The best walks and hikes around Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)
4.9
(139)
1,132
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking around Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek) offers diverse landscapes, from river corridors to alpine environments. The region is characterized by the Puntledge River, which flows from Comox Lake, and features varied forest trails, unique bog ecosystems, and significant elevation changes in its western parts. Nymph Falls Nature Park provides distinctive rock pools and waterfalls along the river. This area offers a range of trails suitable for different experience levels.
Best hiking trails around Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)
- The most popular hiking route is Medicine Bowls, a 2.1 miles (3.3 km) trail that takes 54 minutes to complete. This easy path leads through Nymph Falls Nature Park, featuring unique rock formations and waterfalls.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Paradise Meadows – Helen Mackenzie Lake loop from Mount Washington Alpine Resort, a moderate 5.3 miles (8.5 km) path. This route offers scenic alpine environments and can be completed in about 2 hours 28 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Century Sam Lake — Strathcona Provincial Park, a 6.8 miles (11.0 km) trail leading through challenging terrain with significant elevation gain, often completed in about 4 hours 34 minutes.
- Hiking around Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek) is defined by river views, lush forests, and alpine landscapes. The network offers options for various ability levels, from accessible paths to demanding mountain routes.
- The routes in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek) are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 130 reviews. More than 1,100 hikers have used komoot to explore Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)'s varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
14
hikers
11.0km
04:35
560m
560m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4
hikers
3.34km
00:54
50m
50m
Hike the easy 2.1-mile Medicine Bowls trail to discover unique rock pools and waterfalls in the Comox Valley, British Columbia.
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4.8
(58)
371
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(29)
177
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(8)
65
hikers
11.0km
04:43
650m
650m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
The trail leading up to Medicine Bowls is a rough 4x4 road. It's an easy walk, or if you have a high-clearance vehicle, you could attempt to drive it. Once you reach the end of the road, look for a trail that leads to the river. There are no signs on the trail, but it's pretty easy to follow.
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Formed by the Browns River, the Medicine Bowls are a stunning set of waterfalls flowing over smooth, naturally carved rock bowls.
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Unless you have a high-clearance vehicle, you will need to park here. The road up is privately owned by a logging company and only has public access on the weekend. The gate gets locked at 6 p.m., so make sure you allow plenty of time on the return hike to avoid getting locked in.
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Century Sam Lake sits below the Comox Glacier, surrounded by Black Cat Mountain and Mount Arthur Evans. Keep an eye out for a hidden trail along the edge of the lake. This trail leads to a beautiful ice cave. Due to the dangerous nature of ice caves, please use caution and do not enter the caves.
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Beautiful access to the shore of Lake Helen Mackenzie, which invites you to rest and swim.
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Canada Jays are frequently seen in Strathcona Provincial Park, particularly in the Paradise Meadows area. This park provides suitable habitat for these birds. They are known for their tendency to interact with humans. We encounter two Canada Cays during our rest stop at Battleship Lake. They follow us through the forest until just before Helen Mackenzie Lake. Upon seeing the combination of bands on their legs, we realize this is a different bird. https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/the-canada-jayutm_campaignreprintutm_sourcecanadiangeographic/
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Piggott Creek drains parts of the Forbidden Plateau in Strathcona Provincial Park. This mountain stream originates from Helen Mackenzie Lake at approximately 1,150 m elevation. It flows north and empties into the Oyster River at approximately 300 m elevation, which flows into the Strait of Georgia between Courtenay and Campbell River.
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North of Helen Mackenzie Lake lies a small, beautiful lake nestled in a pine forest. The trail back to the Wilderness Centre runs past the lake to the east. On the Forbidden Plateau, there are countless lakes surrounded by wetlands; this lake (apparently) remains unnamed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hiking trails for all skill levels in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
Yes, Area C offers a wide variety of trails, from easy, accessible paths suitable for all skill levels to more challenging routes. You'll find over 8 easy routes, 5 moderate, and 4 difficult ones. Some trails along the Puntledge River corridor are even designed for accessibility, including sport wheelchairs.
Can I see waterfalls or unique natural features while hiking in Area C?
Absolutely. The region is known for its distinctive natural features. For example, Medicine Bowls in Nymph Falls Nature Park features unique rock formations and waterfalls. You can also visit Nymph Falls itself, a popular spot along the Puntledge River.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
Yes, many trails in Area C are suitable for families. The easy paths, particularly those along the Puntledge River corridor, offer gentle terrain and beautiful scenery, perfect for all ages. The Medicine Bowls trail, for instance, is an easy 3.3 km route through Nymph Falls Nature Park.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
Many trails in Area C are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations or trail signage. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash, allowing you and your canine companion to enjoy the diverse landscapes together.
What kind of wildlife and plant life can I expect to see on the trails?
Area C boasts diverse flora and fauna. You might encounter moss-covered old-growth trees, rare plants, and various mushroom species. Wildlife sightings, including deer, and numerous bird species, are possible, especially near the Puntledge River. Keep an eye out for unique bog plants like Labrador tea and carnivorous sundews in areas like the Puntledge Bog.
Are there any loop trails available for hikers in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
Yes, there are several loop options. For example, the Paradise Meadows – Helen Mackenzie Lake loop from Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers a moderate 8.5 km circuit through scenic alpine environments. Another option is the longer Helen Mackenzie Lake – Paradise Meadows loop, which is a more challenging 15.6 km route.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several points of interest. Paradise Meadows is a beautiful area, and Helen Mackenzie Lake is a stunning lake often included in longer hikes. The Comox Lake Dam Picnic Area also serves as a convenient starting point for various trails and offers picnic facilities.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and parks within Area C, such as Nymph Falls Nature Park and the Comox Lake Dam Picnic Area. Specific parking availability can vary by location, so it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
The region offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with lush forests and potential for wildlife sightings. Summer is ideal for alpine routes and enjoying lakes. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on lower elevation trails, though conditions can vary and some higher routes may require snowshoes or skis.
Are there any challenging hikes with significant elevation gain in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Area C has routes with significant elevation changes. The Century Sam Lake — Strathcona Provincial Park trail is a demanding 11.0 km route with over 550 meters of elevation gain. Another difficult option is the Forest Pond View – Mount Becher loop, which features over 649 meters of ascent.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Area C (Puntledge/Black Creek)?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 130 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from river views and lush forests to scenic alpine environments, and the wide variety of trails catering to all ability levels.
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