Nature appreciation | Nanaimo Parks

Barsby Park

Extension of Millstone Trailway. Excellent views of Millstone River with series of cascading shallow pools. Acquired in 1941.

Blueback Beach Access

Beach Access off of Icarus Drive. Has many stairs that lead visitors down to the beach. Stairs were refurbished in 2005.

Bowen Park

If Nanaimo has an enchanted forest, this is it. Bowen Park is a favourite wilderness escape for tourists and city-dwellers alike. Located in the heart of the City, most of this…

Buttertubs Marsh

Grab a camera and some birdseed! This 18-hectare bird and wildlife sanctuary is located adjacent to the Millstone River near Bowen Park and was acquired in 1976. While at this park,…

Cable Bay Trail

Cable Bay Trail, a 1.9 kilometre trail, is one of Nanaimos best-kept secrets. A forest of alders, maples, firs, cedars and western hemlock tower overhead yet give the trail a quiet…

Chase River Estuary Park

Located in the south end of Nanaimo off the old Island Highway, this park is one of the City of Nanaimo’s greatest treasures. With almost a kilometre of trails, viewing platforms…

Colliery Dam Park

This 28 hectare park is a popular swimming spot in the summer and a wonderful retreat any time of year. The park is cool and quiet during fall and winter when the only…

Dallas Square Cenotaph

Park encompasses land on either side of Front Street and has good views of Nanaimo Harbour. Close to downtown stores and amenities. Area is home to a war and coal memorial….

Diver Lake is a natural lake consisting of excellent walking trails, wildlife viewing, wheelchair accessible fishing pier, playground area, playfield, fitness circuit and BMX track. Boating not allowed on lake. Acquired…

Fillinger Park

Has beach access via stairs.

Harbourfront Walk

From Cameron Island to Departure Bay ferry terminal, the Harbourfront walk is a breathtaking route. It follows allong the harbour offering views of the busy harbour activities, such as float planes…

Harbourside Playdock

Playground located in Maffeo Sutton Park, near Swy-A-Lana Lagoon Park.

Jack Point / Biggs Park

Going south of Nanaimo? Visit one of Nanaimo’s best-kept secrets at Jack Point and Biggs Park by following the signs to the Duke Point Ferry Terminal. This park offers pristine beaches,…

Kinsmen Park

Close to Kin Beach

Lagoon Park

Beach access. Excellent scenic viewpoints.

Linley Valley (Cottle Lake) Park

Linley Valley (Cottle Lake) Park is in the heart of the 1100 acre Linley Valley (See Context Map). This valley is the last remaining large expanse of natural habitat located within…

Lost Lake Park

Lost Lake Park Trail is approximately 1 kilometre long and encircles Lost Lake. It has natural obstacles on it, including rocks, cliffs and marshes and has bridges, boardwalks and lookouts for…

Loudon Park and Walkway

Located along Long Lake, this park is a great place to relax and play in the water. There is a nice sandy beach, play equipment and washrooms. Named after Bill Loudon….