Mt. Myra via Tennent Lake Trail offers 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains. This trail all-in takes around 8 hours, but can be done as an overnight with camping.
Very few people know about this hidden gem which makes it less crowded and all the more special. The views and serenity that this place possess are what will really draw you in.
The hike starts at the Westmin Mine parking lot, located 2 hours north of Courtenay. To find the start of the trailhead you will need to walk southwest for 1.2km from the parking lot along Tennant Road (gravel) to the mine's powerhouse. Once you cross the bridge over Myra Creek you want to keep left to find the Mt. Myra trailhead.
The trail starts up a loose rock switchback and gains elevation quickly. Upon following the well-marked trail, you will come out at Tennant Lake. The trail veers to the left and goes from a dense forest to a rock garden. For this area of the hike, the trail is harder to find and you will have to rely mostly on cairns. After the rock garden, the trail starts on its steepest point as you scramble up a gully on the west aspect of Mt. Myra. Once at the top of the gully, you will find the unofficially named Sandbag Lake. Most people set up camp here and it is important to note that there are no platforms so bring a mat! The glacier-fed lake is a great place to cool off after the steep hike.
From Sandbag Lake, head east and follow the cairns that take you onto Myra’s broad SW ridge. Walk up the ridge passing a false summit on its south (right) side and down into a col below the summit dome. Cross the col, go straight up a steep and somewhat exposed class 3 gully, and head straight up to the summit to enjoy the stunning views you've worked so hard for. No ropes are necessary to enjoy this summit.
NOTES:
For overnight camping, no permits are required.
Dogs are permitted on-leash.