Campbell River Regional Trails
Campbell River Regional Trails
Beaver Lodge Lands Forest Lands
Managed by: The Greenways Land Trust
Address: #208 – 991 Alder Street, Campbell River BC, V9W 5B1
Situated in the mid eastern inland region of Campbell River, within the Simm’s Creek watershed, with access via South Dogwood Street at North 
Island College and Timberline High School. These lands were logged by railway at the beginning of the century, reforested in the early 1930’s, the endowment lands are now graced with 70 to 100 year old second growth timber. The evidence of the turn of the century logging is still under the canopy and if you look closely at many of the decaying stumps you may see the undercuts of spring boards which were common in those days.
The 415 hectares (1028 acres) of land was endowed to the people of Campbell River in 1931 by the Elk River Timber Company, given in trust to be used for experimental forest management. This was one of the first forest plantations in BC. In recognition of the binding obligation of the gift for forestry purposes the Beaver Lodge Forest Trust Renewal Act was passed in 1993. This is the first experimental forest protected under its own provincial legislation.
The lands are located within the coastal western hemlock bio-geoclimactic zone, typical of Vancouver Island. Prior to European settlement this area would have experienced natural fire frequency with the drier portions of the forest growing species that are well adapted to this regime – Douglas fir, big-leaf maple and red alder. The wetter low lands are more favorable to red cedar, grand fir and Sitka spruce.
Take note of the decaying logs on the forest floor serving the
important function of providing nutrients to the budding new growth. This ecosystem provides a perfect habitat for plants, insects and wildlife as well as restoring nutrients to the soil.
The Beaver Lodge Forest Endowment Lands are home to a wide variety of wildlife species including Coho salmon and cutthroat trout which grow unimpeded in the Simms Creek water shed. On land it is not uncommon to see black tail deer, black bear, bald eagles, owls and a myriad of waterfowl and small winged birds.
The Beaver Lodge Lands are under the management of the Beaver Lodge Forest Trust Committee a subsidiary of the Greenways Land Trust.
Campbell River Estuary Trail - Mryt Thompson
Access: Just a short .5 kilometer run from the downtown core, north to the Quinsam Hotel, turn left on Maple Street, at the end of the street the trailhead is to your right.
Distance/Time: 1.5 kilometers – 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: There has been some trail erosion; this part of the trial has been well marked.
An appealing and diverse one-way trail that begins at the end of Maple Street. When approaching from the north (the Tamarac Street Intersection) proceed on Highway 19A, you turn left at the Quinsam Hotel in Campbellton heading towards the river. Parking is at a premium on this trail head so be sure to park back from the river. If possible use the parking lot at the corner of the Island highway and Maple Street.
Approximately a 1.5 km return trip, this well marked trail follows the estuary lands of the Campbell River. Largely rehabilitated from its not so distant past as a logging dump and railway yard, this area was taken over by the Greenways Land Trust and has had extensive work done to return it to its natural state.
The Campbell River Estuary walk is particularly fascinating in the fall months when the salmon are spawning You can see evidence of this activity all over the trail and banks of the river. Be aware that this trail is often used by locals to take their dogs for a walk. Please pick up after your dog. Plastic bags and garbage cans are available at the trailhead for your use.
Canyon View Trail
Access: Access for the Canyon View Trail is best at the BC Hydro regeneration station 3 km north of the Tamarac Street intersection on Highway 28 and Highway 19 and 19A. Parking is ample and views of the river from this vantage point are stunning.
Distance/Time: 6 kilometers – 1 hour circle route
Difficulty: Moderate, some uphill
Condition: There have recently been some landslides on the trail, caution is to be exercised
It is easy to see the parking lot from there. The Canyon View Trail was constructed in 1991 through the joint efforts of local industry providers and the Rotary Club of Campbell River. The trail was named for the breath-taking view of the canyon from the suspension bridge. The trail has proven to be an increasingly popular recreational facility for both visitors and residents of Campbell River.
The Canyon View Trail is a scenic 6 km circular hike through West Coast forest along the Campbell River. The route makes a good family outing and takes about one and a half hours to complete. BC Hydro’s trailhead is located at the John Hart Generating Station off Highway 28. The west end of the trial crosses the canyon on an 80-foot walkway which camouflages the natural gas pipeline running beneath it. At the east end of the trial, hikers cross the Campbell River using Timber West’s logging bridge and the Quinsam River using the Ministry of Transportation and Highways Bridge. Hikers should use extreme caution when crossing the Quinsam and Campbell River bridges, as vehicular traffic may be present.
This trail can also be accessed directly across Highway 28 from the Quinsam Campground. The Canyon View Trail can be a circuit by crossing this bridge and following the trail downstream on the north side of the river through salmon spawning channels and river viewpoints. This circuit is approximately 4 kilometers. This is a popular walking or jogging trail. The Millennium Trial can be accessed off the Canyon View Trial just upstream from the John Hart Hydro Station at the junction of the Canyon View pedestrian bridge.
Elk River Timber Road
Access: From 14th Avenue-Homewood Road at the Maple Street intersection or from Evergreen Road 1 kilometer west of Dogwood Street.
Distance/Time: 3.5 kilometers 1 hour – return
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Paved – Wheel Chair Accessible
Although this is a wheel chair accessible trail, there is a slight continuous uphill grade from the north to the south. This trail was an old service road for logging trucks and is in very good condition. There are nice views of the salmon streams that intersects the road about half way; I also noted that this trail is often snow plowed during the winter months.
Kingfisher Creek/Haig Brown Trail
Access: Off Highway 28, northwest towards Gold River
Distance/Time: 1 kilometer – approximately 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
The Haig-Brown property located on Highway 28, just west of the Tamarac Street intersection on the northern reaches of the city of Campbell River begins a series of trails that are in good condition. Keep in mind that the restoration of many of these trials is ongoing and they may be under construction. This salmon enhancement initiative for educational purposes and in memory of the late 
Roderick-Haig-Brown has changed the face of these lesser tributaries by taking a primarily industrial site and returning it to its natural state. The total distance of the trails is less than 1 km, but this makes for a most interesting walk when the salmon are running from late July until November.
This trail parallels wetlands and leads form the campground back toward the Campbell River and Highway 28, visitors can spot beavers and marsh birds along the way. On the other side of Highway 28 this trail connects with the Canyon view trail and a fish ladder viewpoint. Use caution crossing this busy highway. Downstream from the fish ladder will lead you back to the campground; follow the highway upstream to the Canyon View trail and Millennium trail.
McIvor Lake Trails
Access: 5 kilometers northwest of the Tamarac Street intersection on Highway 28, turn right onto McIvor Lake Road. There is a well marked City of Campbell River sign at the turn off. The trails are a short .5 kilometer to your left at the first parking lot.
Cick the Picture for a video of theMud Run
Distance/Time: 35 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
The main trail follows the lakeshore and can be accessed from several of the parking lots that are directly adjacent to the lake.
This trail has an interesting feature at its most southern aspect, known as Doggie Point. Where the beach meets the trail is an animal cemetery, where for decades people have been memorializing their beloved pets with home-made shrines. These shrines are intermingled amongst the trees and are scattered over an acre or so at the point.
There are a myriad of trails and old access roads in the area that are a short distance from the lake and most of these are on crown land; however we suggest you exercise caution not to trespass as there is private land in the vicinity.
Menzies Mountain Trail
Access: 25.6 kilometers north of Campbell River on Highway 19.
Distance/Time: 5 kilometers one way – 3 hours return
Difficulty: Strenuous, 550 meter elevation gain
Condition: Good – deactivated logging road
Elevation Gain: 550 meters
From the Tamarac Street intersection drive north towards the Village of Sayward on Highway 19, for some 25 kilometers, the turn off for the trail is on the east side or (right) side of the highway. It is difficult to find this old logging road as it is not well marked, but your efforts will be well rewarded.
The hike follows a deactivated logging road and is considered quite strenuous because of the vertical rise. Good hiking boots are recommended for the five kilometer hike uphill. There is loose and broken rock all along the length of the trail. The elevation gain is 550 meters to the lookout with a few steep sections. The lookout itself is accessed by the only small road to the right of the main trail that access’s the cliffs approximately 200 feet off the main trail.
Millennium Trail
Distance/Time: 2.4 kilometers – 1.5 hours return
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
One of our new trails built by the Campbell River Rotary Club, this trail can be accessed from the Elk Falls viewpoint day-use parking lot and connects the Elk Falls Trails and the Canyon View Trail. This trail parallels the Campbell River along the canyon route, offering excellent views of the waterfall and the mature forest, containing some old-growth Douglas fir. This trail links with the Canyon View Trail just upstream from the John Hart Hydro Station at the junction of the Canyon View pedestrian bridge.
Myrt Thompson Trail
Access: From Maple street, off Highway 19A, turn right immediately north of Home Depot, just north of the downtown core.
Distance/Time: 1.3 kilometers one way - 46 minutes round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good, however caution is to be advised close to the river banks as 
in some spots they are eroded.
This trail is particularly interesting in the late summer or fall months when the salmon are running. Following the banks of the Campbell River to the heart of the Estuary there are all kinds of interesting natural activities going on. From an astonishing variety of Bird life to seals, otters, salmon that you can actually see in the water to the marine traffic that pass by the opening to the estuary.
In times gone by the whole of the Campbell River estuary was a train station and log dump for heavy industry, this land is in a state of continuous upgrade. It began in the early 80's with trucking out thousands of cubic meters of soil to be cleaned and brought back, then the planting of indigenous plants. Today those efforts have finally been rewarded. Although there is still an ongoing effort to enhance the area, the wildlife that abounds here today is tenfold what it was 20 years ago.
Beware on this trail in the early spring months, it is known for its ticks, make sure you check for ticks on your animals and wear a hat.
Nunns' Creek Nature Trust Trail
Access: Access to Nunns' Creek Park is via 16th Avenue, approximately ¼ km west of Ironwood Street.
Distance/Time: 1 kilometer one way – 30 minutes round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
Directly off 16th avenue in downtown Campbell River west of the Campbell River Common. A leisurely walk through the park, providing an appealing view of low lands in what was once called Cod Fish Flats.
Amenities include a kids play ground, a skate board park, washrooms and several baseball diamonds, as well as some smaller trails. Massive flooding occurs in the park in the Fall and Spring when we receive copious amounts of precipitation. The reason for this is simple; the creek itself is more like a slough. It is not immediately apparent, but this area was originally a part of the Campbell River Estuary and quite literally became a west coast swamp when the heavy rains come in the late fall.
These facts make it a very interesting walk. Although the trails are short, the flora and fauna are interesting. The forest of mostly deciduous trees can blanket the ground in a heavy cover of leaves and debris that in the Autumn can be 1 foot thick.
Oyster River Walk
Access: Follow Highway 19A south for 18 km. Turn left on Glenmore Road just before you reach the Oyster River Bridge. The trailhead faces Glenmore Road.
Distance/Time: 20 minutes round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
The trail itself is a very leisurely walk encompassing great river vistas, a tall stand of old growth trees and a meandering stream that feeds into the Oyster River. The trail connects with the Oyster River Slough at a sandy beach at the south end of Discovery Passage. At the confluence of the river and the beach at what looks like a bend in the trail, notice the eagle’s nest in one of the larger old growth Douglas firs still standing, just a few feet off the beach.
The Pump House Trail/Elk Falls Provincial Park
Access: A mere 2 kilometers north of the downtown shopping core in Campbell River, follow Highway 28 north to Gold River, when you cross the Quinsam River, you are in Elk Falls Park.
Distance/Time: Depends on which trails you choose.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Condition: Good
Park Size: 1,087 hectares
The Pump House trails are an element of the Elk Falls Provincial Park and BC Hydro lands. This zone proposes trails for all levels of hikers and riders, and is the starting point for many longer trails, ultimately connecting with the Snowden Demonstration Forest Trails. From downtown drive north to Highway 28 past the logging road bridge immediately before Elk Falls Provincial Park, turn right and proceed over the Campbell River on the old logging bridge to a short paved road that climbs a steep hill to the start of the trail. On your right will be what is deemed a “suicide slide”. Turn left on the first gravel road if you can, if the gate is locked just park on the road at the gate, and the trail begins just to the left of the water tower.
These trails feature a variety of forest vistas including old growth maple forests and low lands, rocky features and what looks like some sub alpine. These trails are used primarily by mountain bikers so be aware when on route.
Easy to advanced cycling around hiking trails and old logging roads. There are currently no maps available for these trails.
Quinsam Nature Trail/Elk Falls Provincial Park
Access: 1 kilometer north on the Gold River Highway 28
Distance/Time: 2 kilometers one way – 45 minutes round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Extensive undercutting of the trail by the Quinsam River
Access can be gained from Elk Falls Provincial Park, just follow the road paralleling the river to the end. Park by the gate and look for the trail that follows the river. Elk Falls Park is located about 5 kilometers from the downtown core of Campbell River.
This trail allows for a beautiful walk though the low lands of the Quinsam River through a gigantic Douglas fir forest interspersed with cedar trees, some of which are almost a thousand years old. Cross the road and continue on the trail to the other side of the Argonaut Road and proceed to the Quinsam Salmon Hatchery. Here the trail follows spawning channels edged by old growth maple trees to create a gorgeous canopy.
Many of these trees were mere seedlings at the time of William the Conqueror in 1066. The great Bloedel Fire of 1938 burnt an area of old growth forest directly behind this spot. The fire which when extinguished left a path of destruction more than 34 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide but this small area which is now park survived.
Raven Channel Trail
Access: From the Tamarac Street Intersection, travel towards Gold River on Highway 19. Turn an immediate left and pull into The Brick Parking Lot. The trail head is directly below the bridge.
Distance/Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
The Raven Channel Trail follows the man made or reconstructed channel built to facilitate the spawning of the Campbell River’s annual late season chum salmon run. If you continue on, this trail connects with the Baikie Island Municipal Reserve. This trail offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and I have seen beaver, mink, raccoon, deer and the odd black bear here and had a face to face encounter with the giant Blue Herron.
Ripple Rock Trail
Access: 16 kilometers north of the Tamarac Street Intersection on Highway 19
Distance/Time: 4.7 kilometers one way – 4 hours return
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Condition: Good
Hazards: Steep bluff faces, slippery rocks
On a cloudy, quiet morning, April 5, 1958, Ripple Rock was blasted away in a matter of 
seconds, culminating half a century of debate, petitions, studies and preparation, the explosion removed the most notorious hazard on the inside passage between Vancouver and Alaska. It was perhaps the worst navigation menace in North America.
14 kilometers (9 miles) north of Campbell River, Seymour Narrows is a narrow strait 3 kilometers (2 miles) long and barely .8 kilometers (1/2 mile) wide, between Vancouver Island and tiny Maude Island, just off the west coast of Quadra Island. In this strait, the infamous shoal called Ripple Rock consisted of two hump-like summits about 900 meters (3,000 feet) long and 100 meters (350 feet) wide. The highest point was within 3 meters (10 feet) at low water.
Captain George Vancouver, on his voyage of exploration in 1792, described Seymour Narrows thus: “The tide, setting to the southward through this confined passage, rushes with such immense impetuosity as to produce the appearance of falls considerably high; though not the least obstruction of either rocks or sands, so far as we had an opportunity to examining it, appeared to exist.”
When fourteen hundred tons of Nitramex 2H explosives were ignited to blow Ripple Rock early in the am., April 5, 1958, the sight was awesome. Seven hundred thousand tons (635,028 tones) of rock and water erupted in a blast that reached a height of 305 meters (1,000 feet). The great mushrooming spectacle of flying debris lasted less than 10 seconds before being engulfed in a cloud of gas.
Today you can take a 4 -hour return hike to the historic sight of Ripple Rock Trail.
The trailhead is 14 kilometers (9 miles) Ripple Rock Trail north of Campbell River on Highway 19. The parking lot is clearly visible on the east (right) hand side of the highway. The hike itself is considered moderate to difficult and the rock can be very slippery when wet. Take your time and plan a picnic at the end of the trial as the view of Seymour Narrows is unequaled and it is a very pleasant place to watch the marine traffic go by. Bring your own water and make sure your valuables are not left in the car.
To view photo gallery, click on pictureThe trail follows the hydro lines until it reaches the beach at the first point of interest. Then it continues first across a suspension bridge then up a series of steep slopes that follow the bluffs with good viewpoints along the way. At the 3 kilometer point the trial slopes down to Nyphe Cove where there is a small sandy beach, from here the trail climbs again and ends at the lookout with a spectacular view of Seymour Narrows historic sight of Ripple Rock.
The trailhead is 14 kilometers (9 miles) north of Campbell River on Highway 19. The parking lot is clearly visible on the east (right) hand side of the highway. The hike itself is considered moderate to difficult and the rock can be very slippery when wet. Take your time and plan a picnic at the end of the trial as the view of Seymour Narrows is unequaled and it is a very pleasant place to watch the marine traffic go by. Bring your own water and make sure your valuables are not left in the car.
The trail follows the hydro lines until it reaches the beach at the first point of interest. Then it continues first across a suspension bridge then up a series of steep slopes that follow the bluffs with good viewpoints along the way. At the 3 kilometer point the trial slopes down to Nyphe Cove where there is a small sandy beach, from here the trail climbs again and ends at the lookout with a spectacular view of Seymour Narrows.
Rotary Seawalk
Access: From any number of points from the Marine Heritage Center or immediately south of Hidden Harbour to Twillingate Road, approximately 1 km south of Willow Point.
Distance/Time: 5 to 6 kilometers, the entire walk is 1.5 hours one way.
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Paved, wheel Chair Accessible
The Rotary Seawalk is another excellent community project spearheaded by the Campbell River Rotary Club. It’s a great place to walk, run, bike, push a stroller or roller blade. The 5.5 kilometer paved walkway follows the Campbell River City shoreline from the downtown core at the Marine Heritage Center to just south of Willow Point. Enjoy the view, search for hidden wildflowers, amble down to the beach for a picnic, admire the hospice gardens at Rotary Park and the driftwood carvings south at Frank James Park, or check out the 50th parallel sign along the way. At the end of the walk if the tide is part way in make sure you have your camera, the seals tend to sun themselves on the rocks when the tops of the rocks are above the waterline.
Simms Creek Greenway
Access: Merecroft – McPhedran – Elk River Timber Road
Distance/Time: 4.3 kilometers or 4 hours return
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
There are several ways to access the Simms Creek Nature Trail. One is from the west end of Merecroft Road or from the south end of South McPhedran Road. The trail meanders through the back country just west of the city of Campbell River. It is 4.3 km in length and takes about two hours round trip. A moderately easy walk, but very confusing as the area is strewn with small unmarked "deer" trails that provides views of marsh life and beaver dams , the grade is generally even but the trails are not maintained.
Snowden Demonstration Forest
Note: All Snowden Trails are for non-motorized vehicle traffic only.
The River City Cycling Club are the sole "Keepers" of the trials in Snowden Demonstration Forest. If you would like to volunteer to help maintain the trails or would like to join the club please visit their website at www.rivercitycycle.ca.
Access: North of Campbell River from the junction of Highway 19 and 28 at the
Tamarac Street Bridge, follow Highway 28 to Gold River. At the top of General Hill turn right to Brewster Lake Road, at the sign for Loveland Bay stay left across the Dam. Follow the road to the PRT nursery then turn right on an old logging road, the parking lot for the Lost Frog network is 500 meters up the spur on the left hand side of the road 1.5 kilometers on the left hand side of the logging road.
Distance/Time: See below
Difficulty: Varied
Condition: Good
The Snowden Demonstration Forest encompasses trails suitable for both beginners and experts. This active forest contains more than one hundred kilometers of recently upgraded single track trails, which can be accessed from a variety of locations.
Trail Name Rating Length
|
Foreplay |
Easy | 1.2 km |
|
Yellow Dot |
Intermediate | 1.5 km |
|
Ursus |
Easy | 0.7 km |
|
Ridge |
Easy | 1.4 km |
|
Gooseneck Connector |
Easy | 0.1 km |
|
First Bluff |
Intermediate | 0.5 km |
|
Velvet Underground |
Intermediate | 0.4 km |
|
Dean Martin |
Intermediate | 2.7 km |
|
Separated Shoulder |
Advanced | 0.3 km |
|
Jims |
Intermediate | 0.6 km |
|
Lower Deliverance |
Easy | 1.5 km |
|
Upper Deliverance |
Intermediate | 1.8 km |
|
Stickman |
Intermediate | 1.2 km |
|
The Load |
Intermediate | 0.1 km |
|
B.L.T. |
Advanced |
2.6 km |
|
Grilled Chez |
Intermediate | 0.5km |
|
Scotty's |
Advanced | 3.3 km |
|
Pretzel Logic |
Advanced | 0.4 km |
|
Vlad the Impaler |
Advanced | 0.5 km |
|
Cinnamon Girl |
Advanced | 1.4 km |
|
Three Pigs |
Easy | 1.4 km |
|
Head banger Hook-up |
Intermediate | 0.5 km |
|
Gun Barrel |
Easy | 0.8 km |
|
Wiley's Wood |
Intermediate | 0.9 km |
|
Blood Donor |
Easy | 1.5 km |
|
Club Ped |
Easy | 0.7 km |
|
Demon Seed |
Advanced | 1.5 km |
|
98 Connector |
Easy | 0.4 km |
|
Lady Killer |
Varied | 19.0 km |
Frog Lake Trails
Easy to intermediate trails along very old railway grades and logging roads.
Trail Name Length
-
Old Rail Grade Trail 4.2 km
An historical rail grade, trailhead located north of Elmer Lake on the Frog Lake Road.
-
Lookout Loop 3.2 km
Begins from the Frog Lake road, climbs up and over rocky outcrops, and then down through forest and wetlands, joins with the Old Rail Trail, a vigorous ride.
-
Enchanted Forest 4.3 km
Through lush forest and along rough gravel roads, it is recommended that this circle route be done in a clockwise direction.
-
Riley Lake Connector 2.6 km
Forest trail and old rail grade that connects the Enchanted Forest with the Lost Lake trail.
-
Head banger Hookup 0.5 km
Intermediate downhill alternative for traveling east.
Lost Lake Trails
Easy to intermediate cycling and hiking trails along old railway grades.
Trail Name Length
-
Lost Lake Trail 5.5 km
An easy loop with picnic tables at the south end of the lake, short hike to rocky viewpoint provides a break from the saddle; west side of loop is intermediate level.
-
Mudhoney Pass 3.0 km
Intermediate to advanced single-track through patches of rock, salal, and Douglas fir forests.
-
The Lost Frog 8.2 km
Almost continuous rail grade, with a few rougher connectors, access is via the north end of Devlin Road or Frog Lake Road.
-
Frog Lake Road 5.7 km
Optional link between the Frog Lake and Lost Lake trail systems, generally easy riding except for Cardiac Hill (sustained up hill).
Storie Creek Trail
Access: 5 kilometers south of Hilchey Road in Willow Point off Highway 19A. Turn west on Seawave Road, then immediately south on Dillman Road, then west on Storie Road.
Distance/Time: 1.5 kilometers - Approximately 35 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Condition: Good
This trail encompasses a fine example of a-neighborhood greenways, with protection in place for this important small salmon bearing stream. It is worthwhile to continue on past the beaten path toward Storie Creek Golf Course, although the trail becomes un maintained, rough and there are plenty of hazards.
The closer you venture towards the golf course the more abundant and formidable the beaver dams become. There are multiple indications of beaver habitation all along the trail; I counted 9 well constructed dams the last time I was out there.
Strathcona Provincial Park Trails
Access: Varied
Distance/Time: Varied
Difficulty: From moderate to extreme
Condition: Check condition of individual trails
The Strathcona Park Trail networks are as extensive and diverse as the park is large, with over 250,000 hectares of extreme wilderness at your disposal. The difficulty ratings for the numerous trails range from very easy short loops to extreme multi-day technical mountaineering adventures. This rugged wilderness area encompasses pristine glaciers, ice-burg encrusted lakes, snowfields, alpine tarns, rivers and a myriad of valleys and rugged mountain peaks. This jewel of the Province is truly a wonder in which ones imagination is stimulated in its entirety.
The trails described in this section are well defined and have improved walking surfaces. Distances, elevation changes and hiking times for one-way trips are approximate. Please keep to designated trails, as short cutting and braiding to trail sides is unsafe, causes damage to plant life and can lead to erosion of soil and trails.
In addition to these hiking trails there are a number of non-maintained cross-country routes. These routes are not signed or defined in any way and should be attempted only by experienced, well-equipped hikers familiar with orienteering.
The rugged wilderness areas, glaciers, snowfields and mountains of Strathcona Park require that visitors who wish to venture off maintained trails and away from developed areas be entirely self sufficient, properly equipped and experienced.
Persons contemplating an extended or overnight hike should inform a responsible person or agency of their intention. This information should include estimated departure and return times.
The cities of Campbell River and Courtenay are the primary access point to Strathcona Park. Highway 28, which connects Campbell River with Gold River on the west coast of Vancouver Island, passes through the northern section of the park and provides access to Buttle Lake, 48 km west of Campbell River. Motor fuels are not available between Campbell River and Gold River so gas up before you leave Campbell River.
Note:
-
Camp Fires are not permitted in undesignated areas both inside and outside all Provincial Parks.
-
All trails in Strathcona Provincial Park and Elk Falls Provincial Park are closed to mountain bikes, motor craft and horses.
-
Provincial Campfire bans Do apply to provincial parks
From the Buttle Lake
Elk River Trail
Length: 11 kilometers
Distance/Time: 9 hours return 
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 600 meters
The trail begins at Highway 28 and follows the Elk River Valley for 10 km up to Landslide Lake. Caution – bare rock sections. This fabulous trail follows the line of the Elk River to its headwaters at the base of Mt Colonel Foster, with views of Elkhorn Mountain and Rambler Mountain along the way. Following the valley bottom through old growth forest, to the open steps of the upper reaches of the valley to Landslide Lake, continue on another hour on an undefined trail to the south (or left) side of Landslide Lake and you are at one of the wonders of Vancouver Island; Iceberg Lake which comprises the cirque of Mt Colonel Foster. Yes here on the 50th parallel we have a lake full of icebergs year round.
Crest Mountain
Length: 5 kilometers
Distance/Time: 7 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevations Gain: 1,250 meters
The trail starts at Highway 28, excellent scenic views above 1,200 meters. Caution is required on single log crossing, expect steep slopes. Crest Mountain has the reputation of being a real grunt, a great trail if you want to get into shape. This sustained up-hill mid forth class climb on occasion requires the use of your hands. The trail is switch backed all the way up to the summit. Once you have gained the summit you see it is comprised of an open alpine meadow with a couple large tarns, and the view is definitely is worth the climb. This is one of the best places to get a bird’s eye view of Kings Peak, Queens Peak and Camel Ridge.
Marble Meadows
Length: 6.6 kilometers
Distance/Time: 10 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevations Gain: 1,250 meters
The trail starts at Phillips Creek marine campsite on Buttle Lake. Access the trailhead by boat from Auger Point or Karst Creek day use areas, Marble Meadows features viewpoints, alpine meadows and incredible limestone formations.
Paddle across the Lake to the estuary of Wolf Creek; watch the time of day on this because the wind tends to come up on Buttle Lake consistently every afternoon, so extreme caution is to be exercised. The trail is a sustained up-hill grunt, beginning in old growth forest and proceeding well into the alpine, with switch backs the whole way and no respite. The reward is granted when you ascend the ridge. The white marble veins are deposited in every direction. The ridge consists of a series of mounds, with some high alpine forests and meadows so be prepared to gain and lose elevation a few times before you find the cabin that is situated on the northern section of the ridge.
It is our suggestion that you take more than one day for this trip. The view from the crest of the ridge is of some of the most inaccessible west coast wilderness on Vancouver Island. The white marble fissures present a stunning foreground with a contrast between the deep green alpine cypress and the varied shades of alpine flowers; this bestows marble meadows with a truly magical sensitivity.
Phillips Ridge
Length: 6.6 kilometers
Distance/Time: 7 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 800 meters
This well graded trail starts from the gravel access road just past NVI Mine and leads to Arnica Lake, then to the summit of Phillips Peak. A great day hike, especially for beginner mountaineers this trail also bodes well for a back country ski trip, although it takes a fair amount of time to gain a view. The ridge itself goes on and on with great views of the Golden Hinde (the tallest mountain on Vancouver Island) to the west and Buttle Lake to the east. If you are ambitious you can amble all the way to Phillips Mountain, but make sure you have plenty of time.
Flower Ridge
Length: 6 kilometers
Distance/Time: 9 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 1,250 meters
Trail starts on Buttle Lake Road. Caution – trail steep and rough to open alpine ridge. Water can be scarce. Features: open hiking on ridge and viewpoints. Flower ridge offers a preamble through some wonderful old growth forest, before you gain the ridge.
About half way up to the alpine, a freak anomaly transpired a number of years ago. While on a training mission for an expedition into the coast range a friend and I came across a blow-down, upon our first approach, the blow-down did not look like a big deal, so we climbed over the first few trees, to gain access to the trail once again, keeping in mind that this is old growth timber and these trees were huge, so it took some time to find a way to climb over them.
An hour later we had not gotten very far, but were in a position to see just how big the blow-down was. Evidently there had been a freak wind storm that took down at least 100 old growth trees in this one small area. I say small but it encompassed acres and acres on the steep step of ridge. These trees that were 500 to 1000 years old were laid down like pixie sticks one on top of another, amazing devastation. I can’t even imagine what it took for BC Parks to carve the trail back out of that mess and how strong those winds must have been to cause such devastation.
Once you gain the ridge you can travel for a few hours to the end, where you reap a view of Mount Septimus, all the while you realize there is a reason they call it Flower Ridge, alpine flowers of all variety are everywhere, in almost every season. Keep in mind that there is no water on Flower Ridge, so be prepared to carry all your water in.
Upper Myra Falls
Length: 3 kilometers
Distance/Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 100 meters
Trail starts just past NVI Mine and follows the gravel road for 700 meters before turning into a forest trail, to the right hand side of the road (a well marked entrance). Features: old growth forest and a gorgeous waterfall. This is a fantastic day hike for the whole family. It is not too long and it meanders through some of the most beautiful old growth west coast rain forest. Throughout the trail you can hear but not see the ramblings of Myra Creek to your left, until you meet with a beautiful set of falls at the end of the trail.
Bedwell Lake
Length: 6 kilometers
Distance/Time: 7 hours
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 600 meters
Trail starts from Jim Mitchell Lake Road. Note camping in designated areas only, Features: viewpoints, with routes to Cream Lake, Bedwell Sound and Mt Big Interior. The route to Mt Septimus also departs from this trail, but cannot be seen from Bedwell Lake.
The trail slowly gains elevation, the views from the valley bottoms through the old growth forests are as diverse and every changing as they are delightful. With creek crossings, small ridges, steep steps and vistas in every direction. Once you come across Baby Bedwell Lake the topography dramatically changes, it opens up and Mt Tom Taylor comes into view. At this point you gain an appreciation to just how rugged and big Strathcona Park really is. Carry on to Big Bedwell and you are cradled between, Mount Big Interior, Tom Taylor and Mt Septimus, an awe inspiring spectacle.
Price Creek/Cream Lake
Length: 8.5 kilometers
Distance/Time: 12 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 1,200 meters
Trail starts from the south end of Buttle Lake, following a gravel road for the first 3 km. A rough trail follows the main valley another 7.3 kilometers where it crosses Price Creek and deteriorates into a very steep, rough route to Cream Lake.
This is the route that most people brag about surviving, rough, sustained uphill, overgrown and somewhat undeveloped.
Tennant Lake/Mount Myra
Length: 7 kilometers
Distance/Time: 5 hours or 9 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 1,500 meters
Trail starts at the NVI Mine site visitor parking lot at the west end of the mine site to follow a very steep, washed out road bed to Tennant Lake. A well marked route exists from Tennant Lake to Mt. Myra.
At the beginning of the trail, the road is well maintained and reasonably flat, as you cross the bridge over Myra Creek you see a marked deterioration the condition of the road and it just goes from bad to worse, and the route also becomes much steeper.
In days gone by the road was built to facilitate the building of the dam on Tennant Lake for the mine, however; there has been no reason since then
to maintain it, so it has been left to nature and the elements. What is now left is a somewhat cleared path strewn with big boulders, so you are literally climbing or jumping uphill from one boulder to the next for a very long way. Keep in mind that when there is water running, it usually is running directly down the middle of what is called the trail.
Once you finally accomplish Tenant Lake the route is a lot more pleasant. First you meander through alpine meadows, than gain some elevation through a series of steps to the ridge. Once you have gained the ridge you get a view of the interior mountains of Strathcona Park, the beauty of Mount Myra is that the view stays with you for much of the ridge walk to the summit.
You can also access Mt Thelwood from Tennant Lake.
Short Trails of Strathcona Provincial Park
From Buttle Lake
Lady Falls Trail
Length: 900 meters
Distance/Time: 35 minutes. Trail starts at Highway 28 (viewing platform.)
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
Elk River Viewpoint
Length: 400 meters
Distance/Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
Trail starts at Highway 28 and accesses a viewing platform. Watch for and learn about Roosevelt elk.
Lupin Falls
Length: 800 meters
Distance/Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
This is a short, circular walk through a cool forest featuring, in season, Indian pipe and candy stick.
Auger Point
A five minute loop through a forest fire devastated area providing views of nature reclaiming the burned over landscape.
Karst Creek
Length: 2 kilometers
Distance/Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
Trail passes by a limestone wonderland including sinkholes, disappearing streams and beautiful waterfalls.
Shepard Creek
Length: 2 kilometers
Distance/Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
Trail begins near Ralph River campground and travels through a virgin watershed with minimal elevation change.
Lower Myra Falls
Length: 1 kilometer
Distance/Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
Please exercise CAUTION when visiting the falls. The rocks can be slippery even when it has not rained. The trail starts near the south end of Buttle Lake and includes a steep hill with loose rock, views of several spectacular cascades.
Trails From Paradise Meadows
Paradise Meadows Loop Trail
Length: 2.2 kilometers
Distance/Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
An easy walk through sub-alpine meadows on a well-developed trail. Much of this trial is through the flats and is board walked. Please stay on the boardwalk as this Alpine marsh can be tricky to navigate and is comprised of a very delicate eco-system.
Helen McKenzie/Battleship Lake Loop
Length: 8 kilometers
Distance/Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 70 meters
An easy hike on well developed trails through a mixture of sub-alpine meadows and forest, with impressive views of Mount Washington, Wood Mountain and Mount Albert Edward.
Helen McKenzie/Kwai Lake/Croteau Lake Loop
Length: 9.5 kilometers
Distance/Time: 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 270 meters
From Lake Helen McKenzie the trail follows forested slopes over rougher terrain before rising to a rolling sub alpine zone. The Hairtrigger Lake region provides spectacular mountain views, with designated camping available at Circlet Lake.
Carry, boil or filter your own water and please stay on designated trails.
Helen McKenzie/Circlet Lake
Length: 9.5 kilometers
Distance/Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Condition: Good
Elevation Gain: 270 meters
From Lake Helen McKenzie the trail follows forested slopes over rougher terrain before rising to a rolling sub-alpine area. The Hairtrigger Lake area provides spectacular mountain views.
Trails From Forbidden Plateau
Mount Beacher
Length: 9 kilometers
Distance/Time: 4 to 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Condition: Good
Elevations Gain: 1385 meters (Drive to 600 meters)
The Mt Beacher trail is one of my favorite choices for a good day hike. The trails are well defined, even in the winter; the uphill meander offers views almost immediately.
Follows the old ski-hill trails to the right, which lead to the bottom of the defunct rope tow, about 1.5 kilometers uphill. The trail head is clearly marked to the west of the rope tow and begins to work its way through the alpine forest towards the west. The return trip is about 9 kilometers and we have hiked it in boots, runners, snowshoes and skies. During the winter months and immediately after a fresh snowfall, there is one slope that is susceptible to avalanche so be cautious. You will know when you see it.
Twin Lakes Portage Trail
Access: 27.2 kilometers north from Campbell River on Highway 19
Distance/Time: 1.4 kilometers – 1 hour return
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Fair
Located 27 km north of Campbell River on Highway 19, the turn off to Twin Lakes is across from a small sawmill and is well marked with a Forest Service’s access sign.
The trailhead starts at the Twin Lake campsite which is 4.4 kilometers from the highway down the gravel forestry access road. The trail splits in two directions. One travels east along Twin Lake and the other west to Amor Lake. These short trails are approximately 1.5 kilometers long combined. The portage trail from Amor Lake to Twin Lake was made a part of the Sayward Forest Canoe Route that joins Brewster, Campbell and Mohun Lakes. As with most forestry trails, this one is in good condition however; it is recommended that you check with the BC Forest Service for updates on trail conditions.
Tyee Spit
Access: 1 kilometer south of the Tamarac Street intersection on Highway 19A. Turn east on Spit Road and follow the road to the Ocean, the trail is located in Dick Murphy Park.
Distance/Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Wheel Chair accessible
Condition: Paved
Situated in Dick Murphy Park this small network is a circle route of the Tyee Spit, at the confluence of Campbell River and the Discovery Passage.
It features a children’s playground, a bird blind, a boat launch, picnic tables, numerous benches, an excellent viewpoint of the Discovery Passage, bathrooms and beach access on three sides.
Upper Canyon View/Elk Falls Provincial Park
Access: 7 kilometers northwest of Campbell River towards Gold River on Highway 28.
Distance/Time: 2 kilometers one way – 45 minutes round trip.
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Condition: Good
Seven kilometers north west of Campbell River just off Highway 28, drive to the top of General Hill, turn right at Loveland Lake Road which is well signed and follow the signs to Elk Falls Provincial Park. You will cross a bridge that has three large wooden waterways beneath it, proceed down the steep hill to the parking lot. Take heed on this road as it is very narrow, very steep and does not have good visibility.
There are two parking lots for this network of trails. The one at the bottom of the hill gives you a direct view of Elk Falls. This 50 meter waterfall is the reason the Campbell River does not have a run of Sockeye. Sockeye must have a fresh water lake system to rear their young in and the Campbell River has so many waterfalls on it that for a salmon to jump the 50 meters to traverse the falls would be impossible.
The view does not stop there. You can walk down to the falls for a closer look; this will take about 15 to 20 minutes done a steep well trodden path. Or if you have more time, explore the other trails that go off to the left and discover a series of breathtaking swimming holes and waterfalls right up to John Hart Dam. The one aspect of this protected area that always surprises people is the abundance of old growth timber so close to town. Many Douglas fir trees have stood over the river for almost 1000 years, a wonder to behold.
The trail follows the Campbell River through a series of six falls from Moose Falls to Elk Falls.
In 1938 a forest fire that raged to the north and west of Campbell River, burnt a large area of the forest. Luckily the trees of Elk Falls Park survived this massive devastation. If you have a good half-day to spend; from the parking lot, when facing the falls turn right on the well marked Millennium trail that meanders down the hill to link up to the Canyon View Trail. This route has become quite popular for runners as it challenges even the fittest to run back up the hill.
Willow Creek Trail
Access: Just south of the Commercial District at Willow Point turn west on Erickson Road from Highway 19A, travel 1.5 kilometers up Erickson to Martin Road. Turn south (left) on Martin Road, the well marked trailhead is .2 kilometers up Martin Road.
Distance/Time: 3.4 kilometers – 1.5 hours return
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Generally good, some damage where the creek has undercut the trail.
Located 7.2 miles from the downtown core, this trail was originally developed by the Second Century Fund of British Columbia. As with many trails in the Campbell River area, the trail follows an active salmon spawning tributary. The trail starts at the parking lot and follows downhill to the creek, extending west towards Martin Road then crosses the creek.
There are a number of smaller branches from the main trail that take you in a circle route. There are a several bridges on the trail over creeks that can be dry in the summer and flooding their banks in the winter. This trail has had a great deal of attention and upgrades in the past few years so it is in excellent condition, it shows a good view of a 2nd growth forest in its infancy and some very interesting flora and fauna.
Willow Point Park Trails
Access: North end of Willow Point Park or from Rockland Road
Distance/Time: 1.2 kilometers or 30 minutes return
Difficulty: Mostly wheel chair accessible
Condition: Good
Willow Point Park is situated 7.5 kilometers south of the downtown core of Campbell River bordering Penfield Road and South Alder Street. There are a number of short trails that surround the playing fields and extend to South Alder Street. One popular trail connects with this network and proceeds to the beaver dams in the Beaver Lodge Lands to Rockland Road.
Woodhus Slough
Access: Located midway between Courtenay and Campbell River, about 1.5 kilometers north of the Miracle Beach Provincial Park turnoff. From Highway 19A turn onto the Salmon Point Road and continue to the end of the road to the Salmon Point Pub, the trail sign is on the right hand side of the Pub by the beach.
Distance/Time: 2 kilometers – 35 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy
Condition: Good
At the beginning of the trail you go through two openings in a fenced off section, on an open flat area. The slough is located an easy 10 minute walk from this end of the trail. You can continue 2 kilometers along the shoreline habitats to the end of the trail which connects with the Oyster River Estuary and proceeds onto the Fisherman’s Pub and Glenmore Road.
Woodhus Slough is located about 2 km north of the Oyster River along the ocean shoreline that contains slough, marsh, farm field, sandy beach and gravel habitats. A number of rare plants are found there. Almost 200 bird species have been recorded in the slough region.
Viewing highlights during the summer months, include the secretive Virginia rail and sora and red-winged blackbird are easily spotted in the cattails. The open and shrub areas along the trail are frequented by song sparrow, house fin, American gold finch, brewer’s blackbird, swainson’s thrush and cedar waxwing.
At the sough; look for belted kingfisher, great blue heron, beaver, muskrat and Pacific tree-frog. In the winter months expect to see a number of the magnificent trumpeter swans.
