TCRR

Where many of the other destinations on Vancouver Island center around urban areas, this ‘gateway’ region is so vast it actually stretches from one side of the island to the other. It’s time to discover what “As Wild as You Like” really means: Recreational activities for all tastes and abilities. Kick back on a sandy beach, or do a gut check at the top of a double-black diamond ski run at Mt. Washington Alpine Resort. It’s all here in Strathcona.

The majestic wilderness of British Columbia’s oldest (founded 1911) and largest Provincial Park can challenge the most extreme outdoor enthusiast, or delight a senior and grandchild as they take a nature walk together. The summer resorts and campgrounds near Oyster River provide an excellent base for family vacations. With miles of sand beach, golf courses, (par 3, 18 hole, and mini) friendly neighborhood pubs, a stock-car track, great restaurants, trail rides, petting zoos, marinas and excellent fishing all within a few miles, it’s a ‘pearl’ of a place for a relaxing holiday.

Follow the sweeping curves of Strathcona Parkway to Mt. Washington and Paradise Meadows on the eastern approach to the Strathcona Park wilderness. Enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders have turned the resort into one of the most popular winter sports destinations in B.C. Now summer visitors can ride the chairlift and access the mountain top. Mountainbikers too – it doesn’t get any better or easier than this. The resort also provides access to unlimited hiking in alpine meadows, trail rides, frisbee golf, bike rentals, restaurant and pub, gift shop, and overnight accommodation, including luxurious condo suites in Deer Lodge.

Special weekend activities go on all summer: concerts, wine festivals, bike races, art shows, and corporate retreats. The main entrance to Strathcona Park is on Hwy 28, just past Campbell River. Preserved and protected, 500,000 acres in size, this pristine wilderness contains extensive trail systems leading to glacial lakes, rivers, waterfalls, climbing bluffs, mountains, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife, all waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. Strathcona Park Lodge and Outdoor Recreation Centre, which is located on Campbell Lake near the entrance, provides a host of activities and instruction for all ages and levels of experience. Kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, plus guided expeditions are some of the courses available.