Local Hikes: Blueback Beach

Cultural Connections - Local Hikes 

Join Cultural Connections as we head outdoors and explore some of the most scenic and awe-inspiring, local hiking trails throughout the Summer semester. We have selected 10 of our favorite hikes that are based right out of Nanaimo for you check out! This program runs from May - June every Friday from 1:30PM - 4PM. The cost to join is only $2.00, with the exception of our Saysutshun Island adventure - costing $15.00 due to ferry expense and the extended duration of the hike (overall time). Please sign up in advance. 

Blueback Beach

Blueback Beach is one of Nanaimo’s best-hidden gems. Located in North Nanaimo, below roughly 200 stairs, the beach offers breathtaking views of the coastal mountains and sunset all at once. The shore itself is a mixture of small-to-medium sized rocks at first, but quickly transitions into a long sandbar, making it a great place for swimming, wading, and floating. Despite the stairs, the walk to the beach is actually quite short, only 300 meters.

The park is open all year-round, making a great place to beat the heat in the summer or a quiet hideaway in the winter. Regardless of the season, the stairs themselves are a popular place for those in search of a high-intensity workout. - Tourism Nanaimo

What to wear:

• Proper clothing for the weather and for walking
• Running shoes or hiking boots
• No sandals

What to bring:

• Snacks 
• Water bottle 
• Umbrella or rain coat (in case it rains)
• A backpack to carry all your items

Meeting Location: 

VIU Building 255 Main Lobby 

Trip Includes:

Transportation to and from the hike and a guided hike on one of Nanaimo's trails.

Policies, Health & Safety

We have an ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and quality of our trips, with trained and responsible student leaders, staff and community partners. Before you sign-up, please check out our policies & procedures for more information about how to prepare for a trip, as well as our cancellation policy.

How to Sign Up

Our activities are available to all current VIU Students. Sign up with us in person, next to the Front Reception Desk in the "Glassroom" on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12pm – 1:30pm in Building 255 - Second Floor.

You will need to have your:

1. Student card,
2. Proof of medical insurance (BC Care Card or Guard.me Insurance Policy)
3. Payment (cash is currently the only method of payment for activities)

Waiver Form

Please read our general waiver form for VIU group activities in the attachment section below. All participants are required to read and sign the waiver before the start of the trip. We will provide a paper copy for you to read through again and sign the morning of the trip.

Contact

Kelsey Moon – Activity Program Coordinator
Kelsey.moon@viu.ca
250-753-3245 x 2228