advertise
Vanislander / Landmarks / Ranges / Mount Washington

Mount Washington on Vancouver Island

Mount Washington, a majestic peak in the Vancouver Island Ranges, is a premier destination for tourists seeking adventure, stunning scenery, and a connection to nature. Located in the heart of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, this 1,588-meter (5,210-foot) mountain offers rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views of the Comox Valley and Strathcona Provincial Park. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual hiker, this comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to Mount Washington, including how to get there, permit requirements, and top activities, all tailored for tourists exploring this iconic mountain.

Why Visit Mount Washington?

Mount Washington is a standout feature of Vancouver Island’s rugged landscape, known for its steep basalt cliffs, alpine meadows, and proximity to Strathcona Provincial Park. Its accessibility via logging roads and trails makes it an ideal destination for day trips or multi-day adventures. Tourists can enjoy panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia, the Comox Valley, and nearby peaks like Mount Albert Edward. With opportunities for hiking, climbing, and wildlife viewing, Mount Washington is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

more

less

History of Mount Washington

Mount Washington lies within the traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, whose cultural heritage is deeply tied to the land and surrounding waterways. Their stories and traditions reflect a profound connection to the mountains and forests of Vancouver Island. The first recorded ascent of Mount Washington is not well-documented, but early climbs likely involved multi-day treks through dense bush and rugged terrain, similar to those described for Victoria Peak in the 1960s (source: provided document). Today, improved access via logging roads has made the mountain more approachable for tourists while respecting its cultural and natural significance.

more

less

How to Get to Mount Washington From Victoria

Mount Washington is accessible from Victoria and Nanaimo, making it a convenient destination for tourists.
Below are the exact routes you provided, ensuring accuracy and ease of navigation.
Starting Point: Victoria Harbour Ferry, Victoria, BC V8W 9M2, Canada
Distance: Approximately 244 km (151.6 miles)
Duration: About 2 hours 56 minutes
Route:
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N: Drive 1.2 km (4 minutes).
Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Dove Creek Rd/Strathcona Pkwy in Comox Valley: Continue for 224 km (2 hours 34 minutes).
Follow Strathcona Pkwy to Nordic Dr: Drive 19.0 km (18 minutes) to reach Mount Washington.
Tips: The route follows the scenic Island Highway (BC-19 N). Winter visitors must equip vehicles with winter tires and chains, as required by the BC Ministry of Transportation for Strathcona Parkway.

more

less

How to Get to Mount Washington From Nanaimo

 Starting Point: BC Ferries Departure Bay Terminal, 680 Trans-Canada Hwy, Nanaimo, BC V9S 2X9, Canada Distance: Approximately 131 km (81.4 miles) Duration: About 1 hour 27 minutes
Route:
 Take Island Hwy N/BC-19A N to BC-19 N in Lantzville: Drive 11.3 km (16 minutes).
 Merge onto BC-19 N: Continue for 101 km (57 minutes).
 Follow Strathcona Pkwy to Nordic Dr: Drive 19.0 km (18 minutes) to reach Mount Washington.
Tips: This is the fastest route with minimal traffic. Check Drive BC for road conditions, especially in winter, as snow can affect Strathcona Parkway.

more

less

Vancouver Island Activities Near Mount Washington

Camping in Circlet Lake Campground

Camping in Circlet Lake Campground

The fundamental core of life is your thirst for adventure; therefore, visiting Circlet Lake is a must. Circlet Lake Campground has enough attraction to fascinate you. Alpine forest, easy access, waterfalls, and lakes are just some attractions bewitching visitors and mountaineers for camping there. Some wooden plateau tent pads are provided on the lake, while some are off the lake for campers who need more seclusion.

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.

The Jib Diving

The Jib Diving

If you happen to wander around Nanoose Bay, The Jib Diving site is one of the most attractive diving destinations in the region, with a clean environment and easy access. Moreover, except for the beautiful view of the site, you can enjoy watching a diversity of marine life.

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.

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.

Cottam Point Diving

Cottam Point Diving

Assign one page of your adventure book to the experience you would gain in the Cottam Point diving zone. Going north of Nanaimo, this fantastic diving location is famous for its mighty tides and incredible marine life. Therefore, you can enjoy both diving and exploring underwater life.

Camping in Cape Lazo RV & Campground

Camping in Cape Lazo RV & Campground

Are you seeking privacy and seclusion from busy towns? Plan to go to the Cape Lazo RV Campground this weekend. The impressive Comox Valley is beautiful at any time of the year, offering recreational opportunities besides exploring miles of scenic shoreline. There you are provided with a great environment and a panoramic view of the Strait of Georgia. Not to mention that all campsites are equipped for the convenience of the visitors.

Mount Washington Snowshoeing

Mount Washington Snowshoeing

Being the busiest winter recreational destination in BC, Mount Washington provides you with incredible winter activities, including snowshoeing. While you are on the snow, enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Strait of Georgia and the Sunshine Coast from Powell River to Sechelt. Moreover, several nearby resorts are ready to offer service to visitors annually.

Mount Washington Snowboarding

Mount Washington Snowboarding

As the second busiest winter recreational destination in BC, Mt. Washington Ski Resort in Comox Valley offers a wide range of snowboarding facilities. Mountain climbing enthusiasts who choose Mount Washington for snowboarding have the chance to look across the Strait of Georgia and other spectacular views, such as the Strathcona Provincial Park region.

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.

Nearby Attractions Mount Washington Vancouver Island BC

Strathcona Provincial Park situated nearly at the center of Vancouver Island, is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia, Canada, and the largest on Vancouver Island
Explore waterfalls like Myra Falls, camp at Circlet Lake, or hike to Mount Albert Edward.

Camping and Accommodation Near Mount Washington

While Mount Washington itself has no formal campsites, nearby areas offer excellent options for tourists seeking to camp or stay in comfort.

Schoen Lake Provincial Park

Schoen Lake Provincial Park 20 km on the north side:
Vehicle-accessible campsites with fishing
 canoeing
hiking opportunities.

more

less

Muchalat Lake Campground

Muchalat Lake Campground on the south side : Tent and RV sites near Gold River
 prefect for a peaceful retreat.

more

less

Vernon Lake and Klaklakama Lakes

Vernon Lake and Klaklakama Lakes sited between the west and northside :
Logging campsites with boat launches for fishing trout and dolly varden.

more

less

What you Can Expect to See Near Mount Washington

Mount Washington

Mount Washington

Mount Washington, a majestic peak in the Vancouver Island Ranges, is a premier destination for tourists seeking adventure, stunning scenery, and a connection to nature. Located in the heart of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, this 1,588-meter (5,210-foot) mountain offers rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views of the Comox Valley and Strathcona Provincial Park. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual hiker, this comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to Mount Washington, including how to get there, permit requirements, and top activities, all tailored for tourists exploring this iconic mountain.

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.

Campbell River

Campbell River

Campbell River is the fourth largest city on Vancouver Island. It has long been called "the Salmon Capital of the World." Campbell River has a reach ecosystem and beautiful waterfalls. Fishing, skiing at Mount Washington, playing golf, and seasonal activities like bear and whale watching are among the best things you can do in Campbell River.

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.

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.

Trent River

Trent River

The Trent River runs through nature and brings more life to it. The river has a waterfall on its way and merges into the Strait of Georgia. It is fantastic to see the water flowing over the stones and hear the dipper's clear wandering song working along the edge. The Trent River is a beautiful attraction perfect for swimming in summer. There are many fishes in the river, including pink salmon.

Trent River Falls

Trent River Falls

Listen to the music of water, let your troubles go with the flow, and immerse yourself in nature. Get yourself in touch with the perfect view of Trent River Falls, its ecosystem, and beautiful trees. Enjoy the wildlife and a wide range of bird species in the area. Make your outdoor excursion around the waterfall and the Trent River full of peace.

Best Time to Visit Mount Washington

Carefully planning your Mount Washington, Vancouver Island hike based on seasonal conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The following outlines optimal visit times and key considerations.

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail/Resort Accessibility

Considerations

January

Heavy snowfall; cold temperatures

Resort fully operational for skiing/snowboarding

Best time for snow sports; dress warmly and book lodging early

February

Snowy; slightly milder than January

Excellent ski conditions; full resort open

Ideal for powder skiing; great for winter photography

March

Snow begins to ease; mix of snow and sun

Late-season skiing; snowshoeing trails open

Good for snowshoeing; quieter slopes late in the month

April

Cool; snow melting at lower elevations

Resort transitions to spring mode; limited winter access

Unpredictable conditions; dress in layers

May

Variable; cooler with some rain

Resort closed; limited hiking at lower elevations

Good for peaceful nature walks at lower elevations

June

Mild temperatures; mountain flowers start blooming

Summer trails begin to open; lift access limited

Fewer crowds; perfect for wildflower hikes

July

Warm and dry; clear skies

Full access to hiking, biking, and chairlift rides

Peak season for hiking and scenic views; ideal for families

August

Warmest month; dry and sunny

Resort open for all summer activities

Best time for biking, sightseeing, and summer events

September

Cooling; increased rain; first snowfall at peaks

Some summer operations; fall hikes accessible

Cooler hikes; good wildlife watching; bring rain gear

October

Cool and wet; fall colours at lower trails

No lift access; trails open but weather variable

Off-season; peaceful and quiet but limited services

November

Cold with increasing snow

Resort preparing for winter season

Plan ahead; snow returns but services may not be fully active

December

Snowy and cold; start of ski season

Ski hill open; fresh powder attracts early season visitors

Winter activities resume; festive holiday vibe at resort

Additional Information about Mount Washington on Vancouver Island

 Comox Valley: 25 km (15.5 miles) east
 Campbell River: 50 km (31 miles) southeast
 Gold River: 30 km (18.6 miles) southwest
 Woss: 40 km (24.8 miles) north
 Tahsis: 42 km (26 miles) west
 Zeballos: 54 km (33.5 miles) west

Things to do around the Mount Washington

Mount Washington offers a variety of activities for tourists, from challenging climbs to leisurely hikes, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Climbing

Mount Washington’s basalt cliffs and steep ridges are ideal for skilled mountaineers. The solid rock formations offer excellent climbing opportunities, with rewarding views of the Comox Valley and Strathcona Provincial Park. Guided climbs are available through local outfitters for those seeking professional support.

more

less

Hiking

Explore trails like the Paradise Meadows Loop in Strathcona Provincial Park, an easy 4.2-km trail perfect for beginners, or tackle the challenging 16-km round-trip to Mount Washington’s summit for experienced hikers. The trails wind through old-growth forests and alpine meadows, offering chances to spot wildlife like Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer.

more

less

Wildlife Viewing

The area around Mount Washington is rich in biodiversity. Look for marbled murrelets, a threatened seabird, as well as cougars, wolves, and old-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock trees. Strathcona Provincial Park protects these species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts (source: BC Parks).

more

less

Backcountry Skiing and Snowshoeing

In winter, Mount Washington’s heavy snowfall (over 11 meters annually) creates ideal conditions for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Access sub-alpine areas via logging roads from Mount Cain Road, but ensure you have avalanche training and gear, as the terrain can be hazardous (source: Avalanche Canada).

more

less

Most frequent questions about Mount Washington

The best time to visit Mount Washington depends on your interests. Winter (December to March) is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, thanks to heavy snowfall and well-groomed slopes.
Summer months (July to September) offer stunning alpine hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides, making Mount Washington a four-season destination on Vancouver Island.
Profile Picture

Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

Festival & Events: Don't Miss Out!

What Do You Think about Mount Washington on Vancouver Island