Vancouver Island Region Directory

• Regional Overview
• News and Events
• Maps
• Nanaimo and Area
• Cowichan Valley and Area
• Victoria and Area
• Contact Information

Regional Overview

Signpost near the Trans Canada Trail

The western portion of the Trans Canada Trail begins in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, on Vancouver Island. From there, it travels north to Nanaimo, where it connects to the mainland by ferry.

The length of the trail is approximately 200 km. The trail passes through scenic forest, mountain, coastal and rural areas, and visits several communities along the route.

To view a map of the trail route on Vancouver Island click on map link.

An excellent book, Trans Canada Trail: the British Columbia Route includes detailed maps and route descriptions for the Trans Canada Trail on Vancouver Island.

The trail is comprised of new and existing trails and roads. Portions of the trail are built on abandoned railway lines where the grades are gentle and many of the famous wooden trestle bridges have been upgraded for trail use. The trail surface is normally packed or paved. The trail is used by pedestrians, cyclists, and horse back riders. Motorized vehicles are not permitted.

The development and improvement of the trail is an ongoing process. This work is a joint effort of regional districts, municipalities through which the trail passes, Trails BC, other active organizations and many volunteers. Alternate routes are always provided for portions of the trail route that are incomplete or under construction.

On Vancouver Island, there are three distinct regions where different groups are involved in trail development. Additional information is available for each of these areas.

• Nanaimo and Area (North section)
• Cowichan Valley and Area (Central section)
• Victoria and Area (South section)