advertise
Vanislander
Vanislander
Vanislander
Vanislander
Vanislander

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve was established in 1996 to preserve special plant species richness and unique and species-rich meadow and woodland ecosystems. Ecological reserves are selected areas in British Columbia to protect specific natural ecosystems, species of plants and animals, features and phenomena. Conservation of physical and biological diversity and genetic materials while allowing for research and educational activities are the primary purposes of ecological reserves.
This ecological reserve protects a minimum of 187 vascular plant species, including 27 rare plant species such as slimleaf onion (Allium amplectins), Howell's violet (Viola howellii), dune bentgrass (Agrostis pallens), Nuttall's quillwort (Isoetes nuttallii), green-sheathed sedge (Carex feta), bog bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus pinnatus) and white-top aster (Aster curtus). It's needed to be mention that Woodley Range Ecological Reserve is closed to the public to protect these species-rich ecosystems.


Woodley Range Ecological Reserve Location

With about 159 hectares (393 acres) area, Woodley Range Ecological Reserve has located 2 km (1.2 miles) north of Ladysmith on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. This area includes several large meadows with shallow soils on cretaceous sandstones that support a glorious spring flora like "Lomatium utriculatum" and "Saxifraga ferruginea" until the dry season of the year. Most of The forests in Woodley Range Ecological Reserve are second-growth Arbutus and Douglas fir forests. This reserve is in the full bloom of "Plectritis congesta" and "Dodecatheon pulchellum." "Lotus pinnatus" and "Fontinalis antipyretica" can be found in wetlands. Ladysmith Bog Ecological Reserve, which is 7.7 km (4.7 miles) far from Woodley Range Ecological Reserve, features spectacular beauties that all need preservation.


How to Get to Woodley Range Ecological Reserve by Car

From Nanaimo:
The fastest route from Nanaimo to Woodley Range Ecological Reserve is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S. It is 23.6 km (14.6 miles) and takes about 25 minutes.
Take Wallace St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S for 550 m (1804.4 ft). Turn right onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S and drive 15.7 km (9.7 miles). Continue on Cedar Rd. Drive to Aho Rd, and after 7.3 km (4.5 miles), you will reach Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.

From Victoria:
The fastest route from Victoria to Woodley Range Ecological Reserve is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. It is 102 km (63.3 miles) and takes about an hour and 25 minutes.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N to Cowichan Valley H. Take the exit towards Yellow Point/Cedar from Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. Drive 93.3 km (58 miles) and continue on Cedar Rd. Drive to Aho Rd, and after 7.2 km (4.4 miles), you will reach Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.


The Hike to Get to Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

There is no designated hiking trail to reach Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.


Things to do around the Woodley Range Ecological Reserve Area

Activities like camping, freshwater fishing, livestock grazing, removal of materials, plants or animals are forbidden by regulation in Woodley Range Ecological Reserve. Nature observation, hiking, and photography are permitted in this reserve. Based on the BC Act, Woodley Range Ecological Reserve is one of the protected areas on Vancouver Island, where you are not allowed to hunt.

The Best Ecological Reserves Near Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve was established in 1996 in Ladysmith to preserve special plant species richness and unique and species-rich meadow and woodland ecosystems. This ecological reserve protects a minimum of 187 vascular plant species, including slimleaf onion, Howell's violet, dune bentgrass, Nuttall's quillwort, and green-sheathed sedge.

Ladysmith Bog Ecological Reserve

Ladysmith Bog Ecological Reserve

Ladysmith Bog Ecological Reserve or Yellow Point Bog Ecological Reserve was established in 1996. The ecological reserve aims to protect the sensitive ecosystem of bog and its scarce plants, forest and the region's well worth biodiversity. Ladysmith Bog Ecological Reserve features a Douglas fir forest and an aquatic-terrestrial interface that are scenic and memorable.

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve Activities

Fishing

You can go fishing in Roberts Memorial Provincial Park, which is 12 km (7.4 miles) far from Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.

Kayaking & Canoeing

For canoeing and kayaking, Hemer Provincial Park is one of the nearest spots. It is 9.6 km (5.9 miles) far from Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.

Swimming

Swimming in Blue Heron Park is possible. It is 9.6 km (5.9 miles) far from Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop is a lovely urban walk along a river with stunningly beautiful nature that promotes a rich forest, a waterfall, and a scenic pond. This easy hiking trail is so well maintained with lots of facilities. Spend hours hiking on this loop as part of the Trans Canada Trail and have a memorable day in the park, great for different kinds of activities.

Hiking on Westwood Lake Trail

Hiking on Westwood Lake Trail

Westwood Lake Trail is not super challenging, but it is a lovely well maintained and well-marked hiking trail around Westwood Lake with beautiful viewpoints and greenery. The forest and lake are full-on herons, eagles and deer with lots of opportunities to have a great time, so bringing your family with you is a decision you will not regret!

Hiking on Cable Bay Nature Trail

Hiking on Cable Bay Nature Trail

Don't hike alone! It is an excellent hike for the whole family and pets. Cable Bay Nature Trail is scenic, easy, clean, and wide enough as a family trail. Not only your family but your pet can accompany you. Get the most out of incredible viewpoints. Hike through the forest near the coast and find a nice rock to take a break, grab a snack, and watch the marine wildlife.

Hiking on the Mount Benson Loop

Hiking on the Mount Benson Loop

Wear your hiking boots! It is going to be a challenging hike that may take about 4 to 5 hours. The lovely amount of elevation with fantastic views is what you can get hiking on the Mount Benson Loop near Nanaimo. As it is located in a reach environment, take lots of breaks to enjoy the area and get enough energy. If you are not ready for wet terrains, try it on a dry and cool day. You would be satisfied as an experienced hiker.

Hiking on the Nanaimo River Trail

Hiking on the Nanaimo River Trail

About 10 kilometres away from downtown Nanaimo, find yourself on an easy and well-marked hiking trail along the Nanaimo River with a smile on your face! It is a great short walk that impresses you differently at each section. Take your dog with you and get it some exercises too, as it is dog off-leash-friendly. You can find such energy there in the area with the Douglas fir plantation.

Nanaimo Diving

Nanaimo Diving

Ranked as the best cold-water diving destination in BC, Nanaimo waters are saturated with new diving experiences. BC Ferries, dive shops, accessible shores, and the chance to observe cute beaches have made Nanaimo an ideal destination for visitors. Diving enthusiasts find themselves in the heavens when they come to Nanaimo, for it is home to spotless diving spots.

Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching

Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching

For those marine life lovers, Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching is a great opportunity. Participants can ride boats and surf the surrounding waters with the chance to explore the area and observe whales living near Nanaimo due to the high population of orcas and whales around there.

Protection Island Ferry Whale Watching

Protection Island Ferry Whale Watching

Protection Island Ferry provides its participants with high chances of watching whales and other marine creatures, along with the scenic view of three spectacular islands. You may also rent a boat to surf the water, and if you are in luck, encounter these gigantic marine beasts.

Nanaimo Whale Watching

Nanaimo Whale Watching

On Vancouver Island, you can spend every single day arriving in a new city comprising magnificent adventures. While you stay in the second-largest city on the island, you may enjoy several incredible activities, including whale watching. Whale watching in Nanaimo gives you the chance to explore the Salish Sea ecosystem and observe marine life from April-October.

Shawnigan Lake Kayaking and Canoeing

Shawnigan Lake Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are a paddling enthusiast and happen to visit Vancouver Island during summer times, put Shawnigan Lake on top of your list. The lake is enclosed with fabulous parks in which you are provided with tons of recreational activities. Lakeside cabins, several beaches and a spectacular shoreline make Shawnigan Lake a fantastic hot spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are trying to get away from your lethal daily routine and your adventure flow has been stopped, why don't you plan a trip to the only multi-functional port city on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo? An assemblage of several distinguished bodies of water has made Nanaimo one of the best paddling locations in the world. You are provided with tons of other activities on both land and the sea.

Ladysmith Kayaking

Ladysmith Kayaking

Exceptional opportunities to explore the water while enjoying the scenic view of a city with a hundred years of history and culture preserved within the realms of Ladysmith. as an ideal kayaking destination, Ladysmith has several offerings to make your stay even more joyful. So, pack your bags and hit the road to this beautiful old city.

The wreck of the Robert Kerr Diving

The wreck of the Robert Kerr Diving

Get out of your comfort zone and go diving in one extraordinary place with quite a history behind it. The wreck of the Robert Kerr is the graveyard of a ship that sank about 200 years ago. Still, now it is a habitat for several marine creatures and offers excellent opportunities to dive deep and explore the underwater world.

Elliot's Beach Park Diving

Elliot's Beach Park Diving

Make your time on Vancouver Island count and go diving in Elliot's Beach Park. It is a pristine diving location for professional diving, but it has opportunities to discover underwater for ordinary folks.

Boeing 737 Jet Plane Diving

Boeing 737 Jet Plane Diving

You cannot believe your ears are hearing a diving place made after a Jet Plane was sunk. But, there is only one way to find out, especially for divers who like abnormal experiences. While you are in Chemainus, you can rent a boat and paddle till you reach this place, offering you unbelievable diving opportunities.

Woodley Range Ecological Reserve Outline

Specifications

Climate

Timing

Trails


1. The numbers are estimated on average for Ladysmith, which is 2 km (1.2 miles) south of Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.


What you Can Expect to See Near Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Duncan

Duncan

The city of Duncan is famous for its totem collection. Duncan's tourist attractions and activities include shops and restaurants, great vineyards, kayaking the rivers and ocean, hiking the Trans Canada Trail, or the farmers' market. The city offers Cowichan Performing Arts Centre with amazing shows, restaurants, pubs, and Duncan Showroom (a live music venue) for entertainment.

Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan is a town east of Cowichan Lake, the second most untouched lake in BC. The town is west of the Trans Canada Trail, the longest recreational and multi-use trail network globally. Lake Cowichan has a beautiful mountainous area with plentiful wildlife and is a perfect place for outdoor adventures. Lake Cowichan has warm waters and a sandy beach for a family swim.

Ladysmith

Ladysmith

Ladysmith is a historic town famous for monuments, battlefields, and memorials commemorating. Tourism in Ladysmith is based on natural beauties like waterfall, great parks, scenic hiking trails, and fun-filled events suitable for all ages. The best time to visit is from mid-July to mid-August. Enjoy many good restaurants and pubs where you can have a drink or a nice meal.

Nanaimo Lakes

Nanaimo Lakes

It takes a short drive to Nanaimo Lakes south of Nanaimo. The pristine nature gives you a chance to stay away from technology. It is tranquil and peaceful around the lakes with scenic spots in the forest, great for a long walk or camping. The warm lake water makes it a fantastic spot for swimming and kayaking. Mountain climbing, hiking, and fishing are other possibilities.

Colliery Dam Park

Colliery Dam Park

Colliery Dam Park with Chase River, huge trees, Granny Falls, and two small ponds is a tranquil and wooded park. The spectacular views with some nice bridges make the park a good choice for photographers. It is possible to walk your dog off-leash at the upper dam. You can go hiking, seasonal swimming, boating, and fishing for rainbow trout.

Maffeo Sutton Park

Maffeo Sutton Park

Maffeo Sutton Park is a waterfront park with a perfect view of Nanaimo Harbour. It is a family park mainly known for its nice walking trails, playground, and picnicking areas. Swy-A-Lana Lagoon Fishing Pier is a nice spot located southeast of the park for fishing and swimming. This scenic oceanside park's Lions Pavilion Stage hosts community and musical events.

Nanaimo River

Nanaimo River

The Nanaimo River, with warm water and deep pools, is an excellent choice for swimming. It has lagoons for a family picnic or day trail and a rocky beach for kids to play in, and for you to lay on some large rocks. From April to June, and in September or October, test your fishing skill in the river for cutthroat and rainbow trout. Have the pleasure of hiking in trails and take some pictures.

Beaufort Park

Beaufort Park

Beaufort Park is a year-round destination in Nanaimo. Each season's nature and wildlife diversity make eye-catching scenery for visitors, so take a camera with you. A multi-purpose court suitable for sports like basketball and pickleball, and a tennis court are available. There are also a community garden and a food forest, and a dog off-leash area.

Pipers Lagoon Park

Pipers Lagoon Park

Pipers Lagoon Park is a waterfront park with Shack Island, the ocean, and Neck Point Park views. Stay there for sunrise and sunset, and don't miss watching the scene. The park is home to bird species and other animals, making it a perfect destination for wildlife photographers. Hiking and jogging, beachcombing, flying a kite, and doing water sports are other options.

Bowen Park

Bowen Park

It seems that all you need is available at Bowen Park; a waterfall, duck pond, wilderness and picnic areas, and lots of facilities and sports fields. The Millstone River passes through the park, where can be considered as your hiking trail. The duck pond and a beautiful rhododendron grove with more than 350 species are amusing. Be there for some exercise or relaxation in the woods.

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay is known as a place to relax with its large pebble beach, somewhere between Nanaimo and Parksville. The scene is stunning, specifically in the evening when the sun meets the ocean. No matters how many times you visited the beach, it is always peaceful and attractive. Nanoose Bay is home to many sea animals, and the beach is perfect for digging up some clams.

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Walking from the ferry terminal to downtown Nanaimo, you can find a beautiful small garden, Chinese Memorial Gardens Park. A small public park with full-grown shrubs and trees and gracious lawns performs as a relaxing spot. The painted, formed pagoda structure and carved stones decorated it. The scenery is eye-catching and is mainly used for the background of family portraits.

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park is a beachfront park with some lookout spots where land meets the ocean. It is a popular choice for photography, hiking, scuba diving, and historic and scenic features. Fishing, paddling, and swimming are other options you have to entertain yourself. This waterfront park has awesome sea life; also, you can see bunnies very commonly.

Beach Estates Park

Beach Estates Park

If you plan to be away from urban life and spend hours in the woods watching wildlife and get relaxed, take a visit to Beach Estates Park, west of Departure Bay. With a beautiful designated hiking trail, Beach Estates Park is interesting for hikers and runners. The park's nature includes a lush forest with magnificent tall trees, a small river, a rocky beach, and Beach Estates Falls.

Westwood Lake Park

Westwood Lake Park

Silence is wiser than speech in nature. To get this atmosphere with a scenic view near Nanaimo and to have an excellent family time, Westwood Lake Park is a smart year-round choice. It is a perfect place with a playground for kids, an off-leash area, and a lifeguard patrolled freshwater swimming site. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and boating are other adventures to take.

Planning for Woodley Range Ecological Reserve

Suitability

Camping & Resort

Services

Terms and Conditions



1. Consumptive activities like camping, freshwater fishing, hunting, livestock grazing, removal of materials, plants or animals are forbidden by regulation in Woodley Range Ecological Reserve.
2. Motorized vehicles are not allowed.
3. Research and educational activities may be carried out but only under permit.

What Do You Think about Woodley Range Ecological Reserve?