Elk Mountain

The top of Elk Mountain offers a spectacular view of Chilliwack, Cultus Lake, mountains to the south, and the surrounding Fraser Valley area. The hiking trail is steep and relentless with the majority of the route being in the forest and along a well defined path. During the summer, the dry, loose dirt along several steep sections can be slippery, particularly as you approach the first viewpoint.

The hike begins from the wooden map board along Elk View Road and starts with a steady incline up the mountain through a beautifully forested area. The trail is wide and easy to navigate as you make your way uphill, passing over a small creek. The trail eventually reaches a gravel forestry road. Cross the road and continue to follow the trail back into the forest, continuing uphill.

The trail continues its relentless uphill climb until you reach a portion where you can spot the valley through the trees. At this point, the trail veers right and gets steeper. Follow the switchbacks up the steep section and be careful to watch for orange markers on the trees.

Eventually, the trail climbs up some wooden steps and emerges from the forest where there is immediately a view of valley looking southwest. Continue up the loose dirt to the first Elk Mountain Viewpoint, which is a rocky bluff that is to the left of the trail. The view is incredible on a clear day as you can see Cultus Lake and the town of Chilliwack.

Return to the trail and continue up the steep hill under the forest canopy. The uphill section is short as you leave the forest again and there is a final steep uphill to a clearing where there are more great views looking south. There is an outhouse located near here, just back in the treeline.

Continue to follow the trail along the ridge as you soak in all of the spectacular views. If you are lucky with the timing of your hike, the wildflowers will be blooming along the trail edges, presenting an array of colours. Pass some flags and a green sheet used as a launching area for paragliders.

The highest point is a rocky, open clearing that is unmarked and this is the peak of Elk Mountain. The views look south across the valley and some of the mountains visible include Mount McGuire, Mount McFarlane, Slesse Mountain, and even as far south as Mount Baker in the United States. The trail continues to Mount Thurston, however the best views are along Elk Ridge, so most people end their hike at the peak of Elk mountain and return.

Once you've enjoyed the views, begin hiking back along the route you arrived, enjoying the views along the ridge one last time. Step carefully along the loose dirt trail as you walk down the steep trail returning to the first viewpoint. Go left, and slowly make your way down the steep hill as you return to the forest. The trail descends quickly as you zig zag your way back through the switch backs. When the trail becomes less steep, the descent becomes even quicker as you pass the gravel road and descend the last section of trail back to the trailhead where you began.