Vancouver Island, Canada is a magical place. I had lived on Vancouver Island in Campbell River, BC for 5 years and had met my wife and proposed on Vancouver Island in 2016. One of my favorite places on Vancouver Island, Canada is Cathedral Grove, which is in the MacMillian Provincial Park. This park is located 16km east of Port Alberni. Every time that I travel to Tofino, BC or Coombs Old Country Market, I make a trip and walk through Cathedral Grove.
Cathedral Grove is known as one of the oldest growth forests in Canada. The largest trees are over 800 years old but most had sprouted when a fire opened the forest about 300 years. In the forests consists of large Douglas fir, Western hemlocks and Red cedar. These trees soared towards the sky and full of life. The indigenous peoples, First Nations of K’omoks, Tseshaht and Te’mexw had cared for this treasure for over 1000s of years. The trees have a great spiritual significance as Cedar trees and their multiple uses and healing and health properties, providing the First nations people also with transportation, shelter, tools and clothing. The trees would be harvested fully putting each part to good use.
I would recommend visiting Cathedral grove and hiking both sides of the highway. There are definitely many routes and paths to take. The fresh air makes it very peaceful and the forest shows that it is full of life both on sunny and rainy days. Things to note when visiting are that entry to Cathedral Grove is free and there is limited parking which is the two sides of Highway 4. There is talk of improving parking as it has been very congested and dangerous on the highway through that spot. Also there is are outhouses but no other facilities in the park.
There are maps for the trails and one could walk some of the shorter trails in 20 minutes. I could spend hours walking and enjoying the forest. The walk through the forest full of Douglas Firs and along the water. I stand in awe of the wonderful nature that God has created. I am thankful for these experiences. Until next time, Vancouver Island.
Dave's Travel Blog 