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| Vancouver Island Alpine Guide |
Vancouver Island's highest peak is located deep within Strathcona Park, north of Burman Lake. The easiest way to hike in, or out, is via the Philips Ridge Trail. By following the ridges west then north, Scheildrip Lake can be reached. From there either climb up on to the north ridge of Mt Burman and drop down to Burman Lake, or drop down into the head of the Wolf River and thrash up to the east end of Burman Lake. See 'Hiking Trails III' for a full description.
From the east end of Burman Lake, follow the faint trail up the ridge above the north side of the lake. Follow this until it reaches a small tarn at 1520m, south of the summit. Cross the bowl containing the tarn and make your way up a gully to reach the south east ridge. Head up the ridge over scree and heather. Ascend the long gully that comes straight down from the summit ridge, just to the left of the actual summit. At its bottom it fans out offering a choice of routes. Early in the year snow fills the gully making the ascent very pleasant. Later in the year loose rock is exposed. Just bellow the summit ridge head to the right and scramble up to the summit.
Last Updated: Sept 7, 1997