Lighthouse Country Regional Trail
Lighthouse Country Regional Trail offers a scenic forest walk through second-growth woodland, wetlands, and mossy clearings near Bowser on Vancouver Island.
The route follows a mix of compact gravel, forest service roads, and singletrack paths that show off the region’s natural beauty and community craftsmanship.
The Lighthouse Country Regional Trail takes you through coastal forest, wetlands, and mossy clearings near Bowser on Vancouver Island. Designed for a variety of uses, like biking, bird-watching, hiking, and running, the trail offers natural beauty and community art pieces, featuring hand-carved benches and sculptures along the route.
The South Loop is the primary section currently open for exploration, providing a peaceful, well-maintained path through the forest.
Location
Lighthouse Country Regional Trail is located at 3475 Lioness Blvd, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 2H1, Canada.
Getting There
Located off Highway 19A between Nile Creek and Horne Lake Road, the trail is easily accessible from Bowser.
South Access
Lioness Blvd Parking Lot | 3480 Lioness Blvd, Qualicum
North Access
McColl Road Parking Lot | 151 McColl Rd, Bowser
Mid-point Access
Trail Sections
Visitors can experience the rare Coastal Douglas-fir forest as they explore the different sections of the Lighthouse Country Regional Trail. The route offers options suitable for all ages and abilities.
South Section (Lioness Boulevard to Linx Road)
A 2.5-kilometre accessible gravel trail featuring washrooms, bridges, benches, a picnic table, interpretive signage, and a tapping rail for the visually impaired.
North Loop (McColl Road to Hydro Corridor)
A 2-kilometre dirt trail with narrow passages and exposed roots, offering a more natural hiking experience through forest terrain.
Nile Creek Connector Trail (Linx Road to Hydro Corridor)
A 0.6-kilometre link between the North Loop and South Section with dirt surfaces, stairs, boardwalk segments, steep grades, and exposed roots.
Total Distance
Approximately 4 kilometres one way, from Lioness Boulevard to McColl Road.
Insider's Tip: Visitors who rely on the engineered first section of the trail will need to plan an “out and back” route. Accessing the other sections requires navigating approximately 5 km of mixed surfaces, including gravel paths, forest service roads, and twisty, root-strewn singletrack. For this reason, the full loop is best suited to walkers, runners, and moderately skilled off-road cyclists.
Trail Features
The Lighthouse Country Regional Trail was designed intentionally with accessibility and community in mind. Several features make this trail stand out from others in the area. While exploring, take note of the following features that make Lighthouse Country Regional Trail a unique regional attraction:
- Two bridges along the route are gleaming aluminium and stand out against the forest backdrop of mostly wood‑constructed structures.
- The trail passes through a damp forest environment with moss‑covered stumps, draining marshes, and second‑growth evergreens.
- Along the trail, visitors will find creative chainsaw‑carved features, such as toadstools, fairy houses, and benches, that serve as whimsical forest art.
- The route follows portions of a former railway corridor (the dormant E&N Railway) as well as forest service roads, hydro corridors, and woodlot land.
- Lighthouse Country Regional Trail is a great place to practice Fresh Air Fitness, a series of outdoor exercises that offer a full-body workout.
Accessibility
The South Loop begins with a compact gravel surface ideal for walking, running, cycling, or stroller and mobility aid exploration. Bridges and culverts provide safe crossings over wetlands, while benches and rest areas offer space to pause along the way.
The trail includes a tapping‑rail system along the accessible south section to assist people with vision impairments.
Amenities
Parking and washroom facilities are available at the trailhead on Lioness Boulevard.
Insider's Tip: After approximately 1300 metres, or 2/3 of the way along this outward leg, you'll find a good-sized gravel “pull-out” to the side of the trail, complete with benches and a picnic table. This is an ideal spot to grab a snack, or to point out to kids as the intended lunch stop on the return journey.
Know Before You Go
Before heading out to hike, keep these tips in mind:
- Visitors might consider carrying a whistle and a small personal first-aid kit.
- Check the weather forecast and wear clothing and footwear appropriate for the activity.
- While the terrain is generally easy, the South Loop can take several hours to complete, especially for families or slower walkers. Bring water, snacks, and any prescription medications as a precaution.
- If exploring in the evening, carry a flashlight or headlamp.
- It is recommended to let someone know your route and expected return time.
- Don't forget your camera to snap photos of the unique trail features you'll encounter along the way!
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