Mount Hays Lookout
A challenging hike leading to breathtaking 180-degree coastal views of Prince Rupert, Digby Island, and beyond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for distant views
Mount Hays Lookout
Best Time
Best visibility for distant views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging hike leading to breathtaking 180-degree coastal views of Prince Rupert, Digby Island, and beyond.
"The 180-degree view beyond Digby Island are 100% worth the walk and trek through the bush!"
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
Regular cars may struggle with washouts. A 4x4 is best, or be prepared for a longer hike from the base.
🥾 Trekking Poles are a Must
Essential for navigating the uneven, soggy trail and steep inclines.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 17 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Summit of Mount Hays
Breathtaking 180-degree vistas of Digby Island, Prince Rupert, and on clear days, Haida Gwaii and Alaska.
Scenic Waterfalls
Along the access road
Discover several picturesque waterfalls cascading down the mountainside during your drive or hike.
Challenging Uphill Trek
Trail to the lookout
A rewarding 45-minute to 2.5-hour uphill hike over varied terrain, offering a great workout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions & Access
Hiking Gear Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Off the beaten path advice
Hey Prince Rupert! I am traveling through with my dad on a road trip from Calgary in August. I am curious if there are any off the beaten path or brand new places I should check out. I noticed lots of the posts on here are quite old and the newest guide book of “BC lonely…
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
Regular cars may struggle with washouts. A 4x4 is best, or be prepared for a longer hike from the base.
🥾 Trekking Poles are a Must
Essential for navigating the uneven, soggy trail and steep inclines.
Does anyone recognize this ski resort? Taken ~1940
Help! Should I rent a car?
Hi all, Im visiting PR for work and found out I'm off this weekend. I have a few hours to decide whether I rent a car to explore or see the town on foot. I've already seen downtown and the bay. Are there any cool day trips I could make, or even overnight trips? As long as…
👟 Wear Waterproof Boots
The trail can be very wet and muddy, so waterproof footwear is key.
⏱️ Allow Ample Time
The hike can take 45 mins to 2.5 hours round trip, plus time for enjoying the view.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
Regular cars may struggle with washouts. A 4x4 is best, or be prepared for a longer hike from the base.
🥾 Trekking Poles are a Must
Essential for navigating the uneven, soggy trail and steep inclines.
👟 Wear Waterproof Boots
The trail can be very wet and muddy, so waterproof footwear is key.
⏱️ Allow Ample Time
The hike can take 45 mins to 2.5 hours round trip, plus time for enjoying the view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning 180-degree panoramic views from Mount Hays Lookout, calling it a highlight of Prince Rupert. The challenging uphill hike is considered well worth the effort, with picturesque waterfalls along the way. However, the rough road conditions and potential for washouts are a significant drawback, often requiring a 4x4 or a longer hike.
"Where the pin is is where I met a BC hydro truck and he recommended that we didn’t go any further. He’s on his way back down to Rupert to get a quad cause there’s too many washouts."
Paul Engen
"Walked to the lookout area. A steady up hill climb. Then about 300m on uneven trail over very soggy earth and logs and down a set of “ stairs” walking poles would be a great asset. The 180degree view beyond Digby Island are 100% worth the walk and trek through the bush! A couple very pretty waterfalls along the road too. 10/10 recommend if you are able to walk a steady uphill grade for approximately 45 minutes"
monique driediger
"The most amazing climb to top of Prince Rupert. 2800 feet or so, you can see Haida Gwaii and Alaska on sunny day."
Marko Kessler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access is via a road that can be in poor condition, with washouts. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended. If driving a regular car, you may need to park lower down and hike the rest of the way.
No, the road is unpaved and can be rough. Travelers have reported significant washouts, making it challenging for standard vehicles.
It depends on the road conditions and your vehicle. A 4x4 is advised. Some visitors have had to turn back due to road damage.
The drive from Prince Rupert is relatively short, but the road quality significantly impacts travel time and feasibility.
Public transport is not available for direct access to Mount Hays Lookout. Driving or arranging a private shuttle is necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Mount Hays Lookout. It is a natural viewpoint and hiking area.
Mount Hays Lookout is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, road conditions can affect accessibility, especially in winter.
No, booking tickets is not required as there is no admission fee. You can visit at your leisure, weather and road conditions permitting.
No permits are required for general visitors to Mount Hays Lookout.
Check local Prince Rupert forums or ask locals about current road conditions, as there isn't an official 'open/closed' status.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike from the base to the lookout can take approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours one way, depending on your fitness level and trail conditions. Some describe the round trip from the CBC Towers as a 2.5-hour hike.
The hike is considered moderately difficult due to the steady uphill climb and uneven, sometimes soggy, terrain with logs and 'stairs'.
Expect stunning 180-degree panoramic views of Prince Rupert, Digby Island, and on clear days, you can see as far as Haida Gwaii and Alaska.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms at the lookout itself. It's a natural viewpoint.
The hike can be challenging for very young children due to the terrain and incline. Older children who are comfortable with hiking may enjoy it.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful golden hour shots. Clear days provide the best visibility for expansive landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the coastline.
The main viewpoint offers the most iconic shots. Look for interesting foreground elements like rocks or trees to add depth to your landscape photos.
Drone regulations vary. Always check Transport Canada guidelines and local bylaws before flying a drone in the area.
You can capture stunning coastal landscapes, cityscapes of Prince Rupert, and potentially wildlife if you're lucky.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit