Hidden away along Highway 4 between Port Alberni and Tofino/Ucluelet is a breathtaking hike leading you to a stunning alpine lake beneath jagged mountain peaks. While getting to the top of the peak itself requires climbing gear, getting to the lake is just a steep hike through the forest and up rock bluffs. Here is a guide to the Triple Peak hike on Vancouver Island.
At a glance:
- Length: 2km (one way)
- Time: about 2 hours (one way)
- Difficulty level: Moderate-High
- Elevation: 500m
The hike:
Triple Peak is 1525m and although it’s only 2km to the lake, the trail is steep and requires a bit of scrambling. The trail is marked by flags, but keep your eyes peeled, we found they weren’t always easy to spot. When you leave the parking lot you will take a short trail down to the creek. Once you’ve crossed, it’s all uphill from here. The first half of the hike is through a sheltered forest, but once you reach the first waterfall you become more exposed. After crossing multiple waterfalls the trail will be along steep rock bluff.
Be prepared, there are some climbing parts along the rock where ropes have been placed. You don’t need any climbing skills, but you do need to be fit and comfortable enough with hauling yourself up some ledges.
You know you are close when you see the peaks popping out from behind the last hill! At the bottom of this hill is the beautiful lake. It’s worth jumping in and going for a swim here!
You can hike up a bit past the lake, but to reach the summit of the peaks you need climbing gear and the right experience. There was hardly any snow left when we went in August.
How to get there:
If you’re driving from Port Alberni, take Highway 4 towards Ucluelet/Tofino. After about 46km turn left down Marion Main logging road. There is no sign for this road but it is marked on Google Maps. (Keep in mind there is no service on this highway or logging road). Drive about 10km down the logging road and past the 5040 Peak parking lot. (5040 is about 40min down the logging road, Triple Peak isn’t too far past it). At the fork, turn right, and just past that turn right again. This will take you down a hill to the parking lot. If you see the wooden Triple Peak sign you’re in the right place!
4WD is NECESSARY for this road to reach the Triple Peak parking lot. In the past high clearance was also necessary but as of July 2018 the road has been fixed and graded, so any 4WD vehicle can make it in. It’s always good to try and find updated road conditions online though.
What to bring (in summer):
- LOTS of water – this is no easy hike!
- A hat and sunscreen – the second half of the hike you are completely exposed
- Sturdy shoes – running shoes would probably be fine but we were glad we had our hiking boots
- Lunch/snacks – the drive and hike will make this an all day affair, bring food!
The Triple Peak hike on Vancouver Island is one of my favourites in the area, hope you enjoy!
Want to hike the summit just across the valley? Read about hiking to the peak of 5040! Are you continuing your journey towards Tofino and Ucluelet? Check out my post about the Best hikes in the Pacific Rim National Park or Best walks in Ucluelet! If you're looking for another incredibly stunning and blue alpine lake, definitely don't miss the Century Sam Lake hike!
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