Coombs

Coombs is located on Highway 4, 9 km (5.5 miles) west of Parksville. This area of natural beauty starts with Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. A hikers' dream with winding trails and bridges perched high above the rushing water. The water roars wildly through the channel in the winter, but calms down in time for summertime swimming. Mount Arrowsmith Trail starts off at Cameron Lake picnic site and winds its way up to the 6000 foot summit. The trail takes between 6 to 7 hours round trip and is strenuous but not difficult for even the novice hiker. Just beyond Cameron Lake is MacMillan Park Cathedral Grove. Massive centuries-old Douglas Fir, an incredible example of the northern rain forest. This park is interlaced with trails that everyone in the family can enjoy. Interpretive signs enhance this wonder so be sure to bring your camera.

Look for petroglyphs depicting a bear and two whales along Englishman River or drive to Rhododendron Lake, south of Parksville on Highway 19 and along a forestry road to an ecological reserve of wild rhododendrons which date from before the last Ice Age. A nature trail cutting through Hamilton Marsh is very popular with birdwatchers. An abundance of waterfowl, aquatic plants with frogs, salamanders and newts here and there as well. In the early morning or evening beavers can be seen going about their business.

Englishman River Falls, located near Errington, is noted for the beauty of its falls reached by easy walking trails. The lower falls end in a deep crystal clear pool which is an ideal freshwater swimming hole and a great place to view spawning salmon in the fall.

The North Island Wildlife Recovery Association is located in the little community of Errington. Its mandate is to care for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife, both birds and animals, with a view to releasing them back into the wild. The centre handles between 400 and 700 animals and birds annually with a high successful release rate. A public viewing area is open April through October everyday, 10 am to 4pm. Funds for housing, food, medical supplies and educational materials are provided through donations memberships, and adoptions.

The Coombs Old Country Market is well-known for the family of goats which nimbly graze on its grass roof. It's a great place to stop and enjoy an ice cream cone and browse through their selection of imported goods. Next to it, the Coombs Emporium offers a wide range of gift and craft shops. The village is dotted with several heritage buildings including a mini golf and small amusement park.

July is the time for "Old West" activities: a fiddle jamboree, bluegrass festival and rodeo located on the Coombs Rodeo Grounds, just one minute west of the village. Also held on the rodeo grounds, in mid-July, is the annual Coombs Country Arts & Crafts Fair featuring arts, crafts, concessions, and entertainment.

Great photo opportunities at Butterfly World also found in Coombs. Stroll among butterflies from five continents. Fish and turtle ponds, song birds, chinese quail, outdoor water gardens and a walk-through bird aviary. Open from March through October.