During our last trip to the coast we decided to check out Salt Spring Island for a few days. A quick search showed that the Mount Maxwell hike would offer an excellent work to reward ratio, so we decided to check it out.
Mount Maxwell offers one of the highest vantage points on Salt Spring Island, giving views of Vancouver Island and the other Gulf Islands. There is a road which takes you almost to the top, however it’s rough and a 4×4 is needed and it is recommended you have higher than average clearance too. So we decided to hike.
Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission on any purchase made, at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the blog running, so thank you for your support!
The Mount Maxwell Hike
Distance: 5.5km round trip
Elevation: 270m
There are many options when it comes to the Mount Maxwell hike. There is a labyrinth of trails through the park, we opted to start from the Armand Way trailhead and follow trail number 4 to the summit area. If you wish to make a longer day of it, with more elevation gain you can start at Burgoyne Bay and hike up and back that way.
The trail for the Mount Maxwell hike starts right beside a trail sign to the left of a private driveway. From here it winds its way through the forest. Enjoy the time in the shady forest as the trail mostly gains elevation with the odd little stretch of downhill.
When we hiked the trail it was mostly loose dusty dirt with some roots and rocks to walk over. It may get a bit muddy after it rains though.
As you gain elevation, eventually viewpoints start to appear along the trail, small spurs off the main trail offer vantage points to enjoy the view as well. Please stay on the trails which already exist to prevent any further erosion to the area though.
The last stretch of the trail is the steepest of all and it can feel like you’ve made it when you reach the first viewpoint but the hardest work is yet to come. Once at the top of the steep section, stick to the trail and you’ll pop out in the parking area at the top of Mount Maxwell.
The Mount Maxwell hike can continue on for as long as you wish from here, following the upper ridge of the mountain, offering some great views. You could also take other trails down to make it a loop hike, although this would greatly extend the distance for the day.
For anyone who just wanted those summit views from the Mount Maxwell hike, there is a day use at the top which has picnic benches, perfect to sit, enjoy a well earnt picnic lunch and relax before heading back down the way you came up.
The trail for the Mount Maxwell hike is easy to follow, with maps at every junction, as well as this there are number trail markers along the route as well so you know you are still on the right number trail to get you where you want to go.
Where Is The Mount Maxwell Hike Trailhead
Getting to the Armand trailhead requires a bit of navigation, we used google maps to get directions, but make sure to do it before you leave Ganges otherwise you may lose cell reception.
From the main town of Ganges, head south on the Fulford-Ganges Road, after approximately 6km, turn right onto Dukes Road, then left onto Seymour Heights and left again onto Armand Way. Once off the main road, the road, eventually turns into a dirt road, however it is relatively smooth and shouldn’t pose an issue for any vehicle.
Things You Might Need To Complete The Mount Maxwell Hike
The Mount Maxwell hike is relatively short and follows a well maintained trail. I did the hike in my go to hiking boots, the La Sportiva Raptor 2 boots and these gave great grip on the loose descent sections. However I saw many people completing the hike in trail runners, which would be a lighter option if you prefer. I love my On Cloudventure Running shoes, they are lightweight, comfortable and grippy.
I carried a small day pack, with a few essentials in it. A Nalgene filled with water was a must for this hike. I also carried my Patagonia rain jacket, because you never know when it might start to rain on the coast! Along with a snack, I took a protein bar as I always find these fill me up and power me through any hike.
For the Mount Maxwell hike, I didn’t use poles, however some sections were a little steep, so if you struggle with your knees, they might be a worthwhile item to carry with you too.
Where To Stay On Salt Spring Island
We kept it cheap and camped at the Ruckle Provincial Park on the south of Salt Spring Island. This spot offers walk-in camping mostly, along with a few RV spots. Most of the sites are first come first serve, so if you are heading there on a weekend, aim to arrive early, to guarantee yourself a spot at this popular ocean view park.
There are lots of B and B’s and guesthouses on Salt Spring Island as well if camping doesn’t appeal to you. Book early to avoid disappointment though.
