Lake Helen MacKenzie
View PhotosLake Helen MacKenzie
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The hike to Lake Helen MacKenzie is a quintessential Vancouver Island hike. The well-maintained hiking trail out to Lake Helen MacKenzie comes fully equipped with board walks and wide, gravel walkways. As you venture through old growth forests, the incredibly beautiful ambiance of the plateau fills your heart with delight and wonder.
Getting there
If coming from Campbell River, head south along the Inland Island Highway (BC-19 S). Turn west onto the Strathcona Parkway, following signs for Mt Washington Resort. Follow this road for 19.0km as it gains approximately 1000m of elevation. When you arrive at the junction beside the ski resort, hang a left towards the Raven Lodge. Park near the Raven Lodge where you will also find a large map and the Strathcona Wilderness Institute, where you can buy a map or some treats.
About
| When to do | June - October |
| Backcountry Campsites | Yes, many camping opportunities throughout Forbidden Plateau |
| Toilets | At trailhead and Lake MacKenzie |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Elevation
Weather
Detailed Description
The hike out to Lake Helen MacKenzie is a great one, not too tough and a classic, family-friendly Vancouver Island hike.
Head down from the parking lot and begin on the trail. The first section of trail heading out to Lake Helen MacKenzie is very well maintained, including raised wooden walkways. At the numerous junctions follow the signs for Helen MacKenzie and Mt. Albert Edward.
As you hike you will pass by numerous sub-alpine glades and small ponds. There are many other lakes on the plateau, all a short way from the trailhead, so the possibilities for exploration are endless.
Quite quickly you will arrive on the northwest shore of Lake Helen MacKenzie. You can continue to the left to enjoy numerous other views, and to find the campground. The rugged face of Mt. Elma and Mt Brooks loom over the opposite side of the impressively large lake.
Insider Hints
Stop in at the Strathcona Park Wilderness Institute and pick up a map.
There are numerous short trails from the trail head. These trails connect the myriad of lakes on the plateau, so you can hike for as long as you like.
You can usually find great deals to stay at Mount Washington in summer, check out Airbnb for more.
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