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Vanislander / Landmarks / Ranges / Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward no 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

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 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.

Goose Spit Regional Park Windsurfing

Goose Spit Regional Park Windsurfing

If you are craving a windsurfing opportunity during winter, Goose Spit Regional Park will provide you with the chance to meet your expectations of windsurfing along with kiteboarding. Nestled near Comox Valley, you are allowed to enjoy yourselves and the extraordinary scenery at the same time. Sandy and rocky beaches and diverse wildlife are other features of the Goose spit.

Camping in Kwai Lake Campground

Camping in Kwai Lake Campground

Once you got bitten by the travel bug, remember to stop by Kwai Lake. Its campground offers an excellent time camping with impressive views all around you. Paved road access, well-maintained trails make the campground a suitable place for campers. A backcountry campground nestled right in an area that is home to diverse flora and fauna. Campers can have an ideal walk-in, wilderness camping adventure.

Mount Washington Skiing

Mount Washington Skiing

As one of the biggest and most visited ski resorts in Comox Valley, The Mount Washington resort is a summer-winter destination primed with several facilities to serve skiing followers. The high rate of snowfall and spectacular views of the ocean, and ample facilities for winter activities multiply the attractiveness of Mount Washington.

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.

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.

The Hike to Trent Falls

The Hike to Trent Falls

A relatively short and easy trail in the Comox Valley area is the hike to Trent Falls. Stay on track because its wild nature has much to offer. Hiking along the Trent River with its perfect swimming and fishing opportunities and watching the waterfall with a deep pool under and the wildlife around it brings you joy, especially if you are with the family.

Hiking on the Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk

Hiking on the Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk

The Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk makes it possible for you to hike in a paved path where nature is around you. It is easy to find wildlife for photography while hiking. Take your dog with you and choose between hiking, walking, running, and biking. As the trail is suitable for all ages and is close to Courtenay, it is one of the popular hiking trails in the area that gets crowded on sunny days.

Stories Beach Surfing

Stories Beach Surfing

As a reward for your hard work, travel to Vancouver Island to fulfil your cravings for adventure and fun. Adjacent to Campbell River, Stories Beach is a vibrant spot attracting many visitors worldwide. The great waves heating the beach allow you to experience surfing for real. While you are in the area, keep in mind to fish; so, do not forget to bring your fishing rods.

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

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.

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.

Brown's River Falls

Brown's River Falls

Along the Brown River, there is a river fall that completes its attractiveness. The river's stream cascades from rock cliffs and makes Brown's River Falls. It is also known as Medicine Bowl, a series of falls in a lush green forest. The landscape is worthy enough to sit on a rock and watch it for hours, and the sound of the waterfall is like a piece of music on repeat, which you would not become bored with it.

Beaufort Range

Beaufort Range

Develop your life skills and overcome daily life obstacles in touch with nature. The Beaufort Range has incredible mountains stretching from Horne Lake to Comox Lake with Mount Joan as the highest summit. It offers excellent hiking with outstanding views overlooking the Strait of Georgia and Port Alberni, passing through a bit bushy cols.

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

Planning your hike on Vancouver Island's West Coast Trail (WCT) 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 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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Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

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