Bald Mountain

While the upper portion of the Bald Mountain trail is a bit rugged and overgrown, it adds a bit more of a sense of adventure as you work your way uphill towards the amazing vista atop the mountain. If you plan on heading to the summit, make sure to wear proper hiking footwear and prepare for a bit of light bushwhacking, but don’t worry about bringing a GPS or trail map, as the route is still fairly well marked right up to the top.

Setting out from the parking area, follow the trail to the east as it skirts along the edge of a wetland area to your right before turning back towards the west to begin the climb up the hillside. Here, the trail will begin to traverse a series of switchbacks that pass through a stretch of light tree cover as you gain some elevation along the route. Continue uphill until you reach the top of the ridge and enjoy the amazing views of the surrounding area before making your way along the unmaintained portion of the hike. Push through the overgrown brush and follow along the trail markers until you arrive at the vista atop the summit of Bald Mountain. From here, you will have a spectacular view overlooking Cowichan Lake and the rugged landscape of Vancouver Island. After taking in the views, head back down the trail to return to the parking area below.