Vancouver Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of scenic hiking trails that are easily accessible from many popular campsites. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking for a leisurely stroll, you’ll find the perfect trail to explore the island’s diverse landscapes. Here are the top hiking trails near your campsite on Vancouver Island that are sure to make your camping experience unforgettable.
1. The Juan de Fuca Trail (Near China Beach Campground)
Distance: 47 km (One-way)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best for: Experienced hikers and backpackers
Located just off the China Beach Campground, the Juan de Fuca Trail is one of the most famous long-distance hikes on Vancouver Island. Stretching from China Beach to Botanical Beach, this trail offers breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, lush rainforests, and tidal pools. Although it is a multi-day trek, you can also enjoy shorter sections of the trail, ideal for those staying at nearby campsites.
2. Goldstream Trestle Trail (Near Goldstream Provincial Park)
Distance: 3 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Families and beginner hikers
The Goldstream Trestle Trail is located near Goldstream Provincial Park, a popular spot for RV camping. This short yet beautiful hike takes you through old-growth forests to the impressive Goldstream Trestle Bridge, offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The trail is relatively easy, making it perfect for families, but also rewarding for hikers of all levels with the amazing views at the trestle.
3. Mount Arrowsmith (Near Brannen Lake Campsites)
Distance: 9 km
Difficulty: Challenging
Best for: Experienced hikers
For those camping at Brannen Lake, a hike up Mount Arrowsmith is a must. This challenging trail takes you to the summit where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island. The trek is steep, but the vista from the top is well worth the effort. The trail is best suited for experienced hikers, so be prepared with proper gear and plenty of water.
4. The Wild Pacific Trail (Near Wya Point Resort)
Distance: 8 km (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Everyone, especially families and nature lovers
The Wild Pacific Trail near Ucluelet and Wya Point Resort offers one of the most picturesque coastal hikes on Vancouver Island. This trail is perfect for campers who want to take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and ancient forests. The trail has several access points, so you can choose the length and difficulty of your hike. Don’t forget your camera, as the views here are stunning at every turn.
5. Strathcona Provincial Park Trails (Near Saratoga Beach Resort)
Distance: Varies by trail
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Best for: All skill levels
Strathcona Provincial Park is a massive, 250,000-acre park with over 100 hiking trails, making it one of the best places for hiking on Vancouver Island. The trails range from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents. For campers staying at Saratoga Beach Resort, you’ll find many scenic and accessible trails nearby, like the Elk River Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall. The park’s diversity means you can find a trail that suits any hiking level.
6. Hiking in Pacific Rim National Park (Near Wya Point Resort)
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Families, solo adventurers, and nature lovers
The Pacific Rim National Park is home to some of the most iconic coastal hiking trails on Vancouver Island, located near Wya Point Resort. The trails take you through lush forests, along sandy beaches, and over rocky headlands. The Rainforest Trail is particularly popular, with its boardwalk leading through towering trees and dense ferns, offering a unique hiking experience.
7. Englishman River Falls Trail (Near Living Forest Oceanside Campground)
Distance: 1.5 km (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Families, beginner hikers, and nature photographers
For those staying at Living Forest Oceanside Campground in Nanaimo, the Englishman River Falls Trail is a quick and rewarding hike. This easy loop trail leads you to the stunning Englishman River Falls, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the river and the waterfall below. The trail is family-friendly and perfect for a short hike to stretch your legs while taking in some beautiful natural scenery.
8. Mount Maxwell Provincial Park (Near Galiano Island Campsites)
Distance: 2.5 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Scenic views, intermediate hikers
Mount Maxwell is one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. Located on Galiano Island, which is accessible by ferry from Vancouver Island, the trail takes you through forests and grasslands before reaching the summit. The view from the top is spectacular, offering a sweeping vista of the surrounding islands, including Pender Island, Salt Spring Island, and Vancouver Island.
9. Juan de Fuca Marine Trail (Near China Beach Campground)
Distance: 47 km (One-way)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best for: Backpackers and experienced hikers
Another gem near China Beach Campground is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Although it is a multi-day hike, the trail’s coastal views and dense rainforest make it one of the most popular on Vancouver Island. You can explore the trail in sections, each offering spectacular views of the coastline, beaches, and wildlife. The trail is rugged and offers challenging terrain, so it’s best suited for those with hiking experience.
10. Cathedral Grove Trail (Near Cathedral Provincial Park)
Distance: 1 km
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Families, easy walks
Cathedral Grove is one of the most iconic hiking spots on Vancouver Island, located in the heart of Cathedral Provincial Park. Known for its towering ancient Douglas Fir and Red Cedar trees, this easy loop trail is perfect for families with children or anyone looking for a peaceful walk among some of the oldest trees in the province. It’s an easy hike that’s accessible for all levels of hikers and provides a serene environment for photography and wildlife watching.
Vancouver Island offers an abundance of scenic hiking trails that are perfect for exploring after setting up camp in one of the island’s many RV-friendly campsites. From coastal walks to mountain ascents, there’s a trail for every type of hiker. These top 10 hiking trails near your campsite will ensure you experience the very best of Vancouver Island’s natural beauty while enjoying your RV camping adventure.
Don’t forget to check trail conditions, bring appropriate gear, and respect local wildlife and ecosystems as you embark on these unforgettable hikes.
