Google map with directions from centre. It's easiest to click on "view larger map" below to get full map and directions.
This location is about 25 minutes' drive from the centre. Car poolers should leave the centre at 9:15. If you want to meet in the trail head car park, please be there at 9:40.
Track for this hike
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3k hike with elevation change of 147 m. Gentle slope down to McKenzie Bight. Excellent view of Findlayson Arm and access to rocky beach. Return on loop with views of waterfalls and streams - a good aerobic workout up steps for some of the way.
I found this review on a page called hiking for fat people. While it is a fair description of the trail, we didn't find it anything like so challenging as this.
Here's a link to the Walk the West Shore booklet that has information on this and other walks.
Pictures from June 26, 2012 hike (Thanks Dwayne)
Description of August 2, 2011 Hike
Our small group left the centre at 9:15 and arrived at the Gowland Todd car park at around 9:45. We met another large group of hikers from Sidney at the car park that was on the same mission as we were. Having exchanged pleasantries, we headed off onto the trail for McKenzie Bight.
We soon realized how much we missed Carolyn when we couldn't really identify the plants on Mckenzie Bight Trail. I'm posting pictures and will try identifying them, but if you get them first, please drop me an email.
This was a large shrub with prolific red berries. I think maybe ribes triste or red swamp currant.
This small plant had small white flowers and grew near the trail. Is this a saxifrage?
There were fantastic views of Finlayson Arm. The tide was out and we managed to see barnacles, mussels, crabs (two types), and a jelly fish.
We also saw this boat heading to anchor in the cove.
The walk back via cascade trail was very steep, with steps and stairs in various places as well as hand rails in some areas. However, there were always excuses to stop and check out the environment. For example, this smorgasbord of berries was right next to the trail. Unfortunately, the waterfalls were not in operation on this hike, but we expect them to be working again in the fall after some heavy rain. Another visit at that time is indicated!
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