The “Pub to Pub” trail is a must do in the fall

 By Keith and Heather Nicol 

   On October 14 we decided that it was time to do one of our favourite hikes - the so called “Pub to Pub” trail which starts along the Oyster River, roughly half way between Courtenay and Campbell River on Vancouver IslandWe love this trail since it is a scenic trail with both forest/river and ocean/beach views. And this time of year the fall colours make the part along the river especially scenic. Since the trail is just 3.5 km (1 way) it is suited to a variety of options. If you have young children or walkers that would find 7 km too long a hike, you could park a car at each end and just make the 1 way trip. 

 

To get there from Courtenay drive north on Highway 19A and keep an eye out for the Oyster River bridge since you want to turn right on the next road (Glenmore Road).  Then travel one roughly 1 block and then turn left on Regent and look for a parking lot with a sign Oyster River Nature Park. The parking lot coordinates are 49. 52.232 N and 125 07.616 W. Then follow the Ferguson Trail which is well signed and easy to walk on. After about 1 km you reach the ocean and from there you follow the Jack Hames Trail to Salmon Point.

The trail winds along the upper part of the beach and through the trees giving fine views of Georgia Strait and mountains beyond. On this day we were joined by our xc ski friends Steve and Marj and saw many others enjoying the trails. It is especially popular with dog walkers. There is also tons of driftwood which offers good seating as well and we found a nice spot along the shore to have a snack.  We fully recommend this trail since it offers scenic ocean views and can be walked by a wide variety of people. Check it out on your next trip to this area.