Mount Tzouhalem

With an intermediate length, good variation in terrain, and breathtaking scenery, the Mount Tzouhalem Hike is an ideal day trip for both casual and experienced hikers alike. While the trail does feature some small gains in elevation, these are largely spread throughout the hike, with only a few steeper sections that make it a pleasant hike through the forest. As mentioned, this route is part of a dense network of multi-use trails in the area, so make sure to bring a GPS or else you might get pulled off the main route.

Setting out from the parking area, follow the trail to the southeast and into the thick, shady cover of the forest. The real views will come a little later on in the hike, so take some time to enjoy the amazingly atmospheric forest setting as you begin to traverse the loop portion of the journey. After hiking through the trees, you will eventually come to a scenic lookout over Cowichan Bay in the southeast corner of the trail.

After appreciating the views, follow the route to the west to arrive at the rocky lookout at the Mount Tzouhalem Cross that was installed on the hillside in 1976 as part of Easter celebrations. From this hilltop perch, you will have a commanding view across the Cowichan Valley, stretching from the bay in the east to the city of Duncan. After taking in the views, head back to the main trail and follow it to the north through the web of intersecting routes to arrive back at the parking area where you began.