Squirrel Cove

The trail system within Ha'thayim (Von Donop) Marine Provincial Park is rugged and less formally marked. While specific parking areas aren't detailed, a common access point is near the Klahoose Salmon Enhancement Facility, which offers an easy 3 km walk into the inlet. For those arriving by boat, the park is a popular anchorage, and you can hike directly from the inlet.

As part of a provincial park, dogs are generally permitted on trails within Ha'thayim (Von Donop) Marine Provincial Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The park offers a rugged wilderness experience year-round. While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the lush forests and marine environment are beautiful in spring, summer, and fall. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and cooler conditions. Wildlife viewing opportunities vary by season, with sea lions more present in winter.

No, there are no fees or permits required for day hiking in Ha'thayim (Von Donop) Marine Provincial Park. It is an undeveloped marine wilderness park, and wilderness camping is also free.

The terrain is rugged and varied, featuring mature second-growth and old-growth forests with diverse tree species and a lush understory of ferns, Oregon grape, huckleberry, and salal. Hikers should be prepared for uneven ground, potential wind-fallen trees to climb over, and overgrown brush on some user-maintained paths. The park also includes a rocky coastline, steep-sided fjords, and tidal flats.

While some sections, like the 3 km path from the Klahoose Salmon Enhancement Facility to the inlet, are considered easy, the overall hiking area is described as the longest and most rugged on Cortes Island. Beginners should be prepared for challenging sections, including rough routes and potential obstacles. The ascent to Cliff Peak, for instance, is a steep, full-day excursion.

Expect exceptionally beautiful and varied scenery, including stunning cliffs along Von Donop Inlet, dense forests with giant trees, and secluded inlets. Wildlife is abundant, with common sightings of flying and Douglas squirrels, river otters, mink, and various seabirds. Harbor seals are often seen in the inlet, and Steller's and California sea lions are present in winter. Killer whales occasionally pass through Sutil Channel.

Key points of interest include the undeveloped marine wilderness of Ha’thayim Marine Provincial Park itself, centered around the sheltered Von Donop Inlet. The park also features lakes (Robertson and Wiley), estuaries, and a saltwater lagoon. The small community of Squirrel Cove is accessible by a rough route from the park, offering a chance to resupply.

The time required varies significantly depending on the route. An easy path from the Klahoose Salmon Enhancement Facility to the inlet is about 3 km (1.8 mi) and can be walked in under an hour. A rougher route from the inlet to Squirrel Cove is about 5 km (3.1 mi) and will take longer due to its rugged nature. The ascent to Cliff Peak is a full day's excursion.

This trail offers the longest and most rugged hiking experience on Cortes Island, set within an undeveloped marine wilderness park. Its unique character comes from the diverse ecosystems, including old-growth forests, a rugged coastline, and the sheltered Von Donop Inlet. It's also a joint venture between the Klahoose First Nation band and BC Parks, with subtle evidence of past logging being reclaimed by nature.

Yes, a practical aspect for visitors, especially those arriving by boat, is the ability to hike from the park to Squirrel Cove. This small community offers opportunities to get supplies or enjoy a cold drink after your hike.