CUMBERLAND HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Above the Treeline: A Five-Day Traverse from Mt. Washington to Comox Glacier
A five-day, guided traverse across the eastern reaches of Strathcona Provincial Park that keeps hikers above the tree line for sustained alpine ridgeline travel and ocean-facing panoramas.
Above the Treeline: A Five-Day Traverse from Mt. Washington to Comox Glacier.
Set out from Paradise Meadows and climb into the exposed high country of Strathcona Provincial Park, where five days of walking keep you largely above the treeline amid jagged peaks and broad views that sweep west across Strathcona’s summits and east to the Pacific and the Coast Mountains. The route is a demanding alpine traverse that rewards seasoned hikers with expansive, seldom-seen vistas on Vancouver Island.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sustained Alpine Vistas
Most of the traverse stays above the tree line, delivering extended panoramas of rugged Strathcona peaks to the west and the Pacific Ocean and Coast Mountains to the east — a constant theatrical backdrop for the entire five days.
High Ridges and Varied Terrain
The itinerary threads alpine ridgelines and exposed slopes with daily distances of roughly 6–12 km and elevation gains that commonly range from several hundred metres, requiring steady footing over rock, scree and occasional snow.
Led, Technical, and Self-Reliant
This is a guided five‑day expedition with group technical equipment provided; participants must be prepared to carry a heavy pack and manage their personal gear across mixed alpine conditions.
What the day feels like
What the Traverse Feels Like
Expect five consecutive days of alpine travel: starting from Paradise Meadows you climb into exposed country and remain above treeline for most of the trip, moving at a moderate pace with shorter, fewer breaks while negotiating uneven ground, occasional rock scrambling and the broad, wind-swept shoulders that define this part of Vancouver Island.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this traverse suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Participants must provide personal gear for five days in varied weather; harnesses and some glacier gear are personal items (some items are available to rent).
Included: five days led by a certified ACMG guide and group technical equipment (e.g., ropes). Not included: transportation to/from trailheads, meals, personal snacks and most personal gear.
Typical daily distances run 6–12 km with daily elevation gain commonly in the range of several hundred metres; the route involves uneven terrain, occasional rock scrambling and exposure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Mt Washington to Comox Glacier Traverse?
The standard offering is a five-day traverse.
What fitness and experience level are required?
Hikers should be able to manage 5–15 km per day with up to 1,500 m of elevation gain while carrying a heavy pack and be comfortable on snow, scree and steep slopes.
Is the trip guided and what equipment is provided?
Yes — the trip is led for five days by a certified ACMG guide and group technical equipment such as ropes is provided; personal glacier gear and harnesses are not included though some items are available to rent.
Are meals and transportation included?
No — meals, personal snacks and transportation to and from trailheads are not included in the trip price.
Can the trip length be adjusted?
The trip is priced as a five-day excursion; contact the operator to discuss trip-length adjustments for your group.
What terrain and conditions will we encounter?
Expect varied terrain including exposed alpine ridges, rocky slopes, scree and possible snowfields; weather can be diverse over five days and participants should be prepared.