Mount Washington is about 30 kilometres from Courtenay, and the drive takes about 40 minutes. In winter, the resort’s daily Ski and Ride Shuttle is the easy alternative to driving the mountain road yourself.
Driving up the Strathcona Parkway
The route heads out of the Comox Valley and climbs the Strathcona Parkway to the resort. Follow signs for Mount Washington and use a navigation app for live conditions. Allow more time than usual when snow is falling.
The BC Ministry of Transportation requires all vehicles on the Strathcona Parkway to carry good winter tires and chains, ready to use when the chain up light is on. Fit them before you reach the mountain and check DriveBC for road conditions before you leave.
Where to park
Guest parking is at the base of the resort, about 2 kilometres west of the Highway 19 and Strathcona Parkway intersection. From there a resort shuttle bus takes you up to the Alpine Lodge. Parking rules and any fees are listed on the resort’s parking page, so check it for the current details before a busy weekend.
The winter ski shuttle
From December to April the resort runs a Ski and Ride Shuttle Bus every day between the Comox Valley and the mountain. It picks up and drops off at stops around the Comox Valley, and no advance reservation is required. Check the resort’s getting here page for the stop list and the daily times, which can change with the season.
Taxi, and getting to Courtenay first
Outside the shuttle season, or if you want a ride at a different time, a taxi is the alternative. Ask the operator whether they take the mountain road in poor weather. Local operators are listed on the Comox taxi page, and the taxi fare estimator helps with budgeting.
Visitors from Vancouver generally reach the Comox Valley by ferry, bus or a flight into the local airport. Check the carriers’ current schedules before booking.