Known as a relatively difficult hiking trail with an elevation gain of 510 m (1673.2 ft), Century Sam Lake is a moderately trafficked out and back trail near Comox Valley, Vancouver Island. The main trail is extended for 8.7 km (5.4 miles) with eye-catching views of Century Sam Lake and wonderful nature and wildlife observation opportunities.
Having some steep sections which may be full of ice during winters, the hike to Century Sam Lake
is recommended for more experienced hikers, mostly during winters. This ice-covered or muddy hiking trail is enriched with stunning views of Century Sam Lake and is fairly suitable for camping.
The Hike to Century Sam Lake starts at Century Sam trailhead southwest of Cumberland and Comox Lake. There is no parking lot nearby. If you don't have a 4x4 vehicle, you can park your car earlier down the trail, about 2 km (1.2 miles) away from the trailhead. While approaching the trailhead from upstream, there is a fun log crossing where the trail splits. Taking the right fork to Century Sam leads to big timber and multiple rock slides. Taking the left fork leads to the longer Comox Glacier Hike.
It is expected to reach the lake in between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, and the actual trailhead to the lake is about 4 km (2.48 miles). There is also a hidden trail along the edge of the lake, taking you through beautiful wildflowers and to the ice caves on the other side. So hikers should be cautious about the snow melting and its risks. It is not recommend for kids.
From Nanaimo:
Getting to Century Sam trailhead from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N. It is 137 km (85.1 miles) and takes about two hours.
Take Third St to BC-19 N for 3.3 km (2 miles). Follow BC-19 N. Take exit 117 from BC-19 N and drive 99 km (61.5 miles). Take Bevan Rd and Comox Logging Rd to your destination, and after 34.9 km (21.6 miles), you will reach Century Sam trailhead.
From Victoria:
The fastest route from Victoria to Century Sam trailhead is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. It is 248 km (154.1 miles) and takes about 3 hours and a half.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. Take exit 117 from BC-19 N and drive 211 km (131.1 miles). Take Bevan Rd and Comox Logging Rd to your destination, and after 34.9 km (21.6 miles), you will reach Century Sam trailhead.