ORCA Trail Runs

Several members of ORCA enjoy trail running. The areas in and around Oceanside provide an abundance of beautiful trails. If you are interested in trail running, reach out to any members during our run sessions for feedback. Currently, many of these runs are spontaneous and loosely organized.

There is a regularly scheduled trail run on Monday mornings. See the Monday Trail run page for details.

Where

There are numerous great locations for trail running such as:

• Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park – Easy
• Hammerfest trails near Englishman River Provincial Park – easy, moderate and difficult
• Arbutus Woods and Laburnum Woods – easy to moderate
• Coombs Trail – easy
• Lighthouse Country Regional Trail – easy to moderate
• Nile Creek Trails – easy to moderate
• … and many more

Requirements

Some of these are safe and popular locations however some or further afield and more rugged. Familiarize yourself with the route before heading out. Leaving an itinerary with relatives or friends is advisable. Being prepared for the weather and wildlife is a must. It’s advisable to run with a group.

Resources

To find trails and maps do check out sites such as:

AllTrails – https://www.alltrails.com/canada/british-columbia/parksville

Gaia GPS – https://www.gaiagps.com/

Trail Races

The Vancouver Island Trail Series – The series includes 6 trail running races from Royal Roads to Mt. Washington with short and long courses available. These are challenging yet fun events. Be prepared for amazing forest trails and spectacular views.

Find out more at the Vancouver Island Trail Series website.