Top 5 Outdoor Activities to enjoy in Nanaimo
![]() |
Beautiful Nanaimo Harbour |
4. Hiking! Mount Benson is Nanaimo’s mini Grouse Grind. A 2 hour (one way) uphill climb to an amazing view of Nanaimo. There are many starting points but the most popular is at the end of Bensonview Rd, about 15 minutes from downtown. Take in the view, have a picnic and enjoy the feeling of reaching the top! For a less strenuous hike there is also an amazing off-leash dog hike Cable Bay Trail that is just over an hour and brings you down to awesome views of the ocean. Excellent hiking trails are all over the city as well as an extensive parkway trail system starting from the south end and ending in the north.
![]() |
View from a peak near Timberlands Lake |
3. Bathtub Weekend! The last weekend in July (July 23-26 2015) is an important weekend for most Nanaimoites. It marks the date for the Nanaimo Marine Festival and World Championship Bathtub Race. Tons of free events, beer gardens, food venders, outdoor entertainment at Maffeo Sutton Park (downtown) and a phenomenal fireworks display on the Saturday night. Sunday is the race, with the finish line at Maffeo Sutton. It’s an action packed weekend you don’t want to miss!
2. Nanaimo River swimming holes. Probably some of the best river swimming in British Columbia, the Nanaimo River boasts locations for the rock jumper or calmer family friendly pools along it’s 56 km stretch. There are also ample lakes to cool off in as well, Westwood being the most popular and often has lifeguards on duty.
![]() |
So many wonderful swimming holes at Nanaimo River! |
All these activities and MUCH more can be experienced near the GableCraft Summerhill homes on Dufferin
Comments