Nanaimo Day Hikes Meetup

So this is a moderate hike beginning from the Benson Regional Park parking lot. We will travel along Outer bypass and continue with a series of trails till we access the ridge for a view of the city before returning to the parking area. A little more climbing than usual on this hike. Just a walk in the woods though with a bit of a view.

Disclaimer: You are fully aware that your hosts are volunteers and not trained guides and you assume all responsibility for your own safety and well-being.
All participants are expected to act as a responsible member of the group. Shared values of this trip include personal responsibility and mutual reliance. All participants are responsible for assessing the current road conditions, current weather conditions, your current physical condition and current trail conditions for the trip and you are responsible for your safety and well-being. You are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike with the group.

Weather information: https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-20_metric_e.html

Carpooling is suggested. Plenty of parking though.
This longer version of the Little Mtn. Starts at the same place, but loops around the south west side of the ridge/viewpoint before ascending the ridge. About 10km & 3 hours duration, 50 M elevation gain. Thus providing more exercise.
The view of this expansive, acreaged, & scenic valley behind Parksville, is only 15 minutes away, right next door. Facing west, instead of toward the straight & a city. Excellent view of Arrowsmith if the clouds are high. Last year we saw 2 black bears in the valley below the ridge. Probably looking for berries.

We will walk from/park at, Evergreen Way, under the steel tower power lines (0.5Km),,,, off of Allsbrook Rd. (2.8Km) from Bellevue Rd.(turn right off Allsbrook Rd. onto Evergreen, not left). See & expand the attached map.
Walking first along the powerline, then turning uphill along Matterson Rd. an overgrown two track road for a few km . Back through forested trails along the S/E side of the Mtn. Finally ascending the ridge along steep narrow trails to the view point. Almost scrambling in one or two spots.
(persons with cardio or leg, balance deficiencies should avoid this event, you need to be physically fit)
No dogs. No toilets.
Any significant wind or precipitation forecast & this event will be rerouted/rescheduled.
https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-20_metric_e.html
Disclaimer- You are fully aware that your hosts are volunteers and not trained guides and you assume all responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By signing up to this event, you agree to our waiver available here: https://www.meetup.com/Nanaimo-Day-Hikes-Meetup/pages/22791742/waiver/.
All participants are expected to act as a responsible member of the group. Shared values of this trip include personal responsibility and mutual reliance.