Parksville Wetlands

This natural area features a network of trails ideal for walking, biking, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the stillness of the outdoors. Surrounded by a maturing forest and teeming with native plants, marsh birds and amphibians, the wetlands play a vital role in local water filtration and flood mitigation while supporting the city’s aquifer.

Explore the Parksville Wetlands Trail

The Parksville Wetlands trail system is an easy, accessible way to experience nature close to town. The mostly flat trails are well-suited for walking or biking and typically take under 30 minutes to complete. Birdwatchers will find plenty to see, with over 80 species recorded in the area, including hawks, sparrows, vireos, warblers, and woodpeckers.

Dogs are welcome on the trail but must remain on leash. For off-leash play, visit the nearby dog park at 735 Despard Avenue after your walk.

Directions & Parking

The Parksville Wetlands is located at 790 Hirst Avenue in Parksville, BC. Access points are available at the foot of Despard Avenue and along the Maple Glen walkway. Free on-street parking is available near the access points.

Parksville Wetlands History

Before becoming a protected park, the Parksville Wetlands underwent significant changes. The land was first logged in the early 1950s, then again in the late 1990s. In the 1980s, residential subdivisions were developed to the north, and historical records show that logging and urban expansion led to modifications of the natural landscape, including the construction of drainage courses.

By 1994, a report noted that Romney Creek and Carey Creek had been extensively channelized and routed through culverts as part of subdivision development. Over time, the area began to naturalize into a wetland due to land clearing, the type of soil present, and diverted drainage water.

For many years, the City of Parksville worked to acquire the land, known at the time as the Ermineskin lands. In 2017, the City purchased the 97-acre parcel from the Ermineskin Cree Nation and is now preserved as a public park to be maintained in perpetuity for future generations.

Nearby Adventures

Make a day of it by continuing along the Coombs to Parksville Rail Trail, which leads to the village of Coombs. Stop at the Old Country Market to see massive marble statues, enjoy a meal, and, depending on the season, spot the famous goats on the roof. Cyclists can ride further to Butterfly World Coombs to be surrounded by beautiful butterflies.

Prefer to explore closer to the wetlands? Try these nearby outdoor activities:

• Little Mountain Lookout - Set out on a short hike up to an incredible vista with expansive views of the region.
• North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre - Learn about wildlife rehabilitation and meet more than 60 resident, non-releasable animals.
• Parksville Community Park - Stroll the boardwalk, let the kids play on the swings and climb on the playground, peer into tide pools, and spend time on the beach.