2 minute read
Explore Chemainus
This time of year is perfect for getting out and discovering something new. Chemainus is the perfect place to start. With countless parks surrounded by old growth trees, the long and meandering Trans Canada Trail, lake, beach, ocean access, and sunken scuba diving treasures; you could spend days going from park to park. Each area has easy access to trails and open spaces, along with a number of specific activities like swimming, scuba diving, mountain biking, and skate boarding. Come and spend the day – or better yet, stay for a night or two and explore the Coastal wonderments of Cowichan. With a beautiful hotel and many B&B’s you are sure to enjoy an extended stay.
Start off by strolling along the Trans Canada Trail, following the short gentle wilderness path alongside beautiful Askew Creek Park, a well-groomed, level walk of breathtaking streams enveloping you into nature. Kin Beach Park offers expansive ocean access and lush green spaces perfect for spending the day outdoors. Come when the tide is in and the water is just a few feet from the sea walls, or come when the tide recedes and find the small tide pools that appear amongst the rocky wash. Sundown is simply stunning, watching the water sparkle from the waves as the cotton candy skies fade into a clear crisp night. Bring a blanket to stargaze in the lush, seaside grass for something just a little extra. Looking for something with a little more movement? Walk the shores of Chemainus Lake. Take the two-kilometre trail brings you right to the water’s edge and back again in this beautiful, circular path. Watch the fog roll in and listen to nature around you. Explore Echo Heights through the self-guided forest trails that intertwine through 54 acres of lush Douglas Fir forest. Lope through sparkling shallow ponds, mossy rock outcrops, small falls, and pastoral farmers’ fields. Listen to the birds chirp, and watch the sun filter down through the trees in this magical escape. If you prefer something more on the beaten path, explore the dozens upon dozens murals through the town, plus over a dozen works of art and countless other finds; you are sure to have a wonderful day exploring. Follow the yellow footprints at your own pace from one mural to the next or take a narrated tour in an old fashioned, horse-drawn carriage. Each mural showcases the rich history of Chemainus, and each scene depicts some part of local culture.
Explore the town of Chemainus where you will find many boutique shops, artisan restaurants, cafés and specialty shops. Take the time to visit the Public Market which is the first of its kind in the region hosting a multitude of vendors to browse. Head down for music in the park or the outdoor Wednesday market from 1-6 pm. Visit one of the most exciting towns along the Cowichan coast this summer. Explore Chemainus. For more details go to www.visitchemainus.ca