Hiking
Hiking on Nootka is a journey through pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes. Trails wind through ancient forests, along rugged coastlines, and to breathtaking viewpoints, making it a paradise for hikers of all levels.
Explore lush rainforest trails under towering trees and listen to birdcalls and rushing streams. Along the way, discover hidden waterfalls, serene lakes, and secluded beaches, offering moments of tranquility in nature.
For those craving adventure, rugged coastal hikes provide stunning ocean views and dramatic cliffs. Explore sea caves, tide pools, and sandy beaches while soaking in panoramic views of the Pacific.
Encounter wildlife like bald eagles, seals, deer, and maybe even black bears or orcas. With diverse trails catering to all levels, Nootka promises an unforgettable adventure for every hiker. So, gear up and get ready to explore this stunning wilderness!
The Nootka Trail
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Nootka Trail!
This historic path winds through the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island’s west coast, offering adventurers a chance to explore stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage.
Whether hiking through lush rainforests, crossing pristine beaches, or marvelling at ancient Indigenous cultural sites, the Nootka Trail promises an immersive experience like no other.
With its moderate difficulty level and well-marked trails, the Nootka Trail is suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
Experience the amazing nature and interesting history of the Nootka Trail for an adventure you won’t ever forget!
Malaspina Lake, Head Bay Rd between Moutcha Bay and Tahsis
Discover tranquillity on this 8.4-kilometre lakeside trail, offering a moderately challenging yet rewarding experience. Spot wildlife and soak in serene moments amidst stunning scenery.
Best visited between March and October, this trail beckons nature enthusiasts seeking peaceful escapes.
Leiner River Trail, Tahsis
Explore the picturesque Leiner River Estuary Trail near Tahsis. This 2-kilometre pathway offers stunning views of Tahsis across the inlet and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Accessible from Tree to Sea Drive, it’s a perfect outdoor escape for nature enthusiasts and casual walkers.
Scout Antler Recreation Area, Gold River
Encounter five captivating trails and two serene lakes, offering over four hours of hiking bliss. Don’t miss the Antler Lake Trail Loop, winding through ancient forests and offering stunning views.
Enjoy free admission and make the most of nearby swimming and picnic areas for a memorable outdoor experience.
Map
Peppercorn Park Trail, Gold River
Set off on the picturesque Peppercorn Trail, starting from Dogwood Drive or the Muchalaht Drive bridge near the high school.
This one-kilometre pathway winds along the tranquil Gold River, offering easy strolling amid its natural beauty.
Heber River Canyon - Gold River
Explore Gold River’s 2.3-kilometer trail, a moderate challenge with a 38-minute stroll. Perfect for birdwatching or a peaceful run, it’s open year-round and offers serene views of the Heber River.
The trail is conveniently located with parking nearby.
Star Lake Recreation Site
The scenic Star Lake Trail is an 8.5-kilometer route near Burns Lake, BC. Perfect for all skill levels, it winds through forests and along the tranquil waters of Star Lake. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking along the way.
The trail is accessible from Burns Lake via Gowan Road and Boer Mountain Lookout Road.
Muchalaht Lake Recreation Area Trail
The 4.7-kilometre loop trail around Muchalat Lake in Gold River is accessible from Tsaxana and is open seasonally from Victoria Day to Labour Day Weekend. Along the route, enjoy swimming, camping, hiking, and picnicking.
Muchalat Lake offers both leisurely walks and outdoor fun in stunning natural surroundings.
Crest Mountain Trail - Strathcona Park
The Crest Mountain Trail is an exhilarating 11.4-kilometer hike in Strathcona Provincial Park, offering captivating scenery and panoramic views.
Starting from the Drum Lake parking lot off Hwy 28, this challenging trek takes about 6 hours round trip with a steep ascent of approximately 1200 meters.
Elk River Trail - Strathcona Park
Experience one of Vancouver Island’s premier hikes, the Elk River Trail to Landslide Lake. This 22-kilometer round-trip trek takes about 10 hours to complete and is perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers.
This intermediate-level trail offers an immersive outdoor adventure through the pristine wilderness of Vancouver Island.
Lady Falls Trail - Strathcona Park
Lady Falls, located 23 kilometres before Gold River on Hwy 28, is a stunning waterfall with Cervus Creek cascading over a 98-foot cliff. A short 600-meter walk from the parking lot leads to a viewing platform offering breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding mountains.
Accessible year-round, it’s an ideal stop for travellers.
Marble Meadows Trail - Strathcona Park
The Marble Meadows trail starts with a 1-kilometre crossing of Buttle Lake. It’s best to time your crossing before noon or after 5 PM to avoid strong winds. The terrain varies from gravel to loose rock, with mild exposure at higher elevations.
Expect a 5-6 hour hike to cover the 21.2-kilometre trail, offering stunning alpine views.
Upper Myra Falls Trail - Strathcona Park
Experience the Upper Myra Falls trail in Strathcona Provincial Park, offering a scenic 6-kilometre round-trip journey through ancient forests to a majestic waterfall.
Ideal for families and a moderate challenge, this well-maintained trail culminates at a lookout point with views of the picturesque horsetail waterfall.
Phillips Ridge Trail - Strathcona Park
Experience the challenging Buttle Lake to Golden Hinde hike, popular from July to October. Covering 25 km round-trip with an elevation gain of 1.2 km to 1.7 km, it offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, meadows, and lakes.
Ideal for backpacking and hiking, this trail promises rugged beauty and solitude for wilderness enthusiasts.
Tennant Lake Trail - Strathcona Park
Discover the challenging 8.4-km trail near Campbell River, BC, ideal for backpacking and hiking from May to September. Starting at Tennent Lake, the journey offers stunning views, with steep sections to Sandbag Lake, known for its breathtaking valley vistas.
Traverse a rocky ridge onward, following cairns for guidance.
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