Although beautiful at any time of year, with a name like Maplehurst, this trail in Port Alberni is one to get to in the fall. There are beautiful autumn colours everywhere you look.
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, as the name suggests, Maple trees.
The Trails
The Maplehurst trails consist of a series of interlocking loops, allowing for various 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, painted rocks and many other treasures and trinkets. Look for claw marks where bears have climbed a few of the larger cedar trees.
Speaking of treasures, this is a great area if you enjoy geocaching. Although we didn't find all of them, we did find 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 and 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 windstorm!
- The trails that skirt the creek can sometimes be muddy, so it is best to wear appropriate footwear.
- A few sections 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. Unfortunately, no garbage cans are available, so you will have to pack it back out again.
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:
Have you been to the Maplehurst trails? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below.
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Definitely a beautiful trail. That’s what I live about living in the Alberni Valley, trails and waterways surround us. So easy to play outdoors in all weather, just the way nature intended.
Beautifully said! And I look forward to discovering more trails in your area.
Gorgeous, colourful scenery, Kim. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much, Valerie!
Inviting walk! Thanks for the tip.
You’re welcome. It really is a beautiful spot!