Hike Mount Prevost

Mt Prevost is a local favourite for hikers, mountain bikers and if you can believe even hang gliders. Most people know it for the large war memorial tower that is perched on the cliff edge, standing guard over the valley below.

The big draw of Mt Prevost is easy access to a significant distance and elevation gain for those looking for a bit more of a a robust hike. With an out and back distance of almost 11kms and a cumulative elevation gain of over 750m it is a great workout.

The hike takes you up from the road side on Drinkwater Rd just outside of Duncan, BC across from Bings Creek Recycling depot. The trail follows Bings Creek which drains down from Mt Prevost. For this reason my favourite time of year to hike this is early spring when the creek is running strong and the endless waterfalls are cascading with the moss and ferns the most vibrant green. Fall also offers a serene setting as the lower part of the trail wanders through large Maple trees and the falling massive leaves are a visual treat.

As you work up the trail through the Maples you cross a small wood bridge to your left over the creek. From this point you start gaining elevation heading up alongside the creek staying on the right hand side, there will be a few trail intersections which you stick to the right.

Through the hike you cross a few logging roads , each time the path continues direct across from you or slightly left ir right, no need to hike down the road any distance. After the last road you will really begin to crush the last bit of elevation and the leg workout begins. In one small steep section a permanent hand line has been added to make the spot safe and easy for all skill levels.

You will now be cresting the lower summit where you start hiking across the open terrain. This smaller of the two peaks is where you will find the large wind sock that the local hang gliders jump off as they float in the valley skies. Keep moving along the lower summit and hike down to the logging road that ends between the two peaks (this is a popular spot for MTB riders to start down their trails). 

Directly across the parking spot on the logging road you will start to scramble up the main peak. This section is a bit trickier and people not comfortable on steep terrain and maybe some small children will want to stick to the lower peak. Work your way up the rocky terrain to the open bluff and continue moving east into the forest along the peak edge until you reach the summit Cairn and views to the east.

This is a great spot to relax and have a snack or lunch before returning to the trailhead following back on your path you took to the top.

Always let a friend or family member know when you are embarking on a hike for a safe plan and check in time. This mountain does have cell coverage over the full trail but don't rely on it as you only means of communication. Please remember your Leave No Trace ethics, take lots of pictures and have a great time!