The best walks and hikes in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)
4.5
(132)
819
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) features diverse landscapes, encompassing over 1,300 hectares with prominent peaks like Mount Arrowsmith (1,891 meters) and Mount Cokely. The park transitions through several biogeoclimatic zones, from coastal western hemlock forests on lower slopes to wind-swept alpine terrain at higher elevations. High mountain lakes such as Jewel Lake, Fishtail, and Hidden Lake are also present, offering clear water and mountain views.
Best hiking trails in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)
- The most popular hiking route is Jewel Lake via Saddle Trail — Mount Arrowsmith Regional Park, a 3.3 miles (5.4 km) moderate trail that takes about 3 hours 8 minutes to complete. This route leads to Jewel Lake, passing through old-growth forests and offering expansive alpine views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is CPR Bridge and Waterfall loop from CPR Trailhead, a moderate 6.2 miles (9.9 km) path. This historic trail requires good fitness and features significant elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Cathedral Grove Trail loop from MacMillan Provincial Park, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) trail leading through ancient Douglas Fir forest, often completed in about 30 minutes.
- Hiking in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) is defined by old-growth forests, alpine terrain, and high mountain lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to demanding alpine expeditions.
- The routes in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 700 hikers have used komoot to explore Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)'s varied terrain.
Last updated: July 18, 2026
2
hikers
5.38km
03:07
570m
570m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(8)
48
hikers
9.92km
04:01
760m
760m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(61)
357
hikers
1.84km
00:31
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(37)
261
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(11)
71
hikers
1.71km
00:28
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A large park that runs along both sides of the street.
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This expansive wilderness park on Vancouver Island centres around the dramatic summit of Mount Arrowsmith and its surrounding ridges. With access from forested trails, old logging roads, and alpine passages, it offers routes for both day-hikers and seasoned mountaineers alike. Rich in ecological diversity—from moss-draped lower slopes to wind-swept alpine meadows—the park rewards those who venture in with big views, quiet forests, and a true sense of mountain wilderness.
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This steep ridge route climbs up to the saddle between Mount Arrowsmith and Mount Cokely, offering expansive alpine views once you reach the high point. The trail starts in forest, transitions into exposed terrain, and is best suited to hikers with solid footing and some experience.
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Set into the rugged alpine terrain of Mount Arrowsmith, Jewel Lake is a pristine mountain basin with clear water and sweeping views of the surrounding ridges. Accessed via the Saddle Trail, the approach passes through old-growth forest, crosses a ridge, then descends into this remote lake basin where trail conditions get steeper and less defined. It’s a rewarding stop for those comfortable with moderate elevation and some scrambling.
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A section of the Cathedral Grove walking tour.
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A short drive from Port Alberni lies MacMillan Park, directly off Highway 4. The park features the Cathedral Grove, a stand of giant Douglas firs; some trees are over 800 years old. North of the road are ancient Western Red Cedar trees. A severe storm in late 1997 severely damaged the stand. (May 19, 2025) https://bcparks.ca/macmillan-park/
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located in MacMillan Provincial Park at the West end of Cameron Lake, Cathedral Grove is the only highway accessible stand of ancient Douglas Fir forest on Vancouver Island.
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Nice little loop on each side of the country road. But please be careful when parking, it is sometimes quite tight. Still a nice place for a few steps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)?
There are 7 hiking routes documented in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) on komoot. These range from easy walks to more challenging moderate trails, offering diverse experiences across the park's varied landscapes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the park?
Yes, Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) offers several easy options suitable for families. The Cathedral Grove Trail loop from MacMillan Provincial Park is a short 1.8 km walk through ancient Douglas Fir forest. Another great choice is the Little Qualicum Falls loop from Upper Waterfall, which is 1.7 km and features beautiful waterfalls.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on hikes in this region?
The park features a wide range of terrain, from old-growth forests with moss-draped trees on lower slopes to exposed alpine areas towards the peaks of Mount Arrowsmith and Mount Cokely. Elevation gains can vary significantly; easy trails like those around Little Qualicum Falls have minimal elevation, while moderate routes like the Jewel Lake via Saddle Trail involve over 500 meters of ascent.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)?
Yes, the park is home to beautiful waterfalls. The CPR Bridge and Waterfall loop from CPR Trailhead is a moderate 9.9 km hike that features a significant waterfall. Additionally, the easy Little Qualicum Falls – Tree Stump by the River loop offers views of the impressive Little Qualicum Falls.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
Hikers can explore diverse landscapes including ancient Douglas Fir forests, high mountain lakes like Jewel Lake, Fishtail, and Hidden Lake, and the prominent peaks of Mount Arrowsmith and Mount Cokely. The Cathedral Grove Trail is particularly notable for its ancient trees.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)?
The komoot community rates the hiking in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from old-growth forests to alpine views, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the park?
Yes, several trails in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn) are designed as loops. Examples include the easy Cathedral Grove Trail loop from MacMillan Provincial Park and the CPR Bridge and Waterfall loop from CPR Trailhead, which is a moderate option.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)?
The best time to visit depends on your desired experience. In late spring and early summer, the alpine meadows burst into bloom with vibrant flowers. For higher elevation trails, summer and early autumn generally offer the most favorable conditions, while lower elevation forest trails can be enjoyed for much of the year.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)?
While the region is popular for outdoor activities, specific dog regulations can vary by trail and park area. It's always recommended to check the official park rules or local signage at trailheads regarding pet policies before heading out with your dog.
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in the park?
The park is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers might spot white-tailed ptarmigan on the high ridges. There's also a possibility of encountering larger animals such as black bears, cougars, wolves, and elk, particularly in more remote areas. Always be aware of your surroundings and practice wildlife safety.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for experienced and adventurous hikers, the park offers demanding trails. While not explicitly listed in the komoot routes provided, the region is known for challenging routes like the Judges Route to the summit of Mount Arrowsmith (over 1,000m elevation gain) and the historic Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail, which can be a long and difficult trek.
What are the highest points accessible by trail in the park?
The park encompasses the prominent peaks of Mount Arrowsmith (1,891 meters) and Mount Cokely. While some trails lead to alpine areas with expansive views, reaching the very summits often involves challenging, unmaintained routes suitable for experienced mountaineers.
Most popular routes in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)
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