Mount Washington

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
2-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
4.0 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.
445 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

The hike up Mount Washington is a 4.0 km point-to-point trail that will take you up one of the resort’s ski runs to reach a scenic viewpoint at the summit. From there, you will have sweeping views over Strathcona Provincial Park and the rugged peak of Mount Albert Edward. For the return trip, you will have the option to hike back down the mountain or take the scenic chairlift ride to return to the base.

Download the 10Adventures App

View Mount Washington on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Mount Washington

The trail leading up Mount Washington is a fairly easy hike that climbs uphill through the alpine village before traversing a ski run on the way to the summit. Although there is a moderate elevation gain of 445 m, this is largely spread out through a series of switchbacks as you climb up the peak. In addition to this, the route is clearly marked and easy to navigate, thanks to a series of red flags that define the route.

Setting out from Henry Road, begin hiking uphill toward the ski resort as you pass by the numerous chalets that dot the area. Reaching the end of the road, follow the trail as it winds past the lodge and to the right of the chair lifts. Here, hikers will pass by Bear Lodge before passing through a forested portion of the trail as it heads east. Roughly 850 m after the lodge, the trail will turn to the left and begin to climb more sharply uphill. Continue working your way uphill along the trail as it darts in and out of the tree cover and across several ski runs.

From here, the trail will turn to the north and follow a short series of switchbacks to the summit of Mount Washington. Hikers can take in the scenic views that stretch out into the beautiful expanse of Strathcona Provincial Park, including a sightline towards Mount Albert Edward in the distance. After you’ve admired the views, you can either head back down the trail to return to your vehicle or take the chairlift down the mountain.

Getting to the Mount Washington Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for Mount Washington from the BC-19 Highway in Courtenay, head north and make a left turn onto Strathcona Parkway. Continue for 17.3 km and make another left onto Nordic Drive. After 1.7 km, turn right onto Henry Road, and the trailhead will be on the right at 450 m.

Route Information

  • When to do

    June–November

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    One Way

Mount Washington Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Mount Washington Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs