Basalt columns rising up 22 meters in British Columbia
A quick hike leads you to the stunning Aberdeen Columns caused by volcanic activity in Canada
Hiking the Aberdeen Columns BC Canada are out of this world! If you're not into climbing, there's a good chance you haven't heard of this hidden gem. I saw a picture on social media and ended up Googling where it was. Aberdeen Columns are well known for climbing but it's still worth the quick hike around the area. They are polygonal basalt originating from volcanic activity and raise up to 22m from the ground.
"It's better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times."
Asian Probverb
Aberdeen Columns at a Glance:
Time: ~1 hr
Distance: 1 km return
Trail: There and back
Difficulty: Moderate
What to bring: water, snacks, sun protection, bug spray, and hiking sticks (optional)
Road conditions: Accessible by car
Other information: The trailhead is just before km 18 and there's a little area to park after the curve.
Bonus tip: Hit up Bluenose Mountain Trail as it is on the same road.
Directions:
Located about a 45-minute drive from Vernon, B.C. Travel on BC HWY 6 towards Lavington, turning right on Learmouth Rd and then right on Reid Rd. Continue on Bluenose Rd (which turns into Aberdeen Lake Rd) for about 10kms. Keep straight on Buck Hills Rd and a small pullout/parking area is just after the curve before the 18km mark. Alternatively, type "Aberdeen Columns" into Google Maps.
Hiking Trail:
Directly across from the parking area is where you start hiking the Aberdeen Columns BC. It is there you will see a sign for the trailhead leading you through a marsh area (bring bug spray). Soon later you trek over a few bridges before teh trail opens up in a field of rocks and columns. Continue left at the field of rocks to follow the trail up to the Aberdeen Columns.
Exploring the Aberdeen Columns
Once at the columns, you can continue exploring on either side or make your way through the lava rocks.
Hiking the columns are well worth the quick hike to walk along these 22 meter high basalt formations.