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Vanislander / Landmarks / Ranges / Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward on Vancouver island

Mount Albert Edward is the sixth-highest mountain on Vancouver Island. It is located in the center of Vancouver Island in Strathcona Provincial Park and is one of the most easily accessible mountains. Mt Albert Edward is a popular destination among mountaineers at 2093 m (6866 ft.) elevation. It was named for Albert Edward and was first ascended in 1890 by William Ralph. The mountain is a renowned place among mountaineers for skiing and snowshoeing in winters.

why Mount Albert Edward ?

The unique profile of this magnificent mountain appears in distance atop Mount Washington, west of Raven Lodge. The mountain is a perfect way to enter the summiting world of Strathcona Provincial Park. It sits guard at the edge of Forbidden Plateau, eastern entrance of Strathcona Provincial Park. Ascending Mount Albert Edward can be a multi-day trek or a 3 to 5 hours running trip. Climbing the Mt Albert Edward well-worth it for the breathtaking views of surroundings with Strathcona Provincial Park sprawling out below, in all its glory.
The journey to Mount Albert Edward would be full of joy due to the perfect hike to get there that winds through the ancient forest. Along with an enriching adventure, mountaineers will have opportunities for seeing various wildlife creatures as Cougars, Roosevelt elks, Wolves, black-tailed deer, and beautiful birds as Red-breasted nuthatch, Chestnut-backed chickadee, Wrens, Kinglets, Band-tailed pigeon, Steller’s jay, and Gray jay, Ptarmigan, numerous Ruffled grouse, and Blue grouse.

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Explore the Mount Albert Edward

Part of the explore starts at the Mount Albert Edward Trail near Raven Lodge, where your hike begins from the parking lot. Raised wooden walkways of the first section of the trail are well-maintained, heading out to Lake Helen Mackenzie. The lake has a popular day-use area with several recreations available, including running, swimming, camping, and picnicking. At the opposite side of the Lake Helen Mackenzie, the rugged Mount Brooks and Mount Elma looms towered in distance. The trail gets less maintained and more rugged at this section from Lake Helen Mackenzie. Passing the lake and hiking up Mount Brook and Mount Elma Passage, the heaven of magnificent mountains appears, and you will get the first sight of Mount Albert Edward. This section of the Mount Albert Edward Trail inspires awe, from where the old-growth forest and dense shrubbery starts with astonishing views of mountains. Visitors can continue their journey at a slower pace by camping on Circlet Lake and Kwai Lake at designated campsites with tent pads and pit toilets.

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Mount Albert Edward Location

As the sixth-highest mountain on central Vancouver Island, Mt Albert Edward offers perfect climbing and other recreations perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Part of the journey takes place in Mount Albert Edward Trail, which would be joyful for hikers. The mountain sits at the edge of Forbidden Plateau within Strathcona Provincial Park. The area is dotted with beautiful lakes as Kwai Lake, Circlet Lake, and Lake Helen Mackenzie. The Lakes are perfect for backcountry camping through the wilderness. Visitors can also experience alpine camping by tripping to Mount Albert Edward.

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History of Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward, was named for Albert Edward and was first ascended by William Ralph. The mountain and the area of Strathcona Provincial Park are home to the traditional territory of the people of the Muchalaht and Mowachaht. The legends and culture of these people are rooted in the mountains and lakes throughout the area.

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tips for going to Mount Albert Edward

Hazards and safety :
Store foods in food caches to avoid danger of bears and wildlife. Choose the right weather for mountain climbing. Be well-equipped with the right gear and communicative device. Be cautious of the slippery rocks and paths.
Clothing :
Waterproof jacket – Over-trousers – Socks – Wicking Thermal tops – Fleece mid-layer – Mountain trousers – Gloves – Warm hat – Spare warm layer – Boots, Ski boots, Ski helmet, Ski Jacket, Ski pants, Base and mid layers, Ski socks, Goggles

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Vancouver Island Activities near Mount Albert Edward

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.

Deep Bay Windsurfing

Deep Bay Windsurfing

Discover your windsurfing spirit while you are in the Deep Bay area. Waterfowl in the winter months have made these protected waters a hot spot for windsurfing. Due to Deep Bay's proximity to Baynes Sound, visitors can enjoy several other outdoor adventures. Also, more recreational opportunities are provided in the park and the golf club nearby.

Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground

Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground

By camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground, the freedom you feel is seductive. The sandy beaches are perfect for spending some time walking or lounging on enjoying the lake's beautiful view and forest. So, do not miss another day of your vacation and head to the Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground to fulfil your desires for adventure.

Camping in Puntledge RV Campground

Camping in Puntledge RV Campground

Nestled right in the territory of K’omoks First Nation, the Puntledge RV Campground offers you chances to camp next to a river with a mountain view as your backdrop, which makes it an ideal place to watch how the sun greets the mountains. You can enjoy camping with all facilities provided and no worries for the kids to get hurt. Also, a top-notch adventure is awaiting you.

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Spacious, unique, private, and complete facility sites are provided in Bradsdadsland Campsite for visitors to have a perfect time camping on Hornby Island. Embrace this fantastic opportunity for adventure while you are in one of the gems of Hornby Island. You would feel peaceful while camping in the beautiful Bradsdadsland, away from your daily boring daily routine. While watching sunsets, enjoy the ocean view ahead of you.

Kye Bay and Goose Spit Surfing

Kye Bay and Goose Spit Surfing

Come to Kye Bay and Goose Spit, and then you will figure out why you get on the road in the first place. On the east coast of Vancouver Island, extreme tides breaking into the sandy beaches of these two spectacular spots would make them both ideal destinations for surfing. While you are on these beaches, you are provided with stunning sceneries of the BC Coastal Mountains, which can double the surfing pleasure.

Camping in Tribune Bay Campground-Hornby Island

Camping in Tribune Bay Campground-Hornby Island

In Tribune Bay Campground-Hornby Island, you would have the chance to spend your time on grass or the area covers by green trees. There might be one of the best places to spend time with your family and an excellent opportunity to observe different flora and fauna. The camp is next to a co-op if one needs anything necessary, which is great for campers.

Flora Islet Diving

Flora Islet Diving

If you are wandering around Hornby Island and thinking about a way to multiply the adventure of your day, do not hesitate and head to Flora Islet. On the other hand, no boats? Don't worry! This excellent diving zone is accessible by ferry. Enthusiasts who come to the site on summer days have the chance to see six-gill sharks.

Kitty Coleman Beach & Bates Beach Surfing

Kitty Coleman Beach & Bates Beach Surfing

Leave your job and its responsibilities for a few days and try to feed your soul. If you are looking for a way to add excitement to your journey, Kitty Coleman Beach & Bates Beach will provide you with great opportunities to embrace and skim the surface of the water. Wave surfing on Kitty Coleman Beach and the low-tide pools of Bates Beach would make you feel fully charged and ready to get back doing your job.

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Looking for a place on Hornby Island to stay the night while enjoying yourselves? You would better stop by camping in Ford's Cove Marina and camp with your RV or tent. This campground has cute oceanic views and glorious sunsets with gorgeous mountains. The Ford's Cove Marina Campground sites are charming, well-maintained, and spacious, with a pleasant grassy and treed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

places to see near Mount Albert Edward Vancouver island BC

Strathcona Provincial Park and the areas within which Mount Albert Edward lies benefits from wildlife creatures and various plant species. There are perfect opportunities for seeing beautiful birds ornamenting the trails to Mount Albert Edward and Strathcona Park. Unlimited nature
appreciation chances exist, whether in pristine or developed areas.
Strathcona Provincial Park is also known for as campers’ paradise since there exist several chances for camping, whether backcountry wilderness camping or camping at well-developed sites. Mountaineers can camp at several designated areas and continue their trip at a slower pace while hiking through Mount Albert Edward Trail. Most campsites are set in the old-growth forest through an awe-inspiring environment.

Things to do around Mount Albert Edward

Take a trip to one of the jewels of Strathcona Provincial Park and experience a unique journey. Climbing Mount Albert Edward as the sixth-highest peaks of Vancouver Island well-worth it for the breathtaking views of heavenly green Strathcona Provincial Park and surrounded by volcanic mountains. The area around Mount Albert Edward is a paradise of outdoor recreations and vivid natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts will have lots of chances for several recreational sports as fishing, windsurfing, swimming, and paddling. The Park is suitable for every visitor, whether seeking pristine wilderness or strolling and camping in developed areas. Kayakers and canoers will find opportunities to spend a whole day paddling in Buttle Lake or Upper Campbell River. The main body of water of Strathcona Provincial Park, Buttle Lake, as well as other waterways, are perfect for catching Cutthroat, Dolly Varden trout, and Rainbow. The Strathcona Park is full of well-maintained and less-maintained trails, as Lupin Falls Trail and Lower Myra Falls winding through the old-growth forest, around lakes. One of the highest waterfalls is located in Canada within the boundary of Strathcona Provincial Park that has a drop of 440 m (1443 ft.) over three cascades. For those who love to see the living creatures, exploring the area of Mount Albert Edward and Strathcona Park is an unforgettable destination.

Hike to the Mount Albert Edward

Hike to Mt Albert Edward is via Mount Albert Edward Trail, which starts on Mount Washington, near Comox Valley C, British Columbia, Canada. It is a 39.9 km (24.7 miles) loop trail that gains an elevation of 1723 m (5652 ft.). The trail is lightly trafficked out, rated as difficult. Portions of the trail are well-maintained while others are less maintained. Mount Albert Edward Trail passes through dense shrubbery and old-growth forest and is garnished by beautiful small animals and birds.

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Climbing

 Climb the incredible Mount Albert Edward and get the opportunity of ascending the sixth-highest mountain on Vancouver Island. The commanding views of magnificent mountains as well as the glorious Strathcona Provincial Park are worthy to get to the summit of the mountain.

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Canoeing & Kayaking

 Enjoy a peaceful time paddling in the fresh waters of Buttle Lake and Upper Campbell River a whole afternoon. Be aware of the possibility of hazardous winds hitting the lakes.

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Fishing

The turquoise waters of the Buttle Lake and other lakes and waterways around Mount Albert Edward offer exceptional fishing of a variety of types. Before fishing, check the regulations issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Anyone angling in British Columbia, Canada, must have an appropriate license.

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Cycling

 Chances for mountain biking exist in the vicinity of Kunlin Lake through Gold River. Bicycle hamlets are mandatory, and bikers must keep on roadways.

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Fishing

The turquoise waters of the Buttle Lake and other lakes and waterways around Mount Albert Edward offer exceptional fishing of a variety of types. Before fishing, check the regulations issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Anyone angling in British Columbia, Canada, must have an appropriate license.

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Hiking

Ascending Mount Albert Edward can be done as a multi-day or one-day trek. High-quality hiking is atop Mount Albert Edward, which benefits from breathtaking views of towering mountains surrounding and green valleys. Hiking routes wind through old-growth forest and pleasant ambiance of tarns and small lakes. The 19.7-mile out-and-back trail near Comox Valley C, British Columbia is generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 11 h 21 min to complete. The Mount Albert Edward a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, especially during July through October. .

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Hunting

 The areas of Megin-Talbot and McBride Creek are suitable for hunting specific species. Hunting is allowed by valid tags and licenses. Before hunting, refer to the Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis publication.

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water Activity near butter lake

Waterskiing: Buttle Lake is the main body of water of the Strathcona Park in which Mount Albert Edward lies, offers the thrilling sport of waterskiing.
Swimming: Mountaineers can take a dip into the cold waters of the lakes that are dotting the Strathcona Provincial Park without any lifeguards on duty. Swimming is allowed in all lakes except for Kwai Lake.
Windsurfing: Chances for windsurfing exist in Buttle Lake, which serves windsurfers as a popular destination. 
Fishing
: The turquoise waters of the Buttle Lake and other lakes and waterways around Mount Albert Edward offer exceptional fishing of a variety of types. Before fishing, check the regulations issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Anyone angling in British Columbia, Canada, must have an appropriate license.

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What you Can Expect to See Near Mount Albert Edward on

Union Bay

Union Bay

Union Bay, a charming seaside village on Vancouver Island’s east coast, is celebrated for its deep harbor—the deepest in Baynes Sound—and its storied past as a bustling coal port from 1888 to 1960. Nestled in the Comox Valley, just 15 km south of Courtenay, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, scenic beauty, and modern oyster aquaculture. Visitors can explore Heritage Row’s restored buildings, savor fresh seafood at the iconic Highwayman Saloon, and enjoy coastal activities like kayaking and hiking. With its vibrant history tied to the K’ómoks First Nation and coal mining, Union Bay is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers. This article guides you through how to visit, top attractions, permit requirements, and travel tips to experience this historic Vancouver Island destination.

Maple Lake

Maple Lake

Maple Lake, also known as the jewel of Comox Valley, is a nice scenic local lake with great fun opportunities. Surrounded by second-growth forests and excellent shorelines, Maple Lake provides its visitors with fabulous hiking trails in which you take a nice long walk while enjoying the magnificent scenery of the lake. As an important natural asset of Comox valley, Maple Lake is a peaceful destination to explore the nature.

Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward is the sixth-highest mountain on Vancouver Island. It is located in the center of Vancouver Island in Strathcona Provincial Park and is one of the most easily accessible mountains. Mt Albert Edward is a popular destination among mountaineers at 2093 m (6866 ft.) elevation. It was named for Albert Edward and was first ascended in 1890 by William Ralph. The mountain is a renowned place among mountaineers for skiing and snowshoeing in winters.

Saratoga Beach

Saratoga Beach

Saratoga Beach is a serene coastal retreat on Vancouver Island that offers an escape from city life. Renowned for its pristine sands, vibrant tide pools, and breathtaking ocean views, this beach is an ideal destination for families, photographers, and nature lovers. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Saratoga Beach provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. In this article, we cover why this beach is a must-visit, detailed driving directions from key cities, and essential tips—including permit and parking information—to help you plan your visit.

Comox

Comox

Comox is a town with fishing opportunities, local wildlife, year-round golf and proximity to the Mount Washington ski area, the Forbidden Plateau, and Strathcona Provincial Park. Based on archaeological evidence, there was a Coast Salish fishing settlement at Comox for at least 4,000 years. The area's signature landmark is the Comox Glacier.

Courtenay

Courtenay

Courtenay is the biggest community in the area with daily flights from Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. It has scenic beaches, rivers, lakes, and popular activities such as Mt. Washington Ski, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snowboarding, and world-class golfing. Comox Valley is famous for year-round sports and recreational activities among them are bird watching and photography.

Parksville

Parksville

Parksville is known for its scenic, superb sandy beaches. This city is also famous for hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife, parks, entertainment centres, and many fantastic restaurants and pubs. The city's most popular annual festival is Sandcastle Competition. Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, and Englishman River Falls Provincial Park are among the most visited places.

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.

Goose Spit Park

Goose Spit Park

Goose Spit Park is a long narrow coastal park with a view of the Pacific Ocean and majestic mountains. Lots of driftwoods exist all over the beach. Have a nice walk on the long walkway to see lots of crab and starfish or find some sand dollars. Goose Spit Park offers excellent opportunities for water sports like swimming, kayaking, and surfing.

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is a fantastic natural garden with delightful paths, a creek, and great open spaces. It is home to plenty of native plants, wildflowers, and birds. The garden features one of the largest collections of rhododendrons in Western Canada, with over 3000 plantings. The best time to visit is from March to the end of June when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Nymph Falls

Nymph Falls

The Puntledge River cuts its way through the rocks, and it falls where the stunning drops of Nymph Falls appear. It is the crown jewel of Nymph Falls Nature Park, with two drops in the middle of the wood, the wonderful lush green forest. Just drive about 10 km (6.2 mi) from Courtenay to the west to discover the beauties.

Deer Falls

Deer Falls

A great place to heal and recharge on the Campbell River is Deer Falls, a little piece of heaven. Imagine the water descends into an emerald green pool with the sweetest melody that you could hear and the tall trees surrounding the falls. In summer and late spring, the rocks around the pool become moss-covered and create a fabulous view. Watching bears there in summertime eating salmon is fantastic, but don't limit your expectations; the area has a lot to offer as scenery.

Stotan Falls

Stotan Falls

It is a grace finding a waterfall along a river. The Puntledge River makes Stotan Falls a beautiful pond waterfall with a wide area. The waterfall sound melodious by the water pouring smoothly on the large rocks on its way that you can enjoy for hours. Swimming in summer would be delightful while you are in hot water where the green forest surrounds you.

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Tribune Bay Provincial Park, or Little Hawaii, has an expansive sweep of white sand surrounded by woods. The park is famous for its unusual rocky shoreline formations, tidal pools, and beautiful white sandy beaches. Its warm and shallow water is ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Being there watching sunsets and a beautiful full moon without any street lights to distract the view would impress you.

Rosewall Creek Falls

Rosewall Creek Falls

The flow of Rosewall Creek forms a waterfall in the middle of a rain forest surrounded by moss-covered rocks. Rosewall Creek Falls is one of the masterpieces done by nature that deserves multiple visits. The water is white and pure, and it seems like it's coming out of a wall made of trees. Visiting the waterfall in summer and spring would be perfect as the creek has a higher water level.

Best Time to Visit

Planning a hike to Mount Albert Edward in Strathcona Provincial Park requires careful attention to seasonal weather and trail conditions. This stunning alpine trek offers panoramic views of Vancouver Island’s central mountains and is best attempted during the snow-free months. Due to its high elevation and alpine terrain, the trail is typically accessible from late spring through early fall. Below is a breakdown of the optimal months to visit, weather expectations, trail accessibility, and helpful considerations for hikers.


Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Cool and wet; lingering snow at higher elevations.

Lower trail sections accessible; upper areas may be snow-covered.

Use caution; potential snowpack; check avalanche updates.

June

Milder temps; mix of sun and showers.

Most of the trail becomes accessible.

Snow may persist at the summit; bring layers and poles.

July

Warm and dry; ideal conditions.

Fully accessible; all routes open.

Peak hiking month; campsites may fill quickly.

August

Warm, dry, and stable conditions.

Fully accessible; excellent visibility.

Peak season; book early; best time for summit attempts.

September

Cooler, more frequent rain; shorter days.

Trail open but can become muddy/slippery.

Fewer crowds; prepare for rapidly changing weather.

Most frequent asked question about Mount Albert Edward

 Mount Albert Edward is a prominent peak in Strathcona Provincial Park, British Columbia’s oldest provincial park, situated in central Vancouver Island. It lies approximately 25 km west of Courtenay and 40 km southwest of Campbell River, offering stunning alpine views of the Comox Glacier and surrounding wilderness.
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2025 February 19

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