We decided that we wanted this weekend to try one of the trails in Mount Washington on Vancouver Island. And as it’s really not far away from our house (less than 30 minutes), we always go for this kind of idea.
Strathcona Provincial Park is the biggest provincial park on the island, and it’s awesome to see the mountains and even snow (we saw it from far away…so we can’t wait for the winter!!!).
How to get there?
If you are coming from Campbell River, head south along the Inland Island Highway (BC-19 S). Turn west onto the Strathcona Parkway, following signs for Mt Washington Resort. Follow this road for 19.0km as it gains approximately 1000m of elevation. When you arrive at the junction beside the ski resort, hang a left towards the Raven Lodge. Park near the Raven Lodge, where you will also find a large map and the Strathcona Wilderness Institute.
How is the trail?
The trail is approximately 8.9 km, and it took around 2 or 3 hours (we wanted to go further, so it took us more time as the weather was rainy and very slippery).
The elevation to get there is 249 meters.
The hike to Lake Helen MacKenzie is a quintessential Vancouver Island hike. The well-maintained hiking trail to Lake Helen MacKenzie comes fully equipped with boardwalks and wide, gravel walkways. As you venture through old-growth forests, the plateau’s incredibly beautiful ambiance fills your heart with delight and wonder.
What can you experience during your hike?
The hike out to Lake Helen MacKenzie is a great one, not too tough, and a classic, family-friendly Vancouver Island hike.
Head down from the parking lot and begin on the trail. The first section of trail heading out to Lake Helen MacKenzie is very well maintained, including raised wooden walkways. At the numerous junctions follow the signs for Helen MacKenzie and Mt. Albert Edward.
As you hike, you will pass by numerous sub-alpine glades and small ponds. There are many other lakes on the plateau, all a short way from the trailhead, so exploration possibilities are endless.
Quite quickly, you will arrive on the northwest shore of Lake Helen MacKenzie. You can continue to the left to enjoy numerous other views, and to find the campground. The rugged face of Mt. Elma and Mt Brooks loom over the opposite side of the impressively large lake.
We learned that the lake is frozen during the winter and that we can get to the other side in snowshoes!!!!
Enjoy this hike, and I can’t wait to get back there when the snow is back!!!
