Things to Do

Cumberland is the perfect base camp for a days adventure. We are literally steps away from some of the best hiking and mountain biking trails in BC and a 20 minute drive from Mount Washington Alpine Resort and Strathcona Provincial Park.

Comox Lake is but a 6km drive featuring swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking and canoeing.

Mountain Biking

New mountain bike trail maps for both Forbidden Plateau and Cumberland have been updated and are now on sale at Dodge City Cycles and the Riding Fool Hostel.

See up-to-date information on Comox Valley riding at http://www.cvmtb.com/

Comox Valley Bike Shops

Hiking

The Comox Valley is surrounded by wilderness and there are unlimited opportunities for exploration. Great trails, awe-inspiring scenery and plenty of wildlife await whether you prefer to walk alongside the ocean, trek into the mountains, or anything in between.

Many developed trails on the island can be completed in a few hours. Some include services like outhouses, flower gardens, amphitheatres, fountains, picnic tables, ponds, playgrounds, playing fields and viewing benches. Multi day backpacking trails have designated wilderness camping locations, food cache storage and pit toilets.

Ski/Ride Mount Washington

Vancouver Island's largest downhill skiing and snowboarding recreation mountain. Mount Washington is a year round destination located in Strathcona Park. Alpine skiing and snowboarding as well as cross country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing in the winter (November to April). Enjoy backpacking, hiking and mountain biking in the spring, summer and early fall.

Sightseeing

Beaches and Water Sports

The Comox Valley is also an ideal spot for beachcombing and nature viewing. Sandy stretches of beach yield intriguing shells and fossils, while the pebbled shores are filled with flat skipping stones and colourful rocks polished by the waves. For those wanting a little more action on the water, enjoy a variety of water sports including wakeboarding, kitesurfing, waterskiing, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling. Rentals and lessons are available locally for this kaleidoscope of water fun.

Birdwatching

The Comox Valley and Baynes Sound are designated as "Globally Significant" Important Bird Areas by the B.C Federation of Naturalists and Bird Studies Canada. The second highest concentration of over wintering waterfowl in British Columbia is found here, drawn by the protected waters and nearby farmlands which provide habitat and an abundant food supply.

The Comox Valley is the winter home to approximately 2000 Trumpeter Swans, a magnificent bird that can be spotted in many fields during the day from October until March. As evening falls flocks of swans can frequently be seen in the Courtenay River estuary, easily viewed from the Courtenay Municipal Air Park Walkway located near the Visitor Centre. In addition, numerous bird species that can be spotted here include 10 species of gulls and terns, 16 types of diving ducks, nine dabbling ducks and 13 species of raptors. Magnificent Bald Headed Eagles also call Comox Valley home.

Farms and Vineyards

The Comox Valley is an agri-cultural hotspot with over 119 farms covering 30,000 acres - 30% of the active farmland on Vancouver Island. From May through October, visit the Comox Valley Farmers' Market to shop for fresh, organic and specialty products. Many individual farms also sport roadside markets featuring fresh produce.

Visit one of the local petting farms and have a chance to tour through the farm and see all kinds of animals. Hand feed baby chicks, ducks, sheep and freindly goats. Something everyone will enjoy!

The Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery is the first land-based winery in the Comox Valley and one of Canada's top agricultural and culinary destinations

Golfing

The Comox Valley and surrounding area has numerous golf courses, six of which are open year-round. Facilities range from a deluxe championship golf course complete with full service clubhouse, restaurant and lounge to a miniature golf course that caters to family groups. Each course has its own special attributes, and all possess stunning mountain views.

Fishing

Salt and fresh water sport fishing is one of the Valley's biggest attractions. Well-stocked lakes, countless rivers and protected ocean waters contain salmon, red snapper and halibut, as well as cutthroat trout and steelhead. Rent a boat or take a charter, and get ready to catch the big one!

Horseback Riding

Bear Creek Ranch

Horseback, Trail Riding and Equestrian Centre with Club House. Safe and dependable horses; owners have over 25 years experience. Bear Creek Ranch

One on One Trail Rides

Personalized guided trail rides in some of Comox Valley's most scenic areas, for groups of up to 4 people. Sunset rides with views of the Beaufort Range. Special packages include fireside dinner. Customized packages available. One on One Trailrides