Embarking on the enchanting trails of Vancouver Island has surged in popularity, especially in the wake of the recent pandemic. The global pause has underscored the profound significance of immersing oneself in nature. Now, with the Island's myriad trails beckoning, the real challenge lies in selecting that perfect starting point. We've got you covered if you're in the mood for a breezy stroll!
Join me in exploring this curated guide, unveiling the crème de la crème of Mid-Vancouver Island trails—all under 4 km. But these aren't your run-of-the-mill hikes; each trail promises a spellbinding spectacle for every walker and hiker. Let's lace up our boots and discover the extraordinary within the ordinary.
A note about the trail lengths. A loop trail provides the total km needed to complete the walk. If ‘loop trail' is not mentioned, the kms must be doubled to return to the starting point. That said, all the trails mentioned below are under 4 km, even after being doubled.
Any blue highlighted text you see below links to more information about the location.
Vancouver Island Trails Under 1 km
Nymph Falls
Located on Forbidden Plateau Road just north of Courtenay, this spectacular waterfall is easily accessible. This trail is a leisurely 600-meter stroll to the falls. From fall through to spring, the waters rage through this area, much to the delight of white water enthusiasts. And the Summer months bring calmer glacial waters and a great place to swim.
Hike the Nymph Falls Nature Park loop if you want a longer walk.
Little Mountain
You can drive to the very top of this mountain near Parksville, making your walk to the spectacular view only a few steps away. Take in the expansive view and watch for hawks and other raptors soar above you.
If you want a longer hike, start at the bottom and walk up the 2.1 km trail.
Top Bridge
This suspension bridge spanning the Englishman River in Parksville is a must-see and easily accessible from the parking area. This portion of the river is a popular spot during the summer, as the large rock below the bridge, called “The Nose,” provides a fun place to jump into the water. If you wish to make your walk a little longer, many trails are available after you cross the bridge.
Englishman River Estuary
A short 0.9km walk takes you to a birder's paradise. The estuary is part of the Parksville-Qualicum Beach Wildlife Management Areas, comprising over 1,000 hectares of land between Craig Bay and the Little Qualicum River. This wildlife-rich area supports over 250 bird species, 23 mammals, all species of Pacific salmon, plus several amphibians and reptiles. The estuary is also a critical staging ground for the Brant Goose.
Petroglyph Park
If history is your thing, stop at this Nanaimo Provincial Park. A five-minute walk around the clearly marked trail gives you access to several petroglyphs. They are moss-covered and hard to spot, but trying to find them is half the fun! A display board at the beginning shows you what you are looking for.
Morden Colliery
This historic Provincial Park in south Nanaimo gives us a unique glimpse into the mining world. And, as well, the ability to view one of North America's last remaining coal tipples. The tipple can be viewed from the parking area; however, I highly suggest continuing along the 1.2 km loop trail for a longer walk to view other mining artifacts.
Vancouver Island Trails: Around 2 km
Roberts Memorial Park
Located in Yellow Point, this 1 km trail leads you through a grove of Douglas Fir trees to a rocky oceanfront where you will find unique sandstone ledges and small tidal pools. Although wide enough for a stroller, this trail can sometimes be steep and muddy.
Hole in the Wall
This unique attraction near Port Alberni is popular for a good reason. Not only do you get to view a historic landmark, but at only 1.3 km, it's also easy to get to! The area is a popular cooling-off spot during the hot summer months; however, for great water flow, go during the wet seasons (late fall to early spring).
Neck Point
Named for a gravel bar connecting the park to a large rock out in the water, Neck Point Park in North Nanaimo offers stunning ocean views. The rock off the gravel bar is the perfect location to sit and watch sea lions and, if you are lucky, sometimes even orcas as they pass by. The 1.5 km trail that runs through the park is mostly developed and consists of a few boardwalks (with stairs), lookouts, and information boards.
Englishman River Falls
The Englishman River Falls loop is approximately 1.5 km long and crosses the river twice, delighting walkers with stunning canyon views below. Viewing areas and platforms are provided at various key locations throughout the park. This Provincial Park is found just outside of Parksville.
Cathedral Grove (MacMillan Provincial Park)
One of the most accessible locations on Vancouver Island to find an old-growth forest is MacMillan Provincial Park, otherwise known as Cathedral Grove. On the 1.6 km loop trail, visitors can stroll through giant Douglas fir trees, some more than 800 years old.
Vancouver Island Trails Under 4 km
Elk Falls
This 25-meter high waterfall is an easy 1.8 km walk from the parking area on a clearly marked, relatively flat and well-maintained trail. A set of steep stairs leads you to the suspension bridge and lower viewing platform, providing the best vantage points of this beautiful waterfall near Campbell River.
The Abyss
The Abyss is a very large fissure or crack in the earth found near the south Nanaimo area. It's approximately 50 cm wide, but no one knows how deep it goes. All around the Abyss, you can find other more minor earth cracks. It’s a unique geological formation one should see. If you go on this approximate 1.8 km trek, please keep dogs on a leash and young children close at hand.
Buttertubs Marsh
Buttertubs Marsh is a bird and wildlife sanctuary just minutes from downtown Nanaimo. Spend an hour or so meandering along the flat and easy gravel trail, stopping to enjoy the view. There are several observation decks on this 2km loop trail, plus a tower for bird watching and viewing the body of water buzzing with activity.
Paradise Meadows
Paradise Meadows's 2km Centennial loop trail is fully accessible and stroller-friendly. This short loop leads along a boardwalk, passing a beautiful meadow and one pretty pond. The entire Paradise Meadows loop is 4.2 km, but it is totally worthwhile if you are up for a longer trek.
Stamp River
A well-maintained, 2-kilometre loop trail explores the riverbank in this Port Alberni Provincial Park. The path passes by fish ladders and fast-moving rapids and is a popular location during the salmon run (fall). Several lookout points along the river offer excellent views of the salmon fighting their way up the rapids.
Little Qualicum Falls
An easy 3km loop leads you through this park to view the lower and upper waterfalls. Strategic lookout points are located along the trail, offering spectacular views. The trail meanders through old-growth and second-growth forests along the river.
Kitsuksis Waterfall and Trestle
This 3.4 km loop trail is found in the heart of Port Alberni, yet one feels like you are in a magical spot. Once you view the waterfall from ground level, head up the steep hill on your left-hand side to the top of the trestle. It gives you a beautiful vantage point of the trestle and waterfall from above…that is, if you dare to cross the high structure!
Fossli Park
Another stunning area of Port Alberni is the hidden Provincial Park called Fossli. This 3.4 km loop trail has it all! Suspension bridge, waterfalls, crystal clear creek, and a beautiful treed forest. And the best part? It's tucked away and a bit more difficult to find, making it a truly peaceful spot to explore.
Cumberland Potholes
The dramatic landscape and topography of the Cumberland Potholes make this 2 km hike worthwhile. Tucked into the Cumberland Forest, this unique natural wonder has become a popular location to explore. While there, please respect the landscape and take out everything you take in.
Vancouver Island Trails Under 4K Summary
As we wrap up our exploration of these captivating Mid-Vancouver Island trails under 4 km, I sincerely hope this curated list serves as your compass in choosing the ideal shorter treks for your next adventure. With its lush landscapes and hidden gems, Vancouver Island offers many opportunities for those seeking a nature-infused escape.
Remember, each trail on this list unveils its own unique charm, providing not just a walk but an experience. From tranquil forests to breathtaking vistas, these paths beckon you to embrace the beauty surrounding us.
Have I inadvertently overlooked one of your cherished spots? Your insights and favourite trail recommendations are invaluable, so share them with us in the comment section below.
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Looking for More?
Check out these related articles to help you discover even more great trails around the Mid-Island.
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Hi Kim: Always enjoy perusing your lists of great things to do, see and experience on Vancouver Island. We’ve done several of these jaunts as well and they are truly beautiful.
This note is just to let you know I think you meant Brant Goose and not Grant in the section for Englishman River Estuary?
Look forward to reading more of your interesting finds as they come along.
Have a wonderful day and thank you.
You are quite right, it should be Brant! Thank you so much for the catch.