🌲 Adventure Spotlight: Mount Arrowsmith

Towering over the Alberni Valley and the Oceanside region, Mount Arrowsmith is Vancouver Island’s highest mountain visible from the east coast—offering stunning views, alpine meadows, and an unforgettable day-hike challenge.

Quick Stats:

📍 Location: Between Port Alberni and Qualicum Beach

🏔️ Elevation: 1,819 m (5,968 ft) — highest peak south of Strathcona Park

🥾 Trail Options: Judges Route (most popular), Saddle Route, and Unjudges Route

⏱️ Hiking Time: 5–7 hours round trip

🎒 Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced (scrambling required near summit)

🐾 Dog-Friendly? Yes, but best for seasoned trail dogs with mountain legs!

Fun Facts:

• Mount Arrowsmith is part of the UNESCO Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region, a globally recognized ecological zone

• On clear days, you can see both coasts of the Island—with sweeping views of the Georgia Strait and Alberni Inlet

• It’s believed the mountain was named by Captain George Richards in 1853 in honor of British cartographers Aaron and John Arrowsmith

  
  

Local Tip:Start early, bring poles, and pack layers—the weather can change quickly above the treeline. And don’t forget your camera… the summit views are unreal.