THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 11 Forbidden Plateau & Paradise Meadows 2011 MAP & TRAIL GUIDE Strathcona Wilderness Institute offers Weekend Programs & Hikes Photo: Krista Kaptein See page 22 for details, To help with the Institute’s operational costs, a donation of $5 to $10 is suggested for the programs.
Want to enjoy the mountain flowers If you would like to help support the and plants at your own pace? Strathcona goals of SWI in any way, please visit Wilderness Institute has placed native the website at www.strathconapark.org, plant markers at numerous locations Or contact the SPWC 2011 Summer along the Centennial boardwalk. Or, visit Coordinator, Krista at 250-650-4304 the Wilderness Centre for a brochure to or [email protected] help you on your self-guided plant identification walk. Strathcona Wilderness Institute is continuing the weekend information BC Parks Map & Trail Guide Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre Photo: Krista Kaptein service at Buttle Lake in Strathcona courtesy of Rick Gibson The Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre at the Paradise Meadows trailhead has a Provincial Park. See page 13 for details. Coordinator on site every weekend during the summer. Information on trail conditions Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hours) Volunteers are always welcome to help and hiking destinations is available to park visitors. The Centre is open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Direct: 250-338-1723 at either the Wilderness Centre or the Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays, from the beginning of July to mid-September. Information Hut. A good knowledge of Volunteers also staff the Centre on occasional weekdays. ‘ Strathcona Park and its trails is essential. SPWC Rental Space The Centre is available for day rentals. The lower level is ideal for The Strathcona Park Wilderness presentations, workshops, or school groups, with meeting space for up to 30 people, a Centre at Paradise Meadows fulfills the small kitchen, and accessible washroom. Reduced rates are offered for non-profit groups vision of Strathcona Wilderness Institute: or schools – check the SWI website for info www.strathconapark.org to create, with community partners, a The Centennial Trail into Paradise Meadows from the Wilderness Centre parking Centre for programs and information area is completely wheelchair accessible. With gentle grades, this 2 km. trail is also on Strathcona Park. Assistance and suitable for seniors and families with strollers. The trail connects into the extensive donations, whether financial or in-kind, trail system leading to Battleship Lake, Lake Helen Mackenzie, and beyond. are always welcome, to help with the ongoing operations and programs of Strathcona Wilderness Institute. FAMILY DINING THAT’S WELL WORTH THE DRIVE!
While exploring the Comox Valley take time to visit the vibrant seasidetown of Comox. Enjoy a stroll along the oceanside boardwalk, browse boutique shops and quench your thirst or appetite in an array of cafes and restaurants. Savour our home made soups, sauces and gravies. And best of all, it’s all within a two block radius. Enjoy our locally grown beef burgers and roasts. Treat yourself to our home made desserts. Kids Play Area & Patio • Seniors’ Menu Open Daily 7am - 9pm 2601 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC 250-334-8087 www.platescatering.com Store: 250-338-0101 Service: 250-338-6553 Eatery & Catering Co. www.comoxbythesea.com Open 7 Days A Week 278 N. Isl. Hwy. Courtenay 12 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 21
Photo: Neil Havers
Raven Lodge Paradise Meadows To Alpine Forbidden Plateau Toilets Hiking Distances Trailhead Ski Resort (in kilometres) Paradise Meadows Camping Trail Centennial Loop Trail Ranger Station Route Rossiter In Case of Emergency... From Albert Edward 1000 Lake 1000 Paradise Meadows Loop Trail To Courtenay • Contact Park Facility Operator in the area. Augerpoint route (not shown on map) Parking Park Boundary 1200 Helen Mackenzie Location of Park Facility Operators may be Distance: 25 km (one way) Core Area Battleship Lake posted on the notice board at the ranger cabin. Loop Trail Suggested time: 3 days • Phones are located at Mount Washington. An extended route through to Buttle • In case of emergency, Phone 911 Harris Divers Lake. From the summit of Albert Edward Lake Lake • To report a forest fire, dial 0 and ask for descend it's southwest ridge to the 1-800-663-5555 1200 drainage divide above Norm Creek and Maps and Guidebook Ralph Lake. Continue up to Ruth Masters Battleship Scale 1:50:000 Nat. Topographic Series Lake (local name) and above to the sad- Lake Lake dle southwest of Augerpoint Mountain. Helen Mackenzie -92 F/11 Forbidden Plateau 1400 -92 F/12 Buttle Lake Continue southwest along the ridge to a Simms Kooso L Special Regulations high point of 1760 m before descending L Hiking Trails III Central and MOUNT Within the Core Area camping is only a long ridge above Shark Lake. Continue BROOKS 1200 Northern Vancouver Island. Sunrise permitted at these designated campsites: northwest along route to reach the begin- Lake Lake Helen Mackenzie MOUNT Lady For Further Info ning of the Auger-point Trail. This trail ELMA Lake Kwai Lake • See Park Facility Operators or go online to 1200 descends steeply for 1400 m before arriv- 1000 Circlet Lake Hike along boardwalk along side high alpine wetlands and lakes with Mount Washington ever JUTLAND ❑ www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/strath ing on the Parkway at Buttle Lake. present in the background. Be sure to wear suitable footwear and bringyour own water along. Amphitheatre No campfires allowed in core area MOUNTAIN 1200 ❑ L STRATA Croteau No mountain bikes ❑ The following guidelines will help MOUNTAIN L Pets must be on a leash and under Routes Garbage - Help keep the back grounds. All drinking water should 1400 control at all times to ensure that the Forbidden Plateau McPhee L Hairtrigger country clean. Pack out all garbage and be boiled or purified prior to con- Whiskey Kwai ❑ Please stay off revegetated areas These routes are suitable for experienced hikers. area remains pristine for all who 1600 Meadows L L Murray please pick up any litter you see. Please sumption. Please avoid swimming in 1200 1400 Thank you People using these routes should have map and com- venture there. Circlet Lake Meadows these areas as it may contaminate the pass skills and be prepared for inclement weather. do not use outhouses for trash receptacles. Mariwood water supply. It is also important to Pearse Hiking Trails - Please stay on Pets - Please keep your pet on a leash at Gem L 1200 L From Circlet Lake use the toilets and grey water pits L designated trails, stay off revegetated all times. Free running pets can harm Netuts L provided to keep these pollutants 1000 Mt. Albert Edward areas and avoid taking short cuts. other animals, irritate other visitors and 2093m from entering the lake. Lake McKenzie Elevation gain: 935m • Distance: 6.5 km Camping can be harmed by wild animals. Do not MT L - Designated camping 1600 Beautiful Panther allow your pet to swim in the lakes as Safety - To avoid bear conflicts REGAN Johnston Suggested time to summit: 5 hours sites are located at Lake Helen Mackenzie, Lake while camping, never leave food, Cruickshank Lake Douglas Follow signs towards Albert Edward from Kwai, Circlet and McKenzie-Douglas this could contaminate drinking water Canyon L garbage or toilet articles in your tent. MT Lookout Circlet Lake intersection. Trail climbs steeply for lakes. Please use the tent pads and toilets sources. ALBERT Groups - Larger groups of people tend Please use pack sack hangers provided Moat Lake first 3 km. Once the first ridge has been reached where provided. If a tent pad is unavail- EDWARD IC D at designated campgrounds. Hikers EFIEL To look for route leading South and follow for 2 km. able choose a site that has exposed soil to concentrate use in an area and cause Elev. McKenzie Wood extensive damage to the fragile vegeta- should make noise when approaching 2093m Meadows It’s another 1.5 km to the summit. or will not easily be impacted. 1200 Mountain blind corners to wa rn off bears and 1200 Parking Lot tion. To reduce these impacts, we recom- 10.7 km Castle Crag 1760m Fires - Campfires are prohibited. mend that group size be restricted to ten other animals. Elevation gain: 620m • Distance: 6.3 km Please pack a campstove for cooking. or less people. Where this is not possi- Mountain weather can change without Hope L Suggested time: 5 hours Cache your food! ble, the larger group should be split into warning, be prepared. Take spare, warm Route begins at the southeast end of Moat Lake. BC Parks has installed new metal food smaller groups which should travel and clothing and rain gear. It is advisable to MOUNT CASTLECRAG Follow route to the small col west of the sum- caches at Lake Helen MacKenzie, Kwai Lake if possible camp in different locations. leave an itinerary of your trip with a FRINK MTN Charity mit. It's a steep scramble over loose rock to and Circlet Lake campsites. Water - Drinking water is available friend or relative. Lake Elev.1760m the top. Caution: This route crosses boulder from the lakes at all designated camp- fields and slopes with loose rocks.
Island-style Sports and Fashions Seventeen wounded, injured and ill veterans from the EExplorexplore Canadian and Australian armed forces skied, boarded, and conquered the slopes at Mount Washington during the HHorneorne LLakeake Est. 1990 week-long event. “I had an amazing time. And the capabil- Affordable Family Holidays! ities of your program amaze me!” said CF veteran Jen Suitor. Voted “BEST NATURAL “Last week was the experience of a lifetime.” OUTDOOR SITE IN BC” Opportunities continue to grow each season with The second Sunday in February is the Herb Bradley By Attractions Enjoy riverfront views in downtown Canada Adaptive Snowsports on Mount Washington Coca-Cola Classic (HBCCC), VISAS’s annual fundraiser. Courtenay. Open year-round, your Teams of four head down a slalom course to race against The Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports Comox Valley Recreation starts at The Cona. FINE ITALIAN CUISINE their own guestimated time. It’s a day filled with fun activi- (VISAS) wrapped up its 23rd season, providing snowsport ties thanks to the strong support of team participation, our Dine on the Deck instruction to those with physical and mental disabilities. SpectacularSpectacular CCampingamping Short stroll to Comox Marina sponsors and the community. The 23rd HBCC raised over Dorms, privates Apart from the incredible amount of snowfall on Mount FFamilyamily AAdventuredventure CCampsamps Open for Lunch & Dinner FASHIONS & EQUIPMENT FOR THE BEACH, $14,000 to go towards new adaptive equipment and Washington this winter, our major highlights included the SSummerummer KKidsids CCampsamps & family suite. Minutes to Filberg Lodge DOWNTOWN, ON THE MOUNTAIN OR ON THE WATER VISAS’s instructional program. annual Learn to Ski Festival held in early January. A record Beds from SKISKI • KAYAKKAYAK • SSURFURF • SSWIMWIM • SKATESKATE From December to the beginning of April – seven days a DDailyaily CCaveave TToursours Your hosts: Wendy & Bill Meade number of new students signed up for this year’s five day $23 per night. week, over 417 students were involved the instructional CCanoesanoes event - for a total number of 37 students and 61 instructors. adaptive snowsports program. And thanks to the commit- KKayaksayaks & Reservations Recommended Students came from all over the island and the mainland to ment of Peter Gibson and his team at Mount Washington, (for 6 or more) share in a mountain experience, and learn to alpine or PPaddleaddle BoatsBoats Tel: 250-890-7575 along with our 80 volunteer instructors, makes VISAS one The VISAS program has grown in the last 16 years to a strong +1 (877) 490-CONA (2662 nordic ski, and snowboard. No matter the physical or men- of the most acclaimed adaptive programs in North America. and dedicated team of over 75 volunteers/instructors, and Just one hour south of Courtenay! Ph. +1 (250) 331-0991 tal challenges they had, everyone was able to participate at 140 Port Augusta, Comox SpecialtySpecialty SSkiki & KKayakayak SShophop through the generous support from Peter Gibson, General 440 Anderton Avenue, Courtenay TOURINGTOURING • RECREATIONALRECREATIONAL • WWHITEWATERHITEWATER their level of ability. To find out how to get involved visit: www.visasweb.ca and Online Reservations • www.hornelake.com Manager and his team at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. Phone: 250.248.7829 Beside the 5th St. Bridge 333333 FFifthifth SStreet,treet, CCourtenayourtenay • 250-338-8844250-338-8844 Another highlight was the 4th annual Veteran’s Festival. join us online at our VISAS Facebook and Flickr pages. THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 13 Buttle Lake
Strathcona Provincial Park western shoreline. Buttle Lake Information Hut 2011 MAP & A pleasant white sand beach and a playground Run voluntarily by the TRAIL GUIDE for children are available Strathcona Wilderness Institute at Buttle Lake Camp- Buttle Lake is easily accessible in ground. There is a Do you have questions about forty five minutes from Campbell concrete boat launch ramp Strathcona Park and its fascinating River on Hwy. 28. The drive takes within two kilometres, Photo: Neil Havers plants, wildlife or history? and also an undeveloped Are you interested in taking an you alongside the Campbell and Spectacular Buttle Lake with gravel launch nearby. The lake levels are Mount Myra showing in the background. easy day hike or exploring some Upper Campbell Lakes ending with controlled by hydro electric dams and of the challenging back country? views of the expansive waters and tend to be low during the winter but Come to the campgrounds at anytime Strathcona Wilderness Institute is pleased dramatic mountains of the Buttle normally rise for the summer months. as there are almost always sites available to provide all visitors with a wide range of Lake corridor. Ralph River Campground is shaded by on a first come-first serve basis at both information about BC’s oldest Provincial the graceful beauty of an ancient forest of major campgrounds. If you would like to Park, and one of our largest. The beauty of this peaceful place will cedar, hemlock and fir trees underneath make a reservation at Buttle Lake Camp- take your breath away, and you will find Maps, trail updates, visitor service details which you will likely see the resident ground call Discover Camping at 1-800- and more! Available every weekend from great opportunities for camping and blacktail buck grazing. This peaceful 689-9025, or link up to the website at June 17 to September 18, 2011. recreational pursuits. campground borders both the lake and a www.discovercamping.ca. People come to fish for trout, and to lovely clear river, which is at times alive Visit us at the Park Information Hut: To book Driftwood Bay Group swim, canoe, kayak, board sail, picnic, with spawning trout. It’s a popular spot 300 m. south of Highway 28 at the Buttle Lake Campground call 250-474-1336 sunbathe and waterski on the 25 km of for both fishermen and hikers of all levels. bridge turn-off to Gold River, at the Park Head- or fax 250-478-0376. quarters. Watch for the signs! lake, while others enjoy the easy and Many of the trails are easily accessible interesting nature walks, or more from Ralph River Campground. BC Parks Map & Trail Guide HOURS OF OPERATION challenging back country hikes. Local Please Note: All tributaries to Buttle courtesy of Rick Gibson June 17 to September 18, 2011 guides and club members rock climb at Lake are closed to angling. Fri: 3pm ~ 8pm Sat: 10am ~ 6pm Crest Creek Crags. Some visitors just sit Ph: 250-334-3124 (24 hours) Sun: 10am ~ 5pm Mon: 10am ~ 4pm There are interesting trails to explore quietly in the shade of ancient trees and Direct: 250-338-1723 (holidays only) enjoy the fresh air. from less strenuous and more challenging, In poor weather, or if there are few visitors, Camping facilities include 85 sites at and each with unique features to enjoy. the closing times may be earlier. Buttle Lake Campground on the lake at Opportunities abound for everyone the North end, and 75 sites at Ralph throughout the Buttle Lake corridor. For Hours of operation will be posted at: River Campground with both lake and further information refer to the map on • All campgrounds • At the ‘Elk Portal’ the next page. If you are at Buttle Lake go • Trail head information kiosks river access at the south end of the lake. to park headquarters, where volunteers • Various locations in Gold River Driftwood Bay Campground, an • Some Island Visitor Centres excellent facility for groups, is located from the Strathcona Wilderness Institute • SWI website at www.strathconapark.org separately on the northern end of the will assist you Friday, Saturday and lake. You will also find simple wilderness Sunday. Check out the Parks web site at Gerry Roberts ~ Volunteer Operator camping opportunities for boaters on the www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks.
Photo: Krista Kaptein
STRATHCONA PARK LODGE & OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTRE strathcona.bc.ca 250.286.3122 # Vancouver Island, BC, Canada 14 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011
NOTE: Cell phones don’t work in the Buttle Lake area BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR and the nearest public phone is in Gold River, 40 km west on Highway. 28.
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NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND MINE ClosedClosed uuntilntil furtherfurther nnotice.otice. 20 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011
BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR CAMPGROUNDS TRAIL AND CAMPGROUND INFORMATION RALPH RIVER CAMPGROUND • Ancient forest, lake and river. The trails described here are well defined and easily accessible. The trail heads are marked with signs. • Gates are open May 15 to September 30th. There are other, less defined trails and routes which are not shown on this map. Distances, elevation • Picnic tables, fire rings, water changes and hiking times are for ONE WAY only and are approximate. Fires are not permitted in pumps and pit toilets. Strathcona Park except in an authorized BC Parks steel fire ring. Wear sturdy boots and carry rain gear • Fee: $16.00 per party per night, $8.00 for extra vehicles. and a sweater, even in the summer months, because weather can change suddenly and dramatically in • B.C Senior Citizens $8.00 per couple per night the mountains. Please preserve the delicate alpine environment by staying on trails. Use caution on trails (shoulder season only). and be aware of snow, fallen trees and other natural hazards. • Firewood for sale by the PFO. For further information about trails and wilderness areas visit the volunteer information hut at Park
Photo: Krista Kaptein • Reservations are NOT taken, however the Headquarters, or ask park rangers. The Strathcona Wilderness Institute can be contacted for more campground is rarely full. detailed route information at 250-650-4304 (e-mail: [email protected]). Topographical maps and Indian Pipe near Buttle Lake guidebooks can be obtained locally at sports stores in Campbell River or Courtenay. If you wish to travel BUTTLE LAKE CAMPGROUND • Sand beach and playground. on less defined routes please be well prepared with a map and compass, proper equipment, and experience AUGER POINT (1) Loop Trail • Three easy nature trails begin here. in wilderness travel. Length: 400 metres. Time: 15 minutes. This Fish in Darkis Lake. forest is recovering from the fire of 1982. No camping. Please let a friend know where you plan to go and when you plan to return. • Gates open May 15 to September 30th. Picnicking facilities at trail-head and • Picnic tables, fire rings, a canoe and kayak launch access for Marble Mead- STRATHCONA WILDERNESS INSTITUTE water pumps and pit toilets. The is a non-profit organization whose mission is ows trailhead. to inspire awareness, appreciation and stewardship of the natural world through education and • Fee: $16.00 per party/night. $8.00 for extra vehicles. participation. The institute will provide a volunteer information service on weekends at park MARBLE MEADOWS (3) • B.C Senior Citizens $8.00 per couple per night headquarters at Buttle Lake from June 17 through to September 18, 2011. Length: 6.6 km. Time: 4-5 hours to the Alpine (shoulder season only). meadows. Elevation change: 1,250 metres. Steep, • Firewood for sale by the PFO. The FRIENDS OF STRATHCONA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect, preserve some bluffs. Trail starts at Phillips Creek marine • Some campsites can be reserved ahead of time [email protected] campsite on Buttle Lake. Access by boat from Auger and promote Strathcona Provincial Park. by contacting Discover Camping at Pt. or Karst Creek day use areas. Be aware of sub- Box 3404, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 5N5 1-800-689-9025 or by going online at merged stumps in the lake. Random camping is al- www.discovercamping.ca lowed in the meadows. Marble Meadows features wonderful viewpoints, alpine meadows and limestone CREST LAKE PICNIC AREA BUTTLE LAKE CORRIDOR formations. • Shaded picnic area, day use only. HIKING TRAILS, BOAT LAUNCH RAMPS, AND CAMPGROUNDS KARST CREEK BOAT LAUNCH RAMP, • Picnic tables and pit toilet, close to the lake. • Access left off Highway 28 heading West. TRAIL AND PICNIC AREA (1) • Short distance from Crest Mountain Trailhead. The trails are graded as follows: (1) Easiest (2) Moderate (3) Difficult A good concrete ramp located 4 km from Ralph Trail conditions: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/strath/ River Campground, and accessible from the West- DRIFTWOOD BAY GROUP CAMPGROUND min Rd. There is a large open grassy area plus sev- • Private, covered shelter with woodstove eral picnic tables and fire pits, TENNENT LAKE and tables, large grass field, fire pit, pit (3) and lots of room for parking. Karst Creek trail Buttle Lake Closed until further notice toilets, wheel chair access pit toilet, water is 1.3 km. It is no longer a loop walk due to the pump, swimming area. Length: 4 km. Estimated time 2-4 hours with an bridge being out. Time: 45 minutes. Observe Karst • Fee: $16.00 per party per night. elevation change of 840 metres. Trail access is from geological formations such as sink-holes with dis- $8.00 for extra vehicles. the parking lot at the mine. Walk past the yellow appearing and reappearing streams. • Firewood for sale by the PFO. gate on the gravel road for 1 km and across a bridge No camping. • Fee for non profit youth and school groups to the start of the trail which is a rough, rocky, steep $50.00 per night. old roadbed. Old-growth forest to sub-alpine. There WILD GINGER (1) Loop Trail • Tel. 250-474-1336 to book the campground. is an undefined route to access Mt. Myra here. Ten- Length: 800 metres. Time: 20 minutes. Access is Photo: Neil Havers nant Lake is dammed. Random camping is permitted. across the road from Ralph River Campground. The BACKCOUNTRY & MARINE CAMPING FEE ELK RIVER TRAIL trail follows the Ralph River. No camping. • $5.00 per night per person 13 years or older. (2-3) BEDWELL LAKE (3) Length: 11 km. Suggested time: 12 hours? Eleva- Length: 6 km. Drive over the Thelwood River bridge SHEPHERD CREEK (1) Loop Trail tion change: 600 metres. Trail starts at Hwy. 28 and at the south end of Buttle Lake, and turn left imme- Length: 1.5 km. Suggested time: 1 hour and 15 min- follows the Elk River Valley for 10 km before climb- diately onto the Jim Mitchell Road for 6.8 km. This utes. Access is across the road from Ralph River ing up to Landslide Lake. Bare rock sections. Camp is a rough gravel road not suitable for small vehicles. Campground. A shady walk along the Ralph River in designated camping areas only. Trail elevation change: 600 metres. Time 3-4 hours. then ascending to pass a lively marsh. See dogwood CREST MOUNTAIN TRAIL (3) Features river valley and old growth forest then trees in the spring. Closed until further notice rocky out cropping and a sub-alpine environment No camping. with excellent hiking and views. Camp in designated Length: 5 km. Time: 3-4 hours to the tarn. Steep PRICE CREEK TRAIL (2-3) with an elevation change of 1,250 metres. Caution areas at Baby Bedwell and Bedwell Lakes. Be aware of bears. Due to storm damage two wheel drive access Suggested time: 3-4 hours. Trail not maintained and required on single log creek crossing (the last good may proove difficult for inexperienced hikers. Trail- water). The snow stays late into the year on top. is difficult and motor homes are not recommended. Published for your convenience by Rick Gibson head can be accessed near the Thelwood Creek of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley. Random camping allowed. CREST CREEK CRAGS Bridge. Originally the only access route to Cream Technical climbing only. Picnic facilities. Climbers Lake and still only suitable for Advanced Hikers, FLOWER RIDGE TRAIL (3) If you are looking for more information, wish can explore a number of rocky bluffs in this area this trail can make a pleasant day hike through vary- Length: 6 km. Time to the subalpine ridge: 3-5 to advertise, or want to submit information in hours. Steep with an elevation change of 1,040 me- which is easily accessible from alongside Highway ing timbered areas if you turn around at or before future issues please refer to these contacts: tres. The trail begins at Westmin Road, climb an ad- 28. Climbers using the area do so at their own risk. the log crossing. The route beyond this log crossing ditional 200 metres from the top of trail to flat It is each climber’s responsibility to climb safely and is extremely rough and steep and snow lingers late Information: [email protected] ground for tents. Poor water. Panoramic views. ensure that they have the necessary skills to do so. into the summer. Camping and fires are not permitted. Editorial: Camping possible at halfway point. LOWER MYRA FALLS (1) Susan Quinn LADY FALLS Sales & Circulation: PHILLIPS RIDGE TRAIL TO ARNICA LAKE (2-3) (1) Length: 800 metres. Time: 30 minutes. Steep descent. Wendy Woodley Length: 900 metres. Time: 20 minutes. The trail Enjoy several beautiful water cascades. Length: 6.5 km. Time: 2-5 hours with an 250-897-3678 or [email protected] starts at Hwy. 28. Enjoy the cool spray from the falls. Use caution when approaching the creek, and su- elevation change of 800 metres. This is a well graded Design/Production: trail beginning at North Vancouver Island mine. Ob- Picnic facilities at trailhead. No camping. pervise small children. No camping. Havers Design serve old growth forest, a waterfall, and alpine ELK VIEWPOINT (1) BUTTLE LAKE BOAT LAUNCH Printed in Canada meadows. Designated camping area. Length: 400 metres. Time: 15 minutes. The trail A good, recently lengthened concrete launch. Lo- To read past issues of The Marmot go to UPPER MYRA FALLS (2) starts at Hwy. 28 and accesses a viewing platform cated 1 km south of the bridge at the junction and www.milehigh.ca Length: 3.3 km from the parking lot past the yellow where you may be able to see Vancouver Island’s only 1.5 km from Buttle Lake Campground. No gate. Drive through the mine area to find the park- unique Roosevelt elk. No camping. camping. The launch provides immediate access to the Rainbow Island marine campsites. ing lot. Time 1 ~ 1 1/2 hours. Elevation change: 100 LUPIN FALLS (1) Loop Trail metres. Trail follows gravel road for approx. 800 me- Length: 800 metres. Time: 15 minutes. Access from FORBIDDEN PLATEAU tres to the sign. Large trees. Views of Mt. Myra and a Westmin Road. Walk a circular trail through a cool AND PARADISE MEADOWS waterfall. No camping. Use caution due to winter forest to the waterfalls. No camping. Picnic facilities Refer to a separate flyer in “The Marmot” publica- storm damage. at the trail-head and a canoe and kayak launch ac- tion for information about this area which is acces- cess for Wolf River and Titus Mt. marine campsites. sible from Mount Washington. 22 THE MOUNT WASHINGTON MARMOT • SUMMER / FALL 2011 Strathcona Wilderness 2011 Programs Institute at Paradise Meadows Please remember to prepare for all weather conditions and to tread lightly in the park. Monday July 4, 1 pm: Centennial Event Sunday August 7, 9 am: Nature Walk; Insects Ecological Reserve Warden Day: Presentation on Identify and explore sub-alpine ecology with Comox Lake Bluffs Ecological Reserve with volunteer naturalist Tyler Johns. warden & botanist Helen Robinson. Pre-register: [email protected] or 250-650-4304 Sunday August 7, 1 pm: Nature Talk & Walk Photo: Krista Kaptein “The Four Storey Forest” Explore the working of an Sunday July 10, 1 pm: Nature Walk; Spring Flora individual tree and the collective energy of the forest & Fauna Early plants & birds of Paradise Meadows with forester and author Harold Macy. with expert naturalist Betty Brooks. Saturday August 13, 9 am: (Level 2 Hike) Croteau Saturday July 16, 10:30 am: Centennial Event Lake 6 hour hike with Robin & Jennifer Harrison Parks Day; Seeds & Salt Theatre Company of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Entertaining historical theatre for all ages. Cake and refreshments at noon, community displays all day. Sunday August 14, 1 pm: Nature Walk Mid-Sum- mer Flowers Experience the beauty of a sub-alpine 3 pm: Mice, Marmots & Mammoths Strathcona meadow with bilingual (German/English) botanist Park Mammals by Dave Nagorsen of Mammalia Fred Constabel. Biological Consulting. Pre-register: [email protected] or 250-650-4304 Sunday August 21, 1 pm: Nature Walk Sub-Alpine Birds & Insects Explore Paradise Ponds with birder Sunday July 17, 1 pm: Centennial Event and entomologist Terry Thormin. Alpine Ecology & the VI White-tailed Ptarmigan: by Kathy Martin of the Centre for Applied Alpine Studies Sunday August 21: Centennial Event Discover the many natural features of Strathcona Park! at UBC. Pre-register: [email protected] Family Fun Day for Every Body Join us on weekends through the summer, for a series of programs or 250-650-4304 An Accessible Wilderness Day. presented by the Strathcona Wilderness Institute, a non-profit charity. More details www.awsociety.org Special Note for persons with mobility issues: Sunday July 24, 1 pm: Nature Walk; Ethnobotany Interesting and useful plants of Paradise Meadows Saturday August 27, 9 am: (Level 3 Hike) Mt. Allan Paradise Meadows Centennial Loop Trail is wheelchair accessible! with local ethnobotanist Gwyn Sproule. Brooks 8 hour hike with Steve and Marlene Smith of To assist SWI with operational costs, donations for all programs the Strathcona Wilderness Institute. Moderately Saturday July 30, 10 am: (Level 1 Hike) Lake Helen are greatly appreciated ($5 to $10 is suggested). strenuous, off-trail bushwhacking. Dogs on leash OK. Mackenzie 4 hour hike with Mandy Vaughan of the Pre-register: [email protected] Nature Walks & Talks Two to three hour nature walks & talks on nature themes. Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Dogs on leash OK. or 250-650-4304 Level 1 Hikes Two to four hour guided hikes for all ages. Sunday July 31, 1pm: Centennial Event Sunday, September 28, 10 am: Art & Nature Talk; Five to seven hour guided hikes for intermediate hikers. Plants & Fungi with a Fun-Guy by Andy MacKinnon, Level 2 Hikes and Walk 'Great Photo-Ops in Paradise Meadows Level 3 Hikes Eight to ten hour guided hikes for fit hikers. Research Ecologist & co-author, "Plants of Coastal BC". Look for interesting subjects & compositions (no cam- Pre-register: [email protected] Centennial Events Special guest presentations for Strathcona Park’s 100th year. era needed) with nature photographer Chris Carter. or 250-650-4304 No pets please on all nature walks and hikes, unless otherwise noted. Sunday, August 28, 1 pm: Centennial Event Monday August 1, 10 am: (Level 1 Hike) Battleship Strathcona Park History Stories of Strathcona Park All programs start at the Strathcona Park Lake 3 hour hike with Kate Pierce of the Comox with Lindsay Elms of the Strathcona Wilderness Wilderness Centre at Paradise Meadows. District Mountaineering Club. Institute. The Centre is located at the BC Parks parking lot at the Paradise Meadows trailhead, next to Mount Washington’s Saturday August 6, 9 am: (Level 2 Hike) Mt. Elma Saturday September 3, 8 am: (Level 3 Hike) 7 hour hike with Heather and Rolf Kellerhals of the Raven Lodge. To get there: follow Inland Island Highway heading north from Courtenay or south from Campbell River; Amphitheatre Lake and Sid’s Cabin take Exit 130: Strathcona Parkway. Follow the paved road and signs to Raven Lodge where you’ll find ample parking. Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Moderately 10 hour hike with William Wright of the Comox Remember to dress for the weather and wear proper footwear. Bring water, snack or lunch, sunscreen, and bug spray. strenuous, some off-trail bushwhacking. Pre-register: District Mountaineering Club. 25 km, 1000 m. If you are setting out on your own expedition, visit the Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre for trail information or to [email protected] or 250-650-4304 elevation gain. Strenuous, some off-trail terrain. obtain maps or books. Pre-register: [email protected] or 250-650-4304 The Wilderness Centre will be open from July 1 to September 11 (9 am - 4 pm Saturdays, Sundays, holiday Mondays, and many weekdays) Dates may be extended depending Sunday September 4, 1 pm: Art & Nature Talk and on volunteers. Check the blog strathconapark.blogspot.com for the most up-to-date information. Walk - 'Image Hunting With Pencils & Brushes' Bring the media of your choice for an excursion into the meadows with watercolour artist Clive Powsey. Monday September 5, 10 am: (Level 1 Hike) Lake Helen Mackenzie 4 hour hike with Mandy Vaughan of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society. Dogs on leash OK.
For more Wilderness Centre program details contact the Summer Coordinator at [email protected] For the most up-to-date program schedule visit the blog strathconapark.blogspot.com Photo: Krista Kaptein Photo: Krista Kaptein