5040 Peak is one of those hikes that pushes you to your limits—but rewards you with some of the most jaw-dropping views on Vancouver Island. This trail is no joke, with steep elevation gain right from the start, but if you're up for the challenge, the payoff is worth it. The good news is that although the trail is steep, it is relatively short.

The route takes you past the stunning Cobalt Lake, a perfect spot to catch your breath and soak in the beauty of the alpine. If you're not into tenting it out in the open, there's a gorgeous hut just a couple hundred meters below the summit ridge, run by the Alpine Club of Canada. It's a cosy and convenient place to stay if you want to experience the alpine without roughing it too much.

But if you want the whole 5040 experience, I recommend camping on the ridgeline. A sweeping 360-degree panorama of rugged peaks and ocean views surrounds you. Triple Peak dominates the skyline; if lucky, you might even find a patch of lingering snow on the north side to collect water.

In early summer, the meadows explode with wildflowers, adding pops of colour to the rocky terrain. The foliage turns a deep, fiery red in the fall, creating a dramatic contrast against the surrounding mountains. Whether you're here for the adventure, the solitude, or the unreal photography opportunities, 5040 Peak is an alpine dream that's well worth the effort.