There’s nowhere better to get outside than Nanaimo where nature is around every corner waiting to be explored and enjoyed.

What other location offers such a variety of trails for hiking? From a gentle stroll along the waterfront walkway, where you can stop to admire the view and say hello to passers-by, to ocean side parks where the trails meander through woodland and over rocky formations. A challenging vertical hike to the jaw-dropping 360 views at the top of Mount Benson, to a ramble alongside a Salmon habitat stream.

If you have 30 minutes or the entire day, there’s always somewhere to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenery.

For those who prefer to have some action in their outdoor adventures, multiple golf courses, as well as disc golf courses, offer the chance to practice your skills. More thrills can tackle heart-pounding challenges like tree-top adventure courses, zip lining and bungy jumping at WildPlay Nanaimo.

Nanaimo is a mecca for cycling enthusiasts with an enviable network of well-maintained mountain bike trails in the foothills of Mount Benson. Extensive cycle route networks run the length of the city and throughout the downtown core for cycle commuters and day-trippers to cruise. For those cyclists who prefer speed bumps and tricks, the Stevie Smith Bike Park is a BMX dream.

Explore Nanaimo’s outdoor adventures on your own time, or sign up for a tour or adventure with one of the businesses below.

Outdoor Adventure Businesses

West Coast Helicopters
Tracks Outdoor Adventures INC
Nanaimo Golf Club
BCeBike
ATV Adventure
McNabs Corn Maze & Produce Farm
Thrills & Skills Cycling
WildPlay Element Parks
Sunshine Coast Air
Fairwinds Golf Club
Vancouver Island Expeditions
Morning Star Bison Ranch
Hub City Cycles
Harbour Air Seaplanes
Wildwood – Ecoforestry Institute Society
Cottonwood Golf Course
Saysutshun Island (Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park)
City of Nanaimo Parks & Recreation
Eaglequest Golf Centre