Mount Benson: Vancouver Island’s Spring Adventure

May 12, 2024

Spring Hiking on Mount Benson: A Fresh Adventure on Vancouver Island

Spring is the perfect season to experience Mount Benson, one of Vancouver Island’s most popular hiking destinations. With blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and a refreshing breeze in the air, this hike is a fantastic way to welcome warmer weather. Standing at 1,023 meters, Mount Benson offers panoramic views that are especially rewarding after the winter’s snow melt, revealing clear skies and vibrant landscapes.

Spring on Mount Benson brings out the best of the season: mild temperatures, blossoming flora, and a refreshing change from winter’s quieter, colder trails. Early in the season, you might still spot patches of snow near the summit, adding to the scenery’s charm. With longer daylight hours and fewer bugs than summer, spring is ideal for both casual and experienced hikers looking to enjoy nature at its freshest.

Trail Overview

The most popular route to Mount Benson’s summit is roughly 8 kilometers round-trip with an elevation gain of 730 meters. While it’s a moderate-to-challenging hike, the ascent is rewarding with diverse terrain, from forested trails to rocky sections closer to the top. This trek usually takes around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace.

What You’ll See Along the Way

Wildflowers: Keep an eye out for wildflowers beginning to bloom along the trail, adding pops of color against the vibrant green backdrop.
Birdlife: Spring is a great time to see and hear a variety of birds, from songbirds to woodpeckers, adding music and movement to the forest.
Moss-Covered Trees: The cool, misty spring air keeps the moss lush and vibrant, creating a beautiful contrast with the other greenery.
Summit Views: On clear days, the summit offers sweeping views of the Gulf Islands, Nanaimo, and the coastal mountains in the distance.

Trailhead and Getting There

The trailhead at Witchcraft Lake is located about a 20-minute drive from Nanaimo’s city center. It’s a small parking area, so arriving early is a good idea to secure a spot, especially on weekends. If the lot is full, look for additional nearby parking options.

What to Bring for a Spring Hike

Layered Clothing – The weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. Dress in layers so you can adjust as needed.
Sturdy Hiking Boots – The spring thaw can leave parts of the trail muddy or slippery, so good boots are essential.
Trekking Poles – These are optional but helpful for the steeper sections and can make the hike easier on your knees.
Water and Snacks – Bring enough to keep you energized, especially for the more strenuous parts of the trail.
Camera – The views are breathtaking in spring, so you’ll want to capture the landscape and your journey.

Hiking Tips for Mount Benson in the Spring

Start Early – Spring days are getting longer, but starting early ensures you have ample daylight to enjoy the hike at a relaxed pace.
Check the Weather – Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and prepare for changing conditions.
Stay on the Trail – The trail can be muddy or wet, so stick to the marked path to avoid damaging delicate vegetation or losing your way.
Respect Nature – Mount Benson’s ecosystem is delicate in spring; be mindful to leave no trace and respect the plants and wildlife.

Perfect Spring Photography Spots

Wildflower Shots: Take some close-up shots of the vibrant wildflowers that begin to bloom along the lower trails.
Summit Panoramas: Use the summit to capture stunning wide-angle photos of Vancouver Island and the surrounding ocean and mountains.
Forest Scenes: The misty, moss-covered trees add a moody touch to your photos, especially in the early morning light.

Wrap Up Your Adventure

After the hike, head back into Nanaimo for a treat at one of the local cafés or breweries. There’s nothing like a hot coffee or a cold craft beer to cap off a memorable day in nature.

Springtime on Mount Benson is a must for anyone who loves hiking, photography, or simply being in nature. It’s the perfect way to soak in the fresh energy of the season, take in some incredible views, and feel a renewed sense of adventure on Vancouver Island.