While out seeking a few nearby hidden gems, we discovered the trail system of the Puntledge River Recreation Area. BC Hydro owns this beautiful area and has abundant multi-use trails to explore. The majority of which start at the Comox Lake Dam near Cumberland.
Quick Facts
- Trail Features: Multi-use trails; Second growth forest; Water features; Footbridges;
- Length: A variety of lengths
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate, depending on the trail chosen
- Suitability: Everyone! (Trail dependent)
- Bike Trails: Yes! The majority of these trails were created for mountain bikers.
A Bit of History
In 1912, Canadian Collieries Ltd. developed the hydroelectric potential of Comox Lake and the Puntledge River to provide electricity for the operation of its coal mines in the surrounding areas.
In 1955, BC Hydro's predecessor, the BC Power Commission, acquired the development. The company then rebuilt the diversion dam, penstocks and powerhouse to expand the electrical output to nearby communities. The dam was upgraded once again in 1982.
The heavily treed property surrounding the dam was made into a multi-use trail system for all to enjoy. These trails were also built to connect with Nymph Falls Nature Park.
The Trails
The Puntledge River Recreation Area has trails that suit everyone. There are trails for biking, hiking, and walking and even ones suited for sports wheelchairs (so also great for strollers). The trails are very well marked, and some even have a difficulty rating on the posted signs.
Here's an overview of the trails found within the Puntledge River Recreation area.
Designated Walking/Hiking Trails
River Trail West
This easy 5.5 km trail follows the west side of the Puntledge River. Along this trail, you'll find numerous boardwalks, bridges, and plenty of benches to enjoy the beautiful river views.
If you are looking for an even longer walk, this trail eventually connects to the trails within Nymph Falls Regional Park.
River Trail East
This 4 km trail follows along the east side of the Puntledge River and ends near the Lake View Guesthouse in Bevan. Look for the eagle head carving while on your walk.
Twin Lakes Trail
This easy walking trail is only 600 meters (one way). On the trail, you'll walk past two small lakes (more like ponds). Link back around by following the Loop Trail (below).
Loop Trail
This interesting 1.7 km loop trail offers walkers benches to relax on, a log bridge to cross over and plenty of lake, forest and river views.
Multi-Use Trails
The following trails are designated as biking and hiking trails and are equally enjoyable to do both.
Bevan Trail
This 4.8 km (one-way) trail begins at the Comox Lake Dam and ends at the Puntledge Diversion Dam near the old townsite of Bevan. Many smaller offshoot loops along this main route provide a shorter distance or an even more interesting journey.
Bear Bait Trail
This 4.7 km trail is full of unique bridges and log jumps (used by mountain bikers), which makes for an extremely interesting walk. If you do hike this trail, please give bikers the right-of-way.
Trail Conditions
Trail improvements/construction are underway (Fall 2025). BC Hydro is resurfacing trails, replacing bridges, culverts, boardwalks, etc, which means that there are currently a few trails or portions of trails that are closed. Please check their website for up-to-date information.
Comox Lake and the Dam Area
At the western edge of the Puntledge River Recreation Area lies Comox Lake, a large freshwater reservoir framed by forested hills and mountain views. The lake is both a popular recreation spot and an important part of the BC Hydro hydroelectric system.
The Comox Lake Dam, located at the lake’s outlet, regulates water levels and controls the flow of the Puntledge River downstream. This regulation supports electricity generation, reduces flood risk, and helps maintain habitat for fish populations—especially salmon. In fact, nearly 98% of young salmon are reported to pass the diversion dam on their journey downstream safely.
The dam area itself offers a pleasant picnic site and viewpoint, with a parking lot, interpretive signs, and pit toilets. From here, visitors can connect to several of the trail systems, including the River Trails and Bevan Trail. The combination of accessible facilities, scenic views, and a direct connection to the region’s hydro history makes this a popular starting point for exploring the recreation area.
It’s essential to note that the dam is an operational facility. River flows may change without warning due to water releases, and visitors should always be aware of posted safety signs and sirens. While swimming, fishing, and canoeing are permitted nearby, there is no overnight camping or fires in this part of the recreation area.
Location
The Puntledge River Recreation Area is at the Comox Lake Dam near Cumberland. Along with the trails mentioned above are a parking lot, a small beach area, pit toilets, information displays and a small picnic area.
The area is open to the public year-round, but please observe posted gate closure times. There is an alternate parking area adjacent to the gate.
For some reason, this area doesn't have an official address:
- Take Exit 117 to Cumberland
- Turn left onto Comox Valley Pkwy S/Cumberland Rd S
- Continue to follow Cumberland Rd S,
- Take the 2nd right onto Bevan Rd
- Turn left onto Comox Logging Road and keep following
- The dam will come up on your right-hand side.
Why You Should Go
The Puntledge River Recreation Area is the perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. Whether the rushing river draws you, the shady forest trails, or the chance to relax by Comox Lake, this area offers something for everyone.
Its well-maintained paths, picnic spots, and interpretive features make it accessible for families and casual explorers, while the longer trails appeal to hikers and mountain bikers looking for a challenge. Add in the rich cultural significance and the vital role the river plays in supporting local salmon runs, and you have a destination that’s both enjoyable and meaningful.
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Cannot access the trails nor Bevin gems…nor will it let me write to you..
Hi Nell, you should have access to this article (where the trails are mentioned). However, the gems are part of the paid membership service. You can send me an email to Kim@vancouverislandview.com if you have any further questions.
Hi – just a comment on a typo: hydroelectric dams are spelled without an ‘n’. I.e ‘Damn’ is the expletive
Oh my gosh! Thank you!