• Optional extension to Berg Lake, a secluded high alpine basin
Day Hike Option
A full day requires an early start, peak fitness, and steady pacing with limited breaks. Expect a tough return descent.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, rain gear, extra socks, GPS or map, bear spray, and an emergency beacon. Carry at least 3 L of water with a filter for refills. Bring high calorie food, gels, and protein.
Overnight Option
Backcountry registration with BC Parks is required. Pack a lightweight tent, -5°C sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Very strenuous, only suitable for strong and prepared hikers
• River crossings vary with water levels, poles recommended
• Berg Lake route is off trail and exposed, not for beginners
• Bears, cougars, and elk are common, secure food properly
• No cell service, bring a satellite communicator or leave a plan
Contribution
Guidance for a day trip to Landslide Lake is 150. A two day overnight is 250. A three day adventure including Berg Lake is 300. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.