Newcastle Island Bates Trail

Due to the fact that you need to cross over to the island via ferry, the Newcastle Island Bates Trail is a fun, multi-faceted adventure that is sure to be loved by all. Upon departing the boat, make your way northeast along the trail and hike along the edge of the coast for some beautiful views overlooking the Strait of Georgia. Reaching a fork in the trail near Kanaka Bay, take the path to the left to begin the loop portion of the hike that cuts across the interior of the island. Along this stretch, you will pass by the serene waters of Mallard Lake before exploring the west coast of the island along Roga beach.

Continue heading north to visit a scenic viewpoint at Giovando Lookout, where you can gaze out across the coastal landscape before once again cutting across the interior island, this time along the northern shore of Mallard Lake. After working around the eastern portion of the island and arriving back at Kanaka Bay, follow the main trail south to return back to the ferry terminal where you began your hike. From here, you can continue to explore the natural beauty of Newcastle Island, or make the return boat trip back to Nanaimo.