Arrowsmith Coombs Country
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of rustic adventures and scenic hikes as they explore the rural communities that make up bucolic Arrowsmith Coombs Country — Coombs, Errington, Hilliers, Meadowwood and Whiskey Creek.
This charming section of Parksville’s southwestern countryside is also home to the region’s towering namesake mountain, a popular local market (complete with rooftop goats), a contingent of campgrounds, diverse dining options, and a lake whose waters are rumoured to be patrolled by an aquatic beast the likes of the famed Loch Ness monster.
Things to Do in Arrowsmith Coombs Country
Take a short, 5-minute drive along Alberni Highway from Parksville or Memorial Avenue from Qualicum Beach and you’ll enter Arrowsmith Coombs Country, where you’ll discover a diverse mix of activities and experiences sure to be an excellent addition to any itinerary.
Wildlife
In addition to your encounter with goats on the roof, Arrowsmith Coombs Country also presents families with multiple opportunities to observe and learn about wildlife. At Errington’s North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, a non-profit animal rehabilitation facility, view more than 60 non-releasable animals, including bears, owls and bald eagles. In Coombs, visitors to Butterfly World can admire butterflies from around the world in one of its greenhouses, view colourful koi fish in indoor and outdoor ponds, and learn about other animals throughout the property, including reptiles and birds.
More awe-inspiring natural beauty awaits at MacMillan Provincial Park along Alberni Highway, which is home to Cathedral Grove — a 157-hectare grouping of towering, magnificent Douglas-fir trees, some more than 800 years old. A network of trails allows you to walk amongst these 80-metre-tall giants, eventually leading to Cameron Lake, a prime spot for fishing and swimming.
Perfect for camping, Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park near Whiskey Creek is also home to waterfalls, old-growth forests, and a 6 km network of shaded trails that offer incredible views of the upper and lower falls.
Cameron Lake is a top choice for swimming, fishing, kayaking and even windsurfing, with the Beaufort Picnic Site serving as an excellent place to refuel and relax during or after your experience on the lake. Paddleboards, kayaks and other gear can be rented from the nearby Take Off Adventure Rentals in Coombs. While exploring the lake, keep your eyes peeled for “Cammie,” the mythical Cameron Lake cryptid rumoured to swim beneath the surface.
For more swimming (but with one less sea monster), dip into the crystal clear waters of the swimming holes formed below the lower falls in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park.
Amusements
On dry land, entertain the whole family at Fast Time Amusements between Errington and Parksville. This all-in-one entertainment complex includes archery experiences, axe throwing ranges, laser and archery tag courses, and a 1,650-foot, 35-turn outdoor karting track sure to thrill every racer.
Eating & Drinking
With so much to see and do in Arrowsmith Coombs Country, it’s important to remember to set aside time to savour the region’s culinary scene. Start the morning with a locally roasted coffee or espresso from Creekmore's Coffee in Coombs. Nearby, Trees Restaurant & Bakery serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an on-site bakery that produces cookies, cakes, and even the buns used on sandwiches and other menu items.
Still in Coombs, sample artisan Vancouver Island cheese and observe the cheese-making process at BoMé Cheese in Coombs, or grab a spot at a table and feast on their menu of authentic German dishes. Continue your global food tour at Thai Smile Cuisine, whose menu includes tom kha, red curry and pad Thai.
Don’t forget to return to the goat-topped Coombs Old Country Market for fine Italian dining at Cuckoo Trattoria, Mexican-inspired dishes at Taqueria Cantina and The Market Café for casual soups, sandwiches and seasonal specials. Imbibers should visit the nearby Misguided Spirits, a craft micro-distillery whose gin, vodka and other spirits are made using only British Columbia grain.
For fresh, locally sourced produce, meat and other provisions, the Errington Farmers’ Market is a must-visit.
Events
Plan your visit to Arrowsmith Coombs Country around one of the region’s exciting events, such as the Coombs Bluegrass Festival, which is hosted each July or August and is the longest-running bluegrass festival in British Columbia. Also held annually in August, the Coombs Fair has been bringing food, vendors, animals and amusements to the Coombs Fairgrounds since 1913. In Errington, enjoy a regular line-up of live music and other performances at the Errington War Memorial Hall.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
Located near Errington in Arrowsmith Coombs Country, just a short drive from Parksville and Qualicum Beach, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is known for its natural beauty, which makes it one of…
Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park
Breathe in the fresh air and experience the unforgettable sight of some the oldest and tallest trees in Canada.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park
Don’t miss one of the most beautiful parks for camping on Vancouver Island, featuring cascading waterfalls in a mountainside forest setting.
Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail
Hike the historic Arrowsmith CPR Trail for an endless and inspiring view.
Mountain Biking
Discover exciting, local single tracks and beginner-friendly trails for miles of off-road fun and exercise.
Hiking & Trails
Access the trail systems of some of British Columbia's most revered Provincial Parks.
10 Parksville Qualicum Beach Must Do's
We asked our Facebook followers about the top things to do in Parksville Qualicum Beach and here's what they told us!
6 Provincial Parks for Swimming
Wanna go for a swim? Parksville Qualicum Beach includes 6 BC Provincial Parks you can head to for a refreshing dip.