Campbell River contains numerous hiking trails worth visiting no matter the season—pouring waterfalls line the trail in fall, while spring welcomes lush plant life, and summer provides drier, more populated trails. Many may use our city as a stock-up point before traversing westwards to Strathcona Provincial Park, but there are plenty of scenic hiking trails for all levels to explore within the city limits (or just beyond them).
Locals are passionate about preserving these amazing natural places. When hiking, please practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out what you pack in, and for your own safety and the preservation of the trails, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails.
Hiking in Elk Falls
The most popular hiking trail in Campbell River is to Elk Falls; a majestic waterfall with tranquil swim-worthy river spots above it and an old-growth forest loop to walk. Steps and a suspension bridge mean the last section is more strenuous, but the walk from the car park is well-maintained and gently sloping. The park also contains less-frequented trails that are perfect for the more adventurous hiker and wildlife enthusiasts. The 5km Canyon View Trail loop is just five minutes from the downtown core. It is well-maintained but has some stairs and uneven steeper sections, plus a high bridge over the canyon. The Canyon View Trail can be extended all the way to Elk Falls via the Millenium Trail.
To the south of Highway 28, but still in the Provincial Park, the Quinsam River trails start from the Quinsam Campground. For those comfortable with steeper sections and uneven paths, these trails can be extended as far as the Quinsam Hatchery outside of the park. Make sure to be bear- and wildlife-aware in our river areas, especially during the salmon run in the Fall.
Beginner Hiking: Beaver Lodge Forest Lands
The best hiking trails in Campbell River for beginners can be found in Beaver Lodge Forest Lands. The predominately flat, smooth 5.6km Rail Trail is bordered by picturesque forest and creeks, while many side trails add extra distance and more meandering, winding sections to your route. Be sure to download a map prior to taking an off-shoot and be aware that this is a popular dog off-leash area for locals.
Intermediate Hiking: Snowden Demonstration Forest
Snowden Demonstration Forest is a bikers’ paradise, but it is also frequented by intermediate, prepared hikers. It is not consistently signposted, with many off-shoots, so it is important to download a map prior to setting out. The best place to park when coming from town is the Lost Frog or Lost Lake parking lots; both access the popular Lost Lake loop trail. Throughout the forest, there are rocky bluffs, steep rooty sections, panoramic lookout points, and lakes, and more often than not you’ll find you have large sections of the trail entirely to yourself.
Intermediate Hiking: the Ripple Rock Trail
15 minutes north of town is the 8.5km out-and-back Ripple Rock Trail. The lookout at the end takes in the impressive, historic Seymour Narrows, and you’ll pass through beautiful forest and Menzies Bay on the way there. There are boulders, stairs, steep sections, and tree roots on this trail so, while popular, it’s recommended for more intermediate hikers.
Experience the Best Campbell River Hiking Trails Safely
Always be prepared when you head out on our trails. We recommend you download a map for most of our trails beyond Elk Falls Provincial Park and always tell someone where you’re going (you may lose cell service in some sections). If you’ve forgotten any essentials, you can stock up at River Sportsman or various other retailers in town. Please follow Leave No Trace principles, and be prepared for potential wildlife encounters.
