Categories: Lifestyle

This park on Vancouver Island has 292 hectares of forest & a trail with panoramic views

Looking for a mountain trail to explore this fall or winter? The Mount Benson Loop at Mount Benson Regional Park is open year-round, and while the 8 km hike up is no walk in the park, the stunning panoramic views are well worth it.

Overlooking the communities making up the Nanaimo district as well as the Gulf Islands, the regional park in and of itself is a scenic destination any time of year.

The Mount Benson Loop climbs 740 metres, so be sure to prepare accordingly with proper footwear, warm layers, and lots of water if you’re planning on tackling the hike this season.

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The park is home to 292 hectares of forest, situated on the upper northeast slope of the mountain. While there, hikers will have a clear view of the Strait of Georgia, Witchcraft Lake, Westwood Lake, Millstone River, and Chase River.

The park’s website notes that visitors should allow three to five hours for a return trip, and prepare for changeable weather.

So if you’re up for a more challenging adventure, you know where to look!

Happy exploring, BC.

Mount Benson Regional Park

Where: Nanaimo, BC

Information on Mount Benson Regional Park is from the Regional District of Nanaimo and is accurate as of publication date.

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