Hiking Ripple Rock Trail, Minutes from Campbell River BC

Q: how big was the ripple rock explosion?

The Ripple Rock explosion was massive— it removed 635,000 tons of rock with the world’s largest non-nuclear blast in 1958. If you’re wondering how big the Ripple Rock explosion was, it equaled 1.2 kilotons of TNT , dramatically reshaping marine navigation near Campbell River, BC.

What is the attraction to hiking Ripple Rock? Well, in 1958, it’s where the largest non-nuclear explosion took place. The removal of the dangerous rock formations marked an important turning point in engineering history. If you’re at the top of Ripple Rock, you might catch large ships, including cruise liners, passing through the area.

The hike will take you to the Seymour Narrows lookout. Highlights for this trip are the rewarding views of the narrows at the top. But it’s going to be a challenging hike; it’s not a stroll in the park. You need to overcome steep slopes and uneven ground. There are stairs and bridges in places to help you overcome some of the obstacles. Still, it is a medium-to-difficult hike.

You will traverse a coastal forest for about 8 kilometres, leading to the lookout at the top of the narrows. It takes most hikers 2.5 to 4.5 hours.

Key Takeaways

8-kilometre return hike taking 2.5-4.5 hours through old-growth forest
Spectacular viewpoint overlooking Seymour Narrows and the historic 1958 explosion site, a key engineering project.
Features Douglas fir trees, moss-covered logs, and lush undergrowth
Accessible trailhead with well-maintained path suitable for intermediate hikers
Rich maritime history combined with pristine natural beauty

Getting to the Ripple Rock Trail Head Vancouver Island

Your adventure starts outside of the town Campbell River. The ripple rock trailhead is easy to get to,

From Campbell River you’ll want to head North on highway 19 for about 20 minutes.
There are signs on the highway 400m from the turnoff.

Parking and Trailhead Access

The trail is well-signed from the highway. There are two parking areas: an upper area and a lower area; park as close to the trail as possible. As the return trip is all uphill back to the parking lot, you’re going to be tired.

There’s a basic toilet at the trailhead, and weekends can get busy, so arrive early.

Complete Trail Description and Route Details

This 8-kilometre trail is an out-and-back adventure. It offers a mix of easy access and rugged beauty. You get what you want without too much trouble.

The trail starts at the northeast corner of the parking lot. It quickly turns into a scenic path.

8-Kilometre Trail Overview

The trail is an out-and-back route. You’ll hike 4 kilometres to the viewpoint, rest and enjoy the view, and then head back the same way you came in. This trail has a variety of different terrain. You’ll hike across a creek, head down narrow forest paths, and climb steep stairs.

Key Trail Markers and Navigation Points

The trail is easy to find and follow; also you’ll find signs that point to different lookouts along the way. Trail markers will keep you heading in the right direction at all times.

Elevation Changes and Technical Sections

The final 500 metres are the toughest. You’ll climb 95 metres up a steep staircase. It’s a workout.

Distance	Landmark	Elevation Change	Terrain Type
0-1.2	Powerline Road to Creek	-80m descent	Wide gravel path
1.2-2.6	Creek Bridge to Open Bluff	Gradual incline	Forest trail with stairs
2.6-3.6	Bluff to Nymphe Cove	Minimal change	Mossy forest path
3.6-4.0	Cove to Viewpoint	+95m climb	Steep wooden staircase

Breathtaking Seymour Narrows Viewpoint

When you get to the top of Ripple Rock lookout, you see the amazing view of the Seymour Narrows. It’s a living piece of history, and you have reached the halfway point of your hike.

If you look closely or have brought your binoculars, you should be able to see swirling, whirling water, showing why this place is still challenging for boats to navigate.

Historic Marine Disaster Site

You’re now standing over a place with a dark past. Below is where the marine disaster took place and claimed at least 114 lives before 1958, a tragic reminder of the dangers associated with non-nuclear explosions in the area.

Two deadly rocks were hidden just 1.8 and 2.7 meters under the water at low tide, posing a serious threat for passing vessels. They caused fast water and huge whirlpools, sinking many ships.

On April 5, 1958, a huge explosion changed everything. It was the biggest non-nuclear blast ever, an event that changed the landscape forever. It broke 370,000 tons of rock and moved 220,000 tons of water, ending the marine danger.

Optimal Timing and Seasonal Considerations

Your adventure starts with smart timing. It’s worth getting this right. This trail is open all year, making it flexible for hikers.

But, each season has its own charm and challenges, presenting unique hazards for outdoor enthusiasts. This can make or break your experience, especially when considering the hazards of the terrain.

Best Months for Hiking Ripple Rock

Here’s the truth about Ripple Rock Trail – you can hike it any month. Each season adds its own magic to this route.

Spring (April-June): Wildflowers bloom and forests grow green, but ticks are more active
Summer (July-August): Weather is most stable with long days for photos
Fall (September-November): Great for wildlife photos – salmon fill Menzies Creek
Winter (December-March): Doable with the right gear and layers, especially when navigating underwater paths.

Weather Patterns and Trail Conditions

Avoid stormy or very windy days. The viewpoint is less dramatic when it’s foggy. The trail goes through forests that grew back after logging.

These forests are lush and handle weather well.

Avoiding Peak Crowds

Here’s your tip for avoiding crowds: hike on weekday mornings, Tuesday to Thursday. Summer weekends are busier because of Elk Falls Provincial Park.

Conclusion

The Ripple Rock Trail is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through time and nature. Each step takes you deeper into coastal forest, past mossy paths and rugged terrain, until you arrive at a viewpoint that feels both breathtaking and humbling.

Standing above Seymour Narrows, you not only witness the raw power of the ocean but also stand on the site of one of Canada’s most remarkable engineering achievements. It’s a place where natural beauty and human history collide, reminding you that this landscape has shaped lives, challenged technology, and inspired awe for generations. Whether you come for the workout, the view, or the story, this trail offers an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Ripple Rock?

Ripple Rock was destroyed in 1958 by the largest non-nuclear explosion in history. The underwater twin peaks in Seymour Narrows, near Campbell River, were blasted to improve marine safety by removing the dangerous obstruction that had caused numerous shipwrecks.

What was the largest non nuclear explosion in Canada?

The largest non-nuclear explosion in Canada was the 1958 Ripple Rock blast near Campbell River, British Columbia. Engineers detonated 1.2 kilotons of explosives underwater to remove dangerous rock pinnacles, making it the world’s largest planned non-nuclear explosion at the time.

how big was the ripple rock explosion?

The Ripple Rock explosion was massive—it removed 635,000 tons of rock with the world’s largest non-nuclear blast in 1958. If you’re wondering how big the Ripple Rock explosion was, it equaled 1.2 kilotons of TNT, dramatically reshaping marine navigation near Campbell River, BC.