Trip report by BestHike editor Rick McCharles

The closest officially designated hiking trail to Parksville is Top Bridge Regional Trail from Rathtrevor Provincial Park.

I’ve hiked it at least 100 times — though it’s been rerouted in recent years.

Only 4km one way to an impressive pedestrian-cyclist suspension bridge from my favourite beach on Vancouver Island, Rathtrevor.

Normally I don’t start from Rarthrevor. I skip the road walking and begin at the “I” information sign. That’s the trailhead parking lot: 175 Allsbrook Rd, Parksville.

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NOTE ➙ There are plans to expand the municipal trail system by connecting Top Bridge and Coombs to Parksville Rail Trail.