Looking to add some new hikes to your summer plans? Look no further than these hand-picked gems
Photo by Jamie Hellard.
In January of 2023, my New Year’s resolution was to complete 52 hikes in a year. I ended up completing over 125 hikes, many of them on Vancouver Island. As summer approaches and you begin to plan your season of adventure, consider these recommendations — all located right here in your backyard!
Century Sam
Distance: 6.6 kilometers
Location: Strathcona Park
Difficulty Rating: Difficult
This hike is hands down one of the best little hidden gems on Vancouver Island. For much of this hike you will follow a relatively well traveled footpath that winds through dense forest. The view from the summit is otherworldly! You will find yourself in a bowl-like valley with a turquoise blue glacial lake in the middle. Take a few moments to go for a dip in the freezing waters or wander beyond the lake and explore the snow caves before making your descent. Fair warning: if you don’t have a good four wheel drive system in your car you will need to park roughly two kilometers away from the official trailhead. This will add some distance to your journey, but it will also save your suspension!
Cowichan River Trail
Distance: 8.4 kilometers
Location: Cowichan Valley
Difficulty Rating: Moderate
This hike is always on my summer to do list because of its amazing views! This trail is not especially difficult, and it only takes about two hours to complete, but it packs a lot of beauty into a relatively short path. The trail follows the Cowichan River toward Duncan before turning around at a trestle and following the river back towards Cowichan Lake. The path is a great mixture of forest tranquility, riverside views, and rolling hills. Make sure you bring your bathing suit for a refreshing dip in the calmer sections of the river!
East Sooke Coast Trail
Distance: 12.3 kilometers
Location: East Sooke Regional Park
My Difficulty Rating: Difficult
This trail is a grind! It is also stunning and a great way to test your endurance if you are planning to attempt one of the longer coastal trails such as the Juan de Fuca or West Coast Trail. East Sooke Regional Park is a gorgeous location, and this trail captures its essence well. This trail takes roughly four hours to complete, taking you through coastal vistas, secluded coves, beaches, and dense forest environments. This trail is also known for its wildlife, both marine and terrestrial. Keep your eyes peeled, as whales and sea lions are known to frequent the area! Please note if you are planning to hike this trail from end to end two cars are needed to return from one end of the trail to the other.
Pro tips
While Vancouver Island is a haven for hiking, it is important to keep a few factors in mind. First, many trails on Vancouver Island are built in ecologically sensitive areas. This means that by venturing off of the designated trail or leaving your trash behind, you are potentially disturbing a delicate ecosystem. Always pick up after yourself and stay on marked trails.
Larger animals such as bears, cougars, and wolves are common on Vancouver Island. To protect yourself and keep these animals safe, ensure that you are aware of what to do in the case of an encounter, BC Parks has a detailed section on wildlife safety, and always carry bear spray.
Finally, many hikes on Vancouver Island take place in relatively remote locations, meaning that cell service and assistance can be hard to come by. Ensure that you are properly prepared with food, water, and first aid supplies before embarking on your hiking adventures. Happy hiking!
