Top 10 Nanaimo Walks: Scenic and Easy Trails for Every Explorer

Nanaimo is home to some of the most scenic and accessible walking trails on Vancouver Island. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local looking to rediscover familiar favourites, these Nanaimo walks offer an easy way to enjoy the outdoors without tackling a strenuous hike.

This guide highlights the top 10 walks in Nanaimo, featuring relaxed trails with beautiful coastal views, peaceful forests, and unique natural landmarks. Perfect for families, casual explorers, and anyone seeking a gentle outdoor escape, each walk combines easy terrain with memorable scenery.

Organized from North to South Nanaimo, this list includes beloved parks like Neck Point, along with lesser-known gems such as the Abyss.

Lace up your walking shoes and discover some of Nanaimo’s most enjoyable and accessible trails.

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Top 10 Nanaimo Walks

1 – Neck Point Park

Named for its unique gravel bar connecting to a large rock out in the water, Neck Point Park offers some of Nanaimo's most stunning ocean views. The rock at the end of the gravel bar is a fantastic spot to watch for marine wildlife. Sea lions are regular visitors, and if you're lucky, you might even spot orcas passing through!

The main trail through Neck Point Park is well-developed, with sections of boardwalk (including a few staircases), scenic lookouts, and information boards to guide you along the way. The park’s rugged shoreline and rocky bluffs also offer numerous secluded nooks to explore, making it a favourite for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Despite being first on the list simply due to geography, this is my personal favourite park to wander through in Nanaimo. No matter how many times I frequent this gem, the incredible scenery never gets old.

Insider Tip: Look in the forested sections for whimsical fairy houses tucked among the large trees. Children and adults alike find them a delightful surprise. While most of these houses are just for show, there's one special door that opens to reveal a few treasures inside.

Walk Details

• Location: North Nanaimo, at the end of Morningside Drive (off Hammond Bay Road).

• Wheelchair / Stroller Accessibility: Much of the main park trail is accessible, though sections along the shoreline and elevated boardwalks include stairs.

• The Trails: Several trails make a loop within the park, beginning and ending at the main parking lot. To follow the accessible route, you'd go along the innermost trail and through the forested areas. For the most scenic route, you follow the outermost trails along the shoreline. This 2.9km loop trail is my favourite, as it offers the best of both.

• Dog Friendly? Dogs are welcome at this park but must be kept on a leash at all times.

2 – Linley Valley Cottle Lake Park

Linley Valley Cottle Lake Park is a gem that offers a peaceful escape into nature. This serene area in North Nanaimo is known for scenic trails that wind through a variety of terrain, including lush forests, rocky knolls, open meadows, and boardwalks.

The main 1.6km trail around Cottle Lake is a gentle, well-maintained path that’s perfect for an easy walk while soaking in the area's natural beauty. Cottle Lake is a lovely spot to pause, relax and watch for wildlife.

With several side trails and boardwalks, this park offers ample opportunities to explore the forest in greater depth and discover hidden gems. In fact, there are so many offshoot trails in this area that following an online map is essential (at least for this directionally challenged gal!).

If you want to explore more of this beautiful area and experience the most diverse terrain, I highly recommend this 5.1-km loop trail.

Insider Tip: Follow this more strenuous route to find a unique Cairn and a stunning bird's-eye view of Departure Bay. Trust me, the view is more than worth the effort.

Walk Details

• Location: North Nanaimo, with main access off Rock City Road or from the end of Burma Road.

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessibility: Unfortunately, due to the varied terrain, these trails are not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.

• Dog-Friendly? Dogs are allowed on leash; however, wildlife sightings are common, so extra caution is recommended.

3 – Ammonite Falls

Located in Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, Ammonite Falls is a captivating natural attraction that is popular for its easy yet scenic hike. Named after the fossilized ammonites embedded in the area, this waterfall cascades gracefully down a rock face, creating a tranquil pool at its base. It's a breathtaking view in any season.

The trail to the falls meanders through lush forested areas, offering a peaceful walk amid towering trees and abundant ferns. Thanks to recent upgrades by the Regional District of Nanaimo, a new platform now provides safe, easy access to the falls, making this destination more accessible for all hikers.

Along the way, you’ll find a mix of wide paths and shaded forest sections that open up to rewarding views of the waterfall.

Ammonite Falls is my second favourite of the top ten Nanaimo walks.

Insider Tip: There are two waterfalls in the park; the second is well hidden. While you are in the park, search for fossils in the rocks. These unique features give Ammonite Falls its name. For the best experience, plan to visit in late fall or spring, when water levels are higher, for a more dramatic cascade.

Walk Details

• Location: North-Nanaimo
  • The Weigles Road access point provides a 3.2 km out-and-back trail
  • The Creekside Place access point provides a 4.8 km out-and-back trail

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessibility: The trail upgrades make this hike accessible, though some sections may still have uneven, somewhat steep terrain and stairs.

• Dog Friendly? This is a dog-friendly trail.

4 – Westwood Lake

Westwood Lake Park is a local favourite, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational fun for everyone.

The park’s main trail loops around the sparkling waters of Westwood Lake and provides a scenic and moderately easy walk with breathtaking views of Mount Benson in the background.

With its peaceful lake setting and forested surroundings, Westwood Lake Park is the perfect spot for a refreshing walk, a family picnic, or even a relaxing day by the water.

The main loop trail is well-maintained and provides access to several small beaches along the lake, where you can take a break to enjoy the water views or even dip your toes in. The gentle terrain around Westwood Lake makes this trail suitable for walkers of all ages and is especially popular with joggers and cyclists.

With playgrounds, picnic tables, and swimming spots, this park truly has something for everyone.

Insider Tip: In summer, bring your swimsuit and enjoy a swim from one of the park’s designated beaches. Westwood Lake is one of Nanaimo’s best places for a freshwater dip!

Walk Details

• Location: Mid-Nanaimo, at the end of Westwood Road.

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessibility: The main trail is partially accessible; some sections have slight inclines and narrow sections that may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.

• Trail Length: Approximately 5.5 km loop around the lake.

• Dog Friendly? Dogs are welcome but must be leashed on the main trail. There is an off-leash area accessible from the main trail.

5 – Bowen Park

In the heart of Nanaimo lies a jewel of a park with much to offer. This vibrant park is packed with amenities, including a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, disc golf course, skate park, seniors centre, lawn bowling, lacrosse box, curling club, tennis courts, sand volleyball, horseshoe pitches, an outdoor amphitheatre, playgrounds, picnic shelters, waterfalls and a scenic duck pond.

Whether you are seeking a peaceful nature walk or a lively day out, Bowen Park has you covered.

The park’s interpretive trails meander along the Millstone River, offering a relaxing and educational walk through lush surroundings. Be sure to visit the duck pond, the charming waterfall, the fish ladder, and the totem poles resting proudly along the trails.

Insider Tip: Visit the Administration office (8:30 am – 4:00 pm) to borrow a set of discs for disc golf. If you visit during spring, don’t miss the rhododendron grove in full bloom. If you are there in the summer, the rose garden is beautiful, too.

Walk Details

• Location: Central-Nanaimo at 500 Bowen Road.

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessibility: Yes, many areas of the park are accessible.

• Trail Length: Bowen Park features a series of interconnected trails, so you can explore for an hour or make a full afternoon of it. There’s always something new to see and do.

• Dog Friendly? Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times.

6 – Buttertubs Marsh

For a peaceful escape into nature, Buttertubs Marsh is a serene sanctuary ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone looking to unwind.

This 100-acre wetland conservation area is home to a wide variety of bird species, including red-winged blackbirds, great blue herons, and waterfowl, making it a prime spot for birdwatching year-round.

The level loop trail encircles the marsh, offering views of lily-covered ponds, lush greenery, and an array of wildlife habitats. Benches along the path provide spots to sit and take in the tranquil scenery, making Buttertubs Marsh an ideal place for a leisurely walk. Keep your eyes peeled for frogs, turtles, herons and even river otters if you’re lucky!

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars or a zoom lens and head to one of the viewing towers for a better vantage point to observe the marsh’s wildlife and birds.

Walk Details

• Location: Central-Nanaimo – The main access is off Jingle Pot Road.

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessibility: Although the trail around the marsh is wide and flat, narrow entry gates prevent motorized vehicles from entering the marsh. These gates may make it difficult to enter or exit with a stroller or wheelchair if it doesn't fold down compactly enough.

• Trail Length: 2 km loop

• Dog Friendly? No! As this is a nature sanctuary, dogs are not allowed in this park.

7 – Colliery Dam Park

Originally constructed in the early 1900s to supply water to nearby coal mines, Colliery Dam Park has since become a great spot for outdoor recreation. The park is popular for its scenic picnic areas, trout fishing, and swimming, offering a perfect retreat for a fun-filled day outdoors.

The park's main trail features a figure-eight system that loops around the lower and upper lakes, providing easy access to shady, forested paths, scenic bridge crossings, and picturesque waterfall views. This park has two waterfalls: one is a spillway near the start of the trail, and the other is more hidden. Use the above-linked post for full details on where to find the hidden falls.

This figure-eight trail, shaded by mature trees, is a peaceful choice for a short hike and offers access to an off-leash dog area, making it a great destination for dog owners. Some parts of the trail include steep sections and narrow bridge crossings near the upper dam, adding a bit of adventure.

The area also connects to the Parkway Trail, a 20 km paved path connecting several of Nanaimo's beautiful parks.

Insider Tip: Early mornings are the best time to visit for a quiet, serene walk with fewer people. And if you’re a bird watcher, keep your eyes open for eagles and herons around the lakes.

Walk Details

• Location: South Nanaimo in the University District (645 Wakesiah Avenue). Parking lots are available off both Wakesiah Ave. and Nanaimo Lakes Road.

• Wheelchair / Stroller Accessibility: Partially. The best wheelchair access is from the park's main entrance off Wakesiah and Sixth Street. This paved parking lot leads to a hard-packed, level asphalt path that leads to the first lake.

• Trail Length: Approximately 2.5 km of interconnecting trails.

• Dog Friendly? The dog park is at the upper lake, AKA “Middle Colliery Dam.” The trail that loops around this portion of the dam is an off-leash area. Many families enjoy walking their dogs in this section. The parking area closest to the dog park is off Nanaimo Lakes Road. This parking area also leads you to a bridge between the two dams.

8 – The Abyss

One of Nanaimo’s most unique natural features, the Abyss, is a fascinating geological anomaly found along the Extension Ridge trail. This deep, narrow fissure in the bedrock stretches through the ground, creating a striking and mysterious sight.

Locals love this spot for its captivating views and the adventure of exploring the surrounding trails.

The trail to the Abyss begins with a steady incline through forested terrain, eventually leading to the famous crack in the Earth.

While the Abyss itself is the main highlight, the trail continues with scenic viewpoints overlooking the Nanaimo River valley and the distant mountains. Plus, there is a hidden labyrinth you can find as well. Use the above-highlighted link to discover how to find it.

Insider Tip: Stay cautious around the edges of the fissure, especially with small dogs and young children, as the drop is significant.

Walk Details

• Location: South Nanaimo, with trail access off Harewood Mines Road.

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible? No, the trail includes uneven and steep sections.

• Trail Length: Approximately 2 km round trip to the Abyss, with the option to extend along Extension Ridge.

• Dog Friendly? Yes, dogs are welcome, but they should be kept on a leash near the Abyss for safety.

9 – Hemer Provincial Park

Hemer Provincial Park offers an escape into nature with its extensive network of forested trails surrounding beautiful Holden Lake.

A favourite among nature lovers, this park features a peaceful marsh area with a viewing platform perfect for birdwatching. The trails wind through lush forests and over charming wooden bridges, offering plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a longer adventure, the variety of trail lengths makes it suitable for all levels. The highlight for many visitors is spotting the elegant trumpeter swans gliding gracefully along the lake. They are a true treat to spot, especially in the cooler months.

Insider Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance of spotting wildlife and enjoying the park's quiet serenity.

Walk Details

• Location: South Nanaimo in Cedar. Access via Hemer Road off Cedar Road.

• Wheelchair / Stroller Accessibility: Yes, many trails are accessible, though some sections may have uneven terrain.

• Trail Length: Approximately 11 km of interconnected trails of varying lengths

• Dog Friendly? This is a wonderful place to bring your dog(s), but they must be leashed at all times.

10 – Jack Point and Biggs Park

Jack Point and Biggs Park is a hidden gem offering one of the most scenic walks near Nanaimo.

This coastal trail winds along the shoreline of the Nanaimo River estuary, providing breathtaking views of Departure Bay, Gabriola Island, and the bustling ferries as they pass by.

The trail features unique sandstone formations, picturesque beaches, and secluded coves, making it a fantastic spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The pathway is well-maintained, with wooden stairs and bridges guiding you through lush forests and along rugged cliffs. Several benches are strategically placed along the route, inviting you to pause and take in the incredible ocean views.

At the far end of the trail, a viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Nanaimo Harbour—ideal for a break and photos.

Insider Tip: Plan your visit during low tide to explore the tide pools and get closer to the unique sandstone formations. This trail is also a great spot to bring a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view!

Walk Details

• Location: South Nanaimo. Access via the Duke Point Highway; park at the Biggs Park parking lot.

• Wheelchair/Stroller Accessibility: Only the first 300 meters are wheelchair- and/or stroller-accessible. But the views in those first 300 meters are spectacular!

• Trail Length: Approximately 5 km round trip.

• Dog Friendly? Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash.

BONUS! – Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park

Though small in size at just 4 hectares, Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Vancouver Island’s mining history.

In 1912, this site housed a working coal mine. Today, it is known for housing the island’s only remaining coal tipple, visible from behind the safety of a fence. History buffs and those interested in the region's industrial past will find this park a hidden gem.

The short trail leads you through lush forests, crosses over marshy areas via well-constructed bridges, and culminates at the serene Nanaimo River. It's a peaceful walk with a rich historical backdrop, making it an ideal destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Insider Tip: Geocaching enthusiasts will be delighted to know there are several caches hidden in and around this park. Happy hunting!

Walk Details

• Location: South Nanaimo. Just south of the Duke Point ferry turn-off, with parking at the end of Morden Road (off Highway 1).

• Wheelchair / Stroller Accessibility: This trail is flat and easy to navigate.

• Trail Length: 1.2 km round trip

• Dog-Friendly? Dogs are welcome, but must remain on a leash.

Why you should go

Nanaimo’s walking trails offer one of the easiest ways to experience the incredible diversity of Vancouver Island landscapes in a single city. In just a few short walks, you can wander rugged coastlines, peaceful wetlands, lush forests, and historic sites. Each trail reveals a different side of Nanaimo’s character.

These walks aren’t about conquering steep summits or chasing kilometres. They’re about slowing down, breathing in the ocean air, spotting wildlife along the shoreline, and rediscovering how refreshing a simple walk in nature can be.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, these trails invite you to see Nanaimo a little differently — one relaxing stroll at a time. Lace up your walking shoes, bring your camera, and start exploring. Your next favourite walk might be closer than you think.