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Carly Carey

Realtor®

Outdoor Activities in Cedar, BC Parks

Carly Carey Marketing
| Team Leader
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Cedar is a beautiful, scenic community located less than 20 minutes south of the city of Nanaimo. Known as a tranquil area, residents of Cedar enjoy its more relaxed and easygoing nature, as this part of Central Vancouver Island is also recognized for its many parks and green spaces.

Whether you're interested in taking a spontaneous trip to see the water or planning a longer hike with the family, Cedar offers a variety of outdoor activities for those of all ages. Here are some of our favourites here at the Carly Carey Real Estate Team.

 

The Cable Bay Trail

A favourite of area residents, the Cable Bay Trailhead is found about seven minutes from the center of Cedar, in the northern end of the community. It is accessed via Nicola Road, which has a small, gravel area for visitor parking. 

This trail is among the top forested trails in this part of the island—and for good reason! At about two kilometres in length (but nearing five round-trip), this trail winds through the lush forest, leading upwards to the coast. It offers views of the harbour and nearby islands—famed Gabriola Island in particular—as well as a scenic point overlooking Dodds Narrows through Joan Point Park. 

The Cable Bay Trail is so highly-rated because of its opportunities to see wildlife, which includes sea lions, owls, and even whales—if you’re there at the right time and you’re very patient!

Trail difficulty: Easy to Moderate (some uphill and rocky portions)

 

Roberts Memorial Park sign in Cedar, BC

 

Roberts Memorial Park

On the opposite end of Cedar is Roberts Memorial Park—a 12-minute drive south of the community. This park, which is the smallest of all of the parks on this list, leads right down to the coast, and features a one kilometer walking trail through an old-growth forest. 

Though the beach itself is quite rocky (it features ancient sandstone ledges that the park is famed for) the view is spectacular: clear ocean views with the Gulf Islands in the distance. This area is great for a family picnic but many find their way here for the wildlife. Roberts Memorial Park is a popular hangout spot for marine life—specifically sea lions!

Trail difficulty: Easy

 

Hemer Park welcome sign

Hemer Provincial Park

Centrally-located in the heart of Cedar, about six minutes from the Duke Point Highway, Hemer Provincial Park is considered a hidden gem—at least to those who aren’t locals. This park sits on Holden Lake and, with a small parking area at the end of Hemer Road, is about two hundred and seventy acres in size.

Hemer Provincial park is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, and offers an extensive trail system (11 kilometres total) that weaves through forest and marshlands. Those who visit have the chance to see beavers, bald eagles, and numerous other species of birds.

The park also is known for horseback riding, fishing, and canoeing.

Trail difficulty: Easy

 

WildPlay Adventure Park in Nanaimo, BC

WildPlay Nanaimo

Though not a regional or provincial park, WildPlay Nanaimo is a point of interest for those who love the outdoors! Found about eight minutes southwest of the center of Cedar, WildPlay is the Nanaimo area’s premier adventure playground.

Great for the kids and for adults, the main attraction of this amusement park is the bungee jumping, treetop courses, and zip lines, which take participants over the Nanaimo River. WildPlay Nanaimo offers special events and summer adventure camps.

And just as a tip, the cables on the treetop courses can be harsh on your hands, especially on the advanced courses. Bring a pair of gloves—you’ll be thankful you did!

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