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    Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1.5-2h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    6.6 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    152 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop Trail is a 6.6 km hiking circuit southwest of Nanaimo that winds through the forest around these two scenic lakes. Along the trail, hikers can expect some rugged hiking through overgrown sections of trail and some charming views across each of the lakes. Make sure to bring a GPS along for the hike, as the route isn’t very well marked and it can be a bit tricky to navigate. Also, remember to share the trail with other outdoor enthusiasts, as horseback riders also frequent the trails in the area.

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    Route Description for Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop Trail

    Although the route is a bit overgrown in some areas, the Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop is a fantastic hiking route that will provide some epic views and a real sense of adventure as you do some light bushwhacking along the rugged trail. Setting out from the trailhead, follow the path south through the dense cover of the forest on a course that skirts around McKay Lake. Here, the trail will begin to climb up a small hill and provide some scenic views of some snow-capped mountains off in the distance to the west. Continue south along the trail as it loops around the southern shore of Crystal Lake and offers a nice view across its charming waters. After turning back to the north, the trail will eventually pass by the smaller McKay Lake and its marshy surroundings before arriving back at the trailhead where you began your hike.

    Getting to the Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop Trail Trailhead

    To reach the Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop trailhead from the Nanaimo airport, head west along Spruston Road for 8.5 km and you will find the trailhead on the left.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      April-November

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop Trail Elevation Graph

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    Crystal and McKay Lakes Loop Trail Reviews

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