MUDD SWEAT AND TEARS VANCOUVER ISLAND, the adventure event, returns for the second year in a row on July 19 with six km and 12 km routes.
THE ALPINE WINE FESTIVAL features wine tasting with vintners and distributors and an optional barbecue from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 8 and a wine pairing dinner on Saturday, Aug. 9.
Also scheduled for Aug. 9 is the GUT BUSTER ASCENT RACE, the only uphill trail race on the Island. It’s a six km run up to the top of Mount Washington, with 505 metres of elevation gain. The route starts at the Alpine Lodge.
Some of the world’s best freestyle mountain bike riders return to Mount Washington for the BEARCLAW INVITATIONAL, Aug. 22-23. Darren Berrecloth, arguably one of the best freeriders in the world, will be back in advance of the event to groom the permanent Bearclaw forested course.
A number of family events are planned for the summer, Sharpe said, such as a FAMILY SCAVENGER HUNT on July 26 and the INUKSHUK BUILDING CONTEST
from Aug. 2-4.
Aside from the special events the Mile High chairlift, disc golf, mini golf and the bungee trampoline will be open all season, as will hiking trails around the Resort. Ted’s Bar & Grill will be open daily as well.
Although Raven Lodge is closed (except for weddings) in the summer, the Vancouver Island Mountain Centre is open daily. This year there will be seven tent camping spots available around the Mountain Centre (book through the Centre, not the Resort).
Outdoor programs are available for groups too. “Andrew Scherck, VI Mountain Centre Manager, has a menu of options for people,” Sharpe said.
Recreational vehicles are welcome to set up in the Raven Lodge parking lot free of charge, but there are no services and no sani-station.
The Resort will be open until Labour Day.