The clubhouse is at the eastern trailhead of the Cowichan River Footpath. 175 Ingram Street   |   Duncan, British Columbia  V9L 1N8   |   Phone: 250.746.2500 or 1.800.665.3955, Administration Hours: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.   Closed Statutory Holidays. For many years the Cowichan River was known to be a top angling destination for salmon and trout destination. Learn how to create your own. The rail trail is known as the Cowichan Valley Trail, which is the Cowichan Valley Regional District's contribution to the Trans Canada Trail along with the Cowichan River Park section makes for a spectacular multi-use trail and an integral part of the TCT route on Southern Vancouver Island. Those who do will be glad to know that earlier this year, waterproof maps became available that feature Mount Tzouhalem trails on one side and Maple Mountain trails on the other. Wonderful loop at the Skutz Falls Parkin lot. The lodge offers a à la carte or Full English/Irish breakfast. For many years the Cowichan River was known to be a top angling destination for salmon and trout destination. The Cowichan Valley Trail is a spectacular multi-use trail that is an integral part of The Great Trail (Trans Canada Trail) route on Southern Vancouver Island. So there is construction on the bridge that gets you from the parking lot over to the river trail. The Cowichan Valley Trail on southern Vancouver Island is an integral part of The Great Trail (formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail). Throughout the park are many natural features including secluded pebbled beaches, deep gorge canyons, high rocky cliffs and white water rapids. The Cowichan Valley section runs from the Capital Regional District boundary at the top of the Malahat, north to Shawnigan Lake and the Kinsol Trestle, west to the Town of Lake Cowichan then north to the Nanaimo Regional District. Sustainability – Our network of low-impact recreational infrastructure supports the region’s sustainable recreational tourism goals.. Community – We build knowledge and capacity in all that we do, including organizing local and international events that showcase the natural beauty of the region.. Cycling: The Cowichan Valley Trail Trail starts in the village of Lake Cowichan at Saywell Park and runs generally parallel to the Cowichan River. Cowichan River Footpath and Cowichan Valley Trail from Glenora Trails Head [CLOSED] is a 8.1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Cowichan Valley, British Columbia, Canada that features a river and is good for all skill levels. North Cowichan PDF Base Maps. Not sure when that is supposed to be complete. Read more. No potable water is provided along this route. As for the video, Dunn said it’s all in a day’s work: he takes care of the river that takes care of him. Horses are also able to use this trail. "I spent a few days in the area and traveled this trail numerous times, I kept seeing new stuff every time and am looking forward to going again this summer." This is an easy to moderate level of … COWICHAN VALLEY TRAIL Shawnigan Lake, across the Kinsol Trestle and the Koksilah River, and along the Cowichan River before reaching Lake Cowichan, one of the largest lakes on the island. The river side is amazing !! Things to do near Cowichan River Provincial Park. Get a Printable version of this map (180k) Note to view this document you need the Adobe Acrobat Reader plugin. Not to be confused with the Cowichan Valley Trail, this 20-kilometre woodland trail hugs the Cowichan River from Skutz Falls to Glenora Trails Head Park. It passes through treed areas, across meadows, or hugs the banks of the swift, winding river. Past the Glenora area, the Vancouver Island Trail (and Great Trail/TCT) heads more or less to the west along the Cowichan River on the 1913 rail grade and over several old wooden trestles such as the Holt Trestle, and eventually crosses over to the north side of the Cowichan River … Access to the Cowichan River via steep trail is possible at the 66 Mile Trestle and the 70.2 Mile Trestle for surface water requiring treatment. Went in the spring but it's even more beautiful in the summer! The upper watershed is a deep rainforest receiving up to 5 metres of rain a year. Our first night was spent in Lake Cowichan and second night in Shawnigan Lake. The Cowichan Valley Trail is a spectacular multi-use trail that is an integral part of The Great Trail (Trans Canada Trail) route on Southern Vancouver Island. Trail was well maintained, easy and well marked. The Cowichan River footpath was developed by the Cowichan Fish and Game Association between 1960 and 1969, with the co-operation of government, industry and private individuals. Children should be accompanied by an adult when in or near the river. The trail is mostly converted rail trail, however some sections early on are on side roads - all sections are truly beautiful and well worth the visit. Backcountry BC is a group of like-minded individuals whose aim is to protect access to the province's backcountry and advocate for new non-mechanized trails by lobbying government recreation activities and for preserving our wilderness areas. Time: 3 ... turn right. The Cowichan River / ˈ k oʊ. The Kinsol, Holt Creek, Marie Canyon, and McGee Creek Trestles can all be found along the 122 kilometre trail and have been restored for hiking, cycling, and equestrian use as part of the rail/trail experience. Mt Tzouhalem is a very trail dense area so plan your route, take a map and don’t be afraid to ask the always friendly locals for directions and even their favorite spot to explore. Highlights definitely included all the trestle bridges, with Kinsol being the most spectacular; the gorgeous sections of the Cowichan River; and the backcountry forests and farm land views of the valley. As well, many of the beautiful homes that dot the shore line provide bins on their private docks for you to throw away your empties. Of course, the Marie Canyon trestle is a wonder and Skutz Falls is also worth viewing. This wilderness loop allows for spectacular viewing of the Cowichan River and forest. A good area to cycle or walk/hike and the people you meet along the way are very friendly. Cowichan River Trail is a 5.2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Cowichan Valley F, British Columbia, Canada that features a river and is good for all skill levels. Trail conditions were very good however the trail is still closed between 66M trestle and Holt Creek trestle due to an earlier washout. It follows the bank on both sides of the river, with various offshoots providing water or beach access. This hike goes from the trailhead on Cowichan Lake Road, down to Spring Pool and along the Cowichan River to 70.2 Mile Trestle where the Trans Canada Trail crosses the River. Cowichan River Trail is a 5.2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Cowichan Valley F, British Columbia, Canada that features a river and is good for all skill levels. Throughout the park are many natural features including secluded pebbled beaches, deep gorge canyons, high rocky cliffs and white water rapids. If the map below shows red lines, these indicate ridable trails which can be downloaded to your GPS (see Upload/Download tab) Directions. Vancouver Island Tourism; Vancouver Island Hotels; Vancouver Island Bed and Breakfast; Vancouver Island Packages; Flights to Vancouver Island; Vancouver Island Restaurants A north leg runs from Duncan roughly parallel to Hwy18 up to Cowichan Lake, then loops back towards the east coast a little south, roughly following the Cowichan River Valley. From there, it hooks east and descends slowly but steadily, passing Paldi, a former logging community named for its Punjabi founder’s home-town in India. Be careful at the beginning of the trail just after crossing the 66 Mile Trestle, especially with kids, as it is narrow and on the edge of the river bank for a good 1-1.5 KM.. design by Sage Web Strategy + Design. With the wet weather this June the trail is muddy in spots to the extent your bike will be fishtailing and splashing thru puddles. Cowichan Valley Trail is a 67.4 mile lightly trafficked point-to-point trail located near Cowichan Valley F, British Columbia, Canada that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. Trail conditions were very good however the trail is still closed between 66M trestle and Holt Creek trestle due to an earlier washout. The Cowichan River Footpath is a 20-km historical trail winding its way alongside the river, connecting all of the river's parks. The Cowichan River Footpath is an historic 20-km trail that winds its way along the scenic Cowichan River from Glenora to Skutz Falls. The banks of the river support an interesting diversity of wildlife. The trail is mostly converted rail trail, however some sections early on are on side roads - all sections are truly beautiful and well worth the visit. Looking for zoning or parcel information for North Cowichan? Some units are air-conditioned and include a balcony and/or a seating area with a flat-screen TV. One of my favourites. This map was created by a user. Forest Discovery Centre; Duncan Totem Poles; Cowichan River Tubing - The Tube Shack; Averill Creek Vineyard; Kenzie's Fishing Adventures; ORKA - Outdoor Recreation and Kayak Adventures; Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre; Cowichan Valley trail; Gordon Bay Provincial Park Cowichan River Provincial Park, Lake Cowichan: Address, Phone Number, Cowichan River Provincial Park Reviews: 4/5 In the early 1900s the status of Cowichan River fishing was posted in London, England fishing clubs. This trail is part of the Trans-Canada trail and so this is just a section of a much longer trail. The Caps traded another Union College commit away last week Editorial: Time to knuckle down on COVID precautions . The Cowichan River Provincial Park is a popular recreation river for many outdoor adventure activities. ɪ tʃ ən / is a moderately sized river in British Columbia, Canada. Lots of parking. Located in Lake Cowichan, 21 miles from Duncan, Cowichan River Lodge provides a garden and free WiFi. The Kinsol Trestle (also known as Koksllah River Trestle) in Cowichan Valley was completed in 1920 and is one of the largest timber bridges in the world. Cycling BC's Trans Canada Trail. The trail offers a number of activity options. Fisherman's Trail (Lake Cowichan) - Retreads Hiking trail in Lake Cowichan, British Columbia (Canada). Cliffs: Cowichan River Provincial Park contains many areas adjacent to the river with steep drop-offs and overhanging bluffs. Please stay on designated trails and respect signs and railings. Move north by small increments. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until September. Cowichan River Trail. You are good as long as you stay on the trail. Beautiful views. The last train crossed here in 1979, so you don’t have to work about staring down a locomotive. The Cowichan River Footpath connects all the river’s parks and makes for an excellent scenic hike along the meanders of the Cowichan River. Description: The footpath covers a 20 km stretch of river and is well signposted. Stocking Creek Waterfall Trail. The rail trail is known as the Cowichan Valley Trail, which is the Cowichan Valley Regional District's contribution to the Trans Canada Trail along with the Cowichan River Park section makes for a spectacular multi-use trail and an integral part of the TCT route on Southern Vancouver Island. Gordon Bay Provincial Park. I used 700x35mm and that was adequate but a little bumpy. A beautiful easy hike east along the Cowichan River, through mossy, wildflower covered flats, and back along the Great Trail. The trail starts just below Skutz Falls at the forest service road bridge. This trail continues north to Cowichan River, following its banks to the town of Lake Cowichan. The mossy maple forest is of particular interest. Find the best Hiking trails in Lake Cowichan, British Columbia (Canada). Watch for side trails which lead to the waters edge or lookouts. Along the Chemainus River the forest is managed not the greatest or most scenic section of this trail, but still a good walk through the woods! Best to park at Skutz Falls. This trail follows the twists and turns of the river. Guide and map Distance: 122 Km, but there are several access points for shorter rides. Download its GPS track and follow the itinerary on a map. Fishers still come from all over the world to “drift” the river in river drift boats with guides. Interested in hiking in the North Cowichan municipal forest reserve? You might be happy to know there are also a few designated spots along the journey for you to use the loo. Surface: Gravel and hard dirt, some sand and rocks, but OK for a hybrid bike. Beautiful trail - very secluded, dense forest, Cowichan Valley Regional, British Columbia. The Malahat Connector links the existing trail in Shawnigan Lake south to the CRD in the Goldstream Heights area and is a non-motorized, multi-use trail that winds through second growth forests with views over Shawnigan Lake and across the Saanich Peninsula/Gulf Islands and the Salish Sea. Town: Lake Cowichan, BC. Tucked off Chemainus Rd you drive down into the Stocking Creek River parking area where your short hike suitable for all ages awaits you. Cowichan River Provincial Park, Lake Cowichan: See 23 reviews, articles, and 16 photos of Cowichan River Provincial Park, ranked No.7 on Tripadvisor among 12 attractions in Lake Cowichan. River Course: The Cowichan River has fluctuating water levels and swift currents. Its drainage basin is 795 square kilometres (307 sq mi) in size. Download its GPS track and follow the itinerary on a map. Municipality of North Cowichan Phone: 250-746-3100 Email: parksrec@northcowichan.bc.ca www.northcowichan.ca ... and there is a 2.5 kilometres hiking trail around the lake. Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about. Access to the trail is from two trailheads: The Cowichan Fish and Game Association Range and clubhouse off Vaux Road (eastern end) where the path follows the ridges of the river occasionally veering onto old logging roads of the Canadian National Railway right-of-way. Trail description: The Cowichan Valley Rail Trail forms a section of the Trans Canada Trail, following the Cowichan River from Shawinigan Lake 55 km west to the town of Lake Cowichan then curves back east 30 km to Duncan.The Cowichan Valley Rail Trail received funding for upgrading under the Spirit of 2010 Trail and is complete. Hike and Ride within your limits. Suitable for children. Once those fishermen and women see the beauty that is the Cowichan Valley and the sweet fishing available on the Cowichan River, they may just want to visit and book his services. If you do not already have this plugin, you can get it here. Why is the Kinsol Trestle important? Please click here for more information on the Kinsol Trestle. Many people still find comfort in carrying a foldable trail map. Cowichan River - Skutz Falls to 66 Mile Trestle Loop Total Distance: 7 km. River access is most often steep and rugged, however. Per the map the distance from the car park to the trestle is shorter on the north compared to the south. This hidden little gem is located in the Oceanside community of Saltair between the towns of Chemainus and Ladysmith. The park offers hiking, kayaking, tubing, and mountain biking. Bald Mountain Upper Plateau (Lake Cowichan) - Retreads Hiking trail in Mesachie Lake, British Columbia (Canada). Well maintained trails and lots of history to explore at the Kinsol Trestle and Cowichan Valley area. ... After the trestle to Lake Cowichan the trail becomes a lot rockier and mountain bikes might be better or at least wider tires. One of the bridges had a closed sign but with no other options we went through okay. The Great Trail is a cross-Canada system of greenways, waterways, and roadways that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic oceans. - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about. Cowichan Valley trail, Lake Cowichan: Address, Cowichan Valley trail Reviews: 4.5/5. "I was on a loaded touring bike and loved going from Langford to Lake Cowichan for the day's ride." Restrooms, Parking areas, Trail map signs, Campsites, Picnic areas, Historic railway trestles. Might try this one again in the spring. Filmed on north Vancouver Island – around Campbell River, Woss and Sayward ... Cowichan Capitals say goodbye to Ferguson and Richter. It is not often adjacent to the river, though, plus it runs through immature forest and has few viewpoints. “I have cleaned up truck loads of garbage,” he said. It originates in Cowichan Lake, flowing east towards its end at Cowichan Bay. Proposed Across Canada Trail - Lake Cowichan to Port Renfrew - Across Canada Trails - Proposed Route Distance 58 km Ascent 514 m The Kinsol Trestle (also known as Koksllah River Trestle) in Cowichan Valley was completed in 1920 and is one of the largest timber bridges in the world. You will hike down the trail and shortly thereafter cross the bridge over Stocking Creek. The southern side of the river is known as the Grace Rd area. The Cowichan River is a moderately sized river in British Columbia, Canada. There are at least two floating garbage and recycling bins along the way. Cowichan River tubing is a popular sport, and it has been perfected. Please use screen capture to print the map. 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