Campbell River is shaking off the winter blues and springing into longer, brighter days, and more outdoor activities! If you’re looking for some spring activity inspiration, you’ve come to the right place. Enjoy our list of 5 activities to soak in all that spring has to offer.
Be sure to check out our driftwood creations scavenger hunt to see famous creatures like Peabody the Racoon.
1. Hike the Canyon View Trail
Directions: Access off of Highway 28 at the logging bridge.
Distance: 6km return minimal elevation
While Elk Falls Suspension Bridge tends to steal the spotlight in Elk Falls Provincial Park, its sister trail the Canyon View Trail, is one you don’t want to miss. The Canyon View Trail follows the banks of the Campbell River. In the late summer and fall it is likely that you will see people fly-fishing for salmon and you may even spot some swimming upstream on their way to spawn. If you would like to view Elk Falls and the suspension bridge, you can add the Millennium Trail on to your adventure, which would add on an extra 3.5km (return) to your journey. For more information about Elk Falls Provincial Park click here.
2. Watch the Cherry Blossoms Bloom
Would it even be spring without photos of blooming cherry blossoms? Campbell River may not have as many blossoms as Victoria, but you can still get your cherry blossom fix while you’re venturing around town. Top places around town to see these spring aesthetic trees are around City Hall and on the main strip in the downtown core, including in front of the Tidemark Theatre.
3. Stroll or Bike the Sea Walk
Directions: Runs from Hidden Harbour to Twillingate Rd, there are multiple parking areas along Hwy 19A.
Distance: Up to 15km
This paved lane runs alongside the shoreline offering a flat and convenient access to spectacular views of the Discovery Passage and Quadra Island. The pathway winds through iconic local hubs like the Fiftieth Parallel marker, Rotary Beach Park and local restaurants. Highlights for photographers are the Big Rock a massive, painted rock with many legends to its origin and Peabody the Raccoon a driftwood sculpture that “greets” people as they walk along the seawalk. In addition to the drifted creation, view impressive wood carvings scattered along the Sea Walk, which are created during the annual Transformations on the Shore chainsaw carving competition in the summer.
4. Chase Waterfalls
Campbell River and our surrounding region is home to a variety of picturesque waterfalls. Highway 28 winds its way between Campbell River and Gold River has over 70 waterfalls (in the rainy season). Here are some of our favourites to experience the beauty of the falls.
- Elk Falls
- Lupin Falls
- Lady Falls
For our full list of stop-worthy falls check out our “essential guide to waterfall chasing” here.
5. Experience Local Wildlife
For the marine lover, Campbell River and the surrounding Discovery Islands offer a hub of opportunities for whale watching, bear viewing and diving enthusiasts. There is a wide selection of tours available from the sea to the sky. Experience everything from whales, dolphins and sea lions to bears, elk, and eagles through the safe guidance of an experienced and knowledgeable tour operator.
Learn more about our local wildlife and marine tours here.
