Why is Cathedral Grove closed?
The park containing Cathedral Grove was shut down since the beginning of the pandemic due to an inability to ensure people were safely socially distanced on a narrow trail system, according to the province.
Where do you park at Cathedral Grove?
MacMillan Provincial Park
Getting to The Park & Parking Cathedral Grove – MacMillan Provincial Park is located at the western end of Cameron Lake, only minutes from Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Highway 4, just beyond Coombs. Parking is free, but space may become limited during peak visitation in the summer and on weekends.
Where do you stop on the way to Tofino?
Enjoy the Journey to Tofino: 5 Stops Along the Way
- Coombs Old Country Market. Yes, those are goats on the roof.
- Cathedral Grove – MacMillan Provincial Park. A beautiful network of trails around an old-growth forest including 800+ year old trees.
- Sproat Lake.
- Wally Creek – Kennedy River Love Locks.
- West Coast Wild Zip-line.
Where is the cathedral forest?
Cathedral Grove is a rare and endangered remnant of an ancient Douglas fir ecosystem on Vancouver Island in British Columbia (BC), Canada. The biggest trees in the Grove are about 800 years old and measure 75 m (250 ft) in height and 9 m (29 ft) in circumference.
Is Cathedral Grove free?
It is an easy and convenient way to see the incredible old growth temperate rainforest that once was common on Vancouver Island. Essential things to know about visiting Cathedral Grove: Free entry.
Is Cathedral Grove open August 2020?
Currently closed due to COVID.
How long does it take to walk through Cathedral Grove?
around 30-45 minutes
I would estimate the average visit time to Cathedral Grove to be around 30-45 minutes, but I would recommend staying longer. If you choose to walk all of the trails and take time to absorb the surroundings, take photos and read each interpretive sign, an hour and a half is very possible.
Can you drive through Cathedral Grove?
Take some time to pull off the highway and take in the beauty of this park. The trees are awe-inspiring given their age, girth and height. The path meanders through the forest and wraps around the two largest trees (800 years old) giving visitors great photo opportunities and perspective.
Is it better to stay in Tofino or Ucluelet?
While Ucluelet also has higher rates in the summer, they’re still usually cheaper than if you were staying in Tofino. Not to mention, Ucluelet has a number of stunning hotels, resorts and beautiful vacation rentals with ocean views as well. You’ll definitely get more luxe for your buck.
Where should I stop between Nanaimo and Tofino?
Nanaimo to Tofino Road Trip: Beautiful Places to Stop Along the Way
- Little Qualicum Falls. This gorgeous destination on Vancouver Island includes a couple of impressive waterfalls cascading down a rocky gorge.
- Cameron Lake.
- Cathedral Grove.
- Hole in The Wall.
- Wild Pacific Trail.
- The Rainforest Hiking Trail.
- Tofino.
Why is it called Cathedral Grove?
The name “Cathedral Grove” is reputed to have originated from the Governor General of Canada, the Viscount Willingdon, in 1928, and appeared in correspondence to the provincial government in the 1920s. Cathedral Grove was a well-known tourist stop in the 1920s and 1930s, long before its protection.
Where is the Cathedral Grove on Vancouver Island?
Cathedral Grove is a wilderness area in the MacMillan Provincial Park in central Vancouver Island. It is a magnificent old growth forest that is part of the Costal Douglas Fir Biogeoclimatic Zone. It is a very impressive example of a west coast rain forest that fortunately has been preserved for future generations to explore and enjoy.
Where is the Cathedral Grove in Port Alberni?
Cathedral Grove is part of MacMillan Provincial Park. MacMillan park covers both sides of Highway 4 for at least 4km. Cathedral Grove sits approximately in the middle of these 4km, so entering the park anywhere else is also restricted. Looking at the trees from the Highway is ok.
When did Cathedral Grove become a protected park?
This stand of towering trees was a tourist spot as early as the 1920’s before it became a protected park. In 1944 after much petitioning and public involvement, the park was given to the province for the public’s enjoyment. In 1996 the park was hit hard by a storm and many of the large trees fell to the forest floor.
Is the Cathedral Grove a good place to walk?
Cathedral Grove was super interesting, and an excellent place to take the dog for a walk. There is a well maintained system of trails as well as some bathrooms. The trees are gorgeous, and the fall colours make for a magical evening walk. If you are driving to Tofino from the ferry then this is well worth the stop.
