Skip to content

Getting Here

Getting to Mount Washington is a breeze, with well maintained, paved roads. Here’s how you can make your way:

Comox Valley Airport (YQQ)

WestJet, Air Canada, and Pacific Coastal Airlines bringing humans to and from Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. If you’re worried about getting from the airport to the mountain, don’t be! The taxis and private shuttles are like a friendly marmot guiding you right to your destination.

BC Ferries

If you prefer crossing the big water, BC Ferries will carry both drivers and walk-on passengers from the Lower Mainland of BC. If you’re coming from South Vancouver or near the airport, take the Tsawwassen to Duke Point route. If you’re up in North Vancouver, the Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay route is the way to go. And if you’re on the Sunshine Coast, there’s a ferry from Powell River that brings you straight to the Comox Valley!

If you’re coming from the USA, the COHO Ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria is a popular and scenic way to travel. The 3-hour drive from Victoria to Mount Washington is full of amazing views and places to stop along the way, just like the best marmot trails.

By Car

Driving is as easy as following your nose (or a good map)! We’re only 25km west of the Comox Valley, 50km south of Campbell River, and 100km north of Nanaimo. You can rent a car right at the Comox Valley Airport or in the City of Courtenay, making it quick and easy to head up to the mountain. The Mount Washington Village is just a short drive away via the Strathcona Parkway—exit 130 on Highway 19.

If Strathcona Park is your destination, just take a left off of Strathcona Parkway onto Nordic Road. Follow the brown and white signs to Strathcona Park and Raven Lodge. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Courtenay and 60 minutes from Campbell River—just enough time for a marmot like me to nibble on a snack!

You can check out the live highway conditions on the BC HighwayCams website (have a look especially during the winter to plan accordingly!).

Winter Shuttle Bus Service

For staff and guests, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort has a Ski & Ride Shuttle Bus available December-April to everyone travelling to and from the Comox Valley to Mount Washington on a daily basis during the winter ski season. Pickup and drop-off locations are located throughout the Comox Valley, and no advance reservations are required. Fare for the Mount Washington bus to and from the Comox Valley is $20 for a round trip.