Backpacking - 5040 Peak via Cobalt Lake Trail

Weekend backpacking trip to 5040 Peak via Cobalt lake on Vancouver Island (Alberni-Clayoquot). Trail length is 7.9km with fairly steep 924m elevation. The micro spikes may or may not needed, but good to keep handy.

HIGH-LEVEL PLAN:
June 11 (Friday) depart from Victoria after work (say, 4:30pm or by 5pm - TBC), camp closer to the TH,
June 12 (Saturday) hike up, setup camp at the Cobalt Lake, go to the top with a day pack, return to the camp for overnight stay
June 13 (Sunday) hike back and drive to Victoria by late evening.

Each backpacker is expected to be self-sufficient with all necessary gear for this backpacking trip.

Carpooling is expected but additional hikers willing to drive own vehicle will be required if more than 4 hikers are going. TH is ~9km on Marion Creek Forest Service Road. As per the online info, 4X4 vehicles are definitely recommended but not necessary to get to the trailhead - most cars could get to 6km up easily.

An online group call must be attended by ALL between the participants ahead of the trip to discuss gear and logistics etc. For details of this hike, you can read this…
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/bedwell-lake

Please note the following:

1. Everyone must download, review, sign and submit the mandatory declaration & waiver forms while sending the RSVP.
   https://form.jotform.com/251556425279161
2. Suggested checklist for backpacking items is below but make sure you bring whatever you may need.
   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X_AG3G27Bd4gYclrsYHu1MoclnQfIwZw/view?usp=sharing
3. Everyone needs to pay their share of the cost for any overnight camping and applicable permit fee (if any). For carpool, the fuel cost will be shared between all the people sharing the car ride.
4. Pay EVENT FEE: $10 per attendee for all multi-day/overnight events, ONLY for defraying the annual subscription $$ payable to MEETUP.COM (EVENT PARTICIPATION FEES & PAYMENT POLICIES at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cZrCDu4Lzpf9GctyRMTgVKlvlbE2yNX4/view?usp=sharing)

DISCLAIMER
Events are led by volunteers who have no special training such as first aid, survival, etc. Participants are expected to be self-sufficient and competent hikers who accept the risks and hazards associated with an outdoor activity, along with the regular use of rough and steep trails in isolated areas and adverse conditions. The organizer may refuse participation where there are concerns that may impact safety and well-being of the group. The number of slots on this hike will be limited. If you are interested in joining, please RSVP quickly. Thank you.