Outdoor Recreation in Nanaimo

Nanaimo Parks & Trails

Trails in Nanaimo go everywhere, from the oceanside to mountain summits. No matter what part of the city you're in, you'll find a walking trail or park close by, offering hours of quiet outdoor recreation.

More than six kilometres of trails wrap around Westwood Lake, creating a perfect jogging route. Mountain bikers also love this area for its challenging network of downhill and cross country trails on the mountain behind the lake. On certain paths you'll find extensive bike ramps, jumps, and even teeter-totters rising ten feet or more above the forest floor. Uphill from the biking trails lies serious mountain hiking territory, and a variety of paths leading up Mt. Benson's 1000 metre (3,300 feet) summit. From here you'll have a spectacular view of the city, the surrounding islands, and the mainland across the Strait of Georgia.

Cable Bay Trail in Cedar is a light hour-long hike to the water, and a great place to see migrating sea lions, who often sun themselves on the log booms between October and April. Other popular Nanaimo hiking trails include Neck Point Park, Ammonite Falls and Benson Creek Trail.

Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park is an adventurer's dream, with more than 15 km of well-marked interpretive trails that wind through shady forests, past historic sites, and around a lake. Some of the trails on the island are especially designated for cyclists. Biking is also a popular way to sightsee on nearby Gabriola Island.

Nanaimo's 20 km Parkway Trailway, along with the newly extended E&N trail, is another great biking and walking route. Here, paved paths allow pedestrians and bikers to maneuver about the Harbour City without the hassle of vehicular traffic.

For more information about hiking trails, biking trails, or guided tours, be sure to contact one of Nanaimo's adventure operators or bike specialty stores. To learn more about parks in Nanaimo, stop by our Visitor Information Centre, or check out the Parks & Trails section of our Nanaimo Visitor Guide, which features a helpful map and details of all parks and trails in the area.

Boating & Fishing in Nanaimo

Year after year, boaters return in droves to Nanaimo's protected, scenic waters. There's room for every type of vessel here, with moorage available at the Nanaimo Port Authority's Visiting Vessel Pier, Newcastle Island, The Newcastle Marina, Stones Marina, and the Nanaimo Yacht Club. All Nanaimo moorage facilities are just a dinghy ride (or short walk) away from the heart of downtown. As a boater stationed in our harbour you'll be welcomed with Tourism Nanaimo's Come Ashore package, brimming with information on the Port of Nanaimo, local amenities, discounts, and attractions.

Boating and fishing charters in Nanaimo offer another excellent way to experience the gorgeous waters of Vancouver Island. You'll find many great deals with local charter providers in our information package. Check out Tourism Nanaimo's directory for a list of Nanaimo fishing boat charters available in the city, and around Vancouver Island.

Scuba Diving in Nanaimo

Scuba diving in Nanaimo is second to none. Divers in search of an unforgettable experience should visit the HMCS Saskatchewan. This 366-foot navy destroyer was sunk off Nanaimo in June, 1997 to create an artificial diving reef. The Saskatchewan was joined on the ocean floor in October 2001 by the HMCS Cape Breton, a retired Canadian Supply Ship, which is now recognized as the World's Largest Artificial Upright Reef. In February 2005, the Nanaimo Dive Association sank a third vessel, the RivTow Lion, a retired deep sea rescue tug. The Rivtow rests at a manageable depth of about 50 feet in Departure Bay, making it a great dive for beginners seeking some experience before plunging down deeper to the Cape Breton or Saskatchewan. To help you get ready for the dive, there are many professional dive shops in Nanaimo and charter companies located throughout the city.

Nanaimo Beaches & Lakes

Nanaimo's beaches provide a perfect escape on a hot summer's day. The city's long oceanfront makes this an ideal place for families, swimmers, and sun worshippers. Beaches at local ocean parks such as Piper's Lagoon, Departure Bay, Neck Point, and Swy-A-Lana Lagoon, offer a myriad of opportunities for swimming, windsurfing, and snorkeling, complete with incredible sea life just below the surface. "Snorkeling with the Seals" at nearby Snake Island is a great option for those who want more than a glimpse of these friendly mammals. Be sure to ask a local charter company about this unique Nanaimo activity.

There are also several great freshwater swimming spots and pristine lakes in Nanaimo. Close to downtown, there are Westwood Lake and Long Lake, both offering large beaches and summer lifeguard service. Long Lake is also the home of the Nanaimo Canoe and Kayak Club, and a favourite motorboat and water skiing spot. For something a little more adeventurous, Nanaimo River offers some of the most exhilerating swimming opportunities in the city. The best swimming spots can be found about ten minutes south of town off Nanaimo River Road, and are always worth the trip.

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