Scenic Views · British Columbia
Ripple Rock Hike Lookout
A moderate 8 to 9 km return forest hike north of Campbell River, BC, ending on a bluff above the swirling tidal currents of Seymour Narrows. Whales are sometimes seen from the top.
What visitors say
The Ripple Rock trail ends on an open bluff at Wilfred Point, high above Seymour Narrows. Ripple Rock itself, once a notorious shipping hazard, sits below the water now, but visitors say its effect is plain to see as tidal currents boil and swirl through the passage. Several hikers watched humpback whales from the lookout, and others enjoyed watching boats work their way through the narrows.
The trailhead is just off Highway 19 about 16 km north of Campbell River, with a parking lot and a toilet. The trail runs roughly 4.5 km each way through lush forest and past two bays, with lookouts along the route if you don't want to go the full distance. Near the end, a steel staircase and a short steep pitch lead up to the bluff. Most groups take three to four hours, including a rest and picnic at the top.
Families do it, some with children as young as five, though that group needed about five hours. A couple in their sixties rated it moderate, and a beginner found it more of a grind than expected, with steady ups and downs. Take water, snacks and a camera.
The caveats are practical. Parts of the trail are rough, rooty and muddy, and the parking lot fills by midday, so start early. One reviewer thought it too much for small children, while others managed fine by taking their time.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 173 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.