Explore Vancouver Island’s
Premier Hikes
Embark on unforgettable hiking adventures across Vancouver Island’s stunning wilderness. Whether you're seeking a challenging multi-day trek or a relaxing day hike, we offer a range of guided hikes suited to all levels. From alpine lakes to rugged mountain peaks, each trek is designed to provide an immersive experience in nature, with expert guidance and a focus on safety. Book your adventure today and discover the beauty of Vancouver Island’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Mt. Myra - Tennet - Sandbag Lakes
Overview:
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~18-20 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,300m
Duration: Day hike, 1-night, or 2-night option
Best Season: July to October
Starting Point: Thelwood Creek Trailhead (Strathcona Provincial Park)
Permit Required? No (but backcountry camping registration required in Strathcona Park)
Description:
A challenging alpine trek through steep forested terrain, rocky ridges, and remote backcountry lakes. The route to Tennent Lake offers incredible mountain views, while Sandbag Lake provides an even more secluded and rewarding backcountry experience. The optional Mount Myra summit offers panoramic views of Strathcona Provincial Park.
Route Highlights:
Thelwood Creek Trailhead – Steep ascent through dense forest with switchbacks.
Tennent Lake – A beautiful alpine lake with scenic campsites. Green water.
Sandbag Lake – A more remote and rugged destination beyond Tennent. Blue water.
Mount Myra Summit (Optional, +3km) – A steep ascent with incredible 360-degree views.
What to Bring:
Essential Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers.
Safety Gear: Bear spray, GPS/map, emergency beacon.
Water & Food: 3-4L of water per day, high-calorie meals, water filtration system supplied.
Camping Gear (Overnight Trips): Lightweight tent, sleeping bag (-5°C rating) mat, bear-proof food storage.
Safety Considerations:
Steep Terrain & Scrambling – Some sections have loose rock and exposed areas.
Rapid Weather Changes – Alpine conditions shift quickly, pack accordingly.
Wildlife Awareness – Bears and cougars frequent the area, proper food storage required.
Remote Backcountry – No cell service, satellite communicator recommended.
Booking Options & Pricing:
Day Hike (Tennent & Sandbag Lakes): $150
1-Night (Camp at Tennent or Sandbag Lake): $250
2-Night (Camp at Both Lakes): $300
Bedwell to Love Lake - Della Falls
Bedwell to Love Lake - Della Falls via Cream Lake, Mount Septimus Snow Shed
Overview:
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Distance: 35-40 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,800 meters
Duration: 2-night or 3-night options
Best Season: July to October
Starting Point: Bedwell Lake Trailhead, Strathcona Provincial Park
Permit Required: No, but backcountry camping registration is required
Description:
This expedition takes you deep into Vancouver Island’s most rugged landscapes. Starting at the Bedwell Lake Trailhead, the route climbs through forested terrain to Bedwell Lake, continues to Cream Lake, and then crosses Mount Septimus’s snowfields before descending to Love Lake. This demanding trek requires advanced navigation, glacier travel experience, and confidence in off-trail hiking.
Route Highlights:
Bedwell Lake Trailhead to Bedwell Lake: Well-maintained with steep ascents, wooden ladders, and scenic viewpoints.
Bedwell Lake to Cream Lake: Rugged alpine meadows and rocky terrain leading to Cream Lake beneath Mount Septimus.
Cream Lake to Mount Septimus Snowfields: A steep glaciated ascent requiring proper gear and experience.
Mount Septimus to Love Lake: A remote and serene alpine lake reached via steep snowfields.
What to Bring:
Essential Gear: Mountaineering boots, ice axe, crampons, hiking poles, waterproof layers.
Safety Gear: Bear spray, GPS, compass, satellite messenger.
Water & Food: High-calorie meals, water filtration system, hydration pack. Electrolytes.
Camping Gear: Four-season tent, alpine-rated sleeping bag/mat, bear-proof food storage.
Safety Considerations:
Technical Terrain: Glacier travel, steep snowfields, potential crevasses.
Weather Variability: Sudden temperature drops, snow, or rain.
Wildlife Encounters: Bears and cougars present; proper food storage is essential.
Isolation: No cell service; emergency communication is required.
Booking Options & Pricing:
2-Night Expedition: $350
3-Night Expedition: $450
This trek is for experienced backcountry hikers prepared for alpine conditions. Based on the Cream to Love Lake Traverse, check Orrin Campbell’s blog for route details.
Mt. Albert Edward - Frink - Castlecrag loop
Mount Albert Edward - Frink - Castlecrag Loop via Circlet Lake
Overview:
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~35 km loop
Elevation Gain: ~1,700 meters
Duration: 2-night or 3-night options
Best Season: July to October
Starting Point: Paradise Meadows Trailhead, Strathcona Provincial Park
Permit Required: No, but backcountry camping registration is required
Description:
This scenic alpine loop features stunning views, multiple lakes, and rugged terrain. Starting from Paradise Meadows, the route passes through lush subalpine forests, traverses the ridgeline of Mount Albert Edward, and loops back via Mount Frink and Castlecrag. The return includes a stop at Moat Lake, with several other lakes along the way, offering excellent rest spots and photo opportunities.
Route Highlights:
Paradise Meadows to Circlet Lake: A well-maintained trail with gentle elevation gain leading to a popular backcountry campsite.
Circlet Lake to Mount Albert Edward: A challenging ascent with panoramic views of Strathcona Park.
Mount Albert Edward to Mount Frink & Castlecrag: A rugged alpine traverse offering a remote wilderness experience.
Return via Moat Lake: A scenic descent with crystal-clear waters and optional swim spots.
What to Bring:
Essential Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers.
Safety Gear: Bear spray, first-aid kit, GPS, compass, emergency communication device.
Water & Food: Lightweight meals, water filtration system, hydration pack.
Camping Gear: Three-season tent, sleeping bag rated for alpine conditions, bear-proof food storage.
Safety Considerations:
Exposed Alpine Terrain: Weather can change rapidly, prepare for wind, rain, or snow.
Wildlife Encounters: Bears and cougars are present; store food properly.
Navigation: Some sections are less defined; a map and GPS are recommended.
Booking Options & Pricing:
2-Night Expedition: $300
3-Night Expedition: $350
This trek is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a multi-day adventure with breathtaking scenery.
Kings Peak
Overview:
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Distance: ~14 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,800 meters
Duration: Overnight (1-night option)
Best Season: July to October
Starting Point: King’s Peak Trailhead, Elk River Valley
Permit Required: No
Description:
King’s Peak is one of Vancouver Island’s most demanding yet rewarding climbs. This route ascends steeply from lush old-growth forests into rugged alpine terrain, culminating in breathtaking summit views. The hike requires strong fitness, experience with steep and technical terrain, and comfort with overnight backcountry camping.
Route Highlights:
Forest Ascent: A steep trail through dense forest, with creek crossings and root-covered paths.
Alpine Basin: The treeline opens to reveal expansive meadows and glacially carved valleys.
Summit Push: A steep final ascent over rocky ridges, with stunning 360° views of Strathcona Park.
What to Bring:
Essential Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers.
Safety Gear: Bear spray, GPS, compass, emergency communication device.
Water & Food: High-calorie meals, hydration pack, water filtration system.
Camping Gear: Lightweight tent, warm sleeping bag, sleeping pad, bear-proof food storage.
Safety Considerations:
Technical Terrain: Loose rock, scree, and exposed sections require careful footing.
Weather Variability: Conditions can change rapidly; prepare for wind, rain, or early snow.
Navigation Challenges: Some sections are unmarked; a GPS and topographic map are recommended.
Booking Options & Pricing:
1-Night Expedition: $250
2-Night Expedition: $300
This adventure is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a demanding yet spectacular overnight trek.
Comox Glacier - 'Queneesh'
Overview:
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~35 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~2,200 meters
Duration: 2-night or 3-night options
Best Season: July to October (weather permitting)
Starting Point: Comox Glacier Trailhead, Strathcona Provincial Park
Permit Required: No, but backcountry camping registration is required in Strathcona Provincial Park
Description:
The Comox Glacier trek offers a rugged and picturesque backcountry adventure in the heart of Strathcona Provincial Park. Starting at the Comox Glacier Trailhead, hikers ascend through dense forests and alpine meadows before reaching the glacier itself. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with the highlight being the iconic Comox Glacier and Queneesh Peak. This challenging trek is ideal for those looking for an immersive wilderness experience, with options for both 2-night and 3-night stays in this remote setting.
Route Highlights:
Forest to Alpine Transition: The journey begins with a steady climb through lush forest before transitioning into alpine meadows and rocky terrain.
Glacier Views: As you reach higher altitudes, the Comox Glacier and surrounding peaks become prominent features.
Queneesh Summit Views: A challenging ascent to the Queneesh Peak provides panoramic views of the glacier and neighboring mountain ranges.
What to Bring:
Essential Gear: Mountaineering boots, ice axe, crampons, trekking poles, waterproof layers, and a headlamp.
Safety Gear: Bear spray, first-aid kit, GPS device, compass, and emergency communication device.
Water & Food: High-calorie meals, water-carrying system (water may be scarce above 1,800 meters), and water filtration system.
Camping Gear: Four-season tent, warm sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and bear-proof food storage.
Safety Considerations:
Glacier Terrain: The route crosses glacier areas, so experience with glacier travel and crevasse navigation is necessary.
Weather Variability: Prepare for rapidly changing weather, including snow, rain, and sudden temperature drops.
Steep Sections: Some areas involve steep, rocky, and potentially unstable snowfields, requiring careful navigation.
Booking Options & Pricing:
2-Night Expedition: $300
3-Night Expedition: $350
This trek is perfect for those seeking a demanding but beautiful multi-day hiking experience, with spectacular alpine scenery and glacier views.
Mt Crest - Lake
Overview:
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: ~14 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,200 meters
Duration: Day hike or overnight options
Best Season: May to October
Starting Point: Mt Crest Trailhead
Permit Required: No, but backcountry camping registration is required in Strathcona Provincial Park
Description:
The Mt Crest Lake View Trek offers a fantastic combination of scenic mountain views and a rewarding trek for those seeking either a day hike or an overnight adventure. Starting from the Mt Crest Trailhead, this route leads hikers through alpine meadows and forests to a stunning lake nestled beneath the towering Mt Crest. It’s a perfect hike for those looking for a shorter but challenging adventure, with an optional overnight camping experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick day hike or a longer stay, this trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Route Highlights:
Lake Views: The trek takes you to a picturesque alpine lake, offering fantastic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Mt Crest Summit Views: For those choosing the overnight option, the summit of Mt Crest offers unparalleled views of the surrounding region.
Wildlife and Flora: This area is rich in wildlife, including deer, mountain goats, and a variety of alpine flowers during the summer months.
What to Bring:
Essential Gear: Hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers, and headlamp.
Safety Gear: Bear spray, first-aid kit, GPS device, compass, and emergency communication device.
Water & Food: Sufficient water-carrying system, lightweight high-calorie food, and a reliable water filtration system.
Camping Gear (for Overnight Option): Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and bear-proof food storage.
Safety Considerations:
Moderate Terrain: Some sections of the trail are steep and require steady footing, particularly when navigating rocky outcrops.
Weather Variability: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so be prepared for sudden shifts in temperature and possible precipitation.
Lake Conditions: The alpine lake is often cold, so be cautious around water when hiking during colder months.
Booking Options & Pricing:
Day Hike: $150
Overnight Hike (1 Night): $250
The Mt Crest Lake View Trek is a perfect option for those seeking a rewarding, scenic hike with flexible durations and an opportunity to explore the stunning alpine environment. Whether a quick day trek or an overnight adventure, it offers amazing views!