Gift an incredible experience of exploring the natural wonders of Cowichan. From hiking through old-growth forests to mountain biking on world-class singletrack trails to paddling the craggy coastal shores, there’s an expedition for all the adventurous hearts on your shopping list.
Experience Wildlife
From the skies to the ocean, wildlife enthusiasts have a lot to experience in Cowichan. Pick up passes to the Raptor Centre to get up close with birds of prey — for an added bonus, take the birder in your family on a close encounter or a Hawk Walk! On the waters, book a whale watching tour with Ocean Ecoventures in Cowichan Bay and look for our resident Orcas and other stunning marine wildlife.
Have A Wild Adventure
Gift the incredible views of Cowichan’s newest attraction, the Malahat Skywalk. Perched 250 metres above the Saanich Inlet, visitors get a remarkable view across the Saanich Peninsula and beyond. Fearless visitors can step into the sky to lounge on the 84 metre-tall hammock then glide to the base on the spiral slide!
Down at sea level, plan a wild excursion for your adventurous friends with Coastal Bliss Adventures. They offer an incredible range of guided tours from multi-day backpacking, canoe portaging, ocean kayaking and base camp exploring. So make 2022 their most adventurous year yet!
Gear Up
Being prepared for the west coast winter can mean being ready for wind, rain, sun or snow all on the same day. Safety gear and technical clothing are a must-have for outdoor disciplines of all kinds. Backcountry hikers and sport fishers can get geared up at Bucky’s Sports Shop in Duncan. Trail and road runners can find a wide selection of shoes, supplies and expert knowledge at Cowichan Valley Running in Mill Bay. Cowichan Cycles is moving to their new location on December 1st, so you’ll want to check out their new digs while picking up some gear for your favourite mountain biker. Finally, Beyond the Usual in Chemainus is perfect for the all-around city-to-nature surf-to-skate adventurer.
Trail Karma
Outdoor enthusiasts know that many favourite spots wouldn’t be maintained or accessible without the work of local trail stewards. Annual memberships help keep trails in tip-top shape and build new routes. Purchase your explorer a donation or a membership to the Cowichan Trail Stewardship Society or the Cowichan Lake Trail Blazers to boost their trail karma!
We’re excited to include this article as part of our Holiday Gift Guide! For more gifting inspiration, check out our full Holiday Gift Guide here.
