Teapot Hill
Just 15 minutes from the Hazelnut Inn stands Teapot Hill, a woodland trail that feels as though it wound its way out of a fable.
The Legend
Its story began once upon a time, when a sturdy woodsman stepped into a quiet, mossy glade and discovered a solitary porcelain teapot sitting atop a velvet-green stump. Perhaps it was left by a mischievous pixie, or maybe by someone who understood that a cup of tea is an invitation to sit and listen. This chance discovery gave the hill its name and sparked a decades-long tradition. Today, porcelain teapots sit nestled among the ferns like strange, stubborn mushrooms.
The Climb
To explore the magic, simply gather your walking sticks, sneak some snacks from your suite, and set out for a gentle game of hide-and-seek. As you begin your hike, the forest enfolds you like a heavy green cloak. The trail presents a steady, puff-and-pant uphill climb, narrowing from a generous gravel path to packed earth switchbacks.
The Woods
A yearlong fringe of sword ferns frames your journey. In the spring, the forest wakes to delicate phantom orchids, while summer brings tiger lilies nodding their heads in the sunlight.
The woodland canopy echoes with the occasional knocking of woodpeckers and the raspy calls of Steller’s Jays. If you keep a watchful eye, you might even spot a velvet-eared deer peeking through the thick huckleberry bushes.
The Summit
Upon reaching the top, the final viewpoint offers a modest, quiet glimpse of Cultus Lake framed by tall, ancient trees. While it is a peaceful place to rest, the true prize is the enchantment gathered along the way. Teapot Hill reminds us that the real joy of a journey is the wonder discovered on the way.
After a splendid two-hour trek of hunting for pixie treasures, you can wander back down the hill and return to your cozy suite at the Hazelnut Inn to enjoy a well-deserved cup of tea.
Trail Overview
Location: 22V8+2F, Cultus Lake, BC, V2R 0E1
Travel Time: 15 minute drive
Hiking Distance: 5 km round-trip
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 250 metres
Difficulty: Moderate