Local Hikes: Notch Hill Park

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 Fall semester. We have selected 4 hikes that are based out of Nanaimo and 1 final hike that takes you to Elk Falls Provincial Park, located 2 hours north of VIU. This program runs from early March until late April on select Fridays from 1:30PM - 4PM. The cost to join is only $2.00, with the exception of our Elk Falls Provincial Park Adventure - costing $10.00 due to the extended duration of the hike (overall time). Please sign up in advance. 

Notch Hill Park

Although the Notch Hill Loop is short and steep, you will be hard-pressed to find better views of the Nanoose harbour and the rolling hills that make up the landscape surrounding Nanaimo to the south. Setting out from the trailhead, follow the path to the south as it immediately enters into the thick cover of the forest before turning west to begin the steep climb up to the summit of the hill. Although you might be a bit short of breath, take some time to appreciate the beauty of this unique forest that is packed full of Beautiful Gary oak and Arbutus. When you arrive at the summit lookout, you will be greeted with some amazing views that stretch out to the south across the blue waters of Nanoose Harbour to the city of Nanaimo. After taking in the views, work your way around the remainder of the loop to reunite with the main trail that will take you back down to the parking lot below

What to wear:

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

What to bring:

• Face mask (you will be required to wear it while traveling in the bus)
• Proof of COVID-19 Immunization vaccines (Digital QR code or paper verification are acceptable)
• Snacks 
• Water bottle 
• Umbrella or raincoat (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 in at the Front Reception Desk on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am – 1pm in Building 255 - Second Floor.

You will need to have your:

1. Student card
2. Proof of Covid-19 Immunization vaccines (Digital QR code or paper verification are acceptable)
3. Proof of medical insurance (BC Care Card or Guard.me Insurance Policy)
4. 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 2737