The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park
5.0
(13)
145
hikers
14
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park traverse a diverse landscape of regenerated second-growth forests, deep ravines, and wetlands. The park spans 642 hectares, featuring towering Douglas fir and big-leaf maple trees. Hikers can explore nearly one kilometer of rocky ocean beachfront along the Strait of Georgia, offering expansive views. The terrain includes gentle paths suitable for families, with some trails following old logging grades.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park
- The…
Last updated: October 9, 2026
5.0
(2)
37
hikers
9.80km
02:34
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6.11km
01:36
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
18
hikers
3.69km
01:01
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
6.55km
01:44
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.76km
00:45
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This easy packed dirt path takes you through a spacious woodland of matchstick fir trees. The uniform size of the firs is strong visual evidence that the area was logged in the recent past.
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The trail is an easy packed dirt and pine needle path wide enough to walk two abreast. All the trails in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park are very well maintained, and the signage is very clear at every junction.
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New trail signs have been installed that use the Coast Salish language of the K’ómoks First Nation, called aýaĵuθəm. In aýaĵuθəm, the forest loop is called ʔayigən, pronounced "eye-eee-gin".
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Extended Horse Bike Trail is one of the multi-use routes through the west side of Seal Bay Regional Nature Park, where wider paths and gentler terrain make it suitable for walking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Unlike the steeper beach access trails on the east side of Bates Road, this route stays mostly level as it winds through open forest and connects with other horse and bike trails in the park.
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Catch Up Loop is a short connector trail that curves through gently rolling terrain, and can be an easy addition to longer walks through the park. It connects to several nearby trails, perfect for creating shorter or more flexible loop options. The trail sees lighter traffic than some of the others in this section of the park, making it a great choice for a quieter stretch away from the main beach-bound routes.
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Seal Bay Regional Nature Park is a large protected coastal forest north of Courtenay, with over 14 kilometres of trails that wind through second-growth woodland, wetlands, and shoreline along the Salish Sea. Known for its mix of quiet forest trails and beach access, the park includes stands of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and hemlock, with opportunities to spot birds, seals, and other wildlife along the coast. The park is an ideal place for walking, trail running, and enjoying spending time outdoors in a beautiful, peaceful setting.
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The Sandwick Forest is a thick swath of forest, and all 11.8 hectares are now protected. As you stroll through these woods, take in the beauty of the second-growth forest and the cloisters of the older forest. The forest has patches of wetlands, each teeming with life.
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Sandwick Park is a forested area with well-maintained, flat trails, a great place for kids to explore. There are fun amenities like a disc golf course, basketball nets, and a swing set.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park?
There are 5 family-friendly hiking trails in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park featured in this guide. These routes are specifically chosen for their manageable distances and gentle paths, making them perfect for families with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park?
The family-friendly trails in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park generally feature gentle paths through regenerated second-growth forests with towering Douglas firs and maples. You might encounter deep ravines, wetlands, and even nearly a kilometer of rocky ocean beachfront. Some trails follow old rail or logging grades, offering a glimpse into the park's history.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, Seal Bay Regional Nature Park offers several easy loop trails perfect for families. For example, the Seal Bay Nature Park loop is an easy 3.7 km route with minimal elevation gain, providing a pleasant walk through the park's diverse landscapes.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly trails?
Yes, Seal Bay Regional Nature Park is very dog-friendly! Many trails are suitable for dog walking, allowing your furry family members to join in the adventure. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What are some natural features or viewpoints we might see on these trails?
On your family hike, you can look forward to diverse natural features. The park boasts wetlands like Melda's Marsh, Horseshoe Swamp, and Cutgrass Swamp, as well as seasonal waterfalls in deep ravines. The Seal Bay Lookout offers panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia, and you might even spot harbor seals along the rocky ocean beachfront.
Are there any trails that lead to the beach?
Yes, some trails in Seal Bay Regional Nature Park lead down to the beach. The Don Apps Trail, for instance, guides hikers through fern-laden ravines directly to the oceanfront. The Seabank Trail also offers an easy walk along the beach itself, providing opportunities for ocean views and wildlife spotting.
What is the best time of year to visit Seal Bay Regional Nature Park with family?
Seal Bay Regional Nature Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and active wildlife, while summer offers warm weather perfect for exploring the beachfront. Fall showcases beautiful autumn colors, and even winter can be pleasant for a crisp walk, especially on the well-maintained trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.95 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's diverse landscapes, the well-maintained trails suitable for all ages, and the opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a perfect destination for a family outing.
Are there any shorter, very easy routes for families with young children?
Absolutely! For families with very young children or those looking for a shorter stroll, the Sandwick Park loop is an excellent choice. It's an easy 2.7 km route with minimal elevation, perfect for a gentle family walk.
Is there a trail that offers ocean views?
Yes, the park offers trails with stunning ocean views. The Eaglecrest Trail, for example, provides beautiful vistas of the Strait of Georgia and surrounding islands. You can also find ocean views along the nearly one kilometer of rocky beachfront accessible from various trails.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for spotting wildlife?
Seal Bay Regional Nature Park is a prime location for wildlife viewing. The diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and forests, attract a variety of animals. You might spot harbor seals, bald eagles, great blue herons, deer, owls, ducks, and squirrels. The wetlands are particularly good for birdwatching.
Are there any trails that are suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, for enhanced accessibility, Seal Bay Regional Nature Park features a 2 km wheelchair-accessible loop. This ensures that families with strollers or those requiring wheelchair access can also enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
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