St.Anne's Anglican Church - St. Anne's is one of the oldest churches on Vancouver Island. It was built in 1894 by 45 farmers who used oxen to haul the logs. To find the church, turn left off the Island Highway onto Pym Road, right onto Humphrey Road and right onto Church Road.
Craig Heritage Park - The park is located about 3 km south of Parksville on Hwy 19A, next to the Parksville Visitor Centre. On location are some local heritage buildings from the times of the first people to settle in this area. The artifacts that decorate these buildings depict the lives of these early pioneers. Open daily 10-4. Admission: Adults $2.00, Family $4.00, Seniors and Students $1.00.
Parksville Community Park - Located in scenic Parksville Bay and offers a variety of activities. Tennis courts, ballparks, a lacrosse box, skateboard park, covered picnic area, large field for kite flying, arena and Community Hall. The beach itself offers a beautiful view as well as swimming and sand castle building. The annual International Sandcastle Competition was held here and returns this year. The Parksville's Skateboard Park is 84 feet wide by 168 feet long. The famous Lion's Venture Land playground is a must for younger members of the family. This is truly one of the most original play areas for children. Kids are kept entertained for hours, while parents can watch the fun. Bring a snack or snack at the take out. For small children, the playground at Parksville beach is sheer heaven. There are many swings, slides, and others, not to mention the Water Park, which is hugely popular with the kids.
North Island Wildlife Recovery Association - The NIWRA is a haven for a wide variety of injured, ill and orphaned wildlife ranging from songbirds to eagles, raccoons to deer. Sick and injured wildlife receive professional veterinary medical care while they are rehabilitated for their eventual release back into the wild. Orphaned wildlife must be taught the survival skills of how to obtain food and to fear predators before they can be released. Besides working directly with wildlife, the NIWRA actively promotes public education and offers a popular Wildlife Adoption Program. It offers a comprehensive education program, including guide and self-guided tours. The public viewing area houses non-releasable wildlife such as eagles, owls, and raccoons. Tours of the centre can be arranged by phoning 248 8534. Located approximately 10 minutes from Parksville on Leffler Road in Errington.
Tiger Lily Petting Farm - In the heart of Errington, where kids can ride ponies and get up close and personal with some friendly farm animals. They can cuddle baby chicks, pet fuzzy lambs, ducks, cows, a pig and others. The owners hope children develop a respect and understanding for animals and the products they produce. Visitors are encouraged to help milk the goats and then bottle fee the baby goats. From April to October the farm operates daily from 10 am to 4 pm, weekends only from Easter to Thanksgiving. Located at 1692 Errington Rd.
Paradise Adventure Mini Golf - World famous adventure mini golf. Two world class 18-hole courses lie right in the centre of Parksville, Look for the castle, the old woman's shoe and the pirate ship. The two courses, 'Turf n Surf' and 'Treasure Island' are based on a fantasy theme and connected by mini drawbridges the cross the creeks and ponds. Countless obstacles and scale buildings dot the courses and provide a fun atmosphere for the whole family.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park - A short 1/2 km south of Parksville, a wide sandy beach makes this park a family favourite. On a low tide, the ocean recedes almost a kilometre providing an ideal place for youngsters of all ages to play. Amenities include wheel chair access, fishing, swimming, hiking, and canoeing. When the tide rolls in over the hot sand, the warmed water is unbeatable for swimming and salt-water fun. You can simply relax or venture down to the beach, walk cool trails, or let the children do their thing. This park is famous for its safe sandy swimming beach, where high tide offers the warmest ocean swimming in British Columbia. Average water temperature in the summer is 21 degrees Celsius. Bird lovers will be interested to note that more than 150 different species of birds have been recorded in the park. Information at 248 -3111. Travel south on Hwy. 19A for 1/2 km and turn left at the gas station.
Englishman River Estuary - On the south side of the Englishman River. After the orange Englishman River Bridge on Hwy 19A, turn left onto Plummer Rd. You can park by the bridge and walk downstream along the riverbank. On the north side of the river, go to the end of Shelly Road. The plant life and wild life in the estuary are worth a visit. It makes for a pleasant afternoon stroll.
Echo Village Theatre - For evening entertainment, you can't beat the ECHO players' theatrical offerings. The players have mounted a highly successful range of productions over the past 25 years, in a repertoire that ranges from full-scale musicals, to situation comedies, to engaging dramas. The theatre is located at 110 West Second Avenue in Qualicum Beach. Telephone: 752-3522.
Rhododendron Lake - Every spring, in late May or early June, the shores of Rhododendron Lake are lined with a stunning profusion of pink rhododendrons. Growing wild, these beautiful rhododendrons are believed by botanists to belong to a strain that survived the last Ice Age. Access to the lake is by private logging road. Check signs posted at the entrance of Northwest Bay Logging Division, approximately 7.2 km south of Parksville.
Qualicum Beach - Community Park - Contains a children's playground, baseball diamonds, soccer pitches, a skateboard park, the Ravensong Aquatic centre and the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, a facility with a large auditorium and several smaller meeting rooms. Nestled in the forest of the Community Park, the scenery is very nice. Well-groomed trails wind through the forest surrounding the Community Park. The Ravensong Aquatic Centre has become a popular destination for community members looking for a wide range of aquatics activities in the District 69 area. This facility offers three separate pool tanks including a 25-metre short course competitive pool, a shallow water leisure pool, and a whirlpool. Programs at the pool include a number of adult exercise and therapeutic sessions, a long list of Red Cross and Royal Lifesaving educational programs, and many public swimming and special event activities. For more information call 752- 5014.
Qualicum Beach - The Old School House - Victorian charm, modern creativity, this 80 year old school house turned art centre in the heart of Qualicum Beach showcases, year round, the visual arts of painting, sculpture, carving and pottery, as well as music. Hands on workshops, studio tours of artists in residence, and a well-stocked gift shop are all part of the TOSH experience. 122 Fern Road West. Telephone 752 -8133.
Qualicum Beach - The Power House Museum - The Museum of Power has a growing collection of artifacts. You can test your own power on the Power Cycle and turn on the lights! Other collections highlight family histories, woodworking and blacksmithing tools, rooms depicting early Qualicum pioneer home life and storyboards recording early settlement history. Learn about early Georgia Strait shipwrecks and examine antique golf paraphernalia. Open mid June to early October, adjacent to the Qualicum Beach train station at 587 Beach Road. A new exhibit in the adjacent Old Train Station's restored Freight Shed defines the history of the Esquimalt & Nanaimo Railway on Vancouver Island. Exhibits from various towns attest to the impact on Island communities from Victoria to Courtenay. Telephone 752- 6441 or 752 -6836.
Qualicum Beach - The Vancouver Island Palaeontology Museum - The Museum displays one of the most complete collections of Vancouver Island fossils and invites you to take an educational and enjoyable journey into our prehistoric past. Included in Graham Beard's acclaimed collection are many spectacular fossil forms that lived in this area during the Mesozoic times. Although the collection is primarily concerned with the fossils of the Island, there are also some fantastic fossils from other parts of British Columbia and the world. Recently acquired is an excellent example of a Coelacanth (a fish that scientists thought was extinct for 130 million years!). This and other interesting vertebrate fossils are also on display. Open mid June to early October in the Power House Museum complex, adjacent to the Qualicum Beach train station at 587 Beach Road. Telephone 752 -9810.
Qualicum Beach - Hamilton Marsh - This natural habitat for such marsh birds as red winged blackbirds, jays and swallows, is particularly active in spring and fall with migrations of ducks and geese. Woodland trails from the small parking lot lead you to and around the marsh, with a viewing platform for closer observation of marsh inhabitants. Hamilton Marsh is located approximately 10 minutes drive west of Qualicum Beach, on South Hilliers Road, just off the Alberni Highway 4.
Coombs Village - The Coombs Old Country Market, open mid March through September, is well known for the family of goats that nimbly graze on its grass roof. Adjacent to it, visitors enjoy the wide range of small gift and craft shops, many of which are open year round. The village is dotted with several heritage buildings and now includes a mini golf and small amusement park. July is the time for 'Old West' activities: a fiddle jamboree, bluegrass festival and rodeo. Located approximately 10 minutes west of Parksville on Hwy. 4A.
Coombs - Butterfly World - Stroll among hundreds of free flying exotic butterflies and visit the Bird Aviary and Water Gardens. Butterflies from five continents compete with orchids, passionflowers and jasmine for your senses, armed with fragrant aromas and flashes of colour. In the two large outdoor ponds you can witness the Japanese Koi fish at feeding times as they boil to the surface. This tropical paradise is conveniently located in the community of Coombs on Hwy. 4A, only minutes from Parksville. Open April through October 10-5 daily. Telephone 248 7026. Admission: Adults $6.50, Seniors $5.50, Child (3-12) $3.50, Students (13+) $4.50.
Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery - This Federal Fisheries project for the enhancement of salmon stocks has provided a model for similar developments. In addition to the research benefits, it also provides an important source of fish for the native food fish program and countless hours of enjoyment for the recreational fisher. Special features are a topographical model of the project, an underwater viewing area to watch the fish eye-to-eye and nature trails for exploration of the Big Qualicum River and spawning channel. Open daily. Although it is an interesting place to visit any time of the year, it is especially interesting during spawning season. Here you still see the salmon fighting to get up the river to lay their eggs. If you time it right, you may see the staff 'milk' the eggs from the salmon. The eggs are then hatched under controlled conditions. The hatchery is located 25.6 km north of Parksville on Hwy 19A. Telephone 757 -8412.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park - A short drive from Parksville, just south of the rural community of Errington, a picturesque back road ends at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. This quiet destination, amid a forest of Douglas fir, is noted for the beauty of its falls, reached by easy walking trails. Amenities include picnic areas, fishing, swimming, and hiking trails. According to legend, the river acquired its name more than 100 years ago, when Indians discovered the skeleton of a white man along the riverbanks. The Englishman River Falls, noted for their beauty, are reached by easy walking trails. The lower falls end in a deep crystal pool, which is an ideal freshwater summer swimming hole and a great place to view spawning salmon during the autumn months of September and October. The park is located about 5 km west of Parksville on Hwy. 4A, and left at Errington Road and another 8 km.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park - Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park features some of Vancouver Island's most beautiful waterfalls. They can be found west of Parksville, close to the inviting waters of Cameron Lake and the splendour of Cathedral Grove. Picnic areas, wheel chair access, swimming, shaded riverside hiking trails, picturesque footbridges, and a playground make Little Qualicum a favourite outdoor destination from Parksville. On hot summer days Cameron Lake and Little Qualicum River offer a number of cool, clear pools that are great for a refreshing dip. Travel 19.2 km west of Parksville on Hwy. 4A, left onto Hwy. 4 and watch for the sign on the right.
Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park - The best caves, and one of the easiest places to venture underground in Canada are located in this Vancouver Island park north of Qualicum Beach. From educational family oriented tours to deep dark adventure, these caves offer something for everyone. There are three small caves to explore on your own (you must bring at least two sources of light) and one cave that requires a guide. Visitors planning to explore the cave either on their own or as part of a tour need to be prepared. Warm clothing and good footwear are a must. Bring a flashlight or rent a helmet and headlamp during hours of operation. Tours are conducted on weekends in June and September and daily during July and August. First come first served basis tours begin from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and tours may also be arranged in advance by calling 248-7829. Other programs offer instruction in climbing and rappelling in a wild cave environment. Canoe and water safety instruction and mountain biking round out the adventure experience. Self-guided cave tours possible year round, weather permitting. Travel 25.6 km north of Parksville on Hwy. 19 and turn left on Horne Lake Road. It's 11.2 km to the lake and another 8 km to the caves.
MacMillan Provincial Park(Cathedral Grove) - This wondrous display of 800-year-old trees has been undergoing the restoration of its trails since a major windstorm damaged several sections of the park. Fishing, hiking trails, and wheel chair access are available at Cathedral Grove. This grove of giant trees was given to the Province in 1944 by H.R.MacMillan. Some of these giants and magnificent Douglas fir, western hemlock and western red cedar tower 200 feet above the visitor's head, their impressive trunks reminding one of the columns of cathedrals. Even though a forest fire swept up this valley 300 years ago, some of these giants are nearly 800-years-old. The 'new' trees, which have since grown and reached giant size, make up the majority of the virgin forest as seen today. It is definitely awe inspiring and refreshing to stroll amongst these towering Douglas fir. There are trails on both sides of the highway with ample parking. The south side trail takes you along the Cameron River where most of the large Douglas fir are located, while the north side trail wanders among ancient western red cedars to the western end of Cameron Lake. The grove is located 32 km west of Parksville on Hwy.4A and onto Hwy. 4.
Cameron Lake - Cameron Lake is fed from glaciers from Mt. Arrowsmith and is a deep-water lake filled with trout. Cameron Lake is very picturesque on calm days when reflections are mirrored in the water. The lake is situated between Little Qualicum Falls and Cathedral Grove on Hwy. 4, 25 km west of Parksville on Hwy. 4A and onto Hwy. 4.
Mount Arrowsmith - This mountain offers hiking in the summer and a breathtaking view of Vancouver Island. The major hiking trail up the mountain, Mount Arrowsmith Trail, starts off at the Cameron Lake picnic site and winds its way up to the 6,000 foot summit. (Watch carefully for the sign, it's not very large). The trail takes between 3 to 9 hours and is easy hiking even for the novice hiker. Do not set off without a trail map! It is said that Parksville can attribute its mild climate to Mount Arrowsmith, as the weather pattern is broken up by this tall giant. Mount Arrowsmith is the mountain you see directly west of Parksville. For directions see Cameron Lake above.
Kids Guide
Parksville is Vancouver Island's favourite family vacation spot. There are plenty of fun activities for children to enjoy from our world famous beaches and Provincial Parks to mini golf and toyshops. You'll find many interesting activities to keep the family entertained while visiting Parksville. The excitement of Parksville's beaches is always popular with kids. The shallow waters off our sandy beaches are the safest around with no hazardous currents to worry about. When the tide is out, over 1.5 km of beach stretches out into the Strait of Georgia. Perfect for sandcastle building, beach combing, and family walks. Summer's hot sun heats the sand so as the tide rises the water is the warmest you'll find in coastal British Columbia. Although our beaches are known to be safe, ensure that children are supervised while playing in the water.
Parksville Beach will please every member of the family. Kids can spend hours exploring the various activities at the huge Lions Venture Playground and watermark, so be sure to pack a picnic lunch or grab a snack from the on site concession stand.
Teens flock to the newly constructed skate park that offers a challenge for skate boarders, BMX riders, and in line skaters. A short walk from the beach is the Paradise Adventure Mini Golf that consists of two 18-hole courses, an arcade, and a games room.
Visit Coombs and you'll find an amusement park, fun shops, a market, restaurants, and an emporium with some of the best ice cream on Vancouver Island. Keep an eye out for the famous goats on the roof! Just outside Coombs is Butterfly World offering tropical gardens, a turtle pond, and a Japanese water garden filled with cool Koi (giant goldfish). Wear your brightest red, yellow, purple, or orange clothing to attract the most butterflies. Parksville is also home to a number of family focused events and festivals that occur throughout the year. Don't forget Tiger Lily Petting Farm (see description on Page 1).
Arts & Culture
In Parksville/Qualicum Beach arts and crafts are abound. The area is home to painters, weavers, sculptors, carvers, glass blowers, and other artisans who welcome visitors to their studios.
The Old School House Gallery and Art Centre, in the heart of Qualicum Beach, offers changing exhibits and access to its resident artists studios. The Station Gallery at the Parksville Train Station features the work of the Arrowsmith Potters Guild. The People's Gallery in downtown Parksville is home to exhibits presented by the Oceanside Community Arts Council.
For live theatre fans, the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach offers shows in both summer and winter. Many of these productions are put on by the resident ECHO Players who specialize in musicals and lighter fare. The Power House and Palaeontology Museums adjacent to the Qualicum Beach Train Station, display artifacts and glimpses into our prehistoric past. In the Train Station, visit the E&N Rail Exhibit for descriptive history and photos that tell the story of early railroading from 1884. The museums and rail exhibits are open from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from mid June to early October, except Fridays.
Also, be sure to plan a visit to the Craig Heritage Park in Parksville where cottages built by the Craig family complement a collection of heritage buildings, antique tools, machines, vehicles, and other artifacts.
Recreation
Parksville/Qualicum Beach offers many indoor recreation opportunities to enjoy. Take a dip at the Ravensong Aquatic Centre in Qualicum Beach, open daily for 'Everyone Welcome' and 'Family' Swims. Lace up your skates and visit the Parksville Arena where ice is available year round. Our regional recreation department also offers a wide variety programs throughout the year. For more information drop in at the Recreation Department office located in the Parksville Arena.
If you don't want to miss your workouts while visiting Parksville we've got you covered. Many of our resorts have a gym and spa on site and there are a number of local fitness clubs that offer reasonable drop in rates. Indoor racquetball courts are also available if you prefer to play racquetball or squash.
Don't forget about our curling rinks, bowling alleys, pool halls, arcades, and covered driving ranges. No matter what you play, you can keep your game in check when you visit Parksville/Qualicum Beach.
Golf Courses
No fewer than five championship golf courses offer your round challenge during warm, sunny summers and usually mild winters. In addition, the Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course is a scenic and historic nine hole course:
Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club - (Par 61, 3724 Yards, rating 59.0, slope 90, $26) is Qualicum Beach's newest golf course, a fifteen minute drive north of town off Scenic Highway 19A, the Oceanside Route. Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Arrowsmith as you play this well-groomed executive course featuring large greens and a continuous cart path. Phone: 752- 9727. 2250 Fowler Rd., Qualicum Beach
Eaglecrest Golf Club - (Par 71, 6313 Yards, rating 70.6, slope 122, Spring $33, Summer $36, Fall $33, Winter $25) is known for its exceptional greens and ocean and mountain views. Many players will choose fairway woods over their drivers as this beautiful course calls for accuracy off the tees and a delicate touch on undulating, elevated greens. Phone: 752 -6311. 2035 Island Hwy. West, Qualicum Beach.
Fairwinds Golf and Country Club - (Par 71, 6200 Yards, rating 68.7, slope 123, $60) is a challenging course featuring sculptured fairways, ponds, a natural lake and a flowing creek. Water is in play on eleven holes. This beautiful and challenging golf course has tall trees surrounding its tight, rolling fairways. Phone: 468-7666. 3730 Fairwinds Dr., Nanoose Bay.
Glengarry Golf Links - (Par 67, 5021 Yards, rating 63.2, slope 99, $33-$36, Carts $22) is located in Qualicum Beach, a short distance from the town centre, in a peaceful valley dominated by Mt. Arrowsmith. The front nine has a Scottish links layout, followed by a back nine set in natural woodlands. Easy to walk. Phone: 752 -8786. 1025 Qualicum Rd., Qualicum Beach.
Morningstar Golf Course - (Par 72, 7018 Yards, rating 71.2, slope 139, $56, Twilight $35, 9-hole $30, Carts $32) is home of the Morningstar Classic, a stop on CPGA tour. This course boasts spectacular scenery and championship calibre golf. Phone: (800) 567 -1320. 525 Lowrys Rd., Parksville.
Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course - (Par 35, 2651 Yards, rating 67.7, slope 111, $18, 9-hole $9) offers nine holes with ocean views to the north and east, and snow capped mountains to the west. The area's oldest golf course, founded in 1916. Phone: 752- 6312. 115 Crescent Rd. West, Qualicum Beach.
Biking
Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park is one of the few designated mountain bike parks in the British Columbia. Trails are built and maintained by the Arrowsmith Mountainbike Club, and vary from intermediate to advanced riding. To access the park look for Chattell Road, located behind the weigh scales south of Parksville. Or ride from Rathtrevor Provincial Park along the Top Bridge Trail.
Hammerfest Race Course is a challenging network of trails that is home to the annual Hammerfest Race (May). Trails are located on the mountain side behind Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. The Park has sign markers off Hwy. 4A. Start riding on the logging roads just outside the park entrance and climb to the power lines and enjoy the intermediate to advanced trails on the way down.
For more information visit one of our local bike shops. Bike rentals are also available. Check out our events page for more information on cycling events in Parksville.
Hiking
Some of Vancouver Island's best hiking trails can be found in Parksville/Qualicum Beach. Here is some information to get you started.
Mt. Arrowsmith Regional Park is well known for its alpine meadows, wild flowers, panoramic view of the Georgia Strait, and its challenging but beautiful trails. Road access to the park is 30 km west of Qualicum Beach, past Cameron Lake, and the majestic trees of Cathedral Grove. There are a number of summer hiking trails in the park, and exit points from the park to Mt. Cokely (elev. 1580m) and Mt. Arrowsmith (elev. 1819m). Always check locally before embarking on any hikes within the park. In the winter the park offers downhill and cross-country skiing.
The Big Qualicum River Fish Hatchery is not only scenic but educational too! The interpretive centre sticks you at eye level with the fish, and teaches you the stages of the life span of the Pacific Salmon, right from the beginning to the end of their life cycle. Most of the hatchery is wheelchair accessible. A beautiful circle trail follows the Big Qualicum River upstream, across a log bridge and back through the woods alongside the river. Access these trails via Horne Lake Rd., approximately 18 km. north of Qualicum Beach on your left hand side.
Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a number of trails that can be accessed from the parking lot. Across the short suspension bridge is the beginning of the trail to the public caves that you can stop and explore for free, or arrange for a tour of the protected caves. Remember your sturdy shoes, warm clothes and a flashlight. A map of the trail system is available at the park.
Qualicum Beach has a series of never ending, connecting trails which wind their way through the dense forest from the Civic Centre parking lot. These paths, great for bird watching, are easy strolling on a chip trail. A paved footpath follows along the edge of Qualicum Beach. It is interrupted by a few homes and businesses that you can walk around either on the beach or the road. In the summer there are wooden steps down to the beach at regular intervals. Along the route there is a public park area with picnic tables, public washrooms and change rooms, plenty of parking and a seasonal concession stand.
Cathedral Grove is only 30 minutes west of Parksville. This beautiful first growth forest is located along both sides of Hwy. 4, on your way to Port Alberni. This forest of 800-year-old Douglas Fir trees has been undergoing restorations since a windstorm took its toll on the park. Count the annual rings inside the trunk of the trees to see just how old these beauties are! Bring a picnic lunch and stop at Cameron Lake on your way to Cathedral Grove. The lake has many day use areas, with picnic tables for your convenience.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park is famous for its expansive sandy beaches and low, low tide line. To get to this park, head south on Hwy. 19A, and follow the signs just past the city of Parksville. Simply walk on the beach or follow a series of trails through old growth strands of trees and the old Rath farm site.
The Grandon Creek Trail, in Qualicum Beach, is a chip trail that begins across the street from the Old Train Station, just behind the Powerhouse Museum. The path follows the railroad tracks, across Arbutus Rd. to run alongside Hoylake Rd. West. Take a small flight of steps, following down through the forest and then alongside Grandon Creek. This trail joins the beach sidewalk at the bottom of Crescent Rd. West. Complete the circle by walking left along either the highway or on the beach to join the paved footpath mentioned under the Qualicum Beach section.
To get to the Rosewall Creek Trail, follow Hwy. 19A north, past Deep Bay. Stay on 19A past the Cook Creek access to Hwy. 19 and watch for signs directing you to Rosewall Creek Provincial Park, a right hand turn on Berray Rd. The trail leads you across the creek, where nature is at its best. After crossing underneath the power lines, the trail will narrow a bit. If you lose the trail, keep following the river, and you'll find it again! There is a beautiful set of waterfalls on the upper part of the trail.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is situated west of Qualicum Beach, just before Cameron Lake and Cathedral Grove on Hwy. 4. The park offers several kilometres of shaded well maintained trails that link to the crystal clear, ideal swimming waters of the Little Qualicum River. At the park runs alongside a series of waterfalls through the old growth forest.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is located at the end of Errington Rd. off of Hwy. 4A. This quiet destination, amid a forest of giant Douglas Firs, is an ideal location from which to explore the incredible diversity of this pristine park. Two waterfalls can be reached by following well maintained walking trails through the woods. The bridge across the upper falls is a short walk from the parking lot. The trail continues to the lower falls, and a deep, crystal clear, freshwater swimming hole, perfect to cool you off on a hot summer day. With the growing popularity of walking tours, the District 69 Trails Society has undertaken a project to connect the seven provincial parks and a number of regional parks in Parksville/Qualicum Beach with a trail system that will allow for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and where possible, even in line skating. This is a long-term project, but they opened the first stage from Rathtrevor Provincial Park to Top Bridge Park in June of 1999.
Horseback Riding
Parksville offers a number of opportunities to explore Vancouver Island's backcountry on horseback. Outfitters throughout Parksville/Qualicum Beach offer instruction as well as short trail rides and overnight excursions. From alpine meadows to wooded trails, horseback riding will give you an unique perspective of this beautiful region.
Nature Related
Just outside Coombs, Butterfly World features a walk among hundreds of colourful, exotic, free flying butterflies. In addition, visitors enjoy a tropical atrium, water gardens, and a bird aviary. Open seven days a week from March to October. Be sure to wear your brightest red, yellow, purple or orange clothing.
In the same general area is the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, a rehabilitation refuge for sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife. A short drive north along either Hwy. 19 or 19A will take you to the turn off for the Horne Lake Caves. Watch for a blue Provincial Park sign. You can do self-guided tours through two of the caves or arrange for a more extensive guided tour. Regardless of the weather, you should be prepared to get a little wet when exploring this underground phenomenon.
On the road to the Horne Lake Caves is the Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery where in the fall you can see the salmon spawning. Throughout the year you can learn about the amazing life cycle of the salmon and have an eye-to-eye encounter in the underwater viewing area.
Birding in Parksville/Qualicum Beach
Over 250 species of birds have been reported in Parksville/Qualicum Beach area. Come see what you can find.
Spring: By mid to the end of March, Violet green Swallows and Rufous Hummingbirds have returned while tens of thousands of water birds can be found attracted to the spectacular Pacific herring spawn along miles of shoreline. Huge mixed flocks of Western, Red necked and Horned Grebes, Black, Surf, and White winged Scoters, Harlequin Ducks, Common, Pacific, and Red throated Loons and thousands of gulls as well as Harbour seals and Northern and California Sea Lions are not uncommon. Hundreds of Bald eagles are attracted to the spawn. Flocks of over 3,000 Oldsquaw ducks can often be seen close to shore. By late March, Black Brant can be found in the thousands along miles of coastal beaches.
Summer: Passerines are at their peak in early summer, and their songs ring from a wide variety of local habitats. Hammond's and Pacific slope Flycatchers, Black throated Gray, Townsend's and MacGillivray's warblers, Western Tanagers and Black headed Grosbeaks are common. The black Merlin and Band tailed Pigeon breed throughout the area. In the Strait of Georgia, Alcids such as Pigeon Guillemots and Marbled Murrelets can be found, while on rocky islets, Black Oystercatchers are nesting. Look for scores of Western and Least sandpipers on the estuaries by late July.
Fall: In early September hundreds of Common Nighthawks can be found over open fields feeding on swarms of mating field ants. Savannah Sparrows migrate through in huge numbers. A major waterfowl migration peaks around mid November.
Winter: Throughout December and January, hundreds of Bald Eagles can be found feeding on spent salmon that have spawned in our rivers. Thousands of water birds winter in the area including Yellow billed Loons and hundreds of Trumpeter Swans. Black Turnstones are common along our rocky beaches.
Attention: Birders from Eastern North America
If you're adding to your life list and haven't spent time on the west coast, come visit us. We guarantee you many lifers. And birders from the USA you will get an added bonus of 45 cents on your dollar when you come to Canada. It makes for a wonderful holiday get a way. Here are a few of our western specialties to get you dreaming.
Some Good Viewing Sites
Craig Bay, Rathtrevor Provincial Park, Englishman River Estuary, French Creek and Columbia Beach, Morningstar Golf Course, Hamilton Marsh, Qualicum Beach Look Off, Little Qualicum Spawning Channels, Little Qualicum River Estuary, Big Qualicum River Valley.
Marine Activities
Home of the best beaches on Vancouver Island, Parksville/Qualicum Beach offers a wide variety of marine activities. Beach combing, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing are among the most popular. Along the shore wander miles of clean, sandy beaches. Explore tidal pools where crabs hide in eelgrass and colourful starfish cling to rocks. Go for a summer swim in some of the warmest tidal waters in British Columbia. Beach combing is superb, especially during the fall and winter when far away storms churn up marine treasures to deposit on our shores.
Wildlife Viewing - The Strait of Georgia is a natural thoroughfare for Orcas (killer whales). During the March herring season, colonies of sea lions, seals and flocks of birds gather to feast on the schools of fish. You can enjoy our marine life from shore or on one of the many boats available for charter at local marinas.
Fishing - Fishing remains one of Parksville's favourite marine activities. According to and old Salish legend, the kwalicum means, 'Where the dog salmon run'. They aren't the only ones. Catch chinook from March to September, sockeye and pinks in August, and chum in October and November. Red snapper, rockfish, sole, halibut, and lingcod are also found off the shores of Parksville and our lakes are well-stocked with trout and small mouth bass. Scenic charters are also available. A day on the sparkling sea, cruising among the mystical Gulf Islands, will fill up rolls of film and foster unforgettable memories.
Windsurfing - In summer, relatively low winds provide perfect conditions for beginners, while in winter, winds of up to 40 knots offer a worthy challenge for intermediate to advanced windsurfers. Local outfitters will provide you with everything you will need, including lessons.
Scuba Diving - The sheltered waters off the east coast of Vancouver Island provide an extraordinary array of undersea life. Sea urchins, wolf eels, sponges, tiger rockfish, and giant Pacific octopus are all local residents of the deep. According to the late Jacques Cousteau, Parksville borders the second best cold water diving destination in the world (after the Red Sea). While Parksville/Qualicum Beach is a year round diving destination, between November and April the waters reach their peak of clarity and visibility ranges from 24 to 30 metres (80 100 feet).
Sea Kayaking - Slip into a personal pleasure craft and paddle your way into the stunning Strait of Georgia. These protected waters are beckoning a growing number of kayakers looking to get in closer touch with the natural environment. With the help of local outfitters, take a guided excursion to Lasqueti or Jedediah Islands, or launch out on your own for a two-day tour through Hornby and Denman Islands. Our local outfitters can also provide lessons for those just starting out.
Churches
Arbutus Grove Reformed Church
1000 Allsbrook, Parksville 248-6474 - Worship: 10:00
Catholic Church of the Ascension
887 Wembley Rd., Parksville 248-3747 - Worship: 8:30 & 10:30
Christian Fellowship Centre
825 Village Way, Qualicum Beach 752-5513 - Worship: 10:30
Grace United Church
Alberni Hwy., Coombs 752-9831 - Worship: 9:30
Evangelical Free Church
2462 Nanoose Rd., Nanoose 468-9233 - Worship: 11:00
Foursquare Gospel Church
186 Shelley Rd., Parksville 248-6467 - Worship: 10:30
Knox United Church
345 North Pym, Parksville 248-3927 - Worship: 10:00
Our Saviour Lutheran Church
795 West Island Hwy., Parksville 248-6644 - Worship: 10:00
Parksville Fellowship Baptist Church
550 North Pym, Parksville 248-6322 - Worship: 8:30 & 11:00
Parksville Pentecostal Church
187 Alberni Hwy., Parksville 248-5333 - Worship: 10:30
Qualicum Community Baptist Church
600 Beach Rd., Qualicum Beach 752-9123 - Worship: 10:30
St.Anne's/St.Edmund's Anglican Church
407 Wembley Rd., Parksville 248-3114 - Worship: 9:00 & 10:30
St.Columbia Presbyterian Church
921 Wembley Rd., Parksville 248-2348 - Worship: 10:30
St.Mark's Anglican Church
138 West Hoy Lake Rd., Qualicum Beach 752-5414 - Worship: 9:00 & 11:00
St.Mary's Anglican Church
2600 Powder Pt., Nanoose 468-5684 - Worship: 9:00 & 11:00
St.Stephen's United Church
150 Village Way, Qualicum Beach 752-9831 - Worship: 9:00 & 11:00
The Salvation Army
170 West Hirst, Parksville 248-8794 - Worship: 10:30
Vancouver Island Day Trips
With Parksville's central Vancouver Island location, it's easy to take advantage of nearby recreation opportunities. Whether you choose to stroll Nanaimo's Harbourside Walkway, ski Mt. Washington (Comox Valley), or go whale-watching off the Island's West Coast (Tofino, Ucluelet, Long Beach), Parksville is the ideal spot to launch your Island adventures.
Nanaimo's Harbourside - Walkway A 4 km (2.4 mile) network of public walkways between Harbour Park Terminal and Departure Bay Ferry Terminal, Nanaimo's Harbourside Walkway rewards visitors with excellent views of the harbour and Newcastle and Protection Islands. The Bastion, the Nanaimo District Museum, and the new Port Theatre are all situated along this walkway, which passes through several park areas, including Georgia and Maffeo Sutton Parks. At the south end, walk onto the ferry to Gabriola Island and visit the world famous Malaspina Galleries (dramatic, cave like sandstone formations), and the numerous artists' studios.
Lighthouse Country - Only 15 minutes north of Qualicum Beach along Hwy. 19A, the Scenic Oceanside Route, is Lighthouse Country and the friendly communities of Qualicum Bay, Bowser and Deep Bay. Here you will find plenty of opportunities to fish, kayak, canoe, sail, hike, trailed, beach comb, golf and cave. You can catch your own salmon, dig your own clams or wait on the Deep Bay dock for the commercial fishing boats to return with the day's catch. This is the spot for watchable wildlife, whether it's an eagle on the wing, deer grazing in the woods, or seals and sea lions playing off shore.
Pacific Rim - Port Alberni, Tofino, and Ucluelet - On the exposed West Coast of Vancouver Island, an inspiring stretch of coast awaits. Park at any number of public beaches and roam some of the 19 km (over 11 miles) of sandy shore. Surfers from around the world come to ride the waves at Long Beach, Canada's surfing capital. Easily accessible boardwalk trails lead into the lush rain forest and to some of Canada's biggest and oldest trees. The nearby villages of Tofino and Ucluelet offer whale-watching excursions, plus shops and galleries filled with local and First Nations art.
Comox Valley - Courtenay, Comox, and Mt.Washington - A trip to the Comox Valley (1 hour north of Parksville) would not be complete without a visit to Mt. Washington. With a ski season from December to April, Mt. Washington boasts 42 alpine runs, seven lifts and one of the highest average snowfalls in North America. In the summer, ride the chair lift to the top of Mt. Washington and hike or mountain bike through an extensive trail system that leads to colourful alpine flowers and extraordinary views all the way to the Coastal Range across the Georgia Strait. Just 30 minutes north of Parksville/Qualicum Beach you can discover the serenity of small island living on Denman and Hornby Islands. Rent a bike or kayak and experience for yourself the unique character of each island. Stroll the beach at Denman's Fillongley Provincial Park or Hornby's Tribune Bay and Whaling Station Bay. Short ferry rides connect these small islands with the scenic Oceanside Route Hwy. 19A.
Campbell River - Known as the 'Salmon Capital of the World', Campbell River has been a favourite fishing destination for many years. Campbell River is also the gateway to wilderness ecotourism in Strathcona Park and the Discovery Islands.
Cowichan - Chemainus and Duncan - One of the oldest European settlements on Vancouver Island, Chemainus is the home of 33 world famous murals depicting the early settlement and industry of the area. The Chemainus Valley Museum depicts the history of the region as well as the inspiring history of the 'Little Town That Did'. Local dinner theatre productions are a popular year round attraction for residents and visitors alike. Duncan is known as the 'City of Totems'. Nearly 80 totem poles can be found primarily downtown and along the Trans Canada Highway. The Cowichan Native Village features one of BC's largest Native Art galleries, live performances, and carving demonstrations.
List of other RV parks in British Columbia
Tel: (250) 248-6242
Email: