Maplehurst Trail in Port Alberni

Although beautiful at any time of year, with a name like Maplehurst, this trail in Port Alberni was one I wanted to get to in the fall. And, with beautiful autumn colours everywhere you look, the area did not disappoint.

Quick Facts

• Trail Features: Beautiful Maple and Alder trees (fall is a great time to go); footbridges; creek
• Length: 3.2 km loop
• Elevation Gain: 79 meters
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hazards: Several large downed trees; Trail can be muddy; Steep bank
• Suitability: Not wheelchair or stroller friendly
• Bike Trails: Due to the fallen trees, no

Highlights

The wooded area straddles Kitsuksis Creek in the Alberni-Clayoquot Reginal District and offers a network of interesting trails built by volunteers over the years.

The area was last logged over 50 years ago, so you’ll find many large Douglas Fir, Cedar, Gary Oak, Alder, and of course, as the name suggests, Maple trees.

The Trails

The Maplehurst trails consist of a series of interlocking loops allowing for a variety of routes to follow. The main 3.2 km loop trail goes through several maple and alder groves on the eastern section and ends up following the creek on the way back.

You’ll find many footbridges and unique items along the way, making it a great trail for kids. We saw several homemade signs and markers, as well as painted rocks and many other little treasures and trinkets. Keep on the lookout for claw marks where bears have climbed a few of the larger cedar trees.

And speaking of treasures, if you enjoy geocaching, this is a great area to do so. Although we didn’t find them all, we were able to search for at least a dozen of them.

Along with the occasional black bear, the area is said to be home to the endangered Western Painted Turtle, as well as the seldom-seen Pine Marten. Kitsukis Creek also provides an important habit for coho.

Of Importance

• While walking along this mostly flat trail, please keep watch for the many dead trees hanging across the trails. You do not want to be in this area in a wind storm!

• The trails that skirt the creek can be quite muddy at times, so best to wear appropriate foot wear.

• There are a few sections that follow along a high ridge and the bank is quite steep.

• This would be a great area for dog walkers, but please pick up after them and pack it back out (there are no garbage cans available).

Directions

• From the Visitor Information Centre in Port Alberni (on Hwy 4) travel along the highway for approximately 4 km and turn right on Gertrude Street.
• Make another right on Compton Road
• Compton turns into Willow Road after a sharp corner
• Follow Willow Road until the very end
• You will see the trailhead right in front of you
• Please don’t block any driveways when you park

Maplehurst Trail Directions

As mentioned, there are several interlocking loops, so you can easily make your walk any length you like.

To follow the large loop, keep left to walk through the maple and alder groves ending with the creek on your left-hand side on your way back.

While you are in the area…

For more great trails in the area, check out these suggestions:

• Stamp River Park
• Hole in the Wall
• This hidden park (member-only article)

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Have you been to the Maplehurst trails? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below.

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