Mount Steele via Edwards Lake Trail

Mount Steele via Edwards Lake Trail is one of the classic big days in the Tetrahedron backcountry above Sechelt, and it earns its “challenging” rating. At 20.6 km with about 1,013 m of gain and a high point around 1,660 m, it’s a solid 7-hour push for fit hikers, longer with overnight gear. The payoff is a mix of lakes, old-growth pockets, cozy backcountry cabins, and a summit view that stretches from Vancouver Island to the Tantalus Range.

The route starts out on old forest road and easy singletrack to Edwards Lake, a calm spot to grab a snack or a quick dip before the real climb. Past Edwards Lake and Edwards Cabin, the trail winds through forest with big trees, blueberry bushes right on the path, and occasional bear sign, then breaks onto the ridge toward Mount Steele Cabin. From there the grade kicks up, the trees thin, and the views explode into full-on coastal mountains and distant peaks in every direction, with a short final push to the rocky summit cairn.

Recent hikers on Mount Steele via Edwards Lake Trail report a well-marked, well-maintained path thanks to the Tetrahedron Outdoor Club, but conditions swing hard with the seasons. Expect snow, soft sections, and potential post-holing well into spring and even early summer, where microspikes, gaiters, or snowshoes can move the day from sufferfest to fun. The access road above Sechelt is rough; higher-clearance SUVs manage it slowly, while low cars often park lower and walk the final stretch. Bring at least 2 liters of water, solid footwear, poles, and bear awareness, and if you’re staying at Edwards or Mount Steele cabins, plan ahead but enjoy the luxury of sleeping pads, wood stoves, and a roof in real Coast Range terrain.