The best walks and hikes around Area B (Shawnigan Lake)
4.7
(257)
2,086
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking around Area B (Shawnigan Lake) offers diverse landscapes, from tranquil lake shores to forested paths and elevated viewpoints. The region is characterized by its lush woodlands, featuring cedars, balsams, and sword ferns, alongside the Koksilah River. Trails range from gentle loops around lakes to more challenging ascents leading to panoramic vistas. Notable features include historic railway trestles and hills providing expansive views of Shawnigan Lake and the Saanich Inlet.
Best hiking trails around Area B (Shawnigan Lake)
- The most…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.9
(14)
212
hikers
3.50km
00:56
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.28km
01:25
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(10)
38
hikers
4.91km
01:39
240m
240m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
13
hikers
11.0km
03:00
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
2.07km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Area B (Shawnigan Lake)
Other adventures around Area B (Shawnigan Lake)
Tips from the Community
The trail runs through the Koksilah Ancient Forest Reserve, which protects one of the last remaining stands of old-growth Douglas fir on southern Vancouver Island. The trees here rival Cathedral Grove in beauty and scale. Many measure 1.2 to 1.8 metres in diameter, with the largest exceeding 2.4 metres across and reaching heights of 70 to 80 metres. With less than 1% of these giants remaining on the island after more than a century of logging, to be able to walk among them is a truly rare experience. The trail winds through moss-draped trunks and dense ferns, offering a glimpse of Vancouver Island’s forest as it once was — immense, living, and timeless.
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From the end of the old logging road, the trail slips quickly into dense forest, following faint flagging tape through moss-covered trees and uneven ground. The route narrows almost immediately, with a few eroded edges, fallen logs, and short drop-offs that require attention. Blue tape marks the first section clearly, but flagging becomes sparse deeper in, so it’s wise to keep note of landmarks for the return. The steady downhill leads toward the sound of the Koksilah River — your sign that the old-growth forest isn’t far ahead.
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A decent sized gravel parking area off Koksilah Road. The Koksilah Ancient Forest Trailhead begins near the 8 km mark on Koksilah Road, where a gated logging road branches off and is blocked by rocks marked with pink tape. Most hikers park here and walk uphill about 10 minutes to reach the start of the forest trail, marked with blue flagging tape on the right.
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Information about the Kinsol Trestle can be found on the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) website, including a fact sheet on its history and a brochure. https://www.cvrd.ca/1379/Kinsol-Trestle
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The Kinsol Trestle is an old wooden railway bridge. With a length of 187 metres and a height of 44 metres, it is one of the largest and most spectacular bridges of its type. It was built between 1911 and 1920 to transport timber. After the railway connection was closed in 1979, the bridge was no longer maintained, which is why its condition continued to deteriorate. After extensive renovation, it was reopened to pedestrians and cyclists in 2011. The Trans Canada Trail runs over the bridge.
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Former railway bridge that has been renovated and can only be used as a pedestrian bridge
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An interesting attraction on a trail that can be a bit monotonous.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find in Area B (Shawnigan Lake)?
Area B (Shawnigan Lake) offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from tranquil lakeside paths to forested routes and elevated viewpoints. You can expect lush woodlands with cedars, balsams, and sword ferns, as well as historic features like the Kinsol Trestle. Trails vary from easy strolls to moderate ascents, providing options for different fitness levels.
How many hiking routes are available in Area B (Shawnigan Lake)?
There are over 10 hiking routes available in Area B (Shawnigan Lake). These include 7 easy trails and 4 moderate trails, catering to a wide range of preferences and abilities.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hikes in Area B (Shawnigan Lake)?
Yes, Area B (Shawnigan Lake) is home to several easy and family-friendly hikes. A popular choice is the Spectacle Lake loop from Spectacle Lake Provincial Park, which is an easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) path suitable for all fitness levels. The Kinsol Trestle Trail is also an easy option, offering a unique experience over a historic wooden trestle.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Shawnigan Lake area?
Yes, you can find circular routes in Area B (Shawnigan Lake). For example, the Swing with a view of the lake loop from Old Baldy Mountain offers a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) loop with panoramic views. Another option is the Spectacle Lake loop from Spectacle Lake Provincial Park, which is an easy circular path around the lake.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see while hiking?
Hikers in Area B (Shawnigan Lake) can explore several notable landmarks and natural features. The historic Kinsol Trestle, one of the tallest wooden railway trestles globally, is a significant highlight. You can also enjoy panoramic views of Shawnigan Lake and the Saanich Inlet from elevated points like Old Baldy Mountain. The region is also known for its lush forests and the tranquil Shawnigan Lake itself.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Area B (Shawnigan Lake)?
The trails in Area B (Shawnigan Lake) are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 250 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the unique experience of the Kinsol Trestle, and the rewarding panoramic views from spots like Old Baldy Mountain.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Area B (Shawnigan Lake)?
Area B (Shawnigan Lake) offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. The forested trails, with their abundance of cedars and balsams, provide a cool and enjoyable walk even on sunny days. Summer is particularly popular for those who wish to combine hiking with swimming in Shawnigan Lake.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Yes, several trails in Area B (Shawnigan Lake) provide excellent scenic viewpoints. The Swing with a view of the lake loop from Old Baldy Mountain is specifically known for its panoramic vistas of Shawnigan Lake and the Saanich Inlet after a short, steep ascent.
Are there any trails that follow rivers or through ancient forests?
Yes, you can experience trails that follow rivers and lead through ancient forests. The Koksilah River Ancient Forest Trail is a moderate 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hike that takes you through dense, old-growth woodlands alongside the Koksilah River.
Can I find longer, more moderate hikes in the area?
For those seeking longer, more moderate hikes, Area B (Shawnigan Lake) has options. The Kinsol Trestle loop from Taylor Park is a moderate 6.8-mile (11 km) route that offers an extended exploration of the area, including the famous trestle.
Are there any attractions nearby that can be combined with a hike?
Absolutely. While hiking, you can visit the iconic Kinsol Trestle. The broader Cowichan Valley Trail, which includes sections like the Rainforest Section, also offers opportunities for extended exploration. Additionally, the tranquil Shawnigan Lake itself is a natural attraction perfect for relaxing after a hike.
Most popular routes around Area B (Shawnigan Lake)
Most popular attractions around Area B (Shawnigan Lake)
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