Curious about what Mount Washington Vancouver Island has to offer? Snowmobiling is one of the thrilling winter sports activities available at Mount Washington Vancouver Island. The snowfall average at Mount Washington Vancouver Island is impressive, making it a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts. This year-round resort lets you ski, snowboard, hike, and bike in breathtaking landscapes. Located in the Beaufort Mountains close to Comox Valley, visitors also enjoy a range of lodging and dining options. Dive in to discover all the activities and experiences awaiting you at Mount Washington, Vancouver Island!
Key Takeaways
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Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers year-round adventure with world-class skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking, set against panoramic views of Vancouver Island. The summit elevation of Mount Washington Alpine Resort provides breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain for enthusiasts.
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The resort features diverse winter activities such as fat biking, snowmobiling, dog sledding tours, and cross-country skiing on a vast trail network, with a notable snowfall average that caters to all skill levels and family-friendly fun.
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In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, and events like the BC Seafood Festival, complemented by a range of accommodation and dining options for a complete retreat experience.
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the Beaufort Mountains, just a stone’s throw away from the Comox Valley, Mount Washington Alpine Resort has been captivating hearts since its establishment in 1979. Founded by visionaries Henry Norie and Alex Linton, the resort quickly became a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of:
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ocean to alpine views
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world-class skiing and snowboarding
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hiking and mountain biking trails
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a vibrant village atmosphere
With a summit elevation of 1,588 meters, Mount Washington Alpine Resort provides breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain that enhance its appeal.
These features seem to whisper tales of the wild, untamed spirit of British Columbia, especially along its eastern edge.
Today, the resort’s alluring charm continues to draw visitors from near and far, promising a year-round retreat that’s both exhilarating and serene.
Discover Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Mount Washington Alpine Resort is more than just a destination; it’s a journey that begins with the ascent to the summit of the coastal mountain range, where the panoramic views of Vancouver Island’s Pacific coastline await. Here, at the pinnacle of the island’s adventure offerings, the resort boasts a summit elevation that promises ski enthusiasts an experience like no other.
With a ski terrain crafted to perfection and a snowfall average that rivals the best, Mount Washington stands proudly as a premier ski destination nestled within the rugged beauty of the Beaufort Mountains.
Winter Activities at Mount Washington
As snowflakes dance through the crisp mountain air, Mount Washington Alpine Resort transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an array of activities that go beyond the traditional ski slopes. The resort’s impressive snowfall average contributes to the pristine conditions for winter activities. Here, the adventure is as varied as the snowflakes themselves, with fat biking, winter hiking, and snowmobiling trails carving paths through the white-blanketed landscape.
With a vertical rise that challenges even the most seasoned skiers and a snowfall average that ensures pristine conditions, Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
From the thrill of controlling a team of eager sled dogs to the laughter that fills the air at the tubing hills, the ski resort, with its nordic facilities, is a hub of winter excitement in the ski area.
Skiing and Snowboarding
The call of the mountain beckons skiers and snowboarders to experience the thrill of descent at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. With over 1,700 acres of alpine terrain including 82 trails, the Mount Washington Resort caters to all skill levels, from the novice taking their first glide to the expert carving through the powdery bliss of the Outback’s double black diamond playground.
The resort’s five chair lifts, including the high-speed Boomerang Quad, whisk riders to the summit’s 1,590 meters, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey down the mountain’s 505-meter vertical rise. The summit elevation provides a breathtaking view and an exhilarating start to your descent. And with an average snowfall of 11 meters, the conditions here are nothing short of legendary.
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Trails
For those who find their peace in the rhythmic glide of cross country skiing or the soft crunch of snowshoes, Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers an extensive trail network. With a snowfall average that ensures optimal conditions, the resort features 55 km of meticulously groomed cross-country trails and 25 km dedicated to snowshoeing, making it a Nordic paradise. The resort also boasts excellent nordic facilities, ensuring a top-notch experience for all visitors. At the heart of this winter haven is a dedicated Nordic lodge, providing enthusiasts with the facilities and equipment necessary to embark on their snowy adventures, all set against the backdrop of the vast and pristine Strathcona Provincial Park.
Family-Friendly Winter Fun
Families flock to Mount Washington Alpine Resort to create cherished winter memories together. The gentle slopes of the Tube Park invite laughter and joy as parents and children alike slide down the snow-covered hills under the twinkling lights. Snowshoeing trails available for families offer another delightful way to explore the serene winter wonderland. Fat biking trails offer a unique way to explore the winter landscape, providing an exciting alternative for those looking for a break from skiing or snowboarding.
Here, every family can find their own perfect blend of fun and adventure, wrapped in the warmth of shared experiences, including the unique fat biking trails.
Hiking Trails and Scenic Tours
Mount Washington Alpine Resort serves as the gateway to a hiker’s paradise, offering hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. Some of the trails you can explore include:
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Top of the World trail: a short but breathtaking 1 km hike that rewards visitors with stunning sea-to-sky panoramas
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Linton’s Trail: a more challenging path that meanders through alpine meadows
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West Summit Ridge Trail: another challenging trail that takes you through rugged peaks
No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable hiking experience.
Strathcona Provincial Park, accessible from the resort, offers additional hiking opportunities with its diverse flora and fauna, making every hike an opportunity to connect with the wild beauty of Vancouver Island.
Mountain Biking and Ziplining
The thrill-seekers among us, including mountain bikers, will find their adrenaline fix at Mount Washington Alpine Resort’s Bike Park and zipline experiences. From the hair-raising drops of the Monster Mile to the high-speed excitement of the Eagle’s Flight Zipline Tour, the resort offers a variety of terrain and challenges to satisfy every level of adventure seeker.
With trails opening as early as June 28, the summer season at Mount Washington promises non-stop action, where the rush of the ride is matched only by the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
BC Seafood Festival and Other Events
Celebrating Vancouver Island’s rich seafood heritage, Mount Washington Alpine Resort hosts the annual BC Seafood Festival. From June 21-23, the Comox Valley comes alive with the flavors of the ocean, offering visitors a chance to indulge in culinary experiences that highlight the bounty of the local waters.
It’s an event that combines the love for fine food with the scenic grandeur of the resort, creating a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Accommodation and Dining at Mount Washington
After a day filled with adventure, Mount Washington Alpine Resort welcomes visitors back with a variety of lodging and dining options. Whether you’re looking for the cozy comfort of a cabin, the luxury of a chalet, or the convenience of a full-service hotel, the resort has the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate. And with dining choices that range from quick bites to gourmet meals, both at the resort and in the nearby Comox Valley, your culinary needs are well catered for, ensuring you have the energy for whatever the next day brings.
Lodging Options
From the intimate setting of a mountain cabin to the slopeside convenience of a condominium, the lodging options at Mount Washington Alpine Resort cater to every taste and budget. The chalets, many offering ski-in/ski-out access, provide a luxurious retreat for those looking to indulge, while the full-service hotels ensure that every guest’s stay is as comfortable as it is memorable.
With accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, a stay at Mount Washington is as much a part of the experience as the adventures outside.
Dining and Restaurants
Whether fueling up for a day on the trails or winding down with a sumptuous meal, the dining options at Mount Washington Alpine Resort satisfy every craving. On-mountain eateries like Eagle View Bistro offer convenient, delicious fare for those eager to get back to the slopes, while the Comox Valley’s vibrant dining scene entices visitors with local favorites like Locals Restaurant and The Blackfin Pub.
From casual to fine dining, the culinary journey at Mount Washington is a reflection of the island’s rich gastronomic culture.
Getting to Mount Washington
The journey to Mount Washington Alpine Resort is an integral part of the adventure, with various transportation options available to suit your preferences. Whether you’re driving from Victoria via Strathcona Parkway, taking a scenic ferry ride from Vancouver, or flying in to Comox Valley Airport, the resort is easily accessible and well worth the trip.
With clear, well-marked routes guiding you through the island’s picturesque landscapes, getting to Mount Washington is a delightful prelude to the experiences that await.
Transportation Options
Reaching Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a breeze with the well-connected transportation options on Vancouver Island. The resort is just a short drive from the Inland Island Highway, with winter travelers reminded to equip their vehicles with winter tires and chains for the journey along Strathcona Parkway.
For those crossing the Strait of Georgia, multiple daily ferry schedules offer a smooth transition from the mainland to Nanaimo, where the island adventure begins. With the Comox International Airport nearby, even distant visitors can easily find their way to the mountain’s allure.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors to Mount Washington Alpine Resort, take note: the key to a seamless experience lies in preparation. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:
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Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with appropriate tires and chains.
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Stay informed on road conditions through Drive BC.
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Check the latest transit schedules to plan your journey to the resort.
By planning ahead and following these tips, you can ensure that your trip to the resort is as enjoyable as the stay itself.
Remember, the mountain’s beauty is matched by its ruggedness, and being well-prepared allows you to fully embrace all that Mt Washington, also known as Mount Washington, has to offer.
Stunning Views and Natural Beauty
The natural beauty of Mount Washington Alpine Resort is nothing short of awe-inspiring. With trails that offer mesmerizing views of alpine landscapes and the glistening Salish Sea, the resort is a testament to the splendor of British Columbia. Whether you’re standing a mile above sea level at the summit or exploring the ancient forests of Strathcona Provincial Park, the vistas are bound to leave you breathless.
This is a place where the grandeur of nature is on full display, inviting visitors to pause and marvel at the world’s beauty.
Summary
In summary, Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a treasure trove of experiences, offering something for everyone across all seasons. From the adrenaline rush of winter sports to the tranquility of summer hikes, the resort’s blend of adventure and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination on Vancouver Island. With a range of accommodation and dining options to complement your stay, Mount Washington is not just a getaway—it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of the island’s wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of winter activities are available at Mount Washington Alpine Resort?
There are plenty of winter activities available at Mount Washington Alpine Resort, such as skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, fat biking, winter hiking, snowmobiling, and even dog sledding tours! Enjoy the winter wonderland at the resort.
Are there accommodations available at the resort?
Yes, Mount Washington offers a variety of lodging options including cabins, condominiums, chalets, and full-service hotels with ski-in/ski-out access, ensuring a comfortable stay.
What summer activities can I enjoy at Mount Washington?
You can enjoy a variety of activities at Mount Washington during the summer, including hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, and attending events like the BC Seafood Festival. So, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.
How do I get to Mount Washington Alpine Resort?
You can reach Mount Washington Alpine Resort by driving, taking a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo, using public transit, or flying into Comox Valley Airport. Enjoy your trip!
Is there dining available at the resort?
Yes, Mount Washington offers a variety of dining options, including quick bites at on-mountain locations and fine dining experiences in the nearby Comox Valley. You’ll have plenty of choices to enjoy delicious meals during your stay.
