The day’s goal was Canoe Peak, but a series of pre-existing minor injuries and unfavourable route conditions in the Mackenzie Range conspired to stop us from reaching it. Despite our misfortune, we still enjoyed the day. The Mackenzie Range features some of Vancouver Island’s most dramatic-looking peaks, the type that …
Mt Grey, another in a growing list of failed summit attempts
Mount Grey is a lovely hike through old-growth alpine fir and along a treed alpine ridge, up to a summit that offers great views of the Alberni Inlet. My Mount Grey trip had two portions of adventure: the cold from an arctic outflow, and the ride home. On January …
Mount Spencer: The Great Congo Line of December 2016
I’ll cut to the chase– we didn’t make the summit of Mount Spencer. Of course, as with most of my stories, the devil’s in the details. On December 18th, Vancouver Island was deep in a colder-than-normal shoulder season. The day held a forecast for overcast skies and precipitation. Further, the …
Comox Glacier: A Great Day Hike
View PostClimbing Triple Peak: A Little Peak with a Big Mountain Feel
When I think back on my numerous mountaineering adventures, Triple Peak stands out as a favourite among them. The approach is as beautiful as the alpine; it ascends beside a waterfall, and up to the large lake that sits in the bowl below the ridge. The lake alone is worth …
A Family Kayak Trip on Kennedy Lake
View PostSteamboat Mountain: A Walk on Fluted Limestone
View PostMount Hal, A Backpackers Route from Sea to Summit
The Beaufort Range has many worthy hiking peaks. Mount Hal is a mountain suitable for anyone capable of the long distance. The Beaufort Range is one of the most picturesque low-alpine ridges on Vancouver Island. On my Island Alpine Quest, it’s one of my favourite regions to visit. I’m never …
Tapaltos Bay & Cape Beale Lighthouse Visit!
View PostClayoquot Plateau Bush Bash
Have you ever pushed through so much bush that it physically pains you, and causes emotional trauma to the degree that it haunts you for days? I have, and I recommend that every hiker/mountaineer does it at least a few times in their life. It gives you perspective: in some …