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Vanislander / Landmarks / Ranges / Kings Peak

Kings Peak on Vancouver Island

Kings Peak is a mountain peak that stands guard high in the Strathcona Provincial Park on central Vancouver Island. It is a double-peaked glacial mountain at 2065m (6775 ft.). The eastern peak is the higher one called Kings Peak, and the western one is Queen's Ridge. A demanding trail makes it to the summit of Kings Peak, offering scenic views. The trail starts at 304.8 m (1000 ft.), climbing 1737 m (5700 ft.) over scree fields, tree roots, undulating hills, gullies, and meadows. The first and lower portions of the trail are well-maintained gives the chance to warm up. It passes a couple of waterfalls and gorgeous streams where you can take a breather.

Kings Peak Location

Kings Peak (2065m), in Strathcona Park near Vancouver Island's center, was first climbed in 1913-14. It's south of Elk River, north of Golden Hinde, west of Upper Campbell Lake, northwest of Buttle Lake. Elk River Trail (21 km) west of Kings Peak offers scenic views, campsites, and old-growth forests, ending at Landslide Lake (camping prohibited).

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History of Kings Peak

 Kings Peak's first ascent was taken place in 1913 or 1914. The mountain was named after James and Michael King, who were 19th explorers leading an expedition into the region before 1910. Kings Peak and Strathcona Provincial Park and nearby areas, are home to the traditional territory of the Muchalaht and Mowachaht people of the Nuu-chah-nulth first nation. The culture and legends of these people are rooted in the lakes and mountains throughout the area.

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why Kings Peak on Vancouver Island

Kings Peak, ideal for multi-day backpacking due to its meadow and water source (Highway 28 access, rough road), offers stunning views of Elkhorn and Colonel Foster from its summit, with the Golden Hinde 15 km south. Strathcona Park's undeveloped nature (no toilets) allows for strenuous day hikes or longer trips. Expect abundant wildlife sightings, including wolves, bears, elk, deer, cougars, marmots, and diverse birdlife like jays, chickadees, grouse, and wrens, within old-growth fir, hemlock, and cedar forests.

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Vancouver Island Activities near Kings Peak

Nootka Sound Kayaking and Canoeing

Nootka Sound Kayaking and Canoeing

If paddling is frightening for you, make it normal while you are in Nootka Sound. It s worthy of mentioning that while paddling in the waters of Nootka Sound, you are given the pleasure of observing the birth point of BC, Yuquot. Nootka Sound is known as the paradise of the paddlers, and its island provides an extraordinary situation in which an astonishing adventure is waiting to be embraced.

Camping in the Strathcona Provincial Park Campground

Camping in the Strathcona Provincial Park Campground

As the oldest provincial park on the island, Strathcona Provincial Park Campground will be a memorable wilderness adventure. Every day you spend on this beautiful campground is a different new day, for you can experience any adventure and never get sick of it. As a hot spot for camping, you are given a chance to choose the setting of your campsite.

Camping in Croteau Lake Campsite

Camping in Croteau Lake Campsite

The Croteau Lake Campsite is the first backcountry group site accepting reservations, Located within Strathcona Provincial Park in Forbidden Platea. You will have to hike into this lovely remote campground which features a brand new yurt. Nestled in the sub-alpine of Strathcona, Croteau Lake Campsite is surrounded by jagging glacial mountain peaks, and you will experience a sense of peace and seclusion.

Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park Kayaking and Canoeing

Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park Kayaking and Canoeing

To be a storyteller of paddling adventures, do not leave out Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park. This stunning historical park leaves you speechless about its undeniable opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park is known for its coastal forests and marine ecosystems, in which you are provided with several unique outdoor activities.

Camping in Ralph River Campground

Camping in Ralph River Campground

Camping in Ralph River Campground offers a bit more comfortable experience of exploring the park. It's adjacent to Buttle Lake, with numerous campsites all along the glorious shoreline of it. It is where you will feel a sense of being in the wilderness with beautiful sights and spectacular views from several sites over the valleys.

Camping in Bedwell Lake Campground

Camping in Bedwell Lake Campground

Known as the base camp to explore the area, Bedwell Lake Campground comprises excellent tent campsites. There you can climb surrounding mountains and hike gorgeous, well-maintained trails. Bedwell Lake Campground would be excellent for backcountry adventures. It has lovely glacial mountain views.

Gold River Kayaking and Canoeing

Gold River Kayaking and Canoeing

Gold River is an excellent destination for paddling by all means. There are ample reasons which can trigger you to go kayaking and canoeing in this river. Its crystal clear water allows you sea the beauties lied underneath the surface. Besides, kayakers and canoeists can have fun doing other activities along with paddling in the water.

Camping in Baby Bedwell Lake Campground

Camping in Baby Bedwell Lake Campground

Located in the Strathcona Provincial Park near Bedwell Lake, camping is possible in a nice backcountry campground on Baby Bedwell Lake, set in the lush forest surrounded by majestic mountains. Beautiful alpine forest, perfect swimming, breathtaking view of the trail, small ponds and lakes surrounded by glacial mountain peaks are some of the area's attractions. They are enough to fascinate visitors and campers.

Camping in Buttle Lake Campground

Camping in Buttle Lake Campground

Home to many campsites with all kinds of facilities and services right on the shoreline, Buttle Lake campground offers you the best opportunities to explore the shore. There you can do a lot of activities and enjoy seeing marine creatures.
Annually, the campground welcomes RV and vehicle campers. Also, you can have a good time camping in your tents.

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

As one of the highest points of Vancouver Island, Mount Adrian offers great snowmobiling, among other winter activities. It has two summits that feature Strathcona Provincial Park in every direction—looking for a place to have winter excitement? Nowhere is better than Mount Adrian.

additional information about Kings Peak

Campsite : Buttle Lake Campground, at the junction of Buttle Lake and Upper Campbell Lake, 15 km (9.3 miles) south-east of Kings Peak /
Ralph River Campground, south of and along Buttle Lake, 30 km (18.6 miles) south of Kings Peak
Tent site :Buttle Lake Campground, at the junction of Buttle Lake and Upper Campbell Lake, 15 km (9.3 miles) south-east of Kings Peak / Ralph River Campground, south of and along Buttle Lake, 30 km (18.6 miles) south of Kings Peak
RV site:Buttle Lake Campground, at the junction of Buttle Lake and Upper Campbell Lake, 15 km (9.3 miles) south-east of Kings Peak / Ralph River Campground, south of and along Buttle Lake, 30 km (18.6 miles) south of Kings Peak

Things to do around Kings Peak

Visit Kings Peak Mountain and experience a unique alpine journey on central Vancouver Island. The mountain sits west of Buttle Lake and south of the Elk River and the areas around are marked with several lakes and watersheds. Enthusiasts will have lots of outdoor opportunities in the nearby areas visiting Kings Peak. You can portage between watersheds or spend a whole afternoon paddling in the calm waters of the lakes and hike the trails that take you through the beautiful forests around gorgeous waterfalls and streams. Fishing is one of the most popular activities, especially in Buttle Lake as the Strathcona Provincial Park main body of water. Taking in the beauty of nature garnished by gnarled old-growth trees, birds, and creatures induces a sense of freshness. Also, there are opportunities for caving at White Ridge Provincial Park for its extensive cave system. Visit Kings Peak Mountain and experience a unique alpine journey on central Vancouver Island. The mountain sits west of Buttle Lake and south of the Elk River and the areas around are marked with several lakes and watersheds. Enthusiasts will have lots of outdoor opportunities in the nearby areas visiting Kings Peak. You can portage between watersheds or spend a whole afternoon paddling in the calm waters of the lakes and hike the trails that take you through the beautiful forests around gorgeous waterfalls and streams. Fishing is one of the most popular activities, especially in Buttle Lake as the Strathcona Provincial Park main body of water. Taking in the beauty of nature garnished by gnarled old-growth trees, birds, and creatures induces a sense of freshness. Also, there are opportunities for caving at White Ridge Provincial Park for its extensive cave system.

Climbing

 Climbing Kings Peak, which stands guard high within Strathcona Provincial Park, is a unique experience. Atop the mountain, you will enjoy the dramatic views of surrounding mountains and undulating hills makes the effort to the summit worthy.

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Hiking

 The trails around Kings Peak offer unique chances for hiking. The Kings Peak trail and Elk River Trail are two beautiful trails with steep grades having superb scenes of surroundings. The trails pass around crystal mountain streams and are ornamented by lovely wildlife creatures and birds.

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Canoeing & Kayaking

 The turquoise waters of Upper Campbell Lake and Buttle Lake calls for taking your kayaks and canoes and paddle through the pleasant atmosphere of the lakes. Be alert for the possibility of hazardous winds.

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Skiing & Boarding

Backcountry skiing and boarding chances exist in Strathcona Provincial Park. Also, Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a favourite destination for skiers and boarders, boasting one of the highest snowfalls with full facilities on the opposite side of Kings Peak across Buttle Lake. Rentals are available at Mount Washington Alpine Resort and outlets in Campbell River and Comox.

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Swimming

Swimmers can take a dip in the cold waters of the lakes strewn in the Strathcona Provincial Park. There isn’t any lifeguard on duty.

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Camping

 Making your way toward the Kings Peak summit, you will have a perfect spot that offers camping if you choose to continue your trip at a slower pace. Also, at the nearby areas of Kings Peak and Strathcona Provincial Park, developed full facility and undeveloped campsites are provided for camping.

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What you Can Expect to See Near Kings Peak

Kings Peak

Kings Peak

Kings Peak is a mountain peak that stands guard high in the Strathcona Provincial Park on central Vancouver Island. It is a double-peaked glacial mountain at 2065m (6775 ft.). The eastern peak is the higher one called Kings Peak, and the western one is Queen's Ridge. A demanding trail makes it to the summit of Kings Peak, offering scenic views. The trail starts at 304.8 m (1000 ft.), climbing 1737 m (5700 ft.) over scree fields, tree roots, undulating hills, gullies, and meadows. The first and lower portions of the trail are well-maintained gives the chance to warm up. It passes a couple of waterfalls and gorgeous streams where you can take a breather.

Buttle Lake

Buttle Lake

Are you struggling with spending a ton of time searching for the best family-friendly vacation? Then you need to visit Buttle Lake and get better results camping around it. Learn how Buttle Lake gives you an unfair advantage with camping, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park on Vancouver Island.

Mount McBride

Mount McBride

Mount McBride with 2083 m (6834 ft.) height is the seventh highest mountain on Central Vancouver Island. Atop Mount McBride, the 360° panoramic view of Strathcona Provincial Park is rewarding, besides vistas of the highest mountains on Vancouver Island, including Golden Hinde, Mt Colonel Foster, King's Peak, Elkhorn Mountain, and Rambler Peak.

Elkhorn Mountain

Elkhorn Mountain

Elkhorn Mountain is located in the Elk River Mountains of the Vancouver Island Ranges. It is the second-highest peak on Vancouver Island at 2194 m (7198 ft.) elevation. Atop of the Elkhorn Mountain, the commanding views of mountain peaks surrounding overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Georgia are rewarding, as well as splendid Strathcona Provincial Park.

Upana Caves

Upana Caves

Going deep into the forest is worthy enough to visit the stunning Upana Caves. Listen to the sound of a river passing by and detect several entrances with the famous one behind the spectacular Upana Caves Waterfall. Inside entrances, you may find birds' nests. Watch the evidence of years of existence by holes like the one in cheese. The stunning galleries and passages you'll explore while going down would be incredible.

Pierce Range

Pierce Range

The Pierce Range is small and steep-sided in the center of Vancouver Island. Hikers can pass through trees covering steep hills packed with bountiful wildlife and colourful birds winding around lakes and tarns along creeks and rivers. Up at the peaks, the scenery is surrounded by mountains. Spectacular views overlooking the Muchalat channel and Victor Island is inspiring.

Elk River Mountains

Elk River Mountains

The Elk River Mountains is a group of rugged mountains in Strathcona Provincial Park suitable for camping and outdoor activities. Elkhorn Mountain is the highest peak of the mountains and the second-highest peak on Vancouver Island. It is an extraordinary destination for professional and amateur climbers; the difficulty is from simple to somehow challenge slopes.

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park is a large mountainous natural park and the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Excellent hiking trails, coastal areas, lakes, creeks, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife made this park a perfect destination for adventurous travellers. Summers are usually pleasantly warm, and winters are almost mild except for the higher levels. So, it is a great place to recharge.

Lupin Falls

Lupin Falls

Words cannot describe Lupin Falls because this waterfall's beauty is beyond the world of vocabulary. The water pours gracefully on rocks and carving its way into the hard rock cliff. A forest surrounds the two drops of Lupin Falls and adds to its wonders. Visiting Lupin Falls is a big bonus as it is placed in Strathcona Provincial Park with a lot to offer.

Lady Falls

Lady Falls

Find peace at the bottom of a waterfall where there will be the magic of nature all around you. Lady Falls is a rare sight of beauty and grace. The crystal clear water runs through a lush forest, reaches a rock cliff surrounded by trees, and pours down into a canyon. From afar, it feels like the water is cascading from the trees. The combination is enough for cleansing the mind, soothing the soul, and being there for hours.

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

In the south end of Buttle Lake at Strathcona Provincial Park, you can find Myra Falls (or Lower Myra Falls), a Jewel of natural wonders. This seven-drop waterfall is beautiful all year round, and it feels like you're in a land of fantasy. The tremendous view of the place and shades of green and blue of the pool under the falls make a great scene perfect for photography.

Best Time to Visit Kings Peak

Planning your hike on Vancouver Island's requires careful consideration of seasonal conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Below is a detailed overview of the optimal times to visit, along with key factors to consider:

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Variable; cooler temperatures with increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for wet conditions.

June

Mild temperatures; moderate rainfall.

Trail open; most campsites operational.

Increasing number of hikers; moderate weather.

July

Warmer temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

August

Warm temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

September

Cooling temperatures; increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for variable weather.

Most Frequent questions about Kings Peak on Vancouver island

Depending on the difficulty and remoteness of the Kings Peak hike, specific gear might be necessary, such as sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), and adequate food and water. Check trail descriptions and park regulations for any required permits or safety
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Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

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