On this day we had two separate hikes in Nanaimo.
1. Newcastle Island
Our visit to Newcastle Island was certainly well timed for perfect weather - sunny and warm, but very comfortable in the shady forest while frequent breezes were a real bonus. There was a bit of a potential hitch when we gathered at the dock and learned that the main boat was fully reserved until 11:00 - so much for a 10:00 sailing! But, the operator ended up being very good about it - he brought the smaller auxiliary boat into action, having his partner taxi us over. Now, that is good public relations!
The hike progressed quickly, as it so often does when a lot of chatter is involved. Lots of chatter, lots of smiles and plenty of enjoyment. We even had the small challenge of a large fallen tree to negotiate along the way. No way to go under, so ... up and over we went, before clambering through the mass of branches on the far side.. Nothing to it! Our reward was a debrief over ice cream cones before boarding the ferry for our return to Nanaimo.
Photos by Patti, Katie and Dawn. To view the remainder of Katie's excellent photos, do click on Katie's photos.
2. Mt Benson
This hike has been on our radar for more than a year as we waited for the right conditions... not too hot, not too wet or icy and clear skies for the view at the summit. Wednesday checked all of those boxes. This was the most challenging climb our group has attempted to date, rising 700 meters in about 4 kilometers. Our hard work was rewarded by an almost 360 degree view from the summit. On our way down, using coordinates provided by David, we were able to locate wreckage from a plane that crashed into the mountain in 1951.
We couldn't have wished for a better day. Well done hikers!
Photos by Cindy and the Bills. To see all of Bill Jorgensen's pictures from this hike click here.