Things to Do
From alpine peaks to ocean shores, your adventure starts here
Endless Adventures Await
Experience our coastal temperate rainforest on a mountain bike, hike through alpine vistas in Strathcona Park, or dip your paddle in a glacier-fed lake. The Comox Valley offers year-round adventures for every explorer.
Mount Washington Alpine Resort
North America’s deepest snow base awaits you just 30 minutes from Courtenay. With 81 runs, terrain parks, and over 11 meters of annual snowfall, Mount Washington delivers world-class skiing and snowboarding from December through April.
In summer, the mountain transforms into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and thrill-seekers. Explore scenic trails, tackle the bike park, or soar through the trees on zipline adventures.
Comox Lake Adventures
Crystal-clear glacier-fed waters reflect towering mountain peaks in this pristine alpine playground. Comox Lake is the valley’s crown jewel for water recreation, surrounded by untouched wilderness and accessed by scenic forest roads.
Paddleboard across mirror-smooth morning water. Cast a line for rainbow trout. Set up camp at lakeside sites. In summer, brave swimmers dive into the refreshing glacial water while eagles soar overhead.
Strathcona Hiking Trails
Paradise Meadows Loop: A family-friendly trail through subalpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in summer. Ancient mountain hemlocks frame glacier-carved valleys. Perfect for beginners seeking alpine beauty without technical climbing.
Circlet Lake: Crystal-clear alpine lake nestled beneath towering peaks. The moderate trail rewards hikers with turquoise waters reflecting snow-capped summits. Watch for marmots sunbathing on granite boulders.
Mt. Albert Edward: For experienced hikers, this challenging summit delivers 360-degree views of Vancouver Island’s wild interior. Stand atop one of Strathcona’s signature peaks where eagles soar and glaciers glisten.
Salish Sea Kayaking
Paddle the sheltered waters where the Salish Sea meets mountain wilderness. Comox Harbour and the Puntledge River estuary offer calm conditions perfect for beginners, while experienced kayakers can explore rocky coastlines and hidden coves.
Watch harbor seals pop up beside your kayak. Bald eagles perch on driftwood logs. On lucky days, orcas cruise through the strait, their dorsal fins cutting through glassy water. Guided tours and rentals make it easy to get on the water.
Arts & Heritage
Discover the valley’s creative soul in historic downtown cores. Art galleries showcase Coast Salish artists and contemporary local talent. Museums preserve K’ómoks First Nation heritage, coal mining history, and the famous Elasmosaur fossil found in the Puntledge River.
Stroll across Courtenay’s iconic suspension bridge. Browse independent bookshops and artisan boutiques. Catch live music at intimate venues. The valley’s cultural scene thrives year-round with festivals celebrating everything from fine art to aviation.
Beaches & Viewpoints
Discover secluded stretches of Pacific coastline where driftwood logs frame mountain views and tide pools teem with marine life. Goose Spit, Kye Bay, and Seal Bay offer sandy shores perfect for beachcombing, sunset watching, and winter storm viewing.
Climb to panoramic viewpoints where glaciers meet ocean. Watch the sunset paint the Beaufort Range gold. Scan the horizon for migrating gray whales in spring. These coastal gems showcase Vancouver Island at its most breathtaking.
This page highlights the types of activities and experiences available in the Comox Valley. Explore Comox Valley is a student project for NIC DGL-211. Featured descriptions showcase regional diversity and do not constitute paid promotion or comprehensive coverage of all local businesses. For a complete directory of activities, tours, and attractions, please contact the Comox Valley Visitor Centre.
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