Anvil Island - Climbing Leading Peak

Anvil Island is located in Howe Sound, very noticeable from the Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Squamish. The name was given by Captain George Vancouver who said in his journal, "The sun shining at this time for a few minutes afforded an island which, from the shape of the mountain that composes it, obtained the name of Anvil Island." Only a few homes inhabit the island including a summer bible camp at the south end. From that camp, a trail climbs to the summit. Although the trail mileage and elevation seem reasonable, this is a much tougher hike than what it appears.

WillhiteWeb.com - Kayaking & Peakbagging

Distance: 3 miles (5 km)
Summit Elevation: 2,510 feet (765 meters)
Elevation Gain & Prominence: 2,510 feet (765 meters)

A water taxi can be rented from Horseshoe Bay but permission must be granted to access the camps docks and property if you take water taxi. The Bible camp allows access and they have asked me to say that you should contact them to visit. You can kayak over from the mainland from Porteau Cove Provincial Park, if the water is reasonable. Getting across Montagu Channel to Anvil Island to do this adventure has killed kayakers before, be careful.

(update: I have removed the directions I took. Discuss with the camp the route from the camp) At times, this trail is more of a route, climbing directly up the mountain, sometimes with the use of ropes. There are no switchbacks. Much of the route is along Champside Creek, a good water source and the water source for the homes at the south end of the island. Along the way are some nice pockets of old growth. Soon a sign points to the "White Spot", a slight detour but worth the time. The view is really nice but the summit is still much higher. The trail next goes to the lake, a real gem hiding on the summit ridge. Bald Eagles watch down from dead snags. A bit further and you see the final climb to Leading Peak and you think, a trail goes up that! The route drops down a bit, then goes through a valley between sheer rock walls. You will think you are in Lord of the Rings here. Soon you are on the west side of the summit knob and a super fun (and safe) scramble gets you all the way up to the summit. There find unobstructed views and two heli-pads to relax on.

Anvil Island from Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Anvil Island from the Horseshoe Bay area

Gambier Island and the sawmills of Port Mellon from one of the heli-pads

Mount Artaban on the east side of Gambier Island

One of the signs to Pebble Beach

The start of the trail from the dirt road

Champside Lake high on Anvil Island

Ropes in places for some extra help

Getting close to the White Spot

Leading Peak summit from just north of the lake

Nearing the White Spot

View from the White Spot