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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Vancouver Island Activities Near Mount Washington

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 Kiteboarding

Goose Spit Regional Park Kiteboarding

When you plan to choose a destination to go kiteboarding, you will get lost in the reasons you should select Goose Spit Regional Park. A scenic beach including a fantastic ecosystem will provide you with a handful of activities, kiteboarding in particular. Diverse wildlife is also observable.

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.

Campbell River Whale Watching

Campbell River Whale Watching

Get on the board of a Zodiac-style vessel while sailing towards the heart of the water to the sea, watch the giant mammals in the world among other marine creatures. While experiencing Campbell River Whale Watching, you will encounter a rare natural beauty home to diverse wildlife. Campbell River, the salmon capital of the world, is the origin of several tours launching into the Strait of Georgia.

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.

Hiking on the Elk Falls via Millenium Trail

Hiking on the Elk Falls via Millenium Trail

The Elk Falls via Millenium Trail is a family-friendly loop. This excellent hike with spectacular views includes waterfalls, Suspension Bridge, sitting areas and the Campbell River. Hiking this trail certainly tests your nerves. It is well maintained with several facilities. Get in touch with beautiful scenery along the river, and enjoy the stunning park with all family members while you are just a few kilometres away from downtown.

Mount Washington Snowmobiling

Mount Washington Snowmobiling

Snowmobilers and sledding enthusiasts have the chance to go snowboarding in the morning and waterskiing in the afternoon. The warm dressing is critical during snowmobiling in Mount Washington. Besides, the fantastic view there is fabulous for photography.

Camping in Lighthouse RV Park and Campground

Camping in Lighthouse RV Park and Campground

The great adventure in Fanny Bay will always hunt its visitors. The Lighthouse RV Park and Campground offer undeniable opportunities for camping of all kinds with a beautiful view of the ocean ornamented by mountains and islands. This campground offers excellent accommodation with every essential amenity. Not to mention that you can lose yourself in its charm, quiet, and unique sites and find it again.

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 Fillongley Provincial Park Campground

Camping in Fillongley Provincial Park Campground

If you got a few days free and you plan to spend it on Vancouver Island, pay a visit to Fillongely Provincial Park to experience every possible way of camping. Nestled amongst lush green deciduous trees, visitors would enjoy excellent hiking trails with picturesque sights. This quiet, clean, and grassy park provides you with exciting activities and a gorgeous ocean and forest view.

Nearby Attractions Near 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.

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Muchalat Lake Campground

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

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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.

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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 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.

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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.

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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).

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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).

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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.
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2025 February 19

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