Get your family hiking in and around the Comox Valley
13 fantastic family-friendly day hikes
A variety of terrain awaits the eager hiker in and around the Comox Valley. Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs or head out with the family for an afternoon in the woods, the opportunities to get lost in nature are abundant.
Nowhere near comprehensive, the following list is an excellent place to start exploring the natural beauty of the Comox Valley on foot.
Nymph Falls Nature Park, Courtenay
This popular nature park consists of 151 acres of second-growth forest on the north side of the Puntledge River. The river, Nymph Falls, and the well-maintained multi-use trail system are main attractions throughout the year.
During the summer, calm and clear glacial water provides cool swimming holes along the river. In October and November, watch spawning salmon swim upstream assisted by natural fish ladders blasted out over 70 years ago.
The main trail system is accessed at the parking lot on Forbidden Plateau Road, but trails within the park connect with a larger system up and down the river. Be on the look-out for a variety of flora and fauna along the way.
Seal Bay Regional Nature Park, Comox
One and a half times the size of Stanley Park (Vancouver), Seal Bay features a large continuous stand of regenerated second-growth forest, wildlife habitats, and rare plant communities.
Bates Road divides the park into two sections. On the east side, there are three well-groomed trails that lead to the water and nearly one kilometre of beach front to wander, picnic, and spot birds and seals—and maybe even a whale. On the west side, there are a number of optional and mandatory leashing trails and a Creekside walk to Melda’s Marsh where you may spot a beaver, a muskrat, or an assortment of feathered friends.
Main parking can be found at the lot on Bates Road. There are also access points at Hardy, Mitchell, and Seabank Roads.
Masters Greenway & Wildlife Corridor, Courtenay
Part of an extensive network of trails along the south shore of the Puntledge River, Ruth Masters Greenway offers forested trails, scenic views, rare plants, and wildlife.
The greenway was donated by Ruth Masters to help preserve the environment. It features threatened and endangered plant species and provides a habitat to a wide range of wildlife. It can be accessed from a number of locations, including Powerhouse and Arden Roads.
Cumberland Community Forest, Cumberland
A mature coastal Douglas fir forest that borders the Village of Cumberland, this magical place is home to two watersheds, an important habitat corridor, heritage sites, wetlands, salmon bearing creeks, and at risk species.
An important area for hikers, mountain bikers, photographers, naturalists, artists, families, schools, and many more, this extensive network of trails is easily accessed from many locations within Cumberland.
Main entry is at the yellow gate at the end of Sutton Road. Parking can be found at the public parking lot at the Cumberland Recreation Centre or along Comox Lake Road.
One Spot Trail, Courtenay
This easy 8km trail is located along the former main line railway grade, and shared by hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Located within a second growth forest, it’s home to a variety of wildlife like black tailed deer, woodpeckers, wrens, and chickadees.
The trail can be accessed from several locations including Condensory, Piercy, Burns, Pindar, Dove Creek, Brazier, Orr, Fair, and Todd Roads.
Oyster River Nature Park
This 12 acre wilderness park includes a small network of recreation trails used to explore forests, sandy beaches, river banks, dykes, flood plains and ponds. The forested trail leads to the mouth of the Oyster River, a spawning river for salmon and a feeding river for trout.
These easy grade trails are a great way to spend an afternoon or bring a picnic lunch and make it a day. Keep in mind that conditions of the single track and double wide trails vary during the seasons since most follow along an old dried up riverbed.
Located halfway between Courtenay and Campbell River, access is off Highway 19A using Glenmore Road and parking on Regent Road.
Paradise Meadows, Strathcona Provincial Park
The main loop is 4.2 km of disabled access boardwalk and gravel trail through sub-alpine meadows with fantastic views of mountains and wildflowers. Access to other trail systems, such as the Battle Ship Lake-Helen MacKenzie loop and Helen MacKenzie to Circlet Lake, are well-marked and make great family day trips. There is also the option of overnight trips at designated camping spots, as well as longer hiking routes and elevated gains.
The trailhead is located at the Raven Lodge parking lot at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. There you will also find an information centre and a toilet.
Ships Point Regional Park, Fanny Bay
Ships Point is a waterfront park with scenic views, plants, animals, and gnarled, windswept trees. This is an excellent location for picnics, exploring the beach, and viewing wildlife, as well as getting younger children out on some easy trails.
From the park, walk north along the shore and enjoy the 5.42 km loop that takes you across the dyke, past the wildlife viewing platform, and through friendly neighbourhoods. There is also the possibility of veering off the trails and exploring bits of George Sawchuk’s Enchanted Forest while you’re in the area.
The regional park can be accessed at Park Road, off Baynes Drive. There is also parking available at the end of Tozer Road.
Northeast Woods, Comox
Several kilometres of multi-use trail is popular for easy hiking, trail running, dog walking, and biking. The well-maintained trail system is mostly flat with a few small hills and suitable for year round usage. Located next to Lazo Marsh, it’s easy to extend your adventure into the conservation area and maps can be found along the way.
The main trail head is accessed at the north end of Torrence Road with plenty of parking.
Wildwood Interpretive Forest, Courtenay
Several trail heads provide convenient access to a 682 acre block of wilderness just 10 minutes from downtown Courtenay. The Wildwood Forest is identified as an important wildlife corridor between Seal Bay Nature Park and Strathcona Provincial Park.
Offering an easy hike through tall trees, ferns, and huckleberry bushes, users can choose between a short outing and a three hour loop. The Bob Webb Trail links Burns and Brazier Roads connecting to the One Spot Trail, adding another 8km to your afternoon adventure.
MacDonald Wood Nature Park, Comox
This nine acre conservation area is ideal for strolling through the woods and along the shoreline. The well-groomed trails lead you through some of the largest cedars in the Comox Valley, and are both wheelchair and stroller friendly.
Access can be found at the corner of Balmoral and Croteau Roads. There is also parking at the end of Croteau Road if you want to scout the beach first.
Mack Laing Nature Park, Comox
In 1973, the naturalist, photographer, and writer Mack Laing donated his waterfront property and the last of his two homes to the Town of Comox. This tranquil area stretches from Balmoral Avenue to the shores of Comox Bay and features meandering trails, a variety of flora and fauna, and a productive salmon stream.
Accessed at the far end of Comox Road (past The Filberg Heritage Lodge & Park), park on the street and enter along the path adjacent to the park sign.
George Sawchuk’s Enchanted Forest (Wacky Woods), Fanny Bay
A series of curious winding trails are spread across four acres of woodland. The trails are dotted with fascinating sculptures created by the late artist George Sawchuk, and open to anyone who cares to wander the forest gallery and contemplate the work.
Directions won’t be found on a tourist map! However, there are two ways to access these enchanting trails:
- Head north on 19A towards the Fanny Bay Community Centre. Turn left on Ships Point Road. Turn left on Little Way. Turn left on Bates Drive. The unmarked trailhead is located at the end of Bates on the right hand side.
- Heading north on 19A, drive past the Fanny Bay Community Hall. Approximately 50 feet north of Jacob Road, there is a yellow gate across a trail on the east side of the highway. The trail leads along the Fanny Bay waterfront and there are several branches off to the right that gain access to Sawchuk’s gallery.
Courtenay Air Park and Comox Marina are great places to take a quick outdoor sanity break, offering salty fresh air and opportunity to view a variety of wildlife throughout the year.
No matter what your time frame is, there are so many wonderful places in the Comox Valley to explore by foot. Lace up your hikers and get yourself out on the trails!