Old Baldy Mountain

This Sunday, I hiked to the top of Old Baldy Mountain in Shawnigan Lake with my dad. I think that this was hands down the MOST CHALLENGING hike that I have done so far during this inquiry project. The first section was steep and monotonous – basically a continuous climb up an old logging road. The second section was also steep (!), but had a more varied terrain and a breathtaking view. I will not lie though, at times in this second part, there was no “path” to speak of, rather just enormous rocks that you had to climb over. During this trek, I jokingly told my dad: “This isn’t a hike – this is mountain climbing.”

Swinging at the top of Old Baldy Mountain

**As a side-note: my dad & I started this hike from the yellow gate on Strathcona Heights Road. There was also a red gate earlier on on the same road where several cars were parked. According to some of the information I’ve read online, it seems like starting from the RED gate might have been an easier, more gradual climb to the top. So keep that in mind if you want to try out this hike! In this YouTube video, a group starts from the yellow gate (exactly where my dad & I started) to make their ascent:

Overall, we covered 3.14 kilometres with 193 meters of elevation in 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Hiking Statistics from AllTrails

At the very top, there was also a swing and several gorgeous spots to take in the view and rest awhile. I pulled out a White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cliff Bar at the top to savour.

A strange thing occurred to me after my break at the top though. My hip flexor on my right side was very sore! I’m not entirely sure I’m using the right lingo to describe this sensation. But basically, the first couple steps I took on my right leg, I thought it was going to give out. I was concerned about how I was going to make it back down the hill like this. However, walking around on the flat ground at the top helped me to “warm up” and pretty soon I was feeling fine. I’m not exactly sure what I did there though! I’m assuming that I maybe should’ve stretched or warmed up more before beginning my hike? I am unsure.

The view from Old Baldy Mountain

Why you should do this hike: Gorgeous amazing views and a swing at the top. This is the perfect hike to pack a picnic for and have lunch at the top. It’s a secluded adventure but you will come across a few other hikers though, it’s popular!

Drawbacks/be aware of: LOTS of elevation – if you don’t like steep hikes you will not like this. There is no parking lot (just street parking). The trails are mostly unmarked. It’s fairly hard to get lost on this one but I would still suggest having the AllTrails map downloaded onto your phone if you can.