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.
Mt. Myra - Tennet - Sandbag Lakes
Tennent Lake, Sandbag Lake, and Mount Myra
Overview
This route is a challenging alpine trek through steep forest, rocky ridges, and remote lakes in Strathcona Provincial Park. The trail climbs quickly from Thelwood Creek before reaching Tennent Lake, known for its green waters and scenic alpine setting. Beyond lies Sandbag Lake, a more rugged and secluded blue-water lake deep in the backcountry. For those looking for an additional push, Mount Myra offers a steep climb to a panoramic summit with sweeping views across the park.
Distance and Elevation
About 18 to 20 km round trip with roughly 1300 m of elevation gain. Can be done as a demanding day trip or stretched into one or two nights. Best season is July through October.
Route Highlights
• A steep ascent from Thelwood Creek through dense forest and switchbacks
• Tennent Lake, a green alpine lake with scenic campsites
• Sandbag Lake, a remote destination beyond Tennent with blue waters and rugged surroundings
• Optional Mount Myra summit, adding 3 km with 360 degree alpine views
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers, GPS or map, bear spray, and an emergency beacon. Carry 3 to 4 L of water per day with filtration support for refills. Pack high calorie meals and snacks.
Overnight Option
Camping at Tennent Lake or Sandbag Lake requires backcountry registration. Bring a lightweight tent, -5°C sleeping bag, mat, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Steep trails, loose rock, and exposed sections require care
• Weather in the alpine can shift rapidly, prepare for all conditions
• Wildlife including bears and cougars are present, food storage is essential
• No cell service, bring a satellite communicator or leave a clear plan with someone
Contribution
Guidance for a day hike to Tennent and Sandbag Lakes is 150. A one night trip camping at either lake is 250. A two night outing with both lakes and the optional Mount Myra summit is 300. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Bedwell to Love Lake - Della Falls
Bedwell to Love Lake via Cream Lake and Mount Septimus
Overview
This expedition crosses some of the most rugged backcountry on Vancouver Island. Starting at the Bedwell Lake Trailhead, the route climbs steeply to Bedwell Lake, continues through alpine meadows to Cream Lake beneath Mount Septimus, and then traverses snowfields across Septimus before reaching the remote shores of Love Lake. This trek is only for advanced and experienced backcountry hikers with alpine skills, strong fitness, navigation ability, and the proper gear.
Distance and Elevation
About 35 to 40 km round trip with 1800 m of elevation gain. Best completed over two or three nights between July and October.
Route Highlights
• A steep and scenic climb to Bedwell Lake with ladders, viewpoints, and alpine terrain
• Traversing rugged meadows and rocky slopes on the way to Cream Lake at the base of Mount Septimus
• Ascending the snowfields of Septimus with glacier travel skills and equipment
• Descending to Love Lake, a remote alpine basin with clear waters and quiet surroundings
What to Bring
Mountaineering boots, ice axe, crampons, hiking poles, waterproof layers, bear spray, GPS, compass, and a satellite messenger. Carry high calorie meals, electrolytes, and a water filtration system. Overnight gear should include a four season tent, alpine rated sleeping bag and mat, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• This route involves glacier travel, steep snowfields, and potential crevasses
• Weather in the alpine is highly unpredictable and can shift rapidly
• Wildlife including bears and cougars is present, proper storage is essential
• No cell service, emergency communication is mandatory
Contribution
Guidance for a two night expedition is 350. A three night expedition is 450. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Note
This trek is based on the Cream to Love Lake traverse, a route documented by experienced backcountry travelers such as Orrin Campbell. It is only recommended for advanced and experienced hikers confident in technical alpine conditions.
Mt. Albert Edward - Frink - Castlecrag loop
Mount Albert Edward – Frink – Castlecrag Loop via Circlet Lake
Overview
This alpine circuit combines some of Strathcona Provincial Park’s most iconic ridges and lakes into a challenging loop. Starting from Paradise Meadows, the trail passes through lush subalpine forest to Circlet Lake, climbs the ridgeline of Mount Albert Edward, and continues across rugged alpine terrain over Mount Frink and Castlecrag. The return passes by Moat Lake and other alpine lakes, offering excellent rest spots and photo opportunities along the way. This trek is best suited for experienced hikers prepared for multi day backcountry travel.
Distance and Elevation
About 35 km loop with 1700 m of elevation gain. Best completed over two or three nights between July and October.
Route Highlights
• Paradise Meadows to Circlet Lake, a steady approach with gentle elevation gain and popular camping areas
• A steep climb from Circlet Lake to the ridgeline of Mount Albert Edward with wide views of the park
• Traversing the rugged alpine ridge over Mount Frink and Castlecrag for a remote wilderness experience
• Returning via Moat Lake, with crystal clear waters and possible swim spots
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers, first aid kit, bear spray, map and compass, GPS, and an emergency communication device. Carry lightweight high energy meals, hydration system, and water filtration.
Overnight Option
Backcountry registration with BC Parks is required. Bring a three season tent, alpine rated sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Alpine terrain is exposed with weather that can shift quickly to wind, rain, or snow
• Wildlife is present, proper storage and awareness are essential
• Navigation can be tricky in sections, map and GPS are highly recommended
• No cell service, always have a satellite communicator or leave a clear plan
Contribution
Guidance for a two night expedition is 300. A three night expedition is 350. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Kings Peak
King’s Peak
Overview
King’s Peak is one of Vancouver Island’s most demanding yet rewarding alpine climbs. The trail rises steeply from old growth forest into open basins and rugged ridges before the final summit push. This outing requires strong fitness, confidence on steep and technical ground, and comfort with overnight backcountry travel. It is only recommended for experienced hikers.
Distance and Elevation
About 14 km round trip with 1800 m of elevation gain. Best season is July through October. Most hikers complete it as a one night trip, though a two night option allows for a more relaxed pace.
Route Highlights
• A steep forested ascent with creek crossings and root covered paths
• Alpine basins with meadows and glacially carved valleys above treeline
• A final summit push over rocky ridges to panoramic 360 degree views of Strathcona Park
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers, bear spray, GPS, compass, and an emergency communication device. Carry high calorie meals, hydration system, and a water filter. Overnight gear includes a lightweight tent, warm sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Steep terrain with loose rock, scree, and exposed sections require careful footing
• Weather shifts quickly, prepare for wind, rain, or early snow
• Some sections are unmarked, GPS and map are recommended
• No cell service, always bring a satellite communicator or leave a clear plan
Contribution
Guidance for a one night expedition is 250. A two night expedition is 300. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Comox Glacier - 'Queneesh'
Comox Glacier and Queneesh Peak
Overview
The Comox Glacier trek is a rugged and scenic backcountry adventure in the heart of Strathcona Provincial Park. Beginning at the Comox Glacier Trailhead, the route climbs steadily from forest to alpine meadows and rocky ridges before reaching the glacier itself. Highlights include sweeping views of surrounding valleys and mountains, the massive ice of the Comox Glacier, and the option to ascend Queneesh Peak for panoramic summit vistas. This trek is only recommended for experienced hikers with alpine travel skills.
Distance and Elevation
About 35 km round trip with 2200 m of elevation gain. Best completed as a two or three night trip between July and October, weather permitting.
Route Highlights
• A steady forested ascent transitioning into alpine meadows and rugged terrain
• Expansive views of the glacier and surrounding peaks as elevation is gained
• A challenging side ascent to Queneesh Peak with 360 degree views over Strathcona’s mountains and valleys
What to Bring
Mountaineering boots, ice axe, crampons, trekking poles, waterproof layers, headlamp, GPS or map, compass, first aid kit, bear spray, and an emergency communication device. Carry high calorie meals and a water system with filtration. Water may be scarce above 1800 m. Overnight gear should include a four season tent, alpine rated sleeping bag and mat, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Glacier travel requires prior experience with crevasse navigation and alpine safety
• Weather in the alpine is highly variable and can change rapidly to snow, rain, or sudden cold
• Steep rocky sections and unstable snowfields require caution and proper gear
• No cell service, always carry a satellite communicator or leave a clear plan with someone
Contribution
Guidance for a two night expedition is 300. A three night expedition is 350. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.
Mt Crest - Lake
Mt Crest Lake View Trek
Overview
The Mt Crest Lake View Trek combines alpine scenery, a rewarding climb, and the option for either a challenging day trip or a relaxed overnight adventure. Starting from the Mt Crest Trailhead, the route winds through alpine meadows and forest before reaching a pristine lake beneath the slopes of Mt Crest. For those staying overnight, the summit offers wide views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This outing is well suited for hikers seeking a shorter but still demanding alpine experience.
Distance and Elevation
About 14 km round trip with 1200 m of elevation gain. Best season is May through October. Can be completed as a full day or with an overnight stay at the lake.
Route Highlights
• A picturesque alpine lake framed by surrounding ridges and valleys
• Optional overnight with a push to the summit of Mt Crest for panoramic views
• Rich wildlife including deer and mountain goats, and alpine flowers in summer
What to Bring
Hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof layers, headlamp, GPS or map, compass, first aid kit, bear spray, and an emergency communication device. Carry high calorie food and a water system with filtration. Overnight gear includes a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and bear safe food storage.
Safety Notes
• Some steep and rocky sections require steady footing
• Weather in the alpine can shift suddenly, always prepare for rapid changes
• The lake is very cold, use caution around the water especially in shoulder season
Contribution
Guidance for a day hike is 150. A one night overnight is 250. Contributions cover time, preparation, and shared safety support.