MONDAY = Forbidden Plateau: Mount Elma
Details
Please read full description. Due to various reasons, this will be an in/out hike only (no loop along Lake Helen MacKenzie). Hoping the wind keeps the bugs at bay.
≈ 11-12km. I don't have exact stats for just an in/out.
You s/b @ minimum a strong “B/moderate” level hiker or higher to enjoy this hike. Not suitable for anyone with balance/cardio/knee deficiencies.
Snack break @ Mount Elma summit/viewpoint.
Pit toilet: @ Battleship Lake.
Carpooling: Pre-arrange beforehand - PM or comment below. Please limit your comments and/or delete moot ones...TY! Passengers pitch in for gas $$$.
Nanaimo suggested meeting spot: overflow parking lot adjacent to PetSmart @ 6950 Island Hwy. Park in stalls close to highway as the other area needs to be kept clear for delivery trucks to turn around in. 7:20ish suggested departure time, but final decision to be made by the drivers.
REMINDER: be prepared to show some of the Ten Essentials/First aid supplies that you carry in your pack-back. See Ten Essentials link below.
Hike along boardwalks & trail past Battleship and Kooso Lakes. Turn up to Mount Elma (1420m) which has a steep climb and then opens up to undulating alpine meadows with spectacular views along the way/at the end.
We return via the same route.
Alpine conditions can change rapidly, be prepared, bring warm & waterproof layers etc. Some sections are in full sun, so bring your sunglasses, sun hat & sunscreen. Bugs are out, bug hat/jacket and dope advised!
Expect wet, slippery, and muddy conditions with unstable terrain (the boardwalks may be in rough shape & have tripping hazards, the usual stones & roots, blowdown to navigate). Hiking boots/shoes with good tread required. Poles may be beneficial.
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. 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.
Please ensure you are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike with the group.
- See also the Ten Essentials: What to Bring - North Shore Rescue