South Vancouver Island Nature Trails Society

Southern Vancouver Island has an abundance of natural surface trails; however, these trails are currently not coordinated or even connected to each other, thereby missing out on the huge opportunity to create a comprehensive world class network of trails that could ultimately become as famous as the West Coast Trail, the Grouse Grind, or the Kettle Valley Railway.

The Nature Trails Society will work with land owners, municipalities, Parks & Recreation, the CRD and other industry partners to secure access and authorization to specific cross regional trail corridors and connections ensuring the most effective trail system is created to accommodate all users: hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, dog walkers, horseback riders, commuting cyclists and families.

Connecting these trails has been likened to building an “arena” for sporting events such as Canada Cup Mountain Bike Races, XC trail running races, the multi stage BC Bike Race, and Cross on the Rock Cyclocross. These events bring in hundreds of participants as well as their spectating families for multi day stays and the larger more international events bring international exposure to our destination.

Benefits of this connected trail network are vast: increased visitation to our parks, healthier communities, increased variety of trails to enjoy for all, more connected communities, environmental stewardship, international recognition as an outdoor adventure destination and economic development opportunities for business close to the network.