Winter on Vancouver Island looks a little different than it does across most of Canada. Thanks to famously mild weather, snow rarely sticks around for long in Parksville, and rainy days are often more of a mist than a downpour. That makes it easy to get outside all season, whether you’re walking local beaches or hitting trails in the nearby forest.
The Beach Club Resort is right on the waterfront, giving you easy access to the ocean, parks, and many other fun things to do in Parksville, but when you’re ready for a change of pace, there are plenty of winter adventures just a short drive away.
Here are some of the best day trip ideas for winter activities just beyond Parksville.
Mount Washington
100 km from Parksville; 1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 mins
If you’re looking for a true wonderland-esque adventure, Mount Washington is just over an hour from Parksville. The alpine resort is a popular choice for families and anyone eager to spend a full day in the mountains. Pick up gear rentals and grab a trail map from Raven Lodge, then head out on 22 kilometres of snowshoeing routes with sweeping views of Strathcona Provincial Park. The resort also offers a number of other snow play activities, including Nordic skiing (with lessons for newbies), fat biking, tubing, and a dedicated tobogganing hill—great options if you want some variety beyond traditional downhill skiing. Because of its proximity, Mount Washington is one of the easiest ways to mix snowy adventure in with your other winter activities in Parksville.
Nanaimo
37 km from Parksville; 40 minutes
A short, scenic drive south, Nanaimo is an ideal choice if you’re looking for indoor activities or fun activities that will satisfy a wide age range. Start by lacing up for an afternoon of ice skating at one of the city's arenas. The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre is another indoor favourite, with a wave pool, lazy river, and multiple water slides to keep kids (and yes, kids at heart) entertained.
History fans will enjoy the Nanaimo Museum, where exhibits cover everything from Snuneymuxw First Nation culture to the city’s coal-mining past. For a quick outdoor break, stroll along the Harbourfront Walkway, which follows the edge of the downtown waterfront with great views of Newcastle Island. While you're in town, make stops along the Nanaimo Bar Trail, celebrating the city's signature sweet, a triple-layer chocolate and custard confection.
Cathedral Grove
31 km from Parksville; 26 minutes
One of Vancouver Island’s most famous natural landmarks resides in MacMillan Provincial Park, and it’s close enough to town that it's really more like a half-day trip. Massive Douglas fir and red cedar trees tower overhead, some more than 800 years old.
In cold weather, the grove takes on a completely different atmosphere: morning fog often lingers in the trees, softening the light and making the forest feel even more dramatic, which is why it's one of the more popular things to do in Parksville in winter. The park's trails are short and flat, making them accessible for most visitors, and they all interconnect, so you can hit them all. Start on Old Growth Trail, closer to Cameron Lake, then hop over to the Big Tree and Living Forest trails.
Comox Valley
75 km from Parksville; 45 minutes
Heading north from Parksville, the Comox Valley offers a nice balance of outdoor scenery and small-town charm. In Comox itself, start with a walk along the wharf for views of the harbour and mountains beyond.
For lunch, locals recommend fresh seafood at Blackfin Pub. Just around the corner, Filberg Lodge is a worthwhile stop. The historic home is set on beautiful grounds overlooking the water and even in winter, it’s a peaceful place to wander. If you’re in the mood for a more immersive nature walk, Mack Laing Nature Park is only a few minutes away. A short but scenic loop takes you through forest, along a creek, and down to the beach.
Ucluelet
150 km from Parksville; 2 hours, 15 minutes
If you’re willing to spend a bit more time on the road, Ucluelet on Vancouver Island's west coast makes for a truly rewarding winter day trip. It has much of the same rugged coastline that uber-famous Tofino is known for but tends to be much quieter. Plus, it's almost 45 minutes closer to Parksville. On the way, you can stop in Port Alberni for coffee or a bite to eat, and plan to stretch your legs at Cathedral Grove either coming or going—you'll literally pass right by it.
Once in Ucluelet, walk the Lighthouse Loop section of the Wild Pacific Trail. It’s an easy 2.6-kilometre loop with incredible ocean views, especially dramatic on stormy days. In fact, you'll likely spot some storm watchers observing nature's thrilling display. Afterward, grab lunch in town and spend a little time on the beach before heading back. With far fewer crowds in winter than summer, it feels like you have the coastline to yourself.
