The Golden Hinde. At 2,195 metres (7,200 feet), it’s the tallest peak on Vancouver Island.

Rising from the rugged heart of Strathcona Park, this summit is composed of ancient volcanic rock known as the Karmutsen Formation – basalt that erupted over 200 million years ago when this land lay beneath the ocean.

Getting there isn’t easy, though. Most routes involve 50+ kilometres of hiking over five days, with exposed scrambling along the way. Not for the faint of heart!

I haven’t made the trek myself (yet), but drop a note below if you’ve taken in the view from the island’s highest point!