Comox Glacier

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
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.
8-11.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
18.0 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.
1,804 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Comox Glacier

The Comox Glacier Trail is a difficult 18.0 km out-and-back trail that climbs steeply uphill to traverse the glacier and surrounding mountains. This route should only be attempted by experienced hikers as the glacial terrain presents a range of hazards that make the route unsafe for the casual hiker. Along the route, you will hike uphill through stunning forests and the picturesque alpine terrain surrounding the glacier.

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Route Description for Comox Glacier

The Comox Glacier Trail is a challenging and dangerous hike that should only be attempted by experienced hikers with knowledge of traversing glacial terrain. Due to the constantly retreating and changing nature of the massive body of snow and ice, the area surrounding the glacier can be dangerous for casual hikers. Additionally, the road leading up to the trailhead is owned by a private logging company and is only accessible at certain points of the year. Make sure to check the accessibility of the trail before you set out on your trek and leave yourself enough time for the return leg of your journey so that you are not locked in by the 6 pm gate closure.

Although this route is difficult, experiencing the Comox Glacier is a unique and breathtaking experience in Strathcona Provincial Park that will leave you with fond memories of your time traversing its frosty expanse. The route utilizes the same trailhead as the nearby Century Sam Lake Trail but breaks off to the left at the initial fork on a path leading up and around the mountains.

You will climb uphill through a beautiful stretch of forest along the trail before breaking out onto the ridgeline with an unreal view of the glacier. From here, you will begin a series of steep ascents along the rocky terrain with rope installations at specific points to aid in your climb. Reaching the glacier, you will need to navigate the icy terrain towards Mount Arthur Evans and the northern tip of the Comox Glacier. After completing the initial stretch of your journey, take in the breathtaking views over Strathcona before carefully making your way back along the trail to return to your vehicle before the 6 pm gate closure.

Getting to the Comox Glacier Trailhead

To get to the trailhead for the Comox Glacier from Courtenay, make your way southwest along Lake Trail Road and turn left onto Comox Lake Road after 4.5 km. Continue for 16.7 km and turn left to stay on the same road for 1.5 km. Make a right on Cruikshank Road and keep on it for 3.1 km. Make a right turn onto Cruikshank Main Road and continue for 5.3 km. Turn right again and keep straight for 5.0 km to reach the parking area. This is a privately owned road, so check in advance as to whether the trail is accessible.

Route Information

  • When to do

    June–August

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Comox Glacier Elevation Graph

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