Cortes Island is a day hiker’s paradise. Easily accessible and well-maintained trails allow hikers to explore some of the last remaining old growth forest on the BC Coast.
Important Hiker’s Information
- Trail maps are available ($3) at general stores and Cortes Museum.
- Hard copies of these maps are available at the trailheads and at the Cortes Museum:
Short Hikes on Cortes Island
For a short hike (1-2 hours) in Cortes Island’s forest, try some of our most popular trails: the Whaletown Commons, School-to-Sea Hike in Manson’s Landing Provincial Park, Hank’s Beach, and the Siskin Lane trails.
If you’re looking to walk the shoreline, come down to Smelt Bay Provincial Park. Though it’s beautiful all the time, the walking is best when the tide is out, especially if you enjoy exploring tide pools and watching the shorebirds, herons, and eagles. Maybe you’ll see seals, sealions, or even an orca out to sea! On a low tide, walk north from Smelt Bay to Manson’s Landing (~2-3 hours) or south to the tip of Cortes before looping around towards Hollyhock beach (~2-3 hours) — or just go as long as you like before turning back to the parking lot.
Half Day Hikes on Cortes Island
More adventurous hikers should consider climbing Easter Bluff or Green Mountain. On a clear day, the views to the mainland’s Coast Range, Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea is breathtaking. Kw’as Park has over 170 acres of protected forest between Hague Lake and Gunflint Lake, including some stands of old growth and relics of Cortes’ logging history.
On the northern part of the island, follow the lush trails to Green Valley, the Children’s Forest, Grandmother Grove, or Carrington Bay. All of these options can be pleasantly explored in a half-day or more. Remember to bring water and food, and keep your eyes open for wolves!
An Adventure in Von Donop Marine Provincial Park
For a real off the beaten track Cortes adventure, visit Ha’thayim (Von Donop) Marine Provincial Park. Located on the northwestern tip of Cortes Island, this rugged 1277 hectares encompasses numerous lakes, a saltwater lagoon, an estuary as well as old-growth forest. Challenge yourself by climbing Cliff Peak, the highest point on Cortes Island. Hiking and wilderness camping is permitted. For more information, visit the local markets or the Cortes Museum to buy a Cortes Island Trail Map. Look for the trailhead by the Klahoose Salmon Enhancement Facility on Whaletown Road, up the hill several kilometers from Tork Road.
If you have any updates on Cortes hiking trails, please email us at: ourCortes@gmail.comLatest updates about Cortes Island Hiking Trails: