Shepherd Creek 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.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.8 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.
62 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Shepherd Creek Trail is a quick 1.8 km hike in Strathcona Provincial Park that offers a perfect way to get out and explore the woodland landscape near the Ralph River Campground. While the trail is family-friendly, it also climbs up a series of small switchbacks that can make the route more difficult for some hikers. Along the route, you will have some excellent views of the terrain around Buttle Lake, including the rushing waters of Shepherd Creek and partial mountain views through the tree cover.

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Route Description for Shepherd Creek Trail

Although short, the Shepherd Creek Trail is a pleasant hike that climbs uphill through the forest alongside the creek and provides some views over the immediate area. The trail is primarily made up of dirt paths that form a series of switchbacks and alleviate the physical strain of the uphill climb.

Along the route hike, you can head down to the rushing waters of the creek to explore its shores, and you will also have some partial views of Mount Phillips standing tall across the lake. Near the top of the trail, hikers will pass by a small pond before beginning their descent through the beautiful forest landscape towards the Ralph River Campground. Hikers should note that the last stretch of the trail follows closely alongside the road, so exercise caution as there may be vehicles passing by.

Getting to the Shepherd Creek Trail Trailhead

To reach the parking area for the Shepherd Creek Trail from Campbell River, make your way west on BC-28 for 47.2 km and continue straight onto Westmin Road. Follow this south for 25.9 km to reach the trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Ralph River Campground

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Shepherd Creek Trail Elevation Graph

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