Trail: Coombs-Parksville Railtrail
Distance Walked: 15 km
Walking Time: 3 h 9 m
Difficulty: Very Easy
When preparing to hike the Via Francigena last summer, Richard and I did a dress-rehearsal (inclusive of full backpack and Italian lunch) along the Coombs-Parksville Railtrail. It was one of the highlights of our VF training. So, it only made sense that we include this trail in our COVID-Camino (aka #30hikesin30days).
About the Trail:
The Coombs-Parksville Rail Trail was opened in late 2016. This 3-metre wide, compacted gravel path extends for 7 km (one way) and is fully accessible. It follows the south side of the E&N tracks between Coombs and Parksville. There are numerous entry and exit points, as well as trail markers at each kilometre along the way.
This Trail was made possible by the assistance of Federal Gas Tax Funding. The Regional District of Nanaimo allocated $2.676M. An additional $0.525M was made available from Community Work Funds. I am grateful to live in an area that values and encourages outdoor recreation, and puts money towards these values.
Our Railtrail Experiene:
As this trail runs directly behind the Parksville-Qualicum SPCA, where Richard and I volunteer, we have been on it numerous times before (usually with a dog in-tow). Views from this trail are not as diverse or as stunning as others that we have hiked. However, it is highly likely that you will spot an eagle (or two, or three), as well as hawks and a variety of other birds.
Best of all, this trail is a safe and convenient way to travel between Parksville and Coombs on foot, bike, stroller, mobility scooter or horseback (ATV and motorcycles are not allowed). As soon as you step off the Coombs trail, you are immediately surrounded by funky shops, places to eat/shop/browse…and even goats on a roof (seriously) Now, how can you beat that?
Although we were too early for Italian Lunch at Cuckoos…our timing was just right for coffee and breakfast at Billy Gruff’s Bistro. Perfect!
Five hikes completed. 104,956 steps taken. 25 more hikes to go.
I think I need a nap!
#30hikesin30days
Retirement Reflections 
Hi Donna, What a beautiful trail and I’d love to see eagles and hawks. I passed by Goats on the Roof on my way from Parksville to Tofino. You are doing great with your hike challenge. Cheers!
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Hi, Natalie – The eagles in that area are quite confident. Three of them landed close by to where I was walking which made it easy for me to capture an okay-shot just by using my smartphone. Thank you for continuing to follow along!
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I remember Coombs and the goats! More reasons (as if I needed any) to return to VI as soon as we can.
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Hi, Janis – I like your thinking here. It definitely has my vote! 😀
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You are doing so well and it a challenge can become addictive can’t it, Donna? I’m loving the nature that you are surrounded by. Thank you for sharing and look forward to the next hike tomorrow. xx
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Hi, Sue – Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. It is very motivating, and very much appreciated! 😀
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Hi Donna thanks for linking up at #MLSTL and I’m loving your daily posts on your 30 hikes in 30 days. The photos are stunning. xx
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Thanks, Sue – I greatly appreciate all of the work that you and Leanne do for #MLSTL. It is an awesome community!
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I need a nap keeping up with reading your posts, Donna! Day 5, you are killing it, and you captured an eagle with your lens!! One of my bucket list photos! Pretty area and I’m still chuckling at “COVID-Camino!
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Thanks, Terri – I greatly appreciate your kind words and encouragement. It means a lot!
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I remember that you posted your hikes daily, Donna. As we get nearer to moving north, I’m very interested in seeing the scenery! Your posts are very inspiring to me and most others I’m sure! Keep on truckin’ !
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Thanks, Terri – Thank you for taking the time to give such meaningful feedback. It is very helpful and greatly appreciated.
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Ok I will add this to my list. Haven’t been to Coombs since 1980. This would like it is my kind of trail with minimal chance of getting lost. 😙
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Hi, Ann – You have been to Coombs for 40 years? Stop whatever you are doing and go right now!! Totally tacky, totally a blast. It can’t help but bring a smile to your face. 😀
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That’s a massive step count so far. Coombs looks like a funky place. I love how communities are investing in accessible trails and rail trails are perfect for that.
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Hi, Jo – I share your gratitude in the investment in accessible trails and rail trails. It makes a wonderful difference to a community! ❤ 😀
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I need a nap just reading about it! Pretty cool!
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Thanks, Kate – I totally get that. It is now the morning of Day 6. My mind is saying, “Let’s go!” My body is saying, “First, one more coffee!” 😀
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Maybe two more coffees!
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Your photos are beautiful on this series, Donna. The descriptions are very helpful. Coombs is always fun. We often stop for an ice cream cone since many flavour options. We have not been since this flu, of course. Lots of fun to follow you and Richard along.xx
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Hi, Erica – Oh, I forgot about the ice cream. Definitely a Coombs favourite!! Their cones are HUGE!! 😀
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What a lovely and fun hike! And to be able to access GOTR etc., in Coombs?! Even better. I love seeing all the bald eagles. I see at least 1 flying around every time I sit out on my balcony.
Deb
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Hi, Deb – The eagles out here are incredible. If I want a quick and easy way to ensure that visitors get a good viewing of several eagles, I simply take them on the Coombs trail behind the SPCA. It works like magic every single time! 😀
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What a great hike! Thanks for taking us along, Donna. Coombstock looks like a great place. Great photos!
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Thanks, Jill – I always appreciate your kind and encouraging comments. I greatly appreciate you following along!
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Ah wondered when you’d highlight Coombs as I knew there was a walking trail along there. Isn’t it a cool place?
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Hi, Bernie – Coombs in a VERY COOL place. Such a wonderful place to take visitors. Something for everyone!
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Wow, I’m so impressed by the distance you covered and the natural beauty. Thank you for taking us along. 🙂
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HI, Gwen – Thank you so much for stopping by, reading and commenting. I am off to your site now.
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What a cool trail. Thanks for sharing it with us. #MLSTL
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Hi, Patrick – Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. I greatly appreciate it.
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I’m over on Gabriola Island and was looking to meet a friend from Port Alberni for a walk – this trail sounds ideal. I walked the Portuguese Coastal Camino last year and am determined to walk the Camino Frances next year – if travel restrictions lift! I’m always looking for new trails!
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Hi, Helen – I am delighted to meet a fellow hiker, and Camino Trail walker. My husband and I have walked four Caminos so far (Portugal to SdC, SJPDP to Najera, Najera to SdC and Via Francigena). I have written these trails on this blog. Please do not hesitate to let me know if I can help answer any questions about any of these hikes.
I hope that you and you and your friend enjoy the Coombs Railtrail. Again, not the most scenic views, but easy walking and Coombs is a true blast! 😀
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I salute you and Richard! You two are wonders, that’s what you are. And what a terrific way of dealing with Covid-19.
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Thanks, Laurie – Your comments do truly make me smile. You have a wonderful way with words! 😀
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Hi Donna – your hiking inspires me – and there are so many lovely places around you to do it in! Interesting that you have a rail trail (like Deb has in Tumbarumba) and I found out that there’s one not far from me too – it’s in my one-day list to check it out. Loved that the town was so pretty and that you got to eat out to celebrate at the end.
#MLSTL
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Hi, Leanne – Thank you for your encouragement and your kind words. I greatly appreciate it. Be sure to get out to your local rail trail (and share those photos)! 😀
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This is a fantastic challenge you have set yourselves, and a great idea! Loving your photo’s and descriptions of the hikes too. Now I have come across goats on a roof, but would love to see a few eagles on my hikes 🙂
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Hi, Sam – That’s another reason for you to come out this way. We have eagles galore! 😀
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Hi Donna – those rail trails are brilliant aren’t they – Coombs sounds fun – I drove past … but no stopping. Goat towers … love them and saw them in Portugal and South Africa – fun … totally bemusing, actually! Take care and loving your 30 day challenge – Hilary
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Hi Donna – I hope my comment got through … love those train trails, then Coombs and the goat tower … fun – beautiful views too … all the best – Hilary
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Hi, Hilary – Both of your comments came through. I think that sometimes WP just likes to mess with us. I agree that rail trails are absolutely brilliant. I am very grateful for ours.
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As you know Donna, I’m a rail trail enthusiast and this one looks great!!
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Hi, Deb – Like you, I am extremely grateful for rail trails. Our small town has two different ones. I’ll be sure to include the other one in an upcoming post!
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You 2 are amazing
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Thanks, Antoinette – I greatly appreciate your kind words!
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Fresh air, hawks, wildflowers, mountainous views, and coffee with a handsome man What is not to love about #5 of #30hikesin30days? 1/6th of the way there 💪
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Hi, Lisa – I love the way that you think. So much to be grateful for! ❤
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That looks like a gorgeous trail Donna…. adding some great vistas and bird sightings into the mix and a yummy breakfast, sounds like a perfect day. Happy hiking.
Peta
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Thanks, Peta – Whenever I can work a cafe breakfast into a great hike it makes it feel more and more like a Camino! 😀
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What a fun trail. I like any trail that is easy and has something quirky along the way. Nice that you were able to re-visit it this year.
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Hi, Ally – Quirky is always fun. Coombs is just down the road (and has a great fruit and vegetable stand) so we get there quite frequently….but usually by car! 😀
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Another beautiful trail! And you have sunshine. We got wet today 😟.
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Thanks, Anabel – We’ve also had our share of wet last month. Let’s both keep our fingers crossed for July! 😀
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I’m catching up to all of your daily posts today, Donna. It all looks like fun. Enjoy the beauty. – Marty
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Hi, Marty – Thanks for reading and commenting. Were your ears burning earlier today? I was chatting with Erica and she mentioned how much she enjoyed your posts. (All true!) I hope that all is well for you and Gorgeous!
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Wildlife (and goats on a roof) are worth any distance hiked! 🙂
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Totally agreed, Liesbet.
I hope that all is well for you, Mark and Maya!
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We like to do this one on our bikes, with a stop for lunch in Coombs. It’s a nice easy ride with almost no hills. And as for eagles, we have many of them here on the Island, but you’re guaranteed to see them at the Transfer Station (garbage dump/landfill) that this trail passes by. Last time we also saw vultures.
Jude
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Hi, Jude – I agree that this is also an excellent bike path. And yes, the landfill station is an excellent spot to see eagles, hawks and vultures. Thanks for reading and commenting. I greatly appreciate it!
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