Mount Tzouhalem (zoo-hay-lum) is a fascinating place, with a rich history and stunning views. The mountain is named after one of the fiercest of the Cowichan war chiefs. He was banished due to his frequent murders, and took up residence in a cave on the side of this mountain. This hike will lead you to a large Christian Cross near the summit, originally a wooden cross, placed by local Catholic churches in the 1970's. The trail leads through the forest with several stunning views of the Cowichan Valley.
All the Island Spirit Legacy Caches are within a 2 steps of the trail, unless otherwise noted. There is no need to bushwack or trample the vegetation.
Raven
Prukk, Prukk, Prukk. This distinctive bird call belongs to the Common Raven. Ravens can be seen throughout the Cowichan Valley in mostly forested or rural areas. They have jet black plumage and usually grow to 63cm (25in) high and weigh 1.2kg (2.6lbs). Ravens have wedge shaped tails and have thicker, bigger beaks than their smaller crow cousins. Ravens are omnivorous, eating everything from berries, nuts and insects to small animals, carrion and food waste. They are thought to be intelligent, have been revered by indigenous cultures worldwide and are common figures in song and literature. Young birds form blocks, but once of age, they form partnerships for the remainder of their 10-15 year life span. White Ravens have been spotted and photographed at Qualicum Beach (98km north of Duncan) in the past couple years. These extremely rare birds are not albino, they get their white plumage and beaks as a result of mutant genes.