We hit it lucky again yesterday with another beautiful, warm fall day. I’m not sure how long this is going to last before the winter rains come but Paulette and I are taking advantage of it while we can. Yesterday, we left home around 10am and drove over to nearby Mt. Tzouhalem to hike up to the summit.
Made it to the top!!
Mt. Tzouhalem is probably the most rigorous of the hiking trails we go on here in the Cowichan Valley. It covers 3.7 miles with an elevation gain of 826 ft. Some of the trails are pretty steep grades but fortunately for us there are several switchbacks which give us a chance to catch our breath.
Along the way there are several viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the entire Cowichan Valley. The trail wasn’t crowded even though there must have been at least 20 cars in the parking lot. It’s a big mountain and there are several different trails that will take you to the top so it’s not unusual for it to be quiet.
About half-way up the mountain we got a great view of Quamichan Lake
Paulette and I both thought we should somehow rig up a pedometer on Rylie as she must put on 3 or 4 times the number of steps we take on our hikes. She likes to run along the path ahead of us then turn and run back down full speed. That would kill me for sure.
The temperature was hovering around 70F as we made it to the top of the mountain. Paulette had brought along some water and snacks so it was nice to find a rock and sit down while we looked out over the valley and enjoyed a cool drink of water.
A great view of the Cowichan River as it flows into the ocean
From the top of the mountain we got a terrific view of the Cowichan River Estuary and both of the trails we like to hike along. I have to admit I was liking those long, flat paths down below as I was slogging my way uphill.
Definitely in need of some repairs
I read in the local paper last week that the cross at the top of Mt. Tzouhalem was in need of a few repairs. Looking at it up close I could see what they were talking about. The cement foundation is beginning to crumble and needs to be fastened to the rock more securely. Also, a few of the welds need re-doing. The conservation society that manages Mt. Tzouhalem has said a full review of the cross structure will be done this November and any necessary repairs will be made immediately.
We were back home from our hike just after 1pm and we took it easy for the rest of the day and just watched a few of our favourite TV shows after dinner.
Thanks for visiting!
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