The best walks and hikes around Nanaimo
4.5
(195)
1,499
hikers
71
hikes
Hiking around Nanaimo, situated on the east coast of Vancouver Island, offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences. The region features an extensive network of trails that traverse coastal areas, lush forests, and elevated terrain. Hikers can explore rugged shorelines with views across the Salish Sea, tranquil woodlands, and paths leading to waterfalls. This varied landscape provides options for different skill levels, from easy coastal walks to more challenging climbs.
Best hiking trails around Nanaimo
- The most popular hiking route is Jack Point trail — Biggs Park, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This coastal path features sandstone cliffs and views of Nanaimo Harbour.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Neck Point Park loop — Nanaimo, an easy 1.6 miles (2.7 km) path. It winds through forests with panoramic views across the Salish Sea and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Local hikers also love the Colliery Dam loop, a 1.4 miles (2.3 km) trail leading through urban forest around a man-made lake, often completed in about 38 minutes.
- Hiking around Nanaimo is defined by scenic coastal paths, dense woodlands, and trails leading to waterfalls and elevated viewpoints. The network offers options for various ability levels, from gentle lakeside strolls to more strenuous ascents.
- The routes in Nanaimo are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 1300 hikers have used komoot to explore Nanaimo's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 3, 2026
4.8
(5)
57
hikers
4.75km
01:15
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
8
hikers
2.66km
00:43
40m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.24km
01:15
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.34km
01:08
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.74km
00:42
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Frey Road is a well-maintained gravel road, with a small dirt parking area that sometimes has a port-a-potty. This is the northernmost trailhead for the Nanaimo River Trail. There are trash cans and clear marked trail signs, and the trail immediately ventures into the thick woods, as it follows the Nanaimo River southbound.
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Nanaimo River Regional Park spans 56 hectares and is one of just a few Coastal Douglas-fir forests that stand protected in the area. It's open to hiking, biking, and running, and there are a few swimming holes in the forest along the riverbanks.
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The Nanaimo River has its headwaters in the Vancouver Island Ranges and flows 78 kilometres until it ends in the Strait of Georgia. Historically near the town of Nanaimo, this river has been vital to the Snuneymuxw First Nation and a resource for early coal and timber industries. Today, the clear waters provide drinking water for over 86,000 people.
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Copley Waterfall is a small but scenic cascade tucked within the forest of the Copley Ridge Trails near Lantzville. The waterfall flows over a rocky ledge along Knarston Creek, especially lively after rainfall or during the wetter months. Surrounded by mossy rocks and dense coastal forest, it’s a peaceful spot to pause along the trail and listen to the sound of the water moving through the valley.
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The Copley Ridge trail network winds through forested ridges above Lantzville on the east coast of Vancouver Island. The trails follow an old logging road first built by pioneer farmer George Copley in the early 20th century, when the surrounding land was used for forestry. Today, the area is a 244-hectare working forest managed for recreation and sustainable wood production.
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Parking for the Knarston Creek trail is available along the roadside near the trail access in Lantzville. While it isn’t an official parking lot, there is usually enough space along the shoulder for several vehicles. Just be mindful not to park directly beside the trail entrance, as that area is commonly used by cars to turn around.
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Jack Point is a viewpoint at the end of a peninsula with panoramic views of Nanaimo Harbor and Descanso Bay as they reach out to the Strait of Georgia in the distance.
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Views of the Nanaimo River Estuary to the west along a dirt path sprinkled with small wooden bridges and a few sets of wooden stairs. At low tide, you can walk out farther out onto the banks of the estuary and see some cool rock formations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Nanaimo?
Nanaimo offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 70 routes available for exploration. These trails cater to different preferences, from easy coastal walks to more challenging ascents.
Are there any trails in Nanaimo that feature waterfalls?
Yes, Nanaimo and its surrounding area are home to several beautiful waterfalls. A popular choice is the hike to Ammonite Falls in Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, where you can see a waterfall cascading over fossil-embedded rock. You can also explore the Copley Waterfall via Knarston Creek loop, which offers a lovely forest walk to another scenic waterfall. Nearby, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park also boasts impressive upper and lower waterfalls.
What are some family-friendly hiking options in Nanaimo?
Many trails in Nanaimo are suitable for families. Easy, relatively flat options include the Neck Point Park loop, which offers coastal views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Colliery Dam loop is another great choice, winding through urban forest around two lakes with bridges and small waterfalls. Westwood Lake Park also features a popular, accessible loop trail around the lake.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in Nanaimo?
Nanaimo is very dog-friendly, with many parks and trails welcoming leashed dogs. The loop around Westwood Lake Park is a popular choice for dog walkers, offering a scenic path with mountain and forest views. The Colliery Dam loop is another excellent option for you and your canine companion.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes in Nanaimo?
Nanaimo's diverse landscape offers a range of stunning views. Coastal trails like Jack Point trail — Biggs Park and Neck Point Park loop provide breathtaking ocean vistas across the Strait of Georgia. Inland, trails around Westwood Lake and Colliery Dam offer serene lake and forest scenery. For panoramic views overlooking Nanaimo and the Coast Mountain range, a more challenging hike up Mount Benson is highly rewarding.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Nanaimo?
Yes, Nanaimo has several excellent circular routes. The Neck Point Park loop and the Colliery Dam loop are both popular, easy-to-moderate circular trails. For a unique experience, consider the Protection Island loop, which offers a pleasant walk around the island accessible by ferry.
What are some interesting natural attractions to see near Nanaimo's hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, Nanaimo boasts several notable natural attractions. You can visit Ammonite Falls, known for its unique fossil-embedded rock. Neck Point offers rugged coastal beauty and marine wildlife viewing. For a short ferry trip, explore Saysutshun (Newcastle Island Marine) Provincial Park with its rich cultural history and beautiful paths. Westwood Lake Beach is perfect for swimming and relaxing after a hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Nanaimo?
The hiking trails in Nanaimo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 170 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from stunning coastal views to lush forest paths, and the variety of options available for all skill levels. The well-maintained trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any trails suitable for wheelchairs or strollers in Nanaimo?
While many trails are family-friendly, truly wheelchair-accessible options are more limited. The Harbourfront Walkway offers a paved, flat surface ideal for wheelchairs and strollers. Westwood Lake Park also has sections of its loop trail that are generally accessible, though some parts may be uneven. It's always best to check specific trail conditions before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike in Nanaimo?
Nanaimo offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides warm, sunny weather perfect for coastal walks and lake activities. Fall showcases beautiful autumn colours in the forests. Even in winter, many lower elevation trails remain accessible, offering a peaceful experience, especially along the coast where storm watching can be dramatic.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Nanaimo's hiking trails?
Yes, several hiking areas in Nanaimo offer spots for wild swimming. Westwood Lake Park is a very popular year-round destination with a designated beach, perfect for a refreshing dip after completing the loop trail. Colliery Dam Park also features two lakes that are popular for freshwater swimming, especially during warmer months.
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Most popular attractions around Nanaimo
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