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Permission to place this cache was granted, May 7th 2018.
Maple Mountain is part of the Forest Reserves of North Cowichan. Reserves are "working forests". Timber from this area could be harvested at a future date. If this should happen, please respect posted signage, personnel on site, and their directions.
The rough and rugged coastal, yellow flagged, trail zig-zags through stands of cedars and sword ferns, across small ravines and stream beds and eventually pops out on the bluffs of Sansum Narrows. This trail winds along the shoulder of Maple Mountain along a narrow foot path. One creek crossing is highlighted by a photogenic log bridge and seasonal waterfall. There are numerous hidden natural hazards along the trail. It can require careful footing on some sections of irregular rock out cropping and along stretches that are slippery with mud and moss during the winter and after a heavy rainfall.
These trails are classed as moderate / intermediate and most of the loop is covered with forest shade.
The strenuous yellow route is marked with yellow flagging tape and is fairly rough in places. Trail can be indistinct when it crosses the open bluffs. There are beautiful views, and you could visit three little stony beaches along the way.
The well traveled blue route is clearly marked with blue flagging and blue dots painted on the trees.
Moderate loop: Follow the blue trail in, descend on the steep pink trail, and return on the yellow trail.
Challenging loop: Follow the yellow trail in, ascend on the steep pink trail, and return on the blue trail.
About an 11.4 loop. Leashed dogs are permitted on the trails. Not suitable for small children.
Final N 48° 50.844 W 123° 35.569 Hint: tucked inside hole in stump, debris on top