Categories: Lifestyle

This small town on Vancouver Island has a park with a suspension bridge & hidden petroglyphs

Photo via Roxana Gonzalez / Shutterstock

Ready to explore another stunning suspension bridge in BC? Top Bridge Park in the small (but growing) town of Parksville on Vancouver Island is definitely worth adding to your travel list.

In the warmer months, it’s a popular swimming hole amongst residents and visitors alike, who enjoy cooling off in the waters of the Englishman River.

In the cooler months, you can explore the river’s rocky surroundings, which tell the story of three distinct First Nations whose traditional land the park and town occupy. If you keep a sharp eye, you’ll be able to spot hidden petroglyphs (rock carvings) near the river. These were ‘discovered’ by a local fisherman in 1940, according to the City of Parksville.

Visitors can enjoy the view from a pedestrian-only suspended bridge, which links to a 5 km-long walking trail. And across the river, it links to the Regional District of Nanaimo trail system as well!

And if you’re looking for a more extreme adventure, you’ll find a specialized mountain biking trail system at the park.

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Photo via Shutterstock

As for the town of Parksville itself, the growing town is conveniently located near transportation linkages 37 km north of Nanaimo, according to the city’s website. The town is also adjacent to Qualicum Beach, which is known for its stunning beaches and Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.

So there you have it, BC. Enjoy your next natural adventure in Parksville!