Vancouver Island

Nanaimo

A Green Oasis

Nanaimo is a classic west coast community situated on the eastern shores of Vancouver Island overlooking the Strait of Georgia (a.k.a. the Salish Sea). Known as “The Harbour City”, Nanaimo is quickly becoming known for the singletrack found in the lush green forests only a few minutes from the centre of town.

Ride the Doumont trail network for well maintained technical and flow trails for beginner to advanced riders. Head to Mount Benson for a prominent feature of the Nanaimo landscape and ride the Westwood Lake trails at its base. Just a 20-minute ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, Gabriola Island offers cross-country trails and a chill vibe for a fun family adventure.

Number of Trails:

393

Highest Elevation:

1,021 m

Trails:

easy: 39
intermediate: 238
difficult: 44
extra difficult: 11

Nanaimo Inspiration

Uncover stories from Nanaimo and beyond.

Getting Here & Trail Access

Nanaimo is the gateway to your Vancouver Island adventure and getting there is half the fun.

Nanaimo is north of Victoria via (Highway 1) and south of Comox via Highway 19. Nanaimo can be easily accessed from Vancouver and the Lower Mainland by BC Ferries.

Driving Distances & Times:

Victoria - 110 km (68 mi), 1 hour 30 minutes
Vancouver via BC Ferries - 81 km (50 mi), 2 hours 30 minutes
Powell River via BC Ferries - 150 km (93 mi), 3 hours

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is located 15 minutes south of Nanaimo with regional and interprovincial flights available with Air Canada and West Jet.

Harbour Air offers daily seaplane service to the Nanaimo Harbour from downtown Vancouver (Coal Harbour), Richmond (YVR South Terminal/Fraser River) and Sechelt (Sunshine Coast).