Duncan, B.C., is technically a small city in the heart of Cowichan Valley, but it feels like a small town with all of its historic storefronts, galleries, and bistros, some of which date back to the Victorian era. Considered one of the most charming places in Canada, Duncan has a little something for everyone.

City of Totems

Located on the traditional lands of the Cowichan First Nation, the community was first known as the townsite of Alderlea, and later “Duncan’s Crossing.” Prior to its settlement, the Cowichan people lived in Duncan and its surrounding areas for millennia.

Today, Duncan serves as the urban centre of the Valley, with more to do and see per square foot than any other city, according to its website. It’s also home to the largest collection of outdoor totems in the world, making it a significant destination for preserved Indigenous history and heritage as the “City of Totems.”

“Downtown Duncan features over 40 beautifully carved totems by Indigenous artists from across Vancouver Island, Canada and as far away as New Zealand,” reads Duncan’s website.

Visitors can explore the story behind each totem on a self-guided journey, with maps available for pick-up at the Cowichan Valley Museum.

Fall hiking

Mountain lovers can check out plenty of hiking opportunities at Mount Tzouhalem, Mount Prevost, and Maple Mountain, as well as a variety of other beginner to expert-level trails.

There’s the 20 km Cowichan River Footpath that winds from Duncan to Skutz Falls, and the iconic Trans Canada Trail, which crosses over the breathtaking Kinsol Trestle to Coqichan Lake, North Cowichan, and Ladysmith, to name just a couple of options.

On the eastern edges of the district is the famed Carmanah Walbran Park, which is home to the largest spruce trees in the world!

The longest-running farmers market in B.C.

Prefer to hit up a farmers market now that warmer months are here? The Duncan Farmers Market is the longest-running farmers market in B.C., taking place every Saturday year-round. Visitors can peruse over 100 vendors at the market square on Craig Street and down Ingram Street

The market features an array of produce, in-season fruit, honey, eggs, cheese, meat, seafood, fresh flowers, wines, and spirits, as well as specialty items and quirky artisan creations galore.

A night market that launched in Duncan last summer is returning on the third Thursday of each month from June to November, transforming 200 Craig St. into a lively hub of 40+ local vendors, live music, and fun for all ages.

Note that the 2025 night market came to an early end, so stay tuned for 2026 dates to come.

Finally, don’t forget to roam Duncan’s historic downtown during your visit, which is home to over 300 businesses ranging from art galleries and cafes to clothing boutiques and chocolatiers.

Duncan is about halfway between Victoria and Nanaimo, so a ferry to either spot would do the trick if you’re travelling from Vancouver.

Duncan

How to get there: Take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo and drive 40 minutes to Duncan via the Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 S.

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Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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