advertise
Vanislander / Activities / Cycling / Cowichan Valley Trail

Cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail

Ever wondered what it feels like to pedal through a landscape where history and nature intertwine? Cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail delivers that magic. As part of the Trans Canada Trail, this multi-use trail on Southern Vancouver Island winds through lush forests, past vineyards, and alongside the Cowichan River, offering best bike trails Cowichan Valley Trail for all skill levels. Cross the majestic Kinsol Trestle, pause at Skutz Falls, or savor a picnic by Lake Cowichan—the trail’s Cowichan Valley bike loop has it all. This comprehensive guide explores the cycling routes Cowichan Valley Trail, practical planning, and cultural gems, ensuring your ride is as enriching as it is exhilarating.

Getting to Lake Cowichan

From Nanaimo, drive 60 km south on Highway 1 to Duncan’s Cowichan Valley Museum, the trail’s start.
From Victoria, it’s 60 km north. For the Kinsol Trestle trailhead, follow Cowichan Valley trail directions from Shawnigan Lake village.

More

Less

History of Cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail

The The Cowichan Valley Trail traces its roots to the Canadian Northern Pacific Railway, which carved through the Cowichan Valley in the early 20th century. By the 1950s, rail traffic dwindled, leaving behind a flat, 2% grade ideal for cycling. In the late 20th century, the Capital Regional District transformed this abandoned line into a multi-use trail on Southern Vancouver Island, integrating it into the Trans Canada Trail, a 24,000 km national network. This shift marked a new era for cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail, turning industrial relics into recreational treasures.
 A defining moment came in 2011 with the restoration of the Historic Kinsol Trestle. Built in 1920, this 187-meter wooden trestle over the Koksilah River had fallen into disrepair, marred by fire and decay. Community efforts revived it, making it a centerpiece of the trail and a symbol of the valley’s dedication to preserving its heritage. The trail’s history, from Duncan’s origins as “Duncan’s Crossing” in 1886 to its modern role as a cycling haven, enriches every ride, blending Quw’utsun’ cultural significance with settler stories. traces its roots to the Canadian Northern Pacific Railway, which carved through the Cowichan Valley in the early 20th century. By the 1950s, rail traffic dwindled, leaving behind a flat, 2% grade ideal for cycling. In the late 20th century, the Capital Regional District transformed this abandoned line into a multi-use trail on Southern Vancouver Island, integrating it into the Trans Canada Trail, a 24,000 km national network. This shift marked a new era for cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail, turning industrial relics into recreational treasures.
A defining moment came in 2011 with the restoration of the Historic Kinsol Trestle. Built in 1920, this 187-meter wooden trestle over the Koksilah River had fallen into disrepair, marred by fire and decay. Community efforts revived it, making it a centerpiece of the trail and a symbol of the valley’s dedication to preserving its heritage. The trail’s history, from Duncan’s origins as “Duncan’s Crossing” in 1886 to its modern role as a cycling haven, enriches every ride, blending Quw’utsun’ cultural significance with settler stories.

More

Less

Geography and Terrain

The Cowichan Valley Trail spans a vibrant tapestry of Southern Vancouver Island’s landscapes, offering a sensory journey for cyclists. Its Cowichan Valley Trail length of approximately 60 km (out-and-back from Duncan to Lake Cowichan) follows an old rail grade, ensuring a gentle 2% gradient that’s among the best bike trails Cowichan Valley Trail for accessibility.
Key features include: 1.Forested Canopies: Douglas firs and cedars line the trail, their shade cooling riders as sunlight filters through. The earthy aroma of pine enhances the immersive experience. 2.Riverside Vistas: Paralleling the Cowichan River, the trail offers glimpses of sparkling waters, with opportunities to spot salmon or bald eagles soaring above. 3.Meadows and Farmland: Open fields burst with wildflowers, framed by distant peaks like Mount Prevost and Mount Tzouhalem, creating postcard-worthy views. 4.Kinsol Trestle: The trail’s crown jewel, this 187-meter trestle arches over the Koksilah River, blending engineering marvel with natural beauty.
 The terrain is primarily well-groomed gravel, with some paved sections near Duncan. A short, muddy stretch near the Kinsol Trestle adds minor challenge, but the trail remains very beginner friendly. Whether you’re on the Cowichan Valley bike loop or a shorter segment, the landscape captivates with its diversity and tranquility.

More

Less

Types of Cycling Available

Cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail accommodates a range of riding styles, each highlighting the trail’s unique charm:
Leisure Cycling: The trail’s flat, gravel surface, spanning a 12.7-mile out-and-back trail from Duncan to Lake
Cowichan, is perfect for families and casual riders. Its scenic bike paths make it a top choice for relaxed outings. Bikepacking: The 190km figure-eight bikepacking route, incorporating both sides of the Cowichan River, appeals to adventurers seeking multi-day journeys through the valley’s heart.
 Mountain Biking: While not technical, the trail’s gravel and occasional muddy patches offer a light mountain biking Cowichan Valley Trail experience for off-road enthusiasts.
 These options ensure the best cycling routes Cowichan Valley Trail cater to novices and seasoned riders alike, set against a backdrop of lush wilderness.

More

Less

Vancouver Island Activities

Camping in French Beach Provincial Park Campground

Camping in French Beach Provincial Park Campground

Within the territory of T'sou-ke first nation, French Beach Provincial Park Campground is a beautiful heavenly campground that allows you to record unforgettable memories. Call your dreams of camping a plane while camping in this campground; while it has ample facilities and incredible scenery, you cannot get enough of it.

Florencia Bay Surfing

Florencia Bay Surfing

Start your surfing diary on Florencia Bay Beach, a fairly exposed shoreline that provides exciting and consistent surfing opportunities. Waves that come from different directions and hit the sandy beach and their quality are the prime triggers for you to start your surfing journey on this beach. The usual mellow waves are exceptional and fantastic, and they have made this beach a perfect place for surfing.

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast Trail

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast Trail

Hiking on the entire East Sooke Coastal Trail is an experience not to be missed! This beautiful trail is a mix of the fantastic coast and beautiful greenery. Hiking boots are required! The route takes you along bluffs and cliffs by the Pacific Ocean that worth it for the views. This well-marked trail can take full-day hiking in East Sooke Regional Park.

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

As one of the best tourist attractions of Sooke and Vancouver Island, West Coast comprises many outdoor excitements that cannot be denied. You are provided with different wildlife to watch and various food to eat, not to mention that you observe a rare nature that is outstanding. So, chances are high to see different whales and other marine creatures.

Fair Harbour Kayaking

Fair Harbour Kayaking

Give rewards to yourself for working hard all week and plan to visit Fair Harbour to kill kayaking opportunities. Fair Harbour is an oceanic kayaking zone with all the necessary equipment to surf the water. Besides, you can find great recreational locations around and check all the activities on your to-do list.

Kyuquot Sound Surfing

Kyuquot Sound Surfing

Rebuild your imagination about surfing while you are having a great time in the Kyuquot Sound area, an area of world-class beaches and reefs. Featuring amazing natural scenery which can cheer you up while you are skimming the surface of the water. The beautiful sandy beach features an eye-catching view that can trigger you to camp and surf on one of the largest campsites on Vancouver Island.

Botanical Beach Storm Watching

Botanical Beach Storm Watching

Let the magnificent storms in Botanical Beach touch your souls. The fabulous beach known for its wonderful intertidal sea life has majestic waves during the windy seasons, making it a popular destination for those fond of storm watching. Try to visit this beach at low tide to enjoy seeing lovely sea-life creatures.

Mount Washington Snowshoeing

Mount Washington Snowshoeing

Being the busiest winter recreational destination in BC, Mount Washington provides you with incredible winter activities, including snowshoeing. While you are on the snow, enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Strait of Georgia and the Sunshine Coast from Powell River to Sechelt. Moreover, several nearby resorts are ready to offer service to visitors annually.

Clover Point Storm Watching

Clover Point Storm Watching

Just a short walk from Victoria, Clover Point is hit by great storms, and there are fabulous opportunities to watch roaring storms. During falls and winters, protect and enjoy the fierce waves making up in the distance, rolling into the coast, battering against the rocks, whether staying at your car or donning in raingear.

Wall Beach Diving

Wall Beach Diving

Don't just listen to people talking about Wall Beach. Come and see how beautiful this sea lion habitat is. Incredible diving opportunities are provided for both armature and professional divers. The chance to see several diverse marine life there is Wall Beach adds up to the reasons why one should come to this spectacular beach.

Route Descriptions

Cycling in Victoria offers routes for every rider, from gentle urban loops to rugged coastal treks. Below, we detail four iconic options—Beacon Hill Park Loop, Victoria Shoreline Ride, Saanich Peninsula Tour, and Coastline Cruise—covering type, difficulty, distance, elevation, terrain, and highlights. These are among the best cycling routes Victoria has to offer, perfect for your Victoria cycling route map.
Explore these via cycling tours Victoria or solo—each offers a unique slice of Victoria cycling.


Aspect

Details

Length

60 km (out-and-back, Duncan to Lake Cowichan)

Difficulty

Easy, flat 2% grade

Surface

Mostly gravel, some paved sections near Duncan

Key Attraction

Historic Kinsol Trestle (187 m long)

Best Season

May-September (15-25°C, dry)

Parking

Free at Cowichan Valley Museum, Kinsol Trestle trailhead

Bike Rentals

$30-$60/day in Duncan (Cycle BC)

Cultural Stops

Duncan totem poles, Cowichan Valley Museum, Cowichan Bay

On the Cowichan Valley Trail

  • Distance: 60 km / 37 mi

  • Level: Easy

  • Terrain: Gravel, flat (2% grade)

  • Highlights: Cowichan River, Skutz Falls, Saywell Park

  • Description: Starting at the Cowichan Valley Museum in Duncan, this cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail route follows a well-groomed gravel path along the Cowichan River. Cross trestles like Holmes Creek and Mile 66, with a detour to Skutz Falls (3 km off-trail). The trail ends at Saywell Park by Lake Cowichan, perfect for a picnic. Its flat terrain makes it a top beginner cycling routes Cowichan Valley Trail choice.

Your Adventure Starts with Vancouver Island Tours

Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

One-Day Chinook Salmon & Halibut Adventure Tour
Group
Victoria
Sooke
from 1,140
2 days and one night
Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Guided Fishing Adventure Tour on Port Renfrew Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Port Renfrew
from 1,475
3 days and 2 nights
Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

5-Day Black Bear Tracking Adventure on Vancouver Island
Group
Nanaimo
Nanaimo
from 1,135
5 days and 4 nights
Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

Vancouver Island Wildlife watching Tour

Explore Whales, Bears & Coastal Rainforests
Group
Victoria
Tofino
from 750
3 nights and 4 days
Vancouver Island Wildlife watching  Tour

Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Gold River
Group
Campbell River
Gold River BC
from 1,400
1 day
Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

6-day Black Bear Wildlife Adventure Tour
Group
Nanaimo
Vancouver Island
from 1,950
6 days and 5 nights
Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

Wildlife, Beaches & Coastal Adventure
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,813
7 days and 6 nights
Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Your 7-Day Wildlife Watching Escape
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,310
7 days and 6 nights
7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

5-Day Tour from Victoria to Tofino with Nanaimo
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,100
6 days and 5 nights
Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Coastal Wonders & Wildlife Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 700
5 days and 4 nights
5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Sea Lions & Eagles Adventure

Experience an Unforgettable Half-Day Adventure in the Heart of Fanny Bay
Group
Nanaimo
from 2,850
1 day
Sea Lions & Eagles Adventure

3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Salish Sea Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 550
3 days and 2 nights
3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Explore Inner Harbour & Catch Inshore Fish
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,000
2 days and one night
Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Your three Day Victoria Whale Watching Getaway on Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,138
3 days and 2 night
 A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Pacific Rim & Clayoquot Sound Adventure
Group
Nanaimo
Tofino
from 1,897
4 days and 3 nights
4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Preparing for Your Cycling Trip on the Cowichan Valley Trail

Gear and Equipment 

To fully enjoy cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail, equip yourself with:
 Bike: A hybrid or gravel bike is ideal for the mixed gravel and paved surfaces. For longer routes like the 190km figure-eight bikepacking route, ensure a sturdy frame. Rentals in Duncan or Lake Cowichan cost $30-$60/day.
Helmet: Mandatory under BC law; choose a certified, snug fit.
Clothing: Layer for variable weather—breathable fabrics for summer, waterproof for winter. Bright colors enhance visibility.
Accessories: Carry a repair kit (pump, spare tube, tire levers), water bottle, and snacks. A GPS or Cowichan Valley Trail map is essential for navigation.
Lights: Use front and rear lights for early morning or evening rides, especially in forested sections.

More

Less

Physical Preparation

 Prepare for the trail’s demands:
 Endurance: For the 60 km out-and-back, practice 20-30 km rides to build stamina.
Strength: Minimal hill training is needed due to the flat terrain, but leg exercises like squats help for longer rides. Flexibility: Stretch to prevent cramps, especially for bikepacking routes.

More

Less

Booking and Logistics

Parking: Use Cowichan Valley trail parking at the museum or Kinsol Trestle trailhead on Glen Eagles Road. Accommodations: Book hotels or B&Bs in Duncan or Lake Cowichan ($100-$200/night). Summer reservations fill quickly.
Bike Rentals: Local shops in Duncan offer rentals; contact Cycle BC or similar for availability.

More

Less

Safety Protocols

Ensure a safe ride with these cycling safety tips:
Trail Etiquette: Stay right, signal passing with a bell or “on your left,” and yield to pedestrians on this multi-use trail.
Road Safety: On paved sections near Duncan, wear bright clothing and use lights for visibility.
Emergency Preparedness: Carry a phone; dial 911 for emergencies. Note spotty cell service in remote areas, as mentioned in Cowichan Valley Trail reviews.
Navigation: Use a Cowichan Valley Trail map to avoid straying onto private land.

More

Less

What you Can Expect to See Near Cowichan valley trail

Tahsis

Tahsis

Tahsis is an accessway to many hiking trails. This village municipality is situated at the top of the steep-sided Tahsis Inlet and is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness and abundant wildlife. Some of the best water activities like ocean kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, recreational fishing or sport fishing, scuba diving, and kiteboarding are popular.

Sutton Range

Sutton Range

The Sutton Range is a group of mountains and a subrange of the Vancouver Island Ranges that form the greater Insular Mountains. The amazing rock formation and alpine scale make the mountains within the range perfect for climbing. While you're atop Sutton Peak, Victoria Peak, Warden Peak, and mainland coast mountains are within your sight.

Sophia Range

Sophia Range

The Sophia Range is a low small group of mountains on Nootka Island. Visiting the range would be fascinating overlooking inlets. The spectacular sights of the hills wrapped in trees ornamented with beautiful wildlife and birds are amazing while ascending. The range and the nearby park are a wealth of outdoor activities as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Artlish Caves

Artlish Caves

As it is said, "A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence." Did you know it takes a long process for a cave to be created? Artlish Caves is no exception. It is the largest active river cave in Canada, and the running water is why these series of caves were carved out from the ground, which is still happening. While you are inside the caves, sharpen your eyes to find bats, spiders, and other creatures in the darkness.

Coral Cave

Coral Cave

If you desire to search for hidden parts of nature to discover exciting facts, Coral Cave is a suitable option. Before stepping into it, you need to have caving skills. The beauty of the cave is doubled by the stunning rainforest that surrounded the entrance. While you are inside, you may see the flooded parts of the cave. Let's get into it to find more and realize the time effect for thousands or millions of years.

Thanksgiving Cave

Thanksgiving Cave

Devote more time, get a challenging goal for yourself, and pack your equipment. It is time to face the longest and deepest cave on Vancouver Island, Thanksgiving Cave. Caving inside this mostly tight and beautiful cave is not a beginner's suitable exploration, but for an expert caver, the adventurers' rush worth any trouble. If you are a beginner, don't worry. Tahsis is the caving capital of Canada, so you have different chances nearby.

Upana Caves

Upana Caves

Going deep into the forest is worthy enough to visit the stunning Upana Caves. Listen to the sound of a river passing by and detect several entrances with the famous one behind the spectacular Upana Caves Waterfall. Inside entrances, you may find birds' nests. Watch the evidence of years of existence by holes like the one in cheese. The stunning galleries and passages you'll explore while going down would be incredible.

Genevieve Range

Genevieve Range

The Genevieve Range offers a fascinating tour within Nootka Island with spectacular sights for mountaineers. The range's area is a remote paradise for those seeking peace and seclusion. While ascending peaks, the range allows breath-taking sights of the ocean, enormous trees below your feet covering hills along with lakes and creeks dotted the area and plenty of wildlife.

Haihte Range

Haihte Range

The Haihte Range overlooking Tahsis and Zeballos is home to some of the largest remaining glaciers on Vancouver Island. It experiences many cloudy days due to being close to the coast. The high terrain, including long aesthetic lines, is perfect for skiing at the lower glacier shelves, and visitors would enjoy excellent alpine climbing at jagged spires along the main ridge.

Best Time to Visit the Cowichan Valley Trail

Planning your cycling trip on the Cowichan Valley Trail requires an understanding of seasonal conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. Below is a detailed table outlining the optimal times to visit this multi-use trail on Southern Vancouver Island, based on weather conditions, trail accessibility, and key considerations.

Notes:

Trail Overview: The Cowichan Valley Trail is a 60 km out-and-back gravel trail from Duncan to Lake Cowichan, part of the Trans Canada Trail. It is flat (2% grade), beginner-friendly, and features the Historic Kinsol Trestle.

Year-Round Access: Unlike some hiking trails, the Cowichan Valley Trail remains open year-round as a multi-use trail. However, conditions vary significantly by season, with May to September being the prime cycling period.
Weather Patterns: Summers (May to September) offer warm, dry days (15-25°C), ideal for cycling. Winters
 (November to March) are cooler (5-10°C) and wetter, making the trail muddier and more challenging, though still rideable with proper gear.

Peak Season: July and August are the busiest months due to optimal weather, increasing demand for bike rentals and accommodations in Duncan and Lake Cowichan.

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Variable; cooler temperatures (15-18°C) with increased rainfall

Open; some sections may be muddy

Less crowded; bring waterproof gear for rain

June

Mild temperatures (18-22°C); moderate rainfall

Open; generally accessible

Increasing number of cyclists; moderate weather

July

Warmer temperatures (20-25°C); drier conditions

Open; ideal cycling conditions

Peak season; book rentals and lodging early

August

Warm temperatures (20-25°C); drier conditions

Open; excellent cycling conditions

Peak season; high demand for rentals and lodging

September

Cooling temperatures (18-20°C); increased rainfall

Open; some sections may be muddy

Fewer cyclists; prepare for variable weather

Frequently Asked Questions About Cowichan valley trail

A detailed map of the Cowichan Valley Trail is available from the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) website. The CVRD provides a downloadable PDF map that covers the entire trail, including key access points, parking areas, and notable landmarks like the Kinsol Trestle. Visit the CVRD’s “Parks and Trails” section at cvrd.ca to download the latest version. Additionally, Tourism Cowichan offers printable trail guides with highlighted routes and points of interest. For offline use, these PDF maps are ideal for planning your trip and navigating the 12.7-mile out-and-back sections or the broader 190km figure-eight bikepacking route.
Profile Picture

Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

Festivals & Events: Don't Miss Out!

What Do You Think about