Overview
Popular wildlife activities in Cowichan include guided whale-watching tours with Ocean Ecoventures and professional flying demonstrations at the Pacific Northwest Raptors. But there are also many self-guided wildlife viewing opportunities as well.
Spot Roosevelt Elk (found only on Vancouver Island) near Lake Cowichan and Youbou, or visit one of many bird watching areas and nature estuaries.
Enjoy seeing the prolific marine life in the waters of the Salish Sea: watch harbour seals and sea lions lounging on the docks and spot wildlife from the deck of a charter boat or while cruising the quiet waters of Cowichan’s many bays and inlets in a kayak.
Bamberton Provincial Park
Learn moreThe inviting water and the 225 metre long sandy beach have made Bamberton Park an ideal spot for visitors.
Blue Heron Park
Learn moreEnjoy spectacular ocean views from this seasidepark located in Yellow Point, near Ladysmith.
Bright Angel Park
Learn moreTranquil, forested trails with the stunning Koksilah River flowing under Cowichan’s most popular suspension bridge.
Bute Island Regional Park
Learn moreIsland in Ladysmith Harbour with stunning views of the neighboring Gulf Islands and scenic mountains.
Coastal Bliss Adventures
Learn moreEcotourism adventures, guided hikes, and kayaking and canoeing tours based in Cowichan Bay.
Cobble Hill Mountain Recreation Area
Learn morePopular destination for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, made up of 26 kilometers of trails.
Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre
Learn moreAn interpretive nature centre with hands-on learning for all ages about birds, marine life, the Cowichan Estuary, and its watershed.
Cowichan River Provincial Park
Learn moreCamp, hike, fish, and paddle at the Cowichan River Park located along a designated heritage river.
Cowichan Valley Trail
Learn moreSpectacular multi-use trail that is an integral part of the Trans Canada Trail on Southern Vancouver Island.
Gordon Bay Provincial Park
Learn moreFor a great family camping vacation, head to Gordon Bay Park, located on the shores of Lake Cowichan.
Heart Lake Trail
Learn moreSteep climb that ends at a peaceful lake, offering spectacular views of Ladysmith and the Gulf Islands.
Holland Creek Trail
Learn moreThis trail winds 5.8 kilometers along both sides of Holland Creek in Ladysmith.
Explore
Along with the authentic Indigenous culture Cowichan offers, check out what other quirky and unexpected things there are.
Explore Cowichan