Elk River Trail between Campbell River and Gold River is a very pleasant and popular trail through a forested valley, suitable for families. Strong hikers with only light packs can make a return trip to Landslide Lake in a day.

The trail is essentially an old elk trail that has been improved over the years. The trail has been cleared nicely up to the gravel flats at Landslide Lake and upper river flats. It is now quite a good trail, and hazardous log crossings at Butterwort, Volcano and Puzzle Creeks have been replaced by sturdy bridges built by the Island Mountain Ramblers in conjunction with BC Parks.

Due to the popularity of this trail, BC Parks has developed management strategies, including concentrating tent camping at sites that can take the impact. Waste management is a high priority and BC Parks has provided pit toilets at these sites.

At Volcano Creek there have been numerous bear sightings. It is about a 3-hour hike for a hiker with full overnight gear to the Butterwort Creek gravel bar, and about 6 hours to the gravel flats. From here one can make day excursions, especially to Landslide Lake.

Elk River - looking upstream from Elk Falls

Elk River Trail is accessed via Highway 28 to Gold River. From the bridge at Buttle Narrows drive about 23 km on Highway 28, and find a sign to Elk River Trail, just before Drum Lakes. Driving time from Campbell River is about 1 hour. Follow the signs to the start of the trail. BC Parks has relocated the start of the trail and also built a new parking lot. The new trail creates an unnecessary climb and descent that is not appreciated by hikers just staring out with heavy packs. Old hands prefer the original trail start located closer to the river.

Hiking trails in Strathcona Provincial Park:

Bedwell Lake Trail
Della Falls Trail
Elk River Trail
Kwai Loop Trail
Landslide Lake Trail
Lupin Falls Nature Walk
Mount Albert Edward Trail
Paradise Meadows Loop
Sawdust Trail

Click for companies that offer Hiking & Backpacking services, or visit our Recreation section for more information on Hiking and Backpacking in British Columbia.

Trail information for Vancouver Island is provided in three superb Hiking Trails guides by the Vancouver Island Trails Information Society.