The Museum at Campbell River is offering a hike to the lookout at the end of the Ripple Rock Trail in commemoration of the 54th anniversary of the Ripple Rock explosion.
On April 5, 1958, at 9:31a.m., the blast, using 1,400 tons of explosives, was the largest man-made non-nuclear explosion in history.
Ripple Rock was an underwater, twin-peaked mountain in the Seymour Narrows of Discovery Passage – a part of the marine trade route from Vancouver and coastal points north.
Only 2.7 metres (9 feet) underwater at low tide, it was a marine hazard, described by the explorer George Vancouver as “one of vilest stretches of water in the world.”
The Ripple Rock explosion was seen throughout Canada, live on CBC Television. It was one of the first live coast to coast television coverages of an event in Canada.
This marine hazard was responsible for the sinking of more than 20 large vessels and at least 100 small boats.
The hike, with guide Ross Keller, offers a fantastic view of the challenging waters of Seymour Narrows. The hike takes place on Thurs., April 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and is planned to arrive at the lookout for the commemorative hour of 9:31 a.m. The cost is $20 per person. Please pre-register with the Museum at (250) 287-3103.
