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    Chemainus River Estuary Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    2.7 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    15 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Chemainus River Estuary

    The Chemainus River Estuary Trail is a 2.7 km out-and-back hiking route south of Nanaimo, BC, that traverses the wetland terrain where the Chemainus River meets the east coast of Vancouver Island. Along the trail, you will pass by scenic farmland, beautiful forests, and of course, the wetlands that are home to countless wildlife species in the area. With flat and easy-to-navigate trails, this route is perfect for hikers of all skill levels to relax and explore this unique coastal environment.

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    Route Description for Chemainus River Estuary Hike

    With such a unique variation in terrain for an area right on the coast, the Chemainus River Estuary is the perfect place for a fun, family-friendly adventure near Nanaimo. Setting out from the parking area, make your way along the trail to the northeast and take in the views of the farmland on your left and the forests on your right. From here, you will pass by countless blackberry bushes, as well as massive maple, fir, and cottonwood trees. Continue further along the trail as it begins to run alongside the Chemainus River at a spot that is popular with fisherman and birdwatchers. Once you have reached the end of the trail, turn back and retrace your steps through this lovely landscape to return to the parking area where you began your hike.

    Getting to the Chemainus River Estuary Hike Trailhead

    To reach the Chemainus River Estuary trailhead from Duncan, head north on BC-1 for 11.0 km and turn right onto Mount Sticker Road, following it for 650 m. Turn left onto Chemainus Road and continue on for 1.8 km before turning right on Swallowfield Road. You will arrive at the trailhead in 220 m.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      April-December

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Chemainus River Estuary Hike Elevation Graph

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