October 3, 2021
~ submitted by Maggie Warren
We left Nanaimo at 7 am for Crest Mountain. Driving between the Beauforts and Bowser, the clouds and rain increased and we were doubting our choice. Approaching Campbell River the skies cleared and we were much happier with our decision.
We met Nancy at the trailhead and were on our way by 9:30. There must have been significant rainfall in the previous few days as the lakes creeks and tarns were full and the trail quite wet. We ground our way up the steep switchbacks with few complaints and a great deal of talk until we gained the plateau. By that time some clouds had built up, but the sun predominated and the temperature was between 8 and 10 c.
We headed for the summit with some hesitation at the weather station. The alpine landscape was beautiful with all the tarns full, fresh and framed by the yellows, reds, and greens of fall foliage. Nancy stopped by a lovely tarn to brew coffee and the rest of us continued to the summit for lunch in the sun.
This was my fourth time on the plateau and the first time I’ve had any views from there. They are worthwhile with no sign of human activity to be seen. After lunch we meandered back by different routes and climbed up to the overlook for spectacular views of King’s Peak, Elkhorn, and the Elk River valley.
The weather remained good for the descent and we returned to the trailhead. The hike was 7.5 hours, 14.4 km, and 1360 meters elevation gain. Most of us headed to the Riptide in Campbell River for dinner before returning home. Thanks to all for their company on a great hike.