Destination Canada Brian Caissie
Hiking in MacMillan Provincial Park that’s home to Cathedral Grove.
Words by Steve Fennell
By now, fall has evolved into early winter and many snowbirds have once again settled into an RV park throughout Vancouver Island and for good reason. It’s where balmy weather remains fairly consistent, many natural attractions can be enjoyed through to the spring, and the relaxed island atmosphere provides a peaceful RV retreat.
First-time visitors or even those returning to Vancouver Island have access to many exciting sights, which are more often than not right on the doorstep of many campgrounds. If they aren’t, it’s just a matter of a scenic drive to visit one.
Day trips are a big part of enjoying Vancouver Island and the exciting part is most are unique to the region. Plus, considering that a variety of attractions are more accessible now than they were a year ago, the island can be further enjoyed this winter. Listed below are six exciting Vancouver Island day trips to discover at this Canadian snowbird destination.
Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park
One of the draws to this provincial park is Cathedral Grove, a head-turning natural attraction along Hwy 4 about two hours north of Victoria. It’s hard not to miss and according to BC Parks, it’s one of the most accessible ‘stands of giant Douglas fir trees on Vancouver Island.’ Some date back more than 800 years.
As there are commonly a number of trail systems to explore Cathedral Grove on either side of Hwy 4 - with Western red cedars near Cameron Lake to the north and the Douglas firs to the south - there is now just a one-way single trail that navigates throughout the area. It opened July 1, 2021, after Cathedral Grove was closed to the public for more than a year due to COVID-19. However, it still offers up-close access to these natural giants with surrounding lush, rich greenery.
For more information, regulations and updated guidelines visit www.bcparks.ca
Jeff Hitchcock
The incredible Douglas Firs in Cathedral Grove are conveniently located right along Hwy 4. Some of these giants date back 800 years.
Qualicum Beach
Approximately 23 km (14 mi) east of Cathedral Grove is Qualicum Beach. If there’s time, both areas can be visited on the same day but it’s best to take your time in this appealing community.
Tucked in along the Strait of Georgia on the island’s northeast coast, the area of Qualicum Beach is popular, especially among birders. Of special interest is Rathtrevor Provincial Park, approximately 15 minutes from Qualicum Beach near Parksville. This is where Brant Geese migrate from February to May before heading north to Alaska and the Northwest Territories. Or, go to Hamilton Marsh where there are more than 130-plus species to observe.
However, be sure the scope is packed any time as eagles, osprey, hawks, and vultures can be viewed all year. Rathtrevor even has excellent views of the ocean plus 5.5 km (3.4 mi) of hiking trails. Whale watching tours are also available to observe more wildlife.
Afterwards, take it a little easy in downtown Qualicum Beach that has a number of dining options, shops, boutiques, and artisan stores. For serious art aficionados, the Oceanside Art Gallery showcases excellent works of artists from across Canada.
www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com
Tofino
Part of the Pacific Rim Region at the end of the Esowista Peninsula near Clayoquot Sound on the island’s west coast, Tofino is a rural community with rugged nature and unique attractions. While quieter in the winter, this rustic fishing village is still quite active as it’s known to have ‘the summer that never ends,’ allowing the chance to enjoy many outdoor activities all year.
Marneejill
The rugged shores of Rathtrevor Provincial Park where thousands of Brant Geese migrate before heading far north.
Planning a full day here is a must as it’s a good drive from Victoria (around four hours) and Nanaimo (about three hours). Tofino is known to have some of the best surfing in Canada (even in the winter), but if ‘hanging ten’ or catching some ‘smooth waves’ on the Pacific Coast just isn’t in the cards, perhaps spend part of the day browsing the unique shops downtown and then go for a hike on any number of the trail systems.
For example, the 3 km (2 mi) Tonquin Trail is rated from easy to moderate and leads through stunning Pacific Coast rainforests with access to Tonquin Beach, which is popular for its lingering sunsets. A little more adventure is found on the 3.2 km (1.9 mi) Big Tree Trail on Meares Island with its old-growth forest that’s home to some of the largest, oldest trees in British Columbia. The largest is known as the Hanging Garden. A little more time may be needed for this hike as a quick 10-minute water taxi is necessary to access the island. With many more trail networks, a good day trip can be enjoyed in Pacific Rim National Park that’s home to Long Beach, the South Beach Trail and Radar Hill, to name a few highlights.
Storm Watching in Ucluelet
Approximately 30 minutes along the same shore as Tofino, this rural west coast community attracts adventurous outdoor enthusiasts from November through to March to watch the moody seasonal forces of Mother Nature.
Storm watching outside in high winds and pounding rain while observing the thunderous tide may not be as thrilling to some as it is for others, but it is popular. Even local vacation resorts offer ‘weekend storm packages’ and the proper gear for the unprepared.
To ensure the utmost safety, there are designated areas along Ucluelet’s coast for the best viewing opportunities. These include the Wild Pacific Trail which is about 9 km (6 mi) and leads along rocky shores and through a dense forest where you can get up close to Mother Nature’s grip. It’s stressed to remain on the designated trails, and stay away from - and off - the rocks.
Another vantage point (and a more comfortable one) is the Kwisitis Interpretive Centre on Wickaninnish Beach, approximately 15 km (9 mi) from Ucluelet. There are great views from its large observation deck or where the fierce weather can be experienced from inside the facility. (*Ed note: at the time of publication the Kwisitis Interpretive Centre was temporarily closed due to construction so be sure to inquire about the re-opening and hours of operations before visiting). A great resource for safe storm watching is https://coastsmart.ca/
Once the storms have passed be sure to visit Ucluelet’s downtown to browse the variety of unique shops, galleries and boutiques in Ucluelet.
Phil Smith January
Some of the best ‘storm watching’ locations include the Wild Pacific Trail and the Kwisitis Interpretive Centre on Wickaninnish Beach.
Explore Nanaimo
Those heading from Victoria to Nanaimo along the Trans-Canada may want to stop in Cowichan Valley to visit the new Malahat Skywalk, a 600 m (1,968 ft) walkway that leads up to a spiral tower through the Arbutus forest with a 360-degree lookout 250 m (820 ft) above sea level.
In addition to incredible views of Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker and the Coast Mountains, there's what is called an 'adventure net' where daring guests can walk on an 84 sq m (900 sq ft) net suspended partially across the centre of the tower for another breathtaking perspective on the spiralling structure below. Visitors can also choose their descent with a return walk down the tower or take the 50 m (164 ft) slide to the bottom in about 12 seconds.
Another attraction includes the Nanaimo Harbourfront Walkway, which encompasses parks, a marina as well as shops and a restaurant. More shopping and approximately 20 dining options with various cuisines can be found in Nanaimo’s downtown district.
Additionally, history buffs may want to visit The Nanaimo Museum and discover the history of the Snunéymuxw culture, the coal mining industry and more. Or satisfy that sweet tooth on the Nanaimo Bar Trail as this is the very same region where this decadent dessert originated. Maps can be picked up at the Nanaimo Visitor Center.
1 of 2
Tourism Vancouver Island The Great Trail
Relaxing strolls can always be enjoyed along Nanaimo’s waterfront.
2 of 2
Malahat SkyWalk-Hamish Hamilton
The Malahat Skywalk has a 360-degree lookout 250 m (820 ft) above sea level.
Skiing Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Located between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains of Strathcona Provincial Park, this resort is approximately two hours from Victoria and offers the only designated alpine and nordic skiing on Vancouver Island. It has an elevation of 1,588 m (5,210 ft) and annual snowfall of 1,158cm (456 in). It may not have the elevation nor the heavy accumulation of snow like other parts of the province but if the skiing gear is packed, this is the place on the island to use it.
Family-oriented and ideal for all skill levels, Mount Washington consists of 81 runs with nine lifts, 55 km (34 mi) of cross-country trails and 25 km (16 mi) of snowshoeing trails. There are also ski-in and ski-out accommodations in Mount Washington Village and overnight RV parking is also available at the resort’s Sunrise parking lot. Space is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, maximum stay is three nights and prepare for a boondocking experience as water, sewer or power is not available.
Mount Washington Alpine Resort Slipstream Images