OUTDOOR RECREATION, PARKS & TRAILS

The Cowichan region’s dramatic landscape of forest, oceans and mountains is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with a combination of over 200 Municipal, Regional, Provincial & National Parks and nature preserves. A hike through ancient forests, up local mountains or on peaceful converted rail beds will fill you with awe. Explore by bicycle or horseback and experience some of the best trails in BC.

The seaways of Cowichan boast world renowned dive sites including a unique Boeing 737 underwater reef. Nitinat Lake is reputed to have some of the finest ‘thermals’ for those who like to wind surf!  World class fly-fishing attracts travelers to the heritage status Cowichan River, and local guides can ensure an optimum experience. Kids and adults alike enjoy the hands on displays of the Freshwater Eco Centre and Trout Hatchery.

Discover the coastal scenery in the solitude or with the company of a group on an arranged tour or pleasure cruise. Sail, kayak or cruise from one of the many marinas which cater to all types and sizes of boats. You may see whales, seals or otters and you will definitely see the endangered Great Blue Heron and Bald Eagles which abundantly populate the area.

Do you golf? There are 5 golf courses within an hour’s drive.  Are you a water-skier? Both Shawnigan Lake and Lake Cowichan offer ski lessons and rentals.  Maybe you’ve never done any of these things before but you’ve always wanted to.  Local guides and operators are always willing to teach the novice.

Thinking about a vacation for the family? How about spending a day floating down the Cowichan River on a safe and comfortable inflated kayak or around the Cowichan Bay Estuary in a voyageur canoe? Or for an even more thrilling time, an ultralite plane flightseeing tour will give you a bird’s eye view of our spectacular valley, lakes, rivers and ocean.

There is something different to see at every time of year.  Autumn brings huge flocks of Trumpeter Swans that turn local is recognized as a ‘World Class Important Bird Area” as it provides sanctuary to over 200 species of birds. The fish ladders on the Cowichan River provide great entertainment also as you watch salmon seemingly fly up the falls.  Raccoons, deer and wild rabbits are abundant and if you’re lucky you may see Roosevelt Elk, Black Bear, huge Great Horned Owls and Barred Owls or even, if you’re really lucky, in the right place at the right time and very quiet, a fleeting glimpse of the shy, elusive cougar.

Photo:  Bright Angel Park Bridge: Just minutes from the City, rivers and rain forest provide ample walking trails.

For More on local Parks & Hiking Trails

Tourism Cowichan
http://visit.cowichan.net/activities/hiking.htm 

Municipality of North Cowichan - Parks
http://www.northcowichan.bc.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp?PageID=144

Cowichan Valley Regional District - Parks
http://cvrd.bc.ca/parks/index.html