Easy Hikes For Children - Vancouver Island

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Vancouver Island is known to have some of the most magnificent and beautiful hikes from around the world. Below is a list of easy hikes that a family of all ages can enjoy with ease.  When starting off on a hiking adventure please also consider the following.

 
Camping Equipment
  • Water
  • Proper Foot Wear
  • Food 
  • Hat/Rain Coat/ Backpack
  • Sunscreen
  • Emergency Kit
  • Map/Compass
  • Camera - To Capture beauitful  Pictures

1)  Goldstream Provincial Park - Prospectors Trail  Difficulty: Medium Length: 2-3 hours and Between 2km-3km

A very easy hike for children and even our furry little friends are welcome too. Entrance is right before entering/exiting Victoria after/before the Malahat.  There is very little elevation change however there are some narrow areas in which toddlers may need assistance. Most of this hike is in the shade. If you go to the park in the Fall you can watch the iconic Salmon run, which is amazing to watch and a great learning experience for kids.  Make sure you bring cash for the parking meters.

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2)  Ruckle Provincial Park - Saltspring Island  Difficulty: Easy Lenght: 1 hour and Between .5km-1km

This is an amazing day adventure hike with your entire family.  Getting There:  You can either arrive by your own personal boat or a BC Ferry that leaves either from Crofton or Swatz Bay Victoria (Schedule here).  The view of the ocean if absolutely outstanding and a must see.  If you go on the BC parks website you can also camp there during the summer months.   Once completing the hike it is a great place for kids to play on the beach and look for sea treasures.  Key Points - Beaver Point, Historic Orchard and the Lighthouse.

Ruckle Park

3)  Cathedral Grove: MacMillan Provincial Park - Port Alberni  Difficulty: Easy Lenght: 1 hour and Between .5km-1km

This hike is absolutely stunning with some of the largest Douglas firs on the planet.  Kids will LOVE it and so will dogs (Must be on Leases). If you are heading to Tofino or Port Alberni and need a place to stretch your legs and get the kids out for some fresh air,  this is your stop. Parking is quite limited especially during the summer months, so arrive early or go hiking during off season.  The walking path is clear and easy for children of all ages.  

Catherdral Grove

4) Englishman River Falls: North Nanaimo  Difficulty: Easy Length: 1 - 2 hour and Between 2km-3km

This is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Nanaimo Area. The two waterfalls are absolutely stunning and breathtaking. Englishman River Falls is best suited for older kids 8+ as there is some steep inclines and a fast flowing river. Key points: Slower moving portion of river that is great place for swimming, Camping which can be booked through BC Parks and the amazing water falls. Pay parking meters and lots of parking spaces.  Bring a Picnic! -  Camping Fee: $23.00 per party / night

englishman rivers.jpg

4) Holland Creek Trail: Ladysmith  Difficulty: Easy Length: 1 - 2 hour and Between 2km-3km

There are over 30km + of trails near the Holland Creek Trail. You could explore these trails for days and always see something new.  Dogs are welcome and there is also wheechair/Stroller access.  Park Highlights include Crystal Falls, Colliery Dam and the Salmon run in the fall. 

Holland Creek Trail