The RDN is working with local trail enthusiasts to provide Trans-Canada Trail (TCT) links from Nanaimo's city limits to the TCT to the south. This project involves working with private landowners such as Island Timberlands LP and TimberWest Forest Company, the Provincial Crown and some smaller landowners to secure access over private land to run the trail through. Key sections of the TCT are now officially open within the RDN:
Extension Ridge Trail offers stunning views of the local islands and Strait of Georgia. Access is signposted from the hydro lines on Harewood Mines Road, Nanaimo. Distance: approximately 5 km one-way to the residential area of Extension. TCT North End Map
Pipeline Trail links the community of Extension with Nanaimo River Road, a distance of approximately 5 km. The starting point in Extension is beside the volunteer fire hall on Bramley Road. From the river end, look for the two large blue waterline vent pipes beside the road. It is also possible to access the Nanaimo River from this location. TCT North End Map
White Pine Trail offers a hike along a forested ridge before entering recently harvested forest land above Crystal Lake. The trail descends through logged areas on logging roads, skirts Timberlands Lake, and continues as the Haslam Trail. Road access is from the end of Spruston Road. Distance from Spruston Rd to Timberlands Lake is approximately 3 km one-way. TCT South End Map
Haslam Creek Suspension Bridge and Haslam Trail to White Pine Trail. Access the trailhead through the gravel pit at the end of Timberlands Road in Cassidy. Refer to inset of southern map. You can park near Rondayln Resort on Timberlands Road, or drive from the end of the road around the pit to where the trail begins (about 1.5 km past Rondayln Resort). Caution: this is an active industrial road with poor drainage and it may not be suitable for all vehicles. Use caution whether walking or driving this section. TCT South End Map
The trail begins by following a fence line between Crown land and private forest land, then emerges at the stunning Haslam Creek Suspension Bridge that was officially opened in May 2003. Once across the bridge follow the trail markers to Timberlands Lake where you can meet the White Pine Trail and continue on to the end of Spruston Road. Some of this trail is on active and deactivated logging roads. Walking time from the Haslam Creek Suspension Bridge to Spruston Road is approximately 2 ½ hours one way. The distance is approximately 8.5 km one way.
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